Legs Fold Axially Parallel To Surface Edges Patents (Class 108/129)
  • Patent number: 7143702
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 7128002
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 7114453
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 7111563
    Abstract: A table includes a table top with an upper surface and a lower surface. The table top is preferably constructed from blow-molded plastic and it includes a generally hollow interior. The table top includes a downwardly extending lip one or more strengthening members that are integrally formed in the lip. The lip is desirably integrally formed in the table top as part of a unitary structure and the lip includes a generally hollow interior that is integrally formed during the blow-molding process with the generally hollow interior of the table top. Advantageously, the table top may include a plurality of depressions that are integrally formed in the table top and the strengthening members may be generally aligned with at least some of the depressions. The strengthening members include one or more of inwardly extending portions, outwardly extending portions and/or ribs that increase a thickness of the lip. The strengthening members may also be formed in a corner of the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: L. Curtis Strong
  • Patent number: 7096799
    Abstract: A table that includes a table top with a first half which is pivotally connected to a second half. The first and second halves of the table top are movable between a first position in which the halves are generally aligned and a second position in which the halves are generally placed adjacent to each other. The first and second halves of the table top are preferably constructed from blow-molded plastic and each of the halves desirably have a generally hollow interior. The first and second halves of the table top may include interlocking portions that are interconnected when the halves are in the aligned position. Desirably, the interlocking portions have generally hollow interiors that are integrally formed with the generally hollow interiors of the halves of the table top during the blow-molding process. The table top may also include one or more overlapping portions that are interconnected when the halves of the table top are in the aligned position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: L. Curtis Strong, Jacob Kearl, Thayne B. Haney, Ray Adams, Ed VanNimwegen, David C. Winter
  • Patent number: 7096800
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 7063025
    Abstract: A table may include a table top, a frame and one or more legs. The legs are preferably pivotally attached to the frame by brackets and the brackets may be rotatable with respect to the table top. The table may also include a drawer and the legs may be sized and configured to be disposed about the drawer when the legs are in a collapsed position. In addition, one or more links may be used to connect the brackets to the frame, if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Ashby, S. Curtis Nye, David C. Winter
  • Patent number: 7059255
    Abstract: A tabletop includes a tabletop member and longitudinal mid-support arrangement. The tabletop member includes a plastic made top panel and a plastic made bottom panel which is overlapped connected with the top panel in an edge to edge manner and defines a receiving cavity between the top and bottom panels. The longitudinal mid-support arrangement includes a mid-runner longitudinally received in the receiving cavity of the tabletop member at a mid-portion thereof to strengthen the tabletop member, wherein the mid-runner has two end portions for pivotally connecting two leg frames respectively, and two root portions for pivotally connecting two retaining frames respectively, such that the longitudinal mid-support arrangement is adapted for evenly distributing and supporting a downward loading force on the tabletop member to the leg frames through the mid-runner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Wok & Pan Ind., Inc.
    Inventor: Frank Tsai
  • Patent number: 7051662
    Abstract: A table includes a table top and a table frame. The table frame preferably includes one or more side rails, end rails, table legs, and support braces. The table also includes a mounting structure that is provided on the underside of the table top. At least a portion of a support assembly is connected to the mounting structure. Desirably, the mounting structure and the support assembly are disposed towards the center portion of the table, but the mounting structure and/or support assembly could be located in any desired portion of the table. Preferably, one end of the support braces is pivotally attached to the support assembly and the other end is pivotally attached to a table leg. Advantageously, the support assembly provides a “planar” support area to a portion of the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jin Shenghao, Arvin Patel
  • Patent number: 7044068
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products,inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 7036437
    Abstract: A table may include a tabletop and the tabletop is preferably constructed from blow-molded plastic. The table may also include a first leg that is movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the tabletop, and a second leg that is movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the tabletop. In addition, the table may include a first foot member that is rotatably connected to the first leg and a second foot member connected to the second end of the second leg. The first foot member may be rotated between a first position and a second position to allow the first leg and the second leg to be moved between the extended and collapsed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kwan Jun Choi, Kwang Ho Baik
  • Patent number: 6976438
    Abstract: A table includes a table top, a leg, and a corner leg mount. The corner leg mount is arranged to mount the leg adjacent to a corner of the table top for pivotable movement between folded and unfolded positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Cosco Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Leng Lou-Hao
  • Patent number: 6945178
    Abstract: A collapsible table selectively positionable between an upright position above a surface and a collapsible position for storage. The table includes a table top having an envelope defining an interior cavity that is configured with an internal periphery sufficient for receiving one or more seating members therein when the table is positioned in the collapsed position. In operation, pedestals of the table may be pivoted between an extended position such that the pedestals support the table above a surface and a retracted position such that the pedestals are introduced within the interior cavity of the table and thereby substantially rest against the underside of the table top. The disposition of the seating members within the cavity of the table, and in relation to each other, further facilitates a means for securing the pedestals of the table in a collapsed position within the interior cavity of the table during storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Lifetimeproducts, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen F. Nye, Lynn C. Strong
  • Patent number: 6931999
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 6928934
    Abstract: A foldable table includes a table top coupled to a frame, and a pedestal that is coupled to the side rails and end rails of the frame via a four bar link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventor: Edward Zheng
  • Patent number: 6920832
    Abstract: A table includes a table top, a leg, and a leg lock. The leg is arranged to rotate relative to the table top between extended and collapsed orientations. The leg lock is arranged to lock the leg in the extended and collapsed orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Cosco Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Leng Lou-Hao
  • Patent number: 6915748
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Lifetimej Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 6901867
    Abstract: A table includes a support brace that interconnects the table top and the leg. The support brace includes a first end with an outwardly extending arm with an opening and a second end with an outwardly extending arm with an opening. A first bracket is attached to the leg and it includes a flange with a rounded end and an aperture. The rounded end of the flange is disposed within the opening in the outwardly extending arm and a portion of the outwardly extending arm extends through the aperture in the flange when the support brace is connected to the first bracket. A second bracket is attached to the table top and it includes a first end with an angled portion and an aperture. A portion of the angled portion is disposed within the opening in the outwardly extending arm and a portion of the outwardly extending arm extends through the aperture in the bracket when the support brace is connected to the second bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: L. Curtis Strong, David C. Winter
  • Patent number: 6895872
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 6890032
    Abstract: A pivotal mounting mechanism and a method of mounting an axle in an axle mount. A plug is inserted in a receptacle such as the open end of a tube which has at least one J-shaped track. The axle is held in its final position by inter-engagement of the plug and tube. The mounting mechanism is easily assembled and substantially vandal resistant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventor: Michael Andrew Fewchuk
  • Patent number: 6848370
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 6832563
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 6752091
    Abstract: A folding table includes a table top and a frame. The frame includes side rails hinged together at a table folding axis so the table can be moved between a folded and an opened position. The table includes a latch to secure the table in the opened position. The table includes frame end reinforcement portions including bights extending between opposite frame side rails near the table top ends. The table includes a handle that is movable between a stowed and a carrying position, the handle being pivotable about a portion of a frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: Cosco Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. Glover, Nathan W. Heisey
  • Publication number: 20030233967
    Abstract: A foldable table has a plastics table plate, a reinforced frame engaging with the plastics table plate, and a pair of leg frames. The reinforced frame has a pair of elongated plates and a pair of support rods disposed between the elongated plates. Each of the leg frames is connected to the corresponding support rod. An inner interior of the plastics table plate receives the elongated plates and the support rods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventor: Wen-Shen Lin
  • Publication number: 20030233968
    Abstract: A table desirably includes a table top that is constructed from blow-molded plastic. A frame is mounted to the table top by one or more first frame mounting portions. The frame mounting portions are preferably integrally formed in the table top as part of a unitary, one-piece construction. Each of the frame mounting portions may include a recess that is sized and configured to connect the frame to the table top. Desirably, the frame is connected to the table top by a snap, friction or interference fit, and without the use of mechanical fasteners such as bolts or screws.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventors: L. Curtis Strong, Ray Adams, David C. Winter
  • Patent number: 6666152
    Abstract: A foldable banquet table includes a tabletop and a pair of table supporting frames mounted thereunder. The tabletop includes a top panel, a bottom panel overlappedly mounted to the top panel and defined a receiving cavity between the top and bottom panels, and a reinforcing frame which is received in the receiving cavity including a pair of reinforcing arms longitudinally positioned at two side edge portions of the receiving cavity respectively and at least two transverse supports spacedly connected between the two reinforcing arms. The table supporting frames are foldably mounted to the reinforcing frame at the bottom panel and adapted to fold in a folded position that the table supporting frames are pivotally and inwardly folded toward the bottom panel of the tabletop, and in the unfolded position, the table supporting frames are pivotally and outwardly folded to perpendicular to the tabletop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Frank Tsai
  • Patent number: 6655301
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Publication number: 20030213416
    Abstract: A table includes a support brace that interconnects the table top and the leg. The support brace includes a first end with an outwardly extending arm with an opening and a second end with an outwardly extending arm with an opening. A first bracket is attached to the leg and it includes a flange with a rounded end and an aperture. The rounded end of the flange is disposed within the opening in the outwardly extending arm and a portion of the outwardly extending arm extends through the aperture in the flange when the support brace is connected to the first bracket. A second bracket is attached to the table top and it includes a first end with an angled portion and an aperture. A portion of the angled portion is disposed within the opening in the outwardly extending arm and a portion of the outwardly extending arm extends through the aperture in the bracket when the support brace is connected to the second bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventors: L. Curtis Strong, David C. Winter
  • Publication number: 20030200904
    Abstract: A table includes a table top, a frame, and a pair of non-circular openings are formed in the frame. The table also includes a leg that is movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the table top. A connecting rod connects the leg to the pair of openings in the frame and the connecting rod preferably has a non-circular cross-sectional configuration. The connecting rod and the openings in the frame are sized and configured to loosely attach the leg to the table when the leg is in the collapsed position. The connecting rod and the openings, however, are sized and configured to securely attach the leg to the table when the leg is in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: L. Curtis Strong
  • Patent number: 6634304
    Abstract: A collapsible table is provided. The collapsible table includes a feet unit having two horizontal rods, a plurality of feet each having an upper end pivotally connected to one end of the horizontal rod. Each foot is provided with a position limit ring and a slidable sleeve disposes thereabout. A guide rod is provided pivotally between a horizontal rod and each slidable sleeve. Each position limit ring has a projecting member, and each slidable sleeve has an engage member for engage the projecting member. The position limit rings stop the slidable sleeve upon spreading the feet unit. The slidable sleeve moves the guide rods to force the feet swing down or up during spreading or collapsing. The engagement of the engage members and the projecting members securely retains the feet unit in the spread position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Rong-Hua Wang
  • Publication number: 20030183135
    Abstract: A foldable banquet table includes a tabletop and a pair of table supporting frames mounted thereunder. The tabletop includes a top panel, a bottom panel overlappedly mounted to the top panel and defined a receiving cavity between the top and bottom panels, and a reinforcing frame which is received in the receiving cavity including a pair of reinforcing arms longitudinally positioned at two side edge portions of the receiving cavity respectively and at least two transverse supports spacedly connected between the two reinforcing arms. The table supporting frames are foldably mounted to the reinforcing frame at the bottom panel and adapted to fold in a folded position that the table supporting frames are pivotally and inwardly folded toward the bottom panel of the tabletop, and in the unfolded position, the table supporting frames are pivotally and outwardly folded to perpendicular to the tabletop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Frank Tsai
  • Publication number: 20030177961
    Abstract: A foldable shipping shelf comprises: a loading part, two supporting parts, continuous hinges, and at least two first and second limiting parts. Each supporting part is connected to the loading part through at least one continuous hinge, and the two supporting parts are respectively connected to two opposite sides of the loading part. The first limiting parts are respectively fixed to the supporting parts at a place near to the loading part and keep the loading part in position. The second limiting parts are respectively fixed to the loading part at a place near to the supporting parts and keep the supporting parts in position. The two supporting parts rotate through the continuous hinges, and the first and second limiting parts limit a range for rotating the two supporting parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Oliver Wang
  • Publication number: 20030167980
    Abstract: The invention relates to a folding structure provided with a lock structure for the folding leg stud, which is capable of releasing the respective locked state by pressing the lock lever being in almost the same standby position even when the leg stud is deployed or folded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Applicant: Mass-Set Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Toshio Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6615743
    Abstract: A folding table includes a pair of support pedestals, a longitudinal support rail, a pair of foldable support braces, and a table top. The longitudinal support rail extends in a longitudinal direction, and has opposite rail ends disposed respectively on top of intermediate segments of end rails of the support pedestals. Each of the support braces includes a pedestal connecting portion and a rail connecting portion. The pedestal connecting portion has a first end connected pivotally to a respective one of the support pedestals, and an opposite second end. The rail connecting portion has a first end connected pivotally to the support rail, and an opposite second end connected pivotally to the second end of the pedestal connecting portion. The support rail and the end rails against a bottom surface of the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Chou-Chin Nien
  • Publication number: 20030121459
    Abstract: A table includes a leg anchor. The leg anchor is coupled to a leg of the table and is embedded in a core of a table top to couple the leg thereto. The core is positioned in an interior region of a shell of the table top. A lower shell member of the shell provides an underside of the table top and includes a rim and a stiffening rib arrangement that cooperate to provide a channel for receiving the leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Leng Lou-Hao
  • Patent number: 6568506
    Abstract: A collapsible step stool with a storage cavity for storing a wipes container is described that includes a platform having upper, side and end walls that together form a storage cavity beneath the upper wall; a removable support shelf with a first access opening positionable beneath the storage cavity; and legs pivotally attached to the platform, the legs being moveable between a closed position beneath the platform and an opened position, the legs having cut-out sections forming a second access opening aligned with the first access opening when the legs are in the closed position to provide access into the storage cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Pamela Barker Donnalley
  • Patent number: 6550404
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Publication number: 20030051642
    Abstract: A folding table includes support pedestals, side rails, and foldable support braces. Each of the support braces includes a rail connecting portion and a pedestal connecting portion. One of the pedestal connecting portion and the rail connecting portion of each of the support braces is formed with a notch, whereas the other of the pedestal connecting portion and the rail connecting portion of each of the support braces is formed with a projection extending into the notch to ensure that the support brace can be maintained at an extended state. Each of the support braces further includes a pivot fastener for connecting pivotally the pedestal connecting portion to the rail connecting portion, and a locking fastener to retain releasably the support brace at the extended state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Chuen-Jong Tseng
  • Patent number: 6530331
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 6508184
    Abstract: A lightweight folding table with legs that may be attached without a separate fixturing step is disclosed. Preferably, the table includes a table top having a working surface and a mounting surface, upon which the legs are attached. Fixturing mounts may be integrally formed with the table top by a process such as blow molding. The fixturing mounts may be configured to receive and hold independent mounting assemblies, each of which is pivotally attached to a leg. The fixturing mounts may have fixturing protrusions arranged so as to frictionally engage the mounting assemblies in such a manner that the mounting assemblies are held in place. An adhesive may then be applied to the mounting assemblies to provide a more permanent attachment, if desired. The adhesive may be allowed to set without using any external fixturing implements to hold the mounting assemblies in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Preston Winter, Curtis L. Strong
  • Patent number: 6431092
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace including a distal end and a proximal end attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces pivotally attached to a retaining assembly preferably mounted in relation to the table top. Specifically, the retaining assembly includes a cross-brace member operably disposed through openings formed in the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces, thus providing a pivotal engagement in relation to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Publication number: 20020096092
    Abstract: A portable work stand including a table, having a frame, the frame having rails, stiles, and a crosstray, the cross tray located between the rails and attached on each end to a stile, the cross tray further having a pair of leg retaining slots formed in the bottom of the cross tray; a plurality of legs, the legs having a foot section and upright sections, the upright sections located at each end of the foot, the upright sections having ends adapted for rotatable attachment to the frame, the legs, when are positioned adjacent the frame, selectively mate with the leg retaining slot, retaining the legs in a folded position; a bag joined to and extending through the frame; and a cutting board adapted for selective attachment to the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Glen William Simonson
  • Patent number: 6422157
    Abstract: A table includes a tabletop including a top surface and a bottom surface, a pair of leg units, a pair of side members coupled to the bottom surface, and a pair of cross members. Each cross member is rotatably coupled to the pair of side members. Each leg unit is coupled to one of the cross members for pivotable movement between a collapsed position and an opened position supporting the tabletop. The side members and the cross members cooperate to form a continuous frame on the bottom surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Cosco Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry L. Rumph
  • Publication number: 20020092445
    Abstract: A folding table includes a table top and a frame. The frame includes side rails hinged together at a table folding axis so the table can be moved between a folded and an opened position. The table includes a latch to secure the table in the opened position. The table includes frame end reinforcement portions including bights extending between opposite frame side rails near the table top ends. The table includes a handle that is movable between a stowed and a carrying position, the handle being pivotable about a portion of a frame member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: Richard W. Glover, Nathan W. Heisey
  • Patent number: 6386119
    Abstract: A foldable leg for furniture includes a tubular leg and a pivot assembly attached to a top of the tubular leg. The pivot assembly includes a front plate and two wing plates respectively perpendicularly extending from two opposite sides of the front plate and facing each other. Each of the wing plates has a curved top edge and an elongated slot longitudinally defined in each of the wing plates. A bracket is pivotally connected to the pivot assembly and includes two side plates parallel to each other, and each has a through hole defined in a lower portion of the side plate. A locking plate connects the two side plates and the locking plate is selectively locked by the pivot assembly. A spring has two ends respectively secured around the pivot pin and at a free end of the tongue of the pivot assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Kae Chih Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Han-Chang Lin
  • Patent number: 6371034
    Abstract: A table including a one-piece, monolithic plastic top part having a reinforcing rib structure integral therewith and a reinforcing rail arrangement. The rib structure includes a main flange which extends generally downwardly from the lower side of the top part and an edge wall which also extends downwardly and forms a periphery thereof. The edge wall is spaced-apart from and surrounds the main flange. A pair of pivotable leg assemblies are connected to the top at the lower side thereof. The reinforcing rib structure includes a plurality of cross ribs which extend between the edge wall and the main flange on the lower side of the top part. A handle member is also provided on and extends downwardly from the lower side of the top part and is integral therewith for manipulating the table during transport thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Globe Business Furniture of Tennessee, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter E. Simpson, John J. Refalo
  • Patent number: 6321664
    Abstract: The table-tennis table comprises a foldable table-tennis table comprising a support and two table tops which are provided with hinged legs and are movable between a horizontal position for play and a vertical position for storage, together with positioning wheels projecting from the side edges of the two table tops, substantially vertical guiding slideways for guiding the positioning wheels, which slideways are supported by or integrated in the support, and a lock for locking each table top in a horizontal position for play, associated with an actuator accessible to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Decathlon
    Inventors: Philippe Damour, Christophe Denizart, Christophe Graciet
  • Patent number: 6253688
    Abstract: A portable table for providing a useful and stable table surface raised above a surface such as a floor or bed and that may be easily and quickly collapsed into a more compact form for convenient transport and storage. The portable table includes a tabletop member, a support apparatus that includes a pivotally movable leg member designed for movement between a extended and stored position as well as an attachment assembly, for the purpose of coupling the support apparatus to the tabletop member, and a locking assembly designed for locking the leg member in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventor: Frank Lor
  • Patent number: 6186591
    Abstract: An institutional table is of the type in which the table tops and the seats for table users are assembled as an integral (as well as foldable and storable) structure. The table has first and second flat table tops pivotally coupled to one another at a hinge section. A center leg component is coupled to the table tops at the hinge section and supports the table at such hinge section when the table is erected ready for use. The table has a plurality of seat support frames coupled to the table tops. At least one of those seat support frames includes a self-adjustable frame coupled to the first table top by a sliding joint. In a specific embodiment, the seat support frames includes first and second endframe seat supports coupled to the first and second table tops, respectively. Two of the seat support frames, i.e., the first and second midframe seat supports are, respectively, between the center leg component and one of the endframe seat supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Palmer Snyder Furniture Co.
    Inventor: Francis L. Pajerski
  • Patent number: 6125772
    Abstract: A new platform apparatus for installation in the rear compartment of a vehicle. The inventive device includes a platform member. An outer periphery of the platform member defines a border extending therearound. The border defines an inner area and an outer area. The inner area is inside the border while the outer area is outside the border. A pair of first support legs are pivotally coupled to the lower surface of the platform member. A pair of second support legs are pivotally and slidably coupled to the lower surface of the platform member. Each of the second support legs is pivotally positionable along an arc extending around a second corner formed by a side and the rear of the platform member. Each of the second support legs is slidably positionable between a retracted position and an extended position, such that the second support legs are located in the inner area when in the retracted position and are located in the outer area when in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Neil P. Clements
  • Patent number: 4974055
    Abstract: A novel process is provided to fabricate interconnections (46c) in transistors (14) having self-aligned, planarized contacts (46s, 40g, 46d) in a novel, completely self-aligned configuration. The process of the invention permits higher packing densities, and allows feature distances to approach 0.5 .mu.m and lower.A unique combination of masks in conjunction with a multi-layer structure (28) formed on the surface of a semiconductor wafer (16), the multi-layer structure including a buried etch-stop layer therein (28b), defines the source (18), gate (22), and drain (20) elements and their geometry relative to each other and to interconnects. Polysilicon plug (40, 46) contacts through slots in the multi-structure layer permit vertical contact to be made to the various elements. Silicidation (56) of the polysilicon plugs reduces series resistance in the vertical direction and permits strapping of N.sup.+ and p.sup.+ polysilicon plugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 27, 1990
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Jacob D. Haskell