US20110100270A1

US20110100270A1 - Aluminum table with flat upper surface

Info

Publication number: US20110100270A1
Application number: US12/767,975
Authority: US
Inventors: Tom Atkins
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Mity Lite Inc
Priority date: 2009-04-28
Filing date: 2010-04-27
Publication date: 2011-05-05

Abstract

A table with a metal top includes a leg assembly coupled to a table top with a single, continuous and sheet of metal forming substantially an entire uppermost surface of the table top that is flat, continuous and uninterrupted over substantially the entire uppermost surface. The sheet being folded down around a perimeter thereof forming substantially an entire outermost perimeter of the table top that is continuous and uninterrupted around substantially the entire outermost perimeter and extending downward and away from the uppermost surface.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

Priority is claimed to copending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos. 61/173,294 and 61/173,308, both filed Apr. 28, 2009, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to light-weight, aluminum tables. More particularly, the present invention relates to an aluminum table with a continuous, uninterrupted and flat upper surface.
2. Related Art
Folding tables are known in the art and typically include legs foldably coupled to a table top. Such table tops can be formed of plastic with wood or metal reinforcement. For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,271,338; 5,311,825 and 5,173,348; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0184419. Some plastic or wood tables have been proposed with corner pieces. For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,219,401; 5,173,348 and 5,947,037.
Sheet metal table tops, such as stainless steel, have been proposed. For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,684,966 and 2,905,334; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0260519.
Aluminum tables have been proposed that are formed of a plurality of aluminum slats formed of extruded, open channel aluminum slats bolted together to form the table top. Such slats typically present a picnic-type table top that includes creases or breaks between slats, and that are not flat. For example, see ALulite™ tables from Southern Aluminum.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop an aluminum table with a continuous, uninterrupted and flat upper surface. In addition, it has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a light-weight foldable aluminum table that is rigid.
The invention provides a table with a metal top including at least one leg assembly coupled to a table top. The table top has a single, continuous and sheet of metal forming substantially an entire uppermost surface of the table top that is flat, continuous and uninterrupted over substantially the entire uppermost surface. The sheet is folded down around a perimeter thereof forming substantially an entire outermost perimeter of the table top that is continuous and uninterrupted around substantially the entire outermost perimeter and extending downward and away from the uppermost surface. A perimeter frame is formed by a perimeter rail at least substantially circumscribing the perimeter of the sheet inside the outermost perimeter of the sheet and attached directly to an inner surface of the sheet at the perimeter.
In addition, the invention provides a foldable and portable table with an aluminum and rectangular top including a table top. The table top has a single, continuous sheet of aluminum forming substantially an entire uppermost surface of the table top that is flat, continuous and uninterrupted over substantially the entire uppermost surface. The sheet is folded down on opposite sides and opposite ends forming substantially an entire outermost perimeter of the table top that is continuous and uninterrupted around substantially the entire outermost perimeter and extending downward and away from the uppermost surface. The uppermost surface and outermost perimeter of the table top is interrupted only at corner voids cut-out in each corner of the sheet in the uppermost surface and an adjacent side and end at a respective corner. Plastic corner pieces are disposed in the corner voids in each corner of the sheet. The corner pieces have upper surfaces flush with an upper surface of the sheet and forming the entire uppermost surface of the table top along with the sheet. The corner pieces also have side and end surfaces flush with respective sides and ends of the sheet to form the entire outermost perimeter along with the sheet. Opposite side rails are affixed to an inner surface of the sheet with double-sided tape. The side rails are disposed inside the opposite sides of the sheet. The opposite side rails are coupled to corner pieces at opposite ends of the side rails with fingers of the corner pieces extending into the side rails. Opposite end rails are affixed to the inner surface of the sheet with double-sided tape. The end rails are disposed inside the opposite ends of the sheet. The opposite end rails are coupled to corner pieces at opposite ends of the end rails with fingers of the corner pieces extending into the end rails. At least two spaced-apart channel spars with upper channel lips are affixed to the inner surface of the sheet with double-sided tape. At least two leg assemblies are coupled to the table top and pivotal between an open position elevating the table top and a closed position against the table top. Each leg assembly includes: a pivot coupled to the at least two spaced-apart channel spars; at least one leg attached to the pivot; a brace coupled between the at least to spaced-apart channel spars and spaced-apart from the pivot; a linkage coupled between the brace and the at least one leg; and a cap disposed in an end of the pivot and having a size extending beyond the pivot in a direction away from the table top to abut to an uppermost surface of an adjacent stacked table.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the detailed description which follows, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which together illustrate, by way of example, features of the invention; and, wherein:

FIG. 1 a is a top perspective view of a table in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention with foldable leg assemblies shown extended and folded;

FIG. 1 b is a bottom perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 1 c is a side view of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 1 d is a bottom view of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 1 e is a partial bottom perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 1 f is a partial bottom perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 2 is a partial detailed top perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 3 is a partial detailed bottom perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 4 is a is a top perspective view of a corner piece of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 5 is a is a partial detail top perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 a shown with a sheet removed to show the corner piece and side and end rails;

FIG. 6 is a partial detailed top perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the corner piece of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a partial detailed bottom perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 a;

FIG. 9 is a partial detailed bottom perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 a shown with the corner piece removed;

FIG. 10 a is a top perspective view of another table in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention with foldable leg assemblies shown extended and folded;

FIG. 10 b is a side view of the table of FIG. 10 a;

FIG. 10 c is a bottom view of the table of FIG. 10 a;

FIG. 11 a is a partial perspective bottom view of the table of FIG. 10 a;

FIG. 11 b is a partial perspective bottom view of the table of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 a is a top perspective view of another table in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 b is a bottom perspective view of the table of 12 a;

FIG. 12 c is a bottom view of the table of 12 a;

FIG. 12 d is a side view of the table of 12 a;

FIG. 12 e is a cross-sectional bottom perspective view of the table of 12 a taken along line 12 a in FIG. 12 b;

FIG. 12 f is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the table of 12 a;

FIG. 13 a is a side view of another table in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 b is a bottom view of the table of FIG. 13 a; and

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of another table in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated, and specific language will be used herein to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENT(S)

Definitions

The term “rectangular” is used broadly herein to refer to a shape with straight sides that can be unequal in length, such as with four sides forming a traditional rectangle, or sides of equal length, such as with four sides forming a square. Longer sides can be sides, while shorter sides can be ends.
The phrase a “single, continuous sheet” is used herein to refer to a sheet of material that is a single sheet or piece, as opposed to a plurality of pieces coupled together. Thus, the single, continuous sheet is self integral or monolithic, without seams or joints. The phrase “flat, continuous and uninterrupted” is used herein to refer to a surface that has no protrusions, indentations or interruptions, such as seams, although the surface may have a surface treatment or finish, such as a buff. In addition, such a surface may have no protrusions or indentation on a macro-scale to the touch or unaided eye, although on a micro-scale the structure of the surface may have contours as viewed through a microscope or magnifying glass.
The phrase an “substantially an entire” is used herein to refer to slightly less than an entire amount, such as greater than 95%, 98% or even 99%.

DESCRIPTION

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 a-11 b, a table, indicated generally at 10, in an example implementation in accordance with the invention is shown. The table can be configured as a conference table, as discussed more fully below, that can be folded and stored and moved about as needed. Several such tables can be placed end to end to form a row; and several rows can be provided. The table can be long and narrow, or wide and shallow, to accommodate configurations with many rows. In addition, the table can provide a hard flat working surface, such as a metallic or aluminum working surface, while remaining light-weight for portability, and while providing sound deadening or resisting a “tinee” or tin-like sound. Furthermore, the table can have impact resistant corners or corners that absorb impact or corners that transfer impact forces through the table to avoid damage that from such impacts that might occur during folding, unfolding, stacking and/or moving or arranging the table.
The table 10 includes a table top 14 with one or more legs or leg assemblies 18 a and 18 b coupled to the table top and pivotal between an open position (shown by the leg assembly 18 a on the left had side of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b) elevating the table top, and a closed position (shown by the leg 18 b assembly on the right hand side of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b) against or towards the table top. Thus, the legs or leg assemblies can be pivotally coupled to the table top. As described above, several such tables can be configured as desired in the open position with the leg assemblies unfolded and the table top elevated. Such tables can be stacked for storage and/or transportation with the leg assemblies folded towards or against the table top. The tables can be stacked one on top of another with the tables in a horizontal orientation and the stack in a vertical configuration. Alternatively, the tables can be stacked laterally adjacent one another with the tables in a vertical orientation and the stack in a horizontal configuration.
The table top 14 includes a single, continuous sheet of metal or aluminum 22 forming substantially an entire uppermost surface 26, such as greater than 95%, 98% or even 99% of the uppermost surface. The uppermost surface of the table top is flat, continuous and uninterrupted over substantially the entire uppermost surface. The single, continuous sheet allows for the uppermost surface to be flat, continuous and uninterrupted. Thus, the uppermost surface is without seams formed by abutting and bolted aluminum extruded planks. In addition, the uppermost surface can be flat and smooth, without the protrusions and/or indentations deliberately formed in such aluminum extruded planks that extend the longitudinal length of such planks. Thus, the uppermost surface of the table top can be devoid of interruptions, creases, seams, protrusions, apertures, holes, contours, bends, etc. across the upper surface; providing an acceptable working surface. Thus, the flat and smooth surface can provide a writing surface upon which a sheet of paper can be placed and written upon with a writing instrument without the writing instrument penetrating the sheet of paper due to portions of the sheet of paper being elevated with cavities thereunder. The uppermost surface can have a surface treatment or finish associated with the metal or aluminum, such as anodized, glossed, powder coated, brushed, etc. while remaining flat and smooth. It will be appreciated that such surface finishes are substantially flat and smooth to the touch and unaided eye, without creating an unfit writing surface, although such micro-scale structural contours may be visible through a microscope or magnifying glass. It will also be appreciated that the flatness of the uppermost surface is flat as determined by the unaided eye, even though some inherent curvature may extend across the entire surface due to gravity and the imperfections of materials. The uppermost surface is flat, continuous and uninterrupted over substantially the entire uppermost surface, e.g. the entire surface except the corners, as described in greater detail below. Thus, the uppermost surface is flat, continuous and uninterrupted over substantially the entire uppermost surface including greater than 95%, 98% or even 99% thereof. Such an uppermost surface is obtained by using a single sheet of material, as opposed to slats, planks, etc. that can leave seems or exposed fasteners, such as bolt heads or welds. In one aspect, the sheet can form the entire uppermost surface of the table top.
The sheet 22 can be folded down on opposite sides 30 a and 30 b and opposite ends 34 a and 34 b to form substantially an entire outermost perimeter 38 of the table top, such as greater than 95%, 98% or even 99% thereof. The outermost perimeter is continuous around substantially the entire outermost perimeter. The opposite sides 30 a and 30 b can be longer than the opposite ends 34 a and 34 b to form a rectangular shaped table top with the long sides designated as sides and the short sides designated as ends for convenience. It will be appreciated that all sides of the table can be of equal length to form a square shaped table (which is intended to be described by the term rectangular as well). The opposite sides can also designate front and back sides 30 a and 30 b respectively, as described in greater detail below. In the case of a conference table that is relatively long and shallow, tables can be configured end to end to form a longer row with users seated at the front side. The opposite sides and ends of the sheet can extend downward (relative to the table in the open configuration and oriented horizontally) and away from the uppermost surface 26. The opposite sides and ends can be coupled to the uppermost surface by a bend or fold in the sheet, as opposed to an attachment by mechanical fasteners or welds. Thus, the opposite sides and ends and the uppermost surface can be formed of the single, continuous sheet. The folds in the sheet to form the sides and ends also can help maintain the flatness and rigidity of the table top by forming a beam with angled cross section. The outermost perimeter 38 is continuous around substantially the entire outermost perimeter including greater than 95%, 98% or even 99%. In one aspect, the sheet, or folded portion thereof, can form the entire outermost perimeter of the table top.
The uppermost surface 26 and the outermost perimeter 38 of the table top can be interrupted only at corner voids 42 (FIG. 9) that are cut-out of the sheet 22 in each corner. The corner voids can extend into the sheet in the uppermost surface, and in adjacent side and end at a respective corner. The corner voids can be formed by cutting the corner voids out of the single, continuous sheet of metal or aluminum, such as by stamping. The opposite sides and the opposite ends of the sheet can then be folded transverse to the rest of the sheet. Corner pieces 46 are disposed in the corner voids 42 in each corner of the sheet or table top. The corner pieces can be formed of a material different from the sheet, and from a material that is more resistant to scratching and impact, such as plastic. Alternatively, the corner pieces can be formed of metal, or even the same material as the sheet, such as aluminum.
The corner pieces 46 have upper surfaces 50 flush with the uppermost surface 26 of the sheet 22, and form the entire uppermost surface of the table top along with the sheet, as shown in FIG. 6. The corner pieces can have a step or notch 54 (FIG. 4) in a top thereof to receive the sheet. The corner pieces also have side and end surfaces 58 and 62 (FIGS. 2 and 3) flush with respective sides and ends of the sheet to form the entire outermost perimeter along with the sheet. Thus, while the sheet 22 forms substantially the entire uppermost surface 26 and outermost perimeter 38 (e.g. greater than 85%, 98% or even 99%), the corner pieces 46 together with the sheet can form the entire uppermost surface and outermost perimeter. In addition, the transition of the uppermost surface between the sheet and corner piece can be flat and flush, i.e. without one raised with respect to the other. Similarly, the transition of the perimeter between the sheet and the corner can also be flat and flush.
A perimeter frame 78 can be formed by a perimeter rail 66 and 70 at least substantially circumscribing the perimeter of the sheet 22 inside the outermost perimeter 38 of the sheet. The perimeter frame or rails can be attached directly to an inner surface of the sheet at the perimeter. A plurality of rails or support beams can extend between adjacent corner pieces, including opposite side rails 66 and opposite end rails 70, as shown in FIGS. 3, 5 and 6. The rails or beams can be straight hollow tubes, such as metal or aluminum, with a rectangular cross section and open opposite ends. The rails 66 and 70 can be coupled to corner pieces at opposite ends of the rails with fingers or tabs 74 (FIGS. 4 and 7) of the corner pieces extending into the side rails. The side and end rails 66 and 70 and the corner pieces 46 can form a perimeter frame 78 extending around a perimeter of the table top. The perimeter frame can support and strengthen the sheet. The side and end rails can be attached directly to the sheet at a perimeter of the sheet. The rails can be affixed to an inner surface of the sheet, such as with double-sided tape. The side and end rails can be affixed to one or both of the bottom surface of the sheet (opposite the uppermost surface) and the inner surface of the corresponding sides 30 a and 30 b or ends 34 a and 34 b. The side rails 66 can be disposed inside the opposite sides 30 a and 30 b of the sheet. Similarly, the end rails 70 can be disposed inside the opposite ends 34 a and 34 b of the sheet. The bottom of the sides 30 a and 30 b and ends 34 a and 34 b can terminate at a bottom of the rails with the rails providing a blunt bottom surface, as opposed to a sharper narrow surface of the edge of the sheet, to resist cuts.
The corner pieces 48 can be coupled to the table top 14 or sheet 22 thereof by the rails 66 and 70 which can be directly attached to the sheet, without the corner pieces being directly coupled to the sheet. Thus the sheet is separated or only indirectly coupled to the corner pieces. It will be appreciated that folding, unfolding, and/or moving the table results in inadvertent impact of the table with other object. For example, the table can be dropped or an end thereof can pivot or drop onto the floor. The corner pieces are likely to directly impact the other object or floor. Such an impact on the corner piece is absorbed and/or transmitted to the perimeter frame 78 and rails 66 and 70, and thus spread out through the table top without concentrating the impact force at the corner. In addition, separating the corner piece from the sheet helps separate the impact forces from the sheet to help maintain the flatness and integrity of the uppermost surface 26. As described above, the corner pieces can be configured to absorb or resist damage from impact, such as being formed of plastic. In addition, the corner pieces can be removably coupled to the rails, and thus can be replaceable in the event of catastrophic damage. Thus, the corner pieces can be sacrificial to wear and tear so that the entire table top does not need to be replaced.
An interior frame 98 can be formed by at least two spaced-apart channel spars 82 and the least two leg assemblies 18 a and 18 b coupled to and spanning the at least two spaced-apart channel spars. The interior frame can be inside the perimeter of the sheet with the at least two spaced-apart channel spars attached directly to the inner surface of the sheet inside of the perimeter of the sheet and the perimeter frame. One or more channels or spars can be attached to the underside of the sheet to help maintain the flatness and rigidity of the uppermost surface. For example, at least two spaced-apart channel spars 82 can be attached to sheet with upper channel lips 86 affixed to the inner surface of the sheet, such as with double-sided tape. Thus, the channel spars can be coupled directly to the sheet. The channel spars can be block U-shaped or tapered U-shape extrusions with lips or flanges on the upper arms of the U-shape. The channel spars 82 can be aligned longitudinally with the length of the table and can extend substantially the length of the table without reaching the ends thereof or the end rails of the perimeter frame. The channel spars 82 can also be positioned inside the perimeter of the sheet or the perimeter frame. The leg assemblies 18 a and 18 b can be attached to the table top or the channel spars of the table top. The leg assemblies can include pivots 90 coupled to the channel spars. The pivots can span the channel spars, and can span substantially the width or depth of the table, and can be pivotally coupled to the channel spars by clamps 94. The channel spars 82 and the leg assemblies or pivots 90 thereof can form an interior frame 98 inside a perimeter of the sheet and inside the perimeter frame 78. Both the perimeter frame 78 and the interior frame 98 can be coupled together by the sheet 22, but without being directly attached to one another. It will be appreciated that the sheet 22 has a certain amount or degree of flexibility. In addition, the double-sided tape allows a certain amount or degree of play or movement between the sheet and the frames. The flexibility or play between the frames and the sheet and between the perimeter and interior frames can allow the legs or leg assemblies to be self leveling so that all legs rest on the ground or floor, even if uneven or unlevel, to resist rocking of the table.
The leg assemblies can further include one or more legs 102 attached to the pivot 90. A foot 106 can be disposed on the opposite end of the legs, opposite the pivot. Such a foot can have a similar width to that of the table top to resist tipping. A brace or plate 110 can be coupled between the at least two spaced-apart channel spars 82 and spaced-apart from the pivot 90. The brace 110 can be an extrusion with outer flanges to attached to the channel spars and an inner flange. A linkage 114, as known in the art, can be coupled between the brace 110, or inner flange thereof, and the legs 102. The linkage can include to pivotal links and a locking member that can removably cover the pivot between the links to selectively maintain the legs in the open position.
As stated above, the table 10 can be configured as a conference table, i.e. can be long and narrow or shallow to accommodate numerous rows. In addition, the legs 102 or leg assemblies 18 a and 18 b can be off-center with respect to a longitudinal axis of the table. Similarly, the pair of channel spars 82 can also be off-center, with one located approximately in the center of the table, and with the other near an end (namely the back end 30 b) of the table top. Such a configuration positions the legs 102 and linkage 114 nearer a back of the table top, providing more leg room at the front of the table top and resisting user's kicking their knees into the legs or linkages. A channel segment 118 can be located at an end of the pivot 90 near the front side, opposite the channel spar at the back side, and between the pivot and the inside surface of the sheet. The channel segment can be similar to the channel spar, but without extending a length of the table. The channel segment 118 provides support between the sheet or table top and the pivot while reducing the weight of the table. Alternatively, a pair of channel segments can be located at a different opposite ends of the pivot with the at least two spaced-apart channel spars disposed between the pair of channel segments, as shown in FIGS. 10 a-11 b.
The legs of the leg assemblies can include a pair of arcuate legs. The arcuate shape of the legs can further increase leg room under the table and can provide increased stability between the pivot and foot. The legs can have opposite curvature with respect to one another between the proximal and distal ends of the legs.
As discussed above, the table can be folded and stacked with adjacent tables. The table or leg assemblies can further include a tubular, open ended pivot with a cap 122 disposed in an end of the pivot. The cap can have a size or diameter greater than the pivot and extending beyond the pivot in a direction away from the table top to abut to an uppermost surface of an adjacent stacked table. Such a cap can be formed of plastic or the like to resist marring or scratching the adjacent table top. Similarly, the feet can have end caps with a width or size greater than the cross-section of the feet to extend beyond the feet in a direction away from the table top to about to an uppermost surface of an adjacent stacked table.
An outermost perimeter edge between the outermost perimeter and the uppermost surface can be provided with a radius, chamfer or bevel.
As described above, the channel spars and rails can be coupled to the sheet with double-sided tape which allows a degree of flexibility or play. In addition, the double-sided tape also provides sound deadening. Alternatively, an adhesive can be sued, such as an aircraft grade adhesive for increased rigidity.
Referring to FIGS. 10 a-11 b, another table 10 b is shown that is similar in most respect to that described above, and which description is herein incorporated by reference. The table 10 b can be configured as a rectangular table for use with users sitting all around the table, as opposed to one side. Thus, the legs 102 b, leg assemblies 20, and channel pars 82 can be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the table. In addition, the table can have a pair of channel segments 118 located at a different opposite ends of the pivot 90 with the at least two spaced-apart channel spars 82 disposed between the pair of channel segments. In addition, the legs can be spaced apart and a brace disposed therebetween for coupling to the linkage.
Although the tables above have been described as having rectangular shapes, it will be appreciated that the tables can have other shapes, such as polygonal, hexagonal, octagonal, circular, semi-circular, etc. Referring to FIGS. 12 a-12 f, another table 10 c is shown that is similar in most respect to that described above, and which description is herein incorporated by reference. The table 10 c can be circular. The table top 14 c can include a single, continuous sheet 22 c of metal or aluminum forming the entire uppermost surface 26 c and the entire outermost perimeter 38 c. A pair of leg assemblies 21 can be coupled to the table top. A perimeter frame 78 c can be formed by a circular perimeter rail 66 c circumscribing the perimeter of the sheet 22 inside the outermost perimeter 38 c of the sheet. Additional transverse rails 77 c can intersect the perimeter rail 66 c. The perimeter frame or rail can be attached directly to an inner surface of the sheet at the perimeter. An interior frame 98 c can be formed by at least two spaced-apart channel spars 82 and the least two leg assemblies 21 coupled to and spanning the at least two spaced-apart channel spars. The interior frame can be inside the perimeter of the sheet with the at least two spaced-apart channel spars attached directly to the inner surface of the sheet inside of the perimeter of the sheet and the perimeter frame. The leg assemblies can have a bi-level brace extending between adjacent legs forming an indentation into which a leg of the opposite leg assembly can extend into in the folded configuration.
Referring to FIGS. 13 a-13 b, another table 10 d is shown that is similar in most respect to those described above, and which description is herein incorporated by reference. The table 10 d can be configured as a pedestal table with a circular table top 14 d supported on a pedestal 130. Thus, the pedestal can form a single or at least one leg or leg assembly of the table. The pedestal can include a vertical post or column 132. One or more cross-braces 134 can extend between the perimeter rail 66 d of the table top. The top of the pedestal or post 132 can be attached to the cross-brace(s) 134. One or more feet, such as a disc or plurality of radiating feet 106 d can be attached to the bottom of the pedestal or post 132. In the case of a smaller circular table, as shown, a single pedestal 130 can be used. It will be appreciated that one or more pedestals can be used with larger tables and/or longer rectangular tables. It will also be appreciated that a single pedestal can be used with a smaller rectangular table.
Referring to FIG. 14, another table 10 e is shown that is similar in most respect to those described above, and which description is herein incorporated by reference. The table 10 e can be configured as a pedestal table with a circular table top 14 e supported on a pedestal 130. The table top 14 e can have a perimeter frame 78 c can be formed by a circular perimeter rail 66 c circumscribing the perimeter of the sheet inside the outermost perimeter of the sheet. Additional transverse rails 77 c can intersect the perimeter rail 66 c. The perimeter frame or rail can be attached directly to an inner surface of the sheet at the perimeter. An interior frame 98 c can be formed by at least two spaced-apart channel spars 82 and a one or more cross-members 140 coupled to and spanning the at least two spaced-apart channel spars. The interior frame can be inside the perimeter of the sheet with the at least two spaced-apart channel spars attached directly to the inner surface of the sheet inside of the perimeter of the sheet and the perimeter frame. The pedestal can be coupled to the interior frame or cross-member(s) 140. The pedestal can form a single or at least one leg or leg assembly of the table.
While the forgoing examples are illustrative of the principles of the present invention in one or more particular applications, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications in form, usage and details of implementation can be made without the exercise of inventive faculty, and without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited, except as by the claims set forth below.

Claims

1. A foldable and portable table with an aluminum and rectangular top, comprising:

a) a table top comprising:

i) a single, continuous sheet of aluminum forming substantially an entire uppermost surface of the table top that is flat, continuous and uninterrupted over substantially the entire uppermost surface, and being folded down on opposite sides and opposite ends forming substantially an entire outermost perimeter of the table top that is continuous and uninterrupted around substantially the entire outermost perimeter and extending downward and away from the uppermost surface;

ii) the uppermost surface and outermost perimeter of the table top being interrupted only at corner voids cut-out in each corner of the sheet in the uppermost surface and an adjacent side and end at a respective corner;

iii) plastic corner pieces disposed in the corner voids in each corner of the sheet, the corner pieces having upper surfaces flush with an upper surface of the sheet and forming the entire uppermost surface of the table top along with the sheet, the corner pieces also having side and end surfaces flush with respective sides and ends of the sheet to form the entire outermost perimeter along with the sheet;

iv) opposite side rails affixed to an inner surface of the sheet with double-sided tape, and disposed inside the opposite sides of the sheet, and the opposite side rails coupled to corner pieces at opposite ends of the side rails with fingers of the corner pieces extending into the side rails;

v) opposite end rails affixed to the inner surface of the sheet with double-sided tape, and disposed inside the opposite ends of the sheet, and the opposite end rails coupled to corner pieces at opposite ends of the end rails with fingers of the corner pieces extending into the end rails; and

vi) at least two spaced-apart channel spars with upper channel lips affixed to the inner surface of the sheet with double-sided tape; and

b) at least two leg assemblies coupled to the table top and pivotal between an open position elevating the table top and a closed position against the table top, each leg assembly comprising:

i) a pivot coupled to the at least two spaced-apart channel spars;

ii) at least one leg attached to the pivot;

iii) a brace coupled between the at least to spaced-apart channel spars and spaced-apart from the pivot;

iv) a linkage coupled between the brace and the at least one leg; and

v) a cap disposed in an end of the pivot and having a size extending beyond the pivot in a direction away from the table top to abut to an uppermost surface of an adjacent stacked table.

2. A table in accordance with claim 1, wherein each leg assembly further comprises:

a) a pair of arcuate legs with a proximal end attached to the pivot;

b) a foot attached to a distal end of the pair of arcuate legs.

3. A table in accordance with claim 2, wherein the pair of arcuate legs is off-center with respect to a longitudinal access of the table.

4. A table in accordance with claim 3, wherein the table top further comprises:

channel segments each located at an end of each pivot between the pivot and the inside surface of the sheet with one of the at least two spaced-apart channel spars disposed at an opposite end of each pivot.

5. A table in accordance with claim 2, wherein the pair of arcuate legs each have an opposite curvature between the proximal and distal ends with respect to one another.

6. A table in accordance with claim 1, wherein the table top further comprises:

a pair of channel segments each located at a different opposite end of each pivot with the at least two spaced-apart channel spars disposed between the pair of channel segments.

7. A table in accordance with claim 1, wherein a perimeter frame is formed by the opposite side rails, the opposite end rails and the corner pieces extending around a perimeter of the table top with the opposite side rails and the opposite end rails attached directly to the sheet at a perimeter of the sheet; wherein an interior frame is formed by the at least two spaced-apart channel spars and the pivot of each of the at least two leg assemblies inside a perimeter of the sheet with the at least two spaced-apart channel spars attached directly to the inner surface of the sheet; and wherein both the perimeter frame and the interior frame are coupled together by the sheet without being directly attached to one another.

8. A method of manufacturing the table of claim 1, comprising:

a) cutting the corner voids out of the single, continuous sheet of aluminum; and

b) folding the opposite sides and the opposite ends of the sheet of aluminum transverse to a rest of the sheet of aluminum.

9. A foldable and portable table with a metal top, comprising:

a) a table top comprising:

i) a single, continuous sheet of metal forming substantially an entire uppermost surface of the table top that is flat, continuous and uninterrupted over substantially the entire uppermost surface, and being folded down on opposite sides and opposite ends forming substantially an entire outermost perimeter of the table top that is continuous and uninterrupted around substantially the entire outermost perimeter and extending downward and away from the uppermost surface;

iv) opposite side rails affixed to an inner surface of the sheet and disposed inside the opposite sides of the sheet, and the opposite side rails coupled to corner pieces at opposite ends of the side rails with fingers of the corner pieces extending into the side rails;

v) opposite end rails affixed to the inner surface of the sheet and disposed inside the opposite ends of the sheet, and the opposite end rails coupled to corner pieces at opposite ends of the end rails with fingers of the corner pieces extending into the end rails; and

vi) at least two spaced-apart channel spars with upper channel lips affixed to the inner surface of the sheet; and

b) at least two leg assemblies coupled to the table top and pivotal between an open position elevating the table top and a closed position against the table top,

10. A table in accordance with claim 9, wherein the opposite side rails, the opposite end rails, and the upper channel lips of the at least two spaced-apart channel spars are affixed to the inner surface of the sheet with double-sided tape.

11. A table in accordance with claim 9, wherein each leg assembly comprises:

a) a pivot coupled to the at least two spaced-apart channel spars;

b) at least one leg attached to the pivot;

c) a brace coupled between the at least to spaced-apart channel spars and spaced-apart from the pivot;

d) a linkage coupled between the brace and the at least one leg; and

e) a cap disposed in an end of the pivot and having a size extending beyond the pivot in a direction away from the table top to abut to an uppermost surface of an adjacent stacked table.

12. A table in accordance with claim 11, wherein each leg assembly further comprises:

a) a pair of arcuate legs with a proximal end attached to the pivot;

b) a foot attached to a distal end of the pair of arcuate legs.

13. A table in accordance with claim 12, wherein the pair of arcuate legs is off-center with respect to a longitudinal access of the table.

14. A table in accordance with claim 13, wherein the table top further comprises:

a) channel segments each located at an end of each pivot between the pivot and the inside surface of the sheet with one of the at least two spaced-apart channel spars disposed at an opposite end of each pivot.

15. A table in accordance with claim 12, wherein the pair of arcuate legs each have an opposite curvature between the proximal and distal ends with respect to one another.

16. A table in accordance with claim 9, wherein the table top further comprises:

17. A table in accordance with claim 9, wherein a perimeter frame is formed by the opposite side rails, the opposite end rails and the corner pieces extending around a perimeter of the table top with the opposite side rails and the opposite end rails attached directly to the sheet at a perimeter of the sheet; wherein an interior frame is formed by the at least two spaced-apart channel spars and the at least two leg assemblies inside a perimeter of the sheet with the at least two spaced-apart channel spars attached directly to the inner surface of the sheet; and wherein both the perimeter frame and the interior frame are coupled together by the sheet without being directly attached to one another.

18. A table in accordance with claim 9, wherein the uppermost surface and outermost perimeter of the table top is formed by:

19. A table with a metal top, comprising:

a) a table top comprising:

i) a single, continuous sheet of metal forming substantially an entire uppermost surface of the table top that is flat, continuous and uninterrupted over substantially the entire uppermost surface, and being folded down around a perimeter thereof forming substantially an entire outermost perimeter of the table top that is continuous and uninterrupted around substantially the entire outermost perimeter and extending downward and away from the uppermost surface; and

ii) a perimeter frame formed by a perimeter rail at least substantially circumscribing the perimeter of the sheet inside the outermost perimeter of the sheet and attached directly to an inner surface of the sheet at the perimeter; and

b) at least one leg assembly coupled to the table top.

20. A table in accordance with claim 19, wherein the table top further comprises:

an interior frame formed by at least two spaced-apart channel spars and at least one cross-member coupled to and spanning the at least two spaced-apart channel spars inside the perimeter of the sheet with the at least two spaced-apart channel spars attached directly to the inner surface of the sheet inside of the perimeter of the sheet and the perimeter frame.