Portable folding utility table with center support assembly

[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of our patent application Ser. No. 09/228,326 filed Jan. 11, 1999 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,112,674 and entitled PORTABLE FOLDING UTILITY TABLE WITH CENTER SUPPORT ASSEMBLY, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 29/105,094, filed May 17, 1999 and entitled UTILITY TABLE, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. Des. 419,332, and application Ser. No. 29/095,372, filed Oct. 21, 1998 and entitled UTILITY TABLE, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. Des. 414,626, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] 1. The Field of the Invention

[0004] The present invention is related to a utility table, and more particularly, to a portable folding utility table having one or more center support assemblies and off-set support legs that selectively support the utility table above a surface.

[0005] 2. Technical Background

[0006] Portable folding utility tables are indispensable for groups or organizations that have limited floor space usable for multiple purposes. For example, foldable utility tables can be placed in a pre-determined configuration to meet the space requirements of a school gymnasium, a church multi-purpose room, or a hotel conference meeting room. Afterward, the tables can be neatly stored away and the conference or meeting room used for a different purpose. Thus, portable folding utility tables allow a group or organization to maximize the efficiency and utility of a particular space.

[0007] Foldable utility tables can also provide an immediate temporary work space in a garage, tool shed, and the like. The portability and foldability of these utility tables allows a user to conveniently set up, take down, and store the table whenever and wherever the user chooses.

[0008] A major drawback with many portable folding utility tables of the prior art, however, is their inherent size and bulkiness. Many such utility tables require two people to collapse and store the table after use. Moreover, some prior art portable folding utility tables are heavy enough to cause injury if dropped or mishandled. These unwieldy tables are usually made from hardwood, particle board, or similarly heavy materials. In an attempt to overcome this weight and bulkiness problem, some prior art portable utility tables are formed of lighter-weight materials. However, many of these light-weight utility tables generally lack the sturdiness of the heavier-weight prior art utility tables.

[0009] Another disadvantage to prior art utility tables is the means used for attaching the table support legs or two or more support pedestals to the underside of the table. As will be appreciated, prior art table support legs are typically attached to the table top using threaded screws or bolts that are drilled into the underside of the table top. This means of attachment may compromise the integrity of the table top thereby making it weaker at the point of attachment between the table support legs and the table top. Other attachment mechanisms may include a form of bonding the table support legs as support pedestals directly against the surface of the table top. Often, however, this means of attachment by bonding weakens the structural integrity of the table top. Thus, when the table support legs fail, a portion of the material forming the table top may pull away at the point of the bonded attachment thereby making the table costly, if not impossible to repair.

[0010] In an attempt to overcome the foregoing disadvantages, prior art utility tables were developed by those skilled in the art that are equipped with complex or heavy-duty attachment mechanisms that facilitate a secure attachment between the table support legs or the support pedestals and the table top. These types of attachment mechanisms, however, are normally heavier, more costly, more difficult to install, and typically require additional time to manufacture.

[0011] The previously stated disadvantages are compounded by the fact that many prior art utility tables incorporate a separate and distinct attachment mechanism for attaching each table support leg or pedestal to the table top. As appreciated, most existing portable folding utility tables have two sets of support legs or pedestal supports, one at each end of the table. Each of these supports is typically attached to the underside of the table top at two places or points of contact. Correspondingly, many of these types of utility tables have at least four separate points of attachment, each attachment between the support legs or pedestal supports facilitated by a separate attachment mechanism. One particular problem with utility tables having separate and distinct attachment mechanisms is that they are generally susceptible to bowing in the center of the table top under stress. This is especially true with larger banquet-style tables.

[0012] Yet another drawback with many prior art utility tables is that the hard materials used to maintain a sufficient rigidity and sturdiness of the table top often have sharp edges which may be uncomfortable for the user to lean against or rest their arms upon. Further, these materials may also be susceptible to damage or degradation from the elements of nature.

[0013] In addition, smaller utility tables that are found in the prior art usually comprise shortened support legs that fail to provide sufficient height to the table top in relation to the underlying surface, thus these types of table are generally uncomfortable to users. In particular, when these prior art utility tables are configured in the folded position for storage, the table support legs are required to be short enough so not to interfere with each other when folded in a conventional fashion underneath the table top. Small folding utility tables of the prior art are also typically bulky when disposed in the folded position because complex and unwieldy mechanisms are generally required to accommodate the use of longer support legs that may be incorporated to overcome the inherent height deficit found in most smaller utility tables.

[0014] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that it would be an advancement in the art to provide a portable folding utility table that is durable enough to withstand the increased wear and tear that portable utility tables are subjected to over long periods of time and sturdy enough to support varying sized loads that will be placed on the table, while at the same time being light-weight enough to be easily set up and taken down.

[0015] It would be another advancement in the art to provide a portable folding utility table having a leg or support pedestal attachment mechanism that does not involve a complex design, heavy-duty attachment hardware, or need to be screwed, bolted, or bonded to the under side of the table top. It would be a further advancement in the art to provide a portable folding utility table that minimizes the points of attachment to the surface of the table top and facilities attachment mechanisms that interrelate with each other to support the table top above an underlying surface.

[0016] Furthermore, it would be an advancement in the art to provide a portable folding utility table that may provide a smaller working surface than larger utility table, but that is comfortable to work at in relation to its height disposition and which is capable of withstanding the elements of nature.

[0017] Finally, it would be an advancement in the art to provide a portable folding utility table in which the support legs or pedestals, having a length greater than the corresponding length of the table top, can fold against the underside of the table top when disposed for storage without interfering with each other, so that smaller frames and table tops can be used that accommodate a sufficient height disposition in relation to the underlying support surface.

[0018] Such a portable folding utility table is disclosed and claimed herein.

[0019] The present invention is directed to a novel portable folding utility table having a center support assembly. The utility table includes a table top supported by a pair of support pedestals. In one presently preferred embodiment, the table top includes a mounting surface and a working surface formed opposite the mounting surface. The working surface may be textured and may include an outer periphery, at least a portion of which is beveled to provide comfort to a user.

[0020] A first end of each support pedestal is preferably attached to the mounting surface of the table top. In one presently preferred embodiment, the support pedestals are pivotally attached to the mounting surface of the table top, to allow each support pedestal to be moved between a collapsed position and an extended position for supporting the table top above a surface. A securing member may also be attached to the mounting surface for releasably securing one or more support pedestals in the collapsed position.

[0021] Additionally, the utility table may include a first pivoting support brace attached to the first support pedestal at a proximal end and to the mounting surface at a distal end thereof. Similarly, a second pivoting support brace may be attached to the second support pedestal at a proximal end and to the mounting surface at a distal end thereof In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the distal ends of the first and second pivotal support braces are disposed contiguous to each other at a retention assembly attached to the mounting surface or, in the alternative, to a support frame.

[0022] In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the retention assembly may include a single cross-brace member disposed through openings formed at the distal ends of the pivotal support braces and secured to the mounting surface. The mounting surface may be configured such that opposing ends of the cross-brace member are introduced through openings disposed in opposing sides of the mounting surface of the table top and may further include a mount for receiving and retaining the cross-brace member therein. Thus, the distal ends of both support pedestals are preferably attached along the length of the cross-brace member which is secured to the mounting surface, thereby reducing the number of attachment mechanisms and interrelating the support pedestals to the table top to increase structural support and efficiency of manufacture.

[0023] In another presently preferred embodiment, each support pedestal includes a first member pivotally engaging the mounting surface of the table top and a second member configured for telescoping engagement with the first member. This configuration permits the height of the support pedestal to be disposed between a lengthened position and a retracted position.

[0024] In an alternative presently preferred embodiment, the table may include two cross-brace members providing separate attachment points for the first and second pivotal support braces. Such a configuration is particularly desirable for tables having an extended length, in which it may not be advantageous for each of the pivotal support braces to have lengths sufficient for extending into the center of the table top. Correspondingly, a dual cross-brace configuration may provide additional space for accommodating one or more user's legs under the table top.

[0025] Moreover, in yet another presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, each support pedestal may include two legs slightly offset from the corresponding legs of the other support pedestal disposed on the opposing side of the table top, so that longer support legs can be accommodated under a smaller table top when disposed above an underlying surface. This off-set distance is sufficient to keep the support legs of the opposing support pedestal from interfering with one another-, thus allowing displacement substantially against the mounting surface of the table top when disposed in the retracted position for storage.

[0026] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the present invention provides a portable folding utility table that is durable enough to withstand increased wear and tear yet is light-weight for easy set up and take down. The present invention also provides a novel center support assembly that provides increased structural stability to the table top with efficient design such that to allow the interrelation of the support pedestals. The center support assembly is also cost effective to manufacture and does not compromise the structural integrity of the table top. Further, the present invention provides a utility table that facilitates a height that is comfortable for one or more users to work at. The foregoing and other advantages and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent by examination of the following description of the presently preferred embodiments and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0027] To better understand the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to the appended drawings. These drawings only provide information concerning typical embodiments of the invention and are not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective cut-away view of one presently preferred embodiment of a portable folding utility table with center support assembly,

[0029] FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 illustrating various components of the present invention;

[0030] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 illustrates a retaining assembly and support pedestals in relation to a mounting surface of the table top;

[0031] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another presently preferred embodiment of the portable folding utility table that includes two center support assemblies, and FIG. 5 is a perspective view of yet another presently preferred embodiment of the portable folding utility table with center support assembly with an off-set disposition of the legs of the opposing support pedestals.

[0032] It will be readily understood that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the Figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the assembly and method of the present invention, as represented in FIGS. 1 through 5, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but it is merely representative of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0033] The presently preferred embodiments of the invention will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout.

[0034] One presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, designated generally at 10, is best illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown, with particular reference to FIG. 1, a utility table according to the present invention is generally designated at 10. The utility table 10 preferably includes a table top 12 having a mounting surface 14 and a working surface 16 disposed opposite the mounting surface 14. In one presently preferred embodiment, the table top 12 is supported by a first support pedestal 18 and a second support pedestal 20. The first and second support pedestals 18, 20 may each comprise a first end 22 attached to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12.

[0035] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the utility table 10 of one presently preferred embodiment includes a first pivotal support brace 24 having a proximal end 26 attached to the first support pedestal 18 and a distal end 28 attached to the mounting surface 14. Similarly, a second pivotal support brace 30 is shown having a proximal end 32 attached to the second support pedestal 20 and a distal end 34 attached to the mounting surface 14. The distal end 28 of the first pivotal support brace 24 may be disposed contiguous the distal end 34 of the second pivotal support brace 30. The distal ends 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30 are disposed in relation to a retaining assembly 36, which may be attached to the mounting surface 14. In one preferred embodiment, the retaining assembly 36 comprise a cross member.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 2, the utility table 10 includes a frame 40. The frame 40 may comprise a first side rail 42 and an opposing second side rail 44. Preferably, the first side rail 42 is disposed substantially parallel the opposing second side rail 44, thereby providing a generally longitudinal alignment therebetween. The first and second side rails 42, 44 may be configured with a plurality of retaining apertures 46 to facilitate attachment of the support pedestals 18, 20 and the cross brace member 36 to the frame 40.

[0037] In one presently preferred embodiment, the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 comprises opposing longitudinal interior side walls 48 and opposing orthogonal interior side walls 52 disposed along an interior periphery of the table top 12. The first and second side rails 42, 44 may be secured to respective opposing longitudinal side walls 48, thus adding rigidity and strength to the structural integrity of table top 12. In one presently preferred embodiment, the side rails 42, 44 are secured to the opposing longitudinal side walls 48 by fasteners. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the side rails 42, 44 may be secured to the opposing longitudinal side walls 48 of the mounting surface 14 using any number or variety of fasteners readily known in the art, such as, for example, screws, bolts, rivets, adhesives, or the like.

[0038] The cross-section of the sides rails 42, 44 may be configured having an S-shape. In one presently preferred embodiment, the side rails 42, 44 may be attached to the respective longitudinal side walls 48 so as to form respective channels 50 along the side rails 42, 44 between the side rails 42, 44 and the longitudinal side walls 48 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In this configuration, the first end 22 of the support pedestals 18, 20 may be positioned within opposing respective retaining apertures 46 formed in the side rails 42, 44 abutting the longitudinal side walls 48 within the channels 50, thereby substantially preventing lateral movement of the support pedestals 18, 20 relative to the table top 12. Likewise, the cross brace member 36 may be positioned within opposing respective retaining apertures 46 formed in the side rails 42, 44 abutting the longitudinal side walls 48 within the channels 50, thereby substantially preventing lateral movement of the cross brace member 36 relative to the table top 12. In one presently preferred embodiment, the support pedestals 18, 20 and the cross brace member 36 are preferably disposed substantially parallel to each other and in spaced-apart relationship, wherein the cross brace member 36 is positioned between the opposing support pedestals 18, 20.

[0039] Still referring to FIG. 2, the frame 40 may also comprise a first end rail 54 and an opposing second end rail 56. Preferably, the first end rail 54 is disposed substantially parallel to the opposing end rail 56. Each end rail 54, 56 has a first end 58 and a second end 60 and is preferably positioned along the opposing orthogonal interior side walls 52 of the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12. In one presently preferred embodiment, the first end 58 of each end rail 54, 56 is disposed within the channel 50 adjacent respective ends 62a, 62bof the first side rail 42. Likewise, the second end 60 of each end rail 54, 56 is disposed within a channel 50 adjacent respective ends 64a, 64bof the second side rail 44, thereby providing a generally rectangular shape to substantially correspond with the generally preferable rectangular shape of the table top 12.

[0040] In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first and second ends 58, 60 of respective end rails 54, 56 are configured with a tab member 66. The tab member 66 may be configured to fit within respective channels 50 beneath the retaining aperture 46 near the ends 62, 64 of the respective side rails 42, 44 with the utility table 10 in an upright position. It will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that, in this configuration, the tab members 66 act as levers with the support pedestals 18, 20 (positioned within the channels 50 near the ends 62, 64 of the respective side rails 42, 44), thus acting as corresponding fulcrums. In this manner, the end rails 54, 56 strengthen respective ends 68a, 68bof the table top 12, and protect against bowing of the table top 12 at the ends 68a, 68b. The first and second side rails 42, 44 in combination with the first and second end rails 54, 56 provide a means for structurally supporting the table top 12, the support pedestals 18, 20, and the pivotal support braces 24, 30. In this configuration, lighter weight table tops 12 may be used with this novel construction without losing rigidity or structural integrity.

[0041] As will be appreciated, the end rails 54, 56 may interrelate to the side rails 42, 44 in a variety of ways to provide structural support for the utility table 10 and help protect against bowing under various loads that may be applied to the utility table 10. For example, the end rails 54, 56 may be welded to the side rails 42, 44. The end rails 54, 56 may also be bonded to the side rails 42, 44 using a variety of suitable epoxies or resins. Further, the end rails 54, 56 and the side rails 42, 44 may be formed as a single unitary piece configured to the desired size and shape. Moreover, it will be also appreciated that the end rails 54, 56 and the side rails 42, 44 need not interrelate at all, but could simply be attached to the respective interior opposing side walls 48, 52 of the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12.

[0042] In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the frame 40 is formed of a substantially sturdy, rigid material sufficient to provide structural integrity to the table top 12. For example, the frame 40 may be formed of metal. However, it will be readily appreciated that the frame may be formed of a wide variety of other suitable materials which are consistent with the spirit and scope of the present invention. It will further be appreciated that the size and configuration of the frame 40 will depend, in part, on the size and configuration of the table top 12. Accordingly, the table top 12 and the frame 40 may be configured in a variety of shapes and configurations, including, but not limited to, a circle, polygon, square, rectangle, triangle, or any other suitable geometrical configuration.

[0043] Referring now to FIG. 3, the shape and size of the frame 40 is configured to generally conform to the periphery of the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12. Specifically, in one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the frame 40 is attached in relation to the mounting surface 14 by means of fasteners (not shown) which generally penetrate both the frame 40 and an adjacent point of contact of the mounting surface 14. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a variety of other suitable means or methods for attaching the frame 40 to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 may be employed, including, but not limited to, rivets, screws, bolts, glues, epoxies, or other bonding materials.

[0044] As can be best seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 is preferably configured to facilitate the attachment of the frame 40 to the mounting surface of the table top 12. In one presently preferred embodiment, the mounting surface 14 is configured with seats (not shown) positioned such that the end rails 54, 56 may be positioned between respective opposing orthogonal interior walls 52 and the seats (not shown). In this configuration, the end rails 54, 56 are substantially prevented from bowing inwardly toward the center of the utility table 10 under loads exerted upon the opposing ends of the table top 12.

[0045] It will be readily appreciated that the mounting surface 14 need not have interior side walls 48, 52 at all to practice the teachings of the present invention. In this regard, the teachings of the present invention may be practiced without a frame 40 if the table top 12 is sufficiently rigid. It will further be appreciated by those skilled in the art that in the embodiments where there is no frame, the support pedestals 18, 20 and cross brace member 36 may be attached to an interior portion of the mounting surface 14. Further, in preferred embodiments where there are interior side walls 48, 52 but no frame 40, the support pedestals 18, 20 and cross brace member) 6 may be positioned directly in retaining apertures (not shown) formed within the interior side walls 48, 52 of the mounting structure 14 of the table top 12.

[0046] Referring back to FIG. 2, the support pedestals 18, 20 are pivotally attached to the mounting surface 14, thereby permitting each of the support pedestals 18, 20 to be moved between a collapsed position, in which each support pedestal 18, 20 lies flat in substantially the same plane as the table top 12, and an extended position, in which each support pedestal 18, 20 is folded outward, substantially perpendicular to the plane of the table top 12.

[0047] Each support pedestal 18, 20 may include a pair of substantially parallel posts 80. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the teachings of the present invention can be practiced if each support pedestal 18, 20 has more or less than two posts 80. Each pair of posts 80 comprises a first end 82 and a second opposing end 84. In one presently preferred embodiment, the first end 82 of each respective pair of posts 80 is secured to a cross pole 86. Respective ends 88 of each cross pole 86 are preferably positioned within opposing retaining apertures 46 disposed within the opposing side rails 42, 44 of the frame 40 such that the support pedestals 18, 20 may be disposed substantially parallel to each other. In this configuration, each cross pole 86 rotates within respective pairs of retailing apertures 46 when respective pedestals 18, 20 move between the collapsed position and the extended position. In one presently preferred embodiment, a stabilizer arm 90 is preferably disposed between the respective pairs of posts 80 to assist in structurally maintaining the spaced-apart relationship of the posts 80.

[0048] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the support pedestals 18, 20 may be configured in a variety of ways such that to practice the teachings of the present invention. For example, the support pedestals 18, 20 may comprise a solid or integral piece or the posts 80 may be curved in a different manner (e.g., see, FIG. 3). It will further be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the support pedestals 18, 20 need not be in pivotal engagement with the table top 12 to be collapsible. For example, the support pedestals 18, 20 may simply be detachably engaged in relation to the table top 12 such that when it is desired to collapse the utility table 10 for storage, the support pedestals 18, 20 are removed from selective engagement with the table top 12.

[0049] As stated above, the first and second support pedestals 18, 20 are preferably connected to the table top 12 by means of the first and second pivotal support braces 24, 30, respectively. In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the proximal ends 26, 32 of the respective pivotal support braces 24, 30 are bifurcated to facilitate pivotal engagement with the posts 80 of the respective support pedestals 18, 20 as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3. The bifurcated proximal ends of the pivotal support braces 24, 30 each preferably comprise a pair of angled members 100.

[0050] Referring specifically to FIG. 2, the angled members 100 may include a tab member 102 which pivotally engages and partially overlaps a corresponding tab member 104 adjacent each of the distal ends 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30, respectively, at an overlapping portion 106. When the support pedestals 18, 20 are in the extended position, the tabs 102 of the angled members 100 of the bifurcated proximal ends 26, 32 are disposed substantially parallel to the tabs 104 adjacent each distal end 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30. When the support pedestals 18, 20 are in the collapsed position, the tabs 102 of the angled members 100 of the bifurcated proximal ends 26, 32 are disposed substantially unparallel to the tabs 104 adjacent each distal end 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30.

[0051] The utility table 10 may include a pair of locking collars 108 which slidably engage respective pivotal support braces 24, 30. The locking collars 108 are preferably sized to fit over respective overlapping portions 106 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30 when the support pedestals 18, 20 are in the extended position. With the locking collars 108 positioned over respective overlapping portions 106, the bifurcated proximal ends 26, 32 are prevented from moving relative to corresponding distal ends 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30, thus preventing the support pedestal supports 18, 20 from being positioned in the collapsed position without first disengaging the locking collars 108, respectively.

[0052] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that with the utility table 10 in an upright position and the support pedestals 18, 20 in the extended position, the collars 108 may, under the force of gravity, position themselves about the overlapping portions 106. It will be further appreciated that a variety of other locking mechanisms as assemblies may be utilized to lock the support pedestals 18, 20 in the extended position which are consistent with the spirit and scope of the present invention, including latches or other fasteners.

[0053] With reference now to FIG. 3, the utility table 10 is shown having an alternative configuration of the support pedestals 18, 20. In this alternate embodiment, each support pedestal 18, 20 comprises a first member 114 pivotally engaged to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 and a second member 116 configured for telescoping engagement with the first member 114, thereby permitting the height of each support pedestal 18, 20 to be selectively disposed at a plurality of predetermined heights between a lengthened position and a retracted position.

[0054] In one presently preferred embodiment, each first member 114 of the support pedestals 18, 20 includes a pair of outer members 118 each having a proximal end 120 and a distal end 122. The proximal end of each outer member 118 is connected to the table top 12 by means of the cross pole 86 to which they are preferably fixed (e.g., welded). The second member 116 of each support pedestal 18, 20 includes a pair of inner members 124 each having a proximal end 126 and a distal end 128. The proximal end 126 of the inner members 124 are configured in dimensional size and shape to engage the distal ends 122 of the outer members 118 in telescopic engagement. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that one or more stabilizer arms 90 may be employed to support the telescopic pedestals 18, 20.

[0055] Preferably, the inner members 124 and outer members 118 are separated by a hard plastic bushing (not shown) to facilitate the slidable movement of the inner members 124 relative to the outer members 118. Each bushing may be held in place with two small extensions that extend through small holes (not shown) in the outer members 118. It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that there are a number of ways to facilitate the telescopic movement of the first member 114 relative to the second member 116 of each support pedestal 18, 20.

[0056] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the support pedestals 18, 20 include means for locking the support pedestals 18, 20 in preselected positions between the retracted position and the lengthened position. At least one of the inner members 124 is configured with a first hole 134. A corresponding outer member 118 may be configured with at least one hole 136 and preferably a plurality of holes 136 positioned such that at a preselected table top 12 height, the first hole 134 in the inner member 124 may be aligned with a second hole 136 in the outer member 118. In one presently preferred embodiment, a snap pin mechanism 138 may be positioned adjacent the first hole 134 within the inner member 124 such that the pin 138 is biased outwardly through the aligned holes 134, 136, thereby locking the inner and outer members 118, 124 of the support pedestals 18, 20 in a preselected position. By supplying sufficient force to the pin mechanism 138, it may be disengaged and removed from the hole 136 in the outer member 118, thereby permitting relative movement between the inner 124 and outer 118 members of the support pedestals 18, 20 and allowing the support pedestals 18, 20 to be selectively raised or lowered. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that a variety of other adjustment mechanisms as assemblies known in the art for locking the first and second support pedestals 18, 20 in an extended position may be utilized and are herein incorporated.

[0057] As best shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the distal ends 28, 34 of each pivotal support brace 24, 30 are engageably secured to the retaining assembly 36 (e.g., cross brace member). In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the distal ends 28, 34 of each pivotal support brace 24, 30, respectively, are pivotally attached to the retaining assembly 36. Each of said distal ends 28, 34 are configured with an opening 142 having an interior periphery sufficient for engaging at least a portion of the linear length of the cross-brace member 36.

[0058] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the retaining assembly 36 generally provides structural support to the center of the table top 12 of the utility table 10. It will further be appreciated that with the distal ends 28, 34 attached contiguous each other in retention to the cross brace member 36, forces applied to the table top 12 which would ordinarily be transferred through one of the support pivotal braces 24, 30, respectively, into the table top 12 causing it to bow, will substantially be nullified by the counter force provided by the opposing pivotal support brace 24, 30, respectively.

[0059] For example, the horizontal component of a force applied by a user at one end 68a of the table top 12 will act upon the pivotal support brace 18 and, because the distal ends 28, 34 of the pivotal support braces 24, 30, respectively, are attached to the retaining assembly 36, an equal and opposite horizontal force component applied by the other pivotal support brace 20 will substantially cancel out the horizontal component of the original force. Accordingly, the present invention provides increased structural support to the table top 12 with fewer parts. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the retaining assembly 36 can be disposed in a variety of configurations which are consistent with the spirit and scope of the present invention so as to allow the pivotal support braces 24, 30 to supportably interrelate with each other. Such alternative configurations are discussed below.

[0060] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the table top 12 is preferably formed of a blow-molded plastic, and specifically, high density polyethylene. It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, however, that the table top 12 may be formed of a variety of other sufficiently sturdy materials such as, plywood, particle board, solid wood, wood slates, metal alloys, fiberglass, ceramics, graphite, any of numerous organic, synthetic or processed materials, including thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers of high molecular weight with or without additives, such as, plasticisers, auto oxidants, extenders, colorants, ultraviolet light stabilizers, or fillers and/or other composite materials.

[0061] Referring back to FIG. 1, in one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the working surface 16 of the table top 12 may be smooth or, in the alternative, textured, if desired. In addition, the working surface 16 may comprise an outer periphery 144 having at least a portion 146 which is beveled to increase the comfort of a person resting their arms against the edges of the table top 12. In one presently preferred embodiment, the entire outer periphery 144 of the working surface 16 of the table top 12 is beveled. The height of the blow-molded table top 12 of one presently preferred embodiment is about five centimeters, the thickness of any panel 13 of the blow-molded table top 12 is preferably about one-half of a centimeter to about three-quarters of a centimeter.

[0062] Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the mounting surface 14 may include at least one mounting member 148. Preferably, a pair of mounting members 148 are attached to the mounting surface 14 to receive and retain the cross brace member 36 of the retaining assembly. In one presently preferred embodiment, each mounting member 148 includes a recess or groove 150 configured with a corresponding size and shape sufficient to retain the cross brace member 36 therein. For example, the cross brace member 36 may snap fit into the recess or groove 150 of the mounting member 148.

[0063] Additionally, the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 may further include one or more securing members 152 for securing each of the support pedestals 18, 20, respectively. Preferably, a pair of securing members 152 are disposed in relation to the mounting surface 14 for releasably securing a respective support pedestal 18, 20 in the collapsed position adjacent the mounting surface 14. Each securing member 152 is generally configured and disposed relative to the mounting surface 14 such that when the support pedestals 18, 20 are in the collapsed position, at least one securing member 152 frictionally engages a support pedestal post 80 such that the Support pedestals 18, 20, respectively, may be maintained in the collapsed position, as illustrated in FIG. 3. In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, a pair of securing members 152 are offset on opposing sides of a single support pedestal post 80 for securing each of the support pedestals 18, 20, respectively, in the collapsed position. It will be apparent that other mechanisms may be constructed in accordance with the inventive principles set forth herein for securing the support pedestals 18, 20 in the collapsed position. It is intended, therefore, that the examples provided herein be viewed as exemplary of the principles of the present invention, and not as restrictive to a particular structure for implementing those principles.

[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, a first manifold 154 and a second manifold 156 are preferably disposed at opposing ends 68a, 68bof the table top 12. The manifolds 154, 156 provide additional support for the ends 68a, 68bof the table top 12 and assist in facilitating the blow molding process by providing a means for uniformly dispersing air down the length of the table top 12. The mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 may also include a plurality of depressions 158 (e.g., kiss-offs) which tend to add structural support and integrity to the table top 12. In one presently preferred embodiment, these depressions 158 are uniformly distributed throughout the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12.

[0065] The structural features of the table top 12, including the beveled edges and/or textured working surface 16, the mounting members 148, the securing members 152, the manifolds 154, 156, and the depressions 158 may be integral with the table top 12 and may be formed by means of a corresponding mold and blow-molding process. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that there are alternative ways to create and attach these features. For example, the mounting members 148, securing members 152, and manifolds 154, 156 may be separate pieces that are attached to the mounting surface 14 by adhesive bonding or the use of conventional fasteners. Likewise, the texturing and/or beveling of the edges of the working surface of the table top and the introduction of depressions into the mounting surface may also be accomplished after the table top 12 is molded by a variety of conventional methods readily known in the art.

[0066] As best illustrated in FIG. 1, when the utility table 10 is disposed in an upright position in relation to an underlying surface and the support pedestals 18, 20 extended with the collars 108 placed over the overlapping portions 106 of the respective pivotal support braces 24, 30, the utility table 10 of the present invention is positioned for use. When a user desires to collapse the utility table 10 for storage, one presently preferred method for doing so is to invert the utility table 10, as shown in FIG. 3. With the utility table 10 in the inverted position, the collars 108 may be slid away from engagement with the overlapping portion 106 of the respective pivotal support braces 24, 30. This allows the support pedestals 18, 20 to be folded inwardly toward the table top 12 into the collapsed position. With the support pedestals 18, 20 in the collapsed position, the utility table 10 can easily be moved and stored.

[0067] With reference now to FIG. 4, another presently preferred embodiment of the utility table of the present invention is generally designated at 210. In this embodiment, the utility table 210 includes a table top 12 having a mounting surface 14 and a working surface 16 disposed opposite the mounting surface 14. A first support pedestal 18 and a second support pedestal 20 are pivotally attached to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12. Preferably, the first and second support pedestals 18, 20 are independently attached to a support bar 212 having opposing ends 211 configured to engage receiving apertures 46 formed in opposing side rails 42, 44 of a rigid frame 40 supportably disposed in relation to the table top 12.

[0068] In one presently preferred embodiment, the support bar 212 is configured having a bend formed at its opposing ends 211 to ensure that the first and second support pedestals 18, 20, respectively, fold properly against the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 when disposed in the collapsed position. As appreciated, the slight bend formed at the opposing ends 211 of the support bar 212 has the structural effect of extending the central portion of the support bar 212 away from the axis of rotation of the support bar 212 relative to the frame 40. Moreover, the bending configuration of the support bar 212 at its opposing ends 211 provides additional safety, in proportion to the weight applied against the table top 12, by maintaining the first and second support pedestals 18 and 20 in the extended position.

[0069] The support bar 212 may be omitted from engagement with the proximal end 120 of the support pedestals 18, 20 in favor of a suitable attachment assembly designed to facilitate pivotal engagement between the support pedestals 18, 20 and the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize other possible modifications and adaptations which are consistent with the spirit and scope of the present invention and which are herein contemplated by the present invention.

[0070] Still referring to FIG. 4, the utility table 210 of the present invention may include each first member 114 of the support pedestals 18, 20 having a pair of outer members 118 each having a proximal end 120 and a distal end 122. The proximal end of each outer member 118 is connected to the table top 12 by means of the support bar 212 to which they are preferably fixed (e.g., welded). The second member 116 of each Support pedestal 18, 20 includes a pair of inner members 124 each having a proximal end 126 and a distal end 128. The proximal end 126 of the inner members 124 are configured in dimensional size and shape to slidably engage the distal ends 122 of the outer members 118 in telescopic engagement.

[0071] Preferably, the inner members 124 and outer members 118 are separated by a hard plastic bushing (not shown) to facilitate the slidable movement of the inner members 124 relative to the outer members 118. Each bushing may be held in place with two small extensions that extend through small holes (not shown) in the outer members 118. It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that there are numerous ways to facilitate the telescopic movement of the first member 114 relative to the second member 116 of each support pedestal 18, 20 which are readily contemplated herein. It is also contemplated herein that the length of the support pedestals 18, 20 may be fixed and, thus, not selectively adjustable to a plurality of heights.

[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 4, an elongated foot member 213 may be rigidly attached at the distal end 128 of each of the inner members 124 of the Support pedestals 18, 20 so as to provide additional stability to the table top 12 when disposed in the upright position. Preferably, the foot member 213 facilitates a more even dispersion of the supportable weight of the utility table 210 over a greater portion of the underlying surface. In addition, because the length of the foot member 213 tends to span the distance between the first and second members 114, 116, one or more stabilizer arms 90 may be unnecessary.

[0073] Similar to the preferred embodiments of the utility table illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the utility table 210 includes a first pivotal support brace 224 having a bifurcated proximal end 226 attached to the first support pedestal 18 and a distal end 228 pivotally attached to a first retaining assembly 36a. Similarly, a second pivotal support brace 230 having a bifurcated proximal end 232 attached to the second support pedestal 20 and a distal end 234 pivotally attached to a second retaining assembly 36b. In one presently preferred embodiment, each of the retaining assemblies 36a, 36bcomprise a cross-brace member having opposing ends and an intermediate body portion formed therebetween. Each of the distal ends 228, 234 of the pivotal support braces 224, 230 are configured with openings 242 having an internal periphery sufficient for engaging at least a portion of the length of the intermediate body portion of the cross-brace members 36a, 36b, respectively.

[0074] The opposing ends of the first and second cross-brace members 36a, 36b, respectively, are configured so as to be introduced and retained within corresponding retaining apertures 46 formed in opposing side rails 42, 44 of the frame 40 or, in the alternative, within opposing, interior side walls of the table top 12. Preferably, the first and second cross-brace members 36a, 36bare separated by a central portion 216 of the table top 12. Structurally, this central portion 216 of the table top 12 must have sufficient structural integrity to support a compressive load, either through the frame 40, the entire surface of the table top 12, or by some combination of the two, when weight is applied against the table top 12 to avoid bowing.

[0075] The dual cross-brace supportable configuration of the utility table 210 of the present invention is advantageous because the pivotal support braces 24, 30 obstruct less of the available space beneath the table top 12 and between the support pedestals 18, 20. Consequently, more room is available to accommodate the legs of one or more users beneath the table top 12, thereby making the utility table 210 more comfortable to users. Furthermore, the absence of the cross-brace members 36a, 36bfrom the central portion 216 of the table top 12 provides usable storage space to accommodate the foot members 213 when the support pedestals 18, 20 are disposed in the collapsed position. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the central portion 216 integrally formed in the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 may be configured having a wider or narrower dimension than illustrated by way of example in FIG. 4, depending on the overall extended length of the table top 12, the supportable weight the table top is designed to bear, the size of the foot members 213, and/or the need for usable space beneath the table top 12 when the utility table 210 is disposed in the usable position.

[0076] In one presently preferred embodiment, a pair of locking collars 217 are provided which slidably engage respective overlapping portions of the pivotal support braces 224, 230. The locking collars 217 are preferably configured and sized such that when the support pedestals 18, 20 are selectively disposed in the extended position, the locking collars 217 may be engageably positioned in relation to the overlapping portions to prevent the bifurcated proximal ends 226, 232 from moving relative to the corresponding distal ends 228, 234 of the pivotal support braces 224, 230, thus preventing the support pedestal supports 18, 20 from being positioned in the collapsed position without first disengaging the locking collars 217, respectively.

[0077] As with the previous preferred embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, a plurality of kiss-offs 218 may be formed in the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 to add structural integrity and strength to the working surface 16 of the blow molded table top. In addition, a plurality of plateaus 219 and longitudinal trenches 220 may also be formed in the mounting surface 14 to further add stiffening and strength to the table top 12. Correspondingly, these plateaus 219 and trenches 220 operably function to increase the section modulus of the table top 12 by moving material away from the neutral axis of the table top 12, thus making it more difficult to bend the table top 12 in a longitudinal direction, as when a heavy load is positioned in the middle of the table top 12. As will be appreciated, the kiss-offs 218 may be formed within the trenches 220 to ensure that the table top 12 can be made hollow without concern that the working surface 16 may have a tendency to flex inwardly toward the mounting surface 14 when a weight is placed on the table top 12.

[0078] Additionally, an opening 222 may be formed in the table top 12 to provide means for introducing a support pole of an umbrella assembly (not shown) or the like. Although certain structural elements and components, such as: (1) one or more stabilizer arms 90 engageably disposed in relation to the first and second member 114, 116 of the support pedestals 18, 20 (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (2) one or more mounting members 148 for supportably retaining the retaining assembly 36 in relation to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (3) one or more securing members 152 attached to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 for securing the support pedestals 18, 20 in the collapsed position (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (4) one or more manifolds 154, 156 that assist in facilitating the blow molding process by providing for uniform dispersion of air along the length of the blow molded table top 12 (see FIGS. 2 and 3); and (5) beveled edges and/or a textured working surface 16 (see FIG. 1) have been omitted from the embodiment of the utility table 210 illustrated in FIG. 4. It is contemplated herein that one or more of these structural features, however, may be incorporated into the alternate design of the utility table 210, if desired.

[0079] With reference now to FIG. 5, another presently preferred embodiment of the utility table of the present invention is generally designated at 310. As shown, the utility table 310 includes a table top 12 having a mounting surface 14 and a working surface 16 disposed opposite the mounting surface. Structurally, the table top 12 is preferably supported above an underlying surface by a first support pedestal 18 and a second support pedestal 20 disposed at spaced-apart relationship to the first support pedestal. Both the first and second support pedestals 18, 20 are preferably attached to the mounting surface 14 or, in the alternative to a rigid support frame 40. A first pivotal support brace 324 includes a proximal end 326 pivotally attached to the first support pedestal 18 and a distal end 328 pivotally attached to a retaining assembly 36. Similarly, a second pivotal support brace 330 is shown having a proximal end 332 pivotally attached to the second support pedestal 20 and a distal end 334 pivotally attached to the retaining assembly 36. As will be appreciated, the distal ends 328, 334 of the first and second pivotal support braces 324, 330, respectively, may be pivotally attached to the mounting surface 14 by means of a engaging bracket (not shown).

[0080] Because the alternate preferred embodiment of the utility table 310, as illustrated in FIG. 5, is substantially similar in construction to the utility table 10 shown in FIGS. 1-3, only those structural variations which exist between these two embodiments will be further disclosed hereinbelow.

[0081] Specifically, one presently preferred embodiment of the utility table 310 includes a first support pedestal 18 having two support legs 312, 314. Each of the support legs 314, 316 of the first support pedestal 18 may be formed having a proximate end 316 rigidly attached to a cross pole 86 mounted in pivotal relation to the frame 40 or, in the alternative, to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 independent of the other leg. Similarly, each of the support legs 314, 316 of the second support pedestal 20 may be formed having a proximate end 316 rigidly attached to a cross pole 86 mounted in pivotal relation to the frame 40 or, in the alternative, to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 independent of the other leg.

[0082] To accommodate a table top 12 having a length that is smaller than the fixed or extendable length of the legs 312, 314 of the support pedestals 18, 20, the relative disposition of the distal ends 318 of each of the Support legs 312, 314 of the first support pedestal 18 are offset from the corresponding distal ends 318 of each of the support legs 312, 314 of the second support pedestal 20 disposed on an opposite side of the table top 12. The distal end 318 of the first support leg 312 of the first support pedestal 18 is offset in a lateral direction 320 from the second support leg 314 of the first support pedestal. Similarly, the distal end 318 of the first support leg 312 of the second support pedestal 20 is offset in a lateral direction 320 from the second Support leg 314 of the second support pedestal 20. This offset configuration enables the use of a smaller table top 12 and frame 40 because the support pedestals 18, 20 can include a length greater than the distance between the opposing ends of the table top 12, and yet still fold into a parallel configuration relative to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 without interference by the distal ends 318 of each of the support legs 312, 314 of the first and second support pedestals 18, 20.

[0083] The foregoing function can be structurally accomplished in a variety of ways. For example, both the proximal and distal ends 316, 318 of the support legs 312, 314 may be laterally offset so that the legs 312, 314 are always parallel to the frame 40, as shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, the proximal ends 316 may remain aligned in the folded position, and the legs 312, 314 may fold at an angle. This may be done by pivotally mounting the proximal ends 316 to the mounting surface 14 at an angle, or by mounting the cross pole 86 at a diagonal angle with respect to the frame 40 and table top 12.

[0084] As discussed above, the retaining assembly 36 generally provides structural support to the center of the table top 12 of the utility table 310. It will be further appreciated that with the distal ends 328, 334 attached contiguous each other in retention to the cross-brace member 36, forces applied to the table top 12 which would ordinarily be transferred through one of the support pivotal braces 324, 330, respectively, into the table top 12 causing it to bow, will substantially be nullified by the counter force provided by the opposing pivotal support brace 324, 330, respectively.

[0085] For example, the horizontal component of a force applied by a user at one end of the table top 12 will act upon the one of the support pedestals 18, 20 and, because the distal ends 328, 334 of the pivotal support braces 224, 330, respectively, are attached to the retaining assembly 36, an equal and opposite horizontal force component applied by the other pivotal support brace 18, 20 will cancel out the horizontal force component of the original force. Accordingly, although the support legs 212, 214 of the support pedestals 18, 20 are offset, the structural configuration of the present invention provides increased structural support to the table top 12 with fewer parts. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the retaining assembly 36 may be disposed in a variety of configurations which are consistent with the spirit and scope of the present invention so as to allow the pivotal support braces 324, 330 to supportably interrelate with each other. Moreover, the utility table 210 shown in FIG. 4 and discussed in detail hereinabove, may include support pedestals 18, 20 that comprise spaced-apart support legs which are offset from the corresponding support legs of the opposing support pedestal to provide the advantages of overlapping the legs, if desired.

[0086] Although certain structural elements and components, such as: (1) telescoping support legs operable to adjust the height of the table top 12 above an underlying surface; (2) a second cross-brace member 36bformed independent of a first cross-brace member 36a(see FIG. 4); (3) a plurality of kiss-offs 158 formed in the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (4) one or more mounting members 148 for supportably retaining the retaining assembly 36 in relation to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (5) one or more securing members 152 attached to the mounting surface 14 of the table top 12 for securing the Support pedestals 18, 20 in the collapsed position (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (6) one or more manifolds 154, 156 that assist in facilitating the blow molding process by providing for uniform dispersion of air along the length of the blow molded table top 12 (see FIGS. 2 and 3); (7) a bend formed in the opposing ends 211 of the support bar 212 (see FIG. 4); (8) beveled edges and/or a textured working surface 16 (see FIG. 1), and (9) a plurality of plateaus 219 and longitudinal trenches 220 may also be formed in the mounting surface 14 to further add stiffening and strength to the table top 12 (see FIG. 4) have been omitted from the embodiment of the utility table 310 illustrated in FIG. 5. It is contemplated herein that one or more of the foregoing structural features, however, may be incorporated into the design of the utility table 310, if desired.

[0087] Many of the problems associated with prior art portable folding utility tables are addressed by the teachings of the present invention. From the above discussion, it will be appreciated that the present invention provides a novel portable folding utility table having a center support assembly that is durable enough to withstand increased wear and tear, yet is light-weight enough to easily set up and take down. The present invention also provides a utility table with a center support retaining assembly that provides increased stability and structural integrity with an efficient design that allows the interrelation of the support pedestals to each other. The center Support retaining assembly of the utility table of the present invention is also cost effective to manufacture and does not compromise the structural integrity of the table top. The present invention also provides a portable folding utility table that includes a work surface disposed at a height that is comfortable to work at. Additionally, features are provided to improve the functionality of longer and smaller tables under various use and loading conditions.

[0088] It should be appreciated that the apparatus of the present invention is capable of being incorporated in the form of a variety of embodiments, only a few of which have been illustrated and described above. The invention may be embodied in other forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.