Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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PERSONAL TABLE
Cross-Reference to Related Applications
[001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of United States
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/347,556, filed January 9, 2002
and
entitled PERSONAL TABLE; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No.
60/364,712, filed March 14, 2002 and entitled PERSONAL TABLE; U.S. Design
Patent Application Serial No. 29/167,624, filed September 18, 2002 and
entitled
TABLE LEG; U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/167,628, filed
September 18, 2002 and entitled TABLE TOP; U.S. Design Patent Application
Serial No. 29/167,611, filed September 18, 2002 and entitled TABLE TOP; and
U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/421,221, filed October 25, 2002
and
entitled PERSONAL TABLE. Each of these applications are expressly incorporated
by reference in their entireties.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[002] The present invention generally relates to tables and, in particular, to
a
light-weight table that may be adjustable in height and may have legs that can
be
collapsed into a storage position.
Description of Related Art
[003] Conventional tables are used for a variety of purposes and come in a
wide array of designs. In some situations, it is desirable to have a smaller
table for
personal or individual use. For example, persons living in a small space, such
as a
studio apartment, may choose to use a smaller personal-sized table on which to
dine
or perform other tasks. Other persons may use a personal table to. place
beside a
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chair for the convenience of holding objects while reading, watching
television or
listening to the radio. Still others may use personal tables to perform tasks
such as
writing, working, or using a computer.
[004] Conventional tables often include table tops constructed from wood,
particle board or metal. Table tops constructed from wood, particle board or
metal,
however, are often relatively heavy and this may make the table awkward or
di~cult to move. Conventional table tops constructed from wood or metal are
also
relatively expensive and the table tops must generally be treated or finished
before
use. For example, table tops constructed from wood must generally be sanded
and
painted, and metal table tops must be formed into the desired shape and
painted. In
addition, these relatively heavy table tops increase the cost of
transportation,
shipping, and storage of the tables.
[005] In order to decrease the weight of conventional tables, table tops can
be
constructed from relatively thin, light-weight materials. Disadvantageously,
these
light-weight table tops frequently require reinforcing members or other
structural
parts such as frames, railings, brackets and the like to strengthen the table
top.
These. additional parts may increase the strength of the table top, but these
additional
parts also increase the weight of the table. In addition, these additional
parts
increase manufacturing costs and require additional time to assemble the
table.
Furthermore, these additional parts may have sharp edges that can injure the
user's
legs, arms or other body parts.
[006] Known tables may also allow the height of the table to be adjusted to
suit
the needs of the user. For example, the length of the table legs may be
increased or
decreased by a telescoping assembly. Disadvantageously, because the
telescoping
assemblies include overlapping components, the assembly is relatively heavy.
Additionally, conventional tables may use other mechanisms to allow the height
of
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the table to be adjusted, but these devices are often relatively complex and
require
additional parts, which increases the costs to manufacture and assemble the
table.
These complex designs may also result in tables that are relatively difficult
to use.
[007] Another type of known table is a traditional card table in which each
leg
is pivotally connected to the table top by a brace and each leg individually
folds
against the table top. Known tables may attempt to reduce the inconvenience of
individually folding legs against the table top by coupling two of the legs
together
by a long connecting rod. This may increase the stability of the table top and
enable
the user to simultaneously fold two legs into the collapsed position. The
connecting
rods, however, increase the cost of the table, reduce space under the table
top, and
may easily break or become disconnected.
[008] Conventional tables may also detachably connect the legs to the table
top
to allow the user to more easily collapse, move and store the table.
Disadvantageously, the detachable legs often create a table that is not sturdy
or
stable. Additionally, moving a table with this type of attachment when the
legs are
still attached is often difficult because the legs may undesirably detach.
These
known types of table may include an attachment that mechanically secures the
leg to
the table top. These mechanical attachments, such as plastic or metal clips or
brackets, often break or are otherwise damaged. Further, attachment of these
devices to the table top may structurally weaken the table top, which may
allow the
table to unexpectedly fail. Further, attaching the four separate attachment
mechanisms to the table top by fasteners such as screws or bolts may
undesirably
weaken the table top.
[009] Many conventional tables include four legs in order to support the table
top above a surface such as the floor. The four separate legs, however,
increase the
weight of the table. In additional, the four legs require four separate
attachment
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mechanisms to attach the legs to the table top, which increases the cost and
complexity of the table.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[010] A need exists for a table that eliminates the above-described
disadvantages and problems.
[011] One aspect of the present invention is a relatively small-sized table
that is
designed for use by a single person. This type of table that is intended for
use by an
individual is referred to as a personal table, but it will be appreciated that
more than
one person could use the table if desired. Advantageously, the personal table
is
relatively small and light-weight, which makes the table easy to move and
transport.
Significantly, because the table is sized and configured for personal use, it
does not
take up unnecessary space or provide a large amount of unused space.
Therefore,
the personal table provides ample space for a single user without requiring a
large
area or wasting unnecessary space.
(012] Another aspect of the personal table is it can be used for a wide
variety of
different situations and uses such as a table for supporting a television,
computer,
sewing machine, microwave, lamp, luggage, and the like. The table can also be
used
for a wide variety of other uses such as a bedside table, coffee table, night
stand,
desk, shop table, and the like. Further, the table can be used while
performing a
wide variety of tasks such as reading, writing, studying, working, etc. Thus,
the
personal table can be used in a number of different environments and it can
perform
numerous different tasks.
[013] Yet another aspect of the personal table is the height of the table can
be
readily adjusted. Advantageously, the adjustable height table allows it to be
used for
many different purposes, such as those discussed above.
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[014] A further aspect of the personal table is the table top is support by a
single pair of legs. The legs are preferably pivotally connected and the legs
preferably allow the height of the table top to be easily adjusted.
Significantly,
because the table top is support by a single pair of legs, that provides
additional leg
room andlor storage room under the table. In addition, the single pair of legs
is
light-weight and easily attached to the table top. The single pair of legs can
desirably support the table top and suitable objects placed on the personal
table.
Advantageously, because the personal table has a relatively small size, the
single
pair of legs can properly support the table.
[015] A still further aspect of the personal table is the legs are preferably
movable between a use position and a storage position. The legs preferably
extend
outwardly from the table top in the use position and the legs support the
table top
above a surface such as the floor. In the storage position, the legs are
preferably
collapsed into a relatively compact area, which allows the table to be easily
transported or stored. The legs, for example, may be placed adjacent andlor
proximate to the bottom surface of the table top in the collapsed position.
[016] Another aspect of the personal table is the table top is preferably
constructed from a lightweight material so that the table is easily portable
and can be
readily lifted and moved by a single person. Desirably, the table top is
constructed
from blow-molded plastic, such as high density polyethylene. The blow-molded
plastic table top provides a rigid, high-strength structure that is capable of
withstanding repeated use and wear. Advantageously, the blow-molded table top
can be easily manufactured and formed into the desired size and shape. In
addition,
the blow-molded table top can form a structural component of the table to
minimize
the number of components and size of the table. Thus, frames, braces or other
support members are not required to support the table top.
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[017] Yet another aspect of the personal table is the legs can be attached to
recesses and/or grooves formed in the table top. In particular, the legs are
preferably
attached to the table top by a snap, interference or friction fit. This
connection of the
legs to the table top may also allow the legs to be selectively removed or
detached
from the table top. Advantageously, because the legs do not require any
fasteners or
other structures to be connected to the table top, no stress points or other
types of
weakness are formed in the table top. Thus, the strength and rigidity of the
table top
is not decreased by forming holes or inserting fasteners into the table top.
The legs
may also be pivotally or slidably attached to the table top.
[018] One aspect of the personal table is both legs may be removably attached
to the table top. This allows the legs to be easily removed for transportation
and/or
storage. In addition, the removal of both legs may allow the height of the
table to be
easily adjusted by attaching the legs to different grooves or recess in the
table top.
One of the legs, however, may be permanently or more securely attached to the
table
top, and the other leg may be more easily attached or detached from the table
top.
Thus, the selectively detachable leg may be detached from the table top when
the
height of the table is desired to be adjusted and/or the table is desired to
be moved or
stored. Of course, both of the legs may be easily detached from the table top,
but
only one of the legs may be detached to allow, for example, the height of the
table to
be adjusted or to move the legs into a collapsed position.
[019] A further aspect of the personal table is the pair of legs are
preferably
pivotally connected by a pin, bolt or screw into a generally X-shaped
configuration.
The pivotal connection advantageously allows the legs to be quickly moved
between
the storage and use positions. The pivotal connection also allows the height
of the
table to be readily adjusted. Desirably, each leg includes a lower portion
that
contacts a support surface such as the floor, a body portion, and an upper
portion
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that is sized and configured to be connected to the table top. The body
portion of
each of the legs may include two support members, which helps prevent twisting
or
undesirable torque on the connection of the upper and lower portions to the
elongated body portion.
[020] Another aspect of the personal table is the legs can be attached to the
table top via double hinge members. Advantageously, the legs can be pivotally
attached by the double hinge members to the table top to allow the height of
the
table top to be adjusted. In particular, the double hinge members are
preferably
movable between different positions and that allows the height of the table
top to be
changed. The legs can also be slidably attached to the table top and a ratchet
assembly may be used to selectively adjust the height of the table top.
[021] A further aspect of the personal table is the legs are preferably offset
towards one side of the table top. Advantageously, because the legs are not
placed
in the center of the table, that provides enhanced legroom for the user. This
also
allows the table top to be positioned closer 'to the body of the user, which
may be
more convenient for the. user.
[022] Advantageously, the personal table is relatively simple to manufacture
because it preferably consists of a table top constructed from blow-molded
plastic
and a pair of pivotally interconnected legs. The blow-molded table top
includes two
opposing walls that are spaced apart, which increase the strength and rigidity
of the
table top. The blow-molded table top may also include one or more depressions
or
tack-offs to further increase the strength of the table top and/or
interconnect the
spaced apart walls. Significantly, a blow-molded table top is light-weight,
durable,
generally weather resistant and temperature insensitive, and it does not
corrode, rust
or otherwise deteriorate. The blow-molded table top can also be formed in
various
shapes, sizes, configurations and designs.
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[023] Additionally, the personal table is easy to assemble, which reduces
manufacturing and labor costs. Further, the consumer can easily assemble the
personal table and the consumer will appreciate many of the aspects of the
personal
table such as the light-weight, easy height adjustment, portability,
sturdiness, and
wide variety of uses in any different environments.
[024] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present
invention
will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description of
preferred
embodiments and appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[025] The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments to
further clarify the above and other aspects, advantages and features of the
present
invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict only preferred
embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limits its scope. The
invention
will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through
the use
of the accompanying drawings in which:
[026] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a personal table in accordance
with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[027] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the personal table shown in
Figure
1;
[028] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of a portion of the personal table
shown in Figure 1, illustrating the support legs in an extended position;
[029] Figure 4 is a front view of the support legs shown in Figure 3,
illustrating
the legs in an extended position and a collapsed position;
[030] Figure 5 is a top view of the support legs shown in Figure 3;
[031] Figure 6 is a right side view of the support legs shown in Figure 3;
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[032] Figure 7 is a front perspective view of a personal table in accordance
with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the
body
portion of the support legs with a single support member;
[033] Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of a personal table in accordance
with
yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[034] Figure 9 is a rear perspective view of the personal table shown in
Figure
8, illustrating the support legs in a reversed position;
[035] Figure 10 is a top view of a potion of the personal table shown in
Figure
1, illustrating the table top;
[036] Figure 11 is a front view of the portion of the personal table shown in
Figure 10;
[037] Figure 12 is a rear view of the portion of the personal table shown in
Figure 10;
[038] Figure 13 is a bottom perspective view of the portion of the personal
table shown in Figure 10;.
[039] Figure 14 is right side view of the portion of the personal table shown
in
Figure 10;
[040] Figure 15 is a left side view of the portion of the personal table shown
in
Figure 10;
[041] Figure 16 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a personal table
in
accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[042] Figure 17 is a bottom perspective view of the personal table shown in
Figure 16, illustrating the support legs attached to the bottom surface of the
table top
and in an extended position;
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[043] Figure 18 is a bottom perspective view of the personal table shown in
Figure 16, illustrating the support legs attached to the bottom surface of the
table top
and in a collapsed position;
[044] Figure 19 is a bottom perspective view of a personal table in accordance
with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[045] Figure 20 is a bottom perspective view of a personal table in accordance
with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating
the
support legs in a collapsed position;
[046] Figure 21 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of a portion of the
personal table shown in Figure 20;
[047] Figure 22 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a personal table
in
accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[048] Figure 23 is a partial schematic side view of a portion of the personal
table shown in Figure 22;
[049] Figure 24 is a partial schematic side view of a portion of the personal
table shown in Figure 22;
[050] Figure 25 is a partial schematic side view of a portion of the personal
table shown in Figure 22;
[051] Figure 26 is a partial schematic side view of a portion of the personal
table shown in Figure 22;
[052] Figure 27 is a bottom view of a personal table in accordance with yet
another preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating a ratchet
assembly in a first position; and
[053] Figure 28 is a bottom view of the personal table shown in Figure 27,
illustrating the ratchet assembly in a second position.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[054] The present invention is directed towards a table and, in particular, to
a
table that is intended to be used by a single user at one time. The principles
of the
present invention, however, are not limited to a table intended for use by an
individual user. It will be understood that, in light of the present
disclosure, the
table can be used by more than one user at any given time.
[055] Additionally, to assist in the description of the table, words such as
top,
bottom, front, rear, right and left are used to describe the accompanying
figures. It will
be appreciated, however, that the table can be located in a variety of desired
positions--
including various angles, sideways and even upside down. A detailed
description of
the table now follows.
[056] As seen in Figure 1, an exemplary table 10 is shown. The table 10 is
preferably a relatively small-sized table that is intended for use by a single
person at
one time. Advantageously, because the table 10 is sized and configured for
personal
use, it does not require a large amount of space. Therefore, the table 10
provides
ample space for a single user without requiring a large area or unnecessary
space.
This table 10 that is sized and configured for use by a single person is
referred to as
a personal table.
[057] The personal table 10 includes a table top 12 and a support assembly 14
that is used to support the table top above a surface such as the floor or
ground. The
table top 12 includes a top surface 16, a bottom surface 18, a front side 20,
a rear
side 22, a right side 24 and a left side 26. The table top 12 may also include
a
beveled, sloped or rounded surface 28 disposed between the top surface 16 and
one
or more of the sides 20, 22, 24 and 26. The beveled surface 28 may increase
the
comfort and safety of the user. The beveled surface 28, for example, may be
larger
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along the front surface 20 of the table top 12, but it will be appreciated
that the
personal table 10 does not require a beveled surface.
[058] As shown in Figure 1, the table top 12 preferably has a generally
rectangular configuration with rounded corners and slightly rounded outer
edges or
sides 20, 22, 24, and 26. Desirably, the table top 12 is about thirty (30)
inches in
length and about twenty (20) inches in width, but one skilled in the art will
appreciate that the table top can have other suitable sizes and
configurations. For
example, the table top 12 may be larger or smaller and the table top can have
other
configurations such as square, circular, oval, and the like depending, for
example,
upon the intended use of the personal table 10. In addition, the corners and
edges of
the table top 12 do not have to rounded and, in contrast, the corners and
edges could
have any desirable configuration, but the rounded features may increase the
comfort
and/or safety of the user.
[059] Advantageously, the personal table 10 can be used for a wide variety of
purposes and in a number of different environments. For instance, the personal
table
can be used as a television stand, computer table, sewing table, bedside
table,
coffee table, microwave stand, desk, shop table, luggage stand and the like.
In
addition, the personal table 10 can be used for working, reading, writing and
other
suitable uses. Accordingly, the personal table 10 is capable of many different
uses
and it is preferably sized and configured to be used by a single person at one
time.
The personal table 10, as discussed in more detail below, is preferably sized
and
configured to support one or more objects related to these different tasks and
uses.
For example, the personal table 10 is desirably configured to support a
television,
computer, books, or luggage according to its intended use by the individual
user.
[060] The table top 12 is preferably constructed from a lightweight material
and, more preferably, the table top is constructed from plastic, such as high
density
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polyethylene. The plastic table top 12 is desirably formed by a blow-molding
process because, for example, it allows a strong, lightweight, rigid and
sturdy table
top to be quickly and easily manufactured. Advantageously, the blow-molded
plastic table top 12 is lighter weight that conventional table tops
constructed from
wood or metal, and the blow-molded plastic table top can be constructed from
less
plastic, which saves manufacturing costs and reduces consumer costs. In
particular,
the blow-molded table top 12 can be manufactured with thin plastic walls and
that
allows the table top to cool faster during the manufacturing process, which
decreases
the manufacturing time. Further, the blow-molded plastic table top 12 can be
constructed with any suitable configuration, shape, size, design and/or color
depending, for example, upon the intended use of the personal table 10. For
example, the table top 12 can be constructed with a generally rectangular
configuration of about eighteen by about twenty-four inches (18 x 24), a table
top
with a generally circular configuration with a diameter of about twenty inches
(20)
or a table top with a generally square configuration with twenty-four inch
(24) sides
may be easily formed during the blow-molding process. Of course, it will be
appreciated that the blow-molded table top. 12 can have any suitable size and
configuration depending, for example, upon the intended use of the personal
table
10.
[061] The table top 12 is preferabl y constructed from blow-molded plastic
because blow-molded plastic table tops are durable, weather resistant,
generally
temperature insensitive, corrosion resistant, rust resistant, and generally do
not
deteriorate over time. One skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that
the table
top 12 does not have to be constructed from blow-molded plastic and other
suitable
materials and/or processes can be used to construct the table top depending,
for
example, upon the intended use of the personal table 10.
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[062] As shown in Figure 1, the top surface 16 and the bottom surface 18 of
the
table top 12 are spaced apart a given distance and these two spaced apart
surfaces
help create a rigid and strong table top 12. Additionally, as described in
more detail
below, the top and bottom surfaces 16, 18 may be interconnected by one or more
depressions or other reinforcement structures and these structures may be
sized and
configured to further increase the strength and rigidity of the table top 12.
Advantageously, these depressions and/or other reinforcement structures can be
integrally formed as part of a one-piece structure during the blow-molding
process.
[063] The support assembly 14 is used to support the table top 12 above a
surface such as the ground or floor. As shown in Figures 1-6, an exemplary
embodiment of the support assembly 14 includes a first leg 30a and a second
leg
30b. The first leg 30a and the second leg 30b preferably each include a lower
portion 32a, 32b that is sized and configured to contact the ground or floor,
a body
portion 34a, 34b, and an upper portion 36a, 36b, respectively. The lower
portion
32a, 32b of each of the legs 30a, 30b is preferably sized and configured to
contact
the ground or floor. Desirably, the lower portion 32a, 32b is an elongated
member
that has a length slightly less than the width of the table top 12 to provide
a
relatively stable base, but the elongated member could be longer or shorter.
As
shown in the accompanying figures, the lower portions 32a, 32b are preferably
hollow tubes that are lightweight and easy to manufacture, and the tubes are
preferably constructed from metal but any suitable materials may be used. End
caps
42 may be attached to the ends of the lower portions 32a, 32b to prevent
foreign
objects from entering the hollow tubes and the end caps may provide a non-skid
and
non-marking surface. It will be understood, however, that neither the lower
portions
32a, 32b or end caps 42 are required.
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[064] As shown in Figures 1-6, the lower portions 32a, 32b are preferably
positioned generally parallel to each other to provide a stable base for the
personal
table 10 that is resistant to tipping. It will be appreciated, however, that
the lower
portions 32a, 32b could have any desirable size, configuration or design
depending,
for example, upon the intended use of the personal table 10. For example, the
lower
portions 32a, 32b could have a triangular, square, rectangle, generally planar
or
other suitable configuration, and the support members could have any suitable
width
and length depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10.
(065] The body portions 34a, 34b of the legs 30a, 30b preferably consist of
one
or more elongated members that are used to support the table top 12 above a
surface
such as the ground or floor. It will be appreciated that the lengths of the
body
portions 34a, 34b of the legs 30a, 30b are preferably the same so that the
table top 12
is supported in a generally horizontal position relative to the support
surface and the
length of the body portions may help determine the overall height of the table
10.
The body portions 34a, 34b of each leg 30a, 30b are preferably constructed
from
generally hollow members, such as hollow metal tubes, which are lightweight
and
easy to manufacture, but the body portions may have any desired sizes andlor
configurations. The ends of the body portions 34a, 34b are preferably securely
connected to the lower portions 32a, 32b of the legs 30a, 30b by welding or
other
suitable means.
(066] As shown in Figures 1-6, the body portions 34a, 34b of the legs 30a, 30b
may include two separate elongated support members 40a, 40b. Alternatively, as
shown in Figure 7, for example, the body portions 34a, 34b may include only a
single elongated support member 40a, 40b. Advantageously, the body portions
34a,
34b constructed with two separate elongated support members 40a, 40b may help
prevent twisting or torque on the connection of the body portions 34a, 34b to
the
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lower portions 32a, 32b. Additionally, the two separate elongated support
members
40a, 40b of the body portions 34a, 34b may be curved or spaced apart. In
particular,
the upper and lower portions of the body portions 34a, 34b may be spaced apart
to
facilitate connection of the body portions to the lower portion 32a, 32b,
which may
create a more secure connection.
[067] As best seen in Figures 5 and 6, the upper and lower portions of the
body
portions 34a, 34b are preferably curved outwardly and away from each other.
The
middle portions of the body portions 34a, 34b are preferably curved or arched
towards each other to allow the body portions to be connected. Desirably, the
body
portions 34a, 34b are pivotally connected to allow the legs 30a, 30b to. move
relative
to each other. The legs 30a, 30b are connected at a connection point by a
connector
such as a bolt, pin, screw or other type of suitable fastener 44. Desirably,
the legs
are curved together towards the connection point to decrease the length of the
fastener 44 and the connection point is disposed closer to the table top 12
than the
lower portions 32a, 32b of the legs 30a, 30b, but the legs may be connected at
any
desired point. It will be appreciated that the legs 30a, 30b may also be
slidably or
otherwise movably attached.
[068] As seen in Figures 3-6, for example, the upper portions 36a, 36b are
attached to the upper portions of the body portions 34a, 34b. The upper
portions
36a, 36b preferably have generally the same size and size, and the upper
portions are
desirably constructed from hollow metal tubes. The hollow tubes preferably
have a
generally circular configuration, but the tubes may also be oval, oblong,
square,
rectangular or have other suitable configurations. The upper portions 36a,
36b,
however, do not have to be constructed from hollow metal tubes and the upper
portions may also be constructed from other suitable components and materials.
As
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best seen in Figures 3-5, the upper portions 36a, 36b are preferably spaced
closer
together than the lower portions 32a, 32b when the legs are in an expended
position.
[069] The upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b are preferably sized
and
configured to be received within leg receiving recesses formed within the
table top
12. Advantageously, if the upper portions 36a, 36b have the same size and
configuration, then the upper portions may be interchangeably attached to the
table
top 12. For example, as seen in Figure 13, the bottom surface 18 of the table
top 12
may include one or more leg receiving recesses 50 that are sized and
configured to
receive the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b. Preferably, the
upper
portions 36a, 36b are configured to be connected to selected leg receiving
recesses
by a snap fit, friction or interference fit, which allows the legs 30a, 30b to
be quickly
and easily attached and detached from the table top 12, but the legs can be
connected
to the table top 12 by any suitable manner. Further, latches, tabs, locking
members,
clips fasteners or other suitable devices may be used to retain the upper
portions 36a,
36b in the leg receiving recesses.
[070] The leg receiving recesses 50 preferably generally extend from the front
edge to the rear edge of the table top 12, but the leg receiving recesses may
be
formed in any desired portion of the table top and have any desired size and
configuration depending, for example, upon the size and shape of the upper
portions
36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b. The leg receiving recesses 50 preferably extend
only
a portion of the distance between the bottom 18 surface and the top surface
16, but
the upper portion of the leg receiving recess may contact or engage the top
surface
of the table top.
(071] Advantageously, the leg receiving recesses 50 formed in the table top 12
allow the table 10 to be constructed without a frame, which reduces
manufacturing
costs. Additionally, the engagement between leg receiving recesses 50 and the
legs
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30a, 30b creates a stable support assembly 14. One skilled in the art will
understand
that the support assembly 14 can be connected to the table top 12 by other
suitable
means such as adhesives or mechanical fasteners.
[072] The leg receiving recesses may also include one or more retaining
members 52. The retaining members 52 may flex or bend slightly to allow the
upper
portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b to be inserted and removed from the leg
receiving recesses. The retaining members 52 preferably resiliently return to
their
original positions to help secure the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a,
30b
within the leg receiving recesses 50. It will be appreciated, however, that
the leg
receiving recesses 50 may not require the use of the retaining members 52 to
hold
the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b within the leg receiving
recesses.
[073] In greater detail, the retaining members 52 preferably include a lip
that
extends over a portion of the leg receiving recess 50 and the lip deforms or
deflects
to allow the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b to be inserted or
removed
from the leg receiving recess. The lip preferably includes a generally hollow
interior
that is formed during the blow-molding process. In addition, the lip is
preferably
formed during the blow-molding process as part of an integral, one-piece
structure.
[074] Advantageously, because the table top 12 preferably includes a plurality
of leg receiving recesses 50 and the legs 30a, 30b can be connected to any
suitable
leg receiving recesses, this allows the legs to be connected to different leg
receiving
recesses. As discussed in greater detail below, this may allow the height of
the table
to be adjusted.
[075] The legs.30a, 30b are preferably sized and configured to. be quickly and
easily connected and/or disconnected to any desired leg receiving recesses 50.
In
particular, the legs 30a, 30b are preferably pivotally connected to allow the
legs to
pivot or scissor back and forth with respect to one another at a wide variety
of
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angles. This pivotal connection allows the legs 30a, 30b to be quickly and
easily
positioned so that the legs can be connected to the desired leg receiving
recesses 50
in the table top 12. This pivotal connection also allows the legs 30a, 30b to
be
moved between a first or extended position, which is shown in solid lines in
Figure
4, and a second or collapsed position, which is shown in broken lines in
Figure 4.
The legs 30a, 30b desirably fold generally flat andlor adjacent to each other
in the
second or collapsed position to allow the personal table 10 to be easily
stored or
collapsed.
[076] A channel 54 may be formed in the bottom surface 18 of the table top 12
to receive at least a portion of the legs 30a, 30b in the collapsed position.
As seen in
Figures 13-18, the channel 54 preferably interconnects two or more of the leg
receiving recesses 50 and the channel preferably extends through a side of the
table
top 12 such as the right side 24. The channel 54 preferably has a shape
similar to
that of the body portions 34a, 34b of the legs 30a, 30b and the channel is
preferably
sized and configured to receive at least a portion of one or the body portions
of the
legs in the collapsed position, as shown in Figure 18. This allows the legs
30a, 30b
to be disposed generally adjacent to the table top 12, which reduces the
required
amount of storage space and this may also allow the personal tables 10 to be
easily
stacked.
[077] The legs 30a, 30b may be retained in the collapsed position in the
channel 54 by one or more tabs 56. The tabs 56 are preferably located near an
edge
of the table top 12 and the tabs are preferably sized and configured to extend
over a
portion of the channel 54. The one or more tabs 56 deform or deflect to allow
the
legs 30a, 30b to be received or removed from the channel 54. The tabs 56
preferably include a generally hollow interior portion and the tabs are
desirably
formed during the blow-molding process as part of an integral, one-piece
structure.
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One skilled in the art will understand that clips, fasteners and other types
of devices
may be used to secure the legs 30a, 30b in the collapsed position.
[078] The pivotal connection of the legs 30a, 30b and the plurality of leg
receiving recesses 50 allows the height of the personal table 10 to be easily
adjusted.
As described in more detail below, the user can select which leg receiving
recesses
50 to receive the legs 30a, 30b and this allows the desired height to be
selected. For
example, it will be appreciated that if the legs 30a, 30b are attached to two
leg
receiving recesses 50 that are close together, the table 10 will have a given
height.
However, if the legs 30a, 30b are attached to two leg receiving recesses 50
that are
farther apart, then the table 10 will have a lower height.
[079] The legs 30a, 30b can desirably be quickly and easily moved between the
extended and collapsed positions. For example, if the support legs 30a, 30b
are
completely disengaged from table top 12, then the legs 30a, 30b can be folded
into
the collapsed position for storage. Alternatively, one or more of the legs
30a, 30b
may be attached to the table top 12 when the legs in the collapsed position.
Thus, a
variety of different configurations are contemplated when table 10 is
collapsed,
including: (1) the support assembly 14 is completely disengaged from table top
12;
(2) at least a portion of support assembly is connected to the table. top
while another
portion of the support assembly is disconnected from the table top; and (3) at
least a
portion of support assembly is permanently coupled to table top.
[080] The support assembly 14 is preferably configured to maximize the
legroom for the user when table 10 is in an upright position. For example, as
shown
in Figures 1-3, the body portions 34a, 34b of legs 30a, 30b are not centered
with the
lower portions 32a, 32b or upper portions 36a, 36b. Instead, the body portions
34a,
34b are disposed towards an end of the lower portions 32a, 32b and upper
portions
36a, 36. Thus, when the table top 12 is coupled to the support assembly 14, as
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shown in Figure 1 for example, the body portions 34a, 34b are located
proximate the
rear side 22 of the table top 12. Therefore, when the user is seated at front
side 20 of
table 10, the body portions 34a, 34b of the legs 30a, 30b are positioned
farther away
from the user so as to avoid impeding the user's space.
[081] In particular, because the body portions 34a, 34b of the legs 30a, 30b
are
positioned near the rear side 22 of table top 12, the user can slide the table
10 closer
to their body. This allows the user to position the top surface 16 of the
table top 12
in a desired position while still maintaining adequate legroom underneath the
table
10. Thus, it can be seen that table 10 facilitates the ergonomic comfort of
the user
by reducing the need of the user to lean forward over the table in order to
perform a
particular task, such as reading or crafting. The offset body portions 34a,
34b also
allow the user to slide a chair under the table 10 such that the support
assembly 14
does not generally interfere with the chair. It will be appreciated, however,
that the
body portions 34a, 34b may be located in any suitable relation to the lower
portions
32a, 32b and/or upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b.
[082] As seen in Figure 13, for example, a plurality of depressions 60 may be
formed in the bottom surface 18 of the table top 12. The depressions 60 are
preferably sized and configured to provide additional structural support and
integrity
to. table top 12. The depressions 60 may cover a substantial portion of the
bottom
surface 18 of the table top 12 or the depressions may cover only a portion of
bottom
surface of table top. The depressions 60 may also be located in the leg
receiving
recesses 50 and/or channel 54, if desired. Alternatively, the table top 12 can
be
constructed without any depressions 60. In addition, while the depressions 60
are
preferably located in the bottom surface 18, it will be appreciated that
depressions
may also be formed in any desired portion of the table top 12.
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[083] As shown in Figure 13, the depressions 60 may be formed in an array.
The depressions 60 in the array may be located in a staggered, geometric,
random or
other suitable pattern. Additionally, the depressions 60 may extend from one
surface to an opposing surface such that an end of the depression contacts or
engages the opposing surface. The depressions 60 may also extend only a
portion of
the distance between the opposing surfaces. For example, the depressions 60
may
extend from the bottom surface 18 to the top surface 16, but the depressions
may
also extend only a portion of the distance between the bottom and top
surfaces.
[084] The depressions 60 advantageously increase the strength of the table 12.
While it was previously believed that stronger structures were provided by
making
the walls thicker and/or adding structures such as ribbing, the depressions 60
provide
the surprising and unexpected result that an increased number of depressions
may
provide a stronger structure and/or thinner walls may be used to construct the
structure. Surprisingly, the depressions 60 increase the structural integrity
of the
structure despite forming disruptions in the continuity of bottom surface 18,
and less
plastic can be used to make the structure even though the plurality of
depressions 60
are formed in the structure. The costs of manufacturing and transportation may
be
decreased because thinner plastic walls may be used to construct the table top
12,
which may create a lighter weight table 10.
[085] Additionally, when blow-molded structures are formed, a certain amount
of time must elapse before the structure can be removed from the mold. Blow-
molded structures with thicker walls require a longer cooling time than
structures
with thinner walls. The depressions 60, however, allow table tops 12 with
thinner
plastic walls to be constructed and that reduces the cooling time before the
structure
can be removed from the mold. Significantly, a reduced cycle time increases
the
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efficiency of manufacturing process. In addition, because less plastic is
required, the
cost of the table 10 may be reduced.
[086] Advantageously, the leg receiving recesses 50, retaining members 52,
channels 54, extending tabs 56 and/or depressions 60 may be formed integrally
with
table top 12 during the blow-molding process as part of a one-piece structure.
Advantageously, this allows a strong, lightweight structure to be created. It
will be
appreciated, however, that these structures do not have to be formed as part
of a
unitary structure and, in contrast, one or more of these structures can be
formed after
the blow-molding process.
[087] The personal table can also have other suitable configurations such as
shown in Figures 16-18. In particular, the personal table 10 shown in Figures
16-18
includes a table top 12 with a plurality of receiving recesses 50 formed in
the bottom
surface 18 and this allows the support assembly 14 to be connected to the
table top.
This allows, as seen in Figure 17 for example, the first leg 30a to be
connected to
one of the receiving recesses 50 disposed near the right side of the table top
12 and
the second leg 30b to be connected to the receiving recess disposed near the
left side
of the table top. Advantageously, the first leg 30a can be selectively
connected to
any suitable receiving recess 50 disposed near the right side of the table top
12 in
order to allow the height of the table 10 to be adjusted. For example, if the
first leg
30a is connected to. the receiving recess 50 disposed proximate the center of
the
table top 12, then the table 10 will have a first height such as twenty-eight
inches.
On the other hand, if the first leg 30a is connected to the receiving recess
50
disposed proximate the right side 24, then the table 10 will have a second
height
such as twenty-one. inches. Of course, the first leg 30a could also be
connected to
one of the other receiving recesses 50 to create a table 10 with a height such
as
twenty-four or twenty-six inches. It will be appreciated that the table 10
could be
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sized and configured to have any suitable height and the table may include any
desired number of receiving recesses 50 to allow the height of the table to be
adjusted.
[0$8] The table top 12 shown in Figures 16-18 includes an outer edge 70 and a
recessed center section 72. The recessed center section 72 is preferably
located
between the leg receiving recesses 50 disposed on the right side 24 of the
table top
12 and the left side 26 of the table top. The recessed center section 72 may
include
one or more depressions 60 and the recessed center section preferably extends
towards the top surface 16 of the table top 12. The table top 12 may also
include
one or more recessed outer sections 74 disposed towards the outer edge 70 of
the
table top. The recessed center section 72 and recessed outer sections 74 may
be
located in any desired configuration and the leg receiving recesses 50 and/or
channel
54 may be located within one or more of these recessed sections.
[089] As best seen in Figures 16 and 17, at least a portion of the channel 54
is
formed in the recessed center section 72. The. channel 54, however, may be
flush
with the recessed center section 72 if desired. In addition, the table top 12
may
include one or more generally planar portions 76 that allow instructions,
warnings,
safety labels, manufacturer information, operating instructions and other
information
to be attached to the table top. The table top 12 may also include one or more
support grooves 78 or other desired types of reinforcement structures.
Desirably, the
support grooves 78 may be sized and configured to increase the strength and
rigidity
of the table top 12.
[090] In order to use the table 10 shown in Figures 16-18, one of the legs of
the
support assembly 14 is inserted into one of the desired leg receiving recesses
50 and
the other leg is inserted into another of the desired leg receiving recesses.
This
allows a personal table 10 with the desired height to be created. In order to
adjust
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the height of the personal table 10, one or both of the legs may be removed
from
their respective leg receiving recesses 50 and inserted into another desired
leg
receiving recess. In order to collapse the table 10, the first leg 30a is
preferably
removed from its leg receiving recess 50 and the legs 30a, 30b are positioned
within
the channel 54 as shown in Figure 18. Advantageously, the extending tabs 56
may
help hold the legs 30a, 30b in the collapsed position. When it is desired to
use the
table 10, the legs 30a, 30b are removed from the channel 54 and the first leg
is
inserted into the desired leg receiving recess 50. It will be appreciated that
the entire
support assembly 14 can be removed if desired or one of the legs may be
permanently attached to the table top 12.
[091] It will be appreciated that the leg receiving recesses 50 may also be
disposed along the length of table top 12. That is, the leg receiving recesses
50 may
be disposed proximate the front side 20 and rear side 22 of the table top 12.
Advantageously, this may provide additional uses for the personal table 10.
Further,
if desired, the leg receiving recesses 50 may be disposed along the length
and/or
width of the table top 12 depending, for example, upon the intended use of the
table
10.
(092] From the foregoing description, the leg receiving recesses 50 allow the
personal table 10 to be readily adjusted to various suitable heights. For
example, the
personal table 10 may be configured to have a maximum height, an intermediate
height, and a minimum height. Thus, the table 10 may be configured to have a
height that enables a user to stand and utilize the table, a height that is
generally
equal to the height of a counter top, and/or a height that enables the user to
be seated
at the table. Additionally, the height of the table 10 may be adjusted
according to
the desired use of the table. For example, the height of the table may be
adjusted to
allow the table to be used by children, or the table may have a height which
allows it
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to be used as a television tray or table. Significantly, the various heights
of table 10
can be predetermined and designed for any suitable purpose. This provides
great
flexibility and a wide variety of uses for table 10.
[093] Figure 19 illustrates another aspect of a personal table 80. The
personal
table 80 includes a table top 12 with an outer wall or lip 82. The outer wall
82
preferably extends generally downwardly from the bottom surface 18 of the
table
top 12 and it may form a boarder or edge to the table top. The outer wall 82
preferably encloses a central area 84 in which one or more receiving members
86 are
located. Advantageously, the outer wall 82 may help hide parts of the table 80
from
the view of the user and it may also help protect the user from
unintentionally
contacting parts of the table. The receiving members 86 include one or more
curved
receiving portions 88 that are sized and configured to receive the upper
portions 36a,
36b of the legs 30a, 30b. The upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b are
inserted into the desired receiving portions 88 and the legs are preferably
held within
the receiving portions by a snap, friction or interference fit. It will be
appreciated
that the legs 30a, 30b may be attached to the receiving members 86 by any
suitable
means such as fasteners, clips, brackets, clasps and the like.
[094] As shown in Figure 19, the table 80 includes four receiving members 86
that are located proximate the four corners of the table. The receiving
members 86
may be integrally formed in the. table top 12 during the blow-molding process
to
form a one-piece structure, or the receiving members may be attached to the
table
top 12. The receiving members 86 are preferably disposed within the central
area 84
so that the receiving members are generally hidden from view by the lip 82.
The
receiving members 86 are also preferably generally parallel aligned and the
receiving members are sized and configured to selectively receive the upper
portions
36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b. It will be understood that the receiving
members 86
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may be positioned in any desired location and the table top 12 may include
other
features such as a channel 54 and/or depressions 60.
[095] The receiving members 86 provide a height adjustment mechanism for
selectively increasing or decreasing the distance between the upper portions
36a,
36b of legs 30a, 30b of the support assembly 14, which allows the height of
the table
80 to be adjusted. Advantageously, because the receiving members 86 preferably
include a plurality of receiving portions 88, that allows the table to have a
plurality
of different heights.. One skilled in the art will understand that the
receiving
members 86 may have any suitable number of receiving portions 88 and it is not
required that all the receiving members have the same number of receiving
portions.
[096] In order to use the table 80, one of the legs 30a, 30b of the support
assembly 14 is inserted into a desired pair of receiving portions 88 in the
receiving
members 86. The other leg is then inserted into another desired pair of
receiving
portions 88 in the receiving members 86 to create a personal table 80 with the
desired height. In order to adjust the height of the personal table 80, one or
both of
the legs 30a, 30b may be removed from their respective receiving portions 88
and
inserted into other desired receiving portions. In order to collapse the table
10, one
or both of the legs 30a, 30b are removed from the receiving portions 88 and
the legs
may be moved into a collapsed position.
[097] Another aspect is a personal table 90, as shown in Figures 20 and 21,
which includes a table top 12 and a support assembly 14. The support assembly
14
includes legs 30a, 30b with a lower portion 32a, 32b, a body portion 34a, 34b
and an
upper portion 36a, 36b. The table top includes a lip 92 that is preferably
disposed
about the circumference of the table top and it encloses a central area 94. A
leg
attachment member 96 is preferably located proximate each end of the table top
12
and it is configured to allow the legs 30a, 30b to be connected to the table
top. In
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particular, the leg attachment member 96 is preferably attached to the table
top 12 by
fasteners such as screws 98 and a plurality of grooves or channels 100 are
formed in
the leg attachment member. A receiving member 102 is sized and configured to
be
selectively attached to any of the desired grooves 100 and the receiving
member
allows the legs 30a, 30b to be selectively attached to the table top 12.
[098) The receiving member 102, for example, may be selectively connected to
a desired groove 100 in the leg attachment member 96 and an upper portion 36a,
36b
of a leg 30a, 30b may be selectively or permanently attached to the receiving
member. This allows the leg 30a, 30b to be attached to the table top 12. In
greater
detail, the receiving member 102 may be selectively connected to the groove
100 by
a friction, snap or interference fit, or other suitable means. The receiving
member
102 may also be attached to the leg attachment member 96 by a locking member
104
that includes a handle 106 disposed near an edge of the table top 12. The
receiving
member 102 may be selectively attached to a desired groove 100 by the locking
member 104. The upper portion 36a, 36b of the leg 30a, 30b may be attached to
the
receiving member 102 either before or after the receiving member is attached
to the
groove 100. Alternatively, the leg 30a, 30b may be permanently attached to the
receiving member 102.
[099] As shown in Figure 20, the legs 30a, 30b may be disposed in a collapsed
position with the legs being positioned generally adjacent to the bottom
surface 18
of the table top 12. In this collapsed position, the receiving members 102 are
disposed in the grooves 100 proximate the edges of the table top 12. The
receiving
members 102 can then be released from the grooves 100 proximate the edges of
the
table top 12, for example by pulling the handle 106, and the receiving members
are
then connected to any desired groove 100 according to the desired height of
the table
90.
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[0100] Another aspect of a personal table 110 is shown in Figures 22 through
26. The personal table 110 includes a table top 12 with a lip 112 and a
central area
114 that is enclosed by the lip. Attached to the bottom surface 18 of the
table top
12, preferably in the central area 114, are two height adjustment members
116a,
116b. The height adjustment members 116a, 116b allow the height of table top
12
to be altered by changing the relative positioning of legs 30a, 30b with
respect to
one another. In particular, the height adjustment members 116a, 116b allow the
distance separating the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b to be
changed,
which changes the height of the personal table 110.
[0101] In greater detail, the height adjustment members 116a, 116b preferably
consist of dual hinge or pivoting members 118 with a connecting member 120
having a first end 122 and a second end 124. The first end 122 of the
connecting
member 120 is pivotally connected to the table top 12 by a base 123, but any
suitable method may be used to attach the first end of the dual hinge member
118 to
the table top. The second end 124 of the connecting member 120 is pivotally
attached to the upper portion 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b. Thus, the dual
hinge
members 118 are pivotally connected to the table top 12 and the legs 30a, 30b.
[0102] As illustrated in Figures 23-26, the lengths of the connecting members
120 are preferably different. That is, one connecting member 120 is preferably
longer than the other connecting member. In addition, the dual hinge members
118
also allow the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b to be positioned
in two
different positions. In particular, the dual hinge members 118 allow the upper
portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b to be positioned towards an edge of the
table
top or towards the center of the table top. Because the dual hinge members 118
allow the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b to be positioned in two
different locations and the connecting members 120 preferably have different
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lengths, that allows the legs to be positioned into four different
configurations and
the table to have corresponding different heights.
[0103] In greater detail, as shown in Figures 23-26, the first height
adjusting
member 116a may have a shorter connecting member 120 than the second height
adjusting member 116b. For example, the length of the connecting member 120 of
the first height adjustment member 116a may be approximately half the length
of the
connecting member of the second height adjustment member 116b. In particular,
the length of the first height adjusting member 116a may be about one to two
inches,
and the length of the second height adjusting member 116 b is preferably about
five
to six inches, but the connecting members may have any suitable length.
[0104] Because the dual hinge members 118 are movable between two different
positions and the connecting members 120 have different lengths, the table may
have four different heights. For example, as seen in Figure 23, the first
height
adjustment member 116a has the upper portion 36a of the leg 30a disposed
towards
the center of the table top 12 and the second height adjustment member 116b
has the
upper portion 36b of the leg 30b disposed towards the center of the table top.
This
creates a table with a maximum height. Figure 24 shows the first height
adjustment
member 116a has the upper portion 36a of the leg 30a disposed towards the
center of
the table top 12 and the second height adjustment member 116b has the upper
portion 36b of the leg 30b disposed towards the edge of the table top. This
creates a
table with an intermediate height. Figure 25 illustrates the first height
adjustment
member 116a disposed towards the edge of the table top 12 and the second
height
adjustment member 116b disposed towards the center of the table top to create
a
table with an intermediate height. Figure 26 shows both the first height
adjustment
member 116a and the second height adjustment member 116b disposed towards the
edges of the table top 12, which creates a table with a minimum height.
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[0105] Advantageously, the height adjustment members 116a, 116b allow the
table 110 to be readily adjusted to various suitable heights. Significantly,
the
various heights of the table 110 can be predetermined and designed for any
suitable
purpose. This provides great flexible and a wide variety of uses for the
table.
Further, the height adjustment members 116a, 116b can be used in connection
with
any suitable type of table or support structure.
[0106] Further, please note that the above description of the dual hinge
members
118 is but one example of a height adjustment member that may be used to
adjust
the height of the table. Accordingly, one skilled in the art will recognize
that various
modifications may. be made to the height adjustment members 116a, 116b in
order to
suit the needs of a particular application. It will also be understood that
the table can
be constructed with only a single height adjustment member 116. For example,
one
leg 30a, 30b could be coupled to table top.12 using a height adjustment member
116
while the other leg is attached to table top 12 using a standard hinge or
pivotal
connection.
(0107] Figures 27 and 28 illustrate another aspect of a personal table 130
that
includes a support assembly coupled to a table top. The personal table 130
includes
a lip 132 and a central area 134 that is generally enclosed by the lip. Four
brackets
136 are attached to the bottom surface 18 of the table top 12 and the brackets
are
preferably located in the corners of table top. The brackets 136 are attached
to the
table top 12 by fasteners such as screws, but any suitable means may be used
to
connect the brackets to the table top. The brackets 136 are preferably
elongated
members with a slot 136 disposed towards the center of table top 12. The ends
of
the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b are preferably disposed
within
opposing slots and the slots allow the upper portions of the legs to slide
along the
length of bracket 136. Because both the legs 30a, 30b are slidably received
within
CA 02435656 2003-03-04
WO 03/059119 PCT/US03/00749
32
brackets 136, it will be appreciated that the legs can be configured to adjust
the
height of table 130. Alternatively, only one leg 30a, 30b may be slidably
coupled to
table top 12 via the brackets 136.
[0108] The table 130 also includes a height adjustment mechanism 140 for
selectively adjusting the height of the table by increasing or decreasing the
distance
between the upper portions 36a, 36b of legs 30a, 30b. The height adjustment
mechanism 140 includes a ratchet assembly 142 that is pivotally connected to
table
top 12. The ratchet assembly 142 includes a gear 144 with a plurality of teeth
146
and a pair of outwardly extending arms 148. The arms 148 are attached to the
legs
30a, 30b of the support assembly 14 by connectors 150 such as elongated rods.
The
ratchet assembly 142 also includes a pawl 152 that is configured to engage the
teeth
146 on the gear 144. The pawl 152 is attached to a lever 154 that is
accessible by a
user at outer edge of table top 12.
[0109] As shown in Figure 27, the gear 144 may be rotated in a clockwise
direction to position the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b closer
together.
Alternatively, as shown in Figure 28, the gear 144 may be rotated in a counter-
clockwise direction and the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b may
be
moved apart. Similar to that described above, when the upper portions 36a, 36b
of
the legs 30a, 30b are spaced closer together, the height of the table
increases. On the
other hand, when the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b are spaced
farther
apart, the height of the table decreases. It will be appreciated that the
ratchet
assembly allows the table to have a plurality. of different heights.
[0110] Although this invention has been described in terms of certain
preferred
embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art
are
also within the scope of this invention. Accordingly, the scope of the
invention is
intended to be defined only. by the claims which follow.
