Vehicle Table System

Abstract

An embodiment of a vehicle mounted table system comprises hardware adapted to attach to a cargo area of a vehicle by way of one or more coupling mechanisms. The embodiment has a slider assembly adapted to slide relative to the hardware whereby the slider assembly can be slid at least partially out of a tailgate of the vehicle while the hardware remains attached to the vehicle. Operatively coupled to the slider assembly is one or more platforms, the platforms folding out of the vehicle through a hinge-turntable assembly. The embodiment also includes a canopy assembly having a flexible covering and one or more associated canopy supports, the one or more canopy supports adapted for attachment to the table structure when the tailgating assembly is fully deployed.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to expandable vehicle table systems.

BACKGROUND

Extendable tables are generally known in the industry that are generally adapted for use with a vehicle. Expandable tent systems are also generally known in the industry that are adapted for use with a vehicle. However, these prior art systems are adapted to be used independently of each other. For example, a collapsible tent system such as the system described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,333,594 ('594) is comprised of a frame coupled to the vehicle, and a tent surface coupled to the frame. The device described in the '594 patent is adapted to be used as a shelter for camping or other similar activities. Likewise, the expandable table system disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,249,845 ('845) is a system coupled to, and extendable from, the vehicle via a set of rails. The '845 system is adapted to be used as a picnic-table type device.

Although both references, among others, disclose various devices extendable from a vehicle, these devices and other similar systems are not readily adaptable for use outside of specific camping or picnicking uses, respectively. That is, a picnicker would be required to set up a separate canopy device if he or she implemented a prior art expandable table system. Likewise, other devices disclosed for use in a tailgating capacity, such as the device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,452,151 ('151), are similar to the picnicking devices, yet none of these devices disclose a tailgate system that extendably couples to the vehicle while also having a canopy and being removable from the vehicle after each use with minimal effort.

In today's society, tailgating at sporting events is an activity associated with sporting events that provides entertainment value unto itself, with many persons solely attending tailgating events without also including a visit to the actual game. A typical tailgating activity is to provide a smorgasbord for the tailgate attendees, often including food prepared from an adjacent grill. In many circumstances, with a large group of attendees present, it may be difficult to provide each attendee with food prior to the start of the sporting event without a large area to access the food. Additionally, since many sporting events occur whether or not there is inclement weather, oftentimes it may be raining or snowing during a tailgate session. Therefore, it is incumbent upon many tailgaters to provide a shelter for tailgate attendees.

SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the rear of a minivan showing the rear seat tracks in one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a bottom isometric view of the slider assembly, coupled hardware, and seat track coupling mechanisms of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of hardware and extended slider assembly and driver-side platform of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a rear view of a vehicle having a vehicle tailgate system loaded in a storage position in one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is an isometric top side view of a driver-side platform, slider assembly, sliding piece, and turntable in a vertical orthogonal position in one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a side isometric view of a vertical orthogonal position of a driver-side platform, slider assembly, and turntable of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a driver-side platform, coupled extension platform, slider and turntable highlighting the rotation of the driver-side and extension platforms from a generally vertical orthogonal position to a generally horizontal orthogonal position.

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of the driver-side platform, slider assembly, sliding piece, and turntable in a generally horizontal orthogonal position.

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the driver-side platform, extension platform, and legs of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10A is an isometric view of a driver-side and passenger-side platforms, the extension platform, the slider assembly, legs and a transparent canopy covering of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10B is an isometric close-up view of a leg and coupled feet with brackets and hinges according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of the driver-side and passenger-side platforms, a portion of the extension platform, the slider assembly, a plurality of legs and a transparent canopy assembly covering of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of the extension platform and a portion of the driver-side platform of one embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a hinge-bracket assembly and a portion of a coupled middle leg section and bottom leg section of one embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a portion of the extension platform, driver-side platform and a leg with coupled feet of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a pin of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a side isometric view of telescoping legs and coupled canopy section framework of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a cooling apparatus of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a vehicle and a vehicle table system having a canopy assembly and coupled sides of one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Overall, it would be highly desirable to have a table system attachable to a vehicle, the table system being capable of extending from the vehicle and incorporating a canopy system, among other features. One embodiment of the invention is comprised of a driver-side platform, a slider assembly, and a turntable assembly. One platform is substantially similar to a table. The driver-side platform may also be a left table. The slider assembly may have a sliding piece and a rail. An embodiment is adapted to couple to a vehicle with the slider assembly being adapted to fit into the rear cargo area of a vehicle such as, but not limited to, a minivan. An embodiment may couple to the vehicle through hardware and the hardware may be adapted to couple to a rear seat track through one or more attachment brackets. The attachment bracket in one embodiment may be a seat bracket decoupled from a rear minivan seat.

The hardware in one embodiment may be a framework. In such an embodiment, the slider assembly may be coupled to the framework. The slider assembly may couple to the top of the framework so that the slider assembly table may slide in and out of the vehicle.

The slider assembly is typically adapted to slide at least one platform towards the rear of the vehicle. For example, in a system where a framework is fixedly attached to the rear seat tracks, and a slider assembly is coupled to the top of the framework, the driver-side platform is typically operatively coupled to the slider assembly. The slider assembly may be capable of locking in at least one position. One slider assembly is capable of locking in a plurality of positions. In one embodiment, the slider assembly may lock in position through a pin-bore locking mechanism. A slider assembly having a pin-bore locking mechanism may have a plurality of bores along an edge of the slider assembly. The platform may also have a bore, and may be inserted through the platform bore and at least one of the slider assembly bores in order to lock the platform in a position relative to the slider assembly. The table and slider assembly may lock in position through a different method as well. When the slider assembly has a rail, the platform may be adapted to operatively couple to the rail and slide.

The platform may be slidably coupled to the slider assembly through a sliding piece. Upon the platform being slidably coupled to the slider assembly and the slider assembly locking device is disengaged, slider assembly slides relative to the hardware. The slider assembly typically slides towards the rear of the vehicle and rear bumper. The slider assembly is adapted to allow the forward edge of the platform to clear the rear of the vehicle, in one embodiment by using a sliding piece.

One embodiment uses a Joey Bed™ Jr. SUV/Mini-Van, manufactured by Joey Bed, Inc. of Cottage Grove, Oreg. as the slider assembly. In such an embodiment, the Joey Bed is coupled to a framework and at least a portion of the bed is adapted to slide out of the rear of the vehicle. The bed typically has (i) a base and (ii) rails on both the driver side and passenger side of the base. The driver side may be referred to as a lefi side and the passenger side may be referred to as a right side.

In one embodiment, the driver-side platform is coupled to a turntable assembly. The turntable assembly, in turn, is typically coupled to a sliding piece adapted to fit into a rail, such as, but not limited to, the Joey Bed™ rails. The sliding piece is adapted in one embodiment to extend beyond the rearward edge of the Bed to allow the forward edge of the platform to clear the rear edge of the vehicle.

Upon clearing the rear edge of the vehicle, the turntable assembly is typically employed. The turntable assembly typically includes a hinge, with the assembly and hinge adapted to rotate the platform about 90 degrees. The platform is typically rotated to a position such that a forward edge of the platform when the platform is in a storage position rotates to a left edge. Additionally, the rotation enables the platform to rotate from a substantially vertical orthogonal position relative to the sliding direction to a substantially horizontal orthogonal position relative to the sliding direction. The sliding direction is typically substantially parallel a longitudinal axis of the vehicle

One embodiment is also comprised of a canopy assembly. The canopy assembly may have a framework coupled to a portion of a platform. For example, the platform may be a driver-side table. The driver-side table may have at least one leg coupled to the table and the canopy framework. The canopy framework and the leg may be coupled in a manner adapted to allow the canopy to expand.

When the driver-side table is in the substantially horizontal orthogonal position, in one embodiment the leg coupled to the table may be coupled to the table at a rear table corner. The leg may be adapted to rotate from a substantially horizontal lengthwise position to a substantially vertical lengthwise position. In one embodiment, the leg is a telescoping leg adapted to expand, expanding upwardly or downwardly while in the vertical lengthwise position. In other embodiments, the leg is not a telescoping leg, and a bottom leg portion and an upper leg portion may be coupled to a middle leg portion coupled to the table. The upper and lower leg portions may be coupled through a coupling mechanism such as, but not limited to, a pin-bore coupling mechanism. In one embodiment, the middle leg portion is coupled to the driver-side table through a pivoting hinge-bracket assembly. With either the telescoping leg or the non-telescoping leg embodiment, the distal end of the bottom leg portion is adapted to be placed on the ground, providing support to the table through the bottom leg portion/middle leg portion coupling or the telescoping leg.

Likewise, the upper leg portion is coupled to the middle leg portion. Both the upper leg portion and the bottom leg portion are capable of being vertically adjustably coupled to the middle leg portion in one embodiment, to account for different required heights. In one embodiment, after the driver-side table is in the substantially horizontal orthogonal position, the coupled leg middle portion is rotated from a substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical position and the upper and lower leg portions are expanded or coupled to the middle leg portion.

The upper leg portion in one embodiment is coupled to the canopy assembly framework. The canopy assembly framework may be detachably coupled to the upper leg portion in one embodiment. For example, the canopy frame may couple to a proximal end of the leg upper portion through a pin-bore coupling mechanism. In such an embodiment, the canopy framework is typically coupled to the upper leg portion prior to the upper leg portion expanding upward in the telescoping leg embodiment, or prior to the upper leg portion being coupled to the middle leg portion in the non-telescoping leg embodiment. In one embodiment, such as, but not limited to, the telescoping leg embodiment, the canopy frame is coupled to the proximal end of the upper leg portion such that when the leg is positioned in a substantially vertical manner and telescoped to a required height, the canopy frame may pivot about the upper leg portion.

In one embodiment, the canopy assembly framework is a telescoping frame. The canopy frame is coupled to the leg in such a manner that when the canopy frame pivots about the upper leg portion, the canopy frame may telescopically expand. In one embodiment, the canopy assembly framework is coupled to a canopy assembly covering during telescopic expansion. Therefore, when the canopy assembly framework expands, the canopy assembly covering expands, thereby covering at least a portion of the table and a socializing area.

The canopy assembly framework is typically comprised of a plurality of sections. Each section of the canopy frame is typically coupled to a leg. In one embodiment, an expansion platform is coupled to the driver-side table and coupled to the expansion platform is a leg, the leg also being coupled to a canopy frame section. In one embodiment, the expansion platform is an expansion table. The expansion platform may have a first section and a second section, the first and second sections being coupled together with a hinge. The hinge allows the first and second sections to fold together such that they may be placed in a storage position on the vehicle in a manner substantially similar as the driver-side table. One embodiment's extension platform is an extension table.

In one embodiment, the extension table may couple to a slider assembly or sliding piece in a manner similar to the driver-side table. The extension table may also be coupled to a sliding mechanism such as a “Joey Bed”. During storage, the extension table may be coupled to the slider assembly such as a Joey Bed by either coupling the extension table to the driver-side table through a series of straps or through a clasping or snapping mechanism, or the extension table may couple directly to the slider assembly through a slot.

An embodiment is contemplated where the extension platform first section may also be coupled to the driver-side platform through a hinge. In such an embodiment, the extension platform unfolds from the driver-side platform via the hinge and the extension platform expands into a first and second section via the extension platform hinge. Each platform hinge is typically supported with at least one bracket.

An extension platform leg is typically coupled to a rear extension platform corner opposite the driver-side platform coupling. A canopy assembly framework section may be coupled to the extension platform leg in substantially the same manner as the canopy assembly framework is coupled to the driver-side platform leg. Upon pivoting and expanding the extension platform leg in a manner substantially similar to the driver-side platform leg, the canopy assembly framework section and covering coupled to the expansion platform leg expands in substantially the same manner as the canopy framework section coupled to the driver-side platform leg.

An embodiment may also be comprised of a passenger-side platform. The platform may be a table in one embodiment. The passenger side table in one embodiment is substantially similar to the driver-side table in operation and design, having a turntable assembly and being operatively coupled to a sliding piece incorporated to a slider assembly such as, but not limited to, a Joey Bed™. However, the passenger side platform is different from the driver-side platform in that the passenger-side platform folds towards the right side, or passenger side of the vehicle instead of the left side, or driver side of the vehicle. The passenger side table has a passenger-side leg and coupled canopy assembly framework that operates in a manner substantially similar to the driver-side table leg and coupled canopy assembly framework. The passenger-side framework may have a coupled extension table and leg in one embodiment that is substantially to the driver-side extension table and leg.

An embodiment may also have a stand-alone leg. Typically used in an embodiment that does not have a passenger-side extension table, the stand-alone leg may be a telescoping leg or non telescoping leg that is substantially similar to the legs coupled to the other corners of the canopy. The stand-alone leg may also be used in an embodiment that does not have a driver-side extension table as well. Coupled to the distal end of the standalone leg and in one embodiment in at least one other leg, is at least one foot. One embodiment is comprised of a standalone leg with four feet. Each foot is coupled to the end of the leg with a hinge and a bracket adapted to keep the foot substantially perpendicular to the leg. Each foot is adapted to provide stability to the standalone leg.

One embodiment includes an AC/DC power inverter. The power inverter is typically located proximate to the rear bumper. The power inverter is adapted to allow devices such as electric burners, grills, televisions, or radios to be plugged into the power inverter and placed either on a platform or on the slider assembly.

It is contemplated that a gas, charcoal, or other type of grill may be used in conjunction with one embodiment.

Terminology:

The terms and phrases as indicated in quotation marks (“ ”) in this section are intended to have the meaning ascribed to them in this Terminology section applied to them throughout this document, including in the claims, unless clearly indicated otherwise in context. Further, as applicable, the stated definitions are to apply, regardless of the word or phrase's case, tense or any singular or plural variations of the defined word or phrase.

The term “or” as used in this specification and the appended claims is not meant to be exclusive rather the term is inclusive meaning “either or both”.

References in the specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “a preferred embodiment”, “an alternative embodiment”, “a variation”, “one variation”, and similar phrases mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least an embodiment of the invention. The appearances of phrases like “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment”, or “in a variation” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all meant to refer to the same embodiment or variation.

The term “couple” or “coupled” as used in this specification and the appended claims refers to either an indirect or direct connection between the identified elements, components or objects. Often the manner of the coupling will be related specifically to the manner in which the two coupled elements interact.

The term “integrate” or “integrated” as used in this specification and the appended claims refers to a blending, uniting, or incorporation of the identified elements, components or objects into a unified whole.

Directional and/or relationary terms such as, but not limited to, left, right, nadir, apex, top, bottom, vertical, horizontal, back, front and lateral are relative to each other and are dependent on the specific orientation of a applicable element or article, and are used accordingly to aid in the description of the various embodiments and are not necessarily intended to be construed as limiting.

As applicable, the terms “about” or “generally” as used herein unless otherwise indicated means a margin of +−20%. Also, as applicable, the term “substantially” as used herein unless otherwise indicated means a margin of +−10%. It is to be appreciated that not all uses of the above terms are quantifiable such that the referenced ranges can be applied.

The term “composite”, “composites” or any version thereof refers to a solid material which is composed of two or more substances having different physical characteristics and in which each substance retains its identity while contributing desirable properties to the whole.

The term “tailgate”, “tailgating”, “tailgate party”, or any similar version refers to a picnic that is served from the tailgate of a vehicle, as before a sports event.

The term “telescoping” refers to two parts of a device which are coupled together lengthwise, with one part entering, sliding, or passing within another part like the cylindrical sections of a collapsible hand telescope.

The term “turntable”, or any version thereof refers to a revolvable platform or disk, such as a lazy Susan.

First Embodiment of a Table System:

As shown by FIGS. 1 through 18, an embodiment of a vehicle mounted table system is shown. One embodiment is typically comprised of hardware 10, a slider assembly 20, a driver-side platform 30, a passenger-side platform 40, a cooling apparatus 50, a power inverter 60, and a canopy assembly 70. Each embodiment has at least one platform. One embodiment may not be comprised of all of these items, and may only be comprised of a portion of these items. However, no matter how many of these items an embodiment is comprised of, the system is adapted to allow a person to easily install and set up for a tailgate party or other vehicle-picnic event. The system may also be used in non-picnic events such as, but not limited to, office functions or recreational functions that involve being outside with a vehicle. For example, an embodiment is contemplated that is adapted to be used in conjunction with camping.

In one embodiment, the system is adapted to be placed in the rear of a minivan, as best shown in FIG. 4. An embodiment is also adapted to be placed in the rear of an SUV, and one embodiment is adapted to be placed in the rear of a pick-up truck. There is one embodiment that is adapted to be placed in the trunk of a car and another embodiment that is adapted for use with an RV as well. Many times, the embodiment is adapted to couple to the cargo area of a vehicle.

In an embodiment that is adapted to fit in the rear of a minivan, in one version of the embodiment that includes the hardware 10 and the slider assembly 20, as best shown in FIG. 3, the hardware is framework may be adapted to couple to the minivan's rear seat tracks 2 through one or more attachment brackets. Hardware is meant to secure the table system within a vehicle. One embodiment may be adapted to couple to seat tracks other than the rear seat tracks as well. To couple to the seat tracks so, the hardware may include attachment brackets which are seat-track coupling mechanisms 11, as best shown in FIG. 2, or the hardware may not be comprised of a seat-track coupling mechanism, but may be comprised of the seat-track bracket which is coupled the minivan's existing rear seat. The seat-track coupling mechanism may be a bracket and may be comprised of a handle 12 adapted to release the hardware from the seat-tracks upon disengagement. Disengagement may occur by twisting the handle.

The hardware 10 may include wheels 13, as best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. The wheels are typically coupled to framework posts 14 and are adapted to allow a user to easily maneuver the system prior to installation and after removal of the system from the vehicle, by allowing the system to be rolled along the ground on the wheels. One embodiment includes a stacked vehicle coupling mechanism 11, as best shown in FIG. 2. Stacked coupling mechanisms typically include blocks 15 or other similar devices. The blocks may be adapted to enable the framework wheels to rest on the vehicle floor upon insertion of the coupling mechanism into the seat track 2. In a non-stacked framework, as best shown in FIG. 3, the wheels 13 may also rest on the ground. In both a stacked and non-stacked embodiment, the length of hardware posts 14 are typically less than 12 inches, with the posts being about 8 inches in one embodiment.

The hardware 10 may be constructed of a lightweight material such as a composite material. However, in one embodiment, the hardware is framework comprised of steel alloy. The framework may also be comprised of aluminum alloy or any other type of material that is adapted to support the system components upon storage of the components in the vehicle.

As the hardware 10 of one embodiment is adapted to fit in the back of a minivan, the width 16 of the hardware in an embodiment is wide enough to fit through the rear cargo hatch of a minivan. An embodiment is also adapted to fit into the back of a SUV such as a Toyota Highlander, into a trunk of a car, to a Recreational Vehicle (an “RV”) and onto a pick-up truck bed as well, respectively. In these or other embodiments, the hardware 10 may not be framework hardware, but the hardware may be another device such as, but not limited to, a cable-ratchet system adapted to secure the table system within the vehicle.

The length 17 of the framework is such that the framework may fit between a van's rear door or hatchback and the third row of seats. In one embodiment, the framework is long enough to fit between the hatch and the van's second row of seats or between the hatch and the first row, or front seats. The framework generally takes up the entire width and length of the area that it fits into. In one embodiment, the framework is comprised of at least one lengthwise beam 18 and one widthwise beam 19, although one embodiment's framework is comprised of two lengthwise beams and three widthwise beams, as best shown in FIG. 2.

The slider assembly 20 is operatively coupled with the hardware and is adapted to move at least a portion of the system from a first location within the vehicle to a second location at least partially outside of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the slider assembly is generally the same length and width as the hardware length 17 and width 16. However, one embodiment's slider assembly may be substantially smaller than the framework and one embodiment's storage platform may be substantially larger than the framework. At least a portion of the slider assembly is typically adapted to slide in and out of the vehicle such as an SUV, minivan, or trunk, or to slide on and off of the bed of a pick-up truck. One way that the slider assembly may be coupled to the framework is through a pair of rails 21, as best shown in FIG. 2. In one embodiment, the rails may enable a sliding piece 22 to slide in and out of a vehicle by rolling along the rails that are coupled to the framework.

One type of product adaptable for use as a slider assembly 20 is the Joey Bed Jr. SUV/Mini-Van, manufactured by Joey Bed, Inc. of Cottage Grove, Oreg. In one embodiment, the slider assembly is partially comprised of steel. However, other material types may be substituted. Additionally, there are typically sidewalls 23 on the sliding piece 22. The thickness 24 of a sidewall in one embodiment is 1 and ¼ inches. In one embodiment, the components of the vehicle tailgate system are coupled with the sidewalls to ensure that the components are not tossed around during movement of the vehicle. The sliding piece may be locked in position by a handle, such as, but not limited to, the handle locking mechanism included in the Joey Bed product. The sliding piece may lock into position using a different device such as, but not limited to, a pin and bore locking mechanism. With either locking device, or in other locking mechanisms, the sliding piece may be locked in multiple positions. Some slider assemblies, including some Joey Bed slider assemblies, do not have sidewalls.

As previously stated, an embodiment is contemplated that is not comprised of framework. In such an embodiment, the slider assembly 20 is coupled directly to the vehicle with hardware 10. The slider assembly in such an embodiment may be adapted to slide in and out of a minivan, pick-up truck bed, SUV, RV, or trunk.

As best shown in FIG. 4, one embodiment of a vehicle tailgate system is comprised of a driver-side platform 30, a passenger-side platform 40, and a cooling apparatus 50. Each platform typically has at least one flat surface. The platforms and cooling apparatus are typically coupled to the sliding piece in one embodiment. The items may be coupled to the sliding piece through a mechanism such as, but not limited to, a snapping mechanism or a latching mechanism wherein the items snap into, or are latched into, notches 25 within the sliding piece, as best shown in FIG. 4. The items may also be coupled to the sliding piece in a different manner. For example, the items may simply be strapped onto the sliding piece with straps or cables. An embodiment is contemplated that is not comprised of a framework, or is comprised of a much smaller framework than the framework shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Additionally, one embodiment may be comprised of a sliding device which has at least one rail and coupled slider that enable the platform to slide out of a vehicle, while being operatively coupled to the hardware 10.

The slider assembly 20 is typically coupled to a driver-side platform 30 through a driver-side sliding piece 22, as best shown in FIG. 5. The sliding piece is typically coupled with a slider assembly rail 21. The slider assembly is adapted to allow a portion of the sliding piece and a coupled driver-side turntable assembly 26 and platform 30 to slide beyond the rearward edge of the slider assembly 20, as best shown in FIG. 5. Additionally, the sliding piece typically places the forward edge 31 of the platform, when the platform is in the storage position as shown in FIG. 6, in a position typically outside rear end 100 of the vehicle. In one embodiment, this position is necessary in order to rotate the table from the FIG. 6 storage position to the FIG. 8 tailgate position.

One embodiment may use a slider assembly 20 and sliding piece 22 that are adapted to provide motion in one dimension. One sliding piece includes a rail. A sliding piece may also have a linear motion bearing. Other type of sliding pieces and slider assemblies may be used in embodiments as well. When a linear motion bearing is employed, slider assembly typically includes a sleeve-like outer ring and several rows of balls retained by cages. A typical embodiment's slider assembly and sliding piece features smooth motion, low friction, high rigidity, and long life. Additionally, an embodiment's slider assembly and sliding piece are economical to install, easy to maintain, and easy to replace. One embodiment's linear motion bearing does not use balls, but uses polymeric bearings housed in a hard anodized extruded aluminum rail.

In any event, in one embodiment, upon installing the slider assembly 20 and coupled hardware 10 into the minivan seat tracks 2, the hardware is typically locked into a first position by using the handle 12. The first position is best represented by FIG. 4. The slider assembly is slid into a second position, as best shown in FIG. 6. As FIG. 6 shows, the second position includes extending at least a portion of the sliding piece 22 beyond the rear edge of the slider assembly. When the slider assembly is in the second position, the turntable assembly 26 is rotated. The turntable generally rotates in a plane substantially parallel to the flat surface of the platform that the turntable is operatively coupled to.

For example, as best shown in FIG. 5, the turntable assembly 26 rotates about a plane substantially parallel to the driver-side platform flat surface 32. Rotation of the turntable from the position shown in FIG. 6 to the position shown in FIG. 8 also includes use of a sliding piece hinge assembly 33 adapted to pivot the platform from a substantially vertical orthogonal position relative to the sliding piece 22 sliding direction, as best shown in FIG. 6, to a substantially horizontal orthogonal position relative to the sliding piece sliding direction, as best shown in FIG. 8. The rotational and hinged movement of the platform is best shown in FIG. 7. In one embodiment, the turntable assembly 26 rotates the platform from a position where a lengthwise edge 34 of the platform is generally parallel to a lengthwise edge of the vehicle, as best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, to the FIG. 8 position where the lengthwise edge of the table is generally parallel to a widthwise edge of the vehicle. In one embodiment, at least one platform is stored in a vehicle not in a substantially vertical orthogonal position. An embodiment platform may be stored in a vehicle in a substantially horizontal orthogonal position.

When the driver-side platform 30 is in the substantially horizontal orthogonal position, as best shown in FIG. 8, an extension platform 80 may couple to the driver-side platform. The extension platform may couple to the driver-side platform through a pair of brackets 81, as best shown in FIG. 12. In one embodiment, the extension platform may couple to the driver-side platform with a hinge, as best shown in FIG. 9. One embodiment's driver-side and passenger-side platforms are 4 feet along a lengthwise axis, 2.5 feet along a widthwise axis, and 3 inches thick. Additionally, all platforms may be comprised of a framework in one embodiment.

The extension platform 80 is comprised of a first section 82 and a second section 83 in one embodiment. An embodiment may only be comprised of a first section, and the length of a first section only embodiment may be longer than the first section of a first and second section embodiment. When an embodiment's extension table is comprised of a first and second section, the sections are typically coupled together with a hinge, as best shown in FIG. 12. In one embodiment, at least one bracket 81 is coupled to the first and second sections in order to provide support to the hinged portion of the extension platform and help lock the extension platform in the open position as shown by FIG. 12. The bracket may be coupled to the second section through a substantially nonremovable pin. The first section may then be coupled to the bracket with a removable pin.

Besides the brackets 81, the extension platform 80 is supported by at least one leg 90, as best shown in FIG. 10A. There may be two legs coupled to the extension platform and one leg coupled to the driver-side platform in one embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 12. One extension platform leg may couple to a corner of the second section 83, as best shown in FIG. 10A. An embodiment may be comprised of a telescoping leg. FIG. 16 is the representation of 4 telescoping legs, each leg coupled to a corresponding telescoping canopy framework section 101. In one embodiment, the driver-side platform 30 has a leg coupled to a rear corner 35.

In one embodiment, the legs 90 are coupled to the platform through a hinge-bracket assembly 91, as best shown in FIG. 13. The assembly is typically adapted to pivot the legs from a substantially vertical lengthwise position to a substantially horizontal lengthwise position. FIG. 13 shows how the leg is pivoted in one embodiment. One embodiment's hinge 92 is coupled to a bracket 93, which, in turn, is coupled to a middle section 94 of a leg.

The hinge 92 in one embodiment is comprised of a pivot section 95 and an anchored section 96. Upon placement of the driver-side platform in the horizontal orthogonal position and coupling of the extension platform to the driver-side platform, when the hinge pivot section is substantially parallel with the hinge anchor section, the leg middle section 94 is typically in a substantially horizontal position. The hinge pivot section is typically coupled to the hinge anchored section through a pin-bore pivot mechanism 98 and a brace 97. The brace may be adapted to lock in both the vertical position and the horizontal position in one embodiment. A pin-bore locking mechanism, or a latching mechanism may be used. Other locking mechanisms may be employed as well.

One embodiment is comprised of a leg upper section 99, a leg middle section 94, and a leg lower section 89, as best shown in FIG. 14. The leg middle section may be coupled to the hinge-bracket assembly 91. Another leg section may be coupled to the hinge-bracket assembly in one embodiment. Also, in one embodiment, the upper and lower sections are coupled to the middle section in a telescoping manner. A telescoping embodiment may have additional leg sections as well. In the non-telescoping embodiment, the upper and lower sections are removably coupled to the middle section, as shown in FIG. 14.

In one non-telescoping leg 90 embodiment, the leg upper section 99 and leg lower section 89 are stored on the slider assembly 20 in a notch 25 adapted to substantially secure the legs during vehicle movement. The leg sections may also be stored on the slider assembly by being coupled to the driver-side platform 30, the passenger-side platform 40, or the extension platform 80 through at least one strap. Likewise, the extension table may be coupled to the slider assembly through a notch or through straps. Other mechanisms adapted to couple the legs and the extension table to the slider assembly are also contemplated, such as, but not limited to, being operatively coupled to the driver-side platform or passenger-side platform through a hinge. The middle leg section may also detachably couple to the hinge-bracket assembly 91 and may be stored on the slider assembly in substantially the same manner as the other leg sections.

In one embodiment, the leg sections are coupled together with a pin 87 inserted into a bore located in each leg section. The sections may be stored on the slider assembly 20 by coupling to a hinge-bracket assembly 91, or all the sections may be decoupled from the hinge-bracket assembly and stored in an alternative manner, such as, but not limited to, the strapping mechanism described above.

In one embodiment, as best shown in FIGS. 10A and 14, four feet are coupled to the leg lower section 89. A leg bottom section in one embodiment may also have less or more than four feet, such, but not limited to, an embodiment with two feet. Each foot is adapted to keep the leg 90 substantially stable. As a proximate end 86 of the leg in one embodiment is pivotably coupled to a canopy framework section 101, the feet are also adapted to keep the canopy assembly 70 substantially stable. In one embodiment, each foot is coupled to the distal end 85 of the bottom section with a hinge 79 and a brace 78, the brace adapted to lock in a down position, as best shown in FIG. 10A. A foot may also be adapted to lock in an up position.

In one embodiment, the foot has a first section 77 and a second section 76. Each section is generally 1 an inch in thickness. The first section is also generally the same width 75 as the leg lower section 89 and in one embodiment, the first section is 6 inches long. The second section in one embodiment is wider than the first section, the second section being about twice as wide as the first section, and integrated to the first section. The leg bottom section in one embodiment is 2 feet long, the leg middle section in one embodiment is also two feet long, and the leg upper section is 8 feet long. One embodiment may include more or less leg sections and the sections of one embodiment are of different lengths.

As best shown in FIG. 14, the leg sections are coupled together through a pin 87 inserted into a bore 69 in each leg. As best shown in FIG. 16, the legs 90 may also be telescoping legs. In either embodiment, a proximate end 86 of the leg is coupled to a proximal end 102 of a canopy framework section 101. One embodiment has arcuate canopy framework sections. Also, one embodiment does not have telescoping framework sections. A distal end 103 of the canopy framework section is rotatably coupled to a plate 104 in one embodiment. The plate and canopy framework section may be coupled with a bolted assembly. An embodiment may include a different coupling mechanism as well.

Coupled to the canopy framework section 101 is a canopy covering 110. The covering in one embodiment is a flexible sheet material, such as, but not limited to, a tarp. The covering may be coupled to the framework by inserting the framework through loops in the covering. The canopy framework may also be coupled to the covering with a hook-loop coupling mechanism or any other coupling mechanism such as, but not limited to, a series of snaps or latches.

The canopy assembly 70 in one embodiment has 4 panels 111, as best shown in FIG. 18. The panels in one embodiment are vertical canopy sides comprised of flexible sheet material. Each side is coupled to an edge of the canopy covering. One side has an opening for the rear portion of a vehicle to fit within. In one embodiment, the opening has an elastic portion 112, wherein the elastic portion is adapted to snugly fit the covering around the vehicle to create a generally water-resistant seal between the panel and the vehicle. Two panels in one embodiment do not have openings, and a panel opposite the vehicle opening side has an opening allowing a person to enter and exit the canopy assembly. The panel opening on one embodiment is a zippered opening. The top 105 of the canopy covering in one embodiment includes at least one flap 113 adapted to allow wind to enter and exit the canopy covering 110 without blowing the covering off the canopy assembly framework.

An embodiment also includes a passenger-side platform 40 and a cooling apparatus 50. The passenger-side platform operates in substantially the same manner as the driver-side platform 30. For example, the passenger-side platform is operatively coupled to a turntable assembly 26 and sliding piece 22. However, the passenger-side platform does not rotate and hinge from a storage position generally parallel the vehicle's longitudinal axis to a position proximal the driver-side edge of the vehicle, like the driver-side platform, but the passenger-side platform rotates and hinges to a position proximal the passenger-side edge of the vehicle. The passenger-side platform may also couple to an extension platform. The passenger-side extension platform is typically substantially similar to the extension platform described earlier.

As best shown in FIG. 4, the cooling apparatus 50 is typically coupled with the slider assembly 20. The cooling apparatus in one embodiment is a cooler adapted to receive ice and food items such as aluminum cans. The cooling apparatus may couple to the slider assembly 20 through at least one notch 25. In an embodiment, the cooling apparatus is coupled to the slider assembly through a strap. Other coupling mechanisms are also contemplated.

The cooling apparatus typically has wheels 51 coupled to the apparatus. The wheels are adapted to allow a user to roll the apparatus. The apparatus also typically includes legs 52, as best shown in FIG. 17. In one embodiment, the legs are adapted to pivot from a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis position to a substantially vertical longitudinal axis position. The legs may be coupled to a side of the cooling apparatus, or the legs may be coupled to the underside of the cooling apparatus. Often the cooling apparatus is decoupled from the slider assembly and placed on the ground, with the legs being adapted to pivot to a substantially vertical position in order to lift the wheels off the ground. In one embodiment, the cooling apparatus may be used as a weight for the standalone leg. The cooling apparatus legs may couple to a framework, and the framework may be comprised of aluminum. All frameworks in one embodiment are comprised of aluminum. The legs in one embodiment are 5 inches long with a rectangular cross-section have 1-inch sides.

In an embodiment that includes a power inverter 60, the power inverter typically has at least one outlet 61. The power inverter has a battery and is adapted to convert direct current (“DC”) to alternating current (“AC”). The inverter typically is comprised of a rechargeable battery. The inverter outlets are typically are adapted to supply power to different plug-in devices such as an electric heater or electric grill. The power inverter may even supply power to an electric motor adapted to automatically expand the table and canopy.

Other Embodiments and Variations:

The embodiments of the vehicle table system as illustrated in the accompanying figures and described above are merely exemplary and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention. It is to be appreciated that numerous variations to the invention have been contemplated as would be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure.

For example, as described briefly herein, it is contemplated that the system works not only with a minivan, but is adapted to couple to the bed of a pick-up truck, a trunk of a car, the rear cargo area of an SUV, or to couple to an RV. With any of these units, and in particular a Toyota Highlander SUV unit, the unit may replace the hardware 10 with a cable-ratchet system that is adapted to couple to the D-Rings located in the rear cargo area of an SUV.

Additionally, it is contemplated to have a system adapted to automatically deploy through use of an electric motor.

Claims

1) A vehicle mounted table system, the system comprising:

at least one platform having a flat surface;

hardware adapted to secure the table system within a vehicle;

at least one slider assembly operatively coupled with the hardware and the at least one platform, the at least one slider assembly adapted to move the platform from a first location within the vehicle to a second location at least partially outside of the vehicle; and

a turntable assembly operatively coupled with the at least one slider assembly and the at least one platform, the turntable assembly adapted to rotate the at least one platform in a plane generally parallel with the flat surface.

2) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, wherein the hardware further includes framework.

3) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, wherein the at least one platform is adapted to be (i) generally vertically orientated when the system is in the first location, and (ii) generally horizontally orientated when in the system is in the second location; the vehicle mounted table system further comprising one or more hinge assemblies adapted to move the at least one platform from the vertical to horizontal positions.

4) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, wherein the slider assembly includes at least one rail and at least one corresponding sliding piece, the sliding piece being coupled with the platform.

5) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1 further including one or more legs pivotally coupled with the platform.

6) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, wherein the at least one platform comprises a plurality of platforms, each having generally flat surfaces, hingeably coupled together.

7) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, further including a canopy assembly, the canopy assembly including a canopy framework assembly and a covering of a flexible sheet material, the canopy framework assembly coupling with a platform framework associated with the one or more platforms.

8) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 7, wherein the platform framework includes the one or more legs.

9) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 7, wherein the canopy framework assembly includes a plurality of telescoping tubes adapted to support the covering.

10) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 9, wherein the telescoping tubes are arcuate.

11) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 7, further comprising a plurality of panels, the panels comprised of flexible sheet material adapted to attach to the canopy assembly to form vertically disposed sides.

12) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 11, wherein the panels attached to the canopy assembly using hook and loop material.

13) A combination comprising:

a motor vehicle including a rear tailgate opening; and

a covered table assembly (i) attached to the interior of the motor vehicle, (ii) having a stowed position located substantially within the motor vehicle, and

(iii) having a fully deployed position located primarily outside of the vehicle, the covered table assembly including (a) a one or more tables, and (b) a canopy operatively coupled to the one or more tables when the covered table assembly is in the deployed position;

wherein the covered table assembly is adapted for movement from the stowed to deployed positions primarily through the rear tailgate.

14) The combination of claim 13, wherein the one or more tables comprises a left table and a right table, the left table located proximate a driver side of the vehicle and spaced from the right side table located proximate the passenger side of the vehicle providing a distance there between permitting a person to access the interior of the vehicle through the rear tailgate.

15) The combination of claim 14, wherein one of the left and right tables is elongated and a primary length of the table extends in a direction generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle.

16) The combination of claim 13, further comprising a DC/AC inverter, the power inverter located proximate the rear tailgate.

17) The combination of claim 13, wherein the canopy extends rearwardly from a forward edge at least slightly overhanging a tailgate opening of the tailgate whereby precipitation is generally inhibited breeching an interface between the tailgate opening and the canopy.

18) The combination of claim 13 wherein the combination further comprises a plurality of panels flexible, the flexible panels adapted to attach to the canopy and substantially enclose a space beneath the canopy including the one or more tables.

19) A vehicle mounted tailgating assembly, the tailgating assembly including:

a framework adapted to attach to a cargo area of a vehicle by way of one or more attachment brackets, an upper section of the framework being adapted to slide relative to a lower section of the framework whereby the upper section can be slid at least partially out of a tailgate of the vehicle while the lower section remains attached to the vehicle;

one or more folding tables and associated table structure coupled to the upper section, the tables adapted to extend outwardly of the upper section framework and an associated vehicle when the upper section has been slid partially out of the vehicle;

a canopy assembly including a flexible covering and one or more associated canopy supports, the one or more canopy supports adapted for attachment to the table structure when the tailgating assembly is fully deployed.

20) The vehicle mounted tailgating system of claim 19, wherein the one or more attachment brackets are adapted couple to the rear seat attachment brackets of the vehicle.