Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
T'OLDING TABLE AND BENCH SYSTEM
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority to and the benefit of United States
Provisional
Patent Application Serial Number 60/494,393, entitled FOLDING TABLE WITH
s NESTED BENCHES, which was filed on August 12, 2003. This application is also
a
continuation-in-part of United States Design Patent Application Serial Number
29/188,032, entitled FOLDING PICNIC TABLE WITH NESTED BENCHES, which
was filed on August 12, 2003. The disclosures of each of the foregoing
applications
are incorporated by reference herein their entireties.
Bt~.CKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to furniture and; more particularly,
to
tables and benches that can be collapsed for storage.
Description of Related An
Various types of tables and chairs are well known. In particular, it is well
known to use tables and chairs at home, in the office, outdoors, in
recreational settings
and in other various locations. 'While tables and chairs are typically
designed for' use
in a particular environment, various types of tables and chairs can often be
used in
other environments if desired.
2o Tables and chairs that are intended to be used outdoors, for example, are
often
made of materials that are designed to withstand the weather such as rain,
snow, sleet
and sunshine. Thus, many tables and chairs that are designed to be used
outdoors are
constructed from materials such as wood, metal and concrete. Tables and chairs
constructed from these materials are often sturdy, durable and long-lasting.
2s Disadvantageously, tables and chairs constructed from wood, rnetaI or
concrete a:re
often very heavy and difftcult to move. Thus, these types of tables and chairs
are;
often not readily portable. In addition, tables and chairs constructed from
these
materials often require periodic maintenance and repair. For example, tables
and
chairs constructed from wood must be periodically painted or stained in order
to
3o protect the wood from damage. In addition, tables and chairs constructed
from rr~etal
must be protected so that they do not rust, oxidize or otherwise deteriorate
over time.
It is known to use chairs and benches in connection with a table to allow
people to sit at and eat or otherwise use the table. Benches may be more
efficient to
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
2
use than chairs because benches may allow numerous persons to sit on a single
bench.
For example, a bench may be disposed along each side of a table and the
benches may
allow multiple people to sit at the table. Benches, however, are often
relatively
unstable and may tip over easily. In addition, benches tend to be rather
large, bulky
and quite heavy. Thus, while an individual may be able to easily carry a chair
because of its relatively small size and lightweight, an individual may have
much
greater difficulty in carrying a large, bulky and heavy bench. Accordingly,
two or
more people are often required to move benches. Further, conventional benches
may
not be easily stored because of their large size and weight.
1o BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A need therefore exists for tables and benches that reduces or eliminates some
or
all of the above-described disadvantages and problems.
One aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table and onf; or
more seating members, such as chairs and/or benches. Advantageously, the
seating
members may be secured to the table, which may make it easier to transport,
stone
and/or ship the table and seating members. In addition, the seating members
may be
selectively attached and detached from the table, which may allow the table
andl'or
seating members to be used in a wide range of environments and situations.
Another aspect is a table that may include one or more legs that are
2o movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to
the table
top. Advantageously, when the legs are in the extended position, the table can
be
used to support various items and/or for many different.purposes. When the
leg;> are
in the collapsed position, the table can be easily transported and stored.
Preferably,
when the legs are in the collapsed position, the legs are positioned near or
adjacent to
the tabletop. In particular, the legs are preferably positioned near or
adjacent to .a
lower surface or underneath portion of the table top. The legs may also be
removably
connected to the tabletop, if desired.
Still another aspect is a table that may include one or more legs that are
pivotally connected to the tabletop. Significantly, if the legs are pivotally
connected
3o to the tabletop, then the legs may be quickly and easily moved between an
extended
position and a collapsed position. Each of the legs may be independently
connected
to the table top so that the legs can be individually moved bet<veen the
extended and
collapsed positions. One. or more of the legs may also be interconnected to
allow the
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
3
interconnected legs to be simultaneously moved between the extended and
collapsed
positions.
A further aspect is a seating member, such as a bench, that may allovv, for
example, one or more persons to sit. The seating member may include one or
more
legs than maybe movable between an extended position and a collapsed position.
When the legs are in the extended position, the seating member can be used to
support
one or more persons andlor for many different purposes. When the legs are in
the
collapsed position, the bench can be easily transported and stored.
Preferably, the
legs are positioned near or adjacent to a lower surface or underneath portion
of t:he
to bench top when the legs are in the collapsed position. The legs may also be
removably connected to the bench top, if desired.
A still further aspect is a seating member, such as a bench, that may allow,
far example, one or more persons to sit. The seating member may include one or
more legs that are pivotally connected to the bench top. Significantly, if the
legs, are
pivotally connected to the bench top, then the legs may be quickly and easily
moved
between an extended position and a collapsed position. Each of the legs may be
independently connected to the bench top so that the legs can be individually
mewed
between the extended and collapsed positions. One or more of the legs may also
be
interconnected to allow the interconnected legs to be simultaneously moved
betvveen
2o the extended and collapsed positions.
Another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table and a
pair of seating members, such as benches, that are preferably sized and
configured to
be used in connection with the table. Advantageously, the seating members may
be
connected to the table to allow the table and seating members to be coupled
together.
This may allow the table and seating members to be more easily carried and
transported as a single unit. Preferably, the seating members are selectively
attached
to and detached from the table.
Still another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table and
a pair of seating members, such as benches, that are preferably sized and
configured
3o to be used in connection with the table. The table and seating members may
each
include legs that can be selectively moved between an extended position and a
collapsed position. Advantageously, the seating members may be connected to
the
table to allow the table and seating members to be coupled together.
Desirably, the
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
4
seating members are connected to the table when the legs of the table and
seating;
members are in the collapsed position. This may allow the table and seating
members
to be more easily carried and transported as a single unit. Preferably, the
seating;
members are selectively attached to and detached from the table.
s Yet another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with
one or more independently deployable seating members, such as benches, in
which
the benches that can be selectively attached and detached from the table. The
benches
may be selectively attached to the table top to allow, far example, the table
and
benches to be easily transported and stored. The benches can also be
selectively
1 o detached from the table top to allow the table and benches to be used.
Advantageously, the table and benches may form part ~af an integral system
that may
be easy to transport, use and store. Desirably, two benches are used in
connection
with the table to allow individuals to sit on both sides of the table and the
benches
may be independently connected to the table to allow either or both benches to
be
15 selectively attached or detached from the table. The benches, however, do
not have to
be independently connected to the table.
A further aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with e~ne
or
more seating members, such as benches. The table may include one or more
receiving portions that are sized and configured to receive all or a portion
of the
2o benches when the benches are attached to the table. For example, if the
apparatu~.s or
system includes two benches, the table may include two receiving portions that
axe
sized and configured to receive the benches. On the other hand, for example,
the; table
could include one receivi~ag portion that is sized and configured to receive
both
benches. The receiving portions may allow the benches to be integrally stored
within
25 and/or attached to a portion of the table.
A still further aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with
one or more seating members, such as benches, and the benches may be stored
within
or attached to the table. Advantageously, this may allow the table to be used
while
the benches are stored within or attached to the table. For example, in
certain
3o situations, seating is not required when the table is being used for
serving, displaying,
and the like. Accordingly, if desired, the benches may be attached to the
table while
the table is being used. Because the benches may be attached to the table
white the
table is being used, the benches do not require storage space or create an
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
inconvenience for the user. The benches, however, could be removed and stored
separately from the table and just the table portion of the system could be
used, if
desired.
Another further aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with
one or more seating members, such as benches, that can be selectively attached
aind
detached from the table. Advantageously, this creates a table with its own
seating. In
addition, because the benches are preferably separate from the table, this
allows the
benches to be used independently from the table. Accordingly, the table and
benches
may be used together as a group, or the table and benches may be used
separateI;y.
to This may allow the table and/or benches to be used in a wide variety of
situations and
environments. This may also increase the potential uses of the table and/or
benches,
and allow the table andJo~- benches to be used for a number of different
purposes.
Another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one or
more seating members, such as benches, that can be selectively attached and
detached
15 from the table. The table may include a frame that may be sized and
configured to
increase the strength and/or rigidity of the table. The frame may also be
sized ar.~d
configured to allow one or more benches to be selectively attached to the
table, a.nd/or
to facilitate attached of the legs to the table. The frame, for example, may
include two
side rails that are disposed along the sides of the table. Desirably, all or a
portion of
2o the benches may be disposed between the side rails of the frame when the
benches are
attached to the table. All or a portion of the benches may also be disposed
between
the table legs and the frame when the benches are attached to the table. While
the
frame may be used to reinforce the table so that it can support a large amount
of
weight or force may be applied to the table, the frame could also be used to
simply
25 facilitate attachment of the table legs to the table and/or attachment of
the benchE;s to
the table.
Another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one or
more seating members, such as benches, that can be selectively attached and
detached
from the table. The benches may include a frame that may be sized and
configured to
3o increase the strength and/or rigidity of the benches. por example, the
frame may
include two side rails that are disposed along the sides of the table and the
bench legs
may be pivotally connected to the frame. When the bench legs are in the
collapsed
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
6
position, all or a portion of the bench legs may be disposed between the side
rails of
the frame, if desired.
Still another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with
one or more seating members, such as benches, that can be selectively attached
and
s detached from the table. The table and/or benches may include one or more
components, such as posts, channels and/or grooves, which may be used to help
secure the benches to a table. For example, one or more posts may be attached
to a
table top and the pasts may include one or more flanges that may be configured
to
engage portions of a bench top. In addition, one or more channels or grooves
may be
formed in the bench tops and these channels may be sized and configured to
engage
portions of the posts. The channels may be positioned at or near the edge of
the
benches and the channels may help secure the benches to the table.
A further aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one
or
more seating members, such as benches, that can be selectively attached and
detached
is from the table and one or more clips may be used to help secure the benches
to a
table. 'The clips, for example, may be attached to a table top and may be
adaptedt to
receive one or more portions of a bench. In addition, the clips may be
bendable,
flexible or deformable to allow the benches to be attached to the table.
Another aspect is an apparatus or system that rnay include a table with one or
2o more seating members, such as benches, that can be selectively attached and
detached
from the table and the table may include a cavity that is sized and confgured
to
receive at least a portion of the table frame and/or benches. The cavity is
preferably
located in the lower portion of the table top and the cavity may be at least
partiality
defined by a lip that extends do~vnwardly from the tabletop. The downwardly
2s extending lip is preferably disposed about the perimeter of the tabletop,
but the lip
may also be spaced inwardly from the perimeter of the tabletop. The lower
portion of
the lip is preferably generally disposed within the same plane and all or a
portion of
the table frame and/or benches may be disposed between the lower portion of
the
table top and the plane generally aligned with the lower portion of the lip.
The cavity,
3o however, could also consist of any sized depression, opening, etc. formed
in the table
top and the table frame or benches do not have to be di sposed within the
cavity.
Additionally, the table top does not require either a lip or a cavity and, for
example,
CA 02481451 2004-10-04 ,
7
the benches could be directly attached to the table tap by one or more clips,
latclhes,
collars, and the like.
A still further aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table
with one or more seating members, such as benches, that can be selectively
attached
and detached from the table. Desirably, when the benches are secured to the
table, the
table top and the benches may be sized and configured to facilitate stacking,
shilaping
and(or storing of the table and benches. For example, the upper surface of the
table
top may be generally parallel to the upper surface of the benches when the
benches
are in the stored position.. On the other hand, for example, the upper surface
of t:he
to table top may be generally parallel to the lower surface of the benches
and/or lel;s of
the benches when the benches are in the stored position.
Still another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with
one
or more seating members, such as benches, that can be selectively attached and
detached from the table and that can be carried and moved together as a unit.
The
apparatus or system may include a handle or grip to allow the table and
benches to be
moved and carried more easily. The handle may be attached to one side of the
table
and the handle may be attached to a portion of the table frame. The handle may
also
be pivotally attached to the table and/or the table frame for convenience and
ease of
use. The handle may also be constructed from flexible material, such as
fabric, i;f
2o desired.
Still yet another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table
with one or more seating members, such as benches, that can be selectively
attached
and detached from the tahle and the table and/or benches may be relatively
small
and/or lightweight. This may facilitate storage, movement and/or
transportation of
the apparatus or system. The apparatus or system may also be sized and
configured
so that it does not take up any unnecessary space.
Another aspect is a table andJor benches that may be constructed from a
lightweight material, which may allow a single person to readily lift and move
the
table and/or benches. For example, the table top and bench tops may be
constructed
3o from lightweight materials, such as plastic, but the table top and bench
tops may be
constructed from other materials with suitable characteristics. Desirably, the
table top
and bench tops are constructed from blow molded plastic, and the blow molded
plastic table top and bench tops may be designed to create rigid, high-
strength
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
g
structures that are capable of withstanding repeated use and wear.
Advantageously,
the blow-molded plastic table top and bench tops may be easily manufactured
and
formed into the desired shapes and sizes. In addition, the blow-molded plastic
table
top and bench tops may form structural components ofthe table and/or bench,
which
may minimize the number of components required to construct the table or
bench. If
desired, all or a portion of the table top and/or bench tops may be filled
with materials
such as expanded polymeric materials, including expanded polystyrene, expanded
urethane and the like.
Advantageously, the table and/or one or more benches rnay be durable,
lightweight, straightforward to manufacture and strong. For example, if the
table top
and bench tops are constructed from blow-molded plastic, the table top and
bench
tops may include two opposing walls that are spaced apart by a relatively
small
distance, which may increase the strength and rigidity of the table top and
bench tops.
The blow-molded plastic table top and bench tops 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
and
bench tops may be relatively rigid, weather resistant and temperature
insensitive.
Additionally, the blow-molded plastic table top and bench tops may not
corrode, rust
or otherwise deteriorate over time: Further, the blow-molded table top and
bench tops
2o can also be formed in various shapes, sizes, configurations and designs.
The table top
and/or bench tops, however, may also be constructed using other suitable
methods or
processes such vacuum molding, injection molding, tumble molding, and the
like, and
the table top and/or bench tops may be constructed using other suitable
materials.
In addition, the table and one or more benches may be quickly and easily
assembled, which may reduce manufacturing and labor costs. Further, the table
and
one or more benches may be used in wide variety of situations and uses. For
example, the table andJor benches may be used as a portable picnic table that
can be
used and readily stored. The table and/or benches may also be used in
connection
with various outdoor activities such as camping, watching sporting events, and
the
like. In addition, the table and/or benches can be used to support various
items such
as a television, computer, sewing machine, microwave, lamp, luggage, and the
like;
and the table and/or benches may be used while performing a wide variety of
tasks
such as reading, writing, studying, working, etc. Thus, the table, the bench,
or both
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
9
can be used in a number of different environments and can perform numerous
different tasks.
Another aspect is a table and bench system that may include benches that
can be selectively attached and detached to the table to facilitate moving and
transport
of the system. The table and bench system may include a first bench with a
bench top
and one or more legs movable relative to the bench top between a collapsed
position
and an extended position and a second bench with a bench top and one or more
legs
movable relative to the bench top between a collapsed position and an extended
position. The table and bench system may also include a table with a table top
1o including, a top, a bottom, a first side and a second side. A retaining
assembly may be
attached to the bottom of the table top and the retaining assembly may include
a first
receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion
of the first
bench when the first bench is attached to the table and a second receiving
portion that
is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bench when
the
second bench is attached to the table. A first receiving member may also be
attached
to the bottom of the table top, the first receiving member including a
receiving xrortion
that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bench
when the
first bench is attached to the table. in addition, a second receiving meyber
may be
attached to the bottom of the table top, the second receiving member including
a
2o receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a
portion of the
second bench when the second bench is attached to the table. Further, one or
more
legs may be movable relative to the table top between a collapsed position and
an
extended position.
Advantageously, the retaining assembly and the f rst receiving member
may allow the first bench to be selectively attached to the table; and the
retaining
assembly and the second receiving member allow the second bench to be
selectively
attached to the table. Preferably, the first receiving portion of the
retaining assembly
receives a portion of one side of the first bench and the first receiving
member
receives a portion of an opposing side of the f rst bench when the first bench
is
3o attached to the table; and the second receiving portion of the retaining
assembly
receives a portion of one side of the second bench and the second receiving
meynber
receives a portion of an opposing side of the second bench when the second
bench is
attached to the table. In partic~zlar, the first receiving portion of the
retaining
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
i
assembly may receive a portion of the first side of the first bench and the
first
receiving memher may receive a portion of the legs of the first bench when the
first
bench is attached to the table, and the second receiving portion of the
retaining
assembly may receive a portion of the first side of the second bench and the
second
receiving member may receive a portion of the legs of the second bench when
the
second bench is attached to the table.
The retaining assembly may include a first past and a second post that are
generally aligned along an a<~cis of the table top, and the posts may have
generally I
shaped or T-shaped configurations with the first receiving portion being
disposed on
one side of the posts and the second receiving portion being disposed on
another side
of the posts. Further, the first receiving member may include a clip that is
sized and
configured to receive a portion of the first. bench when the first bench is
attached to
the table, and the second receiving member may include a clip that is sized
and
configured to receive a portion of the second bench when the second bench is
attached
to the table. The receiving members or clips may receive at least a portion of
the legs
or end caps when the benches are attached to the table. Desirably, the top of
the first
bench is generally aligned with. the tap of the second bench when the first
and second
benches are attached to the table, and the legs of the first bench and the
legs of the
second bench are disposed generally adjacent to the legs of the table when the
first
and second benches are attached to the table.
Still another aspect is a table and bench system in which a bench can be
selectively attached and detached to the table to facilitate moving and
transport of the
system. The table and bench system may include a bench including a bench top
and
one or more legs movable relative to the bench top behveen a collapsed
position and
an extended position, a table including a table top and one or more legs
movable
relative to the table tap between a collapsed position and an extended
position, a
retaining assembly attached to the table top, the retaining assembly including
a
receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive a portion of a first
side of the
bench top when the bench is attached to the table, and a receiving member
attached to
the table top, the receiving member including a receiving portion that is
sized and
configured to receive a portion of the legs of the bench when the bench is
attached to
the table, wherein the retaining assembly and the receiving member allow the
bench
to be selectively attached and detached to the table.
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
F
r
lI
Yet another aspect is a table and bench system in which benches can be
selectively attached and detached to the table to facilitate moving and
transport of the
system. The table and bench system may include a first bench including a bench
top
and one or mare legs movable relative to the bench top between a collapsed
position
s and an extended position, and a second bench including a bench top and one
ar more
legs movable relative to the bench top between a collapsed position and an
extended
position. The table and bench system may also include a table with a table
top, one or
more legs movable relative to the table top between a collapsed position and
an
extended position, a first post attached to the table top, the first post
including a first
1o receiving portion that is sized and configured to.receive at least a
portion of the first
bench when the first bench is attached to the table, the first post including
a second
receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion
of the
second bench when the second bench is attached to the table, a second post
attached
to the table top, the second post including a first receiving portion that is
sized and
i5 configured to receive at least a portion of the first bench when the first
bench is
attached to the table, the second post including a second receiving portion
that is sized
and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bench when the
second
bench is attached to the table, a f rst clip attached to the table tap and
being sized and
configured to receive at least a portion of the first bench when the first
bench is
2o attached to the table, and a second clip attached to the table top and
being sized and
configured to receive at least a portion of the second bench when the second
bench is
attached to the table.
A further aspect is a method for attaching a bench to a table, the bench
including a bench top and one or more legs movable relative to the bench top
between
2~ a collapsed position and an extended position; the table including a table
top, one or
more legs movable relative to the table top between a collapsed position and
an
extended position, a first retaining assembly including a receiving portion, a
second
retaining assembly including a receiving portion, and a clip. The method may
include
inserting. a first portion of the bench top into the receiving portion of the
fast retaining
3o assembly and inserting a second portion of the bench top into the receiving
portion of
the second retaining assembly, and inserting a portion of the one or more legs
of the
bench into the clip to secure the bench to the table.
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
i
12
These and other aspects, features and advantages of embodiments 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
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
o drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a table and bench
system, illustrating a table and two benches that are in the extended or use
positions;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the table and bench system shown in Figure
l, illustrating the benches attached to the table and the system being carried
by a user;
15 Figure 3 is a bottom view of a portion of the table and bench system shown
in
Figure l, illustrating the table;
Figure 4 is a bottonrz view of a portion of the table and bench system shown
in
Figure l, illustrating the bench;
Figure 5 is a top view of the bench shown in Figure 4;
20 Figure 6A is an enlarged side view of a portion of the table and bench
system
shown in Figure 1, illustrating a post that rnay be used to secure one or more
benches
to the table;
Figure 6B is an enlarged side view along lines 6B-6B of a portion of the table
and bench system shown in Figure ~, illusixating a bench connected to the
table;
25 Figure 7 is an enlarged side view along lines ?-7 of a portion of the table
and.
bench system shown in Figure 9, illustrating the legs of a bench being
connected to the
table;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of a portion of the table and bench system
shown in Figure l, illustrating a bench attached to the table and a bench
being
3o attached to the table;
Figure 9 is a bottom view of the table and bench system shown in Figure 1,
illustrating the benches attached to the table;
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
13
Figure 10 is a side view of the table and bench system shown in Figure l,
illustrating the benches attached to the table; and
Figure I 1 is a side view of a portion of the table and bench system shown in
Figure l, illustrating a handle assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
As described in greater detail below, certain preferred embodiments of the
invention are generally directed towards a table and bench system. The
principles of
the present invention, however, are not limited to a table and bench system.
It will be
understood, in light of the present application, that the table and bench
system disclosed
1 o in this application can be successfully used with other types of
furniture, seating
members, and the like.
Additionally, to assist in the description of the table and bench system,
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 and bench system can
be located
~ s in a variety of desired positions -- including various angles, sideways
and even upside
down. A detailed description of the table and bench system now follows.
As shown in Figure l, an exemplary embodiment of a table and bench system 2
includes a table 4 and one or more seating members 6. The seating members 6
are
preferably benches, but other types of seating members, such as chairs and
stools, could
2o also be used in connection with the table and bench system 2.
As shown in the accompanying figures, the table and bench system 2 preferably
includes two benches 6, and the benches may be sized and configured to allow
two or
more persons to sit on a bench at one time. Desirably, this allows four or
more persons
to simultaneously sit at the table 4. It will be appreciated that the benches
6 could also
25 be larger or smaller, and the size and configuration of the benches may
depend, for
example, upon the size and configuration of the table 4. It will also be
appreciated that
the size and configuration of the benches 6 may determine the number of
persons that
could sit on the benches or at the table 4.
Each of the benches 6 preferably includes a bench top 10 and the bench tops
3o preferably have a length that is generally equal to or less than the length
of the table
top 8. The bench tops 1D, however, could have a length that is greater than
the length
of the table top 8. The bench tops 10 and the table top 8 may have a length
that is
designed to be used by trvo, four, six, eight, or any other suitable number of
people at
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
14
one time. The table top 8 preferably has a width that is at least twice as
large of the
width of the bench tops 10 to help connect the bench tops to the table 4. The
bench tops I0 and/or the table top 8 may also have a width and length that
allows a
frame, legs, and other components to be securely connected to the table 4
andlor the
s benches 6.
In one example, the table top 8 may have a length of about four, six, or eight
feet and a width of about twenty-four (24) or thirty (30) inches. In this
example, the
corresponding bench tops I O may have a length that is generally equal to or
less than
about four, six, or eight feet, respectively, so that the ends of the bench
tops 10 do not
to extend beyond the ends of the table top 10. The bench tops 10 may also have
a width
that is generally equal to or less than about twelve (12) or fifteen (15)
inches,
respectively, which may be generally equal to or less than about one-half the
width of
the table top 8. This may allow, for example, two benches to be connected to
the
table top 8 in a side-by-side manner. In another example, the table top 8 may
have a
is width of about twenty-six (26) inches and a length of about forty-two (42)
inches, and
the bench tops 10 may have a width of about nine (9) inches and a length of
about
thirty-four (34) inches. It will be appreciated that the table top 8 and the
bench tops
could have any other suitable sizes, widths, and lengths depending, for
example,
upon the intended use of the benches 6 and/or the table 4. It will also be
appreciated
2o that the table top 8 and bench tops IO could be larger or smaller, or have
other suitable
configurations depending, for exarnpIe, upon the interrelationship between the
table 4
and benches 6.
The table 4 and the benches 6 may include one or more legs that are movable
between an extended or use position and a collapsed or storage position.
25 Advantageously, as described in detail below, when the table legs and bench
legs are in a
collapsed position, some or all of the benches 6 may be attached to the table
4 (as shown
in Figure 2). Significantly, when the benches 6 are attached to the table 4
and the table
and bench legs are in the collapsed position, that may allow the table and
benches to be
moved and stored as a single unit. On the other hand, when the benches 6 are
not
3o attached to the table 4 and the table legs and bench legs are in m extended
position (as
shown in Figure 1), the table 4 and benches 6 may be used for any suitable
purpose.
Thus, for example, the benches 6 may be used to allow one or more persons to
sit at the
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
table 4. Alternatively, the table 4 and benches 6 may be used separately and
independently, if desired.
The table top 8 and bench tops 10 are preferably constructed from plastic that
is blow-molded into the desired shape and configuration. Advantageously, the
blow
s molded plastic table top 8 and bench tops 10 may allow strong, durable and
lightweight tables and benches to be quickly and e~caently manufactured.
The blow-molded plastic table top 8 and bench tops 10 may also include one
or more depressions ar tack-offs to further increase the strength of the table
top and/or
interconnect spaced apart walls. The depressions are preferably located in the
lower
10 or underneath portions of the table top 8 and bench tops 10, but the
depressions may
be located in any suitable portions of the table top andlor bench tops. The
depressions
preferably include a distal end that is disposed near or contacts an opposing
surface
and, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the depressions preferably cover at least a
substantial portion of tlae lower surface of the table top 8 and bench tops
10. The
~s table top 8 and bench tops 10, however, could include any suitable number
of
depressions in any desired pattern or configuration. Additional details
regarding the
size, shape, and configuration of depressions that may be suitable for use in
connection with a table top are disclosed in United States patent application
serial no.
10/409,000, entitled High-strength, Lightweight Blow-molded Plastic
Structures,
2o which was filed April 8, 2003, and is hereby incorporated by reference in
its entirety.
Of course, the depressions may have other suitable shapes, sizes and
configurations
depending, for example, upon the intended use and/or design of the table 4 or
benches
6. Further, neither the table top 8 nor the bench tops 10 require any
depressions,
which are optional.
2s It will be appreciated that other suitable materials and processes may be
used
to construct the table top 8 and bench tops 10. For example, the table top 8
and
bench tops 10 may also be constructed from wood, metal, or any other suitable
material. In addition, the table top 8 and bench tops 10 may be formed by any
suitable method or manufacturing process such as injection molding, vacuum
3o forming, tumble molding, rotary molding and the like. It will also be
appreciated that
the table top 8 and bench tops 10 are not required to be manufactured using
the same
or similar methods, processes or materials. For example, the table top 8 could
be
constructed from blow-molded plastic, and the bench tops 10 could be formed
from
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
16
vacuum or injection molded plastic. Similarly, it will also be appreciated
that each of
the bench tops IO are not required to be manufactured using the same or
similar
processes.
The table 4 may include one or more Legs or pairs of legs that may be movable
relative to the table top 8 between an extended position in which the Legs
extend
out<vardly from the table top (as shown in Figure I) and a collapsed position
in which
the legs are positioned near or adjacent to the table top (as shown in Figures
2 and 3).
In particular, as best seen in Figure 3, the table 4 may include a first pair
of table legs
12 and 14 and a second pair of table legs 16 and 18, which may be disposed
near
io opposing ends of the table top 8. Further, the first pair of table legs 12
and 14 and the
second pair of table legs 16 and 18 maybe offset to allow the legs to be moved
between the extended and collapsed positions. Of course, the table legs I2,
14, 16,
and 18 may be disposed in any other suitable location or manner, and the table
may
include any suitable number of legs.
1s As shown in Figure 3, the pair of legs may be connected by one or more
cross
braces, crossbars, or the like. For example, the first pair of legs I2 and 14
may be
connected by a first cross brace 20 (which may be located proximate to a first
end of
the table top 8) and a second cross brace 22 (which may be disposed away from
the
first end of the table top 8). Similarly, the second pair of legs 16 and 18
may be
2o connected by a first cross brace 24 (which may be located proximate to a
second end
of the table top 8) and a second cross brace. 26 (which may be disposed away
from the
second end of the table top 8). It will be appreciated that any suitable
number and
locations of cross braces may be used to connect the legs depending, for
example;
upon the intended use or design of the table 4. It will also be appreciated
that the
2s crass braces are optional and that the table 4 does not require the use of
any particular
number or location of cross braces.
The lower surface or underneath portion of the table top 8 may include one or
more grooves or channels that are sized and configured to receive one or more
of the
legs 12, 14, 16, 18 andlor cross braces 20, 22, 24 ,26 when the table legs are
in a
3o collapsed position. Advantageously, the grooves may allow the table legs
12, 14, I6,
18 to contact or be folded against the lower surface or underneath portion of
the table
top 8. This may also allow the table legs I2, I4, 16, 18 to be positioned
adjacent to or
near the lower portion of the table top 8 when the legs are in the collapsed
position.
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
17
The grooves may facilitate stacking of the table 4 andlor attachment of the
benches 6
to the table top 8. The grooves, however, are not required.
'fhe table 4 may include a frame and the frame is desirably connected to the
Lower surface or underneath portion of the table top 8. The frame may include
two side
rails 28 and 30, which may consist of elongated members that extend generally
the entire
length of the table top 8 and the side rails may be disposed generally along
the sides of
the table top 8. The side rails 28 and 30 are preferably constructed from
metal, such as
steel, and the side rails preferably have a generally L-shaped configuration.
The side
rails 28 and 30, however, could have other suitable sizes and configurations,
and the
1o side rails could be constructed from other materials with appropriate
characteristics.
Advantageously, the side rails 28 and 30 may be sized and configured to
increase the
strength and/or rigidity of the table top 8, if desired, and the table legs
12, 14,16, 18
may be pivotally attached to the side rails. The legs 12, 14, 16, 18, however,
could be
connected to any suitable portion of the table top 8 and the frame could have
other
15 suitable sizes and configurations.
As shown in Figure 3, the table 4 may include a recess or cavity in the Lower
portion of the tabletop 8 and the recess may be bounded on one or more sides
by a lip.
The Iip is preferably disposed about the outer perimeter of the table top 8,
but the lip
could be spaced inwardly from the edge of the tabletop. It will be understood
that the
2o recess does not have to be bounded by the lip, and the table top 8 could
include more
than one recess. Advantageously, aII or a portion of the table frame may be
generally
disposed within the recess, which may generally hide the frame from view by a
user
of the table 4. Thus, visual defects or other imperfections in the frame may
be hidden
from view of the user. In addition, because the frame is generally hidden from
view,
25 the frame may not have to be finished such as by painting. The table 4,
however, does
not require a frame, a recess, a downwardly extending lip, or that the frame
be
disposed within the recess.
In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 3, one or both of the side rails
28 and 30 may include one or more offset portions, which may advantageously
3o dispose the table legs 12 and 14 in an offset relationship with respect to
the table legs
16 and I8. For example, the side rail 30 may include a first portion 32 which
may
lead to a first curvilinear portion 34. The first curvilinear portion 34 may
lead to a
second curvilinear portion 36 which may lead to a second portion 38.
Accordingly, as
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
I8
shown in Figure 3, the first portion 32 may be disposed offset with respect to
the
second portion 38. Thus, the second portion 38 may be disposed closer to a
first edge
of the table top 8 with the first portion 32 disposed farther from the first
edge of the
table top. Similarly, the first portion 32 may be disposed closer to a second,
opposing
s edge of the table top 8 with the second portion 38 disposed farther from the
second,
opposing edge of the table top. It will be appreciated that the first portion
32 may be
disposed offset with respect to the second portion 38 in any other suitable
manner. As
shown in the accompanying figures, the first portion 32 is preferably
generally
parallel to the second portion 38, but the first and second portions could be
at any
1o desired angles or configurations, including generally straight. It will be
appreciated
that the side rail 30 does not require any offset portions, which are
optional. One
skilled in the art will appreciate that the side rail 28 may have a similar
configuration,
if desired.
As shown in Figure 3, the table leg 14 may be positioned proximate the
is second portion 38 of the side rail and the table leg I8 may be positioned
proximate the
first portion 32 of the side rail. Thus, the table legs 14 and legs 18 may be
located in
an offset position when the legs are in the collapsed position.
Advantageously, the
offset position may allow the legs 14 and I8 to be positioned near or adjacent
to each
other when the legs are in the collapsed position. The offset position may
also allow
2o the legs 14 and 18 to have a length that is approximately the length of the
table top 8.
Of course, the legs I4 and 18 could also be adjustable in height, if desired.
In
addition, the table legs 14 and legs 18 could also be located in other
suitable locations
and used in connection with suitable components. Further, the table legs 14
and 18 do
not require an offset position, which is optional. As shown in the
accompanying
2s figures, the side rail 28 and the table legs 12 and 16 may have a similar
configuration
to the side rail 30 and the table legs 14 and 18. The side rail 28 and the
table legs 12
and I6 may also have other suitable configurations and arrangements depending,
for
example, upon the design and/or intended use of the table 4.
As shown in Figure 3, the table legs 12, 14, i 6, and 18 may be pivotally
3o connected to the table top 8 and/or to the frame using one or more braces.
For
example, the cross brace 20 may be pivotally connected to the table top 8
and/or to
the frame by braces 40 and 42, and the cross brace 24 may be pivotally
connected to
the table top and/or to the frame by braces 44 and 46. One of ordinary skill
in the art
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
19
will appreciate that the table legs 12, 14, I6, I 8 may be attached to the
table top 8 or
the frame by other suitable configurations and arrangements
A slotted brace may be used to guide the table legs 12, 14, 16, 18 between the
extended and collapsed positions. The slotted brace rrzay also be used to
secure the
table legs in the extended and/or collapsed positions. For example, some or
all of the
table legs 12, 14, 16, and 18 could be secured by (and guided by) a
corresponding
slotted brace, such as, slotted braces 48, 50, 52, and 54. Advantageously, the
slotted
brace may be lightweight, relatively easy to manufacture, and easy to attach
to the
table leg. It will be understood that other types of braces and guides may be
used to
t0 assist in moving a table leg between an extended position and a collapsed
position.
Further, other types of braces and guides may be used to maintain a leg in an
extended
position, in a collapsed position, or in both. Of course, braces are not
required to
assist in moving a leg in any particular fashion or in securing a leg in any
particular
position.
15 The table legs 12, 14, I6, 18 and the cross braces 20, 22, 24, 26 may be
constructed from hollow metal tubes because metal tubes are relatively strong
and
lightweight. Desirably, the table legs I2, 14, 16, 18 and the cross braces 20,
22, 24,
26 are constructed from steel, but other materials with suitable
characteristics may
also be used to construct the table legs 12, 14, 16, 18 and/or the cross
braces 20, 22,
20 24, 26. While the table legs 12, 14, I6, I8 preferably have a generally
oblong cross-
section and the cross braces 20, 22, 24, 26 preferably have a generally
circular cross-
section, it will be appreciated that the table legs and the cross braces could
have any
suitable shapes and configurations depending, for example, upon the type of
material
used to construct the legs or the cross braces, the intended use or design of
the table 4,
25 or other appropriate factors.
As shown in the accompanying figures, the benches 6 may include one or
more legs and the Pegs are preferably movable between an extended position and
a
collapsed position relative to the bench tops 1Ø For example, as seen in
Figure 4, the
bench 6 may include a first pair of bench Legs 56 and 58 and a second pair of
bench
30 legs 60 and 62, which may be disposed near opposing ends of the bench top
10. Of
course, the bench legs 56, 58, 60, and 62 may be disposed in any other
suitable
location or manner. The bench 6 may include a frame and one or more the bench
legs
S6, 58, 60, 62 may be attached to the frame, if desired. The frame may include
side rails
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
64 and 66 and the side rails may be generally disposed along the sides of the
bench top
10. The side rails 64 and 66 are preferably constructed from metal, and the
side rails
preferably extend along the length of the bench top i 0. The side rails 64 and
66,
however, could be constructed from other materials with appropriate
characteristics,
s and the side rails may extend along only a portion of the bench top 10. In
addition,
the frame does not require the use of the side rails 64 and 66, and the frame
could
have other suitable configurations and arrangements. In fact, the benches 6 do
not
require either the side rails 64, 66 or a frame. Further, while the bench legs
S6, 58,
64, 62 may be connected to the frame, the Iegs could be attached to any
suitable
t 0 portions of the bench 6. An optional brace may be used to secure one or
more of the
bench legs 56, 58, 60, 62 in the extended and/or collapsed positions.
As shown in Figure 4, the bench 6 may include a recess or cavity in the lower
surface or underneath portion of the bench top 10. The recess may be bounded
on one
or more sides by a lip that extends downwardly from a lower surface or portion
of the
t s bench top 1 Q. The lip is preferably disposed about the outer perimeter of
the
bench top 10, but the lip could be spaced inwardly from the edge of the
tabletop. It
will be understood that the recess does not have to be bounded by the lip, and
the
bench top 10 could include more than one recess. The bench frame is preferably
generally disposed within the recess in the Iower portion of the bench top 10.
2o Advantageously, if the bench frame is generally disposed within the recess,
then the
frame is generally hidden from view by a user of the bench 6. Thus, visual
defects or
other imperfections in the frame may be hidden from view of the user. 1n
addition,
because the frame is generally hidden from view, the frame may not have to be
finished such as by painting.
2s When the bench legs 56, 58, 60, 62 are in the collapsed position, all or a
portion of the legs may be disposed within the recess. Additionally, alI or a
portion of
the legs may be disposed between the side rails 64, 66 of the bench frame when
the
legs 56, 58, 60, 62 are in the collapsed position. For example, as seen in
Figure 4,
when the Iegs 56, 58, b0, 62 are in the collapsed position, one end of the
legs may be
generally disposed in the recess and between the side rails 64, 66 of the
frame and the
other end of the legs may not be disposed in the recess or between the side
rails of the
frame. It will be appreciated that one or more bench legs 56, 58, 60, 62 may
be
disposed partially within, completely within, or outside of the recess; andlor
disposed
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
21
partially between, completely between or outside of the side rails 64, 66 of
the frame
depending, for example, on the intended purpose of the bench 6.
As shown in Figure 4, the benches 6 may include a first pair of bench legs 56,
58 that are spaced apart from a second pair of bench legs 60, 62, and the
first and
second pairs of bench legs may be attached to the bench top 10. The first pair
of
bench legs 56, 58 and the second pair of bench legs 60, 62 may be
interconnected by
one or more crossbars or cross braces. For example, the bench legs 56, 58 may
be
interconnected by a cross brace 68 and the cross brace may be attached to the
frame
and/or to the bench top 10. Similarly, the second pair of bench legs 60, 62
znay be
zo interconnected by a cross brace 70 and the cross brace may be attached to
the frame
and/or to the bench top l0. It will be appreciated that bench legs 56, 58, 60,
62 may
be movable relative to the bench top 10 without using a cross brace or cross
bar. It
will also be appreciated that the bench legs 56, 58, 60, 62 may also have
other suitable
az~rangements and designs depending, for example, accordingly to the design
and
configuration of the bench 6 and/or table 4. For example, a pair of bench legs
may
comprise a single support, which may be curved or at an angle.
The bench legs S6, 58, 60, 62 may be connected to one or more support
members, such as a foot. For example, the first pair of bench legs 56, 58 may
be
connected to a foot 72, and the second pair of bench legs 60, 62 may be
connected to
2o a foot 74. One or more end caps may be connected to the each foot and the
end caps
may be sized and configured, for example, to prevent foreign objects from
entering
the feet and/or to create a non-slip surface. Far example, end caps 76 and 78
may be
connected to opposing ends of the foot 72, and end caps 80 and 82 may be
connected
to opposing ends of the foot 74. The end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 are preferably
constz~ucted from plastic and are slidably attached to the ends of the feet.
The benches
legs 56, 58, 60, 62, however, do not require the feet.
As shown in Figure 4, an exemplary embodiment the bench 6 includes the first
pair of bench legs 56, 58 connected near one end of the bench top 10 and the
second
pair of bench legs 60, 62 connected near the opposing end of the bench top.
The foot
72 is connected to the end of the first pair of bench Legs 56, 58 and the foot
74 is
connected to the end of the second pair of bench legs 60, 62. In this
embodiment, the
ends of the feet 72, 74 extend beyond the side rails 64, 66 of the frame and
beyond the
outer edges of the bench cop 10. Thus, in this embodiment, when the legs 56,
58, 60,
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
i
22
62 are ire a collapsed position, the ends of the feet 72, 74 and the end caps
76, 78, 80,
82 are generally not positioned within the recess in the lower portion of the
benches
or disposed between the side rails 64, 66 of the frame. In addition, the ends
of the feet
72, 74 and the end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 may at least partially extend beyond
the lip
and/or outer edges of the bench tops 10. Advantageously, when the legs 56, 58,
60,
62 are in the collapsed position, the feet 72, 74 and the end caps 76, 78, 80,
82 may be
positioned in a contacting relationship with at least a portion of the side
rails 64, 66
and/or a portion of the lower surface or underneath portions of the bench top
10. This
may help minimize the height of the bench 6 when the legs 56, 58, 60, 62 are
in the
Io collapsed position.
The benches 6 may include one or more lips that extend downwardly from the
bench tops 10. For example, the benches 6 may include lips 84, 86 that are
positioned
at or near an outer edge of the bench top 10, but the lips could be inwardly
spaced
from the outer edge of the bench tops. The lips 84, 86 may help form part of
the
1s recess in the underneath portion of the bench tops 10 and the Lips
preferably include a
lower surface that is spaced apart from a lower surface 88 of the bench top
10. When
the feet 72 and 74 are in a collapsed position, the feet and/or the end caps
may contact
a portion of the lips 84, 86.
It will be appreciated that the feet 72, 74 and end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 could
be
2o at least partially disposed within one or more openings, depressions,
grooves,
channels, and the like that are formed in the bench top 10 and/or the frame.
This may
allow the feet 72, 74 and end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 to be positioned adjacent to
a lower
surface or underneath portion of the bench top 10.
The bench legs 66, 58, 60, 62 and the feet '72, 74 of the benches may be
2s constructed from metal such hollow steel tubes with generally circular
cross-sections.
Advantageously, the tubular legs 56, 58., 60, 62 and feet 72, 74 may be
relatively
strong and lightweight. The bench legs 56, 58, 60, 62 and feet 72, 74 may also
have
other suitable shapes and be constructed from other suitable materials with
suitable
characteristics.
3o The benches 6 are preferably selectively attached to the table 4 to allow
the
table and benches to be easily stored and transported. For example; as seen in
Figure
2, the benches 6 are preferably attached to the underneath portion of the
table 4 and
the underneath portions of the benches are preferably disposed adjacent to the
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
23
underneath portion of the table top 8. It will be appreciated, however, that
the upper
portions of the benches ~a may be disposed adjacent to the underneath portion
of the
table top 8 if desired. Desirably, the benches 6 are attached to the table 4
so that at
Least a portion of the benches touch or contact the table so that the height
of the table
s and bench.system may be minimized. The benches f, however, may also be
spaced
apart from the table 4 if desired. In addition, when the benches 6 are
attached to the
table 4, the upper portions of the benches G are preferably generally aligned
so that a
generally planar surface is created. The upper portions of the benches 6 may
also be
positioned generally parallel to the upper portion of the table top 8.
Advantageously,
1o this configuration may help facilitate stacking of the table and bench
system and
packaging of the table and bench system.
The benches 6 may also be attached to the table 4 such that all or a portion
of
the benches may be disposed within the recess in the lower portion of the
table top 10
and/or beyond the plane formed by the lower portion of a downwardly extending
lip.
15 The benches 6 could also be attached to the table 4 such that all or a
portion of the
benches 6 are disposed outside of any recesses former! in the table top and/or
beyond
the plane formed by the lower portion of a downwardly extending lip.
Additionally,
the benches 6 could also be attached to the table 4 such that the benches 6
are
disposed between the side rails of the bench frame and/or the table legs. Of
course,
2o the benches b could also be attached to the table 4 such that at least a
portion of the
benches 6 are disposed outside of the side rails of the bench frame and/or the
table
legs. The benches 6 may also be individually attached to the table 4 to allow
individual benches to be selecti vely connected and disconnected from the
table. Of
course, the various components of the table and bench system may be positioned
in
25 other suitable arrangements and configurations.
The benches b are preferably connected to the table 4 using one or more clips,
Latches, or posts, which may be disposed towards the center of the lower
portion the
table top 8 or in any other suitable location. For example, as seen in Figure
3, the
table and bench system may include two posts 90 and 92, according to an
exemplary
3o embodiment of the invention. As best seen in Figure 6A, the posts 90 and 92
may
have a generally I-shaped cross section and each post may include one or more
receiving portions that are sized and configured to facilitate attachment of a
bench 6
to the table 4. In particular, the posts 90 and 92 preferably have a height
that allows a
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
t
24
channel or groove formed in the bench top 10 (such as, channels 94, 96, 98,
and 100
shown in Figure 5) to securely or snuggly engage at Ieast a portion of a
receiving
portion of the posts.
The posts 90 and 92 are preferably constructed from a relatively strong and
strudy material such as certain plastics, metals, or the Iike, but other
materials with
suitable characteristics may also be used. The posts .90 and 92 may be
connected to
the table top 8 using a snap fit, a friction fit, an interference fit, or the
like. Further,
the posts 90 and 92 may be connected to the table top 8 by one or more screws,
but
other types of fasteners, adhesives and the like may also be used to attach
the posts 90
io and 92 to the table top 8. The posts 90 and 92 are preferably generally
aligned along
a center axis of the table top I0 and towards the center of the table top 10,
knit the
posts 90 and 92 could be connected to any suitable portion of the table 4
depending,
for example, upon the size and configuration of the benches 6 and table 4.
Additionally, the posts 90 and 92 could have other shapes and configurations
depending, for example, upon the size and shape of the benches 6 and intended
use of
the table 4.
When the benches 6 are attached to the table 4, the benches may be positioned
adjacent to or in contact with the side rails 28 and 30 of the frame; the lip
of t1e table
top.l0; the table legs 12, 14,16, 18; the cross braces 20, 22, 24, and 26;
and/or other
2o portions of the table 4. Accordingly, one or both of the benches 6, when
attached to
the table 4, may advantageously restrict the movement of one or more collapsed
table
legs and/or bench legs. Thus, when one or both of the benches 6 are attached
to the
table 4, the table and bench system 2 may be advantageously transported with
less
concern that one or more of the table or bench legs may inadvertently move
from a
2s collapsed position to an extend position..
As shown in Figure 5, the bench tops may include channels or grooves 94, 96,
98, 100 that are configured to engage or otherwise mate with at least a
portion of the
posts 90, 92. The bench tops may include recessed portions I02, 104 that may
be
located at or near the sides of the bench top. The recessed portions 102, 104
may
3o present a substantially flat surface or other suitable type of surface. Of
course, the
recessed portions 102, 104 and/or the channels 94, 96, 98, 100 may be formed
at other
appropriate locations and need not be formed in the same or similar locations.
Further, the bench tops do not require the channels, grooves or recessed
portiooas.
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
a.
The channels or grooves 94, 96, 98, 100 are preferably sized and configured to
facilitate attachment of the benches 6 to the table 4. In particular, the
channels 94, 96,
98, 100 are preferably sized and configured to engage or otherwise mate with
the
posts 90, 92. Fox example, the channel 94 may engage a portion of the first
post and
s the channel 96 may engage a portion of the second post to help attach one of
the
benches 6 to the table 4. Likewise, the channel 98 may engage another portion
of the
first post and the channel 100 may engage a portion of the second post to help
secure
the other of the benches to the table 4. The channels 94, 96, 98, 100 may have
other
suitable arrangements and configurations depending, for example, upon the size
and
location of the posts 90, 92.
The pasts 90, 92 preferably have the same general configuration and, in
particular, the posts preferably have the same general configuration as shown
in
Figure 6A. Thus, while the post 90 will be described in detail below, the post
92
preferably has the same general configuration. It will be appreciated that the
posts 90,
Is 92 may also have other suitable configurations depending, for example, upon
the size
and design of the table 4 and/or benches 6.
As shown in Figure 6A, the post 90 includes a central portion with two
outwardly extending flanges 106 and 108. The central portion and the outwardly
extending flanges 106 and 108 are preferably arranged into a generally T-
shaped
2o configuration, but the post 90 could have other suitable configurations.
The ends of
the flanges 106, 108 may include a lip or ridge 110, 112, respectively, and
the lips are
preferably spaced apart from the central portion of the post 90. In
particular, the post
90 may include an inner portion 114 disposed behveen the tip 110 and the
central
portion of the post and an inner portion 116 disposed between the lip 112 and
the
25 central portion of the post. The lips 110, 112 preferably extend along
substantially the
entire length of the flanges 1 I0, 112, but the lips may extend along only a
p~artion of
the length of the flanges. As shown in the accompanying figures, the post 90
preferably has a generally symmetrical configuration because, as discussed
below,
that may allow a bench to be connected to each side of the post. The post 90,
3o however, does not have to be generally symmetrical if, for example, a bench
is not
intended to be connected to each side of the post.
The post 90 may include one or more outwardly extending members that may,
for example, facilitate attachment of the post to the table 4 and/or increase
the
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
26
stability of the post. In particular, the post 90 preferably includes a first
outwardly
extending member 118 and a second outwardly extending member 120. A first
receiving portion is preferably disposed between the first outwardly extending
member II8 and the first flange I06 and a second receiving portion is
preferably
disposed between the second outwardly extending member 118 and the second
flange
108. As discussed in greater detail below, a portion of the benches 8 may be
disposed
within the first and second receiving portions when the benches are attached
to the
table 4.
The post 90 is preferably constructed from a relatively strong and sturdy
1o material, such as plastic;. The post 90 is also preferably constructed from
slightly
resilient or flexible material that facilitates insertion of a portion of the
benches 6 in to
the first and second receiving portions. In addition, the post 90 is
preferably
constructed as an integral, one-piece structure that is connected to the table
top 8 by
one or more fasteners andlor a friction, snap or interference fit. It will be
understood
that the post 90 may also be constructed from multiple components and the post
can
be connected to the table top 8 in any suitable manner.
As shown in Figure 6B, the post 90 may help connect the bench 6 to the table
4. In particular, a portion of the bench 6 may be disposed within the first or
second
receiving portion of the post 90 to help connect the bench to the table 4. For
example,
2o the portion of the bench 6 including a channel ar groove 122, such as the
channel 94,
96, 98 or 100, may be disposed within the second receiving portion of the post
90.
Desirably, at least a portion of the lip 112 is positioned within the channel
122 to help
securely connect the bench 6 to the table 4. A portion 124 of the bench top 10
may
also be disposed within the second receiving portion of the post 90.
Accordingly,
2s certain movement of the bench top 10 relative to the table 4 may be
restricted when a
portion of the bench is disposed within the receiving portions of the post 90.
The benches 6 may also be connected to the table 4 using one or more clips or
collars 126 and 128. Fox example, as seen in Figure 3, the clips 12b and 128
are
preferably positioned proximate the sides of the table top 8, but the clips
may be
3o positioned in other suitable locations. While the clips 126 and 128 are
preferably
attached to the table top 8, it will be appreciated that the clips may also be
attached to
the table frame or other suitable portions of the table 4 depending, for
example, upon
the size and configuration of the, table or benches. Because the clips 126 and
128
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
27
preferably have the same general configuration, only the clip 126 will be
discussed in
detail. It will be appreciated that the clips 126 and 128 do not have to have
the; same
configuration and the clips could have other suitable shapes, sizes and
configurations.
As best seen in Figure 7, an exemplary embodiment of the clip 126 includes
s an elongated body portion and two outwardly extending portions. Disposed
bf;tween
the outwardly extending portions of the clip 126 is an opening that is sized
and
configured to receive a portion of the bench 6. Preferably, that portion of
the bench 6
can be selectively inserted and removed from the opening to allow the bench to
be
selectively attached to the table 4. Thus, when the bench 6 is attached to the
table 4, a
1o portion of the bench 6 is inserted into the opening in the clip 126.
In greater detail, the clip 126 preferably includes an opening 130 disposed
between a first receiving portion I32 and a second receiving portion I34 and
the
opening is preferably sized and conf gured to receiving a portion of the bench
6 such
as the bench feet 72, 74 andlor end caps 76, 78, 80, 82. Desirably, the first
and
is second receiving portions 132, 134 are constructed from a flexible or
bendable
material that allow the feet 72, 74 and/or end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 to be
inserted into
the opening 130 and then the first and second receiving portions then
elastically or
resiliently return to their original positions to secure the legs and/or end
caps in a
generally fixed position. The flexible or bendable first and second receiving
portions
20 132, I34 may also deform to allow the feet 72, 74 and/or end caps 76, 78,
80, 82 to be
removed from the opening 130. Thus, the clip 126 may hold a portion of the
'bench 6
in a generally fixed position by a snap, friction or interference fit. The
clip 126 may
also have other suitable configurations depending, for example, upon the
portion of
the bench 6 desired to be held in a generally fxed position and the shape of
the bench.
2s In addition, other suitable types of dips, braces a~~d brackets may also be
used to
connect the bench 6 to the table 4.
Thus, posts 90, 92 and clips 126, 128 may be used to securely connect the
benches 6 to the table 4, which allows the table and the benches to be
transported and
stored as a single unit. Advantageously, because the table 4 and the benches 6
are
3o preferably constructed from lightweight materials, an individual may be
able to carry
the table 6 and benches 6 together. Additionally, because the benches 6 are
preferably
separately deployable from the table 4, the table and benches can be used in a
wide
variety of circumstances and environments. For example, the table 4 may be
used by
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
i
28
itself without the benches 6, the table and benches may be used
simultaneously, and
the benches may be used without the table. Thus, the table 4 and benches 6 may
be
easily transportable and highly versatile.
In order to connect the benches 6 to the table 4 sa that the table and benches
s can be transported as a single unit, one or both of the benches 6 are
positioned near
the underneath or lower portion of the table top 8. ~ne of the benches 6 is
then
positioned such that one or more of the channels 94, 96, 98, 100 are generally
aligned
with the receiving portions of the pasts 90 and 92, as generally shown in
Figure 8.
The portions of the bench 6 including the channels 94, 96, 98, 100 are then
inserted
into the receiving portions of the posts 90, 92. The bench 6 is then moved
such that a
portion of the bench is, inserted into one of the openings 130 in the clips
126, i28. In
particular, the bench 6 is moved such that a portion of the bench Feet 72 and
74 and/or
the end caps 76, 78, 80, and 82 are inserted inta the opening 130 in the clip
126, 128.
Thus, the posts 90, 92 and clips 126, 128 may be used to secure one of the
benches 6
~5 to the table 4. Similarly, the other bench 6 may be secured to the table 4.
Accordingly, both of the benches 6 may be attached to the table as shown in
Figure 9.
As shown in Figure 9, when the benches 6 are attached to the table 4, the
table
legs 12, 14, 16, I8 are preferably held in the collapsed position by the
benches. In
particular, in Order for the benches 6 to be attached to the table 4, the
table Iegs 12, 14,,
2o f6, 18 are preferably in the collapsed position. When the benches 6 are
then attached
to the table 4, the benches preferably prevent the table legs 12, I4, 16, I8
from
moving from the collapsed position to the extended position. Advantageously,
one or
both of the benches 6 rnay help secure some or all of the table Legs I2, 14,
I~6, I8 in
the collapsed position when the benches are attached to the table top. This
may help
z5 prevent the Iegs I2, I4, 16, I8 from inadvertently moving from the
collapsed to the
extended position. The benches 6, however, do nat have to be used to secure
the table
legs I2, 14, I6, I8 in the collapsed position.
In order to remove one or both of the benches 6 from the table 4, one of the
benches may be moved such that the portion of the bench is removed from the
clip
30 126, 128. In particular; the bench may be moved such that the bench feet
72, 74
and/or end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 are removed from the opening I30 in the clip
I26, 128.
As the bench feet 72, T4 andLor end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 are removed from the
opening
130, the clip 126, 128 may bend or deform such that the feet and/or end caps
are no
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
29
longer disposed within the opening. The bench 6 is then moved so that the
posts 90,
92 no longer engage the channels or grooves formed in the bench top I0. This
allows
the bench 6 to be freely moved with respect to the table 4. Similarly, the
other bench
6 can also be removed from the table 4. Once the benches 6 are removed from
the
table 4, the table legs and the bench legs rnay be pivoted into the extended
or use
positions to allow the table 4 and the benches 6 to be used.
As shown in Figure 10, when the benches 6 are secured to the table 4, the;
table
and bench system 2 is relatively compact, which may allow the system to be
easily
transported and moved. :Desirably, when the benches 6 are secured to the table
4, the
top surfaces of the benches 6 may be aligned in generally the same plane. The
benches 6 may also be attached to the table 4 such that the sides of benches 6
are
generally parallel to each other and, if desired, to the sides of the table.
In addition,
one or both of the ends of the benches 6 may be generally parallel to the each
of the
table 4. Further, the benches 6 may be attached to the table 4 such that the
benches
are located side-by-side.
When the benches 6 are secured to the table 4, the upper surfaces of the
benches 6 are preferably aligned in generally the same plane as the upper
surface of
the table. The upper surfaces of the benches 6 and the upper surface of the
table 4 are
preferably positioned in different directions. For example, as shown in Figure
2., the
2o top surfaces of the benches 6 face away from the person carrying the system
2, while
the top surface of the table 4 faces toward that person. Accordingly, as shown
in
Figure 10, when the benches 6 are attached to the table 4, the top surface of
the table
and one or both of the top surfaces of the benches may advantageously be
configured
to present generally fiat, generally parallel surfaces to facilitate stacking,
shipping,
storing, or other suitable purposes. Of course, the benches 6 may be attached
to the
table 4 in any other suitable manner, and the top surfaces of the table top 8
and the
bench tops 10 (or any other components of the table 4 and the benches 6) may
be
positioned in any other suitable configuration or relative position.
As shown in Figure 11, a handle assembly 13~ may be used to facilitate lifting
3o and/or moving the table and bench system 2. The handle assembly I36 may be
attached to a portion of table top 8 to assist a user in manipulating the
table 4 and/or
the benches 6. The handle assembly 136 may include a handle 138 and one or
more
straps, such as straps 140 and 142. The handle I38 may be constructed from a
CA 02481451 2004-10-04
generally rigid material, such as plastic, and the straps 140 and 140 are
preferably
constructed from a flexible material such as a plastic, fabric, or the Like.
The straps
140 and 142 may have a cross-sectional shape that is substantially thinner in
the fore
and aft direction and substantially wider in the side-to-side direction.
Advantageously, the handle 136 may be moved between a use position and a
retracted or storage position. The handle 138 may be positioned such that, in
a
retracted position, all or a portion of the handle 138 may be disposed within
a portion
of the outer lip or edge of the table top 8. In the use position, the handle
138
preferably extends outwardly from the table top 8 to facilitate grasping of
the handle.
io One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the handle 138 and/or
the straps
140 and 142 may be constructed from any suitable materials, such as leather,
plastic,
metal, wood, etc., and the handle need not be constructed from the same or
similar
materials as the straps 140 and 142. In addition, the straps 140 and 142 need
not be
made from the same or similar materials as each other. Further, the handle
assembly
is I36 could he attached to any suitable portion of the table 4 or benches 6,
and the table
and bench system 2 does not require the handle 136.
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.
