US20250137192A1

US20250137192A1 - Automated Clothes-Folding Device

Info

Publication number: US20250137192A1
Application number: US18/931,136
Authority: US
Inventors: Tonya Quinn
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2023-10-30
Filing date: 2024-10-30
Publication date: 2025-05-01

Abstract

An automated clothes-folding device is provided. The device is comprised of a housing, which may take on various geometric shapes, preferably square or rectangular, and can be constructed from materials such as plastic or metal. The housing encloses an interior space where the folding operation occurs. The folding mechanism is centered around a base plate with left, right, and bottom panels that fold garments sequentially, driven by motorized or manual hinges. The device also features a steam-generating element for wrinkle removal and is powered by a rechargeable battery or continuous power via a cord. Users can initiate folding and steaming processes through external buttons, providing an automated solution for garment handling.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/594,050, which was filed on Oct. 30, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of garment folding. More specifically, the present invention relates to a garment folding device comprised of a housing with motorized or manual folding panels and an integrated steam-generating element for wrinkle removal. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

After going through the considerable work of sorting, washing, and drying a full load of laundry, the next step—folding and organizing the clean clothes—can be an unexpectedly time-consuming and laborious process. While the initial stages of doing laundry, such as running the washer and dryer, are fairly automated, the manual task of folding each piece of clothing can become quite monotonous and exhausting. This is particularly true when faced with a large pile of freshly laundered items that need to be folded neatly and put away in their designated places. For many people, this step often feels like a daunting chore, requiring patience and attention to detail. Not only does it add significant time to the overall laundry routine, but it can also feel frustrating when it interrupts other activities or responsibilities. The act of carefully folding various types of clothing, from large bed sheets to delicate garments, often feels repetitive and can quickly turn into a tiresome task, making the whole process of doing laundry seem more cumbersome and overwhelming than it needs to be.
Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a folding device. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an automated clothes-folding device. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an automated clothes-folding device that automatically folds a garment or other foldable items placed within the device.
The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises an automated clothes-folding device. The device is comprised of a housing, which may take on various geometric shapes, preferably square or rectangular, and can be constructed from materials such as plastic or metal. The housing encloses an interior space where the folding operation occurs. The folding mechanism is centered around a base plate with left, right, and bottom panels that fold garments sequentially, driven by motorized or manual hinges. The device also features a steam-generating element for wrinkle removal and is powered by a rechargeable battery or continuous power via a cord. Users can initiate folding and steaming processes through external buttons, providing an automated solution for garment handling.
In this manner, the automated clothes-folding device of the present invention accomplishes all the forgoing objectives and provides a device for folding clothes. More specifically, the device automatically folds clothes or other foldable items placed inside the device. As a result, the device greatly improves the clothes-folding experience of a user while doing laundry.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises an automated clothes-folding device. The device is comprised of a housing that may take various shapes, preferably square or rectangular for efficient space use. It is constructed from durable materials like plastic, metal, or composite and may feature aesthetic finishes such as matte or glossy surfaces. The housing contains an interior space accessible via a hinged lid, which can be secured by various locking mechanisms, including magnetic or electronic locks. In some embodiments, the lid may be transparent or translucent for viewing the interior.
The interior space is comprised of a folding base plate with three panels: left, right, and bottom. These panels are connected by hinges that may be mechanical or motorized, allowing for automated folding sequences. The motorized configuration enables synchronized panel movements, controlled by at least one motor, for fully automated folding with minimal manual intervention. The panels can be manually adjusted in non-motorized versions and are designed for folding common garments like shirts and towels. Soft, non-abrasive surfaces on the panels protect delicate fabrics.
Additionally, the device may feature a steam-generating element that removes wrinkles before or during the folding process. This element can operate independently or be integrated into the folding sequence, with adjustable steam settings for different fabric types.
The motor is powered by a rechargeable battery or through a power cord for continuous operation. The device may include an indicator light or display for battery status and support alternative power inputs like solar panels or USB charging.
A method of using the device involves placing a garment on the base plate, pressing a button to initiate the folding sequence, and optionally activating the steam function for wrinkle removal.
Accordingly, the automated clothes-folding device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a device for folding clothes. More specifically, the device automatically folds clothes or other foldable items placed inside the device. As a result, the device greatly improves the clothes-folding experience of a user while doing laundry. In this manner, the automated clothes-folding device overcomes the limitations of existing methods of folding clothes known in the art.
To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of one potential embodiment of an automated clothes-folding device of the present invention with a closed lid in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of one potential embodiment of an automated clothes-folding device of the present invention with an open lid and a garment on the base in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of a base, a left panel, a right panel, and a bottom panel of one potential embodiment of an automated clothes-folding device of the present invention in an unfolded position with a closed lid in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of an interior space of one potential embodiment of an automated clothes-folding device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of an automated clothes-folding device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.
As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a folding device. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for an automated clothes-folding device. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an automated clothes-folding device that automatically folds a garment or other foldable items placed within the device.
The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of an automated clothes-folding device. The device includes a housing that may vary in shape, preferably square or rectangular for optimal space efficiency. It is made from durable materials such as plastic, metal, or composite, and may feature aesthetic finishes like matte or glossy surfaces. The housing encloses an interior space accessible through a hinged lid, which can be secured by locking mechanisms, such as magnetic or electronic locks. In some embodiments, the lid may be transparent or translucent for viewing the interior.
The interior space includes a folding base plate with three panels: left, right, and bottom. These panels are connected by hinges that can be mechanical or motorized, enabling automated folding sequences. In the motorized version, panel movements are synchronized and controlled by at least one motor, allowing for fully automated folding with minimal manual effort. The panels in non-motorized versions can be manually adjusted and are designed to fold garments like shirts and towels. Soft, non-abrasive surfaces on the panels protect delicate fabrics.
The device may also include a steam-generating element to remove wrinkles before or during the folding process. This element can function independently or as part of the folding sequence, with adjustable steam settings for different fabric types.
The motor is powered by a rechargeable battery or a power cord for continuous operation. The device may include an indicator light or display for battery status and may support alternative power inputs such as solar panels or USB charging.
The method of using the device involves placing a garment on the base plate, pressing a button to initiate the folding sequence, and optionally activating the steam function for wrinkle removal.
Thus, the automated clothes-folding device provides a solution for automatically folding clothes or other foldable items placed inside. This greatly enhances the user's experience during laundry by improving efficiency and overcoming the limitations of existing folding methods.
Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of one potential embodiment of an automated clothes-folding device 100 of the present invention with a closed lid in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is comprised of a housing 110. The housing 110 may take on various geometric shapes, including circular or oval, but is preferably square or rectangular for optimized space utilization and ease of placement in domestic or commercial environments. The housing 110 may be constructed from materials such as plastic, metal, or composite materials, which provide durability while maintaining a lightweight profile. Additionally, the housing 110 could include aesthetic finishes, such as matte or glossy surfaces, to align with different design preferences. The housing 110 is further comprised of an interior space 115, which serves as the primary operational area of the device 100. The interior space 115 is accessible through at least one lid 111 or door, allowing users to place or retrieve garments 10 from the device. The lid 111 is attached to the housing 110 by at least one hinge 112, which may be a standard mechanical hinge, or in some embodiments, a spring-loaded hinge that facilitates smoother opening and closing actions. The lid 111 may be secured to the housing 110 using at least one locking mechanism 113, which can vary depending on user preferences and security needs. Locking mechanisms may include but are not limited to button locks, latches, magnetic locks, electronic locks, etc. providing enhanced safety by preventing accidental opening or unauthorized access. In some embodiments, the lid 111 may be transparent or translucent, allowing users to observe the interior space 115 without opening the lid.
The interior space 115 is comprised of a folding base plate 120. The base plate 120 is designed to provide a stable and adjustable surface for garments during the folding process. The base plate 120 is comprised of at least three panels: a left panel 121, a right panel 122, and a bottom panel 123, as seen in FIG. 3 . Each panel 121, 122, and 123 is connected to the base plate 120 by at least one hinge 124. The hinges 124 may be standard mechanical hinges or, in more advanced embodiments, the hinges 124 may be motorized hinges for automated movement. In one embodiment, the hinge 124 is a motorized hinge, allowing for synchronized panel movements controlled by at least one motor 125. This configuration enables a fully automated folding sequence, minimizing the need for manual intervention and ensuring consistent folds every time. The motor 125 may be located within the housing 110 or adjacent to the base plate 120, depending on the specific design. In a different embodiment, the hinge 124 is non-motorized, meaning the panels 121, 122, and 123 can be manually adjusted or manipulated by a motor 125 that drives other mechanical components such as but not limited to at least one actuator 140, as seen in FIG. 4 .
The base plate 120 and corresponding panels 121, 122, and 123 may be manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate different garment types, but a square or rectangular shape is preferred for folding common items such as shirts, pants, and towels. The dimensions of the base plate 120 can be adjustable or customizable to suit various garment sizes, from children's clothing to larger adult garments. In operation, once a garment 10 is placed flat on the base plate 120, at least one button 114 located on the exterior or interior of the device 100 can be pressed, initiating the folding sequence. First, the left panel 121 folds over the garment 10, applying light pressure to smooth out any wrinkles or creases. After a set duration, the left panel 121 retracts, returning to its original position. Subsequently, the right panel 122 folds over the garment 10, performing a similar action and retracting in sequence. Finally, the bottom panel 123 folds upward, completing the folding process. This sequential folding action is designed to produce a neatly folded garment that remains positioned on the base plate 120. In certain configurations, the folding panels 121, 122, and 123 may feature soft, non-abrasive surfaces, such as rubber or fabric padding, to protect delicate fabrics from damage.
In addition to folding, the interior space 115 may also be comprised of at least one steam-generating element 116, which provides the additional functionality of garment steaming. The steam-generating element 116 is designed to emit steam at controlled temperatures and pressures, effectively removing wrinkles from garments 10 before they are folded. This feature may be particularly useful for items made from cotton, linen, or other fabrics prone to wrinkling. The steam-generating element 116 may be controlled independently or integrated into the overall folding sequence, activating automatically when a garment is detected within the device. In some embodiments, the element 116 may include adjustable steam settings, allowing users to modify the intensity and duration of steam based on the fabric type or condition of the garment via at least one button 118.
The motor 125 that powers the folding mechanisms of the panels 121, 122, and 123 is driven by at least one battery 130. The battery 130 may be a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or other suitable power source, providing sufficient energy for multiple folding and steaming cycles. The battery 130 is comprised of at least one charging port 131, which allows the battery to be recharged using standard power outlets. In some embodiments, the device 100 may feature an indicator light 150 or display 160 that shows the current charge level of the battery 130, alerting users when recharging is necessary. Additionally, the battery 130 may be charged through at least one power cord 132, enabling continuous operation when plugged into an electrical outlet. This dual power option allows the device 100 to function either as a portable unit, running on battery power, or as a stationary unit with a constant power supply via the power cord 132. In certain embodiments, the device 100 may also support alternative power inputs, such as solar panels or USB charging ports, enhancing its versatility in various settings.
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 5 . First, a device 100 is provided comprised of a housing 110 comprised of a base plate 120, a left panel 121, a right panel 122, a bottom panel 123, and a motor 125 [Step 202]. Then, a user can place a garment 10 onto the base plate 120 in an unfolded state, as seen in FIG. 2 [Step 204]. Next, a user can initiate a folding sequence by pressing at least one button 114 located on the device 100, causing the left panel 121 to fold over the garment 10 and retract, the right panel 122 folding over the garment 10 and retracting in sequence, and the bottom panel 123 folding upward to complete the folding process [Step 206]. Additionally, a user can activate a steaming element 116 via a button 118 to steam the garment 10 to remove wrinkles from the garment 10 before or during the folding sequence [Step 208].
Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “automated clothes-folding device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the automated clothes-folding device 100 of the present invention.
Notwithstanding the forgoing, the automated clothes-folding device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the automated clothes-folding device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the automated clothes-folding device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the automated clothes-folding device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the automated clothes-folding device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.
Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.
What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An automated clothes-folding device comprising:

a housing comprised of an interior space;

a base plate positioned within the interior space, the base plate comprised of a left panel, a right panel, and a bottom panel, each of the left panel, the right panel, and the bottom panel being movably connected to the base plate by a first hinge;

a motor configured to control the movement of the left panel, the right panel, and the bottom panel to perform a folding sequence; and

a lid attached to the housing by a second hinge, wherein the lid is operable to allow access to the interior space.

2. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 1, wherein the housing is comprised of a rectangular or a square shape.

3. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 1 further comprised of a locking mechanism.

4. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 3, wherein the locking mechanism attaches the lid to the housing.

5. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 4, wherein the locking mechanism is comprised of a button lock, a latch, a magnetic lock, or an electronic lock.

6. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 1, wherein the lid is transparent or translucent.

7. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 1 further comprised of an actuator.

8. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 1 further comprised of an indicator light or a display.

9. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 1 further comprised of a battery.

10. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 1, wherein the left panel, the right panel, and the bottom panel are comprised of a non-abrasive material.

11. An automated clothes-folding device comprising:

a housing comprised of an interior space;

a base plate positioned within the interior space, the base plate comprised of a left panel, a right panel, and a bottom panel, each of the left panel, the right panel, and the bottom panel being movably connected to the base plate by a motorized hinge;

a one steam-generating element;

a first button configured to activate the steam-generating element; and

a second button configured to activate the motorized hinge.

12. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 11, wherein the steam-generating element is positioned within the interior space.

13. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 11 further comprised of a display.

14. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 11 further comprised of an indicator light.

15. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 11, wherein the lid is transparent.

16. The automated clothes-folding device of claim 11, wherein the left panel, the right panel, and the bottom panel are comprised of a non-abrasive material.

17. A method of using an automated clothes-folding device, the method comprising the following steps:

providing an automated clothes-folding device comprised of providing a garment folding device comprised a housing, a base plate, a left panel, a right panel, a bottom panel, and a motor;

placing a garment in an unfolded state onto the base plate; and

initiating a folding sequence, wherein the left panel folds over the garment and retracts, the right panel folds over the garment and retracts, and the bottom panel folds upward to complete the folding process.

18. The method of using an automated clothes-folding device of claim 17 further comprised of a step of steaming the garment.

19. The method of using an automated clothes-folding device of claim 18 further comprised of a step of pressing a button to initiate the folding sequence.

20. The method of using an automated clothes-folding device of claim 17 comprised of pressing a button to initiate the folding sequence.