US20220395089A1

US20220395089A1 - Locking mechanism for a table leg assembly

Info

Publication number: US20220395089A1
Application number: US17/348,564
Authority: US
Inventors: S. Curtis Nye
Original assignee: Lifetime Products Inc
Current assignee: Lifetime Products Inc
Priority date: 2021-06-15
Filing date: 2021-06-15
Publication date: 2022-12-15

Abstract

A table may include a tabletop and a support structure sized and configured to support the tabletop above a surface. The support structure may be movable between use and collapsed positions relative to the tabletop, and a locking mechanism may lock the support structure in a fixed position relative to the tabletop. The locking mechanism may include a locking member eccentrically rotatable relative to a lower portion of the tabletop, and the locking member may be rotatable between a locked position in which the locking member engages a locking notch and an unlocked position in which the locking member is spaced part from the locking notch. The locking mechanism may a control mechanism that facilitates movement of the locking member between the locked and unlocked positions. A retaining assembly may be sized and configured to retain the control mechanism in a fixed position.

Description

BACKGROUND

Field

The present invention generally relates to furniture, such as tables, benches, and chairs, and, in particular, to leg assemblies and locking mechanisms for that may be implemented in tables, benches, and other structures.

Description of Related Art

Many types of tables are well known and used for a variety of different purposes. For example, conventional tables may include legs that are pivotally attached to a tabletop and the legs may be movable between a use position in which the legs extend outwardly from the tabletop and a storage position in which the legs are folded against an underneath portion of the tabletop. Conventional tables with relatively large tabletops and folding legs are often referred to as “banquet tables” or “utility tables” and these types of tables are frequently used in assembly halls, banquet halls, convention centers, hotels, schools, churches, and other locations where large groups of people meet. When the tables are no longer needed, the table legs can be moved into the storage position and the tables may be moved or stored.
The tabletops of conventional banquet tables are relatively large. For example, many known banquet tables have a length between six and ten feet and a width between three and four feet. As a result, many conventional banquet tables require a large storage area even when the legs are in the storage position. This large storage area may be especially problematic for larger facilities, such as hotels, schools, and churches, because a considerable number of tables may have to be stored. Thus, a significant amount of storage space may be required. In addition, smaller facilities, such as restaurants, offices, and homes, may use one or more conventional banquet tables. These smaller facilities may use the tables less frequently, such as during special occasions and events. Conventional banquet tables, even when the legs are folded, are often too bulky and awkward to be conveniently stored at such smaller facilities. As a result, it is often necessary for both larger and smaller facilities to rent and/or borrow banquet tables when needed. Disadvantageously, renting and/or borrowing banquet tables can be inconvenient, time consuming, and costly. Further, renting and/or borrowing banquet tables may be difficult because transportation of the tables may be problematic because of the large size of the tables.
It is also known to construct tables that are capable of being folded in half. Many conventional fold-in-half tables include a tabletop with two sections pivotally connected by hinges. The sections of the tabletop usually have the same size and shape, and the hinges are typically located at the center of the tabletop. The sections of the tabletop may be moved between an unfolded or use position in which the sections of the tabletop are generally aligned in the same plane, and a folded or collapsed position in which the sections are positioned generally adjacent to each other for storage.
Disadvantageously, many conventional fold-in-half tables are relatively difficult and time consuming to use. For example, multiple steps may be required to set up and take down conventional fold-in-half tables. For instance, known fold-in-half tables may have to be unfolded, a first leg assembly moved from a storage to use position, a second leg assembly moved from a storage to use positions, a first cross brace moved into a locked position, a second cross brace moved into a locked position, a first locking ring moved into a locked position to secure the first leg assembly in a locked position, a second locking ring moved into a locked position to secure the second leg assembly in a locked position, and then a sliding bolt may be used to lock the tabletop in the use or unfolded position. Thus, numerous steps may be required before the table can be used. In addition, many of the same steps may be required to fold or store the table. For instance, the sliding bolt may have to be manually unlocked and the locking rings moved from the locked to the unlocked positions. The first cross brace moved from the locked position to an unlocked position, and the second cross brace moved from the locked position to an unlocked position. The first and second leg assemblies may then be moved from the use to the storage positions, and then the tabletop may be folded into the collapsed position. Therefore, a number of steps may be required each time the table is desired to be used, moved, and/or stored.
Conventional tables may include a frame that is connected to the tabletop. The frame may include a pair of side rails connected to sides of the tabletop. Additionally, conventional tables may include components, such as cross braces, that help stabilize the table when the table is being used. The cross braces may extend into the volume or space disposed below the tabletop. The cross braces of some conventional tables may extend from a midpoint of the legs to a center portion of the table. The cross braces may restrict or limit a user's placement of his or her legs below the tabletop, restrict a number of chairs placed below the tabletop, or restrict a number of users who can comfortably sit at the table.
The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments, such as those described. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where some embodiments described herein may be practiced.

BRIEF SUMMARY

A need therefore exists for a table that eliminates or diminishes the disadvantages and problems described above.
One aspect is a table that may include a tabletop and one or more support structures or legs. The support structures may be movable between an extended or use position and a collapsed or storage position relative to the tabletop. When the support structures are in the use position, the support structures may extend outwardly and away from the tabletop. When the support structures are in the collapsed position, the support structures may be disposed generally parallel and at least proximate a lower portion of the tabletop. A portion of the support structures may contact or abut the lower portion of the tabletop when the support structures are in the collapsed position. Advantageously, when the support structures are in the use position, the table may support a wide variety of objects and the table may be used for different purposes. When the support structures are in the collapsed position, the table may be more easily moved, stored, and/or transported.
Another aspect is a table that may include a tabletop constructed from plastic, and the plastic tabletop may be constructed using a blow-molding process. Advantageously, a blow-molded plastic tabletop may be lightweight, easily constructed, and/or formed into a desired size, shape, configuration, and/or design. The blow-molded plastic tabletop may also be generally weather resistant and temperature insensitive, which may allow the table to be used in a wide variety of locations and environments. In addition, the blow-molded plastic tabletop may be durable, long-lasting, and corrosion resistant. Further, the blow-molded plastic tabletop may be relatively strong and able to support a large amount of weight. The blow-molded plastic tabletop may form a structural member of the table, and the blow-molded plastic tabletop may include one or more features that are integrally formed as part of a unitary, one-piece construction.
Advantageously, a blow-molded plastic tabletop may be relatively strong because it may include opposing walls, and the opposing walls may be separated by a distance. For example, the opposing walls may be separated by a generally constant distance. The tabletop may also include one or more features, such as depressions, and the depressions may be disposed in a generally uniform configuration and/or arrangement. The generally unfirm configuration and/or arrangement of the depressions may help create a tabletop with generally uniform properties such as strength, rigidity, and structural integrity. In addition, because the blow-molded plastic tabletop may include hollow interior portions, the blow-molded plastic tabletop may be lightweight. Thus, the blow-molded plastic tabletop may be lightweight, strong, and sturdy. The tabletop could also be formed from other suitable processes, such as injection molding, rotational molding, extrusion processes, vacuum forming, thermoforming, and the like. The tabletop could be constructed using other materials such as metal (including steel, aluminum, etc.), polymers, composites, natural materials, and the like.
Still another aspect is a table that may include a frame attached to the tabletop. The frame may include one or more elongated members, such as rails and/or siderails. For example, the table may include siderails disposed at least proximate the sides of the tabletop, and the siderails may extend along a length of the tabletop.
Still yet another aspect is a table that may include a table leg locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may lock one or more table legs in a fixed position. The locking mechanism may be unlocked to facilitate movement of the table legs. For instance, the locking mechanism may lock the table legs in the use position. The locking mechanism may also lock the table legs in other positions, such as collapsed or storage positions. The locking mechanism may include a locking member, and the locking member may be rotatably connected in an off-centered or eccentric configuration. Advantageously, the locking mechanism may simply and quickly lock the table leg in a fixed position. In addition, the locking mechanism may easily and efficiently be unlocked. Further, the locking mechanism may provide increased leg room and space underneath the tabletop because the locking mechanism may not encroach into the user's area under the tabletop when the table legs are in the use position.
A further aspect is a folding table that may include a locking mechanism with a locking member that engages a locking notch. When the locking member is engaged with the locking notch, the table legs may be secured in a locked position. When the locking member is spaced apart from the locking notch, the table legs may be moved from the locked position.
A still further aspect is a table that may be quickly and easily manufactured. In particular, the table may include relatively few components and the components may be quickly and easily produced. Additionally, a rather straightforward design may facilitate manufacturing of the table. The table may also have increased reliability because it may have few moving parts. The locking mechanism securely hold the table legs in a fixed position, which may allow the table to support a large amount of weight.
Another aspect is a table that may include a tabletop, and a support structure may be sized and configured to support the tabletop above a surface. The support structure may include one or more legs or supports. The support structure may be movable between a use position and a collapsed position relative to the tabletop. A bracket may rotatably connect the support structure to the tabletop, and the bracket may include a locking notch. A locking mechanism may be sized and configured to lock the support structure in a fixed position relative to the tabletop. The locking mechanism may include a locking member that is eccentrically rotatable relative to a lower portion of the tabletop. The locking member may be rotatable between a locked position in which the locking member engages the locking notch, such as when the support structure is in the use position, and an unlocked position in which the locking member is spaced part from the locking notch. A control arm or control mechanism may be connected to the locking member, and the control mechanism may facilitate movement of the locking member between the locked and unlocked positions. A retaining assembly may be connected to the tabletop, and the retaining assembly may be sized and configured to retain the control mechanism in a fixed position.
Still another aspect is a table that may include a plate connected to the tabletop. A bracket may be rotatably connected to the plate, and a locking member of a locking mechanism may be rotatably connected to the plate. A projection may rotatably connect the locking member to the plate, and an axis of rotation of the projection may not be aligned with a central axis of the locking member, which may provide eccentric rotation of the locking member relative to the plate. A frame may be connected to the tabletop, and the support structure and/or the locking member may be rotatably connected to the frame. A retaining assembly may include a base connected to the lower portion of the tabletop, and a control mechanism of the locking mechanism may be disposed in a receiving portion of the retaining assembly, which may secure the control mechanism in a fixed position. The retaining assembly may include a biasing member that is sized and configured to bias the retaining assembly into a closed position. When the locking mechanism is in the locked position and the support structure is in the use position, the locking mechanism may lock the support structure in the use position. When the locking mechanism is in the unlocked position, the support structure may be movable between the use and collapsed positions. When the support structure is in the collapsed position, the locking mechanism may be disposed in the locked position. When the locking mechanism is in the locked position and the support structure is in the use position, the locking mechanism may be unlocked by eccentric rotation of the locking member. The locking member may engage the locking notch when the support structure is in the use position with a cam motion. For example, as the locking member is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position with the support structure disposed in the use position, a cam motion of the locking member may cause the locking member to engage the locking notch. The locking member may be connected to a first portion of a frame on a first side of the tabletop and a second portion of the frame on a second side of the tabletop, and the support structure may include a first leg rotatably connected to the first side of the tabletop and a second leg rotatably connected to the second side of the tabletop.
Yet another aspect is a locking mechanism for a support structure for a table. The support structure may be sized and configured to support a tabletop above a surface, and the support structure may be movable between a use position and a collapsed position relative to the tabletop. The locking mechanism may include a plate sized and configured to be connected to a tabletop, a strut may be rotatably connected to the plate, the strut may be movable between a first position in which a support structure is disposed in a use position and a second position in which the support structure is disposed in a collapsed position, a locking notch may be disposed in the strut, and a locking member may be eccentrically connected to the plate with an axis of rotation of the locking member offset from a central axis of the locking member. The locking member may be movable between a locked position in which the locking member engages the locking notch and an unlocked position in which the locking member is spaced apart from the locking notch.
Still yet another aspect is locking mechanism for a support structure for a table that may include a strut connected to a support structure, or the strut may be part of the support structure. A control mechanism may be connected to the locking member, and the control mechanism may facilitate movement of the locking member between the locked and unlocked positions. A retaining assembly may be sized and configured to be connected to a tabletop, and the retaining assembly may be sized and configured to retain the control mechanism of the locking member in a fixed position.
A further aspect is a method of locking a support structure of a table in a fixed position. The table may include a tabletop and a support structure movable between a use position and a collapsed position relative to the tabletop. The table may include a locking member eccentrically rotatable relative to a lower portion of the tabletop, and the locking member may be eccentrically rotatable between a locked position in which the locking member engages a locking notch and an unlocked position in which the locking member is spaced apart from the locking notch. The method may include moving the support structure of the table from the collapsed position to the use position, and rotating the eccentrically rotatable locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position to fix the support structure in the use position.
Another further aspect is a method of locking a support structure of a table in a fixed position. For example, rotating an eccentrically rotatable locking mechanism may allow the locking member to be disposed in the locking notch and spaced apart from the locking notch without a user moving the support structure. The method may include disposing the locking member in the fixed position by positioning a control mechanism of the locking member in a retaining assembly. The method may include unlocking the support structure by moving the control mechanism away from the retaining assembly, rotating the control mechanism to move the locking member from the locked position to the unlocked position, and moving the support structure from the use position to the collapsed position. The method may include rotating the control mechanism towards the retaining assembly, and securing the locking member in the fixed position by disposing the control mechanism of the locking member in the retaining assembly. The method may include rotating the eccentrically rotatable locking member about a projection connected to a plate. An axis of rotation of the locking member may be offset from a central axis of the locking member, and the method may include rotating the support structure about a pivot point connected to the plate.
These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following brief description of the drawings, the drawings, the detailed description of preferred embodiments and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments to further illustrate and clarify the above and other aspects, advantages, and features of the present invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict only preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A is an upper perspective view of an exemplary table, illustrating exemplary support structures in extended or use positions;

FIG. 1B is a lower perspective view of the exemplary table, illustrating exemplary support structures in extended or use positions and exemplary locking mechanisms in a locked position;

FIG. 1C is a lower perspective view of the exemplary table, illustrating exemplary support structures in partially collapsed or partially extended positions, and exemplary locking mechanisms in unlocked positions;

FIG. 1D is a lower perspective view of the exemplary table, illustrating exemplary support structures in collapsed positions and exemplary locking mechanisms in unlocked positions;

FIG. 1E is a lower perspective view of the exemplary table, illustrating exemplary support structures in collapsed positions and exemplary locking mechanisms in locked positions;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a portion of an exemplary table, illustrating an exemplary support structure in a use position and an exemplary locking mechanism in a locked position;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a portion of the exemplary table, illustrating an exemplary support structure in a use position and an exemplary locking mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of a portion of the exemplary table, illustrating an exemplary support structure in a partially collapsed or partially extended position, and an exemplary locking mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 2D is a perspective view of a portion of the exemplary table, illustrating an exemplary support structure in a collapsed position and an exemplary locking mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 2E is a perspective view of a portion of the exemplary table, illustrating an exemplary support structure in a collapsed position and an exemplary locking mechanism in a locked position;

FIG. 3A is a partial cutaway sideview of a portion of an exemplary table, illustrating an exemplary support structure in a use position and an exemplary locking mechanism in a locked position;

FIG. 3B is a partial cutaway sideview of a portion of the exemplary table, illustrating an exemplary support structure in a partially collapsed or partially extended position, and an exemplary locking mechanism in an unlocked position; and

FIG. 3C is a partial cutaway sideview of a portion of the exemplary table, illustrating an exemplary support structure in a collapsed position and an exemplary locking mechanism in a locked position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is generally directed towards furniture, such as locking mechanisms for table legs or table support structures. The principles of the present invention, however, are not limited to locking mechanisms for table legs or table support structures. It will be understood that, in light of the present disclosure, the locking mechanism may be successfully used in connection with other types of structures, devices, and the like.
Additionally, to assist in the description of the locking mechanism, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, right and left may be used to describe the accompanying figures. It will be appreciated the locking mechanism may be disposed in other positions and/or arrangements, used in a variety of situations, and may perform different functions. In addition, the drawings may be to scale, and the drawings may illustrate various shapes, sizes, configurations, arrangements, aspects, and features of the locking mechanism and accompanying structures. It will be appreciated that the locking mechanism, components of the locking mechanism, and accompanying structures may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the locking mechanism. Further, the locking mechanism and accompanying structures may include any suitable number or combination of components, aspects, features, and the like. While the locking mechanism and accompanying structures may include various components, aspects, features, and the like, one or more of these components, aspects, features, and the like may not be required. A detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the locking mechanism now follows.
As shown in the accompanying figures, an exemplary table 10 may include a tabletop 12 with an upper portion or surface 14, a lower portion or surface 16, a first side 18, a second side 20, a first end 22, and a second end 24. The upper portion 14 of the tabletop 12 may have a generally planar configuration, and the upper portion 14 of the tabletop 12 may create a working surface. The upper portion 14 of the tabletop 12 may be textured, and the tabletop 12 may include an outer perimeter or edge 26. The tabletop 12 may include a lip 28, and the lip 28 may be disposed about the periphery or perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12. As shown in the accompanying figures, the lip 28 may have different heights, and the lip 28 may not extend about the entire perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12. The lip 28 may also have different configurations. For example, the lip 28 may have generally the same size and configuration along the first and second sides 18, 20 of the tabletop 12, and the lip 28 may have a different size and configuration along the first and second ends 22, 24. For instance, the lip 28 may include one or more ribs 30 along the first and second ends 22, 24 of the tabletop 12. The ribs 30 may include a plurality of grooves, channels, serrations, and the like, and the ribs 30 may be generally aligned. The ribs 30 may be disposed at least proximate the edge 26 of the tabletop 12, and the ribs 30 may have a generally constant size, shape, configuration, and/or arrangement. The ribs 30 may also be separate from the lip 28. The lip 28 and/or ribs 30 may be sized and configured to create a table 10 with pleasing aesthetics, and the lip 28 and/or ribs 30 may be sized and configured to cover, conceal, and/or protect portions of the table 10, such as a frame and/or support structures.
The tabletop 12 may include other features and aspects, such as grooves, recesses, and receiving portions. The perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12 may be beveled, sloped, and/or rounded. The first and/or second sides 18, 20 of the tabletop 12 may be angled, such as angled outwardly, and the first and second ends 22, 24 of the tabletop 12 may be angled, such as angled inwardly. The angled sides 18, 20 and/or ends 22, 24 may be generally complementary, which may allow adjacent tables 10 to be disposed in various configurations and arrangements. After reviewing this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the sides 18, 20, the ends 22, 24, the edges 26, the lip 28, and the ribs 30 may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10.
As shown in the accompanying figures, the lip 28 may extend downwardly relative to the upper portion 14 and/or the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12. The lip 28 may also be disposed near or at least proximate the perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12. For example, the lip 28 may extend downwardly relative to the upper portion 14 and the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12, and the lip 28 may be aligned with and/or form at least a part of the perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12. It will be appreciated that all or a portion the lip 28 may be spaced inwardly from the perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12. While the exemplary tables 10 and the exemplary tabletops 12 shown in the accompanying figures include the lip 28 and the ribs 30, it will be appreciated that the lip 28, the ribs 30, and other features and aspects of the table 10 may not be required or necessary. It will also be appreciated that the table 10 and its various components may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10. It will further be appreciated that the table 10 can include any suitable number of features, aspects, and the like, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,530,331; 7,111,563; 7,475,643; 7,814,844; and 7,975,625; each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
As shown in the accompanying figures, the tabletop 12 may have a generally rectangular configuration. For example, the tabletop 12 may have a length between about four feet and about ten feet, such as a length such of about five feet, about six feet, about eight feet, and the like. The tabletop 12 may have a width between about two feet and about three feet, such as about two feet or about two and one-half feet. It will be appreciated that the length and/or width of the tabletop 12 could be larger or smaller, and it will be appreciated that the tabletop 12 could have other suitable shapes, sizes, and configurations such as square, circular, oval, and the like. It will also be appreciated that the sides, ends, edges, and other portions of the tabletop 12 could have various shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10. Further, the table 10 could be any suitable type of table such as a folding table, non-folding table, card table, personal table, round table, conference table, and the like. The table 10 could also be used for various purposes such as a desk, support structure, display, etc.
The tabletop 12 may be constructed from lightweight materials such as plastic. In particular, the tabletop 12 may be constructed from materials such as high-density polyethylene, but other suitable plastics and types of materials may also be used. The tabletop 12 may be formed using a blow-molding process, and blow-molding may allow a relatively strong, lightweight, rigid, and/or sturdy tabletop 12 to be created. The tabletop 12 may be rather quickly and inexpensively manufactured, and a blow-molded plastic tabletop 12 may be relatively durable, weather resistant, temperature insensitive, corrosion resistant, rust resistant, and may not deteriorate over time. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the tabletop 12 does not have to be constructed from blow-molded plastic and other suitable materials and/or processes can be used to construct the tabletop 12. For example, the tabletop 12 may be constructed from other types of plastics, polymers, synthetic materials, natural materials, and the like. The tabletop 12 may also be formed from processes such as injection molding, rotational molding, rotary molding, etc. In addition, the tabletop 12 may be constructed from other materials with sufficient strength and desirable characteristics such as wood, metal, alloys, composites, fiberglass, ceramics, and the like.
The tabletop 12 may include spaced apart outer walls, such as the upper surface 14 and the lower surface 16, which may help create a strong and rigid tabletop 12. For instance, the upper and lower surfaces 14, 16 of the tabletop 12 may be separated by a distance, and the distance may be a generally constant distance. The upper and lower surfaces 14, 16 of the tabletop 12 may be generally aligned and/or disposed in generally parallel planes. The tabletop 12 may include one or more depressions 32, which may also be known as tack-offs. The depressions 32 may be disposed in the lower surface 16 of the tabletop 12, and the depressions 32 may be sized and configured to increase the strength, structural integrity, and/or rigidity of the tabletop 12. The depressions 32 may also be used to create a tabletop 12 with more uniform properties and characteristics, and the depressions 32 may cover a majority, substantially all, or the entire lower surface 16 of the tabletop 12. Advantageously, the depressions 32 may be integrally formed with the tabletop 12 as part of a unitary, one-piece construction, and the depressions 32 may be formed in any desired portions of the tabletop 12. The depressions 32, and other portions of the table 10, may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements, and may include other features, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,069,865; 7,114,453; 7,143,702; and 7,210,277; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006-0230989; each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
The table 10 may include one or more support structures sized and configured to support the tabletop 12 above a surface. For example, the table 10 may include a first support structure 34 and a second support structure 36, and each support structure may include one or more legs or supports. For instance, the first and second support structures 34, 36 may include a first leg 38 and a second leg 40. The first and second legs 38, 40 may be connected by one or more connecting portions, such as a connecting member 42. The support structures 34, 36 may be movable between an extended or use position in which the support structures 34, 36 extend outwardly from the tabletop 12, and a collapsed or storage position in which the support structures 34, 36 are disposed at least proximate the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12. After reviewing this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will be appreciated that the table 10 may include any suitable number, size, shape, configuration, and/or arrangement of the support structures 34, 36; the legs 38, 40; and/or the connecting members 42.
As seen in the accompanying figures, the table 10 may include a frame 44 and the frame 44 may be connected to the tabletop 12. The frame 44 may include one or more elongated members, such as rails and/or siderails. For example, a first siderail 46 may be disposed at least proximate the first side 18 of the tabletop 12, and a second siderail 48 may be disposed at least proximate the second side 20 of the tabletop 12. The first siderail 46 may include one or more angled portions, such as a first angled portion 50 and a second angled portion 52. The second siderail 48 may include one or more angled portions, such as a first angled portion 54 and a second angled portion 56. The first and second angled portions 50, 52, 54, 56 may be disposed towards one or more ends of the first and second siderails 46, 48. The siderails 46, 48 and angled portions 50, 52, 54, 56 may be sized and configured to allow the first and second support structures 34, 36 to be disposed in the collapsed position. In addition, the first and second support structures 34, 36 may be tapered or angled, which may facilitate disposing the first and second support structures 34, 36 in the collapsed position. After reviewing this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the frame 44 may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10. For example, the frame 44 could include one or more features or aspects such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,555,789, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
The first and second support structures 34, 36 may be movable relative to the tabletop 12, and the first and second support structures 34, 36 may be connected to the frame 44. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the support structures 34, 36 may be disposed in use or extended positions. As shown in FIG. 1C, the support structures 34, 36 may be disposed in a partially collapsed or closed configuration. As shown in FIGS. 1D and 1E, the support structures 34, 36 may be disposed in collapsed or storage configurations.
As shown in FIGS. 2A-2E, the first support structure 34 may be connected to a bracket 60, and the bracket 60 may be rotatably connected to the table 10. For example, the bracket 60 may be rotatably connected to the frame 44, such the second side rail 48. If desired, the bracket 60 may be rotatably connected to a stationary structure, such as a plate 62. The plate 62 may have a generally planar configuration, and the plate 62 may be connected to the side rail 48 of the frame 44. The bracket 60 may be rotatably connected to the plate 62 by a connecting member 64, such as a rivet, screw, connector, and the like. As shown in the accompanying figures, the bracket 60 may have a generally L-shaped configuration and a support 66, such as a reinforcing support or reinforcing member. The support 66 may reinforce or strengthen the bracket 60, and the support 66 may not be necessary depending, for example, upon the type of bracket 60 and/or the intended use of the table 10.
The support structure 34 may be connected to the bracket 60. For example, as shown in the accompanying figures, the leg 40 may be connected to the bracket 60. It will be appreciated that any desired portion of the first and/or second support structures 34, 36 may be connected to the bracket 60, and the bracket 60 and the first and/or second support structure 34, 36 may be part of a unitary, one-piece structure. Thus, for example, the bracket 60 could be part of the first and/or second support structures 34, 36.
As shown in the accompanying figures, the support structure 34 may be rotatable relative to the tabletop 12 because the bracket 60 may be rotatably connected to the frame 44. In addition, the bracket 60 may include a receiving portion 68, such as a locking notch. The locking notch 68 may be sized and configured to receive a portion of a locking mechanism 70, and the locking mechanism 70 may be sized and configured to lock a support structure, such as the first support structure and/or the second support structure 34, 36, in a fixed position. In particular, the locking mechanism 70 may be sized and configured to lock the first and/or second support structures 34, 36 in a use position. It will be appreciated that the locking mechanism 70 may also lock the first and/or second support structures 34, 36 in other positions, such as the collapsed position.
The locking mechanism 70 may include a locking member 72, and the locking member 72 may be sized and configured to be at least partially disposed in the locking notch 68 when the locking mechanism 70 is in the locked position and the support structure 34 is in the use position. The locking member 72 may be connected to the frame 44 and/or the plate 62. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking member 72 may be rotatably connected to the plate 62. The locking member 72 may be off-centered or eccentrically connected with an axis of rotation of the locking member 72 may not be aligned with a center portion or central axis of the locking member 72. For instance, the locking member 72 may be a rod, tube, or other structure with a generally cylindrical configuration. The axis of rotation of the locking member 72, however, may not be aligned with a central axis of the locking member 72. For example, the locking member 72 may be rotatably connected to the bracket by one or more rotational members, projections, pins (such as the pins 90 discussed in connection with FIGS. 3A-3C), and the like. The rotational members may be disposed towards one side of the locking member 72, and the rotational members may not be aligned with a central portion of the locking member 72. Thus, the locking member 72 may rotate about an axis aligned with the rotational members, and the axis of rotation of the locking member 72 may not be aligned or concentric with a center axis of the locking member 72. An off-centered cam or a cam type motion may be created because the rotation of the locking member 72 may be situated away or spaced part from the center axis of the locking member 72.
When the support structure 34 is disposed in the use position, such as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the locking member 72 may be disposed in the locking notch 68. When the locking member 72 is removed or extracted from the locking notch 68, the support structure 34 may be moved from the fixed position. That is, when the support structure 34 is in the use position and the locking member 72 is disposed in the locking notch 68, the locking mechanism 70 may secure the support structure 34 in a fixed position. When the locking member 72 is not disposed in the locking notch 68, the support structure 34 may be movable relative to the tabletop 12.
The off-centered or eccentric movement of the locking member 72 may allow the locking member 72 to be disposed in the locking notch 68 when the support structure 34 is in the use position. The off-centered or eccentric movement of the locking member 72 may also allow the locking member 72 to be removed or withdrawn from the locking notch 68, and the support 34 may remain in a generally fixed position when the locking member 72 is moved between the locked and unlocked positions.
Movement of the locking member 72 may be facilitated by control mechanism 74, such as a lever, arm, and the like. The control mechanism 74 may be connected to the locking member 72, and the control mechanism 74 may facilitate rotation of the locking member 72 and/or movement of the locking member 72 between the locked and unlocked positions. The control mechanism 74 may have a generally cylindrical configuration, and the control mechanism 74 may be an elongated rod, tube, cylinder, etc. It will be appreciated that the control mechanism 74 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements, such as flat, curved, square, and the like. The control mechanism 74 may also include other components, such as a grip or handle.
The control mechanism 74 may be secured in a fixed location by a retaining assembly 76. For example, the retaining assembly 76 may be sized and configured to hold the control mechanism 74 in a fixed position relative to the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12. Securing the control mechanism 74 in a fixed position may secure the locking member 72 in a fixed position, which may be used to lock the support structure 34 in a fixed position.
The retaining assembly 76 may be attached to a portion of the table 10, such as the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12. For example, the retaining assembly 76 may include a base 78 that is attached to the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12. The base 78 may be attached to the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12 by fasteners, adhesives, and the like. The retaining assembly 76 may include a rotating member 80 that is rotatably attached to the base 78. A biasing member 82, such as a spring, may be used to bias the rotating member 80 into a desired position, such as a closed position. The rotating member 80 may include a receiving portion 84, and the receiving portion 84 may be sized and configured to receive a portion of the control mechanism 74. The rotating member 80 may also include a gripping portion 86, and the gripping portion may be is sized and configured to be gripped by a user. The gripping portion 86 may extend outwardly from an outer surface of the rotating member 80, and the gripping portion 86 may facilitate opening of the retaining assembly 76. The gripping portion 86 may also movement of the rotating member 80 between open and/or closed positions. The rotating member 80 may include one or more guides 88, and the guides 88 may help control rotation of the rotating member 80 and/or positioning of the control mechanism 74 in the receiving portion 84.
As shown in FIG. 2A, the retaining assembly 76 may be disposed in a closed position and a portion of the control mechanism 74 may be disposed in the retaining assembly 76. Thus, the retaining assembly 76 may be used to secure the control mechanism 74 in a fixed position. FIG. 2A also illustrates the locking mechanism 70 disposed in the locked position and the support structure 34 locked in the use position.
Advantageously, the off-centered or eccentric movement of the locking member 72 may create a cam type movement, which may create a secure connection with the locking notch 68. That is, the eccentric movement of the locking member 72 may help create a solid, reliable, and stable connection between the locking member 72 and the locking notch 68. The eccentric motion of the locking member 72 may also allow the support structure 34 to move or pivot relative to the tabletop 12 when the locking member 72 is not disposed in the locking notch 68.
The rotating member 80 of the retaining assembly 76 may rotate between one or more positions. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the rotating member 80 may be rotated into an open position, and the open position may allow the control mechanism 74 to be removed from the retaining assembly 76.
FIG. 2C shows the control mechanism 74 may be removed from the retaining assembly 76, and the control mechanism 74 may be rotated away from the retaining assembly 76. The rotation of the control mechanism 74 may rotate the locking member 72, and the rotation of the locking member 72 may extract or remove the locking member 72 from the locking notch 68, which may allow the bracket 60 and support structure 34 to be moved. FIG. 2C illustrates the locking mechanism 70 in an unlocked position, and the support structure 34 disposed between the use and collapsed positions.
FIG. 2D illustrates the support structure 34 in the collapsed position and the locking mechanism 70 in the unlocked position. As shown in the accompanying figures, the retaining assembly 76 may be sized and configured to receive the control mechanism 74. The gripping portion 86 and/or the rotating member 80 may be sized and configured to facilitate receiving the control mechanism 74 in the receiving portion 84 of the retaining assembly 76. In an exemplary embodiment, the gripping portion 86 and/or the rotating member 80 may be sized and configured to allow the control mechanism 74 to be inserted into the retaining assembly 76 without the user manipulating the retaining assembly 76. For instance, the rotating member 80 may rotate in a first direction to allow the control mechanism 74 to be inserted into the retaining assembly 76. The rotating member 80 may then rotate in a second direction to hold the control mechanism 74 within the receiving portion 84 of the retaining assembly 76. The biasing member 82 may help hold the control mechanism 74 within the receiving portion 84 of the retaining assembly 76.
As shown in FIG. 2E, the control mechanism 74 may be disposed in the retaining assembly 76 and the locking mechanism 70 may be disposed in a fixed position. The support structure 34 may be disposed in a collapsed position with the leg 40 abutting or disposed at least proximate the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12.
FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate exemplary positioning of the support structure 34 and the locking member 72 of the locking mechanism 70. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the locking mechanism 70 may lock the support structure 34 in a use position. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking member 72 may rotate about a rotating member 90, such as a pin. As discussed above, the axis of rotation of the locking member 72 may not be aligned with a center axis of the locking member 72, which may create a cam type movement of the locking member 72. FIG. 3A shows the locking member 72 may be disposed in the locking notch 68 when the support structure 34 is disposed in the use position, and this may lock the support structure 34 in the use position.
As shown in FIG. 3B, the locking mechanism 70 may be disposed in an unlocked position. For example, the locking member 72 may rotate about the rotating member 90, and the locking member 72 may be removed or extracted from the locking notch 68. The support structure 34 may be movable between the use and collapsed positions when the locking mechanism 70 is disposed in the unlocked position.
FIG. 3C illustrates an exemplary embodiment with the support structure 34 disposed in collapsed position and the locking mechanism 70 in a locked position. If desired, the support structure 34 may be secured in the collapsed position. After reviewing this disclosure, one skilled in the art will appreciate the locking mechanism 70 may be disposed in other suitable positions and the locking mechanism 70 may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements.
For convenience and readability, the locking mechanism 70 is described in connection with the first support structure 34 and the leg 40. After reviewing this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the locking mechanism 70 may be used in connection with the first and/or second support structures 34, 36, and/or the first and/or second legs 38, 40. Advantageously, the locking mechanism 70 may simultaneously lock and/or unlock the first and second legs 38, 40 and/or the first and/or second support structures 34, 36. The locking mechanism 70 may also be used in connection with a single leg 38, 40 and/or single support structure 34, 36. After reviewing this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the table 10, the support structures 34, 36, the frame 44, the locking mechanism 70, and the retaining assembly 76, along with any associated parts and components, may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10.
In operation of an exemplary embodiment, the support structure, such as the support structure 34, may be disposed in a collapsed configuration and the locking mechanism 70 may be disposed in a locked configuration. A user may unlock the locking mechanism 70 by releasing the control mechanism 74 from the retaining assembly 76 and rotating the control mechanism 74 so that the locking member 72 is moved into an unlocked position. The support structure 34 may be moved from the collapsed position to the use position, and the locking mechanism 70 may be locked to secure the support structure 34 in the use position. For example, the control mechanism 74 may be rotated so that the locking member 72 is disposed in the locking notch 68, and the control mechanism 74 may be secured in a fixed position by the retaining assembly 76.
In order to move the support structure 34 from the use position to the collapsed position, the locking mechanism 70 may be unlocked by removing the control mechanism 74 from the retaining assembly 76 and rotating the control mechanism 74 away from the retaining assembly 76. The movement of the control mechanism 74 may rotate the locking member 72 and remove or extract the locking member 72 from the locking notch 68. When the locking member 72 is removed from the locking notch 68, the support structure 34 may be moved from the use position to the collapsed position. The locking mechanism 70 may then be held in a fixed position by engaging the control mechanism 74 with the retaining assembly 76.
One of ordinary skill in the art may appreciate after reviewing this disclosure that the table 10 and various components, such as the tabletop 12, the support structures 34, 36, the frame 44, the bracket 60, the plate 62, the locking notch 68, the locking mechanism 70, the retaining assembly 76, and the like may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10.
Although this invention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of this invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claims which follow.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A table comprising:

a tabletop;

a support structure sized and configured to support the tabletop above a surface, the support structure movable between a use position and a collapsed position relative to the tabletop;

a bracket rotatably connecting the support structure to the tabletop, the bracket including a locking notch; and

a locking mechanism sized and configured to lock the support structure in a fixed position relative to the tabletop, the locking mechanism comprising:

a locking member eccentrically rotatable relative to a lower portion of the tabletop, the locking member rotatable between a locked position in which the locking member engages the locking notch when the support structure is in the use position and an unlocked position in which the locking member is spaced part from the locking notch when the support structure is in the use position;

a control mechanism connected to the locking member, the control mechanism facilitating movement of the locking member between the locked and unlocked positions; and

a retaining assembly connected to the tabletop, the retaining assembly sized and configured to retain the control mechanism in a fixed position.

2. The table of claim 1, further comprising a plate connected to the tabletop, the bracket rotatably connected to the plate, the locking member rotatably connected to the plate.

3. The table of claim 2, further comprising a projection rotatably connecting the locking member to the plate, an axis of rotation of the projection not aligned with a central axis of the locking member to provide eccentric rotation of the locking member relative to the plate.

4. The table of claim 1, further comprising a frame connected to the tabletop, the support structure rotatably connected to the frame, the locking member rotatably connected to the frame.

5. The table of claim 1, wherein the retaining assembly includes a base connected to the lower portion of the tabletop; and

wherein the control mechanism of the locking mechanism is disposed in a receiving portion of the retaining assembly to lock the locking mechanism in the locked position.

6. The table of claim 1, wherein the retaining assembly includes a biasing member that is sized and configured to bias the retaining assembly into a closed position.

7. The table of claim 1, wherein when the locking mechanism is in the locked position and the support structure is in the use position, the locking mechanism locks the support structure in the use position;

wherein when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked position, the support structure is movable between the use and collapsed positions; and

wherein when the support structure is in the collapsed position, the locking mechanism is disposed in the locked position.

8. The table of claim 1, where when the locking mechanism is in the locked position and the support structure is in the use position, the locking mechanism is unlocked by eccentric rotation of the locking member.

9. The table of claim 1, wherein the locking member engages the locking notch with a cam motion as the locking mechanism is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position with the support structure disposed in the use position.

10. The table of claim 1, wherein the locking member is connected to a first portion of a frame on a first side of the tabletop and a second portion of the frame on a second side of the tabletop; and

wherein the support structure includes a first leg rotatably connected to the first side of the tabletop and a second leg rotatably connected to the second side of the tabletop.

11. A locking mechanism for a support structure for a table, the support structure sized and configured to support a tabletop above a surface, the support structure movable between a use position and a collapsed position relative to the tabletop, the locking mechanism comprising:

a plate sized and configured to be connected to a tabletop;

a strut rotatably connected to the plate, the strut movable between a first position in which a support structure is disposed in a use position and a second position in which the support structure is disposed in a collapsed position;

a locking notch disposed in the strut; and

a locking member eccentrically connected to the plate with an axis of rotation of the locking member offset from a central axis of the locking member, the locking member movable between a locked position in which the locking member engages the locking notch and an unlocked position in which the locking member is spaced apart from the locking notch.

12. The locking mechanism of claim 11, wherein the strut is connected to a support structure.

13. The locking mechanism of claim 11, wherein the strut is part of a support structure.

14. The locking mechanism of claim 11, further comprising:

a retaining assembly sized and configured to be connected to a tabletop, the retaining assembly sized and configured to retain the control mechanism of the locking member in a fixed position.

15. A method of locking a support structure of a table in a fixed position, the table including a tabletop and a support structure movable between a use position and a collapsed position relative to the tabletop, the table including a locking member eccentrically rotatable relative to a lower portion of the tabletop, the locking member eccentrically rotatable between a locked position in which the locking member engages a locking notch and an unlocked position in which the locking member is spaced apart from the locking notch, the method comprising:

moving the support structure of the table from the collapsed position to the use position; and

rotating the eccentrically rotatable locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position to fix the support structure in the use position.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein rotating the eccentrically rotatable locking mechanism allows the locking member to be disposed in the locking notch and spaced apart from the locking notch without a user moving the support structure.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising disposing the locking member in the fixed position by positioning a control mechanism of the locking member in a retaining assembly.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising:

unlocking the support structure from the locked position by moving the control mechanism away from the retaining assembly;

rotating the control mechanism to move the locking member from the locked position to the unlocked position; and

moving the support structure from the use position to the collapsed position.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

rotating the control mechanism towards the retaining assembly; and

securing the locking member in the fixed position by disposing the control mechanism of the locking member in the retaining assembly.

20. The method of claim 15, further comprising:

rotating the eccentrically rotatable locking member about a projection connected to a plate, an axis of rotation of the locking member offset from a central axis of the locking member; and

rotating the support structure about a pivot point connected to the plate.