Legs Folded Adjacent Surface Patents (Class 108/132)
  • Patent number: 8683929
    Abstract: A table may be sized and configured to nest with another table to reduce a height of a plurality of stacked tables in a nested configuration. The table may include a table top with a receiving portion disposed at least proximate an intersection of an upper surface and a sidewall. The table top may also include a lip and a lower portion of the lip may include a contact surface that is sized and configured to contact an upper surface of an adjacent, nested table. The lower portion of the lip may also include an engaging portion that is sized and configured to be disposed in a receiving portion of an adjacent, nested table. The contact surface and the engaging portion may be directly adjacent to each other in the lower portion of the lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Wendell Peery, David C. Winter, Mitch Johnson
  • Patent number: 8677912
    Abstract: A foldable table includes a first tabletop panel, a second tabletop panel, a first peripheral edge rim, a second peripheral edge rim, and a foldable frame. The foldable frame includes a reinforcing frame which includes first through fourth elongated reinforcing member spacedly mounted along two longitudinal sides of the first receiving cavity and the second receiving cavity respectively, a first and a second leg frame pivotally mounted on the first receiving cavity and the second receiving cavity respectively, and a hinge arrangement. The hinge arrangement includes a first connecting joint, a second connecting joint, and a first and a second locker device coupled to the first connecting joint and the second connecting joint respectively, wherein the first locker device and the second locker device are arranged to operate between a locked position and an unlock position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: Ping-Cheng Tsai
  • Patent number: 8667903
    Abstract: An adjustable table assembly provides a plurality of adjustable support surfaces positionable in a selectable configuration as desired by a user. The assembly includes a medial panel having a first side and a second side. A first slot extends into the first side of the medial panel. A first side panel is coupled to the medial panel. The first side panel is slidably inserted into the first slot whereby the first side panel is selectively extendable from the medial panel. A first side pivot hinge is coupled between the medial panel and the first side panel. Thus, the first side panel is pivotable relative to the medial panel. A plurality of legs is coupled to the medial panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Kevin S. Goltry
  • Patent number: 8622007
    Abstract: A table may include a molded plastic table top with an upper surface, a lower surface and a hollow interior portion disposed between the upper surface and the lower surface. The upper surface, lower surface and hollow interior portion of the table top may be integrally formed during the molding process as part of a unitary, one-piece construction. The table may also include a side rail of a frame connected to the lower surface of the table top and a plurality of depressions disposed between the side rail and the upper surface of the table top. The plurality of depressions may be integrally formed in the lower surface of the table top during the molding process as part of the unitary, one-piece construction. The plurality of depressions may be sized and configured to support the portion of the table top disposed above the side rail of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Wendell Peery, Ju-Young Jin, Mitch Johnson
  • Patent number: 8578863
    Abstract: A table may be sized and configured to nest with another table to reduce a height of a plurality of stacked tables in a nested configuration. The table may include a table top with a receiving portion disposed at least proximate an intersection of an upper surface and a sidewall. The table top may also include a lip and a lower portion of the lip may include a contact surface that is sized and configured to contact an upper surface of an adjacent, nested table. The lower portion of the lip may also include an engaging portion that is sized and configured to be disposed in a receiving portion of an adjacent, nested table. The contact surface and the engaging portion may be directly adjacent to each other in the lower portion of the lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Wendell Peery, David C. Winter, Mitch Johnson
  • Patent number: 8578865
    Abstract: A structure constructed from plastic may include one or more reinforcing portions that are sized and configured to prevent damage to the structure. For example, the structure may be a table top constructed from blow-molded plastic and the table top may include a body with one or more corners. The corners may include an interior portion and an exterior portion, and reinforcement portions may be sized and configured to help prevent damage to the corners of the table top. In addition, one or more depressions may be at least partially disposed within the reinforcement portions, if desired. The reinforcement portions, for example, may include one or more inwardly and/or outwardly extending portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thayne B. Haney, Jacob Kearl
  • Patent number: 8561552
    Abstract: A foldable table includes a table top, two leg frames foldably coupling with a bottom side of the table top, and a torsion resistance frame including two longitudinal side frames parallelly provided along two longitudinal side portions of the table top respectively, and two lateral side reinforcing members laterally extended between the longitudinal side frames at two lateral side portions of the table top to form an anti-torsion frame for encircling with a peripheral portion of the table top. The torsion resistance frame is integrated with the bottom side of the table top, making it a one-piece table frame structure with increased rigidity at its maximum level, resistance to the external force of torsion and distortion. The table, having the maximum utility with minimum materials, has increased durability, comfort in usage and convenience for transportation and has lowered energy consumption in the manufacture of household furniture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Inventor: Mei-Fang Chang
  • Patent number: 8555790
    Abstract: A foldable table may include a table top and legs that are movable between an extended position and a collapsed position. The table top may include a first section and a second section that are movable between folded and unfolded positions. A first portion of a side rail may be connected to the first section of the table top and a second portion of the side rail connected to the second section of the table top. A hinge assembly may connect the first and second portions of the side rail in an offset configuration. When the table is in the folded position, an inner surface of the first portion of the side rail may be disposed at least proximate an outer surface of the second portion of the side rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Winter, Jay Calkin, Mitch Johnson, Joel H. Bennett
  • Patent number: 8550012
    Abstract: A folding table has a leg pivotally coupled to a bottom of a tabletop. A pair of links is pivotally coupled together and pivotally coupled in series between the tabletop and the leg. The pair of links, the tabletop and the leg form a four-bar, four-pivot linkage, including four pivots and four bars defined between the pivots. The bars of the linkage are sized and the pivots of the linkage are located to resist movement of the linkage through an intermediate binding configuration between open and closed configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Mity-Lite, Inc.
    Inventors: Grant Rogers, Richard D. Smith
  • Patent number: 8534205
    Abstract: A fold-in-half table may include a first half constructed from molded plastic, such as blow-molded plastic, and a second half constructed from a wire rack. An inner engagement surface of the first half of the table top may engage an inner engagement surface of the second half of the table top when the table is in the unfolded position. The first and second inner engagement surfaces may be spaced apart when the table is in the folded position. The fond-in-half table may also include first and second support structures connected to the first and second halves of the table top and the support structures may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mitch Johnson, Brandon Smith, Jay Calkin
  • Publication number: 20130233210
    Abstract: A foldable table may include a table top and legs that are movable between an extended position and a collapsed position. The table top may include a first section and a second section that are connected by a hinge assembly. A locking member may be sized and configured to lock the hinge assembly in a fixed position. Advantageously, moving the legs between the extended and collapsed positions may cause the locking mechanism to move between the locked and unlocked positions. Thus, when the legs are in the extended position and the locking mechanism is in the locked position, the table top may be secured in the unfolded position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: LIFETIME PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Ju Young Jin, Cai Yixian
  • Publication number: 20130220187
    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: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 8490554
    Abstract: A foldable table includes a table top having a top surface and a bottom surface; a frame assembly disposed on a bottom surface of the table top; at least two leg assemblies pivotally coupled to the frame assembly for movement between an extended position and a folded position; at least two support members, each support member pivotally coupled to the frame assembly and to the at least two leg assemblies; and at least one locking assembly coupled to the at least two support members, each of the at least one locking assembly comprising a ramp portion integrally formed with a locking portion, a channel formed under the ramp portion for guiding and receiving a locking pin, the locking portion having an opening for receiving a pushbutton and the locking pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Ki Ho Jin
  • Patent number: 8438982
    Abstract: A table includes a table top and a pair of support pedestals. A first pivotal support brace can be attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support can be attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces can be pivotally attached to a retaining assembly, which may include a cross-brace member. Alternatively, a second retaining assembly including a cross brace member may be mounted in relation to the table top. In addition, the first and second support pedestals may comprise at least one support leg, wherein each support leg of the first and second support pedestals are laterally offset from each other so as to permit an offset displacement of the support legs when the support pedestals are disposed in a collaspsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Publication number: 20130104782
    Abstract: A folding table has a leg pivotally coupled to a bottom of a tabletop. A pair of links is pivotally coupled together and pivotally coupled in series between the tabletop and the leg. The pair of links, the tabletop and the leg form a four-bar, four-pivot linkage, including four pivots and four bars defined between the pivots. The bars of the linkage are sized and the pivots of the linkage are located to resist movement of the linkage through an intermediate binding configuration between open and closed configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: Grant Rogers, Richard D. Smith
  • Patent number: 8424471
    Abstract: A foldable table includes a tabletop made of U-PVC material with a solid structure, a table reinforcing frame, and two leg frames. The table reinforcing frame is encirclingly mounted at a peripheral edge of the tabletop for forming an edge protector of the tabletop and for evenly distributing and supporting a downward loading force on the tabletop. The two leg frames are foldably supported at the bottom side of the tabletop to fold between an unfolded position and a fold position. Each leg frame includes a folding leg pivotally coupled with the table reinforcing frame and a folding frame pivotally extended from the bottom side of the tabletop to the folding leg. At the unfolded position, the folding leg is pivotally and outwardly folded to downwardly extend from the tabletop. At the folded position, the folding leg is pivotally and inwardly folded to rest under the tabletop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Inventor: Shou Qiang Zhu
  • Patent number: 8413594
    Abstract: Presented is an improved latching mechanism for table legs. While maintaining the benefits of standard folding mechanisms, the mechanism also achieves many benefits including improved table rigidity, an intuitively operable release mechanism, an easily constructed mechanism with as little as three molded pieces and a spring, a single release action to release the mechanism from both a “use” and “folded” configuration, and four spatially separated latching points for each of the “use” and “folded” configurations. Additionally the mechanism meets or exceeds government and industry standards while having a refined appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: DSA International, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael John Ensley
  • Patent number: 8408146
    Abstract: A table may be sized and configured to nest with an adjacent table to reduce a height of a plurality of stacked tables in a nested configuration. The table may include a molded plastic table top that has a receiving portion disposed proximate an outer perimeter of the table top. The receiving portion is sized and configured to receive an engaging portion of an adjacent, nested table. The table may also include a frame with a first load bearing surface sized and configured to contact a generally planar upper surface of another adjacent, nested table. The table may further include an engaging portion sized and configured to be disposed in a receiving portion of the adjacent, nested table. The nested tables are preferably substantially identical and aligned in the stacked configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Wendell Peery, David C. Winter, Mitch Johnson
  • Patent number: 8397653
    Abstract: A table may include a table top and a leg assembly. The leg assembly may be moved between use and storage positions, and the movement of the leg assembly may move a cross member between a first position in which the cross member resists folding of the table top and a second position in which the cross member facilitates folding and unfolding of the table top. The table top may include first and second sections with portions that overlap and/or interlock when the table top is unfolded. When the table top is in the unfolded position, movement of the leg assembly towards the use position may move the cross member towards the overlapping and/or interlocking portions, which may move the overlapping and/or interlocking portions towards each other. When moved towards each other, the overlapping and/or interlocking portions may be securely connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Ashby, Joel Bennett
  • Patent number: 8397652
    Abstract: A table may be sized and configured to nest with another table to reduce a height of a plurality of stacked tables in a nested configuration. The table may include a nesting portion formed in an upper surface and sidewall of the table top. The table may also include a frame with one or more engaging portions sized and configured to be disposed in the nesting portion of an adjacent table when the tables are nested together. In addition, the table top may include a compression edge sized and configured to be disposed in a nesting portion of an adjacent table when the tables are nested together. The compression edge and engaging portions may be sized and configured to be simultaneously disposed in the nesting portion of the adjacent table when the table is nested with the adjacent table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Wendell Peery, David C. Winter, Mitch Johnson
  • Patent number: 8381666
    Abstract: A table includes a table top and a pair of support pedestals. A first pivotal support brace can be attached to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support can be attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces can be pivotally attached to a retaining assembly, which may include a cross-brace member. Alternatively, a second retaining assembly including a cross-brace member may be mounted in relation to the table top. In addition, the first and second support pedestals may comprise at least one support leg, wherein each support leg of the first and second support pedestals are laterally offset from each other so as to permit an offset displacement of the support legs when the support pedestals are disposed in a collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 8381665
    Abstract: A table includes a table top and a pair of support pedestals. A first pivotal support brace can be attached to the first support pedestal and a second pivotal support can be attached to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces can be pivotally attached to a retaining assembly, which may include a cross-brace member. Alternatively, a second retaining assembly including a cross-brace member may be mounted in relation to the table top. In addition, the first and second support pedestals may comprise at least one support leg, wherein each support leg of the first and second support pedestals are laterally offset from each other so as to permit an offset displacement of the support legs when the support pedestals are disposed in a collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 8375871
    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 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 8359983
    Abstract: Some embodiments of a table system can include a table that is readily adjustable between a deployed position and a storage position. In particular embodiments, when the table is in the unlocked condition, the tabletop surface can be readily pivoted from a generally horizontal position to a generally vertical position, for example, for purposes of storing or transporting the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Halcon Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Gerald Williamson, Benjamin St. Mane Conway, Mark Von Der Heide, Jorge Enrique Ramos Herrera, James Lawrence
  • Patent number: 8342107
    Abstract: Blow molded plastic structures are provided for use in various structures such as, but not limited to, tables, chairs, walls, backboards, storage bins, sports equipment and the like. The blow molded plastic structure has a first surface and a second surface extending between a first end and a second end and forming a chamber there between. A plurality of depressions is formed on the second surface and extends into the chamber. The depressions are usually unitary structures formed by a depression wall. Generally, the steeper the depression wall, the more strength is provided to the structure. In addition, where the plurality of depressions has a low profile and a greater density, increased strength is provided to the structure. The depressions may or may not be joined to the first surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry D. Mower, L. Curtis Strong
  • Patent number: 8307769
    Abstract: A light-weight, folding table has a plurality of folding legs coupled to a table top. The table top includes a laminate with a plastic sheet bonded to a plywood layer. A perimeter edge channel encloses a perimeter edge of the laminate along the sides without enclosing corners of the laminate. Corner caps cover the corners of the laminate. The corner caps overlap ends of the edge channel at the corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Mity-Lite, Inc.
    Inventor: Lane Wescott
  • Patent number: 8302541
    Abstract: A structure constructed from plastic may include one or more reinforcing portions that are sized and configured to prevent damage to the structure. For example, the structure may be a table top constructed from blow-molded plastic and the table top may include a body with one or more corners. The corners may include an interior portion and an exterior portion, and reinforcement portions may be sized and configured to help prevent damage to the corners of the table top. In addition, one or more depressions may be at least partially disposed within the reinforcement portions, if desired. The reinforcement portions, for example, may include one or more inwardly and/or outwardly extending portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thayne B. Haney, Jacob Kearl
  • Patent number: 8267019
    Abstract: A foldable table or bed comprises outer frames 1 and 2, leg frames 1 and 2, and leg frame expanding rods. Each outer side of the outer frames 1 and 2 is a flat panel of rectangular shape. Each inner side of the outer frames 1 and 2 is concave for containing leg frames 1 and 2 and leg frame expanding rods. The outer frames 1 and 2 are connected to each other with hinges on the ends of each adjacent side to form a case which can be folded and unfolded via the hinges. The leg frames 1 and 2 are inverted-square-bottomed-“U”-shaped and set in outer frames 1 and 2. Leg frame expanding rods are installed under each leg frame shaft to increase the height of the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: Te-Lung Chen
  • Patent number: 8261676
    Abstract: A table may include a table top and one or more leg assemblies. The table top may include a downwardly extending lip. The table may also include a frame, and the lip may include one or more receiving portions sized and configured to receive a portion of the frame. The receiving portions may also be sized and configured to receive a portion of a leg assembly. The table top may be constructed from molded plastic, such as blow-molded plastic, and the receiving portions may be integrally formed in the table top during the molding process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ed VanNimwegen, Donald Waite
  • Patent number: 8225725
    Abstract: A table in accordance with the present disclosure includes a table top and first and second leg units. Each leg unit is mounted for movement relative to the table top from a closed position alongside the table top to an opened position extending away from the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Cosco Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Voris
  • Patent number: 8209802
    Abstract: A combination patient support table and stretcher assembly having a patient support surface including at least first and second planar sections convertible between first end-to-end secured and second collapsible arrangements. A plurality of legs extend from corner locations associated with the planar support sections, the legs are convertible at least between first downwardly supporting and second outwardly pivoting positions. The assembly operates in a selected configuration as a ground supported and elevated table, and which can further be reconfiguring through actuation of the legs to reconfigure as a patient transportable stretcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Linares Medical Devices, LLC
    Inventor: Miguel A. Linares
  • Patent number: 8156875
    Abstract: A table may include a table top that is capable of being folded-in-half. In particular, the table top may include first and second portions that are capable of being moved being moved between a folded position in which the first portion is disposed proximate the second portion and an unfolded position in which the first portion and the second portion are generally aligned in the same plane. The table may also include first and second legs that are movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the table top. In addition, the table may include a handle that facilitates carrying of the table. The handle may include a gripping portion that is sized and configured to be gripped by a user and the handle may be attached to the table top. The table may further include a handle retention assembly that secures the handle in a fixed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Neunzert, Doug Fuller, Ray Adams
  • Patent number: 8132517
    Abstract: A supporting portion for a foldable table or a foldable bench is described. The supporting portion includes a V-shaped assembly and a supporting brace. The V-shaped assembly includes two connecting rods and a sliding sleeve. Each of the connecting rods has a disconnected end and a connected end. The connected ends are connected to opposite sides of the sliding sleeve to form a unitary block. The sliding sleeve includes a front ring, a rear ring and a middle piece. The middle piece has a locking hole. The disconnected ends are rotatably connected to a pair of legs respectively. One end of the supporting brace is connected to the undersurface of the table or bench top, and the other end is adapted to slide through the sliding sleeve. The supporting brace has an elastic pin proximate to the other end. When the foldable table or bench is in unfolded position, the elastic pin is inserted into the locking hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: New-Tec Integration (Xiamen) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Luhao Leng
  • Publication number: 20120042809
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved latching mechanism for table legs. While maintaining the benefits of standard folding mechanisms, the mechanism of the present invention also achieves many benefits including improved table rigidity, an intuitively operable release mechanism, an easily constructed mechanism with as little as three molded pieces and a spring, a single release action to release the mechanism from both a “use” and “folded” configuration, and four spatially separated latching points for each of the “use” and “folded” configurations. Additionally the present invention provides a mechanism meets or exceeds government and industry standards while having a refined appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventor: Michael John Ensley
  • Patent number: 8113130
    Abstract: A folding mechanism for a folding table is described. The folding table includes a table top, a supporting portion and a leg portion with two legs and a fixing rod mounted between the two legs. The two legs form a rotatable connection with the table top. The supporting portion includes a supporting rod and a locking member. The locking member has a U-shaped sheet and a locking element disposed in the supporting rod. The U-shaped sheet includes a central vertical sheet and two side vertical sheets. The central vertical sheet and the two side vertical sheets are fixed to the fixing rod. The central vertical sheet has a sliding opening for accommodating the supporting rod so that the supporting rod rotates relative to the sliding opening during sliding. One end of the supporting rod is rotatably connected to a lower surface of the table top. The other end passes through the sliding opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: New-Tec Integration (Xiamen) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Luhao Leng
  • Publication number: 20120024203
    Abstract: A foldable table may include a table top and legs that are movable between an extended position and a collapsed position. The table top may include a first section and a second section that are movable between folded and unfolded positions. A first portion of a side rail may be connected to the first section of the table top and a second portion of the side rail connected to the second section of the table top. A hinge assembly may connect the first and second portions of the side rail in an offset configuration. When the table is in the folded position, an inner surface of the first portion of the side rail may be disposed at least proximate an outer surface of the second portion of the side rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: LIFETIME PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: David C. Winter, Jay Calkin, Mitch Johnson, Joel H. Bennett
  • Patent number: 8108813
    Abstract: A design structure for a circuit for obtaining a desired phase locked loop (PLL) duty cycle without a pre-scaler is provided. The PLL circuit of the illustrative embodiments utilizes two separate loops that simultaneously operate on the VCO. One loop ensures the frequency and phase lock while the other loop ensures the duty cycle lock. The VCO is modified to have an additional control port to adjust the duty cycle. Thus, the VCO has one control port for performing frequency adjustment and one control port for duty cycle adjustment. As a result, both the duty cycle and the frequency may be controlled using the VCO of the PLL circuit of the illustrative embodiments so as to achieve any desired duty cycle output without requiring a VCO pre-scaler circuit or duty cycle correction circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: David W. Boerstler, Eskinder Hailu, Masaaki Kaneko, Jieming Qi
  • Patent number: 8074582
    Abstract: A pivotable folding utility table includes a table top having a pair of support pedestals pivotally attached thereto. A first pivotal support brace, which includes a proximal end and a distal end, is attached at its proximal end to the first support pedestal. A second pivotal support brace, which includes a proximal end and a distal end, is attached at its proximal end to the second support pedestal. The distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces are adapted to be pivotally attached to a retaining assembly, mounted in relation to the table top. The distal ends of each pivotal support brace are disposed contiguously in relation to each other when engaging the retaining assembly. 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 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 8069795
    Abstract: A flip-type nesting table includes a frame, a tabletop that pivots between an operative position and a storage position and a hinge and latch assembly that controls the movement of the tabletop between the operative position and the storage position. The hinge and latch assembly includes a pair of hinge brackets that each mount to a rear cross-member. Each hinge bracket includes a front latch that engages a front cross-member to hold the tabletop in the operative position. A rear latch is operable to engage the rear cross-member to hold the tabletop in its upright, storage position. The hinge and latch assembly includes a pull handle coupled to a cross bar that can be used to simultaneously move the latch members to allow movement of the tabletop between the usage position and the storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott J. Williams, James M. Durand, John K. Blomstrom
  • Patent number: 8069796
    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, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 8065965
    Abstract: A portable video game table comprising: a table surface with an underside; at least one spring-loaded floor leg rotatably attached to the underside; at least one spring-loaded sofa leg rotatably attached to the underside; a floor leg locking mechanism located on the at least one spring-loaded floor leg; a sofa leg locking mechanism located on the at least one spring-loaded sofa leg; where the table is configured such that the portable video game table can change to and from a folded configuration and a ready-for-use extended configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Gary Pearson
  • Patent number: 8042476
    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 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stanford
  • Patent number: 8033228
    Abstract: A structure constructed from plastic may include may include one or more reinforcing portions that are sized and configured to prevent damage to the structure. For example, the structure may be a table top constructed from blow-molded plastic and the table top may include a body with one or more corners. The corners may include an interior portion and an exterior portion, and reinforcement portions may be sized and configured to help prevent damage to the corners of the table top. In addition, one or more depressions may be at least partially disposed within the reinforcement portions, if desired. The reinforcement portions, for example, may include one or more inwardly and/or outwardly extending portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thayne B. Haney, Jacob Kearl
  • Patent number: 8006630
    Abstract: Blow molded plastic structures are provided for use in various structures such as, but not limited to, tables, chairs, walls, backboards, storage bins, sports equipment and the like. The blow molded plastic structure has a first surface and a second surface extending between a first end and a second end and forming a chamber there between. A plurality of depressions is formed on the second surface and extends into the chamber. The depressions are usually unitary structures formed by a depression wall. Generally, the steeper the depression wall, the more strength is provided to the structure. In addition, where the plurality of depressions has a low profile and a greater density, increased strength is provided to the structure. The depressions may or may not be joined to the first surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: L. Curtis Strong, Barry D. Mower
  • Patent number: 7988120
    Abstract: A foldable stand for supporting a machine can be folded or extended between a collapsed position, an extended supporting position, and a hand carrying position. The foldable stand includes a platform formed by two bearing bars that define a bearing surface for supporting a machine. Two support units are pivotally connected to the bearing bars and can be pivoted, and selectively locked, between a collapsed position, an extended supporting position, and a hand carrying position. The selective locking is achieved by the selective engagement of positioning devices with locating grooves formed on the foldable stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Rexon Industrial Corp., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chih-Chin Hsu
  • Patent number: 7975625
    Abstract: A table may include a table top and at least one leg assembly. The table top may include a first table top section and a second table top section. The table top sections may be movable between a first position in which the table top sections are generally aligned and a second position in which the table top sections are at an angle. The leg assembly may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the table top. The leg assembly may include a first support structure and a second support structure. The support structures may be movable between a generally aligned position and an angled position when the leg assembly is in the extended position. Moving the support structures to the angled position may help retain the leg assembly in the extended position. Moving the table top sections to the second position may help retain the support structures in the angled position and thus further help retain the leg assembly in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Katie Staples Topham, Jay Calkin, Larry Larcom, Paul Branch
  • Patent number: 7921785
    Abstract: Furniture with a foldable support is provided. The furniture includes a top plate constituting an upper surface of the furniture, a support hinged to support the top plate, a folding part including first and second folding parts hinged to fold the support, and a resilient part for resiliently supporting the second folding part in an unfolding direction. Therefore, it is possible to reduce a volume of the furniture by folding the support into a lower space of the top plate during storage, and improve an unfolding support force of the support by installing the resilient part for applying a resilient force to the folding part upon unfolding of the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: Jeaki Shin
  • Publication number: 20110061573
    Abstract: A folding table and chair each have an unobtrusive folding mechanism that cannot be easily seen when unfolded for use. Because the folding mechanism is not readily seen, folding tables and chairs of a number of well-known and popular styles can be provided that are suitable for use as everyday home furniture. Folding furniture may be particularly desirable for apartment and condominium dwellers who have limited living space and need to occasionally store bulky furniture to fully use such space. The folding furniture of the invention is also easier to move than traditional furniture, including the hinge of the table, which can also serve as a carrying handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Applicant: Meco Corporation
    Inventor: Douglas G. Wright
  • Patent number: 7905185
    Abstract: A table may include a table top and a frame. The frame may be connected to the table top using one or more fasteners. When a force is applied to the table, such as a force that draws the frame away from the table top, the fasteners may contact and/or engage one or more stops, which may help resist the frame's movement away from the table top and may help prevent damage to the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Wendell Peery, Donald Waite, Paul Branch
  • Publication number: 20110041738
    Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, an improved locking mechanism for a mobile folding table is provided, permitting convenient access near the top of the folded table to a manual actuator for unlocking the table from a folded configuration. In another aspect of the present invention, an improved lift-assisting mechanism for a mobile folding table is provided, with a clutch that engages the lift-assisting mechanism only when the table top halves are at an angle from the vertical that is equal to or larger than a predetermined angle. These two aspects of the invention may be advantageously and synergistically combined in the same mobile folding table.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventors: Jeremias C. Rivera, JR., Doss Samikkannu, Gregory Hanusiak