U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division
[Manual of Classification, Class Listing] [Manual of Classification, Class 038] [Classification Definitions, Class Listing] [USPTO Home Page]

U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000

[Explanation of Data]

Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on the subclass number
preceding each subclass definition or on the " [Patents] " icon, below.
( please note that patents for some subclasses may not be available )

For classification search strategies, please refer to the Classification Index Explanation of Data web page.

(definitions have been obtained from the Patents ASSIST CD-ROM which is produced by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Electronic Products Branch)


Class 038

TEXTILES: IRONING OR SMOOTHING


Class Definition:
This class is the generic class for devices and processes for producing a smooth appearance on the surface of a textile article or fabric, by pressing, stretching, rolling, sliding contact, or other means, as well as accessory means used in conjunction with the devices or operations.

REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
12, Boot and Shoe Making, subclass 57.1 for upper turning combined with seam smoothing.
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, subclass 104, for devices for cleaning the flat iron sole surfaces.
26, Textiles: Cloth Finishing, subclass 51 and 71 for devices for stretching a textile web or fabric to straighten the edges or stretch the web.
29, Metal Working, subclass 90.01 for machines and processes for condensing, compacting, smoothing, or polishing the surface of metallic or nonmetallic articles, usually by rubbing with a smooth surface of greater hardness than that of the articles being operated upon.
34, Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, for devices and methods of drying generally, particularly subclass 94, 110, 306, 414, 419+, 444+, 466, 556, and 611+.
69, Leather Manufactures, particularly subclass 7, 27 and 37 to 47 for apparatus for smoothing of fur, hides, skins, or leather.
100, Presses, appropriate subclasses, for presses, per se, not elsewhere provided for.
219, Electric Heating, subclass 245 for flat irons which are electrically heated and in which the invention lies in the heating means, see Class. If heated by gas or liquid fuel and the invention lies in the heating means, see Class 126, Stoves and Furnaces, subclass 411. If heated by extraneous means, see Class 126, Stoves and Furnaces, subclasses 227, 228 and 230.
223, Apparel Apparatus, for devices for and methods of shaping or forming a fabric such as an article of apparel and combined means for both forming or shaping with smoothing or ironing. The ironing and shaping of collars, cuffs and garments by stretching or molding them to shape over a form is in Class 223, Apparel Apparatus, as are all devices for smoothing the edges of collars and cuffs, whether the article is formed at the same time or not. If a fabric or garment is slipped loosely over a support to facilitate ironing or smoothing, it is in this class (38). Devices for shaping and smoothing the neckband of a shirt as an incident to ironing the shirt as a whole, are in this class (38) and devices illustrating a device for forming and smoothing, but claiming only a smoothing operation, are in this class and cross-referenced into Class 223, Apparel Apparatus.
248, Supports, subclass 117.1 for flat iron stands, per se.
312, Supports: Cabinet Structure, subclass 242 and 245 for wall accommodated or wall mounted enclosures.
131, Tobacco, subclasses 290+ or machines and processes for smoothing tobacco leaves, see Class.
118, Coating Apparatus, subclass 271 for pads impregnated with a heat liquefiable coating material.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, for articles named as adjuncts of Class 38 structure wherein the only characteristic claimed is a base carrying a coating, see appropriate subclasses of Class 428 for a stock material product in the form of a single or plural layer web or sheet, and especially subclass 411.1 for a composite web or sheet characterized solely by the compositions of the layers.


SUBCLASSES


Subclass: 1 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under the class definition. Smoothing machines, not otherwise provided for.

Subclass: 2 [Patents]

Smoothing machines of this class combined with a machine which does not iron or smooth.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 102 for presses not elsewhere provided for, combined with added features.

Subclass: 3 [Patents]

Wherein the other machine is a fabric moistener.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14 for moistening effected during the smoothing operation and not prior or subsequent to the smoothing operation.
77.1 for moistening devices, combined with sad irons.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
68, Textiles: Fluid Treating Apparatus, subclass 5 and subclass 200 for moistening devices of specific types.
100, Presses, subclass 73 for pressing devices not elsewhere provided for and having means to add liquid or steam to the material being pressed.

Subclass: 4 [Patents]

Multiple smoothing machines of this class having independent pressing couples.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19 through 24, and subclass 44 for pressing elements common to two or more pressing machines.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 193 for plural presses not elsewhere provided for.

Subclass: 5 [Patents]

Multiple machines of this class having independent pressing couples, all pressing elements being platens.

Subclass: 6 [Patents]

Machines wherein a smoother element is common to two other smoother elements of unlike character. An apron pressing the fabric against another smoother element is regarded as a smoother element and may be the common element.

Subclass: 7 [Patents]

A machine with a movable device for transferring the article smoothed to, through, from or back to the front of the machine.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 144 for presses not elsewhere provided for of a concurrent pressing and conveying type, and subclass 214 for reciprocating platen presses not elsewhere provided for.

Subclass: 8 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Devices wherein the movable device is a conveyor belt.

Subclass: 9 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Devices wherein the conveyor belt passes between opposed pressing elements.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 153 for concurrent pressing and conveying presses of the endless conveyer type, not elsewhere provided for, and in which a roll element coacts with an endless conveyer to effect the pressing action.

Subclass: 10 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Devices wherein the opposed pressing elements are platens.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 222 for reciprocating platen presses not elsewhere provided for, having a belt-type plural or indexing material support.

Subclass: 11 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Devices wherein the conveyor belt is opposed to a single smoother with the work between the belt and the smoother.

Subclass: 12 [Patents]

Machines of this class with means for clamping or stretching a garment on one of the smoothing elements.
(1) Note. For clamps and stretchers used in conjunction with ironing tables, see this class, subclasses 108 and 109.

Subclass: 13 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 12. Devices with means for clamping or stretching a garment on one of the smoothing elements combined with means for engaging the neckband of a shirt while on the smoothing element.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
70 for simple hand-operated implements for smoothing and stretching a fabric.
108 through 110 for clamps and stretchers and neckband engaging devices used in conjunction with ironing tables.

Subclass: 14 [Patents]

Smoothing machines with means for effecting flow of fluid, whether it be a gas, a liquid or a vapor to or through the work during the smoothing operation.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for fluid applied to the work prior to entering the smoothing machine, or subsequent thereto.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 73 for pressing apparatus, not elsewhere classified, having means for introducing liquid and/or steam into contact with the material.

Subclass: 15 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Devices wherein the smoothing elements are of the platen type.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
66 for condensate is drained from a platen by the action of gravity.

Subclass: 16 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 15. Devices wherein the novelty is solely in the platen structure.

Subclass: 17 [Patents]

Smoothing machines wherein the work is smoothed between platens.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 214 for reciprocating platen presses not elsewhere provided for.

Subclass: 18 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Devices wherein one of the platens has a rotary movement about an axis perpendicular to the plane surface.

Subclass: 19 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Devices wherein four or more platens are arranged one above another with the work smoothed between each pair of opposing faces.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 194 for plural presses of the stacked plate type, not elsewhere provided for.

Subclass: 20 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Devices wherein one of the press platens has parts which are adjustable with respect to other parts of the platen.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 237 for reciprocating platen presses not elsewhere provided for, in which there are plural movable platens moving parallel to one another and opposing a single platen.

Subclass: 21 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Devices wherein three or more press elements, not otherwise specifically provided for below, are involved.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses subclass 232 for reciprocating platen presses not elsewhere classified, in which there are three or more platens moving on intersecting paths, not elsewhere provided for.

Subclass: 22 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Devices wherein the machine is so constructed as to facilitate the laying of a fabric on one press platen while the fabric on another press platen is being subjected to pressure.

Subclass: 23 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Devices wherein one of the press platens is a reciprocable platen.

Subclass: 24 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Devices wherein an interchange of platens may be obtained to effect pressure between platens and in which a fabric cannot be dressed on a press platen while a fabric on another press platen is being subjected to pressure.

Subclass: 25 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Devices wherein there are but two press platens and it is necessary in effecting the smoothing of a textile to move both press platens. The movement of one press platen may be effected by inflating a bag, one wall of which forms a platen.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 211 for presses not elsewhere provided for, having a flexible sheet platen, and subclass 264 for reciprocating platen presses, not elsewhere provided for, in which opposed platens are both actuated.

Subclass: 26 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Devices wherein one of the two press platens has a reciprocable motion, i.e., a back and forth motion, without intervention of an operator.

Subclass: 27 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Devices wherein there are but two press platens and it is necessary, in effecting the smoothing of a textile, to move but one of the press platens.

Subclass: 28 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Devices wherein the movable press platen has a reciprocable movement.

Subclass: 29 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Devices wherein there is a roll about which a textile is wound positioned between a platen and a second reciprocable platen.

Subclass: 30 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Devices wherein a platen is moved rectilinearly in both horizontal and vertical directions to effect a smoothing operation.

Subclass: 31 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Devices wherein the movement is effected by power mechanism.

Subclass: 32 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Devices wherein a platen is moved in both an orbital path about a fixed axis and in a rectilinearly horizontal path to effect a smoothing operation.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 226 for reciprocating platen presses, not elsewhere classified, in which the actuated piston or platen is movable transversely of the direction of compressive movement to a nonuse position.

Subclass: 33 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 32. Devices wherein
the movement is effected by power mechanism.

Subclass: 34 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Devices wherein the platen is moved in both an orbital path about a fixed axis and in a rectilinearly vertical path to effect a smoothing operation.

Subclass: 35 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Devices wherein the movement is effected by power mechanism.

Subclass: 36 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Devices wherein the platen is moved in an orbital path about a fixed axis to effect the pressing action.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 233 for reciprocating platen presses not elsewhere provided for, of the oscillatory or hinged platen or piston type.

Subclass: 37 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Devices wherein the movement is effected by power means.

Subclass: 38 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Devices wherein the power means is an electric motor.

Subclass: 39 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 38. Devices, wherein the platen is moved in two sharply delimited stages. One stage may be personally operated. Both stages may be motor operated either by a pair of electric motors operating successively or by a single electric motor subjected to two different voltages or operating through a linkage which abruptly changes its leverage. The subclass does not include patents wherein the change in leverage is effected solely by reason of the contour of a cam.

Subclass: 40 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Devices wherein the power means is a fluid motor.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
91, Motors: Expansible Chamber Type, appropriate subclasses for expansible chamber motors, per se. Class 91 will take a motor with a nominally claimed load, such as a press platen, but will not take the combination of a motor and cooperating press platens even if the platens are nominally claimed.

Subclass: 41 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Devices wherein the platen is moved in two sharply delimited stages. One stage may be personally operated. Both stages may be motor operated, either by a pair of fluid motors operating successively or by a single fluid motor subjected to two different pressures or operating through a linkage which abruptly changes its leverage. The subclass does not include patents wherein the change in leverage is effected solely by reason of the contour of a cam.

Subclass: 42 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Devices wherein the machine has mechanism for facilitating the movement of the platen element horizontally only. Guiding means to
suspend the platen above the surface of the cooperating platen may be included.

Subclass: 43 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 27. Devices wherein the movable platen element has a vertical movement only.

Subclass: 44 [Patents]

Roller pressers not otherwise specifically provided for herein below.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 155 for roller-type presses of the concurrent pressing and conveying type, not elsewhere provided for.
226, Advancing Material of Indeterminate Length, appropriate subclasses especially subclass 168 for a roller, or roller pair, which advance web or strand material.

Subclass: 45 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Devices wherein there is a reciprocable smoothing element in the organization, i.e., an element that moves back and forth without the intervention of an operator.

Subclass: 46 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Devices wherein the reciprocable smoothing element is solely a roll.

Subclass: 47 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Devices wherein the reciprocable smoothing element is solely a platen or
concave fitting the roll.

Subclass: 48 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Devices wherein four or more roller pressers are arranged with their axes lying in a single plane.

Subclass: 49 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Devices wherein there is a single presser roller having contact with two or more pressing rollers.

Subclass: 50 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 49. Devices wherein one of the rollers is an aproned roll and the textile to be smoothed is wound together with the apron around the roll.

Subclass: 51 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 49. Devices wherein one of the rolls is a textile roll on which the textiles to be smoothed are wound.

Subclass: 52 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Devices wherein the presser roll cooperates with a single other presser roll.

Subclass: 53 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Devices wherein the cooperating pressing roll is a roll about which the textiles are wound, with or without another textile material.

Subclass: 54 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Devices wherein the presser roll cooperates with a plurality of beds, generally arcuate surfaces which conform to the curvature of the roller presser.

Subclass: 55 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Devices wherein there are a plurality of roller pressers as well as a plurality of beds.

Subclass: 56 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Devices wherein the roller presser cooperates with a single bed.

Subclass: 57 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Devices wherein there are a plurality of roller pressers cooperating with a single bed.

Subclass: 58 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Devices wherein the roller presser is moved bodily.

Subclass: 59 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Devices wherein the movement of the roller presser is effected by power means.

Subclass: 60 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Devices wherein the bed is moved bodily.

Subclass: 61 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Devices wherein the movement of the bed is effected by power means.

Subclass: 62 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Devices wherein the roller presser is a roller with an apron adapted to be rolled there-around with the fabric pressed between the convolutions of the apron.

Subclass: 63 [Patents]

Elements of machines of this class not otherwise provided for below.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
492, Roll or Roller, for a roll, per se, not elsewhere provided for, and see the notes thereunder.

Subclass: 64 [Patents]

Tables, aprons or the like to support the work to facilitate the smoothing operation.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
68

Subclass: 66 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Elements involving (1) the structure of platen or bed, (2) covers therefor, or (3) combinations therebetween.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
140 for ironing table covers.
68 for aprons.

Subclass: 67 [Patents]

Strippers for use with machines of this class.

Subclass: 68 [Patents]

Aprons especially adapted for machines of this class.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
64

Subclass: 69 [Patents]

Implements adapted for use for ironing or smoothing textile fabrics.

Subclass: 70 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Devices, of a simple elemental character, which have means to press the fabric combined with means to stretch the same

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
12 and 13, for machines for accomplishing the same results.

Subclass: 71 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Platen presses, involving simple elemental devices for effecting pressure between the platens.
(1) Note. For the most part these patents are structures not supported by legs.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
17 for more complex mechanisms for effecting pressure between the elements.

Subclass: 72 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Devices wherein the platen devices comprise three or more superposed platens.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19 For more complex mechanisms for effecting pressure between the elements.

Subclass: 73 [Patents]

Devices about which textile fabrics are wrapped to smooth the same.

Subclass: 74 [Patents]

Flat irons not otherwise classifiable.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
126, Stoves and Furnaces, subclass 227, 230 and 411; and Class 219, Electric Heating, subclass 245. See Note (8) to the main class definition of this class for a statement of the line.
223, Apparel Apparatus, subclass 35 and 36 for fluting irons.
100, Presses, subclasses 92+ for presses combined with heating, cooling, or drying; and subclass 295 for platens or
pressure surfaces for presses not elsewhere provided for.

Subclass: 75 [Patents]

Flat irons combined with instrumentalities for performing some function other than ironing or smoothing.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 102 for presses not elsewhere provided for and having additional features.

Subclass: 76 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 75. Devices wherein there is a roller in the plane of the pressing face.

Subclass: 77.1 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 75. Device including means for handling or storing a liquid or vapor material in the pressing operation.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for a combined pressing machine having moistening means.
14 for a pressing machine having moistening means.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
68, Textiles: Fluid Treating Apparatus, subclass 5 for a steam applying machine and subclass 222 for a steam applying implement.
100, Presses, subclass 73 for a pressing apparatus, not otherwise provided for, having moistening means.

Subclass: 77.2 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.1. Device having means to indicate, or to provide a visual view of, the quantity of moisture in the flat iron.

Subclass: 77.3 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.1. Device wherein the moisture handling or storing means is capable of being disassociated from the remainder of the flat iron.

Subclass: 77.4 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.1. Device wherein a handle is hingedly connected to the flat iron to expose or cover a filling opening.

Subclass: 77.5 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.1. Device wherein moisture is applied to the fabric in both a liquid and vapor form.

Subclass: 77.6 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.1. Device having means capable of being attached to a moisture supply means and wherein said supply means is not supported by the flat iron.

Subclass: 77.7 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.1. Device having means to control the heat for converting liquid into vapor.

Subclass: 77.8 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.1. Device including a compartment or container for storing liquid prior to its conversion into steam.

Subclass: 77.81 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.8. Device having means to increase atmospheric pressure in the reservoir or means, other than a opening for filling, to connect the reservoir to the atmosphere during filling, emptying or while generating steam.

Subclass: 77.82 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.8. Device wherein the reservoir is provided with a partition for obstructing fluid flow or is composed of a plurality of distinct storage areas.

Subclass: 77.83 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.8. Device wherein the conversion into steam occurs in a compartment other than a liquid storage compartment.

Subclass: 77.9 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 77.1. Device including means for handling moisture which is in the form of a heated vapor.

Subclass: 79 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 75. Devices wherein the flat iron is provided permanently with a support to maintain the ironing surface, when desired, out of contact with the goods being ironed. 96, for supports in the form of
attachments to an iron requiring neither structural modification of the iron, such as drilling or filing, nor other adaptation such as preshaping of any part of the iron to cooperate with the support.

Subclass: 80 [Patents]

Flat irons which have more than one ironing face and which faces may be shifted relative to a handle to present a selected one of them to the work.

Subclass: 81 [Patents]

Flat irons in which a pressing plate is detachable from the body of the iron but in which the iron is incomplete without the plate.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
97 for attachments consisting of sole surfaces attachable to an already complete flat iron.

Subclass: 82 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Devices wherein the flat iron is provided with means to heat the same or to facilitate heating of the same not otherwise provided for.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
126, Stoves and Furnaces, subclass 226 for the construction of means extraneous to a flat iron especially adapted to heat the same; subclass 411 for the construction of a burner within a flat-iron.
219, Electric Heating, subclass 254 for the construction of an electric heating element within a flat iron.

Subclass: 83 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Devices wherein the flat iron is heated by a preheated solid, removably positioned in the iron in heat conducting relationship to the sole plate of the iron.

Subclass: 84 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Devices wherein the flat iron is heated by a hot fluid in the iron.

Subclass: 85 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Devices wherein the flat iron is heated by steam coursing through the iron but not passing through the pressing face thereof.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
77.1 wherein the steam passes through the face of the iron to moisten the fabric.

Subclass: 86 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Devices wherein the body structure is modified so that an auxiliary heating means, such as an open flame playing within the iron, may readily heat the same.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
126, Stoves and Furnaces, subclass 230, for the structure of a burner adapted to be temporarily inserted into a flat iron to heat the same.

Subclass: 87 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Devices wherein the iron is heated by a combustible solid placed within it.

Subclass: 88 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Devices relating
to the general form, shape or materials of which a flat iron is made.

Subclass: 89 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 88. Devices wherein means are provided to heat insulate the body of an iron so as to hinder radiation of heat from the body of the iron.

Subclass: 90 [Patents]

The handle structure of an iron.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
16, Miscellaneous Hardware, subclass 110.1 for handles in general.
403, Joints and Connections, appropriate subclasses for a connection between a tool and a handle wherein only so much of the tool or handle is included as is necessary to effect the connection therebetween.

Subclass: 91 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Devices wherein both the handle and a shell surrounding the body portion of an iron are detachable as a unit from the rest of the iron.

Subclass: 92 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Devices wherein the handle is readily detachable from the iron.

Subclass: 93 [Patents]

The structure of the plate which affords the ironing surface.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
77.9 or a sole plate which is perforated to permit the application of fluid to the work.

Subclass: 94 [Patents]

Attachments for flat irons which are not otherwise provided for.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
223, Apparel Apparatus, subclass 36 for flutting attachments.

Subclass: 95 [Patents]

Hand grips applicable to the handle of a flat iron to heat insulate the hand of an operator from the conductive heat of an iron and shields applicable to an iron to heat insulate the hand of an operator from the radiant heat of an iron.

Subclass: 96 [Patents]

Devices attachable to an iron, without deformation of the structure thereof, for supporting the pressing surface of the iron out of contact with the work, when so desired.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
79 for similar devices forming a part of the iron and not of a readily attachable and detachable character.

Subclass: 97 [Patents]

Sole plates, additional to the sole plate already on a completed flat iron, which may be readily attached or detached from the complete iron.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
81 for a detachable sole plate of a flat iron.

Subclass: 98 [Patents]

Flat irons with weights which may be removed or added at will to vary the total weight of the iron.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
16, Miscellaneous Hardware, subclass 403 for a paper weight; and subclass 404 for other generic weighting means.

Subclass: 99 [Patents]

Smoothing implements with nonplanar, or curved surfaces fixedly mounted so that garments or fabrics may be presented to the same and moved relative thereto to smooth the same. Included in this subclass are the ironers known in the trade as "puffers".

Subclass: 100 [Patents]

Smoothing implements consisting of a roller or rollers.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
492, Roll or Roller, for a roll, per se, not elsewhere provided for, and see the notes thereunder.

Subclass: 101 [Patents]

Where the implement consists of opposite rollers engageable on opposite face of the fabric being smoothed.

Subclass: 102 [Patents]

Devices for smoothing a fabric merely by stretching the same.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
69, Leather Manufactures, subclass 46 for the stretching of leather by racking or rubbing; i.e., by submitting a leather sheet to the force of blows by oscillating or reciprocating rod ends while held in arched configuration (e.g., by the oscillations or reciprocations of a group of spaced rods whose ends define a convex array).

Subclass: 102.1 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Subject matter comprising an apparatus across which a sheet(s) of cloth is to be placed to effect stretching thereof and which is in the
form of (1) a device comprising spaced linear elongated rigid members and means for retaining said members in spaced relation, said members further including means for securing a portion of the cloth thereto (2) a first member which is designed to fit or telescope within a second member (e.g., embroidery hoop) and secure the cloth therebetween or (3) two or more cloth securing elements spaced apart on a base (e.g., spaced pins on a peg board).
(1) Note. The patents found in this and indented subclasses are analogous to but are distinguishable from patents found in Class 160, Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel, subclasses 371 and 382 in that the patents found herein are directed to an apparatus across which a sheet(s) of cloth is temporarily placed to effect stretching thereof, while the patents found in Class 160 are directed to a product of manufacture wherein the sheet (i.e., flexible panel) which is stretched is a permanent component thereof.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
16, Miscellaneous Hardware, subclass 5 for a combined carpet fastener and stretcher.
26, Textiles: Cloth Finishing, subclass 71, for apparatus for stretching a running length web of cloth.
28, Textiles: Manufacturing, subclass 149 for a frame upon which threads are to be stretched and held while being fabricated into a structure by some textile operation.
29, Metal Working, subclass 91.5 for an upholstery making apparatus for drawing or pressing an outer fabric layer onto or about a stuffed or padded furniture component.
34, Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, subclass 618 for the drying of cloth (by heating or the application of a gas) while maintained on a stretching frame.
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), subclass 222 for a building panel having a tensioned or flexed sheet facing.
69, Leather Manufactures, subclass 19.1 for an apparatus for stretching a hide, skin or leather stock.
112, Sewing, subclass 119 for the combination of sewing (quilting) and stretching work on a frame.
160, Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel, subclass 371 for a fabric filled or covered frame or a frame for such use; especially subclass 372 for a device wherein the fabric may be stretched by adjusting the frame size and subclass 378 for a frame-type device including means for applying tension to the fabric therein when not including means for affording mechanical advantage.
223, Apparel Apparatus, subclass 61 for a device for
stretching apparel on forms.
254, Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or Pulling Force, subclass 200 for patents directed to a stretcher for use in forcing a carpet or like covering into place in laying it, when including means for affording mechanical advantage.
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, subclass 8.6 for patents directed to a stretcher for use in forcing a carpet or like covering into place in laying it, when not including means for affording mechanical advantage.

Subclass: 102.2 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102.1. Device comprising an inner frame member of such geometry and/or structure as to fit or telescope within an outer frame member and being adapted to secure at least a portion of the web or sheet of cloth there-between.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
160, Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel, subclass 380 for a flexible, fabric filled or covered frame or a frame for such use wherein the frame is made of two sections, each in the form of a complete frame arranged in superimposed relation and between which a fabric is secured.

Subclass: 102.21 [Patents]

With wound material support:
This subclass is indented under subclass 102.1. Subject matter wherein one of the rigid members is rotatable for winding the sheet of cloth about this member, thereby enabling successive lengths of the sheet to be stretched.
(1) Note. Typically both rigid members are rotatably mounted, so that a length of sheet material is unwound from the first member (supply coil) which is then locked while the second member (take-up coil) is rotated to stretch the sheet material between the members.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, subclasses 538+ for convolute winding combined with unwinding.

Subclass: 102.3 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102.1. Device comprising spaced linear elongated rigid members and means for retaining said members in spaced relation in combination with an additional elongated member extending therebetween to which at least a portion of the sheet of cloth may be attached, another portion of said sheet being attachable to at least one of said spaced elongated rigid members, said additional member being selectively adjustable in the plane of the spaced members.

Subclass: 102.4 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102.1. Device comprising spaced linear elongated members and means for retaining said members in different positions with respect to each other.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
160, Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel, subclass 372 for a flexible fabric filled or covered frame or a frame for such use provided with means for adjusting the frame size.

Subclass: 102.5 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102.4. Device wherein the frame is adjustable with respect to its length as well as with respect to its width.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
160, Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel, subclass 374 for a flexible fabric filled or covered frame or a frame for such use wherein the frame is adjustable both longitudinally and laterally.

Subclass: 102.6 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102.5. Device wherein the adjustment of the device is accomplished by an inter-connection of a pair(s) of adjacent members by means of
an elongated connector secured to a first member and passing through and slidable in an elongated aperture in a second member.

Subclass: 102.7 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102.5. Device wherein the adjustment of the device is accomplished by an interconnection of a pair(s) of adjacent members by means of a securing element capable of applying compression to at least one of the members, said member being selectively movable through or past said element.

Subclass: 102.8 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102.5. Device wherein one or more of the members comprise a plurality of longitudinally interconnected components which may be moved axially relative to each other either by the sliding of the components into or on one another.

Subclass: 102.9 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102.1. Device which may be folded or disassembled to provide a structure of reduced volume.

Subclass: 102.91 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 102.1. Device including means for securing the cloth to the frame.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
24, Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc., appropriate subclasses for a fabric fastening element, per se.
160, Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel, subclass 383 and see the notes thereto for patents directed to a frame side or other elongated element including means for fastening an edge of a fabric thereto.

Subclass: 103 [Patents]

Structures including a board especially configurated or covered to facilitate the smoothing of a fabric when used in conjunction with a flat iron or similar instrumentality.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 295 for platens or pressure surfaces for presses not otherwise provided for.
108, Horizontally Supported Planar Surfaces, appropriate subclasses for horizontal planar surfaces in general.
269, Work Holders, appropriate subclasses. Class 269 is the residual locus for patents to a device for clamping, supporting and/or holding an article (or articles) in position to be operated on or treated. See notes thereunder for other related loci.

Subclass: 104 [Patents]

Ironing tables combined with means for performing functions other than those which facilitate smoothing of a fabric, and not otherwise provided for and wherein each device is capable of having such other function performed upon it or by it at the same time.
(1) Note. For ironing tables combined with cabinets, see Class 312, Supports: Cabinet Structure.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
100, Presses, subclass 102 for presses not elsewhere provided for, and having additional features.

Subclass: 106 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Devices wherein the ironing table is combined with a rack.

Subclass: 107 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Devices wherein
the ironing table is combined with a flat iron support.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
142 for flat iron supports in combination with other devices, adapted to be attached to or rest on an ironing board.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
248, Supports, subclass 117.1, and indented subclasses for flat iron supports adapted to be attached to or rest on an ironing table.

Subclass: 108 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Devices wherein the ironing table is combined with means to clamp the article being smoothed onto the board, or with means to stretch the article over the board, or both.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
12 13 for clamping and stretching devices used in conjunction with a smoothing machine.

Subclass: 109 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Devices wherein, in addition to clamping or stretching devices, some means is provided to hold in shape the neckband of a shirt.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
13 for neckband shapers on a smoothing machine.
110 for other neckband shapers on an ironing board.

Subclass: 110 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Devices wherein an ironing board is provided with means for holding in shape the neckband of a shirt, and shapers themselves when independent of the board but adapted to used in conjunction with the board when a garment is applied to the board.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
13 for neckband shapers on a smoothing machine.
109 for neckband shapers associated with clamping or stretching devices on an ironing board.

Subclass: 111 [Patents]

Wherein an ironing table is equipped with means, other than racks, to support a fabric below the level of the ironing board.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
106 for racks to support a fabric while being smoothed.

Subclass: 112 [Patents]

Wherein an ironing table is convertible into some other instrumentality and wherein the ironing table and the other instrumentality are not available at the same time to perform their respective functions.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 104+ for an ironing table is combined with other instrumentalities and the ironing table and one of the instrumentalities are capable of performing their functions at the same time.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
182, Fire Escape, Ladder, or Scaffold, subclass 29 for a ladder convertible to an ironing board.

Subclass: 135 [Patents]

Ironing tables affording more than one pressing face.

Subclass: 136 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Ironing boards which are invertible for presentation to the iron of any one
of a plurality of pressing surfaces.

Subclass: 137 [Patents]

The structure of an ironing board having a single ironing surface. The "ironing board" may include the board, per se, with its cover.

Subclass: 138 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 137. Devices wherein the ironing board is made up of two or more pieces alineable into one plane.

Subclass: 139 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under subclass 138. Devices wherein the pieces are hinged to each other.

Subclass: 140 [Patents]

Covers for ironing boards or the means for securing the cover in place on the ironing board.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
66 for bed or platen covers.
68 for aprons.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
492, Roll or Roller, subclass 48 for a roll cover, per se, not elsewhere provided for, and see the notes thereunder.

Subclass: 141 [Patents]

Miscellaneous devices accessory to smoothing.

Subclass: 142 [Patents]

Flat iron stands combined with other instrumentalities.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
107 for flat iron stands combined with ironing tables.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
248, Supports, subclass 117.1 for flat iron stands.

Subclass: 143 [Patents]

Devices for shaking out or spreading fabrics preliminary to their being subjected to a smoothing process.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
271, Sheet Feeding or Delivering, subclass 278 for machines for piling sheets.

Subclass: 144 [Patents]

This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes relating to the smoothing and ironing of fabrics, unless otherwise provided for.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
8, Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical Modification of Textiles and Fibers, subclass 137 for general laundering processes which may involve ironing as well as washing.
28, Textiles: Manufacturing, subclass 118 for processes of and apparatus for pressing loose fibers into tampons either with or without the application of heat.
100, Presses, subclass 35 for pressing methods not elsewhere provided for.


Information Products Division -- Contacts

Questions regarding this report should be directed to:

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231

tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov


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Last Modified: 6 October 2000