US20100018441A1

US20100018441A1 - Portable and foldable working platform

Info

Publication number: US20100018441A1
Application number: US12/510,248
Authority: US
Inventors: Brian Goldwitz
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2008-07-25
Filing date: 2009-07-27
Publication date: 2010-01-28
Also published as: WO2010012008A2; US20100022355A1; WO2010012006A2; US7862479B2; WO2010012006A3; WO2010012008A3

Abstract

Embodiments of a portable multi-use folding working platform for use with portable electronic devices and/or for increasing comfort of a user while traveling are herein provided. In one embodiment, the portable multi-use folding working platform includes two rigid components hingedly connected and adapted to close into a folded state or to open into an expanded state. The platform may include at least one extractable accessory holder or tray having at least one opening for receiving and holding one or more objects such as a pen, a cup or the like. The device may include a compressible padding on an interior surface. The platform may include one or more openings for ventilation purposes or for receiving an adjustable strap.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/083,897 entitled “Cool Desk” filed Jul. 25, 2008, and hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

At least one feature relates to mobile working platforms and more particularly to a foldable platform adapted as a working surface for various environments.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Flexibility in modern day travel enables those who desire to travel vast distances in a short amount of time. For example, it is not unusual for a business person to travel from one continent to another in a matter of one or two days solely to effectuate a business transaction with a manufacturer or distributor. Advances in the portability of electronic devices allows travelers to bring portable electronic devices, e.g., laptop computers, portable DVD players, cellular phones, etc., when traveling. Even those traveling short distances may have a need to bring a particular portable electronic device for either business purposes or for pleasure. A traveler may chose to use a particular portable device in a variety of different venues, e.g., in a car, train, airplane, airport, etc. One challenge in using portable electronic devices while in transit can be situating it in a feasible and/or comfortable position for use by the traveler. With respect to at least a laptop computer, another challenge can be dissipation of the heat generated by the computer from your legs or other body parts.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A multi-use mobile foldable working platform, comprising: (i) a first rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges; (ii) a second rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges hingedly connected to the first rigid flat component wherein the first and second rigid flat components are configured to fold relative to one another in a range of between about zero degrees and about one-hundred and eighty degrees; (iii) at least one extractable accessory tray slidably engaged with one of the first and second rigid flat components, the accessory tray extractable beyond one of the peripheries thereof; and (iv) a plurality of apertures on at least one of the first and second rigid flat components is herein disclosed. The first rigid flat component has a first interior face and a first exterior face and the first interior face has a compressible padding thereon. Similarly, the second rigid flat component has a second interior face and a second exterior face and the second interior face has a compressible padding thereon.
In a complete folded state, the first interior face is adjacent to the second interior face. In a complete expanded state, the first exterior face is coplanar with the second exterior face and forms a single surface. Each of first and second rigid flat components includes an opening at each exterior corner thereon, each opening may receive a portion of an adjustable strap. The platform may further include an adjustable strap for horizontally suspending the platform adjacent to a perpendicular surface. The platform may further include a plurality of symmetrically spaced apertures which provide a vent for a removable fan positionable on either the first or second interior components. The at least one extractable accessory tray includes a plurality of apertures which may receive and hold an object. The object may be a pen, a cup or a USB flash drive. A thickness of the at least one extractable accessory tray may be less than a thickness of each of first and second rigid flat components.
The platform may further include a support structure comprising two supporting members for positioning on the sides of a user in a seated position and a supporting platform member for supporting the platform in an angled position. The supporting members collapse into the supporting platform member and, when collapsed, approximate a shape defined by the supporting platform member.
A platform, comprising: (i) a first rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges, the first rigid flat component having a first size; (ii) a second rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges hingedly connected to the first rigid flat component, the hinged connection between an edge of the first rigid flat component and inset relative to an edge of the second rigid flat component, the second rigid flat component having a second size wherein the first size is smaller than the second size, wherein the first and second rigid flat components are configured to fold relative to one another in a range of between about zero degrees and about one-hundred and eighty degrees.
In one embodiment, the second rigid flat component comprises a recessed portion and a remaining portion, the recessed portion having a thickness less than a thickness of the remaining portion, wherein the hinged connection is at the area where the recessed portion meets the remaining portion and wherein the recessed portion covers a corresponding portion of the second component such that the components are coplanar relative to one another when in an unfolded state and the unfolded state provides a work surface. In another embodiment, the first rigid flat component and the second rigid flat component include rounded corners, wherein a folded state the first rigid flat component operates as a working surface and in an unfolded state both the first and second rigid flat components operate as the working surface. The platform may further include at least one removable accessory tray configured to connect with at least one aperture on one of the first and second rigid flat components such that the accessory tray is coplanar with the components when the platform is being used by a user. A strap may horizontally suspend the platform adjacent to a perpendicular surface. The platform may further include a support structure comprising two supporting members for positioning on the sides of a user in a seated position and a supporting platform member for supporting the platform in an angled position.
A kit for providing a work surface while a user is in a seated position, the kit having a plurality of component parts for providing the work surface, the kit comprising: (a) a work surface comprising: (i) a first rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges; (ii) a second rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges hingedly connected to the first rigid flat component wherein the first and second rigid flat components are configured to fold relative to one another in a range of between about zero degrees and about one-hundred and eighty degrees; (iii) at least one accessory tray attached to one of the first and second rigid flat components, the accessory tray coplanar with the components when the components are being used by a user; and (iv) a plurality of apertures on at least one of the first and second rigid flat components; (b) a support structure comprising two supporting members for positioning on the sides of a user in a seated position and a supporting work surface member for supporting the work surface in an angled position; and (c) a plurality of pins to attach the work surface to the support structure is herein disclosed.
The first and second components may be the same size and an edge of the first component is hingedly connected to an edge of the second component. The first component may be smaller relative to the second component and an edge of the first component is hingedly connected at an inset recessed portion of the second component.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a multi-use mobile foldable working platform in a folded state according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front close-up view of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1 in a partially unfolded position.

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1 in a partially unfolded position.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of an interior of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1 in a fully expanded state.

FIG. 7 illustrates a top of view of an exterior of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1 in a fully expanded state.

FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up view of an extractable accessory holder fully extracted from a multi-use mobile foldable working platform according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a close-up view of the extractable accessory holder of FIG. 8 partially extracted from the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 illustrates a close-up side view of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform in a closed position.

FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of the interior of a component of a multi-use mobile foldable working platform with a portable fan housed therein.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exterior surface of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1 in a completely expanded state.

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a multi-use mobile foldable working platform in a fully expanded and user-ready position according to an embodiment of the invention with a laptop computer and various objects positioned thereon.

FIGS. 14A, 14B, 14C and 14D further illustrate various views of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform having a compressible and/or expandable cushion between the interior surfaces of the components.

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of the platform supported by a straps or webbings from a car seat.

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate one or more apertures with attaching mechanisms for connecting straps on a periphery of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform 100 of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate a mechanism by which the straps may be attached to support rods of the headrest.

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate a top and a bottom view, respectively, of a multi-use mobile foldable working platform in a folded state according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20 illustrates the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a partially folded state.

FIG. 21 illustrates the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely expanded state.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely expanded state with a locking mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 illustrates a user using the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely folded state.

FIG. 25 illustrates a user using the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely expanded state.

FIG. 26 illustrates the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely expanded state with an accessory holder or tray according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 27 illustrates the tray of FIG. 26 attached to a back edge of the platform of FIG. 18.

FIG. 28 illustrates the tray of FIG. 26 attached to a back edge of the platform of FIG. 18.

FIG. 29 illustrates a support structure in an expanded state for use with a multi-use mobile foldable working platform according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30 illustrates the support structure of FIG. 29 in an expanded state with an electronic device being supported thereon.

FIG. 31 illustrates the support structure of FIG. 29 in a partially collapsed, folded state.

FIG. 32 illustrates the support structure of FIG. 29 in a collapsed, folded state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention is not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.
Embodiments of a multi-use mobile foldable working platform may be used with or without portable electronic devices for providing a workspace and/or for increasing comfort of a user while traveling. In one embodiment, the multi-use mobile foldable working platform includes two rigid components hingedly connected and adapted to close into a folded state or to open into an expanded state. The platform may include at least one extractable or removable accessory holder having at least one opening for receiving and holding one or more objects such as a pen, a cup or the like. The platform may include a compressible padding on an exterior service. The platform may include one or more openings for ventilation purposes or for receiving an adjustable support strap or webbing to support the platform behind a car seat, for example.
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a multi-use mobile foldable working platform in a folded state according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown, the platform 100 includes a first rigid flat component 102 and a second rigid flat component 104 (see FIG. 3) hingedly connected together. Each component 102 and 104 may have a periphery defined by four edges and each component 102 and 104 may be approximately the same size. Each component 102, 104 may be approximately rectangular in configuration; however, other suitable geometric shapes are within the scope of the invention. In the configuration in which each component 102, 104 are rectangular in configuration, each corner of each component 102, 104 may be rounded; however, straight-edged corners are within the scope of the invention. Materials which may comprise the platform include acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, fiberglass, a combination thereof or any other equivalent suitable material of sufficient rigidity to serve as a working platform. FIG. 2 illustrates a front close-up view of the platform 100 of FIG. 1. As shown, the component 102 includes a slightly protruding flange 106 for receiving a flange 108 of the component 104 when the platform is fully closed.
FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1 in a partially unfolded position. One or more hinges 109 may provide the hinged connection between component 102 and component 104. According to the embodiment shown, each hinge 109 includes a one or more interlocking fingers. When the interlocking fingers lock together, they form a substantially planar surface. It should be noted that in the example illustrated in FIG. 3, each finger 117 may be received at a corresponding aperture 119 such that a cantilevered locking mechanism is formed. Other hinge mechanisms known by one of ordinary skill in the art are within the scope of the invention. In one embodiment, peripheral corners or sides of each component 102, 104 may include an aperture or coupler 107 (see FIG. 4) for receiving at least one strap or webbing. The strap or webbing may be used, for example, to suspend or hang the platform 100 on substantially perpendicular surface, e.g., the back of a seat.
FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1 in a partially unfolded position. As shown, the first component 102 includes a first front flange 110 and the second component 104 includes a second front flange 112. Each flange 110 and 112 may be configured to snap together when pressure is applied thereto. Moreover, at least one flange 110, 112 may be configured to allow extraction of at least one extractable accessory holder 114 (shown in the interior of platform 100).
FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1. As shown, the first component 102 includes a first side flange 116 and the second component 104 includes a second side flange 118. Similar to the front flanges 110, 112, each flange 116 and 118 may be configured to snap together when pressure is applied thereto. For instance, the flanges for the first component 102 may fit within the perimeter of the flanges for the second component 104, thereby allowing the first and second components 102 and 104 to fold more compactly.
One or more of the flanges 116 or 118 may be configured with a side opening or aperture 105 to allow an accessory holder or tray 114 to slide in and/or out from the first and/or second component 102 and 104. The holder or tray 114 slides past the edge of the outer flange so that, when the platform is folded, the tray 114 is secured therein.
FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of an interior of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1 in a fully expanded state. FIG. 6 shows interior surfaces of components 102, 104 and also shows two extractable accessories or trays 114 within the interior surface thereof. Because the extractable accessories 114 are housed within the interior surfaces of the components 102, 104, it should be understood that each interior surface has a thickness. The thickness may be very shallow, for example, between about 0.4 millimeters and about 0.7 millimeters. Thus, it should be understood that the each extractable accessory holder or trays 114 has a thickness within this range.
FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of an exterior of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 1 in a fully expanded state. FIG. 7 shows exterior surfaces of components 102, 104 and also shows two extractable accessories holders or trays 114 a and 114 b slidably engaged to the platform 100. Note that the holders or trays 114 a and/or 114 b may be positioned in on different, right-angled sides of the platform 100 to allow users flexibility in using the platform under different circumstances.
According to the embodiment shown, the platform 100 provides a single surface with the components 102, 104 in a fully expanded state for multiple purposes. For example, the platform 100 may provide a surface for resting or supporting an electronic device thereon, e.g., a laptop computer while the user is in transit, i.e., on a plane, in a car or on a train. Even on a plane where a foldable table tray is generally provided (and, thus, may provide a surface for a laptop computer while the user is in transit), such table trays are generally too small to accommodate a mouse or other computer accessories. Also, if the user has a beverage, that beverage usually must be placed on the same table tray as that of the laptop computer thereby risking the beverage spilling and ruining the laptop computer. According to the embodiment shown, the extractable accessories 114 provide a separate location to hold a beverage thereby reducing the risks associated with placing a beverage on the same surface as the laptop computer.
FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up view of an extractable accessory holder or tray fully extracted from a platform according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown, the extractable accessory holder or trays 114 is substantially flat and provides a plurality of openings 120 for receiving and holding one or more objects such as, but not limited to, a cup (or beverage), a pen and computer accessories such as a USB flash drive (as shown). In one embodiment, the opening 120 for receiving a cup may include webbing or straps to help support the cup within the opening 120. The extractable accessory holder or tray 114 may slidably engage with a receiving mechanism within one of the interior surface of the components 102, 104.
FIG. 9 illustrates a close-up view of the extractable accessory holder or tray 114 partially extracted from the platform of FIG. 1. As shown, the extractable accessory holder 114 includes a flange 122 which provides the user with a means for pulling out the extractable accessory holder 114 and also provides a flush edge when the extractable accessory holder 114 is fully inserted within the platform 100.
FIG. 10 illustrates a close-up side view of the platform 100 in a closed position.
FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of the interior of component 102 with a fan 124, e.g., a USB fan, housed therein. The fan 124 may be removably attached to interior component 102 by any one of known attaching means. The fan 124 may provide a heat dissipating effect to a laptop computer situated on the platform 100 when the platform 100 is in a closed, partially closed or completely expanded state. In other implementations, the fan 124 may be integrated within the platform. In either case, the fan 124 may include a wire (e.g., USB connector) to couple to a laptop computer to provide power to the fan 124.
FIG. 12 illustrates an exterior surface of the platform 100 of FIG. 1 in a completely expanded state. As shown, a plurality of symmetrically spaced openings 126 provides ports for ventilation from the fan 124 to, e.g., a laptop computer situated on the exterior surface. It should be understood that one or more fans 124 and one or more corresponding symmetrically-spaced opening groupings 126 may be positioned and/or located on various locations of the platform 100.
FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a platform in fully expanded and user-ready position according to an embodiment of the invention with a laptop computer and various objects positioned thereon. As shown, the platform 100 may be positioned across the lap of a user who may be seated, e.g., in a chair, on a train, bus or plane or any other known means of transit (either stationary or moving). As shown, the platform 100 includes two extractable accessory trays 114 which may hold and receive objects such as a cup, a portable USB drive and one or more pens. Advantageously, there is a first extractable accessory holder or tray 114 a which pulls out to a side relative to the platform 100 and a second extractable accessory holder or tray 114 b which pulls out from a back relative to the platform 100. In this manner, the user may avoid interfering with a user on his or her left or right, if applicable, or, avoid interfering with a back of a seat in front of the user, such as on a plane. In one embodiment, the exterior surfaces may include a compressible padding thereon. The compressible padding may be, for example, polyester or any other equivalent material. The compressible padding provides cushioning to the lap of the user.
FIGS. 14A, 14B, 14C and 14D further illustrate various views of the multi-use mobile foldable working platform having a compressible and/or expandable cushion between the interior surfaces of the components 102, 104. The compressible and/or expandable cushion 1402/1404 may be made of foam or other material that is capable of compressing within the thickness of the folded components 102, 104. As the platform 100 is unfolded, the cushions 1402 and 1404 expand to approximately twice their compressed thickness or more. In some embodiments, the cushions 1402 and 1404 may be inflatable. Note that the cushions 1402 and 1404 may be positioned over the extractable accessory holders or trays 114 or they may have cutouts around the extractable accessory holders or trays 114.
FIG. 14A illustrates a side view of a multi-use mobile foldable working platform. In some embodiments, the platform 100 may be between half an inch and one (1) inch in thickness, about twenty (20) inches in width, and about twelve (12) inches in length when in the expanded state. Advantageously, the width of the platform 100 allows for a mouse (wireless or wired) to be situated next to a laptop computer when in the expanded state. The platform 100 may be approximately three-eighths (⅜) inches in thickness when in the collapsed (i.e., storable) state.
FIG. 14B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the platform 100 showing the compressed cushions 1402 and 1404 within the thickness of the platform components 102 and 104. FIG. 14C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the platform 100 partially unfolding.
FIG. 14D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the platform 100 fully unfolded.
Advantageously, the construction of the platform 100 with cushions 1402 and 1404 may insulate a user from heat emanating from a laptop computer. That is, when situated on a user's lap in the expanded state, the platform 100 protects the user's legs from heat emanating from the laptop computer. In this manner, the platform 100 provides both a working surface for the laptop computer and provides an insulating function to protect a user from heat. These features can be very valuable in numerous venues where working surfaces are absent and/or limited, such as an airport, a train, or even a car. Conversely, when in a collapsed state, the platform 100 may be conveniently stored in a compact area, such as a laptop computer carrying case.
In an alternative embodiment, the platform 100 may have attaching means with corresponding attaching means on, e.g., on a laptop computer carrying case, in place of the compressed cushions 1402 and 1404. For example, the platform 100 may have one or more Velcro portions on its periphery while the laptop computer carrying case may have one or more corresponding Velcro portions on its periphery. In this manner, the platform 100 may be cushioned by the laptop carrying case when the platform 100 is positioned thereon. This embodiment provides the same benefits as those described with reference to FIGS. 14A-14D.
FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of the platform supported by a straps or webbings from a car seat. The platform 100 may include straps 1502 and 1504 attached to the corners of the platform 100 via a plurality of apertures 107 or equivalent means (see FIGS. 16A-16B). The straps 1502 and 1504 may wrap around the headrest 1508 of the car seat 1506. In one embodiment, the straps 1502 and 1504 may be adjustable to keep the platform 100 in a substantially horizontal position. The strap 1502 may be attached to one or more support rods 1510 of the headrest 1508.
FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate one or more apertures 107 with attaching mechanisms 113 for connecting straps on a periphery of the platform 100. In one embodiment, two apertures 107 may be on one set of equal and opposite corners of the components 102, 104 and two apertures 107 may be inset relative to the other set of equal and opposite corners of the components 102, 104. In one embodiment, the attaching mechanisms 113 are push pins with pull tabs such as those shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B; however, other attaching mechanisms known by one of ordinary skill in the art within the scope of the invention. The push pins 113 may reversibly engage with the apertures 107 to secure the strap to the platform 100 when positioned on, e.g., the back of a car, train or plane seat.
FIGS. 17A and 17B illustrate a mechanism by which the straps 1502 may be attached to support rods 1510 of the headrest 1508.
FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate a top and a bottom view, respectively, of a multi-use mobile foldable working platform in a folded state according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. As shown, the platform 1800 includes a first rigid flat component 1802 and a second rigid flat component 1804 hingedly connected together. Each component 1802 and 1804 may have a periphery defined by four edges and one component 1802, 1804 may be sized differently relative to the other, i.e., the component 1802 may be smaller relative to the component 1804. Each component 1802, 1804 may be approximately rectangular in configuration; however, other suitable geometric shapes are within the scope of the invention. In the configuration in which each component 1802, 1804 are rectangular in configuration, each corner of each component 1802, 1804 may be rounded; however, straight-edged corners are within the scope of the invention. A material which may comprise the platform includes aluminum or any other equivalent suitable material of sufficient rigidity to serve as a working platform.
As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the components 1802 and 1804 are hingedly connected by a hinge 1805. According to this embodiment, the point of connection between the components 1802 and 1804, namely, hinge 1805, is inset relative to an edge of the component 1804 (the larger component) but at an edge of the component 1802 (the smaller component). As such, a portion 1804 a of the component 1804 may have a smaller thickness relative to a remaining portion 1804 b of the component 1804 and to the entirety of the component 1802 (the smaller component). Thus, when the components 1802, 1804 are in a fully expanded state, a substantially or completely flat single surface is provided (see FIG. 21). The hinge 1805 according to this embodiment provides rigidity at the folding point among other benefits.
FIG. 20 illustrates the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a partially folded state.
FIG. 21 illustrates the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely expanded state.
FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely expanded state with a locking mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown, one or more locking mechanisms 1828 may be located on the platform 1800 at or near the hinged connection 1805 of the components 1802 and 1804. The locking mechanism 1828 may be a spring-loaded sliding mechanism or any other suitable locking mechanism. When the components 1802 and 1804 are in a fully expanded state, the locking mechanism 1828 may be engaged, i.e., by applying force with a thumb and moving it to the left or to the right, and then released to lock the components 1802, 1804 together providing a single surface.
FIG. 24 illustrates a user using the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely folded state.
FIG. 25 illustrates a user using the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely expanded state.
FIG. 26 illustrates the multi-use mobile foldable working platform of FIG. 18 in a completely expanded state with an accessory holder or tray according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown, the accessory holder or tray 1814 (having a plurality of openings 1820) may be attachable to platform 1800 by one or more fingers or snaps 1830 a that engage with corresponding one or more apertures 1830 b on the platform 1800. For example, at least two hinges 1830 a may be approximately “hooked” such that they can easily insert into corresponding at least two apertures 1830 b when held in an approximately vertical position relative to the platform 1800 (shown in a horizontal position in this view). After hingedly connecting the tray 1814 to the platform 1800, the tray 1814 may be folded down such that it is approximately horizontally coplanar with an edge of the platform 1800. In this respect, the tray 1814 may receive and hold one or more objects such as, but not limited to, a cup (or beverage), a pen and computer accessories such as a USB flash drive. Note that the holders or trays 1814 may be positioned in on different, right-angled sides of the platform 1800 to allow users flexibility in using the platform under different circumstances (see FIGS. 27, 28).
FIG. 29 illustrates a support structure for use with a multi-use mobile foldable working platform according to an embodiment of the invention. As shown, the support structure 2902 may include a plurality of connecting members 2904 which may connect to form a structure which is positionable on the sides of a user while simultaneously holding a platform 2900 such as those described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 18. According to the embodiment shown, two L-shaped members 2904 a and 2904 b may hingedly connected via hinges 2905 a and 2905 b to a U-shaped member 2906 such that the U-shaped member 2906 is “cradled” (but at a distance) within an area defined by the L-shaped members 2904 a, 2904 b. In one embodiment, the support structure 2902 may include a lateral member 2908 spanning the distance between arms of the U-shaped member 2906. The lateral member 2908 may provide additional support to the platform 2900.
According to embodiments of the invention, the support structure 2902 may support a platform 2900 as shown in FIG. 30. The platform 2900 may connect to the support structure 2902 via a plurality of push pins with pull tabs 2909 by passing through one or more apertures on the platform 2900 and then passing through one or more corresponding apertures on the platform 2900, as shown; however, other attaching mechanisms known by one of ordinary skill in the art within the scope of the invention. The support structure 2902 may fold into a collapsible state such as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32. That is, the two L-shaped members 2904 a and 2904 b rotate inward while the U-shaped member 2906 folds against the two L-shaped members 2904 a and 2904 b. In one embodiment, the connecting members 2904 may telescope within each other to further compact the support structure 2902 during transport or storage thereof. Advantageously, the support structure 2902 provides support to a work surface so that a user in a seated position, e.g., on a train, car or plane, or chair, can comfortably while in transit or while stationary.
While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention is not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A multi-use mobile foldable working platform, comprising:

a first rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges;

a second rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges hingedly connected to the first rigid flat component wherein the first and second rigid flat components are configured to fold relative to one another in a range of between about zero degrees and about one-hundred and eighty degrees;

at least one extractable accessory tray slidably engaged with one of the first and second rigid flat components, the accessory tray extractable beyond one of the peripheries thereof; and

a plurality of apertures on at least one of the first and second rigid flat components.

2. The platform of claim 1 wherein the first rigid flat component has a first interior face and a first exterior face, the first interior face having a compressible padding thereon.

3. The platform of claim 2 wherein the second rigid flat component has a second interior face and a second exterior face, the second interior face having a compressible padding thereon.

4. The platform of claim 3 wherein, in a complete folded state, the first interior face is adjacent to the second interior face.

5. The platform of claim 3 wherein, in a complete expanded state, the first exterior face is coplanar with the second exterior face and forming a single surface.

6. The platform of claim 1 wherein each of first and second rigid flat components includes an opening at each exterior corner thereon, each opening adapted to receive a portion of an adjustable strap.

7. The platform of claim 6, further comprising: an adjustable strap for horizontally suspending the platform adjacent to a perpendicular surface.

8. The platform of claim 1, further comprising, a plurality of symmetrically spaced apertures, the apertures providing a vent for a removable fan positionable on either the first or second interior components.

9. The platform of claim 1 wherein the at least one extractable accessory tray includes a plurality of apertures, each aperture configured to receive and hold an object.

10. The platform of claim 9 wherein the object is at least one of a pen, a cup or a USB flash drive.

11. The platform of claim 9 wherein a thickness of the at least one extractable accessory tray is less than a thickness of each of first and second rigid flat components.

12. The platform of claim 1, further comprising: a support structure comprising two supporting members for positioning on the sides of a user in a seated position and a supporting platform member for supporting the platform in an angled position.

13. The platform of claim 12 wherein the supporting members collapse into the supporting platform member and, when collapsed, approximate a shape defined by the supporting platform member.

14. A platform, comprising:

a first rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges, the first rigid flat component having a first size; and

a second rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges hingedly connected to the first rigid flat component, the hinged connection between an edge of the first rigid flat component and inset relative to an edge of the second rigid flat component, the second rigid flat component having a second size wherein the first size is smaller than the second size, wherein the first and second rigid flat components are configured to fold relative to one another in a range of between about zero degrees and about one-hundred and eighty degrees.

15. The platform of claim 14, wherein the second rigid flat component comprises a recessed portion and a remaining portion, the recessed portion having a thickness less than a thickness of the remaining portion, wherein the hinged connection is at the area where the recessed portion meets the remaining portion and wherein the recessed portion covers a corresponding portion of the second component such that the components are coplanar relative to one another when in an unfolded state, the unfolded state providing a work surface.

16. The platform of claim 14, wherein the first rigid flat component and the second rigid flat component include rounded corners, wherein a folded state the first rigid flat component operates as a working surface and in an unfolded state both the first and second rigid flat components operate as the working surface

17. The platform of claim 14, further comprising: at least one removable accessory tray configured to engage with at least one aperture on one of the first and second rigid flat components, the accessory tray substantially coplanar with the first and second components when the platform is being used by a user.

18. The platform of claim 14 wherein a strap horizontally suspends the platform adjacent to a perpendicular surface via coupling to the first and second rigid flat components.

19. The platform of claim 14, further comprising: a support structure comprising two supporting members for positioning on the sides of a user in a seated position and a supporting platform member for supporting the platform in an angled position.

20. A kit for providing a work surface while a user is in a seated position, the kit having a plurality of component parts for providing the work surface, the kit comprising:

a work surface comprising:

a first rigid flat component having a periphery defined by four edges;

at least one accessory tray attached to one of the first and second rigid flat components, the accessory tray coplanar with the components when the components are being used by a user; and

a plurality of apertures on at least one of the first and second rigid flat components;

a support structure comprising two supporting members for positioning on the sides of a user in a seated position and a supporting work surface member for supporting the work surface in an angled position; and

a plurality of pins to attach the work surface to the support structure.

21. The kit of claim 20 wherein the first and second components are the same size and wherein an edge of the first component is hingedly connected to an edge of the second component.

22. The kit of claim 20 wherein the first component is smaller relative to the second component and wherein an edge of the first component is hingedly connected at an inset recessed portion of the second component.