Folding Patents (Class 108/115)
  • Patent number: 5363773
    Abstract: A novel shelf configuration comprises a plurality of juxtaposed shelf units. Each shelf unit has a straight or arc configuration. The shelf unit has a guiding track thereof facilitating a easy extension of the shelf unit to constitute a shelf. Besides, a T slot is disposed at the front end of shelf unit and a positioning tab is disposed at the rear end of the shelf unit. By engaging of a T slot and a positioning tab of an adjacent shelf unit, two adjacent shelf units can be firmly engaged. While the shelf is not in use, the positioning tab can be released from the T slot by a retaining tab which release the positioning tab. By this arrangement, a combined shelf unit can be released one by one providing a convenient utilization and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1994
    Inventor: Lai-Yeh Chuang
  • Patent number: 5354027
    Abstract: A mechanism for attaching a tabletop to at least one vertical support that permits movement of the tabletop with respect to the vertical support consisting of a top plate and a bottom plate, the top plate attachable to the tabletop and the bottom plate being attachable to the vertical support. The two plates are connected by a hinge mechanism that allows movement of the top from a horizontal to a vertical position and also allows the top to be removed from the vertical support for storage. The mechanism has easily operated, releasable locking means for holding the top plate to the bottom plate when the tabletop is in a horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Falcon Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Lewis D. Cox
  • Patent number: 5337657
    Abstract: A folding table system is designed primarily for use with computers and in computer training. It includes tables that are readily folded for storage and unfolded for use. The tables include a variety of optional wire storage capabilities and are so designed that they may be interconnected with one another and with bridging elements and storage devices. Accordingly, a customized arrangement may be readily assembled from a selection of standardized components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Assignee: Howe Furniture Corporation
    Inventor: Niels Diffrient
  • Patent number: 5325794
    Abstract: A display table used in exhibition sights, etc. including a table top and four foldable legs attached to the table top. The upper ends of the legs can slide along the side edges of the table and between the center and the corners of the table top. By sliding the legs and thus changing the angles between the legs and table top, the height of the table is changed. At a desired height, the legs are secured to the table top via bolts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Assignee: Daiki Shoji Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kenro Hontani
  • Patent number: 5325793
    Abstract: A two section folding table is disclosed which folds in the middle. A leg arrangement is hingedly attached to the underside of each section. The legs have two parts pivotally attached together with one end of a first part hingedly attached to the underside of the table and the first part folding flat against the underside of the table when the table is folded. A second part of the leg is pivotally attached to the first part and is folded against the top side of the table when the table is folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Assignees: Teston Investement Pty. Lt., Coralex Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Donald A. Martin
  • Patent number: 5316374
    Abstract: A first and second side plate are hingedly mounted together, with the first side plate including first and second end plates hingedly mounted to the first side plate, to each include at least one end plate slot to receive lug portions of the second side plate. The apparatus is arranged for interfolding relative to the plate structure for securement to a portable container to permit ease of transport and storage of the organization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Inventor: Raymond W. Fidler
  • Patent number: 5315935
    Abstract: A table having three major components, top, shelf and base, all constructed of light-weight wood or other light-weight materials and constructed so that the table is easily and quickly assembled and disassembled without the need for tools. All three parts simply fit together and have a handle or a hand-hole for carrying. Such a table provides art and drafting students an economical and light-weight drafting table which can be easily carried and set up. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the folding portable drafting table includes a folding, three panel base, a shelf adapted to be received between the panels of the base, and a removable top adapted to be placed over the base and having depending rails which form grooves therebetween adapted to receive the upper ends of the side panels of the base. The table is easily disassembled by lifting the top off the base, pulling the shelf out, and folding the side panels against the center panel of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Inventor: Gilbert L. Weisenfels
  • Patent number: 5255612
    Abstract: A securement device for releasable attachment of a lapboard to a user's leg includes a table member and a pair of in-folding leg members, one each of which is attached for hinged movement relative to a corresponding side edge portion of the table member. Elastic webbing interconnects the free end portion of each leg member to a central portion on the underside of the table member. The securement device is centered on a user's leg with the leg members bracing the table member to prevent displacement thereof as a result of ordinary unbalanced imposed forces. When removed from a user's leg, the securement device folds to a compact storage position flush with the table member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Inventor: Rolf Anderson
  • Patent number: 5224531
    Abstract: A portable apparatus for storing tools in an organized fashion and which also converts to a combination saw table, router table and workbench. The apparatus can be readily maneuvered, loaded into a truck bed and stored when folded. It also provides a rigid work surface with easy tool access when in the set-up position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Inventor: Erich Blohm
  • Patent number: 5205223
    Abstract: A folding table which comprises a table top; two pedestal members; an elongated cross brace member rotatably connected to both of the pedestal members; and hinge assemblies for pivotably connecting the table top to the pedestal members, each of which comprises a radially extending arm section and a leg section which are rotatable a substantial angle with respect to the cross brace member to support the table top in a horizontal position and maintain the folding table in an upright and unfolded conformation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas C. Ball, Donald R. Ritter, Johnny C. Fraga
  • Patent number: 5203266
    Abstract: A foldable table assembly has a base frame formed by transverse lower base pieces, longitudinally opposing pairs of spaced-apart upright pieces having pivot mounts on their upper ends, longitudinal stretchers extending between the upright pieces, and end sections between the upright pieces defining a centerline of the assembly and having leaf stops on their upper ends, for independently holding respective table leaves mounted by pivot pins to the pivot mounts on each transverse side of the centerline. The tables leaves have a total span greater than the width of the upright pieces, and fold vertically for storage within the width of the upright pieces. A longitudinal upper shelf is provided on one transverse side supported by upright posts at the centerline above the corresponding table leaf, and is foldable to a vertical storage position. Round banquet table leaves can be interchangeably mounted in place of rectangular buffer table leaves by removing the pivot pins from the pivot mounts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Co.
    Inventor: Kenneth V. Stevens
  • Patent number: 5159883
    Abstract: A tripod table having a generally equilateral triangular table top to which are attached three table top support legs, each to a different side of the table top. Each table top support leg is constructed of three triangular sections. These triangular sections may be folded along preformed fold lines to form an assembled table top support leg. The folded triangular sections may then be secured in the folded support position by appropriate fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Inventor: Allen T. Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 5154127
    Abstract: A folding table comprising a rod, upper and lower rod braces attached to the ends of the rod and extending at substantially right angles to the rod, a spindle; upper and lower spindle braces attached to the ends of the spindle and extending at substantially right angles to the spindle; the rod extended through the spindle and being rotatable relative to the spindle between an open position wherein the rod braces extend substantially perpendicular with the spindle braces, and a folded position wherein the rod braces are in substantially the same plane as the spindle braces; and a table top hingedly connected to one of the upper braces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Inventor: Irving W. Booth
  • Patent number: 5119741
    Abstract: A collapsible table is comprised of a first table top pivotally mounted on a first support and a second table top pivotally mounted on a second support. Structural members are provided for interconnecting the first and second supports. Those structural members are located to enable the first and second table tops to be pivoted from substantially horizontal to substantially vertical positions. A mechanism, carried by either the first and second supports or the interconnecting members, is provided for enabling the distance between the first and second table tops to be varied. In this manner, the table can be folded thereby greatly reducing the area required by the table while preserving the models secured to the top surface thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventor: Edward L. Pencoske
  • Patent number: 5078056
    Abstract: A folding table construction provides a "Z"-shaped table for use and a minimum folded shape for storing. A table top and base member are connected by a diagonal support. The table top and base member are pivotable inwardly against each side of the diagonal support for folding, and pivotable outwardly to extend from each end of the diagonal support to be ready for use. A holding and locking device is used to lock the table top and base member in their extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Inventor: Stephanie S. McCauley
  • Patent number: 5069142
    Abstract: A collapsible table comprising a table top, a base member and a number of supporting legs which at one end are pivotally connected to the table top and at its other end are pivotally connected to the base member. The base member is a box-like member which is arranged to be placed in a corresponding opening in the floor on the place of use of the table. The base member comprises transversely extending shafts with which respective lower ends of the legs are connected through lateral parts. In connection with the shafts there are preferably provided supporting members which are arranged to support a plate-shaped floor element for covering of the floor opening, so that the floor element in the collapsed position of the table is located between the legs and the supporting members, and in the erected position of the table is raised to a level flush with the floor surface around the floor opening by means of the supporting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Inventor: Vigbj.phi.rn Matre
  • Patent number: 5069144
    Abstract: Folding furniture to be used as a table, pedestal, supporting structure or the like which may be easily collapsed into a low-volume configuration for portability and storage. The furniture generally consists of four panels which function as top, bottom and sides, hinged together to form a rectangular structure. Adjoining panels at two diagonally opposed corners of the rectangular structure contain axially aligned bores in a tongue-and-groove assembly, receiving pins to secure the adjoining panels; this assembly allows the adjoining panels to swing obtusely. Panels meeting at the other two diagonally opposed corners of the rectangular structure are attached with hinges, allowing the panels to swing acutely. The side panels contain variously shaped support members which are hinged to said side panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Williford
  • Patent number: 5052308
    Abstract: A foldable work table having two pairs of legs, each pair being pivotal intermediate the ends thereof to move between a support position in a generally X-shape and a storage position where both legs of a pair are substantially parallel. The pairs of legs are longitudinally spaced apart. A first bracing member extends between each of one leg of a pair and a second bracing member extends between each of the other legs of a pair. A pair of elongated table members are hinged together along their length, each of the table members also being hinged to one of the bracing members, whereby the table members may pivot between a horizontal support position with the leg pairs in a support position and a storage position where the table members are in a generally vertical position and each leg pair is in a stowage position substantially parallel to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Inventor: James A. Brown
  • Patent number: 5020799
    Abstract: A folding billiard table is provided with a pair of supports having legs and wheels thereon respectively for stability and easy handling purposes when the table is in correspondingly normal unfolded and folded configuration. A table formed of two symmetrical parts incorporating a center assembly thereunder to facilitate folding operation through a pair of gear racks. The center assembly is pivotally fixed to the underside of the two parts respectively at one end while the other end portion is further engaged with a pair of gears held in a fixed configuration in relation to said center assembly. A plurality of linking and reinforcing bars are provided to make the table a rigid assembly, and facilitate, the changing from normal unfolded to folded configuration or in reverse which is also effected by the operation of a spring, a tension block, and a locking mechanism disposed thereunder. Moreover, the space occupied by the table when in the folded configuration is obviously minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Inventor: Yong-Hong Chang
  • Patent number: 4998484
    Abstract: An improved and highly versatile wall mounted folding table with mounting brackets of various configurations, to allow the table to be mounted directly to planar wall surfaces and exposed wall support studs. By varying the vertical distance between the upper and lower mounting brackets, a forward sloping table surface is formed for use in drafting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Assignee: Niche Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles R. Groetzinger
  • Patent number: 4997151
    Abstract: A foldable support for a table includes three or more pairs of leg members coupled together by three or more frame plates. One end of each pair of leg members is coupled by a bending member. A sleeve which is fixed to each end of the frame plates is provided between the bending member and the leg member. The sleeve is rotatable relative to the tube so that the frame plates are foldable relative to the leg members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventor: White Pai
  • Patent number: 4951781
    Abstract: Scaffolding structure includes first and second frame members with adjacent connected ends and remote free ends. The connected ends are hingedly connected for relative rotation of the frame members about a hinge axis between a closed position in which the frame members overlap each other and an open position in which the frame members are continuations of each other. A first leg member is mounted on the first frame member adjacent its connected end, a second leg member is mounted on the first frame member adjacent its free end, and a third leg member is mounted on the second frame member adjacent its free end. The leg members are positioned to extend in the same direction from the frame members when the frame members are in the open position and are movable between retracted positions in which they are generally parallel to the frame members and extended positions in which they are generally perpendicular to the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 28, 1990
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Bliss
  • Patent number: 4934280
    Abstract: A foldable sink table for use in open fields is disclosed. The device comprises an upper cover; a hanging rod and a rubber string installed within the said upper cover for hanging cooking aids; small shelves installed also within the said upper cover for mounting small articles such as small condiment bottles; a cooking table composed of a frame and a plate; a sink basin installed adjacently to the said cooking table; a grill installed under the cooking table and secured to legs, for mounting and drying dishes and bowls; a reinforcing member connected to legs; a range table disposed beside the cooking table; a multi-purpose shelf installed under the range table hinges and links for a pivotal connection between the upper cover and the cooking table; hinges and links for a pivotal connection between the cooking table and the legs; depending rods pivotally secured to the said grill; and depending rods pivotally secured to the range table and to the multi-purpose shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1990
    Assignee: Fine Industrial Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Sok- Kyu Bae
  • Patent number: 4926758
    Abstract: A foldable playtray is provided having a table top supported by a pair of legs hinged to the table top in one embodiment in such a way that both surfaces fo the table may be used. One surface of the table is provided with a Lego-type play surface so a child playing with Lego-type toys can detachably secure them to the table. The other surface of the table is flat, for use for games, arts and crafts. The legs can be rotated so they support the table with either its Lego-type play surface or its flat surface on top. In addition, the legs are provided with a Lego-type play surface and can be rotated to be coplanar with the table to provide an extended Lego-type play surface. The legs are also equipped with covered storage compartments for small objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1990
    Assignee: Carol E. H. Lilly
    Inventors: Carol E. H. Lilly, Loyd C. Moore, Mark E. Eike, Nicholas E. Barker
  • Patent number: 4911085
    Abstract: A collapsible table is comprised of a first table top pivotally mounted on a first support and a second table top pivotally mounted on a second support. Structural members are provided for interconnecting the first and second supports. Those structural members are located to enable the first and second table tops to be pivoted from substantially horizontal to substantially vertical positions. A mechanism, carried by either the first and second supports or the interconnecting members, is provided for enabling the distance between the first and second table tops to be varied. In this manner, the table can be folded thereby greatly reducing the area required by the table while preserving the models secured to the top surface thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1990
    Inventor: Edward L. Pencoske
  • Patent number: 4860667
    Abstract: An assemblable and disassemblable table formed by a die-cut rectangular sheet of corrugated paper board having pieces removed from its corners and central side areas to leave four pairs of oppositely projecting members, each of which pairs is bisected by first creases for inward folding and to define the table top with further 45 degree angle creasing extending outwardly from the intersections of the first creases. Each member is slotted at its extremity so that, when folded inwardly its slotting registers with the slotting of an adjacent most proximate member, one side of which folds into abutment with it to constitute a table leg when secured by a further slotted rectangular element bent at a 90 degree angle along a bisecting crease line and inserted with its slotting interlocking with the registering slotting of abutting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Assignee: Sunclipse, Inc.
    Inventors: Alfonso Cardenas, Juan de la Cruz
  • Patent number: 4852835
    Abstract: A portable table comprises a ring member mounted, at a perimetrical portion thereof, on a pointed rigid rod which radially extends with respect to the ring, the ring supporting on a diametrical axis perpendicular to the rod a disc member which can be restrained in a horizontal position for providing a supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1989
    Inventor: Paolo Ciulli
  • Patent number: 4841882
    Abstract: A foldable article of furniture which can be formed in its entirety from a single, unitary sheet of material without the use of supplemental securement members or fasteners such as staples or glue. The furniture article has three or more legs for stability and support. Additionally, each of the legs is interlocked with adjoining legs and is also integral with a top portion of the furniture along a common peripheral edge. The flat sheet or blank may be provided with stress relief openings and with prescored fold lines to facilitate assembly of the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Inventor: Ernest W. Ehrman
  • Patent number: 4815395
    Abstract: A tilt-top table is described having features that facilitate tilting a top frame between an upright storage and transport condition and a horizontal operative condition. The top frame is connected to a primary support platform and a secondary support brace by a linkage arrangement that facilitates independent pivotal motion of the secondary support brace and the tilt-top frame between upright storage and transport conditions and substantially horizontal, operative conditions. The secondary support brace will pivot from a location above and within the width dimension of the primary support platform to an outboard position, upright to receive and partially support the tilt-top frame when pivoted to the horizontal orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Assignee: Wood's Powr-Grip Co.
    Inventor: Larry Trueg
  • Patent number: 4809619
    Abstract: A folding table (101) has a structure consisting of a plurality of mutually-articulated panels (104, 108, 109) which can be unfolded in an arc of a circle about an axis (105) corresponding to the central vertical axis of the table, from a folded configuration in which the structure is flattened in a meridian plane with respect to the above axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1989
    Assignee: Pro-Cord S.r.l.
    Inventor: Giancarlo Piretti
  • Patent number: 4762321
    Abstract: A folding tennis table having a pair of planar surfaces, each being one half of the table playing surface. The halves are hingedly connected at adjacent edges by support structure. The support structure is comprised of four brackets, two brackets being placed on the lower surface of each table half. A brace is retained between a pair of brackets, one bracket being on each surface. An extension bar is pivotably attached to each brace and a leg frame. The leg frame is hollow and has a leg telescopically extending therethrough. The leg is provided with a swivel bar so as to be pivotably attached to allow the table to be folded in one step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1988
    Inventor: Yong-Hong Chang
  • Patent number: 4700731
    Abstract: A foldable shade structure is presented. The structure is disposed around a rectangular center to which are coupled U-cross section inner and outer bases. Each of the four outer ends is hingedly coupled to a leg which comprises a leg base coupled to the outer base and at least one leg segment is smaller than the leg segment or leg base beneath it in the extended mode and fits into it in the folded mold. The leg then rotates 270.degree. to fit into the outer base which rotates 180.degree. to fit into the inner base and each of the four inner bases is folded together forming a rectangular center portion into which the shade can be folded and retained. A cord can then hold the composite together and can be coupled to a handle for carrying purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1987
    Inventor: Michael K. Smith
  • Patent number: 4648652
    Abstract: A folding table includes a table top and two pairs of legs with each pair located adjacent a respective end of the top and pivotally connected thereto. Seats at each side of the table are supported on transverse bars carried by the pairs of legs. The seats have tracks extending longitudinally along the bottom of the seats. Slide members are mounted in the tracks and each pivotally connects a respective end of a transverse bar to its respective track. There are means for selectively maintaining each pair of legs in a standing position when the table is unfolded. In a preferred embodiment, the maintaining means include two brace members each hinged at one end thereof to a respective one of the transverse bars. The other end of each brace member is detachably connected to the underside of the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1987
    Inventor: Gerald B. Van Kuren
  • Patent number: 4646657
    Abstract: A collapsible table comprises table leaf and leg elements, the table leaf elements being either hinged to one another or to table leg elements. This non-detachable connection of the elements permits the table to collapse in an accordian-like manner into a small space, and to be loaded and transported on a chassis. The assembled table can be prevented from collapsing by a displaceable retaining bolt located at the abutting joints of two table leaf elements. By hinging the elements, tables with a random table surface size can be obtained, while being assembled, disassembled and stored in a simple manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1987
    Inventor: Hansrudolf Zollinger
  • Patent number: 4579066
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a knock-down table formed by a pair of frames each constructed from a plurality of pivotally interconnected rods with each frame being foldable from a collapsed inoperative condition to an erected operative condition in generally spaced upstanding adjacent relationship to each other, the frames being self-locking and having upper pairs of corners at which rings are pivotally connected to selected ones of the rods, a pair of rails spanning the frames and including male connectors for insertion in innermost adjacent ones of the rings to thereby connect the frames and lend stability thereto, at least one additional rail spanning outer corners of each frame for further stability, and a planar supporting sheet supported generally atop and in spanning relationship to the rails to provide a table top for supporting articles thereupon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1986
    Inventor: Theodore R. Zeigler
  • Patent number: 4533179
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable assembly whose members can be unfolded to form a seat or a table. The assembly comprises five flat members, one member being the seat or table top, and the other being the supporting members. The assembly is preferably unitary with each member being rotably connected with one another at coextensive linear edges that are flexibly connected. In the assembled position, the seat or table top is set upon an upright support member that is set on a bare surface. Another support member is angled upwards to the underside of the seat member, while yet another support member meets the angled support member at the underside of the horizontal seat, or table, member. Still another support member extends approximately horizontally at surface height to brace the other three support members connecting to the upright member by a demantable connecting means. In the disassembled, folded, position, the five members fold against one another, with two pairs of members being nested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1985
    Assignee: Franklyn M. Markus
    Inventors: James Nichols, Franklyn M. Markus
  • Patent number: 4506466
    Abstract: A portable bench which is particularly suited for use by a shooter comprises top and front and rear leg assemblies pivotally connected thereto. The leg assemblies fold inwardly to provide a pocket for carrying a seat which is releasably connected to the leg assemblies when they are folded outwardly at the point of use. The bench top is inclined and is vertically and angularly adjustable. The bench top has a lateral recess which overlies the seat for accommodating the upper body of the shooter when seated on the seat. An adjustable gun rest is provided at the front of the bench top for supporting the forearm of the shooter's gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1985
    Inventor: Stanley J. Hall
  • Patent number: 4489661
    Abstract: A foldable article such as a table has an upper surface member having two parts pivoted together at one edge to allow folding. Two sets of support means extend downwardly. They are arranged to be relatively longitudinally displaced by pivoting of the surface member's parts so that when the article is folded it is supported by one of the support means which bears transport means, e.g. rollers. Pivoting to the erected configuration transfers the support function to the other support means. One of the support means may be tubular, with the other received slidably therein. One is pivoted to the surface member adjacent the pivoted edge, while the other is connected to spaced regions of the member by pivoted struts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1984
    Inventor: Patrick W. Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 4442779
    Abstract: A pair of manually-manipulatable spring-loaded buttons are accessible outwardly of the side walls of a pair of respective vise brackets secured beneath the table of a portable foldable workbench. When the buttons are pressed laterally inwardly, respective latching mechanisms are released to enable the workbench to be raised from a lowered storage position into an erected working position, and vice-versa. The buttons facilitate a rapid movement of the workbench from one position to another, and the buttons are conveniently located on the workbench for improved ergonomics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1984
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Basten, Peter Oxley
  • Patent number: 4441757
    Abstract: A structural joint device for foldable chairs includes a combination of three tubular elements one of which has the shape of a rectangular frame forming the front legs and backboard of the chair. Another of the tubular elements has the form of a U-shaped tubular profile forming the back legs of the chair, while the third tubular element has the shape of a rectangular or quadrangular frame forming the seat frame of the chair. Lateral members of the three tubular elements are connected to one another by a pair of lateral structural joint devices. Each of the structural joint devices comprises a pair of identical rectangular prismatic pieces, one of which is partially inlaid and fixed to the corresponding interior face of the lateral member of the tubular element forming the front legs and backboard, while the other piece is placed facing the latter and is fixed on the lateral member of the tubular element forming the seat frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1984
    Inventor: Jesus Gasca Burges
  • Patent number: 4437412
    Abstract: A folding pallet (10) is disclosed which has frame members including upright posts (11,12) base members (16) connecting the front and back posts at their bottoms, top side members (14) connecting the front and back posts (11,12) at their top ends, the top cross rods (17) and bottom cross rods (18) connected to and extending between the vertical posts (11,12) at their tops and bottoms, respectively. A bottom tray (20) is pivotally mounted to one of the bottom cross rods so that it can be moved from a horizontal position covering the bottom of the pallet to a vertical position out of interference with the folding of the various frame members. The vertical posts (11,12) are rotatably mounted to the base members (16) and top side members (14) so that when the tray is lifted up, the pallet can be folded to a flat configuration by drawing a diagonally opposed front post (11) and back post (12) together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1984
    Assignee: Leer Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerrold A. Trautsch
  • Patent number: 4430947
    Abstract: A support system for shelving or the like comprising a first female element hich is attached to the side wall or other wall of a display stand and a second male element which is attached to the sides or ends of shelving provide for the display stand. The support system elements are designed so that they may be snapped together when the display stand is assembled and slid apart when the display stand is disassembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1984
    Assignee: Displayco Midwest, Inc., a division of Schiffenhaus Packaging Corporation
    Inventor: Martin C. Kvame
  • Patent number: 4415199
    Abstract: A heavy-duty picnic table folds into a compact form for shipment or storage. Two folding end frames which mount a table top and opposite side benches fold in unison when locking pins are removed from two cross braces which maintain the table securely in an erected state. Operational parts are tethered to prevent separation and loss. The table is characterized by strength and stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1983
    Assignee: Waymatic, Inc.
    Inventor: Clem B. Wright
  • Patent number: 4389946
    Abstract: A folding columnar support structure for use as a stool, snack table or other collapsible furniture device is made up of foldable articulated elements positioning a support surface or top relative to a flat base in a locked open position with the top spaced from the base or in a closed position with the support structure and base folded flatly against the top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1980
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1983
    Inventor: Sung T. Hwang
  • Patent number: 4371085
    Abstract: A display rack (20) for displaying cartons of bottles or packages is disclosed. Display rack (20) is comprised of modules (22) having a bottom support panel (34) and a back support panel (36) which are pivotably attached to allow rotatable movement between a folded configuration for packaging and shipping and an upright configuration for displaying. A header assembly (30) including a shelf (32) is provided for attaching advertising materials and providing space for sample products. Guard rails (24) are attached to the outer sides (26, 28) of outer modules (22) to direct shopping carts and people away from the stacked display of consumer products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1980
    Date of Patent: February 1, 1983
    Assignee: Cornelius Cannon, Inc.
    Inventor: Howard J. Fredrickson
  • Patent number: 4341164
    Abstract: A folding camp table comprising a collapsible lightweight frame and a compactable table surface. The frame comprises a pair of spaced apart side rails, a pair of spaced apart end rails perpendicular to the side rails, two pairs of spaced apart legs, removable cross bars retained by cross bar retainers and connecting and perpendicular to each leg in each pair of legs, locking supports having one end attached to the side rail and the opposite end attached to a leg located normal to the side rail, hinges midway on each end rail and latches midway on each side rail. The table surface comprises a flexible, easily compacted material having support members located along the length of the table surface and extending the width of the table surface. The invention folding camp table is designed so as to be lightweight and easily compacted into a unit that can be transported in a minimal amount of space yet have considerable stability and structural integrity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1982
    Assignee: Charles H. Ruble
    Inventor: Johnny L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4271766
    Abstract: A collapsible display fixture, in the nature of a shelf for displaying merchandise, the display shelf being fabricated from corrugated cardboard sheet and presenting a back wall and a pair of opposed sidewalls extending outwardly from the back wall in perpendicular relationship thereto when the display shelf is in a use condition. The sidewalls are divided into front and rear sections by a fold line whereby the sidewalls may be collapsed into overlying relationship to the back wall when the display shelf is in a storage condition. One or more shelves form a part of the display fixture, the shelves being supported between the sidewalls, in a horizontal plane, when the display fixture is in use. Each of the shelves has a forward marginal edge and a rear marginal edge and there is a wire extending between the sidewalls and through the forward marginal edge of each shelf to swingably support the same whereby each shelf may be swung from its horizontal condition of use to a vertical condition of storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1981
    Assignee: Sandy, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward A. Schmiedeler
  • Patent number: 4251044
    Abstract: A pair of side frames, formed of inverted U-shaped metal tubes and having horizontal brace members, are spaced apart and rigidly connected by crossed tubular members which pivotably engage the metal tubes of the side frame at their ends, one pair of tubular ends being detachable. An armrest pad is hingedly connected across the top of the side frames, such that the pad can be folded down and the side frames collapsed inwardly, after detachment of the crossed tubular members. One of the horizontal brace members supports a cylindrical holder for an oxygen bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1979
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1981
    Inventor: Kathy L. Olson
  • Patent number: 4232896
    Abstract: A portable and collapsible seat which can be suspended on a flexible strap from the belt of a user including a rectangular base which ultimately constitutes the seat, a pair of spaced parallel flanges extending outwardly perpendicular to the base along the long edges of the base, a leg somewhat longer than the base itself pivotally and slidably connected to the base, the leg adapted to lie against the base in the collapsed condition of the seat and extending at right angles to the base or seat when the same is in the operable condition, a V-shaped link having a flattened portion adjacent its center and being curved at its ends, the flattened portion of the link being received in a hole in the leg between the ends of the leg, the curved ends of the link being received in openings in the flanges adjacent one end of the base, a clamp being provided at this one end of the base and formed by extensions of the flanges for holding the leg in the collapsed condition of the seat, a clip pivotally connected to the leg
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1980
    Assignee: Lloyd Caldwell
    Inventor: Lloyd Caldwell
  • Patent number: 4225146
    Abstract: A device for exercising an infant while walking characterized in that connection metal fittings having open outer sides are fastened to an upper portion of right and left side rods which constitute resilient lower legs formed in a V-shape, hooking holes formed on the opposing side walls of said right and left connection metal fittings in the vertical direction maintaining a distance between the upper and lower legs, said hooking holes being communicated by a path narrower than the diameter of said hooking holes. A horizontal rod of an upper leg folded in a U-shape is inserted in said right and left connection metal fittings. Hooking rods which fit into the hooking holes are attached to the right and left side portions of said horizontal rod thereby to construct a leg member, and the thus constructed leg member is fitted to a plate ring having wheels and to a table plate on which is mounted a saddle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1978
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1980
    Assignee: Takeuchi Press Limited Company
    Inventor: Kazutsugu Takeuchi