Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
EXPANDABLE TABLE
The present invention is directed to furniture, and more particularly to
tables that can be
expanded in length, and even more particularly to expandable patio and/or
dining furniture.
Although the present invention is particularly directed to tables, it can be
appreciated that the
invention can be used in additional applications (e.g., expandable platforms,
expandable counter
tops, expandable desks, expandable beds, expandable trays, expandable carts,
etc.).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Expandable tables are well known in the art. Examples of such tables are
disclosed in US
Patent Nos. 7,201,108; 6,742,461; 6,729,243; 6,715,429; 6,698,363; 6,666,151;
6,629,504;
6,443,074; 5,735,220; 4,878,439; 4,815,393; 4,494,466; 4,475,464; 3,033,629;
1,937,250;
1,778,666; 1,720,590; Des. 326,025; Des. 286,592; and EP 1 371 305 and EP 0
187 922 and JP
06-197814, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Prior configurations of expandable tables required the table leaves to be
inserted at the
ends of the table and/or between two separated portions of the table. For
traditional expandable
tables, the table leaves were generally stored at some location remote to the
table or were folded
under or stored under the table top. As such, the extra table leaf had to be
moved and/or lifted by
a user when inserting and removing the leaf in the table. Such moving and
lifting can be
inconvenient and difficult for many users. Many types of patio tables include
an umbrella
opening for receiving an umbrella pole. When a leaf is inserted or removed
from such types of
tables, the umbrella traditionally must be removed from the table and then
reinserted in the table
after the expansion leaf has been inserted or removed. The removal and
reinsertion of the
umbrella can be very inconvenient and difficult for many users.
In view of the current state of expandable tables, there is a need for an
expandable table
that makes it simple to expand and contract the table. For expandable tables
that are used with
umbrellas, there is a need for an expandable table that can be expanded and
contracted without
having to remove the umbrella.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to tables that can be expanded and
contracted in length,
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CA 02755009 2011-10-13
and even more particularly to expandable patio and/or dining furniture. The
table of the present
invention includes a frame, one or more legs, a first top portion and a second
top portion. In
certain non-limiting configurations of the expandable table of the present
invention, the
expandable table can also optionally include an intermediate top portion. The
first and second
top portions are designed to be movable on the frame. When the expandable
table only includes
first and second top portions, one of the top portions is designed to move at
least partially under
the other top portion when the table is in the non-expanded position. When the
expandable table
includes an intermediate top portion, the intermediate top portion is designed
to be positioned
between the first and second top portions when the table is in the expanded
position. The
number of legs used to support the frame is non-limiting. The shape and size
of the frame, legs,
first and second top portions and intermediate top portion, when used, are non-
limiting. The
materials used to form the frame, legs, first and second top portions and
intermediate top portion,
when used, are also non-limiting.
In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, when the expandable table
includes
first and second top portions and an intermediate top portion, the first and
second top portions of
the expandable both have an inner edge wherein the inner edges are positioned
next to or closely
adjacent to one another when the table is in the unexpanded position. The
intermediate top
portion has two outer edges that are positioned next to or closely adjacent to
the inner edges of
the first and second top portions when the table is in the expanded position.
At least one of the
first and second top portions, and typically both the first and second top
portions, are designed to
move toward and away from one another along the longitudinal axis of the frame
when the first
and second top portions are moved between the expanded and unexpanded
positions. The
intermediate top portion is designed to move upwardly and downwardly or in a
plane that is
normal to the longitudinal axis of the frame. When the first and second top
portions are moved
apart a sufficient distance, the intermediate top portion can be raised to
form part of the top
surface of the table. Generally, the intermediate top portion is raised so
that the top surface of
the intermediate top portion lies in the same or substantially the same plane
as the plane of the
top surfaces of the first and second top portions; however, this is not
required. Once the
intermediate top portion is raised from its stowed position, the first and/or
second top portions
can be moved toward the raised intermediate top portion until the two outer
edges of the
intermediate top portion are positioned next to or closely adjacent to the
inner edges of the first
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and second top portions. When the table is to be reconfigured to the
unexpanded position, the
intermediate top portion is moved downwardly to the stowed position and the
first and/or second
top portions are moved together until the inner edges of the first and second
top portions are
positioned next to or closely adjacent to one another. When the table is in
the unexpanded
position, the intermediate top portion is positioned and stowed below the
first and second top
portions. This novel configuration and arrangement for the intermediate top
portion enables the
intermediate top portion to be moved upwardly and downwardly when configuring
the table
between the expanded and unexpanded positions. Generally, the intermediate top
portion is
connected or interconnected to the frame to enable the intermediate top
portion to be moved
upwardly and downwardly. Generally, the intermediate top portion is designed
to not be
removed from the frame when configuring the table between the expanded and
unexpanded
positions; however, this is not required.
In still another non-limiting aspect of the invention, when the expandable
table includes
first and second top portions and an intermediate top portion, the frame of
the table includes a
movement mechanism that enables the first and second top portions to move
(e.g., slide
mechanism, roller mechanism, ball bearing mechanism, etc.) relative to the top
of the frame.
Various types of railing systems can be used to enable such movement of the
first and second top
portions relative to the frame. In one non-limiting embodiment of the
invention, the movement
mechanism does not include ball bearings; however, this is not required. In
another and/or
alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism
includes a rail
system that allows rail sections to slide or move relative to one another
without the use of ball
bearings; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative
non-limiting
embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism includes multiple rail
systems; however,
this is not required. In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting
embodiment of the invention,
the movement mechanism is designed to simultaneously cause both the first and
second top
portions to move together when the first and second top portions are moved
between the
expanded and unexpanded positions; however, this is not required. In one non-
limiting design,
the movement mechanism is designed to simultaneously cause both the first and
second top
portions to move together in opposite directions and in substantially the same
amounts and at the
same speed when the first and second top portions are moved between the
expanded and
unexpanded positions; however, this is not required. In such an arrangement,
the first and
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CA 02755009 2011-10-13
second top portions move a similar distance away from one another when the
first and second
top portions are moved to the full expanded position and move a similar
distance toward one
another when the first and second top portions are moved to the full
unexpanded position. Many
different arrangements can be used to cause the movement of both the first and
second top
portions when such top portions are moved between the expanded and unexpanded
positions.
In yet another non-limiting aspect of the invention, when the expandable table
includes
first and second top portions and an intermediate top portion, the frame of
the table includes a
movement mechanism that enables the intermediate top portion to move upwardly
to a full
upward position and downward to the stowed position as the first and second
top portions are
moved between the expanded and unexpanded positions; however, this is not
required. In one
non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism allows for
manual lifting
and/or lowering of the intermediate top portion when the first and second top
portions are moved
to a certain position; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting
arrangement, the
intermediate top portion is connected or interconnected to the frame so that
it cannot be
completely lifted off or removed from the frame when the intermediate top
portion is being
raised and/or lowered; however, this is not required. In another and/or
alternative non-limiting
embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism causes automatic lifting
and/or lowering
of the intermediate top portion when the first and second top portions are
moved to a certain
position; however, this is not required. In such an arrangement, the movement
mechanism
causes the intermediate top portion to move upwardly from the lower or stowed
position when
the first and second top portions are moved a sufficient distance away from
one another (i.e.,
toward the expanded position); however, this is not required. Many different
arrangements can
be used to cause the intermediate top portion to automatically move upwardly
and/or
downwardly (e.g., rail and slot arrangement, spring system, electric motor,
gear arrangement,
weight and/or pulley arrangement, etc.). Once the intermediate top portion has
moved upwardly,
the first and second top portions can be designed to be moved slightly toward
one another until
the outer edges of the intermediate top portion are positioned next to or
closely adjacent to the
inner edges of the first and second top portions when the table is in the
expanded position so as
to form the expandable table in the expanded orientation; however, this is not
required.
Furthermore, when the expandable table is to be positioned from the expanded
positioned to the
smaller or unexpanded position, the movement mechanism can be designed such
that when the
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first and second top portions are slightly moved apart from one another, the
intermediate top
portion is caused to move downwardly thereby enabling the first and second top
portions to
move together until the inner edges of the first and second top portions are
positioned next to or
closely adjacent to one another; however, this is not required. The design of
the automatic lifting
and/or lowering of the intermediate top portion by the movement mechanism
simplifies the
movement of the intermediate top portion when the table is configured between
the expanded
and unexpanded orientations.
In still yet another non-limiting aspect of the invention, when the expandable
table
includes first and second top portions and an intermediate top portion, the
table is designed to
enable an umbrella to be used with the table. In one non-limiting embodiment
of the invention,
the first and second top portions include a cut-out portion or recessed
portion that forms an
opening for an umbrella pole when the inner edges of the first and second top
portions are
positioned next to or closely adjacent to one another. The cut-out or recessed
portions on the
first and second top portions are generally aligned with one another so as to
form the umbrella
pole opening when the inner edges of the first and second top portions are
positioned next to or
closely adjacent to one another. In another and/or alternative non-limiting
embodiment of the
invention, the intermediate top portion includes an umbrella opening designed
to enable an
umbrella pole to pass therethrough. In one non-limiting arrangement, the
umbrella does not need
to be removed from the expandable table when the expandable table is
reconfigured between the
expanded and unexpanded orientations. This feature is a significant advantage
over prior art
tables wherein the umbrella needed to be partially or fully removed from the
table when the table
was reconfigured between the expanded and unexpanded orientations. The
expandable table of
the present invention can be designed so that the intermediate top portion
moves upwardly and
downwardly when the expandable table is reconfigured between the expanded and
unexpanded
orientations. As such, the intermediate top portion is designed to slide up
and down a portion of
the umbrella pole when the table was reconfigured between the expanded and
unexpanded
orientations, thus eliminating the need for the umbrella to be removed from
the expandable table
when the expandable table is reconfigured between the expanded and unexpanded
orientations.
In still another non-limiting aspect of the present invention, when the
expandable table
only includes first and second top portions and no intermediate top portion,
the first and second
top portions of the expandable table both have an inner edge wherein the inner
edges are
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CA 02755009 2011-10-13
positioned next to or closely adjacent to one another when the table is in the
expanded position.
The first top portion is designed to move primarily or only in a single
horizontal plane when the
table is configured between the expanded and unexpanded position; however,
this is not
required. The second top portion is designed to be positioned in a stowed
position when the
table is in the unexpanded position. When the second top portion is in the
stowed position, a
majority of all of the second top portion is positioned below the first top
portion. When the table
is to be configured to the expanded position, the first top portion is moved
away from the center
of the table frame, and the second top portion is moved in the opposite
direction of the first top
portion and then lifted or raised to the same or substantially the same plane
as the first top
portion. Thereafter, the first and second top portions can be moved together
to complete the
reconfiguration of the table from the unexpanded position to the expanded
position. When the
table is to be reconfigured to the unexpanded position, the first top portion
is moved a small or
short distance from the center of the table and the second top portion is
moved to a lower
position so that it can slide underneath the first top portion. Once the
second top portion is
moved to a lower level, the first top portion can then be moved toward the
center of the table.
Generally, both the first and second top portion are connected or
interconnected to the frame to
enable the first and second top portion to move relative to the frame and to
also enable the
second top portion to move between an upper and lower horizontal plane.
Generally, the first
and second top portions are designed to not be removed from the frame when
configuring the
table between the expanded and unexpanded positions; however, this is not
required. The first
top portion can be designed to be stationary or be movable to accommodate the
movement of the
second top portion between the stored and elevated positions. The table can
also be designed to
be used with an umbrella; however, this is not required.
In yet another non-limiting aspect of the invention, when the expandable table
only
includes first and second top portions, the frame of the table includes a
movement mechanism
that enables the first and second top portions to move (e.g., slide mechanism,
roller mechanism,
ball bearing mechanism, etc.) relative to the top of the frame. Various types
of railing systems
can be used to enable such movement of the first and second top portions
relative to the frame.
In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism does
not include
ball bearings; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative
non-limiting
embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism includes a rail system
that allows rail
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CA 02755009 2011-10-13
sections to slide or move relative to one another without the use of ball
bearings; however, this is
not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of
the invention, the
movement mechanism includes multiple rail systems; however, this is not
required. In yet
another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the
movement mechanism
is designed to allow the first and second top portions to move independently
of one another when
the first and second top portions are moved between the expanded and
unexpanded positions;
however, this is not required.
In yet another non-limiting aspect of the invention, when the expandable table
includes
only first and second top portions, the frame of the table includes a movement
mechanism that
enables the second top portion to move upwardly to a full upward position and
downward to the
stowed position as the first and second top portions are moved between the
expanded and
unexpanded positions. In one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the
movement
mechanism allows for manual lifting and/or lowering of the second top portion
when the first top
portions is moved to a certain position; however, this is not required. In one
non-limiting
arrangement, the first and second top portions are connected or interconnected
to the frame so
that both top portions cannot be completely lifted off or removed from the
frame; however, this
is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment of the
invention, the
movement mechanism causes automatic lifting and/or lowering of the second top
portion when
the first portion is moved to a certain position; however, this is not
required. In such an
arrangement, the movement mechanism causes the second top portion to move
upwardly from
the lower or stowed position when the first top portion is moved a sufficient
distance away from
the center of the table (i.e., toward the expanded position); however, this is
not required. Many
different arrangements can be used to cause the second top portion to
automatically move
upwardly and/or downwardly (e.g., rail and slot arrangement, spring system,
electric motor, gear
arrangement, weight and/or pulley arrangement, etc.). Once the second top
portion has moved
upwardly, the first and/or second top portions can be designed to be moved
slightly toward one
another until the outer edges of the two top portions are positioned next to
or closely adjacent to
the inner edges of one another when the table is in the expanded position so
as to form the
expandable table in the expanded orientation; however, this is not required.
Furthermore, when
the expandable table is to be positioned from the expanded positioned to the
smaller or
unexpanded position, the movement mechanism can be designed such that when one
or both of
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CA 02755009 2011-10-13
the top portions are slightly moved apart from one another, the second top
portion can be or
caused to be moved downwardly thereby enabling the first top portion to move
toward the center
of the table; however, this is not required. The design of the automatic
lifting and/or lowering of
the second top portion by the movement mechanism simplifies the movement of
the second top
portion when the table is configured between the expanded and unexpanded
orientations. As can
be appreciated, the movement of the first and/or second top portions can be
manual when the
table is configured between the expanded and unexpanded orientations.
In another non-limiting aspect of the invention, the first and/or second top
portions can
include engagement members (e.g., protruding flanges or legs, etc.) that
engage another top
portion so as to temporarily secure together, rigidify, stabilize, etc. the
top of the expandable
table; however, this is not required. In still another non-limiting aspect of
the invention, the
configuration of the expandable table is non-limiting. The top portions of the
table can form a
top surface of the expandable table that has generally circular
configurations, oval
configurations, square configurations, rectangular configurations, etc. The
pattern used to form
one or more of the top portions of the expandable table is non-limiting. For
example, one or
more of the top portions can include a solid surface, a slatted surface, a
glass surface, a plastic
surface, a metal surface, a cross-hatch surface, etc. The expandable table can
be made of many
types of materials (e.g., metal, wood, glass, ceramic, stone, bamboo, plastic,
etc.). As can be
appreciated, the expandable table can be made of more than one type of
material. The length,
width and/or height of the expandable table are non-limiting. The color of the
expandable table
is non-limiting.
It is one non-limiting object of the present invention to provide an
expandable table that
is simple to use.
It is another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention
to provide an
expandable table that can be reconfigured between the expanded and unexpanded
orientations
without having to remove from the frame and/or insert on the frame one or more
top portions of
the table.
It is still another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present
invention to provide
an expandable table that includes an intermediate top portion that is
connected or interconnected
to the table frame and which moves upwardly and downwardly and moves little,
if any, within
the longitudinal axis of the table frame when the expandable table is
reconfigured between the
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CA 02755009 2011-10-13
expanded and unexpanded orientations.
It is yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present
invention to provide
an expandable table that can be reconfigured between the expanded and
unexpanded orientations
without having to remove an umbrella pole.
It is another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention
to provide an
expandable table that causes the intermediate top portion to automatically
move between the
downward or stowed position and the upward position when the expandable table
is reconfigured
between the expanded and unexpanded orientations.
It is still another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present
invention to provide
an expandable table that includes only first and second top portions and the
second top portion is
slidably connected to the table frame and is moveable from a stowed position
that is beneath the
first top portion when the table is in the unexpanded position to a raised
position that is generally
level with the first top portion when the table is in the expanded position.
These and other objects and advantages will become apparent from the following
description taken together with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Reference may now be made to the drawings, which illustrate various
embodiments that
the invention may take in physical form and in certain parts and arrangements
of parts wherein;
FIGURE 1 is a front elevation view of the expandable table of the present
invention in an
unexpanded state;
FIGURE 2 is a front elevation view of the expandable table in the partially
expanded
position;
FIGURE 3 is a front elevation view of the expandable table in the partially
expanded
position;
FIGURE 4 is a front elevation view of the expandable table wherein the first
and second
top portions are in the fully expanded position and the intermediate top
portion has moved to an
upper position;
FIGURE 5 is a front elevation view of the expandable table in the expanded
position;
FIGURE 6 is a side view of the expandable table in the unexpanded position;
FIGURE 7 is a side view of the expandable table in the expanded position;
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FIGURE 8 is an exploded view of one non-limiting rail system configuration for
movement of the first and second top portions used on the expandable table;
FIGURE 9 is an assembled view of the rail system of FIGURE 8;
FIGURE 10 is a cross-section view of a portion of the expandable table wherein
the
intermediate top portion is in the lower position;
FIGURE 11 is a cross-section view of a portion of the expandable table wherein
the
intermediate top portion is in the upper position;
FIGURE 12 is a sectional view of one non-limiting rail system configuration
for the
intermediate top portion;
FIGURES 13A-H illustrate the operation of the rail system configuration for
the
intermediate top portion and how such rail system causes the intermediate top
portion to move
between the upper and lower positions;
FIGURE 14 is a front elevation view of another expandable table in the
unexpanded
position in accordance with the present invention;
FIGURE 15 is a cross-sectional view along line 15-15 of FIGURE 14;
FIGURE 16 is a cross-sectional view along line 16-16 of FIGURE 14;
FIGURE 17 is a cross-sectional view along line 17-17 of FIGURE 15;
FIGURES 18-21 are front elevation views of the expandable table of FIGURE 14
in the
partially expanded position;
FIGURE 22 is a front elevation view of the expandable table of FIGURE 14 in
the fully
expanded position;
FIGURE 23 is a cross-sectional view along line 23-23 of FIGURE 18;
FIGURE 24 is a cross-sectional view along line 24-24 of FIGURE 19;
FIGURE 25 is a cross-sectional view along line 25-25 of FIGURE 20;
FIGURE 26 is a cross-sectional view along line 26-26 of FIGURE 21;
FIGURE 27 is a cross-sectional view along line 27-27 of FIGURE 22;
FIGURES 28 and 29 is an sectional view of one corner of the expandable table
of
FIGURE 14; and,
FIGURES 30-32 illustrate an alternative rail system configuration that can be
used with
the expandable table of the present invention.
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
NON-LIMITING DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for the purpose of
illustrating
non-limiting embodiments of the invention only and not for the purpose of
limiting same,
FIGURES 1- 13 illustrate one-limiting embodiment of the expandable table of
the present
invention. The expandable table is illustrated as having a generally square
shape for the top
surface when the expandable table is in the unexpanded position. As can be
appreciated, the
shape of the top surface of the table can have many other configurations when
in the unexpanded
position (e.g., circular, oval, rectangular, etc.). The top surface of the
table is illustrated as being
solid; however, it can be appreciated that other configurations can be used
(e.g., clear top, slatted
top, cross-hatched top, etc.).
The table can be made of one or more materials (e.g., metal, glass, plastic,
ceramic,
wood, rubber, composite materials, stone, bamboo, etc.). As can be
appreciated, the expandable
table can be made of more than one type of material. The length, width and/or
height of the
expandable table are non-limiting. The color of the expandable table is non-
limiting.
The table 20 includes a frame 30. The configuration of the frame is non-
limiting. The
frame is illustrated as having four legs 40, 42, 44, 46. As can be
appreciated, the frame can
include a single leg, two legs, three legs, or more than four legs.
Reinforcing structures 50, 52,
54, 56, 58, 60 can be optionally used to connect to one or more of the legs to
rigidify the frame;
however, this is not required. The configuration of the one or more
reinforcing structures is non-
limiting. As illustrated in FIGURE 1, reinforcing structures 58, 60 are
connected together to
form an umbrella pole support opening 70. The formation of umbrella pole
support opening is
optional. The top of the legs are connected to the upper portion of the frame
so as to rigidify the
frame. As illustrated in FIGURE 6, the upper portion of the frame includes two
main side
members 62, 64 and two connector bars 66, 68.
The expandable table is positioned in the unexpanded portion as illustrated in
FIGURE 1.
The top of the expandable table is formed of first and second top portions 80,
90. An
intermediate top portion 100 is illustrated as being positioned between the
first and second top
portions. As illustrated in FIGURE 1, the inner side edges 82, 92 of the first
and second top
portions are positioned next to or closely adjacent to one another. As can be
appreciated, the
inner side edges can contact one another when the table is in the unexpanded
position; however,
this is not required. The intermediate top portion is positioned beneath the
lower edge 84, 94 of
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the first and second top portions. This position of the intermediate top
portion is considered the
lower or stowed position. Generally, the intermediate top portion is
positioned such that it is
spaced from the lower or bottom surface of the first and second top portions
when in the table is
in the unexpanded position. Such positioning of the intermediate top portion
facilitates in the
intermediate top portion not contacting the bottom of the first and/or second
top portions when
such portions are moved, thus 1) limiting damage to the first and/or second
top portions or
intermediate top portion, and/or 2) limiting interference of movement of the
first and/or second
top portions or intermediate top portion.
The intermediate top portion is illustrated as having the same or similar
length as the
width of the first and second top portions; however, this is not required.
Generally, the length of
the intermediate top portion is selected so that the front and back edges 102,
104 do not extend
beyond the front edges 86, 96 and back edges 88, 98 of the first and second
top portions;
however, this is not required. The intermediate top portion is illustrated in
the lower or stowed
position in FIGURE 1.
The expandable table can optionally be designed to be used with an umbrella.
As
illustrated in FIGURE 1 there is illustrated an umbrella pole 200 in dotted
lines. The base of the
umbrella pole is positioned in an umbrella stand 210, also in dotted lines.
The umbrella pole is
illustrated as being inserted through the umbrella pole support opening 70
formed by support
structures 58, 60. The umbrella pole also extends through umbrella opening 106
in the
intermediate top portion. The inner side edges 82, 92 of the first and second
top portions include
an umbrella recess 89, 99. When first and second top portions are positioned
in the unexpanded
position, the two umbrella recesses 89, 99 align with one another and form an
opening that the
umbrella pole can extend therethrough as illustrated in FIGURE 1. The size and
shape of
recesses 89 and 99 are generally the same. When the recesses are semi-
circular, each recess is
configured to encircle 40-60% of the outer perimeter of the umbrella pole;
however, this is not
required. A cap can be used to cover the umbrella opening when an umbrella is
not being used;
however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, when the expandable
table is not designed
to be used with an umbrella, the umbrella opening 106 in the intermediate top
portion and
umbrella recesses 89, 99 can be eliminated.
Referring now to FIGURE 2 the first and second top portions are moved in the
direction
indicated by the arrows to thereby begin separating the first and second top
portions so that the
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expandable table can be configured in the expanded position. As illustrated in
FIGURE 2, the
intermediate top portion remains in the lower or stowed position when the
first and second top
portions are initially moved apart from one another. As is also illustrated in
FIGURE 2, the
umbrella pole, when used, remains inserted in the expandable table as the
expandable table is
converted from the unexpanded to the expanded position. As will be described
in more detail
below, when the table is designed for use with an umbrella, the unique
configuration and
operation of the expandable table enables the expandable table to be moved
between the
expanded and unexpanded configurations without having to remove the umbrella
pole.
Referring now to FIGURE 3, the first and second top portions have been moved
apart a
distance that is generally equal to the width of the intermediate top portion.
The top intermediate
top portion is illustrated as still being in the lower or stowed position.
Referring now to FIGURE 4, the first and second top portions are illustrated
as being
moved to the fully extended positions. In such positions, the first and second
top portions have
been moved apart a distance that is greater than the width of the intermediate
top portion. The
intermediate top portion is illustrated as now being in the upper position as
indicated by the
arrow. In the upper position, the top surface of the intermediate top portion
lies in the same or
substantially the same plane as the top surface of the first and second top
portions. The
movement of the intermediate top portion from the lower position to the upper
position occurs in
a plane that is normal or substantially normal to the plane of movement of the
first and second
top portions. The novel movement of the intermediate top portion enables the
umbrella pole,
when used, to remain positioned in the expandable table as the expanded table
is configured
between the expanded and unexpanded configurations. Once the intermediate top
portion is
moved to the upper position, the first and second top portions are moved
together as indicated by
the arrows in FIGURE 5 until inner side edges 82, 92 of the first and second
top portions engage
or are more closely adjacent to side edges 107, 109 of the intermediate top
portion. FIGURE 5
illustrates the expandable table in the expanded configuration. One or more
latches, friction
arrangements, rail notches, etc., not shown, can be optionally used to limit
or prevent movement
of the first and/or second top portions after the table is in the final
expanded position. These
arrangements, when used, prevent or inhibit a user from inadvertently causing
one or more top
portions to move when the table is in use.
Referring now to FIGURES 6-13, one non-limiting arrangement that can be used
to move
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CA 02755009 2011-10-13
the first, second and intermediate top portions on the frame of the expandable
table is illustrated.
As can be appreciated, other arrangements can be used to move the first,
second and/or
intermediate top portions on the frame of the expandable table. FIGURE 6
illustrates a side view
of the expandable table in the unexpanded position. FIGURE 7 illustrates a
side view of the
expandable table in the expanded position. Referring now to FIGURES 8-9, one
non-limiting
rail system that can be used to move the first and second top portions is
illustrated. The rail
system is designed to simultaneously move the first and second top portions.
As can be
appreciated, such a rail system is not required. In such a configuration, a
user need only
pull/push one of first or second top portions to cause the other top portion
to move. A movement
arrangement such as, but not limited to, a cable system, a chain system, a
gear system, etc. can be
used to facilitate in the simultaneous movement of the first and second top
portions. The rail
system is connected to each of the main side members 62, 64. The rail system
includes a first
rail 120 and a second rail 130. The first rail is connected to the first top
portion and the second
rail is connected to the second top portion. The first and second rails are
generally connected to
the bottom surface of the first and second top portions; however, the
connection can be in other
or additional locations. The arrangement used to connect the first and second
top portions to the
first and second rails is non-limiting (e.g., weld, bolts, screws, clamps,
etc.). A mount flange
121, 131 is illustrated as being used to mount the first and second top
portions to the first and
second rails; however, this is not required. The first and second top portions
are mounted to the
rails such that the top surface of the first and second top portions lies in
the same or generally the
same plane. The first and second rails travel over a plurality of rollers 140,
150 that are mounted
to the main side members 62, 64. As can be appreciated, an arrangement that
fully or partially
replaces the use of a roller can be used (e.g., slide arrangement, bearings,
etc.). Each of the rails
includes a C-shaped roller cavity 122,132 that are designed to receive rollers
140, 150. The rail
system also includes friction wheels 160 that are mounted to the main side
members 62, 64. The
friction wheels are used to cause the first and second rails to simultaneously
move in opposite
directions. The friction wheels also cause the first and second rails to move
the same or
substantially the same distance in opposite directions as illustrated by the
arrows in FIGURE 9.
As can be appreciated, other arrangements can be used to cause the first and
second rails to
simultaneously move in opposite directions (e.g., chains, cables, rope, gears,
rods, slat system,
etc.).
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CA 02755009 2011-10-13
As illustrated in FIGURES 8 and 9, rails 120, 130 each include a wheel flange
124, 134
that is designed to engage the friction wheels. The material used to form the
friction wheels is
non-limiting. As illustrated in FIGURE 9, when the first and second top
portions are moved
toward an expanded position, the friction wheels on main side member 64 rotate
in a clockwise
direction as illustrated by the arrows and thereby cause rails 120 and 130 to
move in opposite
directions to cause the first and second top portions to simultaneously move
toward the fully
expanded or extended position. When the first and second top portions are
moved toward the
fully non-expanded or nonextended position, the friction wheels on main side
member 64 rotate
in a counter clockwise direction and thereby cause rails 120 and 130 to move
in opposite
directions to cause the first and second top portions to simultaneously move
toward one another.
As can be appreciated, the rail system on main side member 62, not shown is a
mirror
configuration of the rail system on main side member 64 as described above. As
can be
appreciated, certain features on rail systems may not be present on the other
rail system (e.g.,
friction wheels). As can be appreciated, the number of friction wheels and
rollers on each of the
rail systems is non-limiting.
Referring now to FIGURES 8-13, the non-limiting arrangement used to cause the
intermediate top portion to move between the upper and lower positions is
shown. The
intermediate top portion is mounted to two rails 170, 180. The arrangement
used to connect the
intermediate top portion to the first and second rails is non-limiting (e.g.,
weld, bolts, screws,
clamps, etc.). As illustrated in FIGURES 10 and 11, a screw 171 is used to
secure the
intermediate top portion to rail 172. An optional fastening grommet 173 can
also be used. Each
of the rails includes a guide pin opening 172, 182. The guide pin openings are
designed to
receive a guide pin 67, 69 that are connected to connector bars 66, 68. The
guide pins are used
to limit the movement of the intermediate top portion only to a plane normal
to the movement of
the first and second top portions. As can be appreciated, other arrangements
can be used to limit
the movement of the intermediate top portion only to a plane normal to the
movement of the first
and second top portions. Rails 170, 180 also include a slot arrangement 174,
184 that is used to
cause the intermediate top portion to automatically move between the upper and
lower positions
when the first and second top portions are moved between the fully extended
and unextended
position. As can be appreciated, other arrangements can be used to cause the
intermediate top
portion to automatically move between the upper and lower positions when the
first and second
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
top portions are moved between the fully extended and nonextended position
(e.g., chain system,
spring system, gear system, motor system, pulley system, etc.). As can also be
appreciated, an
arrangement can be used such that the intermediate top portion is manually
moved between the
upper and lower positions when the first and second top portions are moved
between the fully
extended and nonextended position. In such an arrangement, there could be
provided an upper
retaining arrangement that maintains the intermediate top portion in the upper
position after
being manually moved to the upper position so as to facilitate in moving the
first and second top
portions toward the raised intermediate top portion to form the expanded
configuration of the
expandable table; however, this is not required. Rails 170, 180 can include
other arrangements
that can be used to cause the intermediate top portion to move between the
upper and lower
positions when the first and second top portions are moved between the fully
extended and
nonextended position. The slot arrangement is designed to receive a guide post
126, 136 on rails
120, 130. The guide extension 128, 138 on the guide posts are oriented such
that both of the
guide extensions lie in the same plane that is substantially parallel to the
plane of the top surface
of the first and second top portions as illustrated in FIGURE 9.
Referring now to FIGURES 10 and 11, a cross-sectional view of the rail system
on main
side member 64. FIGURE 10 illustrates the intermediate top portion in the
lower or stowed
position. The positioning of guide extensions 128, 138 in the slot arrangement
of rail 170 results
in such positioning of the intermediate top portion. Guide pin 69 is
positioned in guide pin
opening 172 to limit the direction of movement of the intermediate top
portion. FIGURE 11
illustrates the intermediate top portion in the upper position. The
positioning of guide extensions
128, 138 in the slot arrangement of rail 170 results in such positioning of
the intermediate top
portion. Guide pin 69 is maintained positioned in guide pin opening 172 to
limit the direction of
movement of the intermediate top portion. As can be appreciated, the guide
pins can also be
designed to limit the amount that the intermediate top portion can be raised;
however, this is not
required. As can also be appreciated, the configuration rail 180 can be the
same as rail 170, and
the operation can also be substantially the same as the intermediate top
portion moving between
the upper and lower position; however, this is not required.
An alternative rail arrangement is illustrated in FIGURES 30-33. The operation
of the
rail system is similar to the rail system illustrated in FIGURES 8-11, thus a
detailed discussion
regarding the operation of the rail system illustrated in FIGURES 30-33 will
not be discussed
16
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
herein. Similar parts for the two rail system are similarly numbered. As
illustrated in FIGURE
30, main side member 64 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape as opposed to
a C-shape as
illustrated in FIGURES 8 and 11. The main side member 64 includes a plurality
of screw
openings 65 that are used to mount a wheel plate 142 to the inner face of the
main side member.
The wheel plate includes openings 144 that are designed to receive screws 145.
The top and
bottom edges of the wheel plate includes mount tabs 146 which also include
openings 147.
Openings 147 are also designed to receive screws 145. As illustrated in FIGURE
31, the screws
are used to secure the wheel plate to the inner face of the main side member
64. A similar
arrangement exists on main side member 62. As illustrated in FIGURE 30,
rollers and wheels
140, 150 and 160 are rotatable mounted to the wheel plate.
As illustrated in FIGURES 32 and 33, rails 120, 130 are secured to the wheel
plate. The
configuration of rails 120, 130 is similar to the configuration of rails 120,
130 illustrated in
FIGURES 8-11. As illustrated in FIGURES 32 and 33, rails 120, 130 are formed
of bent
material such as bent metal. Rails 120, 130 as illustrated in FIGURES 8-10 are
illustrated as
being form in a molding or extrusion process. Both type of rails 120, 130
includes a roller cavity
122, 132,
FIGURES 10 and 33 illustrated the same view illustrating the two rail systems.
As best
illustrated in these two FIGURES, friction wheel 160 and rollers are
illustrated as having a
slightly different configuration; however, this is not required. As
illustrated in FIGURE 33, the
friction wheel is a two piece wheel having a outer region 162 and is connected
to a inner region
164. The materials used for the two components is non-limiting. Generally the
inner region is
formed of a durable hard material (e.g., metal, hard plastic, etc.) and the
outer region is formed
of a gripping material (e.g., rubber, plastics, etc.). A connection
arrangement 166 (e.g., T-Bar
mount, etc.), 168 (e.g., slot, etc.) is illustrated as securing the outer
region to the inner region.
The type of connection arrangement is non-limiting. The operation of the two
rail systems is
substantially the same.
Referring now to FIGURE 1 a sectional view of the slot arrangement 184 of rail
180 is
illustrated. The slot arrangement includes a lower level 186, and upper level
187, a transition
level 188, and a transition junction 189. As can be appreciated, a similar
arrangement can exist
on rail 170 as illustrated in FIGURE 8. The rail also includes a gate flange
190 that is pivotally
connected to rail 180. As illustrated in FIGURE 12, a hex screw 191 is used to
secure the gate
17
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
flange to rail 180. As can be appreciated, the gate flange can be pivotally
connected to rail 180
by other means. The arrows on the gate flange illustrate the direction the
gate flange can pivot.
The gate flange is generally mounted so that it hangs freely in the downward
position by the
force of gravity as illustrated in FIGURE 12; however, this is not required.
Pivot limiters 192,
194 are positioned on each side of the gate flange to limit the amount the
gate flange can pivot in
each direction. The positioning and the material used for the pivot limiters
are non-limiting. The
pivot limiters are generally positioned so that the gate flange can be
sufficiently pivoted so that
the guide extension 138 can move along the lower level of the slot
arrangement. The movement
of the guide extensions 128, 138 within the slot arrangement of rail 180 is
illustrated in
FIGURES 13A-H as the intermediate top portion 100 moves between the upper and
lower
positions as the first and second top portions are moved between the fully
extended and fully
nonextended or collapsed positions. FIGURE 13A illustrates the position of the
intermediate top
portion relative to the first and second top portions when the expandable
table is in the
unexpanded position. Guide extensions 128, 138 are positioned in the upper
level 187 of the slot
arrangement.
FIGURE 13B illustrates that the first and second top portions are moved away
from one
another as illustrated by the arrows. As guide extensions 128, 138 travels
downwardly on the
transition level 188 of the slot arrangement as illustrated by the arrows, the
intermediate top
portion is caused to begin moving upwardly as illustrated by the arrows.
FIGURE 13C
illustrates the positioning of the first and second top portions in the fully
extended or expanded
position. The guide extensions 128, 138 in the lower level 186 of the slot
arrangement limit
further movement of the first and second top portions in the expanded
direction once the guide
extensions reach the end of the slot in lower level 186. The guide extensions
128, 138 have
moved past the gate flanges 190 and the arrows on the gate flanges indicate
the gate flanges are
pivoting downwardly back to the rest position of the gate flange once the
guide extensions have
moved past the gate flange. Once the guide extensions 128, 138 have traveled
to lower level 186
of the slot arrangement, the intermediate top portion is positioned in the
fully upper position.
When the first and second top portions are in the fully extended or expanded
position, the inner
side edges 82, 92 of the two top portions are spaced from the side edges 107,
109 of the
intermediate top portion as illustrated in FIGURE 13C. As can be appreciated,
the first and
second top portions do not need to be moved to the fully expanded or extended
position to cause
18
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
the intermediate top position to move to the full upper position and to
reconfigure the expandable
table into the expanded position. The expandable table is configured to the
expanded position by
moving the first and second top portions toward the intermediate top portion
as illustrated in
FIGURE 13D as indicated by the arrows. As the guide extensions 128, 138 move
horizontally
along the lower level 186 of the slot arrangement, the guide extensions 128,
138 contact the gate
flange 190 and cause the gate flange to pivot upwardly and to block the
transition junction 189
so that the guide extensions 128, 138 can only proceed along the lower level
of the slot
arrangement. Pivot limiter 194 limits the upward movement of the gate flange,
but allows the
gate flange to pivot upwardly a sufficient distance to enable the guide
extensions 128, 138 to
pass under the gate flanges. FIGURE 13E illustrates the expandable table in
the final expanded
position. The length of the lower level of the slot arrangement is selected to
enable the first and
second top portions to move toward the intermediate top portion so that the
inner side edges 82,
92 of the two top portions contact or are positioned closely adjacent to side
edges 107, 109 of the
intermediate top portion. The gate flange is illustrated as hanging downwardly
in the resting
position. As illustrated in FIGURES 13A-13E, the intermediate top portion
moved vertically
upward or normal to the plane of movement of the first and second top
portions. This novel
movement of the intermediate top portion enables an umbrella, when used, to
move in position
relative to the expandable table as the expandable table is expanded and
contracted.
Referring now to FIGURES 13F-H, the reconfiguration of the expandable table
from the
expanded position to the unexpanded position is illustrated. The intermediate
top portion is
caused to move to the lower portion by initially moving the first and second
top portions toward
the fully extended or expanded position. Once the guide extensions 128, 138
reach the transition
junction 189 in the slot arrangement, the guide extensions 128, 138 will move
into transition
level 188 since the weight of the intermediate top portion will cause the
intermediate top portion
to move toward the downward or stowed position as indicated by the arrows.
Once the guide
extensions 128, 138 move into transition level 188, the movement of the first
and second top
portions away from one another is stopped. As illustrated in FIGURE 13F, the
distance that the
first and second top portions are spaced apart at the point that the guide
extensions 128, 138 will
move into transition level 188 is a smaller distance than when the first and
second top portions
are spaced apart when the intermediate top portion is being moved to the upper
position as
illustrated in FIGURE 13C. As illustrated in FIGURES 13G and 13H, as the first
and second top
19
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
portions are moved together as indicated by the arrows, the guide extensions
128, 138 travel
upwardly along the transition level 188 thereby causing the intermediate top
portion to continue
movement downwardly toward the lowered or stowed position. Once the guide
extensions 128,
138 have reached the upper level 187 of the slot arrangement as illustrated in
FIGURE 13H, the
intermediate top portion is positioned in the lowered or stowed position. The
first and second
top portions continue to be moved together until positioned as illustrated in
FIGURE 13A which
represents the unexpanded position of the expandable table.
Referring now to FIGURES 14-27, another non-limiting expandable table 300 is
illustrated. The materials used to form the expandable table are non-limiting.
Generally, the
same type of materials that can be used to make the expandable table
illustrated in FIGURES 1-
13 can be used to make the expandable table illustrated in FIGURES 14-27.
Expandable table
300 is configured to include only two table leaves, namely a top leaf 320 and
a bottom leaf 330.
One or both leafs can include a panel 325, 327 (e.g., glass panel, plastic
panel, wood panel, metal
mesh panel, etc.); however, this is not required. The expandable table also
includes a frame 310.
The configuration of the frame is non-limiting. The frame is illustrated as
having four legs 312,
314, 316, 318. As can be appreciated, the frame can include a single leg, two
legs, three legs, or
more than four legs. Reinforcing structures, not shown, can be optionally used
to connect to one
or more of the legs to rigidify the frame; however, this is not required.
As illustrated in FIGURE 14, the expandable table 300 is in the unexpanded
position. In
the unexpanded position, the top leaf 320 is positioned above the bottom leaf
330. The bottom
leaf can be positioned fully or partially under the top leaf. As illustrated
in FIGURE 14, the
bottom leaf is fully positioned under the top leaf. The bottom leaf is
illustrated as having
generally the same shape, length, width and thickness as the top leaf;
however, this is not
required. Generally, the top and bottom leaf have a square or rectangular
shape; however, it can
be appreciated that the top and/or bottom leaf can have other shapes (e.g.,
semi-oval, semi-
circular, other polygonal shapes, etc.). The top and/or bottom leaf can fully
or partially include a
solid surface, a slatted surface, a glass surface, a plastic surface, a metal
surface, a cross-hatch
surface, etc.
Referring now to FIGURES 15-17, the rail system 340 of the expandable table is
illustrated. The rail system includes two rail arrangements 350 and 360 on two
sides of the
expandable table as illustrated in FIGURE 14. The two rail arrangements have
generally the
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
same configuration and are generally mirror configurations of one another. As
illustrated in
FIGURE 16, rail arrangement 360 includes upper and lower rail slots 370, 380.
When the
expandable table is in the unexpanded position, the bottom leaf 330 is
supported by bottom
rollers 332, 334 that are located in lower rail slot 380, and the top leaf 320
is supported by top
rollers 322, 324, 326 that are located in upper rail slot 370. The rollers of
the two leaves have
generally the same size and shape; however, this is not required. Roller
brackets 336, 328 are
used to secure the rollers to the top portions 329, 339 of the two leaves. As
can be appreciated,
bottom leaf 330 can include more than two sets of rollers. Likewise, it can be
appreciated that
top leaf 320 can include only two sets of rollers or more than three sets of
rollers. As can also be
appreciated, movement mechanisms other than or in addition to rollers can be
used (e.g.,
bearings, slide arrangements, etc.). The shape and/or type of bracket or other
type of
arrangement used to secure the top portions of the leaves to the rollers or
other type of movement
mechanisms is non-limiting. The spacing of the upper and lower rail slots 370,
380 is selected
such that the bottom leaf is spaced below the top leaf as illustrated in
FIGURES 15 and 17.
The rail slots for each rail arrangement are illustrated as being made of a
preformed
material 390 that is mounted to the housing of the rail arrangement by one or
more connectors
392 such as, but not limited to, a pin, screw, rivet, etc. As can be
appreciated, the material used
to form the preformed material is non-limiting. As can also be appreciated,
the rail arrangement
can have one or both rail slots integrally formed in the rail arrangement. The
manner in which
the rail arrangement is formed and the number of pieces used to form the rail
arrangement is
non-limiting.
The rail slots for each rail arrangement are illustrated as being sized so
that the roller can
easily roll within the slot; however, this is not required. Generally, the
height of the slots is
slightly greater than the diameter of the rollers.
As illustrated in FIGURES 15 and 16, the bottom leaf 330, when in the fully
unexpanded
position is illustrated as being positioned fully underneath the upper leaf
320. Both rollers 332,
334 are positioned in rail slot 380. Roller 334 on the bottom leaf is
positioned against end 382 of
rail slot 380. End 382 functions as a stop and prevents further movement of
the bottom leaf as
the bottom leaf is moved toward end 383. The top leaf 320, when in the fully
unexpanded
position is illustrated as being positioned above the lower lead 330. Rollers
322, 324, 326 are
positioned in rail slot 370. Roller 322 is illustrated as resting against ramp
surface 372. Ramp
21
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
surface 372 functions as a stop in a similar manner as end 382 of rail slot
380. A lock
mechanism 400 can be used to secure together and/or otherwise inhibit or
prevent movement of
the upper and/or bottom leafs when in the unexpanded and/or expanded positions
so as to inhibit
or prevent inadvertent or undesirable movement of either or both of the two
leaves. The type or
configuration of the lock mechanism, when used, is non-limiting (e.g., latch,
hook, lock, pin,
etc.). As illustrated in FIGURE 10, the lock mechanism can in the form of a
latch that includes a
latch handle 402. The arrow illustrates the movement of latch handle 402
between a locked and
unlock position. When the latch in the locked position, the latch can cause a
friction engagement
with one or more of the wheels to inhibit or prevent movement of the wheels.
Many different
mechanisms can be used to inhibit or prevent movement of the wheels. Also or
alternatively, the
latch mechanism can engage one or more wheels by other or additional means to
inhibit or
prevent movement of the wheels. Furthermore, the latch mechanism can engage
other or
additional components (e.g., chains, cables, rope, gears, etc.) to inhibit or
prevent movement of
one or more of the leafs when the latch is on the locked position.
The rail mechanism is designed to enable the expandable table to be configured
between
a fully expanded and fully unexpanded position. FIGURES 18-29 illustrate the
reconfiguration
of the expandable table from the fully unexpanded position to the fully
expanded position and
how the rollers move within the rail system during such reconfiguration. As
illustrated in
FIGURES 18 and 23, the center of the top leaf is moved from the center of the
frame in the
direction of the arrow and front end 323 is moved off of the frame. The top
leaf can be moved
partially or fully to the fully expanded position of the top leaf prior to
moving the bottom leaf.
The fully expanded position of the top leaf is illustrated in FIGURE 19. In
the fully expanded
position of the top leaf, back end 321of the top leaf is positioned at or near
the center or middle
of the frame. As can be appreciated, the bottom leaf can be moved from its
fully unexpanded
position prior to or during the movement of the top leaf, however, this is not
required. During
the movement of the top leaf from its fully unexpanded position to its fully
expanded position,
rollers 322, 324, 326 remain in rail slot 370.
As illustrated in FIGURES 15, 16 and 23-27, rollers 322, 324, 326 on top leaf
320 are
designed to never move within rail slot 380. The spacing of the three rollers
prevents any of the
rollers from being able to move to rail slot 370. As illustrated in FIGURE 16,
each of the rail
arrangements 340, 350 include upper and lower rail slots 370, 380. One end of
rail slot 380
22
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
includes an end 382. The opposite end of rail slot 370 terminates into ramp
384. Ramp 384
slopes upwardly and terminates at ramp opening 385 into rail slot 370. The
configuration of
ramp 384 is designed to enable roller 332 on bottom leaf 330 to move between
rail slots 370 and
380. A roller gap 386 also exists between rail slots 370, 380. Roller gap 386
is positioned
between end 382 and ramp 384 as illustrated in FIGURE 16. Roller gap 386 is
shaped and sized
to enable roller 334 on bottom leaf 330 to move between rail slots 370 and
380. Roller gap is
positioned at the center or middle of frame 310, or positioned off center and
toward the direction
of ramp 384 as illustrated in FIGURE 16. As illustrated in FIGURES 15, 16 and
23-27, the
spacing of the rollers 322, 324, 326 and the spacing of ramp 384 and roller
gap 386 is such that
whenever roller 322 is over ramp opening 385 or roller gap 386, rollers 324
and 326 are not over
roller gap 386. As such, rollers 324 and 326 prevent the tilting of the top
leaf so that roller 322
can enter into either ramp opening 385 or roller gap 386. Likewise, the
spacing of the rollers
322, 324, 326 and the spacing of ramp 384 and roller gap 386 is such that
whenever roller 324 is
over roller gap 386, rollers 322 and 326 are not over ramp opening 385. As
such, rollers 322 and
326 prevent the tilting of the top leaf so that roller 324 can enter into
either roller gap 386. As is
evident from the spacing of the rollers 322, 324, 326 and the spacing of ramp
384 and roller gap
386, roller 324 and 326 cannot ever be over ramp opening 385. Also, roller 326
can never be
over roller gap 386. As such, the spacing of the rollers 322, 324, 326 and the
spacing of ramp
384 and roller gap 386 ensures that roller 322, 324, 326 always remain in rail
slot 370. FIGURE
16 illustrates that a landing slot 373 is positioned rearwardly of ramp
surface 372. Roller 322 is
prevented from moving up ramp surface 372 and into landing slot 372 by rollers
324 and 326.
Rollers 324 and 326 prevent top leaf 320 from being tilted to enable roller
322 to move up ramp
surface 372 and into landing slot 372.
Referring again to FIGURES 18, 19, 23 and 24, after the top leaf is moved to
its fully
expanded position, the bottom leaf 330 is moved in the opposite direction as
indicated by the
arrow in FIGURE 19 toward its fully expanded position. The initial movement of
the bottom
leaf occurs in lower rail slot 380 as illustrated in FIGURES 23 and 24. Once
roller 332 moves to
ramp 384, front end 331 of the bottom leaf is then lifted upwardly so that
roller 332 can move
upwardly ramp 384 and to rail slot 370 as indicated by the arrow in FIGURE 25.
Bottom leaf
then is continued to be moved as indicated by the arrow in FIGURE 25 so that
roller 332 moves
toward and up ramp surface 372 and into landing slot 373 as illustrated in
FIGURES 20 and 25.
23
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
As illustrated in FIGURE 25, once roller 332 is fully positioned in landing
slot 372, roller 334 is
aligned beneath roller gap 386. As indicated by the arrows in FIGURE 20 and
26, the front end
331 is push downward to cause the bottom leaf to pivot on roller 332 and cause
roller 334 to be
raised and moved into and through roller gap 386 to rail slot 370. Roller gap
386 can optionally
include sloped surfaces 387 to facilitate in the movement of roller 334 into
and through roller
gap 386. Once roller 334 is moved upwardly through roller gap and into rail
slot 370, bottom
leaf can then be moved toward top leaf 320 as indicated by the arrow in
FIGURES 21 and 27
until back end 333 of bottom leaf 330 contacts or is positioned closely
adjacent to back end 321
of the top leaf 320 as illustrated in FIGURE 22. Downward pressure can
optionally be applied to
end 331 as indicated by the arrow in FIGURE 27 to prevent roller 334 from
moving downwardly
and into roller gap 386 as the bottom leaf is moved toward the top leaf.
FIGURE 22 illustrates
the expandable table in the fully expanded position. As illustrated in FIGURE
27, the roller on
both the top and bottom leafs are positioned in rail slot 370. As illustrated
in FIGURE 27, ends
231, 333 are positioned at or substantially near the center or middle of the
frame when the table
is configured in the fully expanded position; however, this si not required.
The steps above can be reversed to reconfigure the expandable table from the
fully
expanded position to the fully unexpanded position.
Referring now to FIGURES 28 and 29, a locking arrangement 410 can be
optionally used
to inhibit or prevent movement of the top and/or bottom leaf when the
expandable table is in the
unexpanded and/or expanded position. The non-limiting locking mechanism
illustrated in
FIGURES 28 and 29 is designed to limit movement of the top leaf. As can be
appreciated, a
similar or different locking mechanism can also or alternatively be used to
limit movement of the
bottom leaf. As illustrated in FIGURE 28, the locking mechanism includes a
rotatable knob 412
that rotates about a pin 414. The position of knob 412 in FIGURE 28 is the
lock position.
FIGURE 29 illustrates knob in the unlocked position.
It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made
apparent from the
preceding description, are efficiently attained, and since certain changes may
be made in the
constructions set forth without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention, it is intended
that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the
accompanying drawings shall
be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The invention has
been described with
reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Modifications and
alterations will become
24
CA 02755009 2011-10-13
apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the
detailed discussion of the
invention provided herein. This invention is intended to include all such
modifications and
alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the present invention. It
is also to be
understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic
and specific features
of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the
invention, which, as a
matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.
