US20080041279A1

US20080041279A1 - Folding portable table

Info

Publication number: US20080041279A1
Application number: US11/796,067
Authority: US
Inventors: Jerry D. Johnson
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2006-07-06
Filing date: 2007-04-26
Publication date: 2008-02-21

Abstract

A folding table and method for folding the same are provided. The folding table can include a body, a first panel adapted to rotate about a first end of the body, a second panel adapted to rotate about the body; a third panel adapted to rotate about the body; and a fourth panel adapted to rotate about a second end of the body. The first panel can include at least two sections adapted to be supported by a first end of the second and third panels, and a second end of the second and third panels can be adapted to support the fourth panel thereon.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit under 35 USC § 119 of U.S. Provisional Patent Application having Ser. No. 60/818,800 filed on Jul. 6, 2006, which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a table. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to a portable, folding table.
2. Description of the Related Art
Tables for work stations and lecterns have been used and described in the prior art. However, such tables require numerous components or pieces that must be assembled together. Certain tables even require the assistance of a tool or tools to complete the assembly and disassembly, making such tables difficult to use when out on location. Other tables have been proposed that are too heavy, bulky or cumbersome to move by one individual. See, for example, tables or lecterns described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,808,305; 3,034,253; 3,644,011; 5,152,491; 5,224,768; and 5,315,935.
There is a need, therefore, for a table that can be easily assembled and disassembled and that can be easily maneuvered and transferred from one site to another.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A folding table and method for folding the same are provided. In at least one embodiment, the folding table includes a body, a first panel adapted to rotate about a first end of the body, a second panel adapted to rotate about the body; a third panel adapted to rotate about the body; and a fourth panel adapted to rotate about a second end of the body. The first panel can include at least two sections adapted to be supported by a first end of the second and third panels, and a second end of the second and third panels can be adapted to support the fourth panel thereon.
In at least one other embodiment, the folding includes a body, an upper panel disposed on the body, the upper panel comprising a first, second and third section, wherein the first and third sections are adapted to rotate about the second section, and the second section is adapted to rotate about an upper portion of the body. The table also includes a first side panel disposed on the body, a second side panel disposed on the body, and a lower panel disposed on the body. The first side panel is adapted to rotate about a first side of the body, and the second side panel is adapted to rotate about a second side of the body. The lower panel is adapted to rotate about a lower portion of the body.
In at least one embodiment, the method for folding a portable table includes: providing a body having an upper panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, and a lower panel each articulated with the body wherein the upper panel comprises a first, second and third section; folding the first and third sections onto an upper surface of the second section to provide a folded upper panel; folding the folded upper panel onto at least a portion of the body; folding the lower panel onto the folded upper panel; folding the first side panel onto at least a portion of the lower panel; and folding the second side panel onto at least a portion of the lower panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a perspective front view of a table 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments described.

FIG. 2 is a perspective front view of the table 100 showing an outer section of the upper panel rotated to a closed or folded position, and a support member on that folded outer section rotated to its folded or closed position.

FIG. 3 is a perspective front view of the table 100 showing both outer sections of the upper panel rotated to a folded or closed position.

FIG. 4 is a perspective front view of the table 100 showing the upper panel rotated about the upper portion of the body and folded against the body in a closed position.

FIG. 5 is a perspective front view of the table 100 showing the lower panel rotated about a lower portion of the body and folded against the body in a closed position.

FIG. 6 is a perspective front view of the table 100 showing a first side panel rotated about a side of the body to a folded or closed position.

FIG. 6A is a perspective front view of the table 100 showing an alternative embodiment where an upper portion of the side panels are sectioned to provide a level or tapered upper surface.

FIG. 7 is a perspective front view of the table 100 showing a second side panel rotated about a side of the body to a folded or closed position. Both side panels are shown in the folded or closed position.

FIG. 8 is a perspective rear view of the folded table 100.

FIG. 9 is a cross section view of the folded table 100 taken along lines 9-9 of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is a perspective side view of the folded table 100.

FIG. 11 is a perspective bottom view of the table 100 illustrated in a partially closed or partially opened position.

FIG. 12 is a perspective front view of a table 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments described. A first outer section of the upper panel is shown rotated to a closed or folded position, and a support member on that folded outer section is shown rotated to its folded or closed position.

FIG. 13 is a perspective front view of the table 200 showing the outer sections of the upper panel folded, and the lower shelf folded to its closed position.

FIG. 14 is a perspective front view of the table 200 showing the folded upper panel rotated to its closed position on top of the folded lower shelf.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

A detailed description will now be provided. Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the “invention” may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases it will be recognized that references to the “invention” will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims. Each of the inventions will now be described in greater detail below, including specific embodiments, versions and examples, but the inventions are not limited to these embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions, when the information in this patent is combined with available information and technology.
FIG. 1 shows a perspective front view of an illustrative table 100. The table 100 includes a body or frame member 110 having a plurality of panels that are articulated, jointed, or otherwise attached thereto. In one or more embodiments, the body 110 includes a first panel 120, second panel 140, third panel 150, and fourth panel 160. Each of the panels 120, 140, 150 and 160 are disposed on or about the body 110. In one or more embodiments, the first and fourth panels 120, 160 are adapted to swing or rotate about a horizontal axis (i.e. x-coordinate) of the body 110. In one or more embodiments, the second and third panels 120, 140 are adapted to rotate about a vertical axis (i.e. z-coordinate) of the body 110.
The body 110 is a support frame or support member capable of supporting or sustaining the weight of the panels 120, 140, 150 and 160 disposed thereon. In one or more embodiments, the body 110 is a single or monolithic component. In one or more embodiments, the body 110 is fabricated from two or more components. In any one of those embodiments, the body 110 preferably includes a cavity 112 formed therein so as to reduce the overall weight of the table 100 as much as possible and/or to provide access to the fourth panel 160.
Regarding the first panel (“upper panel”) 120 in more detail, the upper panel 120 can be formed into any shape and can have any suitable dimension. For example, the upper panel 120 can be round, square, rectangular or any other curved or polygonal shape. Preferably, the upper panel 120 is a square or rectangle having two pairs of parallel sides (i.e. parallel lengths and parallel widths). The term “length” as used herein refers to the longer side of a rectangle or in the case of a square, the term “length” refers to a side along the x-coordinate depicted in FIG. 1. The term “width” as used herein refers to the shorter side of a rectangle or in the case of a square, the term “width” refers to a side along the y-coordinate as depicted in FIG. 1.
Considering the side panels 140, 150 in more detail, the side panels 140, 150 can be formed into any shape and can have any suitable dimension. For example, the side panels 140, 150 can be round, square, rectangular or any other curved or polygonal shape. Preferably, the side panels 140, 150 are square or rectangular.
In one or more embodiments, the side panels 140, 150 are at least partially attached and adapted to rotate about opposing sides of the body 110 using a joint or device about which the side panels 140, 150 can rotate, swing, or fold. Any joint or device on or about which the outer sections side panels 140, 150 can rotate about the body 110 can be used. Suitable joints or devices for that purpose include one or more hinges or hinge type members. Illustrative hinges and hinge type members include but are not limited to a continuous, piano, butt, gate, blind, T, flap, strap, loose-pin, backflap, hook-and-eye, skew, H, turnover, spring, fast-joint, rising, and sliding. For example, the first side panel 140 can be connected along a first side or left side of the body 110 using a hinge 197, as shown in FIG. 1. Similarly, the second side panel 150 can be connected along a second side or right side of the body 110 using a hinge 197.
As discussed in more detail below, the distance between the first and second panels 140, 150 when situated in parallel is at least slightly greater than the width of the middle section 120B of the second panel 120. Further, the width of the side panels 140, 150 is preferably about half or less than half the length of the fourth panel 160.
Considering the fourth panel (“lower panel”) 160 in more detail, the lower panel 160 can be formed into any shape and can have any suitable dimension. For example, the lower panel 160 can be round, square, rectangular or any other curved or polygonal shape. Preferably, the lower panel 160 is similarly shaped to the middle section 120B of the upper panel 120 discussed in more detail below.
In one or more embodiments, the lower panel 160 is disposed on a lower portion of the body 110. The lower panel 160 is preferably adapted to rotate about a lower portion of the body 110, as shown in FIG. 1. Although the lower panel 160 is shown connected to the body 110 via a hinge 161, any hinge assembly or other joint member as described can be used.
When rotated to its lowered or assembled position, the lower panel 160 serves as a brace or support member for the side panels 140, 150. The lower panel 160 also serves as a shelf or other flat surface for holding accessories or other items during use of the table 100. In another embodiment, the lower panel 160 can include a cut-out (not shown) along a front edge thereof to make room for the legs or feet of the user seated adjacent the table 100.
In one or more embodiments, the side panels 140, 150 can include one or more support members 145, 155 disposed at a lower portion thereof. The support members 145, 155 are adapted to support or hold the weight of the lower panel 160 when the lower panel 160 is extended from the body 110 (i.e. in the lowered or assembled position). The support members 145, 155 are also adapted to support or hold any weight stored or housed on an upper surface of the lower panel 160.
In one or more embodiments above or elsewhere herein, the side panels 140, 150 can include one or more wheels or casters 165 for moving/transporting the table 100. The wheels 165 can be directly mounted to a lower surface of the side panels 140, 150. Alternatively, the side panels 140, 150 can include one more extensions 147, 157 that protrude from an inner surface thereof. Preferably, the one or more extensions 147, 157 are located at lower portion of a side panel 140, 150, beneath the lower panel 160 so as not to interfere with the rotation of the lower panel 160. The extensions 147, 157 can provide a surface for which the one or more wheels or casters 165 can be mounted.
Referring again to the first panel 120, the first panel 120 includes a plurality of sections. A first section 120A, a second section 120B, and a third section 120C are shown. Each section 120A, 120B, 120C can be round, square, rectangular or any other curved or polygonal shape. The sections 120A, 120B, 120C can be of similar size and shape. Alternatively, the sections 120A, 120B, 120C can be shaped and/or sized independent of one another, depending on the end-use needs and applications.
In one or more embodiments, the first and third sections 120A and 120C (“outer sections”) are disposed on opposing sides of the second section 120B (“middle section”). As shown in FIG. 1, the middle section 120B is preferably a rectangular component, and the outer sections 120A, 120C are preferably squared components. In one or more embodiments, the outer corners of the sections 120A, 120C are chamfered, rounded or curved to eliminate sharp corners. Preferably, each of the outer sections 120A and 120C are sized to have at least one side in common with the adjoining side of the middle section 120B, as shown in FIG. 1.
In one or more embodiments, the outer sections 120A, 120C are joined or articulated about the middle section 120B. The first, outer section 120A and the middle 120B can be joined using a hinge assembly or other joint member as described, on which the outer section 120A can rotate, swing or fold in relation to the middle section 120B. Likewise, the middle section 120B and the second, outer section 120C can be joined using a hinge assembly or other joint member as described on which the outer section 120C can rotate, swing or fold in relation to the middle section 120B. The hinge assemblies or joint members between the outer sections 120A, 120C and the middle section 120B are not shown in this view.
The middle section 120B is preferably disposed on an upper portion of the body 110. Preferably, the upper panel 120 can rotate about the body 110 via a connection between the middle section 120B and the upper portion of the body 110. Although not shown in this view, any hinge assembly or other joint member described can be used for that connection.
In one or more embodiments, each outer section 120A, 120C includes at least one support member (“wings”) 185A, 185B disposed on a lower surface thereof. The first support member 185A is adapted to rotate about the lower surface of the first, outer section 120A, and the second support member 185B is adapted to rotate about the lower surface of the second, outer section 120C. Any hinge assembly or other joint member described can be used.
Preferably, each support member 185A, 185B is located about the lower surfaces of sections 120A, 120C so that each support member 185A, 185B can contact an outer surface of the second or third panel 140, 150. The support members 185A, 185B are adapted to contact an outer surface of the panels 140, 150, and hold the weight of the supported sections 120A, 120C and other weight disposed thereon. In one or more embodiments, the support members 185A, 185B are wedged or sloped as shown in FIG. 1 to reduce the weight of the component and also to facilitate articulation about its attached outer section 120A or 120C.
FIG. 2 is provided to better illustrate the movement and operation of the various components and panels making up the table 100. FIG. 2, for example, shows a perspective view of the front side of the table 100 having the first section 120A of the upper panel 120 in a folded or “closed” position and the third section 120C of the upper panel 120 in an unfolded or “open” position. As shown, the first section 120A of the upper panel 120 is rotated/folded about a first side of the middle section 120B and laid to rest on at least a portion of the upper surface of the middle section 120B. The first support member 185A is also rotated/folded and laid to rest on at least a portion of the backside (i.e. lower surface) of the first section 120A. The second support member 185B remains in contact with the side of the second side panel 150, supporting the third section 120C in the open position.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective front view of the table 100 where the first and third sections 120A, 120C of the first (“upper”) panel 120 have been rotated to a folded or closed position. As shown, both the first and third sections 120A, 120C are laid to rest on the upper surface of the middle section 120B, and the support members 185A and 185B are folded on the respective side panel 140, 150. The upper panel 120 is now in a closed or folded position, and can be rotated about the upper portion of the body 110 as shown in FIG. 4.
FIG. 4 shows a perspective front view of the table 100 where the upper panel 120 has been rotated about the upper portion of the body 110 and folded to rest against the body 110. As shown, both of the support members 185A, 185B are folded or rotated about their joints and hang vertically downward due to the force of gravity. As mentioned above, one or both of the support members 185A, 185B can be sloped or tapered as shown. Preferably, the perpendicular sides of the tapered components 185A, 185B about the adjoining surfaces (e.g. 120A to 140 and/or 120B to 150).
The joint or hinge (not shown) about which the middle section 120B of the upper panel 120 is rotated bears the weight of the folded upper panel 120. As shown, the length along the x-coordinate of the folded upper panel 120 is less than the distance between the two side panels 140, 150. Accordingly, the folded upper panel 120 can fold or rotate between the side panels 140, 150. The width of the folded upper panel 120 should be just enough to have clearance between the side panels 140, 150 so that the folded upper panel 120 can rotate freely therebetween.
In one or more embodiments above or elsewhere herein, at least one back side of either the first section 120A or the third section 120C can include a connector 162A such as a magnet to connect to a mating or matching connector 162B disposed on a front edge of the lower panel 160. The lower panel 160 can be rotated about the lower portion of the body 110 and then held into place by the matching connectors 162A, 162B, as shown in FIG. 5.
FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the table 100 where the lower panel 160 has been rotated about the lower portion of the body 110. As shown, the lower panel 160 folds onto at least a portion of the folded upper panel 120 into a folded or closed position. The length and width of the lower panel 160 can vary in size. Preferably, the width along the y-coordinate of the lower panel 160 is the same or less than the width of the upper panel 120 so that the lower panel 160 does not extend beyond the upper end of the folded upper panel 120 when folded as shown in FIG. 5. Like the folded upper panel 120, the length of the lower panel 160 is preferably less than the distance between the side panels 140, 150 with enough clearance to freely rotate therebetween.
In one or more embodiments, the support members 145, 155 can include one more fasteners 145A, 145B disposed thereon for connecting to a lower surface of the lower panel 160. The fasteners 145A, 145B (shown in FIG. 5) can include a hook or a pin to engage the lower panel 160, thereby holding the side panels 140, 150 to the lower panel 160. During use of the table 100, a downward force exerted on the upper panel 120 can translate to the side panels 140, 150 causing the side panels 140, 150 to rotate outward from the body 110. The support members 185A, 185B disposed on the upper panel 120 prevent such an outward rotation at an upper portion of the side panels 140, 150, while the fasteners 145A, 145B can be used at a lower portion of the side panels 140, 150 to prevent the outward rotation and thereby, provide better balance and stabilization to the table 100.
FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the table 100 where the side panel 150 is rotated about its joint located on a first side of the body 110 to a folded or closed position. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the table 100 where the side panel 140 is rotated about its joint located on a second side of the body 110 to a folded or closed position. As shown in FIG. 7, the table 100 is now in a folded or closed position, and can be easily moved or transferred from location to another.
Still referring to FIG. 7, the table 100 can include a handle, strap, or other device for carrying or lifting the table 100. The table 100 is shown having a handle 182. The table 100 can further include one or more latch mechanisms (two are shown 194A, 194B) to lock and hold the side panels 140, 150 in the closed position. As such, the table 100 remains in a locked, folded position.
In one or more embodiments above or elsewhere herein, the upper ends 141, 151 of the side panels 140, 150 can be sloped or tapered as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. Although not shown, the sloped or tapered upper ends 141, 151 allow the upper panel 120 to slant or decline at an angle complimentary to the slope of the ends 141, 151. As such, the upper surface of the upper panel 120 can be used as a lectern for holding papers or as a contractor's table for supporting and holding plans, plots or other architecture/construction type drawings.
FIG. 6A is a perspective front view of the table 100 showing an alternative embodiment where an upper portion of the side panels are sectioned to provide a level or tapered upper surface. As shown, the upper portions of the side panels 140, 150 can be sectioned to provide a tapered member 141A, 141B. The tapered members 141A, 141B can be jointed or articulated with the main portion of the side panels 140, 150 so that the tapered members 141A, 141B can be folded or rotated about the side panels 140, 150. The tapered members 141A, 141B are shown jointed to the side panels 140, 150 via hinges 1541B, 151B.
The angle of the sloped surface of the tapered members 141A, 141B can vary, depending on preference of the user and/or end-uses of the table 100. As such, the tapered members 141A, 141B can provide the table 100 with a level or slanted upper surface from which to work. In other words, the upper surface of the side panels 140, 150 in contact with the upper panel 120 can be a level or horizontal surface when contacted with the upper surface of the tapered member 141A, 141B, or the upper surface of the side panels 140, 150 in contact with the upper panel 120 can be a tapered surface that corresponds to the sloped surfaces of the tapered member s141A, 141B, depending on whether the tapered member s141A, 141B are folded in a closed position along the inner surface of the side panels 140, 150 or extended in an open position as shown in FIG. 6A.
FIG. 8 shows a perspective rear view of the folded table 100. In one or more embodiments, the table 100 can include a fifth panel (“rear panel”) 170 to cover the cavity 112 within the body 110. The rear panel 170 is preferably made of a thin, light weight material since strength is not a requirement for its purpose. The rear panel 170 is preferably perforated such as a “peg-board” to store or hold one or more accessories or papers during use of the table 100.
Illustrative accessories include but are not limited to cup holders, electrical power strips, extension cords, phone cords, phone jacks, wire holders, wire conduits, and foldable chairs, benches or the like. Such accessories can also be disposed on any one or more of the panels 120, 140, 150, 160, depending on the preference of the user. In one or more embodiments, any one of the panels described can include one or more holes or apertures formed therethrough to run wires.
FIG. 9 shows a cross section of the folded table 100 taken along lines 9-9 in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 9, the first section 120A and the third section 120C are rotated about the middle section 120B of the upper panel 120. The folded upper panel 120 is then rotated about a hinge 196 that is articulated with an upper portion of the body 110. The folded upper panel 120 is rotated to rest against a front side of the body 110. The lower panel 160 is then rotated about its hinge 161 (not shown in this view) that is articulated with a lower portion of the body 110. The lower panel 160 is rotated to rest against the folded upper panel 120. The side panels 140, 150 are then rotated about hinges 197 (shown in FIG. 1) that are articulated with the sides of the body 110. The latches 194A, 194B can then be locked to hold the folded table 100 in the closed or folded position.
FIG. 10 shows a perspective side view of the folded table 100. FIG. 11 shows a perspective bottom view of the table 100 in a partially closed position. Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, two wheels or casters 165A, 165B can be disposed on a bottom surface of the extensions 147, 157 that are disposed on the side panels 140, 150, and two wheels or casters 165C, 165D can be disposed on a bottom surface of the body 110. Such distribution of the casters 165A-D provides balance and stability to the table 100 when folded so that the folded table 100 can stand and balance by itself as shown in FIG. 10.
In another embodiment, the table 100 can include one or more folding or telescoping legs (not shown) to adjust the height of the table 100. Preferably, the table 100 includes two legs attached to each extension 147, 157. Alternatively, two legs can be attached to the bottom surface of the body 110, and two legs can be attached to the bottom surface of the extensions 147, 157. Any other arrangement of legs that provide a steady and stabile work surface can be used.
To unfold the folded table 100, the reverse steps described above for folding the table 100 are performed. For example, the latches 194A, 194B, if used, are first unlocked. The side panels 140, 150 are rotated, sequentially or simultaneously, outward from the body 110 to the open position as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. The lower panel 160 is then rotated away from the body 100 to the open position and laid to rest on the support guides 145, 155, as shown in FIG. 4. The folded upper panel 120 is then rotated away from the body 110 as shown in FIG. 3. Finally, the two outer sections 120A, 120C of the upper panel 120 are rotated, sequentially or simultaneously, away from the middle section 120B, allowing the support members 185A, 185B to drop or rotate downward due to gravity. The unfolded upper panel 120 is then lowered or adjusted relative to the body 10 until the support members 185A, 185B engage and rest against the sides of the body 110. The table 100 is now in an open or ready to use position.
FIGS. 12-14 show an alternative embodiment of a table 200 where the lower panel 160 folds before the upper panel 120. Referring to FIG. 12, the upper panel 120 folds as described above with reference to table 100. The lower panel 160 then rotates and folds against the body 110 or back panel 170, if provided. As mentioned above, the lower panel 160 can include a latch mechanism 162B such as magnetized member to engage or latch with a mating latch mechanism 162A. Except here, the second latch mechanism 162A is disposed on the rear panel 170 since the lower panel 160 rotates into a folded position before the upper panel 120.
Still referring to FIG. 14, the folded upper panel 120 is then rotated about the body 110 and folded onto an outer or lower surface of the lower panel 160. The side panels 140, 150 can then be rotated and folded onto the lower panel 160 and locked into place.
Any suitable material for construction of the individual components (i.e. body, support members and panels) can be used. Such suitable materials include but are not limited to any one or more metals (such as aluminum, steel, stainless steel, brass, nickel), fiberglass, wood, composite materials (such as ceramics, wood/polymer blends, cloth/polymer blends, etc.), and plastics (such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, polyethylethylketone (PEEK), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide resins (such as nylon 6 (N6), nylon 66 (N66)), polyester resins (such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene isophthalate (PEI), PET/PEI copolymer) polynitrile resins (such as polyacrylonitrile (PAN), polymethacrylonitrile, acrylonitrile-styrene copolymers (AS), methacrylonitrile-styrene copolymers, methacrylonitrile-styrene-butadiene copolymers; and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)), polymethacrylate resins (such as polymethyl methacrylate and polyethylacrylate), cellulose resins (such as cellulose acetate and cellulose acetate butyrate); polyimide resins (such as aromatic polyimides), polycarbonates (PC), elastomers (such as ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR), ethylene propylene-diene monomer rubber (EPDM), styrenic block copolymers (SBC), polyisobutylene (PIB), butyl rubber, neoprene rubber, halobutyl rubber and the like)), and mixtures, blends, or copolymers of any and all of the foregoing materials.
A preferred material is lightweight and provides the necessary strength and rigidity for the various end-uses of the table 100, 200. Any one of the components, especially the body 110 and panels 120, 140, 150, 160, are preferably constructed from aluminum. More preferably, the components are constructed from diamond tread plate. In one or more embodiments, the components can have a thickness ranging from a low of about 0.05 inches, 0.063 inches, or 0.100 inches to a high of about 0.125 inches, 0.188 inches, or 0.25 inches.
Illustrative end-uses of the table 100, 200 include but are not limited to a contractor table, drafting table, work station, desk, credenza, kiosk, serving table, dining table, storage table, arts and crafts table, and recreation table. Illustrative remote sites for using such table 100, 200 include but are not limited to a job site, office, store, retail space, classroom, beach, pool, garage, etc.
In one or more embodiments above or elsewhere herein, any one or more of the body 110, panels 120, 140, 150, 160 and support members 145, 155, 185A, 185B can be hollow or at least partially hollow to reduce the weight of the component. In one or more embodiments above or elsewhere herein, any one or more of the body 110, panels 120, 140, 150, 160 and support members 145, 155, 185A, 185B can have varying cross-sectional thicknesses to reduce the weight of the component. Reducing the weight of any individual component will reduce the overall weight of the table 100, 200, which can increase its portability and ease of maneuverability.
In one or more embodiments above or elsewhere herein, any one or more of the body 110, panels 120, 140, 150, 160 and support members 185A, 185B can be injection molded and connected as described via a living hinge (not shown). Each of the components 110, 120, 140, 150, 160, 185A, 185B can be injection molded from one or more polymers described herein, using conventional injection molding techniques, including multi-material or multi-shot injection molding techniques. Multi-material or multi-shot injection molding techniques allow multiple materials to be injection molded into a single or multiple cavity mold. Any suitable multi-material injection molding machine can be used. Additional processing techniques can be used such as multiple cavity tools, insert molding, movable core sections, and gas/water assist, to manipulate the strength, rigidity and weight of the integrated components. The living hinge can be adapted to rotate the articulated components from “open” and “closed” positions. The design and implementation of living hinges are well known.
Certain embodiments and features have been described using a set of numerical upper limits and a set of numerical lower limits. It should be appreciated that ranges from any lower limit to any upper limit are contemplated unless otherwise indicated. Certain lower limits, upper limits and ranges appear in one or more claims below. All numerical values are “about” or “approximately” the indicated value, and take into account experimental error and variations that would be expected by a person having ordinary skill in the art.
Various terms have been defined above. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined above, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in at least one printed publication or issued patent. Furthermore, all patents, test procedures, and other documents cited in this application are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such disclosure is not inconsistent with this application and for all jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted.
While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A folding table, comprising

a body;

a first panel adapted to rotate about a first end of the body,

a second panel adapted to rotate about the body;

a third panel adapted to rotate about the body; and

a fourth panel adapted to rotate about a second end of the body;

wherein the first panel comprises at least two sections adapted to be supported by a first end of the second and third panels, and a second end of the second and third panels is adapted to support the fourth panel thereon.

2. The table of claim 1, wherein each of the at least two sections of the first panel comprises an articulating support member disposed thereon, the articulating support members adapted to rest against the second or third panel.

3. The table of claim 1, wherein the second and third panels each comprise a support member disposed at a lower portion thereof, the support members adapted to hold the fourth panel when the fourth shelf is extended from the body.

4. The table of claim 3, wherein the support members disposed on the second and third panels comprise one or more guides or rails adapted to engage the fourth panel.

5. The table of claim 3, wherein the support members disposed on the second and third panels comprise one or more pins adapted to engage the fourth panel.

6. The table of claim 1, further comprising one or more means for transporting the table.

7. The table of claim 1, further comprising two or more wheels disposed on the body.

8. The table of claim 1, wherein the second and third panels each comprise one or more wheels disposed thereon.

9. The table of claim 1, further comprising one or more means for carrying the table.

10. The table of claim 1, further comprising a fifth panel disposed on a backside of the body.

11. The table of claim 10, wherein the fifth panel comprises a plurality of holes for holding or storing accessories.

12. A folding table, comprising:

a body;

an upper panel disposed on the body, the upper panel comprising a first, second and third section, wherein the first and third sections are adapted to rotate about the second section, and the second section is adapted to rotate about an upper portion of the body;

a first side panel disposed on the body, the first side panel adapted to rotate about a first side of the body;

a second side panel disposed on the body, the second side panel adapted to rotate about a second side of the body; and

a lower panel disposed on the body, the lower panel adapted to rotate about a lower portion of the body.

13. The table of claim 12, wherein the second and third sections of the upper panel each comprise an articulating support member disposed thereon, the articulating support members adapted to rest on an upper end of the first and second side panels.

14. The table of claim 12, wherein the first and second side panels each comprise a support member disposed at a lower portion thereof, the support members adapted to hold the lower panel when the lower panel is extended from the body.

15. The table of claim 12, further comprising one or more means for transporting the table.

16. The table of claim 12, further comprising one or more means for carrying the table.

17. The table of claim 12, further comprising a fifth panel disposed on the body, wherein the fifth panel comprises a plurality of holes for holding or storing accessories.

18. A method for folding a portable table, comprising:

providing a body having an upper panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, and a lower panel each articulated with the body wherein the upper panel comprises a first, second and third section;

folding the first and third sections onto an upper surface of the second section to provide a folded upper panel;

folding the folded upper panel onto at least a portion of the body;

folding the lower panel onto the folded upper panel;

folding the first side panel onto at least a portion of the lower panel; and

folding the second side panel onto at least a portion of the lower panel.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein outer ends of the first and third sections are adjacent to one another when the first and third section are folded onto the second section.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising fastening the first and second side panels to one another.