US20180171535A1

US20180171535A1 - Height adjustable clothesline assembly

Info

Publication number: US20180171535A1
Application number: US15/737,102
Authority: US
Inventors: John Flint Packer; Kevin Wayne Lake
Original assignee: Rope and Plastics Sales Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Rope and Plastics Sales Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2015-06-18
Filing date: 2016-06-10
Publication date: 2018-06-21
Also published as: CA2988411A1; EP3310958A1; AU2016278351B2; AU2016278351A1; WO2016201494A1; CN106471179A; EP3310958A4

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a height adjustable clothesline assembly and to components thereof. Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly comprising a frame for hanging clothes, at least two legs supporting the frame, the at least two legs comprising a strut comprising an upper section and a lower section which are laterally displaced, the lower section comprising a first slide fixedly connected to the lower section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the upper section through the sleeve, and the upper section comprising a second slide fixedly connected to the upper section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the lower section through the sleeve, and wherein movement of the upper section through the first slide and/or movement of the lower section though the second slide allows adjustment of the height of the frame of the portable clothesline assembly.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims priority to Australian provisional patent application number 2015902336 filed on 18 Jun. 2015, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a height adjustable clothesline assembly and to components thereof.

BACKGROUND

A variety of types of devices are available for drying and/or airing clothes and other household articles. For example, fixed clotheslines typically are of a form where the device is rigidly connected to the ground or a wall, while portable clothes lines permit the placement of the device in a desired area and typically use legs to support the device.
Convenience and ease of use are each important considerations for the commercial success of such products.
For most portable clotheslines it is not possible to adjust the height. Typically, the clotheslines have legs of a fixed length, and therefore the height of the clothesline cannot be adapted to a height suitable for each individual, which is often an important consideration for older individuals in particular.
In addition, it is generally desirable for most types of clothesline to adopt a configuration to reduce the space taken up by the device when it is not needed. For example, it is general desirable for wall mounted clotheslines to be able to be folded against the wall. However, these considerations introduce difficulties into the design of the product so as to be able to accommodate the folding of the components. In the case of portable clotheslines, it is often desirable that they can be collapsed for storage. However, this introduces difficulties as to how product can be accommodated and/or held in a folded configuration for storage.
Further, some portable clotheslines have legs that rotate about the frame to assist with folding the legs into a collapsed configuration. However, the use of legs that can rotate from a standing position to a folded configuration also introduces other design difficulties, such as issues relating to the rigidness and/or strength of the product, particularly given that clotheslines may often need to support heavy items, such as wet clothes or bedding.
Accordingly, there is a need for products that address one or more problems in the art and/or provide one or more advantages.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to a height adjustable clotheslines and components thereof.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly, the clothesline assembly comprising:

- a frame for hanging clothes;
- at least two legs supporting the frame, the at least two legs comprising a strut comprising an upper section and a lower section which are laterally displaced, the lower section comprising a first slide fixedly connected to the lower section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the upper section through the sleeve, and the upper section comprising a second slide fixedly connected to the upper section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the lower section through the sleeve,
- wherein movement of the upper section through the first slide and/or movement of the lower section though the second slide allows adjustment of the height of the frame of the portable clothesline assembly.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for drying clothes, the method comprising using a clothesline assembly as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a leg for adjusting the height of an object attached thereto, the leg comprising a strut comprising an upper section and a lower section which are laterally displaced, the lower section comprising a first slide fixedly connected to the lower section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the upper section through the sleeve, and the upper section comprising a second slide fixedly connected to the upper section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the lower section through the sleeve, wherein vertical movement of the upper section through the first slide and/or vertical movement of the lower section though the second slide allows adjustment of the height of the leg.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clothesline assembly comprising one or more height adjustable legs as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide one or more components as described herein.
Other embodiments are disclosed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Certain embodiments are illustrated by the following figures. It is to be understood that the following description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting with respect to the description.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a side view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows an end view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly according to one embodiment, in which the legs have been adjusted for a maximum height.

FIG. 4 shows a top view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows an elevated perspective view of a height adjustable portable clothesline according to one embodiment, in which the clothesline is in the folded or collapsed configuration.

FIG. 6 shows a side view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly according to one embodiment, in which the clothesline is in the folded or collapsed configuration.

FIG. 7 shows a rear perspective view of the leg of a clotheslines assembly, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a leg of a clothesline assembly according to one embodiment, when the leg is adjusted for a minimum height.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the internal components of the locking mechanism according to one embodiment, in which the mechanism is in the locked position.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the base of the leg of a clothesline assembly according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11 shows an internal side view of a bracing member of a clothesline assembly when the clothesline is locked in a standing position (FIG. 11A) or in an unlocked position (FIG. 11B).

FIG. 12 shows an internal side view of the bracing member of a clothesline assembly as the leg rotates about a hinge (FIG. 12A) to the folded or collapsed position (FIG. 12B), according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to a height adjustable clothesline assembly and to components thereof.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly, the clothesline assembly comprising:

In certain embodiments, the first slide is fixedly connected at an end region of the lower section and/or the second slide is fixedly connected at an end region of the upper section. In certain embodiments, the first slide is fixedly connected at the end of the lower section and/or the second slide is fixedly connected at the end of the upper section.
In certain embodiments, the assembly comprises at least two legs. In certain embodiments, the assembly comprises two legs.
In certain embodiments, the at least two legs comprise a single strut for one or both of the at least two legs. In certain embodiments, the at least two legs comprise a pair of struts for one or both of the at least two legs. In certain embodiments, a leg comprises a pair of struts. In certain embodiments, each leg comprises a pair of struts.
In certain embodiments, a leg comprises a pair of struts and the struts on the leg are rigidly connected together. In certain embodiments, the struts are rigidly connected by way of rigid connection of the first slides and/or the second slides.
In certain embodiments, a leg comprises a pair of struts and the first slide of one strut is rigidly connected to the first slide on the other strut and/or the second slide of one strut is rigidly connected to the second slide of the other strut.
In certain embodiments, the height of the clothesline may be fixed or locked at a desired height. In certain embodiments, the height of the frame may be fixed or locked at a desired height.
In certain embodiments, the first slide comprises a means for locking the height of the strut. In certain embodiments, the second slide comprises a means for locking the height of the strut.
In certain embodiments, the first slide comprises a means for locking the height of the strut. In certain embodiments, the first slide comprises one or more movable locking pins that engage with the upper section of the strut to lock the height of the strut. In certain embodiments, the strut comprises one or more apertures to receive the one or more locking pins. In certain embodiments, the upper section of the strut comprises one or more apertures to receive the one or more locking pins.
In certain embodiments, the second slide comprises a means for locking the height of the strut. In certain embodiments, the second slide comprises one or more movable locking pins that engage with the lower section of the strut to lock the height of the strut. In certain embodiments, the strut comprises one or more apertures to receive the one or more locking pins. In certain embodiments, the lower section of the strut comprises one or more apertures to receive the one or more locking pins.
In certain embodiments, the one or more locking pins are springably urged into the one or more apertures.
In certain embodiments, withdrawal of the one or more locking pins and vertical movement of the upper and/or lower sections permits adjustment of the height of the frame.
In certain embodiments, withdrawal of the one or more locking pins from the upper section of the strut and vertical movement of the upper and/or lower sections permits adjustment of the length of a leg.
In certain embodiments, movement of the one or more locking pins is connected to a rotatable movement of a crank to engage or disengage the one or more locking pins.
In certain embodiments, movement of the one or more locking pins is connected to a rotatable movement of a crank to engage or disengage the one or more locking pins with the upper section of a strut.
In certain embodiments, the legs are hingedly connected to the frame so that the legs can pivot between a folded position and a standing position.
In certain embodiments, the frame comprises a central member and a cross member located at or toward either end of the central member. In certain embodiments, one or more cross members support one or more lines for hanging clothes and/or other articles.
In certain embodiments, the frame comprises a central member and a cross member located at or toward each end of the central member, the cross members supporting one or more lines for hanging clothes and/or other articles.
In certain embodiments, the assembly comprises at least two cross members. In certain embodiments, the assembly comprises two cross members.
In certain embodiments, the at least two legs comprise a bracing member between the legs and the central member.
In certain embodiments, the at least two legs comprise a bracing member between the legs and the central member, wherein the bracing member is pivotally connected to a leg.
In certain embodiments, the at least two legs comprise a bracing member between the legs and the central member, wherein the bracing member is pivotally connected to the central member.
In certain embodiments, the assembly comprises a locking means for locking the bracing member when the legs are in the standing position.
In certain embodiments, the bracing member is locked when the clothesline is in the standing position.
In certain embodiments, unlocking of the bracing member comprises manual operation of the bracing member so as to unlock the bracing member.
In certain embodiments, the bracing member comprises a slot which permits a protrusion on the central member to engage with the slot and move along the slot as the bracing member moves when the legs move between the folded position and the standing position.
In certain embodiments, the slot comprises a notch which prevents the protrusion moving along the slot as the bracing member moves, thereby locking the bracing member.
In certain embodiments, unlocking of the bracing member comprises manual operation so as to move the protrusion from the notch into the slot. In certain embodiments, unlocking of the bracing member comprises manual operation of the bracing member so as to move the protrusion from the notch into the slot.
In certain embodiments, the assembly comprises a means for releasably locking the legs in the folded position. In certain embodiments, one or more of the legs comprise a means for releasably locking the legs in the folded position.
In certain embodiments, when the assembly is in the folded position one leg is positioned against the central member and the other leg is positioned against the leg folded against the central member.
In certain embodiments, the other leg is offset so as to allow the other leg to sit flush against the leg folded against the central member.
In certain embodiments, one leg comprises a means for releasably locking the leg to the central member and the other leg comprises a means for releasably locking the other leg to the leg locked to the central member.
In certain embodiments, the means for releasably locking the leg to the central member comprise one or more resilient fingers for releasable engagement with the central member.
In certain embodiments the means for releasable locking to the other leg comprises one or more resilient fingers for releasable engagement to the other leg.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for drying clothes, the method comprising using an assembly as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for drying clothes, the method comprising using a height adjustable portable clotheslines assembly as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a component of a clothesline assembly, or a clothesline assembly comprising the component, as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure comprise a leg for adjusting the height of an object attached thereto and/or supported thereby.
In certain embodiments, the leg is used to adjust the height of a clothesline. In certain embodiments, the leg is used to adjust the height of a portable clothesline. In certain embodiments, the leg is used to adjust the height of a clothesline mounted to a wall at one end. Other types of objects using a leg as described herein are contemplated, such as a table, or a table with foldable legs (eg a foldable card table).
In certain embodiments, the leg comprises a strut comprising an upper section and a lower section which are laterally displaced, the lower section comprising a first slide fixedly connected to the lower section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the upper section through the sleeve and the upper section comprising a second slide fixedly connected to the upper section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the lower section through the sleeve, wherein vertical movement of the upper section through the first slide and/or vertical movement of the lower section though the second slide allows adjustment of the height of the leg.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a leg for adjusting the height of an object attached thereto, the leg comprising a strut comprising an upper section and a lower section which are laterally displaced, the lower section comprising a first slide fixedly connected to the lower section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the upper section through the sleeve and the upper section comprising a second slide fixedly connected to the upper section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the lower section through the sleeve, wherein vertical movement of the upper section through the first slide and/or vertical movement of the lower section though the second slide allows adjustment of the height of the leg.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an object comprising one or more legs as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a portable clothesline assembly comprising at least two legs as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a height adjustable clotheslines assembly comprising one or more legs as described herein.
For example, the height adjustable clothesline assembly may be an assembly mounted to a wall (or other rigid structure) at one end of the frame and having a single leg as described herein supporting the other end of the frame.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clothesline assembly comprising a bracing member as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clothesline assembly with one or more foldable legs and one or more bracing members. Bracing members are as described herein. For example, a portable clothesline assembly with two foldable legs may have a bracing member to brace each of the legs.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clothesline assembly, the clothesline assembly comprising:

- a frame for hanging clothes, the frame comprising a central member and a cross member located at or near an end of the central member, the cross member supporting one or more lines for hanging clothes;
- a leg pivotally connected to the frame to allow the leg to move from a folding position to a standing position; and
- a bracing member between the leg and the central member, wherein the bracing member is pivotally connected to the leg and the bracing member comprises a slot which permits a protrusion on the central member to engage with the brace and to move along the slot as the leg moves between a folded position and a standing position.

Clothesline assemblies, and components thereof, are as described herein. In certain embodiments, the clothesline assembly is a portable clothesline. Portable clotheslines, and the various components thereof, are as described herein.
In certain embodiments, the clothesline assembly is a clothesline assembly mounted to a wall (or other rigid structure) at one end of the frame and having a single leg or two legs supporting the other end of the frame.
Bracing members are as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clothesline assembly, the clothesline assembly comprising:

- a frame for hanging clothes, the frame comprising a central member and a cross member located at or near an end of the central member, the cross member supporting one or more lines for hanging clothes;
- at least two legs supporting the frame, the at least two legs pivotally connected to the frame so as to fold from a collapsed position to a standing position; and bracing members between the legs and the central member, wherein the bracing members are pivotally connected to the legs and the bracing members comprise a slot which permits a protrusion on the central member to engage with a brace member and to move along the slot as a leg moves between a folded position and a standing position.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clothesline assembly having a means for releasably locking a leg to a central member of the assembly. Means for releasable locking are as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clothesline assembly, the clothesline assembly comprising:

- a frame for hanging clothes, the frame comprising a central member and a cross member located at or near an end of the central member, the cross member supporting one or more lines for hanging clothes;
- a leg for supporting the frame, the leg being pivotally connected to the frame so that the leg may be folded against the central member when the clothesline is not in use; and
- a means for releasably locking the leg to the central member.

In certain embodiments, the clothesline assembly is a portable clothesline.
Means for releasable locking are as described herein.
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a portable clothesline assembly, the clothesline assembly comprising:

- a frame for hanging clothes, the frame comprising a central member and cross members located at or near ends of the central member, the cross members supporting one or more lines for hanging clothes;
- at least two legs supporting the frame, the at least two legs pivotally connected to the frame so as to fold from a collapsed position to a standing position; and a means for releasably locking one leg to the central member and a means for releasably locking the other leg to the leg releasably locked to the central member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a perspective view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly 110 for drying and/or airing clothes and other articles according to one embodiment.
In the embodiment shown, the clothesline assembly 110 comprises a frame 112 for supporting/hanging clothes and other articles. The frame 112 comprises a central member 114. In the embodiment shown, the central member 114 comprises two parallel members 116, which are typically hollow aluminium tubes. This particular configuration assists with the rigidity of the frame.
The central member 114 supports two cross members or arms 118, which are located at each end of the central member 114 and which are substantially parallel to each other. The cross members 118 are also typically made from a hollow aluminium tube of square cross section, although other materials and configurations are contemplated. The cross members support lines 120 and 122 which are used for supporting or hanging clothes and other articles, to allow drying and/or airing of the clothes and other articles. The lines are typically of a plastic, or are plastic coated.
In the embodiment shown, the clothesline 110 comprises two lines 120 and 122, one line for each side of the clothesline 110 and which are run between cross members 118, which support the lines. One end of the line 120 is retained in a ratchet tensioning component 124. The other line 122 is similarly retained in a ratchet tensioning component 126 at the other end of the clothesline 110. The use of ratchet tensioning component allows the tension on the line to be adjusted, which in particular provides the ability to tighten the line when any slackness in the line becomes evident with use or over time. Further, the use of tensioning components 124 and 126 for each line assists with independently adjusting the tension on each line.
The clothesline 110 comprises a pair of legs 128 and 130 for supporting the device off the ground and which are located at each end of the clothesline 110. In the embodiment shown, the legs 128 and 130 are hingedly connected to the frame 112 by hinges 132 and 134 respectively. The hinges 130 and 132 permit the legs 128 and 130 to pivot from an in-use standing position shown in FIG. 1 into a folded or collapsed position in which the legs 128 and 130 are folded under the central member 114. The legs are typically made from a pair of hollow aluminium tubes, and in the embodiment shown the tubes have a “D” shaped cross-section.
To assist with the legs 128 and 130 to fold into a folded configuration under the central member 114, leg 128 is first rotated about hinge 132 into a position against the central member 114. Leg 130 may then be rotated about hinge 134. Hinge 134 permits the leg 130 to be rotated and because the leg 130 is off-set (by way of arm 172), it may be positioned so that leg 130 sits flush against leg 128 already folded against the central member 114. In this way, in the folded position one leg 128 is positioned against the central member 114 and the other leg is positioned flush against the leg 130 folded against the central member 114. This provides a clothesline that when in the folded configuration takes up reduced space. The hinges 132 and 134 may be made from a suitable material, such as rigid metal or plastic, and typically will utilise a central axle about which pivoting can occur, although other means of pivotal connection of the legs to the frame may be utilised.
In the embodiment shown, each leg 128 and 130 comprises a pair of struts 136, which may be made from a suitable material such as an aluminium tube, and in the embodiment shown have a “D” shaped cross-section.
Each strut comprises an upper section 138 and a lower section 140, which are laterally displaced to each other. In the embodiment shown, the lower section 140 is positioned adjacent to the upper section 138, being positioned on the outer side 142 of the upper section 138.
The lateral displacement of the upper section 138 and the lower section 140 allows the upper and lower sections to slide past each other, allowing the length of the legs 128 and 130 to be adjusted, and therefore allowing the height of the clothesline from the ground to be adjusted.
In the embodiment shown, sliding of the struts 138 and 140 utilises two slides 144 and 146, which may be made from a suitable material such as a metal or a rigid plastic.
Slide 144 is fixedly connected to each strut 136 at the end of lower section 140, thereby preventing movement of slide 144 with respect to the lower section 140. For example, the slide may be bolted or screwed into the strut in the lower section 140. In the embodiment shown having two struts, it can be seen that there are two slides 144, one for each strut.
The slide 144 comprises an inner sleeve 148, which allows slidable movement of the upper section 138 through the sleeve 144, thereby allowing the upper section 138 and the lower section 140 to slide past each and the length of the legs 128 and 130 to be adjusted, and allowing the height of the clothesline in-use to be adjusted from the ground. This arrangement assists with adjusting the height of a leg and also assists with maintaining the strength of the leg over a range of adjustments of the height.
In the embodiment shown comprising a pair of struts 136, there are two slides 144 (one for each strut 136) which are rigidly connected to each other. In the embodiment shown, the slide 144 of one strut is rigidly connected to the slide 144 of the other strut via the inner sleeves 148. The use of a pair of struts assists with providing strength and/or stability of the clothesline in the standing position.
In the embodiment shown, slide 146 is fixedly connected to each strut 136 at the end of upper section 138 of the strut 136, thereby preventing movement of slide 146 with respect to the upper section 138. For example, the slide may be bolted or screwed into the strut in the upper section 138. In the embodiment shown having two struts, it can be seen that there are two slides 146, one for each strut. The slide 146 also comprises an outer sleeve 150, which allows slidable movement of the lower section 140 through the sleeve 146, allowing the lower section 140 and the upper section 138 to slide past each and the length of the legs 128 and 130 to be adjusted, and thereby allowing the height of the clothesline in use to be adjusted from the ground. The use of a slide with a sleeve assists with ease of adjusting the height of a length and also assists with maintaining the strength of the leg over a range of adjustments of the height.
In the embodiment shown comprising a pair of struts 130, there are two slides 146 (one for each strut 130) which are rigidly connected to each other. In the embodiment shown, the slide 146 of one strut is rigidly connected to the slide 146 of the other strut.
Thus, in the embodiment shown, slide 144 on one strut is rigidly connected to the slide 144 on the second strut, and slide 146 on one strut is rigidly connected to the slide 146 on the other strut. In the embodiment shown, slides 144 are rigidly connected via their inner sleeves 148.
The use of two slides 144 and 146 provides additional strength to the legs, although it will be appreciated that adjustment of the length of the legs 128 and 130 may be achieved using either or both of the slides 144 and 146.
In addition, the rigid connection between slides 144, and/or the rigid connection between slides 146 provides a rigid connection between the struts 136, thereby providing strength to the legs 128 and 130. In addition, the rigid connection together of the slides 144 and 146 serves to ensure that the movement of the upper sections 140 occurs together and that the lower sections 138 also move together.
In the embodiment shown, the height of the frame 112 of the clotheslines 110 may be fixed at a desired height, by adjusting the length of the legs 128 and 130 and thereby adjusting the height of the clothesline 110.
In the embodiment shown, fixing of the height of the clothesline 110 utilises a locking mechanism 152 for locking the length of the legs 128 and 130, by locking the height of the struts 136.
In the embodiment shown, the first slide 144 comprises a mechanism for locking the height of the strut by fixing the relative positions of upper section 138 and lower section 140 at a desired height. The mechanism for locking 152 uses one or more movable locking pins (not visible in FIG. 1) which engage with the upper section 138 of the strut. The locking pins are typically made from a metal or a rigid plastic. In the embodiment shown, the engagement of the locking pins uses apertures 154 which run through the upper section 138 of the strut 136 to receive the locking pins. The locking pins are springably urged into the apertures 154. Withdrawal of the locking pins from the apertures 154 in the upper section 138 of the strut 136 allows vertical movement of the upper 138 and lower sections 140 thereby permitting adjustment of the height of the frame 114.
In the embodiment shown, the clothesline 110 also comprises a bracing member 156 at each end to assist with strength and stability of the clothesline. The bracing material may be made from a suitable material, such as a metal or a rigid plastic. The bracing members 156 are pivotally connected to the legs 128 and 130 at one end by way of a pin 158 that runs through the bracing member 156 and the struts 136 in the upper sections 138 thereof. The bracing member 156 is also slidably connected to the central member 114 and permits the bracing member 156 to move and pivot with respect to the frame 112 as the legs 128 and 130 are rotated from the standing position to the folded position. In the embodiment shown, the central member 114 comprises two parallel members 116 and the bracing member 156 may move in the space between the two parallel members 116.
In the embodiment shown, each of the legs 128 and 130 also comprises a foot 160 and 161 respectively, to assist with stability of the clothesline. The feet 160/161 may be made of a suitable material, such as a metal or a rigid plastic. The feet 160/161 comprises a horizontal member 162 that is rigidly connected to each of the struts 136, thereby providing further rigidity and/or strength to the clothesline 110 in the standing position. Each foot 160 also comprises a means for releasably locking (164 and 166) the legs 128 and 130 in the folded position. In the embodiment shown, the means for releasable locking 164 and 166 are in the form of a claw comprising four resilient fingers 168 and 170. The claws 164 and 166 and the fingers 168 and 170 are typically made from a semi-rigid plastic which permits some flexibility in the fingers.
For leg 128, when the leg 128 is rotated into a folded position, the leg 128 folds against the central member 114. The resilient fingers 168 on the claw 164 releasably engages with the central member 114, thereby releasably locking the leg 128 in place against the central member 114. This assists with ensuring that the feet of the clothesline are restrained when the clothesline is its folded configuration.
When the clothesline 110 is to be erected, the leg 128 is manually pulled away from the frame 112, and the resilient fingers 168 bend to release the engagement of the fingers 168 from the central member 114.
As described previously, leg 130 is connected to frame 122 by a hinge 134, and the leg 130 is off-set with respect to the frame 114, by way of the top of the leg 130 having an angled extension 174. When the clothesline is being collapsed from the standing position to a folded position, firstly leg 128 is rotated so that it folds against the central member and engages with the central member 114 by way of claw 164 described above. Leg 130 is then rotated into a folded position, and due to the angled extension 174, sits against leg 128. The resilient fingers 170 on the claw 166 releasably engage with the struts 136 on the folded leg, thereby releasably holding the leg 130 in place against the other leg 128. In this way, the two folded legs are locked in position when the assembly is in the folded position. When the clothesline 110 is to be erected, the leg 130 is manually pulled away from the leg 129, and the resilient fingers 170 bend to release the engagement of the fingers 170 from the struts 136.
Thus, the foot 160 comprises a means for releasably locking leg 128 to the central member 114 and the other foot 161 comprises a means for releasable locking the other leg 130 to the leg 128 locked to the central member 114. This assists with providing a configuration of the clothesline in the folded configuration whereby the legs are restrained.
To air or dry clothes or other articles, the clothesline 110 is erected into the standing position as shown in FIG. 1 and the clothes or other articles are draped and/or pegged to the lines 120 and 122 for a suitable period of time.
Referring to FIG. 2, there is shown a side view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly 210 for drying and/or airing clothes and other articles, according to one embodiment.
In the embodiment shown, the clothesline assembly 210 comprises a frame 212 for supporting/hanging clothes and other articles. The frame 214 comprises a central member 214. In the embodiment shown, the central member 214 comprises two parallel members 216, one of which is visible in this Figure. The central member 214 supports two cross members or arms 218, which are located at each end of the central member 214 and which are substantially parallel to each other. The cross members support lines for supporting or hanging clothes and other articles, to allow drying and/or airing of the clothes and other articles, one of which line 220 is visible.
The line 220 runs between the cross members 218 which support the line 220. In the embodiment shown, the clothesline 210 comprises two lines, one on each side, and one of which 220 is visible. One end of the line 220 is retained in a ratchet tensioning component 224. The other line is similarly retained in a ratchet tensioning component 226 at the other end of the clothesline 210.
The clothesline 210 also comprises a pair of legs 228 and 230 for supporting the device off the ground and which are located at each of the clothesline 210. In the embodiment shown, the legs 228 and 230 are hingedly/pivotally connected to the frame 212 by hinges 232 and 234 respectively. The hinges 230 and 232 permit the legs 228 and 230 to pivot from an in-use standing position shown in FIG. 1 into a folded or collapsed position in which the legs 228 and 230 are folded under the central member 214.
In the embodiment shown, each leg 228 and 230 comprises a pair of struts 236. Each strut comprises an upper section 238 and a lower section 240, which are laterally displaced to each other.
In the embodiment shown, sliding of the struts 238 and 240 utilises two slides 244 and 246.
Slide 244 is fixedly connected to each strut 236 at the end of lower section 240, thereby preventing movement of slide 244 with respect to the lower section 240. Slide 246 is fixedly connected to each strut 236 at the end of upper section 238 of the strut 236, thereby preventing movement of slide 246 with respect to the upper section 238.
In the embodiment shown, the height of the frame 212 of the clotheslines 210 may be fixed at a desired height, by adjusting the length of the legs 228 and 230 and thereby adjusting the height of the clothesline 210.
In the embodiment shown, fixing of the height of the clothesline 210 utilises a locking mechanism 252 for locking the length of the legs 228 and 230, by locking the height of the struts 236.
In the embodiment shown, the first slide 244 comprises a mechanism for locking the height of the strut by fixing the relative positions of upper section 238 and lower section 240 at a desired height. The mechanism for locking 252 uses one or more movable locking pins (not visible in FIG. 2) which engage with the upper section 238 of the strut. In the embodiment shown, the engagement of the locking pins uses apertures 254 which run through the upper section 238 of the strut 236 to receive the locking pins. The locking pins are springably urged into the apertures 254. Withdrawal of the locking pins from the apertures 254 in the upper section 238 of the strut 236 allows vertical movement of the upper 238 and lower sections 240 thereby permitting adjustment of the height of the frame 214.
It will be appreciated that while above description refers to the ability to lock the height of the clothesline by using a locking mechanism that engages with the upper section 238 of a strut, a similar arrangement can be used whereby a locking mechanism engages with the lower section 240 of a strut.
In the embodiment shown, the clothesline 210 also comprises a bracing member 256 at each end. The bracing members 256 are pivotally connected at one end to the legs 228 and 230 by way of a pin 258 that runs through the bracing member 256 and the struts 236 in the upper sections 238 thereof. The bracing member 256 is slidably connected to the central member 214 and permits the bracing member 256 to move and pivot with respect to the frame 212 as the legs 228 and 230 are rotated from the standing position to the folded position (and vice versa).
In the embodiment shown, each of the legs 228 and 230 comprises a foot 260 and 261 respectively. The feet 260 and 261 each comprise a horizontal member that is rigidly connected to each of the struts 236, thereby providing further rigidity, stability and/or strength to the clothesline 210 in the standing position. Each foot 260 and 261 also comprises a means for releasably locking (264 and 266) the legs 228 and 230 in the folded position. In the embodiment shown, the means for releasable locking 264 and 266 are in the form of a claw comprising four resilient fingers 268 and 270, only one of which is visible in the side view.
As described previously, the connection of leg 230 to the frame 212 is off-set, as the leg 230 has an angled extension 274 at the end connected to the frame. When the clothesline is being collapsed from the standing position to a folded position, firstly leg 228 is rotated so that it folds against the central member 214 and engages with the central member 214 by way of claw 264 described above. Leg 230 is then subsequently rotated into a folded position, and because it is off-set, sits flush against leg 228. This assists with providing a compact configuration of the clothesline in the folded position. The resilient fingers 270 on the claw 266 releasably engage with the struts 236 on the folded leg, thereby releasably holding the leg 230 in place against the other leg 228. Thus, the foot 260 comprises a means for releasably locking leg 228 to the central member 214 and the other foot 261 comprises a means for releasable locking the other leg 230 to the leg 228 locked to the central member 214.
Referring to FIG. 3, there is shown an end view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly 310 for drying and/or airing clothes and other articles according to one embodiment, in which the legs have been adjusted for a maximum height.
The cross member 318 supports the lines for supporting or hanging clothes and other articles.
The lines for hanging the clothes (not visible) run between the cross member 318 and the other cross member (not visible). One end of the line is retained in a ratchet tensioning component 324. The other line is similarly retained in a ratchet tensioning component 326 at the other end of the clothesline 310.
The clothesline 310 also comprises a pair of legs, one of which 328 is visible. The leg 328 is hingedly connected to the frame 312 by a hinge 332. The hinge 332 permits the legs 328 to pivot from an in-use standing position shown in the Figure into a folded or collapsed position in which the leg 328 is folded under clothesline 310.
Leg 328 comprises a pair of struts 336. Each strut comprises an upper section 338 and a lower section 340, which are laterally displaced to each other. In the embodiment shown, sliding of the struts 336 utilises two slides 344 and 346.
Slide 344 is fixedly connected to each strut 336 at the end of lower section 340, thereby preventing movement of slide 344 with respect to the lower section 240. Slide 346 is fixedly connected to each strut 336 at the end of upper section 338 of the strut 336, thereby preventing movement of slide 346 with respect to the upper section 338.
Slides 344 comprise an inner sleeve 348, which allows slidable movement of the upper section 338 through the sleeve 344, thereby allowing the upper section 338 and the lower section 340 to slide past each and the length of the leg 328 to be adjusted.
In the embodiment shown, slide 346 is fixedly connected to each strut 336 at the end of upper section 338 of the strut 336, thereby preventing movement of slide 346 with respect to the upper section 338. For example, the slide may be bolted or screwed into the strut in the upper section 338. Slide 346 also comprises an outer sleeve 350, which allows slidable movement of the lower section 340 through the sleeve 346, allowing the lower section 340 and the upper section 338 to slide past each and the length of the leg 328 to be adjusted.
In the embodiment shown, fixing of the height of the leg 328 utilises a locking mechanism 352 for locking the length of the leg 328, by locking the height of the struts 336.
In the embodiment shown, the clothesline 310 also comprises a bracing member 356 at each end.
In the embodiment shown, leg 328 comprises a foot 360. The foot 360 comprises horizontal members 362 that are rigidly connected to each of the struts 336, thereby providing further rigidity and/or strength to the clothesline 310 in the standing position.
It will also be appreciated that while the leg 328 has been described in this embodiment in connection with a portable clothesline, the use of such a leg for adjusting the height of other types of objects is also contemplated. For example, a height adjustable leg could be used on a folding clothesline where one end is mounted to a fixed structure (such as a wall) and the other end employs a height adjustable leg. Alternatively, a leg(s) as described could be used on a table to adjust the height of the table.
Referring to FIG. 4, there is shown a top view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly 410 for drying and/or airing clothes and other articles according to one embodiment.
In the embodiment shown, the clothesline assembly 410 comprises a frame 412 for supporting/hanging clothes and other articles. The frame 412 comprises a central member 414. In the embodiment shown, the central member 414 comprises two parallel members 416. The use of two parallel members 416 also provides a space between the parallel members, which provides a space for the bracing member 456 to slidably move away from fingers of a user.
The central member 414 supports two cross members or arms 418, which are located at each end of the central member 414 and which are substantially parallel to each other. The cross members support lines 420 and 422 on each side which are used for supporting or hanging clothes and other articles, to allow drying and/or airing of the clothes and other articles.
One end of the line 420 is retained in a ratchet tensioning component 424. The other line 422 is similarly retained in a ratchet tensioning component 426 at the other end of the clothesline 410.
The clothesline 410 also comprises a pair of legs 428 and 430 for supporting the device off the ground and which are located at each end of the clothesline 410.
In the embodiment shown, the clothesline 410 also comprises a bracing member 456 at each end.
Referring to FIG. 5, there is shown an elevated perspective view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly 510 according to one embodiment, in which the clothesline is in the folded or collapsed configuration.
In the embodiment shown, the clothesline assembly 510 comprises a frame 512 for supporting/hanging clothes and other articles. The frame 512 comprises a central member 514. In the embodiment shown, the central member 514 comprises two parallel members 516 (one of which is not shown for clarity purposes). The central member 514 supports two cross members or arms 518, which support lines 520 and 522 for hanging clothes and other articles.
One end of the line 520 is retained in a ratchet tensioning component 524. The other line 522 is similarly retained in a ratchet tensioning component 526 at the other end of the clothesline 510.
The clothesline 510 also comprises a pair of legs 528 and 530 which have pivoted from an in-use standing position into a folded or collapsed position shown in FIG. 5.
In the folded position, the legs 528 and 530 are located under the central member 514. Leg 528 (and foot 560) has been first rotated into a position where it sits against the central member 514.
Leg 530 (and foot 561) has subsequently been rotated so that it sits flush against leg 528 already folded against the central member 514. In this way, in the folded position one leg 528 is positioned against the central member 514 and the other leg 530 is positioned flush against the leg 528 folded against the central member 514.
In the embodiment shown, the legs 528 and 530 have been set at a maximal length, using slides 544 and 546. However, it will be appreciated that the clothesline 510 may be folded into a folded position with the legs 528 and 530 set at different lengths.
Bracing members 556 have adopted their folded position.
Referring to FIG. 6, there is shown a side view of a height adjustable portable clothesline assembly 610, in which the clothesline is in the folded or collapsed configuration.
The clothesline assembly 610 comprises a frame 612 for supporting/hanging clothes and other articles. The frame 612 comprises a central member 614, which comprises two parallel members. The central member 614 supports two cross members or arms 618, which support lines for hanging clothes and other articles, one of which is visible 620.
In the folded configuration, after pivoting about hinge 632, leg 628 and foot 660 are positioned against the central member 614. Leg 630 (and foot 661) is pivoted about hinge 634 and due to arm 642 folds against leg 628.
In the folded configuration the tops of bracing members 656 do not substantially extend past the top of the central member 614, thereby providing a top surface that is substantially free of components extending above the surface line.
Referring to FIG. 7, there is shown a rear perspective view of the leg of a clothesline showing the components to allow height adjustment of a clothesline, according to one embodiment.
A leg 728 comprises a pair of struts 736. Each strut 736 comprises an upper section 738 and a lower section 740, which are laterally displaced to each other. In the embodiment shown, the upper section 738 is positioned adjacent to the lower section 740, being positioned so that the lower section 740 is located outside of the upper section 738.
Sliding of the struts 738 and 740 utilises two slides 744 and 746. Slide 744 is fixedly connected to a strut 736 at the top end of lower section 740 by way of screws 786, thereby preventing movement of slide 744 with respect to the lower section 740. Slide 746 is fixedly connected to a strut 736 at the bottom end of upper section 738 of the strut 736 by way of screws 788, thereby preventing movement of slide 746 with respect to the upper section 738.
In the embodiment shown having two struts, it can be seen that there are two slides 744, one for each strut. Each slide 744 comprises an inner sleeve 748, which allows slidable movement of the upper section 738 through the sleeve 748, thereby allowing the upper section 738 to slide past the lower section 740 and the length of the leg 728 to be adjusted.
Slides 744 (one for each strut 736) are rigidly connected to each other. In the embodiment shown, the slide 744 of one strut is rigidly connected to the slide 744 of the other strut via connection of the inner sleeves 748.
In the embodiment shown having two struts, it can be seen that there are two slides 746, one for each strut. The slide 746 also comprises an outer sleeve 750, which allows slidable movement of the lower section 740 through the slide 746, allowing the lower section 740 to slide past the upper section 738 and the length of the leg 728.
Slides 746 (one for each strut 737) are rigidly connected to each other. In the embodiment shown, the slide 746 of one strut is rigidly connected to the slide 746 of the other strut.
Referring to FIG. 8, there is shown a perspective view of a leg 828 of a clothesline assembly 810 according to one embodiment, when the leg 828 is adjusted for a minimum height.
Leg 828 comprises a pair of struts 836. Each strut comprises an upper section 838 and a lower section 840, which are laterally displaced to each other.
Sliding of the struts 836 utilises two slides 844 and 846. Slides 844 and 846 have been slid apart to near the maximum permissible distance where slide 846 reaches near the foot 860 of the leg. In this way, the overlap between the upper sections 838 and the lower sections 840 is maximised, thereby reducing the length of the leg 828 to a minimum and therefore adjusting the height of the frame 812 from the ground.
Referring to FIG. 9, there is shown a perspective view of the internal components of the locking mechanism 952 according to one embodiment, in which the mechanism is in the locked position.
The locking mechanism 952 comprises locking pins 978 which are received into apertures 954 on the upper section 938 of the struts 936. The locking mechanism 952 uses a spring 979 to urge the locking pins 978 into the apertures 954 when no force is applied to a crank handle present on the other side of the locking mechanism 952. The crank handle is rigidly connected to a plate 980, which rotates about axle 981.
The plate 980 comprises a securing pin 982. Securing pin 982 is attached to the end of the spring 979, the other end of which is secured to securing pin 983 on the frame of the locking mechanism 952, thereby providing a non-movable anchor point for the spring 979. This arrangement acts to provide torsional force to plate 980, thereby urging the locking pins 978 into the apertures 954 when no force is applied to the crank handle. The locking pins 978 engage at one end with the plate 980 by way of pins 983, which act to translate the rotational movement of the plate 980 to lateral movement of the locking pins 978.
When the crank handle is turned, the plate 980 rotates counterclockwise, thereby acting to withdraw the locating pins 978 from the apertures 954 and permitting the slide 944 to move with respect to the upper section 938 of the strut 936. Once the crank handle is released, spring 979 acts to urge the locking pins 978 back into the apertures 954.
In addition, and visible in FIG. 9, are the apertures 984 in the lower section 940 of the strut 936, which receive screws for locking the slide 944 to the lower section of the struts 936.
Turning to FIG. 10 there is shown a perspective view of the base of the leg 1028, according to one embodiment.
The leg 1028 comprises a foot 1060 which comprises two horizontal members 1085. The leg 1028 comprises a single component 1086 that has two vertical female holders 1087 for receiving the ends of the struts 1036 and holding them in place by screws. The component 1086 also has two horizontal female holders 1088 for receiving the ends of each horizontal member 1085 and holding them in place by screws 1089.
Component 1086 also comprises a means 1064 for releasably holding the leg 1028 against the central member. In the embodiment shown, the means 1064 for releasably holding the leg against the central member comprises a claw 1064. The claw 1064 comprises 4 resilient fingers 1090. 1091, 1092 and 1093. Fingers 1090 and 1091 releasably engage with one of the parallel members of the central member and fingers 1092 and 1093 releasably engage with the other parallel member of the central member. As the leg 1028 is folded against the central member, resilient fingers 1090-1093 splay outwards as their ends contact the parallel member and once the ends have moved past the parallel member, the fingers 1090 to 1093 releasably hold the leg against the central member.
The foot on the other leg also (not shown) also comprises a similar claw as to that of leg 1028. That claw acts to provide a means for releasably locking the other leg to the leg 1028 when that leg is locked to the central member. In this case, the fingers of that claw engage with struts 1036 in a similar manner to claw 1064.
Referring to FIG. 11, there is shown internal views of a bracing member 1156 when the clothesline is locked in a standing position (FIG. 11A) or in an unlocked position (FIG. 11B).
Turning to FIG. 11A, a bracing member 1156 is located at each end of the clothesline 1110. The bracing members 1156 is pivotally connected to the leg 1128, by way of a pin 1158 that runs through the bracing member 1056 and the upper section 1138 of a strut 1136. The pivotal connection of the bracing member 1156 to the leg 1128 allows the bracing member 1156 to pivot as the leg 1128 is folded.
The bracing member 1156 slidably engages with a parallel member 1116 on the central member. In this way, the leg 1128 comprises a bracing member 1156 between the leg 1128 and the central member, and the bracing member 1156 is pivotally connected to the leg 1127.
The parallel member 1116 comprises a protrusion 1194, in the form of a pin 1194 that is able to move along a slot 1195 in the brace member 1156. In the locked standing position shown in FIG. 11A, the bracing member 1156 is in a locked position, by way of use of the pin 1194 and the slot 1195 as a locking means that locks the brace member 1156. Locking is achieved by the use of a notch 1196 in the slot 1195 of the bracing member 1156 which prevents the pin 1194 moving along the slot 1195 and thereby locking the bracing member 1156. The locking of the bracing member 1156 prevents movement of leg 1128, thereby locking the leg 1128 in a standing position and providing support to the leg 1128.
The configuration of the slot 1195 in the bracing member 1156 is such that is permits the leg to pivot and move away/towards the central member.
Turning to FIG. 11B, to unlock the bracing member, manual lifting of the brace member 1056 by way of the tab 1197 moves the pin 1194 out from the notch 1196 into the slot 1195, thereby permitting the slot 1195 to slide with respect to the pin 1194. This permits the leg 1128 to pivot about hinge 1132 as shown in FIG. 12.
Referring to FIG. 12, there is shown an internal side view of a bracing member 1256 as the leg 1228 rotates about hinge 1232 (FIG. 12A) to the folded or collapsed position (FIG. 12B), according to one embodiment.
Turning to FIG. 12A, the leg 1228 pivots about hinge 1232. As the bracing member 1256 moves, the end of the bracing member extends above the central member 1214. The pin 1194 travels along the slot 1295, the slot being configured to move pivoting of the leg 1225 from the standing position to the folded position, and vice versa. In this way, the bracing member 1256 may move and pivot with respect to the central member 1214 as the leg 1228 folds or opens.
FIG. 12B shows the positioning of the brace member 1256 when the leg 1228 has been fully folded. The brace member 1256 has moved so that the end of the slot 1295 now abuts the pin 1294. The shape of the bracing member 1256, in conjunction with the configuration of the slot 1295, results in the top of the bracing member 1256 sitting flush with the top of the central member when the leg is completed folded to this position.
It will also be appreciate that while the bracing member(s) have been described in connection with a portable clothesline, the use of a bracing member for other types of object is also contemplated, such as tables with foldable legs.
Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it will be appreciated that the disclosure may be embodied in many other forms. It will also be appreciated that the disclosure described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the disclosure includes all such variations and modifications. The disclosure also includes all of the steps, features, compositions and compounds referred to, or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any two or more of the steps or features.
Also, it is to be noted that, as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural aspects unless the context already dictates otherwise.
Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or integer or group of elements or integers but not the exclusion of any other element or integer or group of elements or integers.
Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any country.
The subject headings used herein are included only for the ease of reference of the reader and should not be used to limit the subject matter found throughout the disclosure or the claims. The subject headings should not be used in construing the scope of the claims or the claim limitations.
The description provided herein is in relation to several embodiments which may share common characteristics and features. It is to be understood that one or more features of one embodiment may be combinable with one or more features of the other embodiments. In addition, a single feature or combination of features of the embodiments may constitute additional embodiments.
All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless indicated otherwise herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the example embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential.
Future patent applications may be filed on the basis of the present application, for example by claiming priority from the present application, by claiming a divisional status and/or by claiming a continuation status. It is to be understood that the following claims are provided by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of what may be claimed in any such future application. Nor should the claims be considered to limit the understanding of (or exclude other understandings of) the present disclosure. Features may be added to or omitted from the example claims at a later date.
Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to particular examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the disclosure may be embodied in many other forms.

Claims

1. A height adjustable portable clothesline assembly, the clothesline assembly comprising:

a frame for hanging clothes;

at least two legs supporting the frame, the at least two legs comprising a strut comprising an upper section and a lower section which are laterally displaced, the lower section comprising a first slide fixedly connected to the lower section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the upper section through the sleeve, and the upper section comprising a second slide fixedly connected to the upper section and having a sleeve to allow slidable movement of the lower section through the sleeve,

wherein movement of the upper section through the first slide and/or movement of the lower section though the second slide allows adjustment of the height of the frame of the portable clothesline assembly.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first slide is fixedly connected at an end region of the lower section and/or the second slide is fixedly connected at an end region of the upper section.

3. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein each leg comprises a pair of struts.

4. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the assembly comprises two legs.

5. The assembly according to claim 3, wherein the first slide of one strut is rigidly connected to the first slide on the other strut and/or the second slide of one strut is rigidly connected to the second slide of the other strut.

6. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the height of the frame may be locked at a desired height.

7. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first slide comprises a means for locking the height of the strut.

8. The assembly according to claim 7, wherein the first slide comprises one or more movable locking pins that engage with the upper section of the strut to lock the height of the strut.

9. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein the upper section of the strut comprises one or more apertures to receive the one or more locking pins.

10. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein the one or more locking pins are springably urged into the one or more apertures.

11. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein withdrawal of the one or more locking pins from the upper section of the strut and vertical movement of the upper and/or lower sections permits adjustment of the height of the frame.

12. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein movement of the one or more locking pins is connected to a rotatable movement of a crank to engage or disengage the one or more locking pins with the upper section of a strut.

13. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the legs are hingedly connected to the frame so that the legs can pivot between a folded position and a standing position.

14. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the frame comprises a central member and a cross member located at or toward each end of the central member, the cross members supporting one or more lines for hanging clothes.

15. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the legs are hingedly connected to the frame so that the legs can pivot between a folded position and a standing position and the at least two legs comprise a bracing member between the legs and the central member, wherein the bracing member is pivotally connected to a leg.

16. The assembly according to claim 15, wherein the assembly comprises a locking means for locking the bracing member when the legs are in the standing position.

17. The assembly according to claim 15, wherein the bracing member comprises a slot which permits a protrusion on the central member to engage with the slot and move along the slot as the bracing member moves when the legs move between the folded position and the standing position.

18. (canceled)

19. The assembly according to claim 17, wherein the bracing member is locked when the clothesline is in the standing position.

20-31. (canceled)

32. The assembly according to claim 13, wherein the assembly comprises a means for releasably locking the legs in the folded position.

33. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the legs are hingedly connected to the frame so that the legs can pivot between a folded position and a standing position and in the folded position one leg is positioned against the central member and the other leg is positioned against the leg folded against the central member.