US20110048288A1

US20110048288A1 - Portable outdoor utility table

Info

Publication number: US20110048288A1
Application number: US12/870,431
Authority: US
Inventors: Scot E. Sheldon
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2009-08-27
Filing date: 2010-08-27
Publication date: 2011-03-03
Also published as: WO2011025952A1

Abstract

A portable outdoor utility table has stable folding supports that allow the surface to be easily transported to locations of various outdoor activities. The surface can be stabilized by support structures that contain two legs in a fixed arrangement that limits the independent movement of the legs. The portable outdoor surface can have with a water delivery system and/or one or more electrical receptacles. Additionally, the portable outdoor utility table can have a plurality of accessory receptacles for installing various accessories that allow a user to customize the surface for a particular use. Accessories may be provided for mounting, storage, waste disposal, lighting, cooking and/or to aid in specific tasks such as fish cleaning or oyster shucking.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a non-provisional of U.S. Provisional Appl. Ser. No. 61/237,430, filed 27 Aug. 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference and to which priority is claimed.

BACKGROUND

Without limiting the scope of the invention, its background is described in connection with existing outdoor equipment and uses thereof. Outdoor activities often involve clean up and/or preparation tasks for which a portable table would be advantageous. For example, hunting and fishing each involve cleaning and preparing the meat as soon as possible in order to preserve flavor. Camping involves meal preparation and clean up. Often, hunting, fishing, and camping sites may provide basic amenities such as running water but do not provide further amenities for the required activities. Therefore, a versatile outdoor utility table that may be easily transported to the locations of various outdoor activities is desirable.
Although attempts have been made in the past to provide portable outdoor tables, each effort has resulted in certain undesirable features. For instance, existing designs suffer from immobility, instability, lack of water supply, and lack of storage among other things. Furthermore, existing designs have been typically directed towards a single particular outdoor activity. Accordingly, it is the purpose of the present application to overcome the deficiencies of existing designs.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a portable outdoor utility table is provided that includes a table top that is bordered on two opposite sides by sidewalls that extend above the top side of the table top. The sidewalls form a boundary that prohibits water runoff along the sides of the table top. Optionally, the sidewalls may extend below the bottom side of the table top as well. The table top is supported at two opposite ends by support structures, each of which include two legs joined by a hip and are maintained in an extended position by a locking brace. Upon release of the locking brace, the supports may be folded up against the bottom of the table top for transport and storage. In one embodiment, the outdoor utility table is provided with a water delivery system that is affixed to the table and includes a spray nozzle connected to one end of a hose and a water supply connection at the opposite end of the hose.
In a further embodiment, a customizable outdoor preparation system includes a rigid preparation surface that includes upwardly extending sidewalls along at least two opposite edges of the surface. The surface additionally contains at least one drain along at least one adjacent edge of the surface. Formed in the surface are one or more accessory receptacles, which are configured to receive an accessory peg. Preferably, the peg fits snugly in the receptacle so that any lateral movement of the peg within the receptacle is minimized. Any one of a plurality of accessories, each containing at least one accessory peg, may be releasably secured to the surface by inserting the accessory peg or pegs into any of the surface's complementary accessory receptacles. In certain embodiments, the rigid surface may be supported by one of a variety of mounting accessories that are installed in one or more of the accessory receptacles.
In still another embodiment, a portable outdoor utility table includes a four-sided table top bordered on two opposing sides by sidewalls that extend above a top side of the table top. The table is supported at two opposite ends by pivoting support structures, each of which are secured between the opposing sidewalls and include two legs joined by a hip structure. The pivoting support structures can be folded for transportation and storage with the first pivoting structure folded against the underside of the table top and the second pivoting structure folded against the first pivoting structure. The table is provided with a water delivery system consisting of a spray nozzle and a water supply connection attached to opposite ends of a hose. Formed in the table top are one or more accessory receptacles that are configured to accept one or more accessory pegs belonging to a plurality of accessories. In certain embodiments, the table may contain a drain which is formed for example as a slot extending through the table top at an end of the table or as a sluice which channels water into a low point at an end of the table.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, including features and advantages, reference is now made to the detailed description of the invention along with the accompanying figures:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a portable outdoor utility table in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an end view of the portable outdoor utility table.

FIG. 3A is a top view of the portable outdoor utility table depicting an embodiment of an interchangeable accessory system.

FIG. 3B illustrates a locking mechanism to secure accessories to the table top.

FIGS. 3C-3F shows several arrangements for pegs and receptacles to secure accessories to the table top.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the portable outdoor utility table having the interchangeable accessory system.

FIG. 5 depicts an embodiment of a suitable support folding arrangement of the portable outdoor utility table.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a storage compartment accessory compatible with the outdoor utility table.

FIG. 7 is a side view of a fish cleaning accessory compatible with the outdoor utility table.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an oyster shucking accessory compatible with the outdoor utility table.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a waste disposal accessory compatible with the outdoor utility table.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the outdoor utility table illustrating one of the many possible arrangements of the accessories of FIGS. 6A-9.

FIGS. 10B-100 show alternative support arrangements for the outdoor utility table.

FIG. 11 is a side view of another portable outdoor utility table according to certain teachings of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a front view of the portable outdoor utility table.

FIG. 13 is a plan view of the portable outdoor utility table.

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the portable outdoor utility table.

FIG. 15 shows a table accessory with pegs inserted in holes in the table top.

FIG. 16 shows a table accessory with a traction surface for the table top.

FIGS. 17A-17B show table accessories with ribs for the table top's trough.

FIG. 18 shows a table accessory having a fixture for attaching to the table top.

FIG. 19 shows a clamp accessory for the table top.

FIG. 20 is a plan view of the utility table with various accessories disposed thereon.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed herein is a portable outdoor utility table that combines the stability of a stationary preparation surface with the convenience of a portable table. In certain embodiments, a portable outdoor preparation system is provided that is completely customizable to desired hunting, fishing and/or camping uses by virtue of a design that is able to accept various interchangeable attachments. While the making and using of various embodiments of the table are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated that the present disclosure provides many applicable inventive concepts, which can be employed in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the disclosed table and do not delimit the scope of the present disclosure.
Turning now to the figures, an outdoor utility table 10 in FIGS. 1 and 2 has a pivoting support 40 b attached at a tail end 25 of upper horizontal table top 20 and another pivoting support 40 a at a head end 24 of the table top 20. Both pivoting supports 40 a-b are movably fastened to the table top 20 in the depicted embodiment. Opposing sidewalls 26 a-b define an outer raised edge of the table top 20 along at least a portion of its length. The supports 40 a-b are movably fastened to the sidewalls 26 a-b, and both supports 40 a-b can be folded towards the underside 23 of the table top 20. When fully extended, however, the supports 40 a-b can be locked in place, such as for example by folding braces 45.
It is contemplated that multiple materials, including but not limited to wood, metal, and plastic, may be used to fabricate the outdoor utility table 10. In particular, the major structural components of the table can be manufactured out of plastic by molding techniques including but not limited to injection molding, compression molding, and thermoforming. Decorative aspects can be optionally provided by film insert molding wherein an image such as on film or fabric is inserted into the mold prior to plastic injection.
The opposing sidewalls 26 a-b extend above the table's upper surface 22 along at least some portion of the length of the table. As such, the sidewalls 26 a-b provide a raised border along the edges of the table. Such an arrangement directs water and waste towards the head end 23 and/or the tail end 25 of the table 10 when performing activities such as fish and game cleaning and food preparation.
One or both sidewalls 26 a-b can also contain a recessed electrical outlet 50 (FIG. 1). Outlet 50 may contain a watertight receptacle cover 52 to reduce the risk of electrical shock. It should be noted that the present design contemplates the optional usage of the table 10 by two people at a time. As such, a further electrical outlet 50 may be provided, such as for example on an opposite side of outdoor utility table 10.
As will be discussed in greater detail below, the table 10 can be used with a number of accessories, one or more of which may require electrical power. A single cable (not shown) can provide electrical power to the electrical outlets 50 and the individual accessories, thereby eliminating need for multiple extension cords.
The outdoor utility table 10 is capable of being easily stored and transported to a desired location. When the table 10 is not in use, the pivoting supports 40 a-b can be folded under the table top 20. As will be described in greater detail below in FIG. 5, the front pivoting support 40 a is first folded towards the underside 23 of the table top 20 after it is unlocked, such as by disengaging the appropriate braces 45, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1. The other pivoting support 40 b is then pivoted towards the underside of the table surface after it is unlocked as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1.
Because the table 10 can be used as a work surface and may be used by two people, the table 10 is preferably stable. In prior designs, work surface stability has suffered as portability increases. The portable table 10 derives its stability from a design of the pivoting supports 40 a-b. By connecting each pair of legs 42 with a hip 44 into a single pivoting support structure, independent leg movement is eliminated for increased stability.
In the particular embodiment depicted, each leg 42 additionally contains a brace 46 that is perpendicular to the plane of the leg 42. As depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5, brace 46 extends at least to the foot of each leg 42 to confer stability. Such an arrangement substantially increases table stability because the hip 44 and brace 46 of each pair of legs 42 help stabilize the legs 42 against bowing and guard the table 10 against vibration and rocking. In a particular embodiment, stability is further increased by fabricating the outdoor utility table 10 by injection molding or other types of molding such that the primary parts are the table top structure and the pivoting supports 40 a-b. In this way, the number of assembly points, which may contribute to instability, is minimized.
Optionally, as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, the outdoor utility table 10 may contain a height adjustable foot 48 on each leg 42 which lowers and raises the table top 20 as it is adjusted, for example by being screwed up into the table leg 42 and unscrewed respectively. Using the adjustable feet 48, the table top 20 may optionally be slightly sloped from the head end 24 to tail end 25 so that water and waste exit at the tail end 25 for activities in which such an arrangement is desirable. Alternatively, sloping may be accomplished by making the legs 42 on head support 40 a shorter so that so that water and waste exit at the head end 24.
The opposing sidewalls 26 a-b are joined to the table top 20. In the particular embodiment depicted, the table top 20 and sidewalls 26 a-b consist of a single structure in which the sidewalls 26 a-b extend both slightly above the table upper surface 22 and below the underside 23 of the table top 20. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the table top 20 may contain features that allow the outdoor utility table 10 to be customized with a variety of interchangeable accessories according to the desired use. For example, the table 10 may be quickly converted from a breakfast preparation table to a fish cleaning and preparation table.
FIG. 3A is a plan view of the horizontal table top 20 for the disclosed table 10. At least a portion of the table upper surface 22 can have a textured aspect 34 in order to increase the grip of the table upper surface 22. Also visible from the top view of the table 10 of FIG. 3A is a water delivery system. The outdoor utility table 10 has a hand held spray nozzle 57 for cleaning the table and directing waste towards an end 24/25 of the table 10 for activities such as fish and game cleaning. The water delivery system may also be useful for providing water for cooking or for cleaning the table accessories and other equipment. Drainage may be provided by drainage holes or slots, such as drainage slot 32, that allow water to pass through the table top 20 before reaching the head or tail end 23/25 of the table 10. Alternatively, drainage may be provided by a drain race or sluice manufactured as a sloping depression terminating at a drain end of the table top, as shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 13 and 20, for example.
As will be described in greater detail in reference to the table accessories, drainage slot 32 will be particularly useful when using the waste disposal accessory. The drainage slot 32 may also be covered if desired by the user. The spray nozzle 57 is preferably connected to a flexible hose 56. To the end of the flexible hose 56 opposite spray nozzle 57 is attached a connector 58 such that flexible hose 56 may be connected to a water supply. Although the present disclosure is not limited by the length of flexible hose 56, the hose 56 will typically range in length between 3 and 6 feet. When the spray nozzle 57 is not in use, the nozzle 57 can be inserted into nozzle compartment 36 and secured in place by closing nozzle compartment lid 37. Alternatively, the spray nozzle 57 can be secured by a clip without the requirement of a port hole for compartment 36 defined through the table surface.
In certain aspects, the outdoor utility table 10 is additionally equipped with a handle 28 for easily transporting the table 10 in its folded position. While the handle 28 is depicted near the tail end 25 of the table 10, it might also be located along the sidewall 26 a-b or head end 24. In addition, the table 10 can have multiple handles. The handle 28 may be molded or fabricated into or onto the surface of the table top 20 or may be attached by screws or other fasteners.
As shown in FIG. 3A, one or more accessory receptacles 30 can be located on the table surface. These accessory receptacles 30 may extend entirely or partially through the table top 20. As will be described in greater detail below, each of these receptacles 30 can accept an accessory peg or post (not shown) that is attached to accessories. The disclosed table 10 is not limited by the size, shape, design, or placement of the receptacles 30 and/or pegs as multiple designs of the accessory system are contemplated. For example, the accessory receptacles 30 and matching pegs may have varying cross-sectional shapes including, but not limited to, round, square, rectangular, or hexagonal.
As depicted in FIG. 3B, a peg 60 a of an accessory can have a locking mechanism 62 that allows the peg 60 to be inserted into a receptacle 30 of FIG. 3A from above and snap firmly against the underside 23 of the table top 20 as it passes through the receptacle 30. The locking mechanism 62 may have springs 64 that cause the locking mechanism 62 to expand on the underside 23 of the table top 20 preventing removal of the accessory. Release of accessory having this locked mechanism 62 can be accomplished by compressing springs 64 of locking mechanism 62 between the thumb and forefinger. The accessory may alternatively contain a release, which compresses the springs 64 of each of the pegs 60 a for the accessory without the need to compress the springs 64 for each peg 60 a. Other locking mechanisms are available such as for example, ball and socket pull apart locking mechanisms, tension rings, etc.
Alternatively as shown in FIG. 3C, a peg 60 b for an accessory can lack a locking mechanism and can instead insert in a receptacle 30 b partially defined in the table top 20. As shown in FIG. 3D, a peg 60 c can be sufficiently long that it extends in a deep receptacle 30 c through the table top 20 and can be dislodged from the table receptacle 30 c by an upward pull.
Alternatively as shown in FIG. 3E, the receptacle 30 d can accept a receptacle cover 31 a, such as cap or plug, to seal the receptacle 30 d when unused. Typically, the receptacle 30 d can be covered with the cover 31 a that can be removed to accommodate a particular accessory peg. The receptacle 30 d can be internally threaded, and the receptacle cover 31 a can be threaded into the receptacle 30 d.
Alternatively as shown in FIG. 3F, a receptacle cover 31 b can be mounted in a receptacle 30 e and biased by a spring. The cover 31 b can be displaced when an accessory peg 60 d is inserted into the receptacle 30 e. Yet, the cover 31 b can spring back into the receptacle 30 e when the accessory is removed.
A perspective view of the outdoor utility table 10 of FIGS. 1 through 3A is shown in FIG. 4. The table upper surface 22 can range from 2 to 3 feet wide and 3 to 5 feet long and can stand approximately 3 to 4 feet in height. Although depicted as generally rectangular, the table top 20 can have a variety of shapes including square, hexagonal, oval, etc. It should be noted that the above referenced dimensions allow ample space for two people to use the table while allowing each person access to any necessary equipment. It can also be seen that each user has convenient access to each of the table features and/or accessories. For instance, the placement of the electrical receptacles 50 provides access to each user and the flexible hose 56 allows each user convenient access to the spray nozzle 57.
As depicted in FIG. 4, drainage for the table top surface 22 can use a central depression that forms a slice or race 33 for directing water off the table top surface 22. As shown, the slice 33 can be utilized with a drainage slot 32 and can be a depression that runs to the end of the drain end of the table 10.
Because the table 10 can be used as a work surface for one or two people, the table 10 is designed so that its portability does not compromise stability. Here again, the table 10 depicted in FIGS. 1-5, it can be seen that both the pivoting supports 40 a-b each contain two legs 42. It can also be seen that a pivoting mechanism 41 extends through the sidewall 26 a-b and into the pivoting supports 40 a-b. The pivoting mechanism 41 may be installed on each side of a pivoting support 40 a-b and extend through the sidewall 26 a-b and only partially into the pivoting support 40 a-b. Alternatively, a single pivoting mechanism 41 may extend through the entire width of the pivoting support 40 a-b and through to the opposing sidewalls 26 a-b like an axle. Because the front pivoting support 40 a folds against the top's underside 23 and the back pivoting support 40 b folds against the front pivoting support 40 b, the pivoting mechanism 41 for the front pivoting support 40 a is located closer to the underside 23 than for the back pivoting support 40 b.
FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of one folding support arrangement for the outdoor utility table 10. In this view, the front pivoting support 40 a has been folded underneath the table 10 for transport or storage. The front pivoting support 40 a rests flat against the underside 23 of the table top 20. When folded, the perpendicular brace components 46 of the legs 42 of front pivoting support 40 a run parallel to the sidewalls 26 a-b with only a small gap between to accommodate the locking mechanism, such as braces 45. Alternatively, a different locking method may obviate the need for a gap between the front pivoting support's legs 42 and the sidewalls 26 a-b. For example, the pivoting mechanism 41 may contain a means for locking the support 40 a in an extended position.
The back pivoting support 40 b is folded under the table 10 by unlocking the locking mechanism (e.g., brace 45) and pivoting the support 40 b towards the underside 23 of the table 10. As can be appreciated, the perpendicular braces 46 of the back pivoting support 40 b rest parallel to and to the inside of the perpendicular braces 46 of the front pivoting support 40 a. Because the back pivoting support's brace components 46 are offset from the sidewalls 26 a-b to allow the pivoting supports 40 a-b to fold together, the back pivoting support 40 b contains a bracket tab 47 b on each leg 42 that accommodates for the offset and ensures that the braces 45 run parallel to the sidewalls 26 a-b. When the back pivoting support 40 b is folded underneath the table 10, the bracket tabs 47 b align with the tab recesses 47 a of the front pivoting support 40 a. Again, the need for bracket tabs and recesses 47 a-b may be obviated when an alternate locking mechanism is used. It can therefore be seen that when the pivoting supports 40 a-b are folded under the table 10, the supports 40 a-b fit neatly within the width of the sidewalls 26 a-b. In its folded position, the outdoor utility table 10 is very compact and can be stored or transported with ease.
A few of the many contemplated accessories will now be described beginning with a storage compartment accessory 70 depicted in FIGS. 6 and 10A. As can be seen in FIG. 10A, the storage compartment accessory 70 may be directly affixed to the table 10 in an essentially permanent way or may be removably attached via one or more accessory pegs 60 that fit into the accessory receptacles 30 along the table 10.
The storage compartment 70 is designed to span the width of the table and fit snugly between opposing sidewalls 26 a-b. Alternatively, the storage compartment 70 may be shorter and not extend across the width of the table top 20. If the receptacles 30 are placed equidistant from each other in both longitudinal and widthwise dimensions, the storage compartment 70 can be optionally placed parallel to a long axis of the table top 20. Although the storage compartment 70 may be installed anywhere along the length of the table 10, the compartment 70 is preferably installed near one tail end 25 of the table 10 in order to define a working surface separate from a small convenience surface for accessories such as drink holders.
As shown in FIG. 6, the storage compartment 70 has a top 72 that attaches to the storage compartment 70 by one or more hinges. The top 72 may be opened as indicated by arrow to allow for the storage of equipment such as knives, bags, and other utensils within storage compartment 70. In a particular embodiment, the top 72 may also be maintained in the closed position by utilizing a locking mechanism installed between the top 72 and the body of the storage compartment 70. The storage compartment top 72 contains a slot 74 through which items such as plastic storage bags or cleaning items may be dispensed. As an item is dispensed, the subsequent item will be partially pulled through the slot 74. This feature allows the desired items to be isolated from the working surface until they are needed.
FIG. 7 illustrates a fish cleaning accessory 75 having at least one clamp 76 that secures a fish to the accessory surface 77. As shown, for example, the fish cleaning accessory 75 contains one or more mounting pegs 60. The fish cleaning accessory 75 features a single cylindrical mounting peg 60. Because the fish cleaning accessory 75 is held in place only at the insertion point of the single cylindrical mounting peg 60 into a single receptacle 30, the user is free to rotate the fish cleaning accessory 75 about the peg 60 as indicated by arrow in order to locate the accessory 75 in the most comfortable position. Once the accessory 75 is located in the proper position, the user can clean and filet the fish held by clamp 76.
Turning now to FIG. 8, an oyster shucking accessory 80 is depicted. The oyster shucking accessory 80 contains one or more pegs 60 that can affix the accessory 80 to the table via receptacles 30. The user places an oyster shell into the channel 82 of the accessory 80. The channel 82 supports the oyster shell and allows the user to pry open the shell and retrieve the oyster.
Particularly useful in combination with accessories such as the fish cleaning accessory 75 and the oyster shucking accessory 80 is a waste disposal accessory 85 such as depicted in FIG. 9. Unlike most of the accessories, the waste disposal accessory 85 positions at the end of the table top 20. The waste disposal accessory 85 contains converging sidewalls 89 that preferably have ends for sitting flush against opposing sidewalls 26 a-b as shown in FIG. 10A. The converging sidewalls 89 direct water and waste towards the center at the end of the table top 20 as shown in FIG. 10A. The converging sidewalls 89 may slightly overlap the drainage slot 32 so that water is directed into the drainage slot 32. The waste products that pass over the drainage slot 32 can fall off the end of the table 10.
Affixed to the converging sidewalls 89 is the disposal container holder 86 which hangs over the end of the table top 20. A disposal container (not shown), such as a garbage bag, may be suspended between the prongs or arms 87 of the disposal container holder 86 to catch the waste products that pass over the drainage slot 32 and fall off the end of the table 10. As shown, slots are formed in each arm 87 of the disposal container holder 86. A top edge of the garbage bags is easily slipped into opposing slots of each arm 87 to securely hold garbage bags. The drainage slot 32 can be located slightly upstream of the front pivoting support 40 a such that the water is drained on the upstream side of the pivoting support 40 a and the disposal container 85 hangs on the opposite side of the pivoting support 40 a in a manner which reduces the water drainage contacting the outside of the disposal container.
FIG. 10A depicts one of the many possible arrangements of the accessories of FIGS. 6A-9 installed on the outdoor utility table 10. Further optional accessories are depicted including electric coffee pot 90 a, electric lamp 90 b and electric fillet knife 90 c, each including an accessory peg 60 for releasability attaching to the table top 20. Although the depicted electric accessories 90 a-c are shown with electric cords, certain of the accessories may alternatively be powered by rechargeable batteries depending on their voltage requirements.
A cooktop accessory 90 d is provided that is affixed to the table top 20 by the peg and receptacle mechanism. In one embodiment, the cooktop accessory 90 d is an induction cooktop that heats only the ferrous cooking vessels used in conjunction with it and otherwise delivers no residual heat to the table top 20.
Further examples of contemplated accessories include knife storage. The knife storage may be in the form of a knife block that is attached to the table surface by the peg and receptacle mechanism. Alternatively, the knife storage may be a magnetic strip that is affixed to the table. Further accessories include peg mountable receptacles such as for scalers, peelers, scissors, drinks, music players, etc. It should be noted that FIG. 10A does not illustrate a required placement of the depicted accessories but provides an example of one of many possible arrangements. Furthermore, the application is not intended to be limited by the described accessories. Rather, the described accessories were chosen to illustrate the wide variety of accessories that may be accommodated by the outdoor utility table 10.
As shown in FIG. 10A and elsewhere, the table top 20 may be provided with attached legs 42. Yet, various mounting devices and/or legs may be provided as accessories. In certain aspects, table legs can be fitted with pegs or posts that engage table top receptacles 30 from the underside 23 of the table top 20. Alternatively, table top 20 can be designed to be supported by one or more mounting accessories, such as for example a trailer hitch accessory that secures table top 20 to a vehicle trailer hitch or a bed mount accessory that allows table top 20 to be supported on a truck bed or other surface.
For example, FIG. 10B shows the table 10 having one support 40 a at the front edge 24 and another support 40 c at the back edge 25. The front support 40 a can have the one or more foldable legs 42 as described previously. The back support 40 b, however, includes a trailer hitch accessory 43 that may or may not be pivotably attached to the underside of the table top 20. Either way, the accessory 43 has a hitch receptacle that fits onto a conventional trailer hitch 49 a of a vehicle or the like. In this way, a user can unfold the supports 40 a/40 c from the table top 20 and secure the table top 20 behind a vehicle. The front support 40 a can hold the front of the table top 20 and may provide most of the stability. The hitch accessory 43 can support the back of the table top 20.
FIG. 10C shows a somewhat similar arrangement. Here, the table top 10 has one support 40 a at the front edge 24 and another support 40 d at the back edge 25. Again, the front support 40 a can include the one or more foldable legs as described previously. The back support 40 d, however, includes a bed mount accessory that allows table top 20 to be supported on a truck bed or other surface 49 b of a vehicle. This back support 40 d may or may not foldably attach to the table top 20. In any event, the accessory of back support 40 d can be shaped to fit the configuration of the particular surface on which it is to be used for support.
Another portable outdoor utility table 100 illustrated in FIGS. 11-14 has a table top 110 supported on its back or tail end by pivotable legs 160 a-b and on its front or head end by pivotable legs 170 a-b. As best shown on its top surface 112 in FIG. 12, the table top 110 defines sidewalls 120 a-b along lengthwise edges and defines sidewall 122 along head edge. A central portion 113 of the top surface 112 is raised so that a sluice or trough 124 is defined around the lengthwise and head edges of the table top 110. The sidewalls 120 a-b/122 can be the same height or different height than the raised central surface 113 of the table top 110.
This trough 124 serves to channel liquid running off the central raised portion 113 of the top surface 112 toward a drainage opening 126 at the head of the table top 110. The sidewalls 120 a-b/122 keep the liquid in the trough 124. Although not shown, the tail edge of the table top 110 can have a sidewall and can define a portion of the trough 124 to bring liquid to the drainage opening 126. As noted previously, the table top 110 is preferably inclined slightly with the tail end being higher than the head end to facilitate the flow of liquid to the drainage opening 126. Although one opening 126 is shown, the trough 124 can have additional openings at various places.
To support the table top 110 and as best shown in FIGS. 11 and 14, a pair of tail legs 160 a-b attach near back corners of the top's underside 114, and a pair of head legs 170 a-b attach near front corners of the top's underside 114. Each of these legs 160 a-b/170 a-b can be the same and can pivot inward to the top's underside 114. As shown in FIG. 14, the tail legs 160 a-b are disposed more toward the edges than the head legs 170 a-b. In this way, the legs 160 a-b/170 a-b fit side-by-side when the legs 160 a-b/170 a-b fold inward against the top's underside 114.
When the legs 160 a-b/170 a-b fold inward, the table top 110 can be carried using one or more handles. As shown in FIG. 14, for example, one of the longitudinal edges along the top's underside 114 has a handle 117. As shown, the handle 117 can include a retractable grip that springs into a nook 115 in the bottom edge when not used. Other types of handles could be used, including fixed and recessed handles.
As shown on the topside 112 in FIGS. 11-13, a storage container 150 fits along the tail edge of the table top 110. This container 150 defines a compartment 152 and can have a hinged cover 154. The container 150 can be permanently affixed to the table top 110 or can removably attach using pegs, fasteners, or the like.
Next to the container 150 at the edges, the table top 110 has holders 130 with various receptacles 132 defined therein. These holders 130 can be integral components of the table top 110 or can be removable accessories. In any event, the holders 130 can be used to hold any number of useful items including drinks, spices, tools, or the like in the various receptacles 132.
As also shown on the topside 112 in FIG. 13, various slots 116/118 are defined near the tail end. These slots 116/118 can pass entirely through the table top 110 or may only be partially defined in the top surface 112. In any event, for those extending through the top 110, the slots (e.g., 116) can be used to hold knives or other tools useful for use with the table 100.
As also shown in the side and front views of FIGS. 11-12, another accessory for the table 100 includes a basket 180. As best shown in FIG. 11, the basket 180 can have a wire frame 182 with a mesh 184 disposed thereon. The top of the basket 180 can be opened at the head edge of the table top 110 so that debris pulled off the table top 110 and/or passed through drainage opening 126 can be trapped in the basket 180. If desired, a trash bag (not shown) can be used to line the basket 180.
The back of the basket 180 attaches to the head legs 170 a-b so the basket 180 can be pivoted and collapsed against the underside 114 when the table 10 is stored or carried. To help support the basket 180 open, pivot arms 186 extend from the head legs 170 a-b to the front, top edge of the basket 180. The pivot arms 186 help keep the top of the basket 180 open when unfolded as shown.
As noted previously, a number of accessories can be used with the disclosed table 100. The accessories described previously include a storage compartment, a fish cleaning board, an oyster shucking block, a waste disposal holder, a drink holder, a cooktop, a coffee pot, a lamp, a fillet knife, and a knife block. At each corner, for example, the table top 110 has projections 140 with slots or receptacles 142 defined therein for any of the various accessories. These projections 140 preferably extend from the edges of the table top 110 to maintain more surface area for the table's work space, although this is not strictly necessary.
The slots or receptacles 142 can receive pegs or feet of any number of accessory items as disclosed herein. Although only four such projections 140 are shown, more could be provided along the edges of the table top 110. As shown in the side and front views of FIGS. 11-12, for example, one accessory that can fit into the slots 142, especially at the tail end of the top 110, can be an accessory bar 200 with hangers 202/204 or the like. A number of useful items can be hung on the accessory bar 200, including a water hose 210 with nozzle as shown in FIG. 12.
As described previously, some of the accessories disclosed herein include pegs that fit into various slots in the table 100. Accordingly, additional slots or receptacles can be defined elsewhere on the table top 110 similar to what has been previously described. For example, one or more slots (e.g., 144; FIG. 13) can be defined along the sidewalls 120 a-b/122. Also, one or more slots (e.g., 146; FIG. 13) can be defined on the raised surface 113.
The slots 142/144/146 can receive pegs for accessories. As shown in FIGS. 15 and 20, for example, a table accessory 220 a can have pegs 226 that insert in the slots 146 in the table top's surface 112. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 20, an accessory 220 a can have a peg to fit into the slot 144 on the sidewall 120 a.
Alternatively, the table top 110 can lack such slots and may only have the peg holes 142 in the projections 140 as shown in FIG. 13. Yet, various accessories can still be used on the table top 110. As shown in FIG. 16, an accessory 220 b, such as a work block, can have a textured underside 222 that engages the surface 112 of the top 110 so the accessory 220 b can be held in place during use. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 20, the table top 110 can have a textured surface 148 for the accessory 220 b.
As shown in FIGS. 17A and 20, an accessory 220 c can have a rib 224 along at least one edge. This rib 224 can be sized to fit into the trough 124 of the table top 110. The rib 224 on the accessory 220 c could alternatively be a thin plate or bar to fit into one of the slots (116/118; FIG. 13) to hold the accessory 220 c on the table top 110.
As shown in FIGS. 17B and 20, another accessory 220 d that is wide enough can have ribs 224 along two opposing edges so they can fit into opposing sides of the trough 124 along the lengthwise edges of the table top 110. As shown in FIGS. 18 and 20, an accessory 220 e can have one or more fixtures 230 for attaching in one of the slots 116/118 in the top 110. This fixture 230 can includes a bar or plate with fasteners at each end. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, a clamp 240 or other type of holder can affix in one of the slots 116/118 in the raised surface 113 to hold a desired work piece, such as a fish during cleaning.
Although the table top 10 of FIGS. 1-5 has been described with various features and the table top 100 of FIGS. 11-14 has been described with the same or additional features, it will be appreciated with the benefit of the present disclosure that the features associated with one table top can be mixed, matched, and replaced with those of the other table top, producing additional implementations.
From the preceding description, it can be seen that the disclosure provides an outdoor table, which not only improves upon existing designs by increasing stability, but also provides an opportunity for a user to customize the table to the user's specific needs by installing one or more desired interchangeable accessories. It can also be appreciated that the design of the outdoor utility table increases the ease of use of the table.
From the foregoing description, one skilled in the art can easily ascertain the essential characteristics of the disclosed table, and without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, can make various changes and modifications of the invention to adapt it to various usages and conditions. The invention may be embodied in other specific 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 to the claims that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A portable outdoor utility table, comprising:

a table top having end edges and side edges, the table top defining a drain at one of the end edges and having first sidewalls along the side edges, the first sidewalls directing material at least towards the one end edge;

a plurality of supports supporting the table top; and

a holder for holding a disposal container, the holder disposed at the one end edge of the table top and defining a passage receiving directed material from the table top.

2. The table of claim 1, wherein the table top defines an inclination from the one end edge toward the other end edge.

3. The table of claim 1, wherein the supports comprise legs attached to the table top and being pivotable against an underside of the table top.

4. The table of claim 1, wherein one or more of the supports comprise a height adjustable foot.

5. The table of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of receptacles formed in the table top, the receptacles receiving one or more accessories useable with the table.

6. The table of claim 1, further comprising a storage container disposed on the other end edge of the table top.

7. The table of claim 1, wherein the table top comprises a top surface having a trough formed with the sidewalls, the trough directing material to the drain.

8. The table of claim 1, wherein the holder comprises a frame attaching to the table top and supporting the disposal container thereon.

9. The table of claim 8, wherein the frame comprise arms extending from the one edge of the table top and forming sides of the passage defined by the holder.

10. The table of claim 8, wherein the frame comprises second sidewalls disposed on the table top at the one end edge and directing material to the passage of the holder.

11. The table of claim 1, further comprising a water delivery system affixed to the table and having a spray nozzle connected to a hose.

12. The table of claim 1, wherein at least one of the side edges comprises an electrical receptacle.

13. The table of claim 1, wherein the plurality of supports comprise:

at least one support supporting the one end edge of the table top; and

a trailer hitch accessory securing the other end edge of the table top to a vehicle trailer hitch.

14. The table of claim 1, wherein the plurality of supports comprise:

at least one support supporting the one end edge of the table top; and

a bed mount accessory supporting the other end edge of the table top on a surface of a vehicle.

15. A customizable outdoor preparation system, comprising:

a rigid surface having upwardly depending sidewalls on at least two sides and having at least one drain disposed on at least one end of the surface;

a plurality of receptacles formed in the rigid surface; and

one or more accessories having pegs releasably disposing in the receptacles of the rigid surface.

16. The system of claim 15, further comprising at least one support supporting the rigid surface.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein the at least one support comprises a trailer hitch accessory securing the rigid surface to a vehicle trailer hitch.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein the at least one support comprises a plurality of supports pivotably attached to the rigid surface and foldable against an underside of the rigid surface.

19. The system of claim 15, further comprising a water system affixed to the surface and having a spray nozzle connected to a hose.

20. The system of claim 15, wherein one or more of the pegs comprise a locking mechanism releasably locking in the receptacles.

21. The system of claim 15, wherein the surface defines at least one drain.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the at least one drain comprises a sluice or race formed as a depression in the table top.

23. The system of claim 21, wherein the at least one drain comprises one or more holes or slots formed through the table top.

24. The system of claim 15, wherein the one or more accessories comprise one or more of: a storage compartment, a fish cleaning board, an oyster shucking block, a waste disposal holder, a drink holder, a cooktop, a coffee pot, a lamp, a fillet knife, and a knife block.