Connection of a support to a molded plastic structure

Abstract

A blow molded plastic structure, such as a table top (10), can include an undercut (22). For example, the table top (10) can include a frame receiving section (60) in which a frame (20) connecting structure having an undercut (22) can be disposed. When the frame (20) is connected to the table top (10), a portion (62, 64) of the frame (20) can contact or engage the frame (20) connecting structure, such as the undercut (22). In an exemplary embodiment, a first side of the frame receiving section (60) can include a first frame (20) connecting section (62, 64) having an undercut (22), and a second side of the frame receiving section (60) can include a second frame (20) connecting section (62, 64) having an undercut (22). The first frame (20) connecting section (62, 64) having an undercut (22) can be disposed on an opposite surface from the second frame (20) connecting section (62, 64) having an undercut (22).

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application. The original application has the application number 202080001709.7, the application date is February 1, 2020, and the invention title is "Connection between support member and molded plastic structure". Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to structures at least partially constructed of blow-molded plastic, and more specifically to blow-molded plastic structures including undercuts. Background Technology

[0004] Blow molding is a manufacturing process that creates hollow plastic parts. The blow molding process typically begins with a hollow tube of molten plastic, often called a preform. The preform is clamped into a mold, and air is blown into it. The air pressure propels the plastic into the mold's face, shaping it to fit the mold. Once the plastic has cooled, the mold can be opened, and the part can be ejected from it.

[0005] More specifically, a conventional blow molding machine comprises a mold with two halves, and the blow molding process begins with the two spaced-apart halves. A preform or tube of molten plastic is extruded between the halves, which are then moved horizontally toward each other. Compressed air, typically between 60 psi and 150 psi, is introduced into the preform positioned in the mold. The preform expands to contact the inner surface of the mold, and the plastic is molded into the desired shape. Afterward, the air pressure is reduced and the halves are separated to allow the blow-molded plastic article to be removed.

[0006] Blow molding is commonly used to produce hollow plastic structures, such as bottles and containers. It allows for the economical, high-volume production of hollow plastic objects. Furthermore, it allows for the rapid production of thin-walled objects. Because blow-molded structures consist of hollow internal sections, and each half-mold forms its own wall shape, a wide variety of structural types can be constructed using blow molding.

[0007] However, the types and structures of blow-molded plastic objects that can be formed may be limited by the hollow internal sections. Because compressed air is required during the molding process to stretch and propel the plastic to the mold surface, the types and structures of blow-molded plastic objects that can be formed may also be limited. Furthermore, as the size of the manufactured object increases, the plastic may need to be stretched more and subjected to greater stress during the molding process, making it difficult to control the outer wall thickness of the blow-molded plastic structure. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for blow-molded plastic structures, processes for manufacturing blow-molded plastic structures, and / or methods for manufacturing blow-molded plastic structures to eliminate or reduce the aforementioned disadvantages and problems.

[0009] One aspect is a structure that can be constructed from plastic. For example, the structure can be built from molded plastic. If desired, the structure can be built from blow-molded plastic.

[0010] Another aspect is a structure that can be constructed from blow-molded plastic. Blow-molded plastic structures can be pieces of furniture (such as tables or chairs), water sports equipment (such as kayaks or paddleboards), containers (such as bottles or coolers), shells (such as canopies or deck boxes), etc. The structure can also be a component or part of a structure, such as a tabletop, chair seat, chair back, kayak component, paddleboard component, cooler component, canopy component, playground equipment component, etc. Furthermore, the structure can be other suitable objects, articles, constructions, etc., such as panels, sections, segments, etc.

[0011] Another aspect is the method or process for manufacturing or producing blow-molded plastic structures. This method may include forming a blow-molded plastic structure having one or more features or properties. The manufacturing or production process may include forming a blow-molded plastic structure having one or more features or properties.

[0012] Another aspect is a blow-molded plastic structure having an undercut formed during the blow molding process. The undercut may include a cantilever portion with no material on its underside. The undercut can be formed during the molding process without cutting or removing any material. Therefore, for example, the undercut can be formed during the molding process without cutting or removing any material.

[0013] Another aspect is a blow-molded plastic structure having an undercut formed during a molding process. The undercut can be formed during the blow molding process using one or more tools, and the undercut may include a cantilever structure and a protrusion or receiving section disposed below the cantilever portion. Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment, the undercut may include a protrusion or outcrop and an open space below the protrusion. Because the open space can be formed during the molding process, it is not necessary to cut or remove material.

[0014] On the other hand, there is a blow-molded plastic structure with an undercut, which is formed during the molding process by a movable tool. The tool may allow the undercut to be formed with sharp edges and / or acute angles. For example, the blow-molded plastic structure may include an undercut having a surface set at an angle of about 60 degrees (60°) or greater, about 65 degrees (65°) or greater, about 70 degrees (70°) or greater, about 75 degrees (75°) or greater, about 80 degrees (80°) or greater, about 85 degrees (85°) or greater, or about 90 degrees (90°) or greater relative to the blow-molded plastic structure. For example, a portion of the undercut may be positioned at a sharp or acute angle relative to the surface of the blow-molded plastic structure, and the acute angle may be an angle of about 60 degrees (60°) or greater, about 65 degrees (65°) or greater, about 70 degrees (70°) or greater, about 75 degrees (75°) or greater, about 80 degrees (80°) or greater, about 85 degrees (85°) or greater, or about 90 degrees (90°) or greater. The undercut may be formed in such a way that it does not substantially deform or twist when the structure is removed from the mold during the blow molding process. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the undercut may be formed during the blow molding process, the undercut may be formed with an acute angle, the undercut may be formed without removing any material, and the undercut does not substantially deform or twist when the structure is removed from the mold during the blow molding process.

[0015] On the other hand, there is the undercut, which can be formed during the blow molding process, and the undercut can be formed during the molding process by a movable tool. For example, a structure can be formed during the blow molding process, and the structure may include one or more undercuts formed during the blow molding process. The undercut can be formed by a tool that can move during the molding process, and the undercut may include one or more acute angles. Furthermore, the undercut can be formed without removing material, and the undercut does not deform significantly when the structure is removed from the mold. Advantageously, acute angles can provide sharp corners, steep transitions, clearly defined overhangs, clearly defined protrusions or recesses arranged below the overhangs, etc. Undercuts can facilitate attaching articles or objects to the blow-molded plastic structure.

[0016] On the other hand, there is a blow-molded plastic structure that may include an undercut formed during the blow molding process. The undercut may be disposed in the surface of the blow-molded plastic structure, and the surface of the blow-molded plastic structure may include generally planar, flat, or horizontal sections. The undercut may include a protrusion extending from the generally flat section, with a protrusion or recess disposed below the protrusion. For example, the undercut may be disposed in the wall or surface of the blow-molded plastic structure. The undercut may include a protrusion extending outward relative to the generally flat surface of the blow-molded plastic structure, and a recess may be disposed below the protrusion. The lower surface of the protrusion may be set at a sharp angle or acute angle relative to the generally flat section of the blow-molded plastic structure. The lower surface of the protrusion may also be set at a sharp angle or acute angle relative to the distal end of the protrusion.

[0017] Another aspect is a blow-molded plastic structure that may include generally flat walls or surfaces with undercuts. The blow-molded plastic structure may also include one or more generally flat walls or surfaces, and one or more undercuts may be formed in the walls or surfaces. For example, a first undercut may be provided on a first wall or surface and a second undercut may be provided on a second wall or surface. The walls or surfaces may have a generally parallel, symmetrical, or similar configuration. For example, depending on the intended use of the structure, the undercuts may be generally aligned or spaced apart.

[0018] Advantageously, undercutting allows objects to be securely attached to a blow-molded plastic structure. For example, undercutting allows parts or components to be securely attached to a blow-molded plastic structure. Undercutting can also facilitate attaching another object or article to a blow-molded plastic structure. For example, undercutting can facilitate attaching a frame to a blow-molded plastic structure. In particular, undercutting can facilitate attaching a frame to a blow-molded plastic tabletop.

[0019] More specifically, the undercut can advantageously allow another article of article to be securely attached to the blow-molded plastic structure. For example, the undercut can join a portion of a frame, and the engagement of the frame with the undercut can contribute to establishing a strong connection. Furthermore, the engagement of the frame with the undercut can help prevent accidental removal of the frame. Additionally, the undercut can be angled, and depending on the angle of the undercut, the force applied to the frame can result in a more secure connection between the frame and the blow-molded plastic structure. Those skilled in the art will recognize, upon reviewing this disclosure, that the undercut can have different shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements, for example, depending on the intended use of the structure. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize, upon reviewing this disclosure, that the angle of the undercut can be a sharp or acute angle, and the undercut can include one or more angled surfaces.

[0020] On the other hand, there is a blow-molded plastic structure (such as a tabletop) with undercuts disposed in the lower surface or lower segment of the tabletop. The undercuts allow a frame to be securely attached to the tabletop. For example, the tabletop may include a frame receiving segment, and the frame receiving segment may include one or more undercuts. In an exemplary embodiment, the frame receiving segment may include one or more surfaces, and one or more undercuts may be disposed in these surfaces. For example, a first undercut may be disposed in a first surface of the frame receiving segment, and a second undercut may be disposed in a second surface of the frame receiving segment. The size and configuration of the undercuts may be designed to allow insertion of a frame into the frame receiving segment, and then movement of the frame to at least partially engage the frame and the undercuts. Engagement of the frame with the undercuts can contribute to a secure attachment between the frame and the tabletop. More specifically, the frame may include one or more cutouts, and the frame may be disposed in the frame receiving segment. In an exemplary embodiment, the cutouts may allow insertion of a frame into the frame receiving segment. The frame can then be moved to engage the frame and the undercuts. For example, one or more segments of the frame may engage one or more undercuts, or one or more segments of one or more undercuts. Furthermore, the frame may include one or more engagement surfaces, and the engagement surfaces may engage one or more cutouts. The frame may also include one or more joint segments, the size and configuration of which can be designed to be located within the receiving segment, which facilitates the attachment of the frame to the tabletop. When the joint segments are to be joined or located within the receiving segment, this helps prevent accidental movement of the frame relative to the tabletop.

[0021] On the other hand, it can include undercut blow-molded structures, such as tabletops, which are integrally molded into a single, one-piece structural component during the molding process. A single, one-piece blow-molded plastic structure with an undercut allows the frame to be securely attached to the tabletop. Those skilled in the art, upon reviewing this disclosure, will recognize that, for example, depending on the intended use of the table, the blow-molded plastic tabletop and / or frame can have a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements. Furthermore, those skilled in the art, upon reviewing this disclosure, will recognize that undercut blow-molded plastic tabletops can have a variety of different features, aspects, characteristics, etc.

[0022] Another aspect is a blow-molded plastic structure (such as a tabletop) that may include a receiving section with undercuts. The receiving section can be sized and configured to receive a structure such as a frame, and the undercuts facilitate attaching this frame to the tabletop. The frame receiving section may be disposed in the lower surface of the tabletop, and a frame receiving section with one or more undercuts allows for a secure attachment of the frame to the tabletop. A frame receiving section with one or more undercuts eliminates the need for fasteners used to attach the frame to the tabletop. Advantageously, eliminating or reducing the need for fasteners used to attach the frame to the tabletop can reduce costs and speed up the manufacturing process.

[0023] Another aspect is a blow-molded plastic structure (such as a tabletop) that may include an undercut at an angle. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the undercut may include a surface that is generally parallel to or at an angle to the lower surface and / or the upper surface of the tabletop. In another exemplary embodiment, the undercut may include a surface that is generally perpendicular to or at an angle to the tabletop surface. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the undercut may include a surface at an angle to a generally flat surface of the tabletop. For example, the undercut may include a surface that is generally perpendicular to a generally flat surface of the tabletop.

[0024] On the other hand, there is a blow-molded plastic structure (such as a tabletop) that may include an undercut having a generally flat surface. For example, the lower portion of the undercut may have a generally flat surface. The generally flat surface of the undercut may be configured to be generally parallel to or at an angle to the lower surface and / or the upper surface of the tabletop. The generally flat surface of the undercut may also be configured to be generally perpendicular to the surface of the tabletop or at an angle to the surface of the tabletop. The generally flat surface of the undercut may also be configured to be generally perpendicular to the generally flat surface of the tabletop.

[0025] On the other hand, there is a blow-molded plastic structure that may include an undercut having a surface that is substantially perpendicular to or at an angle to the wall of the blow-molded plastic structure. For example, the surface of the undercut may be at an acute angle to the wall. The undercut may also include a surface at an angle of about 90 degrees (90°) or greater, about 80 degrees (80°) or greater, about 70 degrees (70°) or greater, about 60 degrees (60°) or greater, or about 50 degrees (50°) or greater relative to the wall. For example, the angle of the undercut surface may be measured relative to the wall of the blow-molded plastic structure and the lower section of the undercut.

[0026] On the other hand, there is a blow-molded plastic structure that may include an undercut with an angled surface. The angled surface of the undercut can facilitate the secure bonding of another object to the blow-molded plastic structure. For example, the undercut may include an angled surface that is positioned upwards at an angle of about two degrees (2°) or greater, about four degrees (4°) or greater, about six degrees (6°) or greater, about eight degrees (8°) or greater, or about ten degrees (10°) or greater. It should be recognized that the angle of the undercut surface may affect the ease with which an object can be attached to or detached from the structure. It should also be recognized that, for example, depending on the intended use of the structure, the angle of the undercut surface may be set at other suitable angles. It should also be recognized that, for example, depending on the intended use of the structure, the undercut may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements.

[0027] Another aspect is a blow-molded plastic structure that may include an undercut having a surface set at an acute angle. For example, the undercut may include sharp or steep edges, corners, or transitions. Transitions may be set at an angle of about 90 degrees (90°) or greater, about 80 degrees (80°) or greater, about 70 degrees (70°) or greater, about 60 degrees (60°) or greater, or about 50 degrees (50°) or greater. The sharp edges or transitions of the undercut can facilitate attaching another object to the blow-molded plastic structure. Furthermore, the undercut may have a relatively large receiving section positioned below the overhang. The undercut may also provide a relatively large contact or engagement area, which can further facilitate attaching another object to the blow-molded plastic structure. A large receiving section, a large surface area, and / or sharp angles or transitions can help securely attach another object to the blow-molded plastic structure.

[0028] Another method is to form an undercut in a blow-molded plastic structure. This method may include forming a protrusion with an undercut in the surface of the blow-molded plastic structure. For example, a first undercut may be provided on a first side of a frame receiving section, and a second undercut may be provided on a second side of the frame receiving section. The undercut can be formed using a tool having a base and one or more fingers. The fingers can move or slide relative to the base, and the base may include a guide that helps control the movement of the fingers. The fingers may be angled, and the guide may include a generally wedge-shaped section disposed between the fingers. The distal ends of the fingers may include outwardly extending sections, and these outwardly extending sections can be used to form the undercut. In the molding position, the distal ends of the fingers may be positioned at a first distance from the base of the tool, and the outermost sections of the outwardly extending sections of the fingers may be spaced apart by the first distance. When forming the blow-molded plastic structure, the plastic may surround or encircle the ends of the fingers and / or a portion of the guide, such as a wedge-shaped structure. After the inwardly extending segments with undercuts are formed, the blow-molded plastic structure can be removed from the mold face, and the fingers can move inwards relative to the mold face at a certain angle. When the blow-molded plastic structure has been removed a certain distance from the mold face, the distal end of the fingers can be set to be a second distance from the base of the tool, and the outermost segments of the outwardly extending segments of the fingers can be spaced apart by the second distance. When the spacing between the outermost segments of the outwardly extending segments of the fingers is less than the spacing between the innermost segments of the undercuts, the blow-molded plastic structure can be removed or released from the mold.

[0029] Another method is to manufacture an undercut in a blow-molded plastic structure. This method may include placing a tool within a portion of a mold, and the tool may be used to form the undercut. The method may also include forming a preform and closing the mold surrounding the preform. A gas, such as compressed air, may be introduced into the preform. The undercut can be formed by the tool, and the molded structure with the undercut can then be released or removed from the mold.

[0030] Another aspect is a tool that can be used to create undercuts in blow-molded plastic structures. For example, the tool can form an inwardly extending segment with an undercut. The tool may include a base, and the surface of the base can aid in forming a part of the blow-molded plastic structure. For example, the upper surface of the base may be generally aligned with a part of the mold, and the upper surface of the base can aid in forming a part of the blow-molded plastic structure. The base may include a first guide, such as a channel or opening, and a first finger may be at least partially disposed in the first guide. The base may also include a second guide, such as a channel or opening, and a second finger may be at least partially disposed in the second guide. The first guide can aid in controlling the movement of the first finger relative to the base, and the second guide can aid in controlling the movement of the second finger relative to the base. The base may include an inwardly extending protrusion, which may also be referred to as a guide, and the inwardly extending protrusion may have a generally wedge-shaped configuration. The size and configuration of the guide can be designed to allow movement of the finger relative to the base between one or more positions. For example, the size and configuration of the guide can be designed to allow the finger to be positioned in a molding position and a release position. When the finger is in the molding position, the distal end of the finger can be positioned at a first distance from the base, and the distal end of the finger may include an outwardly extending segment. In the molding position, the outer segments of the outwardly extending segment can be spaced apart, and the outwardly extending segment can be used to form at least a portion of the undercut. When the finger is in the release position, the tip of the finger can be spaced apart from the base of the mold by a second distance, and the outermost segment of the outwardly extending segment of the finger can be spaced apart by a second distance. When the spacing between the outermost segments of the outwardly extending segment of the finger is less than the spacing between the innermost segments of the inwardly extending segment of the blow-molded plastic structure, the structure can be removed or released from the tool.

[0031] Another aspect is a method for manufacturing a blow-molded plastic structure, which may include placing a tool in a portion of a mold for the blow-molded plastic structure, forming a preform of molten plastic, placing the preform of molten plastic in the mold, closing the mold surrounding the preform of molten plastic, inflating the preform, and using the tool to produce an inwardly extending segment with an undercut. The method may include releasing the inwardly extending segment with an undercut from the tool by moving the tool from a molding position to a release position. The method may include simultaneously releasing the molded plastic structure from the mold and releasing the inwardly extending segment with an undercut from the tool. The method may include producing a receiving segment disposed between the upper surface of the undercut and the upper surface of the inwardly extending segment. The method may include producing an edge of the undercut, and the edge may be set at an acute angle relative to the surface of the undercut, the acute angle being approximately 90 degrees (90°), approximately 85 degrees (85°), approximately 80 degrees (80°), approximately 75 degrees (75°), approximately 70 degrees (70°), or less than approximately 70 degrees (70°).

[0032] On the other hand, there is a tool for producing undercuts in blow-molded plastic structures constructed using a blow molding process. This tool may include a base; a first guide at least partially disposed in the base; a second guide at least partially disposed in the base; a first finger at least partially disposed in the first guide, movable relative to the base between a molding position and a release position, the first finger including an elongated body and an outwardly extending portion; and a second finger at least partially disposed in the second guide, movable relative to the base between a molding position and a release position, the second finger including an elongated body and an outwardly extending portion. When the first and second fingers are in the molding position, the upper surfaces of the outwardly extending portions of the first and second fingers are substantially aligned in the same plane; and when the first and second fingers are in the release position, the upper surfaces of the outwardly extending portions of the first and second fingers are substantially aligned in the same plane. When the first and second fingers are in the molding position, the upper surfaces of the outwardly extending portions of the first and second fingers can be positioned at a first distance from the base; and when the first and second fingers are in the release position, the upper surfaces of the outwardly extending portions of the first and second fingers can be positioned at a second distance from the base, the second distance being greater than the first distance. The first finger can move along a first axis angled relative to the base, and the second finger can move along a second axis angled relative to the base, the angle of the first axis relative to the base being approximately the same as the angle of the second axis relative to the base. When the first finger and the second finger are in the molding position, the outward extension of the first finger can be configured to be a first distance away from the outward extension of the second finger; when the first finger and the second finger are in the release position, the outward extension of the first finger can be configured to be a second distance away from the outward extension of the second finger; and the second distance can be less than the first distance to allow the outward extensions of the first finger and the second finger to be removed from the undercut formed in the blow-molded plastic structure.

[0033] On the other hand, there is a table that may include a blow-molded plastic tabletop. The blow-molded plastic tabletop can be constructed using a blow molding process, and the tabletop may include an upper surface, a lower surface, a frame receiving section disposed in the lower surface of the tabletop, a first frame connecting structure with undercut disposed in a first section of the frame receiving section, and a second frame connecting structure with undercut disposed in a second section of the frame receiving section. The frame can be attached to the table, the first section of the frame can contact the first frame connecting structure, and the second section of the frame can contact the second frame connecting structure. The table may include one or more support members, the size and configuration of which can be designed to support the tabletop above the surface.

[0034] On the other hand, there is a blow-molded plastic tabletop, which may include an upper surface, a lower surface, a frame receiving section disposed in the lower surface of the tabletop, a first frame connecting structure with an undercut disposed in a first section of the frame receiving section, and a second frame connecting structure with an undercut disposed in a second section of the frame receiving section. The frame can be attached to the tabletop. For example, the first section of the frame may engage the undercut lower surface of the first frame connecting structure, and the second section of the frame may engage the undercut lower surface of the second frame connecting structure. The first frame connecting structure may be disposed on a first side of the frame receiving section, and the second frame connecting structure may be disposed on a second side of the frame receiving section. The first frame connecting structure may be an outwardly extending structure with an undercut. The second frame connecting structure may be an inwardly extending structure with an undercut. The frame can be attached to the tabletop without using any fasteners. The tabletop, including the upper surface, lower surface, frame receiving section, first frame connecting structure with an undercut, and second frame connecting structure with an undercut, can be integrally molded in a blow molding process as a single, one-piece component. A portion of the frame can be inserted into a frame receiving section, and the frame can then move within the frame receiving section to engage a first portion of the frame with an undercut of a first frame connection structure and a second portion of the frame with an undercut of a second frame connection structure. The frame may include cutouts that allow insertion of the frame into the frame receiving section. The frame may include one or more outwardly extending tabs, and the tabletop may include one or more receiving sections, with tabs disposed within the receiving sections when the frame is attached to the tabletop. It will be appreciated upon review of this disclosure that a blow-molded tabletop may include any suitable number of frame connection structures and / or undercuts. It will also be appreciated upon review of this disclosure that, for example, depending on the size or type of table, the frame connection structures, undercuts, and / or frame connection structures with undercuts may have different shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements.

[0035] Another method is to attach a frame to a blow-molded plastic tabletop. This method may include providing a tabletop having a frame receiving section, the frame receiving section including a first frame connecting structure with an undercut disposed in a first section of the frame receiving section and a second frame connecting structure with an undercut disposed in a second section of the frame receiving section. The method may further include inserting a portion of the frame into the frame receiving section and moving the frame relative to the tabletop such that the first section of the frame can contact the first frame connecting structure, and the second section of the frame can contact the second frame connecting structure. Furthermore, the first section of the frame may engage the undercut lower surface of the first frame connecting structure, and the second section of the frame may engage the undercut lower surface of the second frame connecting structure. The first frame connecting structure may be disposed on a first side of the frame receiving section, and the second frame connecting structure may be disposed on a second side of the frame receiving section. The first section of the frame may engage the undercut of the first frame connecting structure, and the second section of the frame may engage the undercut of the second frame connecting structure. The frame may include one or more outwardly extending tabs, and the tabletop may include one or more receiving sections, and when the frame is attached to the tabletop, the tabs may be disposed in the receiving sections. Upon review of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that the blow-molded tabletop may include any suitable number of frame connection structures with undercuts and one or more receiving segments. It will also be appreciated that the frame may include one or more outwardly extending tabs. Therefore, the frame may include one or more tabs, and the tabs may be disposed in one or more receiving segments. Furthermore, the table may include any suitable number of components or features, such as one or more frame receiving segments, frame connection structures, tabs, receiving segments, etc.

[0036] On the other hand, there is an apparatus that may include a blow-molded plastic tabletop, the blow-molded plastic tabletop including an upper section, a lower section, and a hollow internal section formed during the blow molding process. The blow-molded plastic tabletop may include a frame receiving section disposed in the lower section of the blow-molded plastic tabletop, a first frame connecting structure with undercut formed in a first section of the frame receiving section, and a second frame connecting structure with undercut formed in a second section of the frame receiving section. The frame may be disposed in the frame receiving section of the tabletop. The frame may include a first section of the frame with undercut at least near the first frame connecting structure, and a second section of the frame with undercut at least near the second frame connecting structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the first frame connecting structure with undercut may be formed in the outer wall of the blow-molded plastic tabletop during the blow molding process, and the second frame connecting structure with undercut may be formed in the outer wall of the blow-molded plastic tabletop during the blow molding process. In another exemplary embodiment, the first frame connecting structure with undercut may be formed in the frame receiving section of the blow-molded plastic tabletop during the blow molding process, and the second frame connecting structure with undercut may be formed in the frame receiving section of the blow-molded plastic tabletop during the blow molding process. In another exemplary embodiment, the first frame connection structure may include an outwardly extending section having a protrusion and a cantilever portion, and an undercut may be disposed below the cantilever portion; and the second frame connection structure may include an inwardly extending section having a receiving section and a cantilever portion, and an undercut may be disposed below the cantilever portion. In another exemplary embodiment, the upper section, lower section, hollow internal section, frame receiving section, first frame connection structure with undercut, and second frame connection structure with undercut can be formed as a single, integral component during the blow molding process. In another exemplary embodiment, the undercuts of the first frame connection structure and the second frame connection structure can be formed during the blow molding process without the need for material removal after molding, and there is no significant deformation when the blow-molded plastic tabletop is removed from the mold during the blow molding process.

[0037] These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following description of the accompanying drawings, detailed description, and appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The accompanying drawings include illustrations of exemplary embodiments to further illustrate and clarify the above and other aspects, advantages, and features of the invention. It should be understood that these drawings only illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit its scope. Furthermore, it should be understood that although the drawings may illustrate preferred dimensions, scales, relationships, and configurations of the invention, they are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Additional features and details of the invention can be described and explained using the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0039] Figure 1A This is an exemplary upper perspective view of a molded plastic structure and support components (such as a frame);

[0040] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A The upper perspective view of the molded plastic structure and frame shown illustrates the frame and molded plastic structure positioned in the first location;

[0041] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A The upper perspective view of the molded plastic structure and frame shown illustrates the frame and molded plastic structure positioned in the second location;

[0042] Figure 2A This is an exemplary upper perspective view of a molded plastic structure and support components (such as a frame);

[0043] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A The upper perspective view of the molded plastic structure and frame shown illustrates the frame and molded plastic structure positioned in the first location;

[0044] Figure 2C yes Figure 2A The upper perspective view of the molded plastic structure and frame shown illustrates the frame and molded plastic structure positioned in the second location;

[0045] Figure 3A It is along Figure 1B The side view of the section along line 3A-3A is shown.

[0046] Figure 3B It is along Figure 1C The side view of the section along line 3B-3B shown;

[0047] Figure 3C yes Figure 3B The plan view of the cross-section side view shown;

[0048] Figure 4A It is along Figure 1B The side view of the section along line 4A-4A shown;

[0049] Figure 4B It is along Figure 1C The side view of the section along line 4B-4B shown;

[0050] Figure 5A This is an enlarged top perspective view of an exemplary molded plastic structure;

[0051] Figure 5B This is another enlarged upper perspective view of an exemplary molded plastic structure;

[0052] Figure 5CThis is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary molded plastic structure;

[0053] Figure 6A It is an enlarged perspective view of an exemplary support member (such as a frame); and

[0054] Figure 6B This is another enlarged perspective view of an exemplary support (such as a frame). Detailed Implementation

[0055] The exemplary embodiments described below will generally be described in conjunction with blow-molded plastic structures such as tabletops. However, the principles of the invention are not limited to tabletops. In particular, the principles of the invention can be implemented in other furniture articles and other structures that include blow-molded plastic components. Furthermore, it should be understood that, thanks to this disclosure, the structures can have various shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements. Moreover, the inventions and components disclosed herein can be successfully combined with other types of structures such as furniture (e.g., tables, picnic tables, chairs, etc.), objects (e.g., sheds, deck boxes, coolers, garden boxes, playground equipment, sporting goods, water sports equipment, etc.).

[0056] To aid in describing the exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, terms such as top, bottom, front, back, right, and left may be used. The drawings may, but are not necessarily, drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the structure can be positioned or oriented in various desired locations and orientations and can be used in many places, environments, and arrangements. The following is a detailed description of some exemplary embodiments of the structure.

[0057] The exemplary structure can be constructed from molded plastic. The exemplary molded plastic structure can be constructed from blow-molded plastic. In the accompanying drawings, the exemplary molded plastic structure may be referred to as a tabletop or part of tabletop 10. Tabletop 10 may include an upper segment 12, a lower segment 14, and an outer boundary 16. The upper segment 12 and the lower segment 14 of tabletop 10 may be spaced apart. Tabletop 10 may include a hollow internal segment 18, and at least a portion of the hollow internal segment 18 may be disposed between the upper segment 12 and the lower segment 14. If desired, the hollow internal segment 18 may be filled with foam or other suitable material.

[0058] The tabletop 10 may also include one or more sides, corners, and ends. The tabletop 10 can be integrally molded as part of a single, one-piece structure during a blow molding process. It should be understood that, for example, depending on the intended use of the tabletop, the tabletop 10 can have a variety of suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements. It should also be understood that the tabletop 10 can be constructed from a variety of materials and can include one or more features, aspects, etc. Although the molded plastic structure can be described as a tabletop or part of a tabletop, it should be understood that the molded plastic structure can be another suitable structure, such as a chair seat, a canopy, a deck box, etc.

[0059] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, the tabletop 10 may form part of a table, and the table may include one or more support structures or legs, the size and configuration of which may be designed to support the tabletop above a surface such as a floor or ground. The support structure may include one or more support members, and the support structure may be movable between a use position and a folded or storage position. It should be understood that, for example, depending on the intended use of the table, the table may include any suitable number of support structures and / or legs. It should also be understood that, for example, depending on the type of table or its intended use, the support structures and / or legs may have different shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements.

[0060] The table may include a frame 20 attached to a tabletop 10. The frame 20 may support the tabletop 10, and the frame facilitates the attachment of support structures or legs to the table. The exemplary frame 20 shown in the figures may be a side beam or part of a side beam, and the side beam may be positioned at least on one or more sides adjacent to the tabletop 10. It should be understood that, for example, depending on the type of table and its intended use, the tabletop 10 and frame 20 may have different shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements. It should be understood that the tabletop 10 and frame 20 may have other components, features, aspects, characteristics, etc., if desired.

[0061] It should be understood that, thanks to this disclosure, desktop 10 and frame 20 can include any suitable number of components, and, for example, depending on the intended use of the table, the components can have different sizes, shapes, configurations, and arrangements. It should also be understood that desktop 10 and frame 20 can include other components, features, aspects, characteristics, etc., if desired; however, no feature, aspect, or component is required.

[0062] The desktop 10 may include one or more undercuts 22. For example, the desktop 10 may include an outwardly extending segment 24 having an undercut 22. As shown in the figures, the outwardly extending segment 24 may extend outward from a portion of the desktop 10 and may include a protrusion 26 with an undercut 22. For example, the outwardly extending segment 24 may include a ramp or inclined surface 28 and a cantilever portion 30. A protrusion or recess 32 may be provided below the cantilever portion 30, and the lower surface 34 of the cantilever portion 30 may include a generally flat surface. The lower surface 34 of the cantilever portion 30 may be angled, and the dimensions and configuration of the lower surface of the cantilever portion may be designed to engage or contact part of a frame.

[0063] The desktop may include an inwardly extending segment 40 having an undercut 22. As shown in the figures, the inwardly extending segment 40 may extend inwardly into a portion of the desktop 10, and it may include a protrusion 42 with the undercut 22. The inwardly extending segment 40 may include an opening 44 and a receiving segment 46. The inwardly extending segment 40 may include an undercut 22 with a protrusion or recess 48, and the lower surface 50 of the overhanging portion 52 may include a generally flat surface. The lower surface 50 of the undercut 22 may be angled, and the dimensions and configuration of the lower surface 50 of the undercut 22 may be designed to engage or contact a portion of the frame 20.

[0064] The desktop 10 may include a frame receiving section 60, the size and configuration of which may be designed to receive at least a portion of the frame 20. For example, the frame receiving section 60 may include a channel or recess disposed in the lower portion 14 of the desktop 10. The frame receiving section 60 may include a first section 62, and an undercut structure may be disposed in the first section of the frame receiving section. Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment, the frame receiving section 60 may include a first section 62, and the first section may include an undercut structure. The frame receiving section 60 may include a second portion 64, and an undercut structure may be disposed in the second section of the frame receiving section. Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment, the frame receiving section 60 may include a second section 64, and the second section may include an undercut structure.

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, the frame receiving segment 60 may include a first side or segment 62, and the first segment 62 of the frame receiving segment 60 may include one or more undercuts 22. Specifically, the first segment 62 of the frame receiving segment 60 may include one or more structures and one or more undercuts 22. For example, as... Figures 1A to 1CAs shown, the frame receiving section 60 may include a first section 62 having an outwardly extending section 24, and the outwardly extending section 24 may include one or more undercuts 22. The frame receiving section 60 may include a second section 64 having one or more structures and one or more undercuts 22. For example, the second section 64 of the frame receiving section 60 may include one or more inwardly extending sections 40, and the inwardly extending sections 40 may include one or more undercuts 22. As shown in the figures, the undercuts 22 on the first section 62 of the frame receiving section 60 may be at least partially aligned with the undercuts 22 on the second section 64 of the frame receiving section 60. Upon review of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that any suitable number, shape, size, configuration, and / or arrangement of undercuts 22 may be provided on the first section 62 and / or the second section 64 of the frame receiving section 60. Upon review of this disclosure, it will also be appreciated that one or more undercuts 22 may be aligned, substantially disposed in the same plane, or arranged in a symmetrical configuration, etc. However, it is not necessary for the undercuts 22 to be aligned, substantially on the same plane, or arranged symmetrically. Instead, the undercuts 22 can be offset, spaced apart, and / or arranged in other suitable configurations and arrangements. Furthermore, depending on the intended use of the table, the undercuts 22 can be any suitable combination of outward and / or inward extending structures.

[0066] The frame 20 may be sized and configured to be at least partially disposed within the frame receiving section 60. The frame 20 may include one or more openings 80 or cutouts, and the openings 80 allow the frame 20 to be at least partially disposed within the frame receiving section 60. For example, the frame 20 may include openings or cutouts 80 that allow the frame 20 to be disposed with respect to an outwardly extending structure 24, and the outwardly extending structure 24 may include one or more undercuts 22. The frame 20 may also include a surface sized and configured to engage or contact a corresponding surface of the undercut 22 when the frame 20 is attached to the tabletop 10.

[0067] Frame 20 may include one or more tabs 84 or outwardly extending segments sized and configured to at least partially comprise an inwardly extending structure or segment 40, and the inwardly extending segment 40 may include one or more undercuts 22. For example, when frame 20 is inserted into frame receiving segment 60, tabs 84 may be disposed in openings 44 of the inwardly extending structure 40. Tabs 84 may include a surface sized and configured to engage or contact a corresponding surface of the undercut 22 when frame 20 is attached to tabletop 10.

[0068] Advantageously, the dimensions and configuration of the frame 20 and the frame receiving segment 60 are designed to allow the frame 20 to be inserted into the frame receiving segment 60. When the frame 20 is inserted into the frame receiving segment 60, the frame 20 can move such that the frame engages with one or more undercuts 22 on a first side or first segment 62 of the frame receiving segment 60 and / or one or more undercuts 22 on a second side or second segment 64 of the frame receiving segment 60. The engagement of one or more segments of the frame 20 with one or more undercuts 22 can help securely attach the frame 20 to the desktop 10. Furthermore, if one or more undercuts 22 are located on the first side or first segment 62 of the frame receiving segment 60 and one or more undercuts 22 are located on the second side or second segment 64 of the frame receiving segment 60, the frame 20 can be securely attached to the desktop 10.

[0069] For example, Figure 1A Exemplary portions of a desktop 10 and a frame 20 are shown. The desktop 10 may include an upper segment 12, a lower segment 14, an outer boundary 16, and a hollow inner segment 18, which may be formed during a blow molding process. The desktop 10 may include one or more structures and one or more undercuts 22. For example, the desktop 10 may include one or more structures, such as one or more outwardly extending structures or segments 24. The outwardly extending segments 24 may include protrusions or projections 26, overhangs 30, and protrusions or recesses 32. The lower surface of the outwardly extending segments 24 may be the lower surface of the overhangs 30, which may be without material and may form at least a portion of the undercut 22. The undercut 22 may include an upper surface, which may be the lower surface of the outwardly extending segments 24 or the lower surface of the overhangs 30. The undercut 22 may include a first end and a second end. For example, the first end of the undercut 22 may be positioned at least near the outer wall of a blow-molded plastic structure, such as the lower segment 14 of the desktop 10. The first end of the undercut 22 may also be positioned at least near a portion of the frame receiving section 60. The second end of the undercut 22 may be positioned away from the outer wall of the blow-molded plastic structure, such as the lower section 14 of the tabletop 10. The second end of the undercut 22 may also be positioned away from the frame receiving section 60. The undercut 22 may also include a recess 32, and one side of the recess may be at least partially formed by the outer wall of the blow-molded plastic structure (such as the lower section 14) or a portion of the frame receiving section 60. The recess 32 may include an upper surface, which may be the upper surface of the undercut 22. The recess 32 may be formed at least partially by an outer section of an outwardly extending section 24. The outer section may extend at an angle relative to the overhanging portion 30 and / or the lower surface 34.

[0070] like Figure 1B As shown, the frame 20 can be at least partially disposed in the frame receiving section 60 of the desktop 10. For example... Figure 1CAs shown, the frame 20 can move relative to the desktop 10 to connect the desktop 10 and the frame 20.

[0071] Figure 2A-2C Another exemplary embodiment of desktop 10 and frame 20 is shown. For example, Figure 2A A frame 20 is shown that is spaced apart from the desktop 10. Figure 2B The frame 20 is shown to be at least partially disposed in the frame receiving section 60 of the desktop 10. Figure 2C The frame 20 is shown to be movable relative to the desktop 10 to connect the frame and the desktop.

[0072] The desktop 10 and / or frame 20 may include other features and aspects. For example, the desktop 10 may include one or more angled surfaces 90, such as ramps, which help position the frame 20 relative to the desktop. The angled surfaces 90 may also help prevent the frame 20 from accidentally separating from the desktop 10. The desktop 10 may also include one or more receiving segments 92, which are sized and configured to receive a portion of the frame 20. The receiving segments 92 may receive a portion of the frame 20 and may help prevent the frame and desktop 10 from unintentionally breaking the connection. For example, the frame 20 may include an outwardly extending segment 94, which may move along the angled surface as the frame 20 moves into a locked position within the frame receiving segment 60. When the frame is in the locked position, the outwardly extending segment 94 may be disposed within the receiving segment 92, and the engagement of the outwardly extending segment 94 with the receiving segment 92 may help secure the frame 20 in the locked position.

[0073] like Figure 3A As shown, the frame 20 can be disposed within the frame receiving section 60 of the desktop 10, and the frame 20 can be disposed in a first position or an unlocked position. In this position, the frame 20 can move easily relative to the desktop 10. For example, the frame 20 may not engage with or contact the undercut 22 of the outwardly extending section 24. The frame 20 may also not be disposed within the recess of the undercut 22 or the receiving section 32. This position allows the frame 20 to move relatively freely relative to the desktop 10.

[0074] like Figure 3B As shown, frame 20 can be positioned in a second position or a locked position. In this position, frame 20 can be fixed to the tabletop 10 in a fixed position. For example, in this position, the edge of frame 20 can engage or contact the undercut 22 of the outwardly extending segment 24. The edge of frame 20 can also be positioned in the recess of the undercut or in a receiving segment. The engagement or positioning of the edge of frame 20 with the undercut 22 of the outwardly extending segment helps prevent accidental movement of frame 20 relative to the tabletop 10.

[0075] like Figure 3CAs shown, a portion of frame 20 may engage or be configured at least near the undercut 22 of the outwardly extending segment 24, which can help secure the frame in a fixed position. Therefore, in this exemplary embodiment, a portion of frame 20 can be held or retained in place by the undercut 22 of the outwardly extending segment 24. Another portion of frame 20 may engage or be configured at least near the undercut 22 of the inwardly extending segment 40. The inwardly extending segment 40 may include protrusions 42 and recesses 48, and a portion of frame 20, such as tabs 84, may engage or be configured at least near the undercut 22 of the inwardly extending segment 40. Therefore, in this exemplary embodiment, a portion of frame 20 can be held or retained in place by the undercut 22 of the inwardly extending segment 40.

[0076] As shown in the accompanying drawings, the one or more undercuts 22 can help maintain or hold the frame 20 in a desired position relative to the tabletop 10. Advantageously, the size and configuration of the undercuts 22 can be designed to maintain or hold different positions of the frame 20 in the desired positions. For example, the one or more undercuts 22 can be arranged in pairs or groups, and the undercuts 22 can be positioned to facilitate secure attachment of the frame 20 to the tabletop 10. In an exemplary embodiment, the undercuts 22 can be disposed on opposite sides of the frame 20, such as on opposite sides of the frame receiving section 60. Arranging one or more undercuts 22 on opposite surfaces can help secure the frame 20 in a fixed position.

[0077] like Figure 4A and 4B As shown, the frame 20 may include one or more angled segments, and the angled segments may extend at an angle relative to the body or central segment of the frame. The angled segments may form tabs 84, and the tabs may include a surface sized and configured to be positioned within an opening 44 of the inwardly extending segment 40. The ends of the tabs 84 may engage or be positioned at least near the undercut 22 of the inwardly extending segment 40. Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, the tabs 84 of the frame 20 can be held or retained in place by the undercut 22 of the inwardly extending segment 40.

[0078] like Figures 5A-5CAs shown, the desktop 10 may include an outwardly extending section 24 with an undercut 22 that may be disposed on one side of the frame receiving section 60, and an inwardly extending section 40 with an undercut that may be disposed on a second side of the frame receiving section 60. The outwardly extending section 24 and the inwardly extending section 40 may be positioned to allow the frame 20 to slide or move into place. Furthermore, the ramp or angled surface 90 and the receiving section 92 may help maintain the frame 20 in a desired position. For example, the ramp 90 and / or the receiving section 92 may deform, engage, or otherwise prevent the frame 20 from moving accidentally relative to the desktop 10. For example, the ramp 90 and / or the receiving section 92 may allow the frame 20 to slide or move from an unlocked position to a locked position by means of movement in a first direction, and the ramp and / or the receiving section may help hold the frame in the locked position by means of preventing movement in the opposite direction. The frame 20 may include one or more openings and / or outward extensions (such as outward extension 94) that are sized and configured to work in conjunction with the ramp 90 and / or receiving section 92 to hold the frame 20 in a locked position.

[0079] Figure 6A and 6B The exemplary frame 20 shown may have an elongated body, and the frame may include one or more openings 80 and one or more tabs 84. Furthermore, the frame 20 may include one or more cutouts such as cutouts 86, and these cutouts may facilitate placement of the frame in the frame receiving section 60. The frame 20 may further include one or more outwardly extending sections 94. The outwardly extending sections 94 may include openings 96 and protrusions 98. The protrusions 98 may be sized and configured to be positioned within the receiving section 92, which may help maintain the frame 20 in a desired position relative to the tabletop 10.

[0080] The outwardly extending segment 24 and the inwardly extending segment 40 having one or more undercuts 22 cannot be formed using conventional blow molding techniques. Instead, a tool allows the inwardly extending segment 40 having undercuts 22 to be formed during the blow molding process. An exemplary tool may include a base, a first finger, and a second finger. The first and second fingers are movable between a molding position, in which the blow-molded structure can be formed, and in the release position, in which the blow-molded structure can be disengaged from the tool. The first finger may include a stop, and the second finger may also include a stop, and the stop may help control the movement of the finger. For example, the stop may help position the finger in the molding position and / or the release position. The finger may also include a plurality of stops, which may help position the finger in the molding position and / or the release position. The first and second fingers may include ends (such as distal ends) that extend outward relative to the upper surface of the base. The size and configuration of a portion of the first finger and a portion of the second finger, which may include distal ends, can be designed to contact or touch the plastic during the blow molding process. Therefore, the distal ends of the fingers can facilitate shaping the plastic into a desired form during the molding process. The first and second fingers may also include another end (such as a proximal end), which may be positioned at least near the lower surface of the base. The fingers can be connected to a device such as a motor, cam, piston, actuator, etc., and this device can help control the movement of one or more fingers. For example, this device can move the fingers between a molding position and a release position.

[0081] The fingers may include outwardly extending segments, the dimensions and configuration of which may be designed to form an undercut 22 in the inwardly extending segment 40. More specifically, the outwardly extending segments may be located at the distal end of each finger, and these outwardly extending segments may extend in opposite directions. For example, in a molding position, the outwardly extending segments may extend in opposite directions, and the outwardly extending segments may be located in substantially the same plane. The outwardly extending segments may include a substantially flat first surface and a substantially flat second surface spaced apart. The substantially flat first surface and the second surface may be substantially aligned in parallel planes. However, the substantially flat first surface and the second surface do not necessarily have to be aligned or located in substantially parallel planes. For example, depending on the type of undercut to be formed, the substantially flat first surface and the second surface may be located at an angle. The outwardly extending segments may also include an outer edge or wall extending between the first surface and the second surface.

[0082] When the tool is positioned in the molding position, the upper surfaces of the first and second fingers and / or the upper surfaces of their outwardly extending segments can be substantially aligned and / or disposed in the same plane. The upper surfaces of the first and second fingers and / or the upper surfaces of their outwardly extending segments can also be aligned with a portion of the base (such as the upper surface of a guide). The guide can have a substantially wedge-shaped or triangular configuration, and the upper surfaces of the first and second fingers and / or the upper surfaces of their outwardly extending segments can be substantially aligned with the upper surface of the guide. In the molding position, the outer surfaces of the fingers near the base can be separated by a first distance, the outer surfaces of the fingers near the outwardly extending segments can be separated by a second distance, and the outermost ends or edges of the outwardly extending segments of the fingers can be separated by a third distance. The first distance can be greater than the second or third distance, and this segment of the tool can form the base of the inwardly extending segment during the molding process. The second distance can be smaller than the first and third distances, and the second distance can help identify the narrowest segment of the inwardly extending segment. The third distance can be less than the first distance and greater than the second distance, and the third distance can help identify undercuts.

[0083] When forming a blow-molded structure, the plastic can contact and be configured as a portion surrounding the upper exterior of the first and second fingers, an outwardly extending portion, and a portion of the base, such as a portion of the guide and / or the upper surface of the base. Advantageously, the tooling can allow the inwardly extending portion with an undercut to be formed during the blow molding process. Furthermore, it can be removed from the tooling after the structure is formed, with no or substantially no deformation of the molded plastic structure. Importantly, the undercut can include a flat surface and / or an acute angle, which can facilitate the secure attachment of components such as fasteners, connectors, or other objects to the blow-molded plastic structure.

[0084] Structures constructed from blow-molded plastics can possess unique and distinctive characteristics, and certain aspects of blow molding may be incompatible with other types of molding (such as injection molding, rotational molding, vacuum molding, etc.). For example, because blow-molded plastic structures are formed by filling a preform of molten plastic with air or gas, some features or structures that can be made by certain molding processes cannot be made using existing blow molding processes. Furthermore, blow-molded plastic structures typically have an outer surface that engages with the mold face and a hollow interior filled with compressed gas during the blow molding process. Therefore, due to the different characteristics and configurations of blow-molded plastic structures, they cannot be manufactured using apparatus, molds, structures, etc., of other types of molding processes. Further, because most blow-molded plastic structures include opposing walls spaced apart and surrounding the hollow interior sections, processes or structures suitable for single-layer materials may not be applicable to blow-molded plastic structures. Therefore, those skilled in the art, upon reviewing this disclosure, will recognize that the blow-molded plastic structures and methods disclosed herein differ significantly from other types of molded plastic structures and methods.

[0085] Please note that the same reference numerals may be used for convenience and / or readability. It should be understood that various parts, components, surfaces, features, etc., may have different shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements. Therefore, although the same reference numerals can generally identify similar parts, components, surfaces, features, etc., it should be understood that various parts, components, surfaces, features, etc., may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements.

[0086] Those skilled in the art will understand, upon review of this disclosure, that the desktops, frames, and structures disclosed herein can have a variety of different aspects, features, characteristics, and configurations. Furthermore, depending on the intended use of the table or other structure, the desktops, frames, and structures can have any suitable number of aspects, features, characteristics, and configurations.

[0087] Those skilled in the art will understand that the structures disclosed herein can have a variety of suitable sizes, shapes, configurations, and / or arrangements. Other exemplary constructions are shown below:

[0088] Although the invention has been described with reference to certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments that will be apparent to those skilled in the art are also within the scope of the invention. Therefore, the scope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A table, comprising: Blow-molded plastic tabletop, the blow-molded plastic tabletop comprising: upper surface; Lower surface; A frame receiving section is set in the lower surface of the desktop; A first frame connection structure with an undercut, at least partially disposed in the desktop, the first frame connection structure including outwardly extending protrusions; and A second frame connection structure with undercut is at least partially set in the desktop; A frame connected to the desktop, with a first segment of the frame connected to a first frame connection structure, and a second segment of the frame in contact with a second frame connection structure; and One or more support members, the dimensions and construction of which are designed to support a tabletop with respect to a surface.

2. The table according to claim 1, wherein, The first segment of the frame joins the undercut lower surface of the first frame connection structure; and The second section of the frame joins the undercut lower surface of the second frame connection structure.

3. The table according to claim 1, wherein, The first frame connection structure is disposed on the first side of the frame receiving section, and the second frame connection structure is disposed on the second side of the frame receiving section.

4. The table according to claim 1, wherein, The second frame connection structure includes an inwardly extending structure with an undercut.

5. The table according to claim 1, wherein, The frame attaches to the desktop without using any fasteners.

6. The table according to claim 1, wherein, The upper surface, lower surface, frame receiving section, first frame connecting structure with undercut, and second frame connecting structure with undercut are integrally molded into a single, one-piece component during the blow molding process.

7. The table according to claim 1, wherein, A portion of the frame is inserted into the frame receiving section, and then the frame moves within the frame receiving section to allow the first portion of the frame to engage undercut with the first frame connection structure, and the second portion of the frame to engage undercut with the second frame connection structure.

8. The table according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes cutouts in the frame that allow the frame to be inserted into the frame receiving section.

9. The table according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes one or more outwardly extending tabs of the frame and one or more receiving segments in the desktop, wherein the tabs are disposed in the receiving segments when the frame is attached to the desktop.

10. A method for attaching a frame to a blow-molded plastic tabletop, the method comprising: A desktop with a frame receiving section is provided, the frame receiving section including a first frame connecting structure with an undercut and a second frame connecting structure with an undercut, the desktop, the frame receiving section, the first frame connecting structure with an undercut and the second frame connecting structure with an undercut are integrally molded into a single, one-piece component during a blow molding process; A portion of the frame is inserted into the frame receiving section, the frame including one or more outwardly extending tabs; The frame is moved relative to the desktop so that the first segment of the frame contacts the first frame connection structure and the second segment of the frame contacts the second frame connection structure. as well as When the frame is attached to the desktop, one or more outwardly extending tabs of the frame are positioned in one or more receiving sections in the desktop.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The first segment of the frame joins the undercut lower surface of the first frame connection structure; and The second section of the frame joins the undercut lower surface of the second frame connection structure.

12. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The first frame connection structure is disposed on the first side of the frame receiving section, and the second frame connection structure is disposed on the second side of the frame receiving section.

13. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The first segment of the frame joins the undercut of the first frame connection structure; and The second segment of the frame is joined to the undercut of the second frame connection structure.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein, It also includes cutouts in the frame that allow the frame to be inserted into a frame receiving section.

15. An apparatus comprising: A blow-molded plastic tabletop, comprising an upper section, a lower section, and a hollow internal section at least partially disposed between the upper and lower sections of the tabletop, the blow-molded plastic tabletop comprising: A first frame connection structure with undercut, the first frame connection structure including an outwardly extending structure; and A second frame connection structure with undercut, the second frame connection structure including an inwardly extending structure; and The framework includes: The first segment of the frame is configured to be at least close to the undercut of the first frame connection structure; and The second segment of the frame is configured to be at least close to the undercut of the second frame connection structure.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein, A first frame connection structure with an undercut is formed in the outer wall of the blow-molded plastic tabletop during the blow molding process; and The second frame connection structure with undercut is formed in the outer wall of the blow-molded plastic tabletop during the blow molding process.

17. The device according to claim 15, wherein, A first frame connection structure with an undercut is formed in the frame receiving section of the blow-molded plastic tabletop during the blow molding process; and The second frame connection structure with undercut is formed in the frame receiving section of the blow-molded plastic tabletop during the blow molding process.

18. The device according to claim 15, wherein, The first frame connection structure includes an outwardly extending section with protrusions and overhangs; and The second frame connection structure includes an inwardly extending section with a receiving section.

19. The device according to claim 15, wherein, The upper section, lower section, hollow internal section, first frame connecting structure with undercut, and second frame connecting structure with undercut are integrally molded into a single, one-piece component during the blow molding process. and The undercut of the first frame connection structure and the undercut of the second frame connection structure are formed during the blow molding process. After molding, no material needs to be removed, and there is no obvious deformation when the blow-molded plastic tabletop is removed from the mold during the blow molding process.

20. A method of attaching a frame to a molded plastic tabletop, the method comprising: A molded plastic tabletop is provided, the molded plastic tabletop including a first frame connection structure with an undercut and a second frame connection structure with an undercut, the first frame connection structure with an undercut and the second frame connection structure with an undercut are integrally molded with the tabletop as a single, one-piece component; A frame is provided for connection to a molded plastic tabletop, the frame including a first segment sized and configured to connect to a first frame connection structure, and a second segment sized and configured to connect to a second frame connection structure; The first segment of the frame is positioned close to the first frame connection structure, and the second segment of the frame is positioned close to the second frame connection structure. and The frame slides along an axis aligned with the lower surface of the desktop to connect the first frame connecting structure to the first segment of the frame, thereby connecting it to the desktop, and to connect the second frame connecting structure to the second segment of the frame, thereby connecting it to the desktop.

21. An apparatus comprising: Structures constructed from blow-molded plastic, including: Outer surface; A protrusion extending outward from the outer surface; A frame receiving section, at least partially disposed on the outer surface; The first frame connection structure with undercut includes outwardly extending protrusions; and A second frame connection structure with undercut is at least partially disposed in the frame receiving section; The outer surface, frame receiving section, first frame connecting structure and second frame connecting structure are integrally molded into a single, one-piece component during the blow molding process; A frame is connected to a blow-molded plastic structure, with the first section of the frame connected to a first frame connection structure and the second section of the frame connected to a second frame connection structure.

22. The device according to claim 21, wherein, The first segment of the frame joins the undercut lower surface of the first frame connection structure; and The second section of the frame joins the undercut lower surface of the second frame connection structure.

23. The device according to claim 21, wherein, The first frame connection structure is disposed on the first side of the frame receiving section, and the second frame connection structure is disposed on the second side of the frame receiving section.

24. The device according to claim 21, wherein, The first frame connection structure includes an outwardly extending structure with undercut.

25. The device according to claim 21, wherein, The second frame connection structure includes an inwardly extending structure with an undercut.

26. The device according to claim 21, wherein, The frame can be attached to the blow-molded plastic structure without the use of any fasteners.

27. The device according to claim 21, wherein, A portion of the frame is inserted into the frame receiving section, and then the frame moves within the frame receiving section to allow the first portion of the frame to engage undercut with the first frame connection structure, and the second portion of the frame to engage undercut with the second frame connection structure.

28. The device according to claim 21, wherein, It also includes cutouts in the frame that allow the frame to be inserted into the frame receiving section.

29. The device according to claim 21, wherein, It also includes one or more outwardly extending tabs of the frame and one or more receiving segments in the desktop, wherein the tabs are disposed in the receiving segments when the frame is attached to the desktop.

30. The device according to claim 21, wherein, The first frame connection structure includes an outwardly extending structure with undercut; and The second frame connection structure includes an inwardly extending structure with an undercut.

31. A method for connecting a frame to a blow-molded plastic structure, the method comprising: A structure constructed from blow-molded plastic is provided, the blow-molded plastic structure including an outer surface, protrusions extending outward from the outer surface, and a frame receiving section at least partially disposed in the outer surface, the frame receiving section including a first frame connecting structure with undercut including the outwardly extending protrusion and a second frame connecting structure with undercut at least partially disposed in the frame receiving section, the frame receiving section, the first frame connecting structure with undercut and the second frame connecting structure with undercut being integrally molded into a single, one-piece structural component during the blow molding process; At least a portion of a frame is inserted into a frame receiving section of a blow-molded plastic structure, the frame including a cutout sized and constructed to allow the frame to be inserted into the frame receiving section; and The frame is moved such that a first segment of the frame contacts a first frame connection structure and a second segment of the frame contacts a second frame connection structure, so as to connect the frame to the blow-molded plastic structure.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein, The first segment of the frame joins the undercut lower surface of the first frame connection structure; and The second section of the frame joins the undercut lower surface of the second frame connection structure.

33. The method according to claim 31, wherein, The first frame connection structure is disposed on the first side of the frame receiving section, and the second frame connection structure is disposed on the second side of the frame receiving section.

34. The method according to claim 31, wherein, The first segment of the frame joins the undercut of the first frame connection structure; and The second segment of the frame is joined to the undercut of the second frame connection structure.

35. The method according to claim 31, wherein, It also includes one or more outwardly extending tabs of the frame and one or more receiving segments in the desktop, wherein the tabs are disposed in the receiving segments when the frame is attached to the desktop.

36. An apparatus comprising: A blow-molded plastic structure, the blow-molded plastic structure including a hollow internal section formed during a blow molding process, the blow-molded plastic structure comprising: Outer surface; A protrusion extending outward from the outer surface; A frame receiving section is installed on the outer surface of a blow-molded plastic structure; The first frame connection structure with undercut includes outwardly extending protrusions; and A second frame connection structure with undercut is at least partially formed in the frame receiving section; and A frame, at least partially disposed in a frame receiving section, the frame comprising: The first segment of the frame is configured to be at least close to the undercut of the first frame connection structure; and The second segment of the frame is configured to be at least close to the undercut of the second frame connection structure.

37. The device according to claim 36, wherein, A first frame connection structure with undercut is formed in the outer wall of the blow-molded plastic structure during the blow molding process; and The second frame connection structure with undercut is formed in the outer wall of the blow-molded plastic structure during the blow molding process.

38. The device according to claim 36, wherein, A first frame connection structure with undercut is formed in the frame receiving section of the blow-molded plastic structure during the blow molding process; and The second frame connection structure with undercut is formed in the frame receiving section of the blow-molded plastic structure during the blow molding process.

39. The device according to claim 36, wherein, The first frame connection structure includes an outwardly extending section with protrusions and overhangs; and The second frame connection structure includes an inwardly extending section with a receiving section.

40. The device according to claim 36, wherein, The frame receiving section, the first frame connecting structure with undercut, and the second frame connecting structure with undercut are integrally molded into a single, one-piece component during the blow molding process. and The undercut of the first frame connection structure and the undercut of the second frame connection structure are formed during the blow molding process. After molding, no material needs to be removed, and the blow-molded plastic structure does not show significant deformation when removed from the mold during the blow molding process.

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