Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02455995 2007-01-17
PERSONAL TABLE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
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
moved between a extended or use position and a collapsed or storage position.
Description of Related Art
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
chair
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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.
10041 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
difficult
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 tliin, light-weight materials. Disadvantageously,
these
light-weight table tops frequently require reinforcing naembers or other
structural
parts such as brackets, support members 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 arms or
legs.
[0061 Known tables may also allow the height of the table to be adjusted to
suit
the needs of a particular 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
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
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height of the table to be adjusted, but these devices are often relatively
complex and
require additional parts, which generally increases the amount of time
required to
manufacture the table and the costs to assemble the table. These complex
designs
may also result in tables that are relatively difficult for the consumer to
use and these
tables may require a substantial amount of time in order for the height of the
table to
be adjusted.
(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. It is known to attempt to reduce the inconvenience of
individually
folding each of the legs against the table top by coupling two of the legs
together by a
long connecting rod. This may increase the stability of i:he table top and
enable the
user to simultaneously fold two legs into the collapsed position. The long
connecting
rods, however, may increase the cost of the table, reduce space under the
table top,
and the rods often 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 multiple separate attachment mechanisms to the table top by
fasteners such as screws or bolts may undesirably weaken the table top.
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[0091 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
mechanisms to
attach the legs to the table top, which increases the cost and complexity of
the table. 'The
four separate attachment mechanisms may also undesirably increase the weight
of the table
and require multiple mechanical fasteners such as screws and bolts to connect
the attachment
mechanisms to the table top.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
100101 A need exists for a table that eliminates the problems and other
deficiencies found in convention tables.
[0011] 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.
[OOl la] One aspect of the personal table is that it includes a table top
constructed
from plastic. The personal table also includes first, second and third pairs
of leg receiving
recesses disposed on the underside of the table top. Further, the table
includes a first leg
having an upper portion that is sized and configured to be connected to the
first pair of leg
receiving recess, and a second leg having an upper portion that is adjustable
in length
between an extended position and a collapsed position. The second leg may be
disconnected
from the second pair of leg receiving recesses when the upper portion of the
second leg is
in the collapsed position and selectively connected to the third pair of leg
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receiving recesses when the upper portion of the second leg is in the extended
position to
change a height of the personal table.
[0011b] 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.
[0012] Another aspect is a table that 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
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tasks such as reading, writing, studying, working, etc. Thuis, the personal
table can be
used in a number of different environments and it can perform numerous
different
tasks.
[0013] Still another aspect is a table that is suitable for use in a variety
of
situations and environments because it preferably provides ample space for a
user,
while at the same time being lightweight so as to enable the table to be moved
from
place to place with relative ease. Advantageously, the table can have
different sizes
and configurations depending upon the desired use of the table. The table may
also
have a larger size so that it can be used by more than one person at a time.
[0014] A further aspect is a table with a table top that 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 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.
[0015] Yet another aspect is a table in which the height of the table can be
readily
adjusted. Advantageously, the adjustable height table allows it to be used for
many
different purposes. For example, the height of the table may be adjusted to
allow the
table to be used as a desk, televisions stand, bedside table oir end table.
[0016] A still further aspect is a table with a table top that 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 and/or
storage room
under the table. In addition, the single pair of legs is light-weight and
easily attached
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to the table top. The single pair of legs can desirably support the table top
and any
suitable objects placed on the table. Advantageously, because the personal
table has a
relatively small size, the single pair of legs can properly support the table.
[0017] Another aspect is a table with a table top that is supported by a
single pair
of legs and the 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, an
elongated body portion, and an upper portion that is sized and configured to
be
connected to the table top. The elongated body portion of each of the legs may
include two or more support members, which helps prevent twisting or
undesirable
torque on the connection of the upper and lower portions to the elongated body
portion.
[0018] Yet another aspect is a table in which the legs are attached to the
underside
of the table top and the legs are preferably offset from the center of the
table. In
particular, the legs are preferably positioned near an outer edge of the table
top to
provide enhanced legroom for the user. This also allows the table top to be
positioned
closer to the body of the user when the table, for example, is being used as a
desk or
for a writing surface. Advantageously, this may make the table more convenient
for
the user. In addition, the lower portion of the legs may form elongated feet
that are
used to create a stable base for the table top.
[0019] A still further aspect is a table with legs that are movable between a
use
position and a storage position. The legs preferably exten.d outwardly from
the table
top in the use position and the legs support the table top above a surface
such as the
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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 and/or proximate to the bottom surface of the
table
top in the collapsed position. Advantageously, the colllapsed legs may
facilitate
stacking of the tables and decrease the space required to store or ship the
tables.
[00201 A further aspect is a table that is adjustable in height according to
the
needs of the user. For example, the bottom surface of the table top may
include a
plurality of leg receiving recesses that are sized and configured to
selectively receive
a portion of at least one of the legs. The leg or legs can be readily moved
from one
leg receiving recess to another leg receiving recess to allow the height of
the table to
be adjusted. In particular, the leg receiving recesses are preferably
positioned into
two or more generally aligned pairs of openings or receiving portions disposed
on the
underside of the table top. Preferably one of the pairs of generally aligned
receiving
portions is positioned proximate an edge of the table top and another of the
pairs of
generally aligned receiving portions is positioned proximate the center
portion of the
table top. The ends of the upper portion of the legs can then be selectively
inserted
and removed from the two or more generally aligned pairs of receiving portions
to
allow the height of the table to be adjusted. Advantageously, by inserting the
upper
portion of the legs into different pairs of receiving portions, the height of
the table top
can be readily adjusted. In addition, one or both of the legs can be detached
from the
table top to allow the table to be stored. Significantly, the readily
adjustable legs
provides increase flexibly and a variety of uses for the personal table. For
example,
the table can be positioned at a desired height for eating, watching
television, or
supporting items next to a chair. The table can also be quickly and easily
folded into
a storage position.
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100211 Yet another aspect is a personal table with legs that can be attached
to
receiving portions formed in the table top. In particular, the legs receiving
portions
may include generally aligned pairs of leg receiving recesses and the ends of
the
upper portions of the legs may be inserted into the generally aligned pairs of
leg
receiving recesses. Desirably, the length of the upper portion of one or both
of the
legs is adjustable to allow the upper portion of the leg to be inserted and
removed
from the generally aligned pairs of leg receiving recesses.
100221 A further aspect is a table with a frame and the frame preferably
includes
two generally parallel side rails. Each of the side rails preferably includes
at least two
pairs of generally aligned openings or apertures. The leg or legs can be
readily moved
from one pair of generally aligned openings to another pair of generally
aligned
openings to allow the height of the table to be adjusted. Preferably one of
the pairs of
generally aligned openings is positioned proximate an edge of the table top
and
another of the pairs of generally aligned openings is positioned proximate the
center
portion of the table top. The ends of the upper portion of the legs can then
be
selectively inserted and removed from the two or more generaily aligned pairs
of
openings to allow the height of the table to be adjusted. Advantageously, the
openings in the frame can be used in conjunction with leg receiving recesses,
if
desired.
(0023] Another aspect is a table in which one or both legs may be selectively
detached from the table top to allow the legs to be moved from an extended to
a
collapsed position. In addition, the selective detachment of one or both of
the legs
may allow the height of the table to be easily adjusted by attaching the legs
to
different leg receiving recesses. One of the legs may also be permanently
attached to
the table top.
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[0024[ A still further aspect is a table that can have a variety of suitable
sizes and
configurations. In addition, the table can be manufactured to have one of
several
combinations of adjustable height settings. Thus, the table can be optimized
for a
specific use, or the table can be easily adjustable for a variety of different
uses.
[0025] Advantageously, the table is relatively simple to manufacture because
it
preferably consists of a table top constructed from blow-rnolded 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, the 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.
[0026] Additionally, the 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.
[0027] These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present
invention
will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred
embodiments and appended claims.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments of the
personal table. The above-mentioned aspects, features atid advantages of the
personal
table, as well as other aspects, features and advantages, will be described in
connection
with the preferred embodiments. It is appreciated that these drawings depict
only
certain preferred embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be
considered
limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with
additional
specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
[0029] Figure 1 is a rear perspective view of a personal table in accordance
with
an embodiment of the present invention;
100301 Figure 2 is a front perspective view of the personal table in
accordance
with another embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] Figure 3 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of the personal
table
shown in Figure 1, illustrating the bottom surface of the table top;
[0032] Figure 4 is a bottom view of the bottom surface of the personal table
shown in Figure 3;
[0033] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the personal table shown
in
Figure 1, illustrating the frame;
[0034] Figure 6 is a top view of the frame of the personal table shown in
Figure 5;
[0035] Figure 7 is a left side view of the frame of the personal table shown
in
Figure 5;
[0036] Figure 8 is a right side view of the frame of the personal table shown
in
Figure 5;
[0037] Figure 9 is a front view of the frame of the personal table shown in
Figure
5;
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m h 11
100381 Figure 10 is a bottom view of the frame of the personal table shown in
Figure 5;
100391 Figure 11 is a bottom perspective view of the personal table shown in
Figure 1, illustrating the legs in an extended position; ancl
[0040] Figure 12 is a bottom perspective view of the personal table shown in
Figure 1, illustrating,the legs in a collapsed position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0041] 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.
[0042] 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.
[0043] 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 sir.igle person is
referred to as a
personal table.
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100441 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 16, bottom 18, front 20, rear 22, right side 24
and left side
26. The table top 12 may also include a beveled, slopeci or rounded surface
disposed
between the top surface 16 and one or more of the sides 20, 22, 24 and 26. The
beveled surface may be sized and configured to increase the comfort and safety
of the
user. The beveled surface, for example, may be larger along the front 20 of
the table
top 12, but it will be appreciated that the table 10 does not require a
beveled surface.
[0045] 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 table 10. In addition, the corners and edges of the table top 12 do
not har-:
to rounded and, in contrast, the corners and edges could have any desirable
configuration, but the rounded features may increase the comfort andlor safety
of the
user.
[0046] Advantageously, the table 10 can be used for a wide variety of purposes
and in a number of different environments. For instance, the table 10 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 table 10
can be
used for working, reading, writing and other suitable uses. Accordingly, the
table 10
is capable of many different uses and it is preferably sized and configured to
be used
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by a single person at one time. The table 10, as discussed in niore detail
below, is
preferably sized and configured to support one or more objects related to
these
different tasks and uses. For example, the table 10 is desirably configured to
support
a television, computer, books, or luggage according to its intended use by the
individual user.
[0047] 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
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 has a lighter weight that conventional table tops constructed from wood or
rnetal,
and the blow-molded plastic table top can be constructed from less plastic
than
conventional plastic table tops, which may save manufacturing costs and reduce
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 shape,
configuration,
size, design and/or color depending, for example, upon the intended use of the
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 c-f 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.
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
14 100481 The table top 12 is preferably 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-molcied plastic and other
suiitablc:
materials and/or processes can be used to construct the table top depending,
for
example, upon the intended use of the personal table 10. Thus, the table top
12 could
be constructed from other materials with suitable characteristics, such as
wood, metal
and other types of plastic. Additionally, the table top 12 does not have to be
constructed from blow-molded plastic and it could be constructed from
injection
molded plastic, extrusion molded plastic, and the like.
[0049] As shown in Figure 1, the top 16 and bottom 18 surfaces 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, the top and bottorn surfaces 16,
18 may be
interconnected by one or more depressions or other reinf rcement structures
and these
structures may be sized and configured to increase the strength and/or
rigidity of the
table top 12. Advantageously, these depressions and/or other reinforcement
structures
can be integrally formed in the table top 12 as part of a one-piece structure,
for
example, during the blow-molding process.
[0050] As best seen in Figures 3 and 4, the bottom 18 of the table top 12 may
include a recessed center section 27. The recessed center portion 27 may cover
substantially the entire bottom 18 of the table top 12, or the recessed center
portion 27
may cover only a portion of the bottom of the table top. One skilled in the
art will
appreciate that the table top 12 does not require the recessed center section
27. The
table top 12 may include one or more generally planar portions 28 that allow
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
instructions, warnings, safety labels, manufacturer information, operating
instructions
and other information to be attached to the table top. In addition, the bottom
18 of the
table top 12 may include a lip 29. The lip 29 is preferably disposed about the
outer
edges or perimeter of the table top 12 and the lip is preferably integrally
formed with
the table top 12 as part of a one-piece structure. For example, the lip 29
could include
a hollow interior portion that is formed during the manufacturing process and
the
hollow interior portion may be in direct communication with a hollow interior
portion
of the table top 12. The lip 29, however, could also be a separate structure
that is
attached to the table top 12 and the lip could be disposed inwardly from the
outer
edges or perimeter of the table top. It will be appreciated that the lip 29
could have
other suitable arrangements and configurations, and the table 10 does not
require the
lip.
(0051] As discussed above, 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 5-9,
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, 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
to
construct the lower portions of the legs. End caps 42 may be attached to the
ends of
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
16
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. The end caps
42
may also be sized and configured to assist in moving the table 10, if desired.
It will
be understood, however, that neither the lower portions 32a, 32b or end caps
42 are
required.
[0052] As shown in the accompanying figures, the lower portions 32a, 32b of
the
legs 30a, 30b are preferably positioned generally parallel to each other to
provide a
stable base for the personal table 10 that resists 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 shape and configuration, and the support
members
could have any suitable width and length depending, fo;r example, upon the
intended
use of the table 10.
[0053] 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 and/or
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.
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
17
100541 As best seen in Figures 5-7, the body portions 34a, 34b of the legs
30a,
30b may include two separate elongated support members 40a, 40b.
Advantageously,
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
to the lower portions 32a, 32b of the legs 30a, 30b. 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.
[00551 As best seen in Figures 5 and 7, the upper and lower portions of the
bodv
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 44 by a connector
such
as a bolt, pin, screw or other type of suitable fastener 46. Desirably, the
legs are
curved together towards the connection point 44 to decrease the length of the
fastener
46. In addition, the connection point 44 may be 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. It will also be appreciated that the body portions
34a,
34b may include only a single elongated support member 40a, 40b, or more than
two
elongated support members if desired.
[0056) As best seen in Figure 5, for example, the upper portions 36a, 36b are
attached to the body portions 34a, 34b of the legs 30a, 30b. The upper
portions 36a,
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
i8
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
with
the appropriate sizes and configurations depending, for example, upon the
intended
use of the table 10 or the type of connection of the.
[0057) The upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b are preferably sized
and
configured to be received within leg receiving recesses 50. The leg receiving
recesses
50 may be disposed within a frame 52 and/or openings 54 formed within the
table top
12. The leg receiving recesses 50 preferably have generally the same size and
configuration, which allows the upper portions of the legs to be
interchangeably
attached to the table top 12. This may allow the height of the table 10 to be
readily
adjusted according to which leg receiving recesses 50 the legs 30a, 30b are
attached.
One skilled in the art will appreciate that latches, tabs, locking members,
clips,
fasteners or other suitable devices may be used to retain the upper portions
36a, 36b
of the legs 30a, 30b in the leg receiving recesses 50.
(0058] The leg receiving recesses 50 may include one or more openings 56
formed in a frame 52. The frame 52 may include two side rails 60a, 60b that
preferably extend at least a majority of the length of the table top 12. The
side rails
60a, 60b are preferably generally parallel disposed and located proximate
opposing
edges of the table top 12. Advantageously, the side rails 60a, 60b may be
connected
to the lip 29 or other suitable portions of the table top 12. The frame 58 is
preferably
constructed from a relatively sturdy material such as metal and the openings
56 are
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
19 -preferably sized and configured to receive the ends of the upper portions
36a, 36b of
the legs 30a, 30b.
[0059] The leg receiving recesses 50 may also include one or more openings 54
formed in the table top 12. In particular, the openings 54 are preferably
formed in an
inner surface of the lip 29. The openings 54 may be integrally formed while
the table
top 12 is being constructed, such as during the blow-molding process, or the
openings
may be formed after the table top is constructed, such as by drilling, boring
or
punching. The openings 54 may simply comprise apertures formed in the lip 29
or
the openings may comprise recesses, alcoves, indentations, depressions and the
like
formed in the lip or other suitable portions of the table top 12.
[0060] Desirably, the leg receiving recesses 50 include both the openings 56
in
the frame 52 and the openings 54 in the table top 12. In particular, the
openings 56 in
the frame 52 and the openings 54 in the table top 12 are preferably aligned to
allow
the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b to be inserted and removed
from the
leg receiving recesses 50, as desired. It will be appreciated, however, that
the leg
receiving recesses 50 may also comprise either the openings 56 in the frame 52
or the
openings 54 in the table top 12. Whether the upper portions 36a, 36b of the
legs 30a,
30b are inserted into the openings 56 in the frame 52 and/or the openings 54
in the
table top 12, the legs are preferably securely connected to the table top 12
to create a
stable and sturdy table 10.
[0061] The leg receiving recesses 50 are preferably disposed into at least two
pairs of generally aligned recesses disposed proximate opposing sides of the
table top
12. In particular, as shown in the accompanying figures, an exemplary
embodiment
of the table 10 includes four pairs of generally aligned leg receiving
recesses 50
disposed near one end of the table top 12. The table 10 may also include one
or more
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
leg receiving recesses 50 disposed near the other erid of the table top 12. As
discussed in greater detail below, one of the legs 30a, 30b is preferably
selectively
attached to the leg receiving recesses 50 disposed near one end of the table
top 12 and
the other leg is preferably securely attached to the leg, receiving recesses
disposed
near the other end of the table top 12. It will be understood, however, that
either or
both of the legs 30a, 30b may be securely or selectively attached to the leg
receiving
recesses 50.
[0062] Additionally, the leg receiving recesses 50 can be formed with or
without
the fra.me 52. Thus, while the table 10 is preferably constructed with the
frame 52,
the frame is not required. Additionally, while the frame 52 may be sized and
configured to increase the strength and rigidity of the table top 12, the
frame may
simply be used to help align the upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b
with the
leg receiving recesses. The frame 52 may also be provided for aesthetic or
cosmetic
reasons.
[00631 The bottom 18 of the table top 12 may include one or more guide members
62 that are preferably sized and configured to help guide the upper portions
36a, 36b
of the legs 30a, 30b into the leg receiving recesses 50. The guide members 62
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 guide members 62 may
also extend all or a portion of the distance between opposing leg receiving
recesses 50
and the guide members may be divided into one or more parts, if desired. For
example, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the guide members 62 are divided into
three
discrete sections and four guide members are used to help align and position
the upper
portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b within the four leg receiving recesses
50
disposed towards one end of the table top 12. It will be appreciated that any
suitable
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
21
number and arrangement of guide members 62 may be utilized and that the leg
receiving recesses 50 do not require the use of the guide members 62 to guide
the
upper portions 36a, 36b of the legs 30a, 30b into the leg receiving recesses.
[0064] The guide members 62 preferably include a hollow interior portion that
is
formed during the manufacturing process. In addition, the guide members 62 are
preferably formed during the manufacturing process as part of an integral, one-
-piece
table top 12. The guide members 62, however, could comprise separate
components
that are attached to the table top 12. Moreover, the guide members 62 do not
have to
be formed during the manufacturing process and the guide members can be formed
by
any suitable means, methods or processes.
[0065] The legs 30a, 30b are desirably sized and configured to be connected to
any of the desired plurality of leg receiving recesses 50. In particular, one
or both of
the legs 30a, 30b may be sized and configured to be quickly and easily
conne;cted
and/or disconnected to any desired leg receiving recesses 50. This may allow
the legs
30a, 30b, which are preferably pivotally connected, to pivot or scissor back
and forth
with respect to one another at a wide variety of 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, as shown in Figure 11, and a second or collapsed position, which is
shown in
Figure 12. The legs 30a, 30b desirably fold generally flat and/or adjacent to
each
other in the second or collapsed position to allow the table 10 to be easily
stored or
transported.
j00661 In greater detail, one or both of the upper portions 36a, 36b of the
legs 30a,
30b may be adjustable in length to allow the legs to be selectively connected
to the leg
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
22
receiving recesses 50. For example, the length of the upper portion 36a, 36b
of either
or both of the legs 30a, 30b may be adjustable to allow the legs to be
removably
inserted into the leg receivirig recesses 50. Thus, the length of the upper
portion 36a,
36b of the legs 30a, 30b may be moved between a first or reduced length
position in
which the upper portions of the legs may be readily inserted into a desired
pair of leg
receiving recesses 50 and a second or extended length position in which the
legs can
be disposed within a desired pair of leg receiving recesses.
10067) As best seen in Figures 5-8, the upper portion 36b of the leg 30b may
include an opening 64 and a length adjusting member 66 may be disposed within
the
opening. The length adjusting member 66 may have an elongated body 68 that is
disposed within the opening 64. The length adjusting member 66 desirably
allows the
length of the upper portion 36b of the leg 30b to move between the first or
reduced
length position and the second or extended length position. The length
adjusting
member 66 is preferably biased to maintain the upper portion 36b of the leg
30b in the
second position. A spring or other resilient member may be used to bias the
upper
portion 36b of the leg 30b in the second position. It will be appreciated that
other
means may be used to bias the upper portion 36b of the leg 30b into the second
position.
100681 A trigger mechanism 69 may be used to assist iri adjusting the length
of the
upper portion 36b of the leg 30b. For example, a user may grasp the trigger 69
and
apply a force on the trigger that overcomes the biasing force of the length
adjusting
member 66 to allow the length of the upper portion 36b of the leg 30b to be
adjusted.
In particular, one end of the length adjusting member 66 may be fastened to
one end
of the upper portion 36b of the leg 30b and the other end of the length
adjusting
member may be freely disposed within the other end of the upper portion of the
leg.
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
23
When a user applies a force to the trigger, the ends of the upper portion 36b
of the leg
30b may be pulled together, which reduces the length of the upper portion, and
allows
it to be selectively positioned within a desired pair of leg receiving
recesses 50. It
will be appreciated that the length of the upper portions of the legs may be
adjusted by
any suitable method or manner. Advantageously, when the upper portions 36a,
36b of
the legs 30a, 30b are inserted into the leg receiving recesses 50 and the
upper portions
are in the extended length position, the legs are securely connected to the
table top 12.
100691 As shown in the accompanying figures, only the second leg 30b is
selectively connected to the leg receiving recesses 50 and is adjustable in
length. The
first leg 30a is preferably securely connected to the leg receiving recesses
50 and it
not adjustable in length. Thus, the first leg 30a is preferably connected to
the leg
receiving recesses 50 during the manufacturing process and it is generally not
removable from the leg receiving recesses. It will be appreciated, however,
that the
first leg 30a may also be selectively connected to the leg receiving recesses,
if desired.
[0070] An opening 70 may be formed in the bottom 18 of the table top 12 tc,
receive at least a portion of the legs 30a, 30b in the collapsed position. As
seen in
Figures 1-4, the opening 70 is preferably disposed in the lip 29 and the
opening is
preferably sized and configured to allow at least a portion of the legs 30a,
30b to
extend through the opening when the legs are in the collapsed position. This
allows
the legs 30a, 30b to be disposed generally adjacent to the bottom surface 18
of the
table top 12 when the legs are in the collapsed position, which may reduce the
required amount of storage space for a table and may facilitate stacking of
the tables.
[0071] The legs 30a, 30b may be retained in the collapsed position in the
opening
70 by one or more tabs that are located near an edge of the table top 12. The
tabs may
secure the legs 30a, 30b in the collapsed position by a friction, snap or
interference fit.
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
24
For example, the tabs may extend over a portion of the opening 70 and the tabs
may
deform or deflect to allow the legs 30a, 30b to be received or removed from
the
opening. The tabs may include a generally hollow interior portion and the tabs
may
be formed during the manufacturing process as part of an integral, one-piece
structure.
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. For
example, as
best seen in Figures 3 and 4, one or more clips 72 may be used to secure the
legs 30a,
30b in the collapsed position. Desirably, the clips 72 selectively hold the
legs 30a,
30b by a friction, interference or snap fit, but any suitable type of clips,
connectors or
fasteners may be used to retain the legs in the collapsed position. The legs
30a, 30b,
however, do not have to be held in the collapsed position.
[00721 As seen in Figures 3 and 4, a center portion 74 may be disposed within
the
opening 70 and the center portion may be sized and configured to be inserted
within a
portion of the legs 30a, 30b when the legs are in the collapsed position. If
desired, the
center portion 74 may be sized and configured to help secure the legs in the
collapsed
position. The center portion 74, however, may also be for aesthetic or design
reasons.
As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a center portion 74 does not have to be disposed
within
the opening 70.
100731 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
receive either or both of 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
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
height. However, if the legs 30a, 30b are attached to two leg receiving
recesses 50
that are farther apart, then the table 10 wi l l have a lower height.
[0074] Additionally, 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.
[00751 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 1-2, the body portions 34a, 34b are not centered with the lower
portions
32a, 32b or upper portions 36a, 36b of legs 30a, 30b. Instead, the body
portions 34a,
34b are disposed towards an end of the lower portions 32a, 32b and upper
portions
36a, 36 of legs 30a, 30b. Thus, when the table top 12 is coupled to the
support
assembly 14, as shown in Figure I for example, the body portions 34a, 34b are
located proximate the rear 22 of the table top 12. Therefore, when the user is
seated
at front 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.
[00761 In particular, because the body portions 34a, 34b of the legs 30a, 30b
are
positioned near the rear 22 of table top 12, the user can slide the table 10
closer to
their body. This allows the user to position the table top 12 in a desired
position while
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
26
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.
[0077] As seen in Figures 3 and 4, for example, a plurality of depressions 76
may
be formed in the bottom 18 of the table top 12. The depressions 76 are
preferably
sized and configured to provide additional structural support and integrity to
table top
12. The depressions 76 may cover a substantial portion of the bottom 18-of the
table
top 12 or the depressions may cover only a portion of the bottom of table top.
The
depressions 76 may also be located in the lip 29, guide members 62 and/or
opening
70, if desired. Alternatively, the table top 12 can be constructed without any
depressions 76. In addition, while the depressions 76 are preferably located
in the
bottom 18, it will be appreciated that depressions may also be formed in any
desired
portion of the table top 12.
[00781 As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the depressions 76 may be formed in an
array. The depressions 76 in the array may be located in a staggered,
geometric,
random or other suitable pattern. Additionally, the depressions 76 may extend
from
one surface to an opposing surface such that an end of the depression contacts
or
engages the opposing surface. The depressions 76 may also extend only a
portion of
the distance between the opposing surfaces. For example, the depressions 76
may
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
27
extend from the bottom 18 to the top 16, but the depressions may also extend
only a
portion of the distance between the bottom and top portions of the table top
12.
[00791 The depressions 76 may be designed to increase the strength and
structural
integrity of the table 12. While it was previousiy believed that stronger
structures
were provided by making the walls thicker and/or adding structures such as
ribbing,
the depressions 76 may 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 76 may increase
the
structural integrity of the structure despite forming disruptions in the
continuity of
bottom portion 18 of the table top 12, and less plastic can be used to make
the
structure even though the plurality of depressions 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.
[0080] 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 76, however, may allow table tops 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 may increase the
efficiency of manufacturing process. In addition, because less plastic is
required, the
cost of the table 10 may be reduced.
[0081] The leg receiving recesses 50, openings 54, guide members 62, opening
70
and/or depressions 76 may be formed integrally with table top 12 during the
manufacturing process as part of a one-piece structure. For example, one or
more of
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
28
these features may be formed during a blow-molding process. Advantageously,
this
allows a strong, lightweight structure to be created. It will be appreciated,
however,
that these features do not have to be formed as part of a unitary structure
and these
features can be formed separately or after the manufacturing process.
[0082] As best seen in Figure 11, the first leg :30a is preferably selectively
connected to any suitable receiving recess 50 disposed near the one side of
the table
top 12 and the second leg 30b is preferably securely connected to the table
top in a
generally fixed position. Because the first leg 30a is selectively connected
to any
suitable receiving recess 50, 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 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.
While the first
leg 30a is preferably selectively connected to the table top 12 and the second
leg 30b
is preferably securely connected to the table top 12, it will be appreciated
that the
second leg may be selectively connected to the table top and the first leg may
be
securely connected to the table top. It will also be appreciated that the
first and
second legs 30a, 30b may be selectively secured to the table top 12 if
desired.
[00831 In order to use the table 10 shown in Figures 11 and 12, the second leg
30b
is securely connected to the table top 12 and the first leg 30a is selectively
connected
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
29
to the table top. In particular, the first leg 30a is selectively connected to
any of the
desired leg receiving recesses 50 according to the desired height of the
table. [n order
to adjust the height of the personal table 10, the first leg 30a may be
removed from its
leg receiving recesses 50 and inserted into another desired leg receiving
recess. In
order to collapse the table 10, the first leg 30a is removed from its leg
receiving recess
50 and the legs 30a, 30b are positioned in the collapsed position shown in
Figure 12.
Advantageously, the legs 30a, 30b may extend through the opening 70 and the
clips
72 may retain the legs in the collapsed position. When it is desired to use
the table 10,
the legs 30a, 30b are removed from the opening 70 and the first leg 30a is
inserted
into the desired leg receiving recesses 50. It will be appreciated that the
entire support
assembly 14 can be removed if both legs 30a, 30b are both selectively attached
to the
table top 12.
[0084] It will be appreciated that the leg receiving recesses 50 may also be
disposed along the width of table top 12. That is, the leg receiving recesses
50 may
be disposed proximate the right and left sides 24, 26 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.
[0085] 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.
CA 02455995 2004-02-05
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 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.
[0086] Significantly, the various heights of the table can be predetermined
and
designed for any suitable purpose. This provides great flexible and a wide
variety of
uses for the table. Further, the legs can be connected to the table top by any
suitable
type of support structure.
(0087] 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
