Fold out tray for gaming table
Patent Information
- Application Number
- US19/460244
- Authority / Receiving Office
- US · United States
- Patent Type
- Applications(United States)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-02-26
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-27
Smart Images
Figure US20260248272A1-D00000_ABST
Abstract
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 19 / 282,980, titled “Table With Split Sliding Top and Craft / Gaming Surface,” filed Jul. 28, 2025, which claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 63 / 763,757 titled “Table With Split Sliding Top and Craft / Gaming Surface,” filed Feb. 26, 2025. Each of these applications is incorporated herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND
[0002] Conventional two-surface tables require that a top surface is lifted off to access a second surface, requiring that the top surface be stored elsewhere when not in use. This is inconvenient and risks damage to the top surface.SUMMARY
[0003] The present embodiments overcome the above problems with prior art tables by including a bearing mechanism that allows the top surface to split and slide underneath a second surface of the table.
[0004] In certain embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a table with a split sliding top and a craft / gaming surface, including: a first end assembly having two legs and a first cross-member, the first cross-member forming a first guide; a second end assembly having two legs and a second cross-member, the second cross-member forming a second guide; a table bottom mounted between the first end assembly and the second end assembly to form the craft / gaming surface; a first sliding top portion having a first bearing plate and a second bearing plate attached at opposite ends of the first sliding top portion; and a second sliding top portion having a third bearing plate at a first end of the second sliding top portion and a fourth bearing plate at a second end of the second sliding top portion that is opposite to the first end; wherein two bearings on each of the first bearing plate and the second bearing plate extend into a corresponding one of the first guide and the second guide and guide the first sliding top and the second sliding top to independently transition the table between use with the split sliding top and the craft / gaming surface.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0005] In the drawings, identical reference numbers identify similar elements or acts.
[0006] The sizes and relative positions of elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.
[0007] For example, the shapes of various elements and angles are not drawn to scale, and some of these elements are arbitrarily enlarged and positioned to improve drawing legibility. Further, the particular shapes of the elements as drawn, are not intended to convey any information regarding the actual shape of the particular elements, and have been solely selected for ease of recognition in the drawings.
[0008] FIG. 1 is an isometric diagram showing one example table with two sliding top portions (1) and (2) that form a split top surface that covers a craft / gaming surface, in embodiments.
[0009] FIGS. 2 and 3 are isometric diagrams illustrating table of FIG. 1 in a second configuration sliding top portions in a storage position to reveal a craft / gaming surface implemented by a table bottom, in embodiments.
[0010] FIG. 4 is an isometric diagram illustrating one example bearing plate fitted to one end of sliding top portion of FIG. 1 by a plurality of fasteners applied through apertures, in embodiments.
[0011] FIGS. 5A-5E illustrate bearing plate of FIG. 4 in further example detail, in embodiments.
[0012] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C illustrate first end assembly of FIG. 1 where first cross-member forms a guide for bearings of FIG. 4, in embodiments.
[0013] FIG. 7A is an isometric diagram illustrating frame of FIG. 1 in further example detail, in embodiments.
[0014] FIG. 7B is an isometric diagram illustrating base-side of FIG. 2 in further example detail, in embodiments.
[0015] FIGS. 8A and 8B are end views of cross-members illustrating guides of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C in further example detail, in embodiments.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustrating example operation of the sliding top portion of FIG. 1 within the guide of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, in embodiments.
[0017] FIGS. 10A and 10B are end views illustrating alternatively formed guides within cross-members, in embodiments.
[0018] FIG. 11A shows a cross-section A-A of the guides of FIGS. 10A and 10B, in embodiments.
[0019] FIG. 11B is a cross-section B-B of the guides of FIGS. 10A and 10B, in embodiments.
[0020] FIGS. 12A and 12B are isometric views of the table of FIG. 1 illustrating one example pivot mechanism at one end of the side tray, in embodiments.
[0021] FIG. 12C is a front elevation of the pivot mechanism of FIGS. 12A and 12B, in embodiments.
[0022] FIG. 13 is an isometric view of the table of FIG. 1 illustrating an alternative side tray with a modular accessory holder, in embodiments.
[0023] FIG. 14 is an isometric view illustrating the keyed recess in the side tray of FIG. 13 in further example detail, in embodiments.
[0024] FIG. 15A is an isometric top view of the modular accessory holder of FIG. 13 in further example detail, in embodiments.
[0025] FIG. 15B is an isometric bottom view of the modular accessory holder of FIG. 13 in further example detail, in embodiments.
[0026] FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C, and 16D are top, bottom, rear, and side views of modular accessory holder of FIG. 13.
[0027] FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the side tray of FIG. 13 with two keyed recesses, in embodiments.
[0028] FIG. 17B is a perspective view of the side tray of FIG. 17A with one example modular accessory holder mounted within one keyed recess, in embodiments.
[0029] FIGS. 18A, 18B and 18C are schematic diagrams illustrating a portion of one example side tray and a modular accessory holder design that allows the modular accessory holder be angled, in embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0030] In the following description, certain specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense that is as “including, but not limited to.”
[0031] Reference throughout this specification to “one implementation” or “an implementation” or “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one implementation or embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “one implementation” or “an implementation” or “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same implementation or embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more implementations or one or more embodiments.
[0032] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and / or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
[0033] FIG. 1 is an isometric diagram showing one example table 100 with two sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) that form a split top surface 106 that covers a craft / gaming surface, in embodiments. In this configuration, table 100 appears and functions as a conventional table and includes four legs 104(1) (4) that support a substantially flat top surface 106. Legs 104(1) and 104(2) couple with a first cross-member 108(1) to form a first end assembly 110(1) and legs 104(3) and 104(4) couples with a second cross-member 108(2) to form a second end assembly 110(2). Each of first cross-member 108(1) and second cross-member 108(2) may be formed of multiple components (e.g., wooden parts) that couple together. First end assembly 110(1) and second end assembly 110(2) are coupled together by two frames 112 (only frame 112(1) is shown in FIG. 1) formed of angle iron. When top portions 102 form top surface 106, top portions 102 rest, at least in part, on base-sides 206 and bearings 412 (see FIGS. 2 and 4 described below).
[0034] FIGS. 2 and 3 are isometric diagrams illustrating table 100 of FIG. 1 in a second configuration, where sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) are slid into a storage position (e.g., see storage position 900 of FIG. 9) to reveal a craft / gaming surface 200 implemented by a table bottom 208. In this configuration, table 100 may include two side trays 202(1) and 202(2) and / or two end trays 204(1) and 204(2) that are hinged and unfold outwards to provide additional table areas for holding drinks, cards, pencils, and other implements. In certain embodiments, table bottom 208 is formed as a single piece.
[0035] Advantageously, table 100 has two table tops (e.g., top surface 106 formed by sliding top portions 102 and craft / gaming surface 200 formed by table bottom 208) with a sliding mechanism that allows sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) to independently slide up, outwards, and rotate and slide underneath table 100 into the storage position. Table 100 thereby provides two table surfaces 106 and 200 in a single space, offering double use to save space and increase utility of a room, where top portions 102 are retained and stored with table 100.
[0036] Further, items may remain on craft / gaming surface 200 when top surface 106 is in use, since there are a few inches of storage space 210 between an underside sliding top portions 102 and craft / gaming surface 200, and unfinished activities may remain on craft / gaming surface 200 (e.g., within storage space 210) when using top surface 106.
[0037] Table 100 also includes two base-sides 206(1) and 206(2) that couple with frames 112 to form a rectangular support for table bottom 208. Base-sides 206(1) and 206(2) and table bottom 208 are notched to receive frame frames 112. Frames 112 run the length of table 100 and are fixed to end assemblies 110, thereby strengthening both table bottom 208 and legs 104.
[0038] Particularly, fasteners (e.g., bolts and / or screws) secure an upright portion of frames 112 to legs 104, thereby making legs 104 more rigid and maintaining legs 104 perpendicular to table bottom 208.
[0039] FIG. 4 is an isometric diagram illustrating one example bearing plate 402 fitted to one end 404 of sliding top portion 102(1) of FIG. 1 by a plurality of fasteners applied through apertures 406, in embodiments. A second end (not shown) of sliding top portion 102(1) is fitted with a second bearing plate, similar to bearing plate 402, and each end of sliding top portion 102(2) is also fitted with a similar bearing plate. FIGS. 5A-5E illustrate bearing plate 402 of FIG. 4 in further example detail, in embodiments. FIGS. 4 and 5A-5E are best viewed together with the following description.
[0040] Bearing plate 402 includes a center portion 408 that extends beneath a lower surface 410 of sliding top portion 102(1) and supports two bearings 412(1) and 412(2) mounted to an outside edge of center portion 408. As shown in FIGS. 5D and 5E, each bearing 412 is formed with a rotating outer portion 502 and a spacer 504 that positioned rotating outer portion 502 away from center portion 408 of bearing plate 402, and thus from end 404 of sliding top portion 102(1). The bearing plate on the other end of sliding top portion 102(1) is similarly attached such that rotating outer portions 502 of bearings 412 extend away from sliding top portion 102(1). In certain embodiments, rotating outer portion 502 include ball-bearings.
[0041] FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C illustrate first end assembly 110(1) of FIG. 1 where first cross-member 108(1) forms a guide 602(1) for bearings 412 of FIG. 4, in embodiments. FIG. 6A is a bottom view of first end assembly 110(1), FIG. 6B is an side view of first end assembly 110(1), and FIG. 6C is an isometric view of first end assembly 110(1). FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C are best viewed together with the following description.
[0042] Although not shown, second end assembly 110(2) forms a guide 602(2) that is a mirror of guide 602(1) about a vertical plane and supports guides bearings 412 of an opposite end of top portions 102. Cross-members 108 and guides 602 are shown in further example detail in FIGS. 8A and 8B. Guides 602 form paths for retaining bearings 412 of top portions 102 that allow each top portion 102(1) and 102(2) to independently transition (e.g., lifted and rotated) between forming top surface 106 and being stored beneath table bottom 208 (e.g., see storage position 900 of FIG. 9).
[0043] In certain embodiments, first cross-member 108(1) is formed of a single piece of material (e.g., wood) that is processed (e.g., milled using a numerically controlled machine) to form guide 602(1). For example, a channel with a rectangular cross-section is milled into first cross-member 108(1) to form guide 602(1). Guide 602(1) has a rectangular cross-section sized to receive and allow motion of rotating outer portions 502 of bearings 412(1) and 412(2). In certain embodiments, first cross-member 108(1) is formed of multiple pieces of material that are processed and joined together to form first cross-member 108(1) with guide 602(1). However, first cross-member 108(1) and guide 602(1) may be formed by other wood working methods and techniques without departing from the scope hereof.
[0044] FIG. 7A is an isometric diagram illustrating frame 112 (1) of FIG. 1 in further example detail, in embodiments. As shown, frame 112(1) is formed of angle iron with vertical ends 702(1) and 702(2) that each have apertures 704 to receiving fasteners that secure frames 112 to legs 104. Frame 112(2) is similarly formed.
[0045] FIG. 7B is an isometric diagram illustrating base-side 206(1) of FIG. 2 in further example detail, in embodiments. Each end of two base-sides 206(1) forms a recess 752(1) and 752(2) for receiving one vertical end 702(1) of frames 112. Base-side 206(2) is similarly formed.
[0046] FIGS. 8A and 8B are end views of cross-members 108 illustrating guides 602 of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C in further example detail, in embodiments. FIG. 8A shows guide 602(1) formed in first cross-member 108(1) and FIG. 8B shows guide 602(2) formed in second cross-member 108(2), where guide 602(2) is a mirror of guide 602(1).
[0047] Cross-member 108(1) has three planar parallel surfaces: a first surface 802, a second surface 804, and a third surface 806, where third surface 806 is further from first surface 802 than second surface 804. Third surface 806 forms a back wall of guide 602(1). Each surface is represented in a different shading for clarity of illustration and does not necessarily represent a separate component. However, in certain embodiments, a first material is processed to form second surface 804 and third surface 806, and a second material is processed to form first surface 802, where the first and second materials are coupled together to form first cross-member 108(1). Second cross-member 108(2) is similarly formed. Walls of guide 602(2) are substantially perpendicular to third surface 806.
[0048] FIG. 8A illustrates positions of bearings 412(1)-412(4) within guide 602(1) of first end assembly 110(1) of FIG. 1 when sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) are closed to form top surface 106. FIG. 8B illustrates position of bearings 412(5)-412(8) within guide 602(2) of second end assembly 110(2) of FIG. 1 when sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) are stored beneath table 100 to allow access to craft / gaming surface 200. A level 808 of a first lower portion of guide 602 differs from a level 810 of a second lower portion of guide 602 to allow top portions 102(1) and 102(2) to overlap when stored beneath table 100.
[0049] Guide 602(1) is formed as semicircular curves 812(1) and 812(2) at either end of cross-member 108(1) where a diameter of each semicircular curve 812(1) and 812(2) is equal to or greater than a spacing of bearing 412 on bearing plate 402. Accordingly, bearings 412 may follow semicircular curves 812 to allow rotation of sliding top portion 102(1) from above table 100 to below table 100. Similarly, guide 602(2) is formed as semicircular curves 812(3) and 812(3) at either end of cross-member 108(2) to allow rotation of sliding top portion 102(2) from above table 100 to below table 100.
[0050] Guide 602(1) is formed with a widened area 814(1) and guide 602(2) is formed with a corresponding widened area 814(2) that cooperatively allow lifting of sliding top portion 102(1) to engage bearings 412 into semicircular curves 812(1) and 812(3). Guide 602(1) is also formed with widened areas 814(3) and 814(4) and guide 602(2) is also formed with a corresponding widened areas 814(5) and 814(6) that cooperatively allow lifting of sliding top portion 102(2) to engage bearings 412 into semicircular curves 812(2) and 812(4).
[0051] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustrating example operation of sliding top portion 102(1) of FIG. 1 within guide 602(1) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, in embodiments. References 102(1)′-102(1)″′ denote sequential positions of sliding top portion 102(1) during movement, not distinct elements. Sliding top portion 102(1)′ represent lifting of an outside edge of sliding top portion 102(1) to initiate movement of bearings 412(1) and 412(2) around guide 602(1). Sliding top portion 102(1)″ represents rotation of sliding top portion 102(1) around a rounded portion of guide 602(1). Sliding top portion 102(1)″′ represents positioning of sliding top portion 102(1) at a storage position 900 beneath table 100. Movement of sliding top portion 102(1) is easy and controlled as bearings 412(1) and 412(2) follow a path defined by guide 602(1) in a vertical plane. Advantageously, bearings 412(1) and 412(2) within guide 602(1) support the weight of sliding top portion 102(1) and control motion of sliding top portion 102(1) from the use position of top surface 106 to storage position 900. Particularly, bearings 412(1) and 412(2) on first end and bearings 412(3) and 412(4) on the opposite end control the attitude of sliding top portion 102(1) throughout its travel. Further, bearing plate 402 and bearings 412(1) and 412(2) are captivated in guide 602(1) by a wooden plate 604(1) and bearing plate 402 and bearings 412(3) and 412(4) are captivated in guide 602(2) by a wooden plate 604(2). That is, wooden plate 604(1) and wooden plate 604(2) are sized and shaped to allow movement of sliding top portion 102(1) and sliding top portions 102(2) while retaining bearings 412 within guides 602. Further, center portion 408 of bearing plate 402 slides between first cross-member 108(1) and wooden plate 604(1).
[0052] Bearing plate 402 and bearings 412 of sliding top portion 102(2) are similarly captivated by wooden plate 604(2). Accordingly, wooden plates 604(1) and 604(2) prevent sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) from falling out and also prevent sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) from becoming skewed relative to cross-members 108(1) and 108(2) and table 100. That is, wooden plates 604(1) and 604(2) maintain alignment of sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) with respect to first end assembly 110(1) and second end assembly 110(2) to precent binding between first end assembly 110(1) and second end assembly 110(2) when sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) are moved.Alternative Guide Design
[0053] FIGS. 10A and 10B are end views illustrating alternatively formed guides 1002(1) and 1002(2) within cross-members 1008(1) and 1008(2), respectively, in embodiments. FIG. 11A is a cross-section through cross-members 1008(1) and 1008(2) of FIGS. 10A and 10B and of top portion 102(2) of FIG. 1 illustrating an undercut portion 1004(1) (indicated by dashed line) of guide 1002(1). FIG. 11B is a cross-section through cross-members 1008(1) and 1008(2) of FIGS. 10A and 10B and of top portion 102(1) of FIG. 1 illustrating rectangular sides of guide 1002(1) without undercut. FIGS. 10A, 10B, 11A, and 11B are best viewed together with the following description. Cross-members 1008 are similar to cross-members 108 of FIG. 1 and may be used in place of cross-members 108 to form table 100. Guide 1002(2) is a mirror of guide 1002(1) about a vertical plane. Guides 1002(1) and 1002(2) of FIGS. 10A-11B represent alternative designs to guides 602(1) and 602(2) of FIGS. 6A-8B.
[0054] Guides 1002 provide similar functionality to guides 602 of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, and may be formed in a similar way (e.g., milled using a numerically controlled machine) but guide portions 1004 of guides 1002 have a different cross-sectional shape to prevent bearings 1012 leaving the guide in these portions. Guide portions 1004 support bearings 1012 when top portions 102 are stowed beneath table 100. This alternative design of guides 1002 may also facilitate manufacture of cross-members 1008 from a single material using a numerically controlled milling machine. In the example of FIGS. 10A and 10B, cross-member 1008(1) has three planar surfaces: an outer surface 1022 that defines a thickness of cross-members 1008(1), a middle surface 1024 that forms a top edge of guide 1002, and a channel base 1026 that forms a bottom of guide 1002. However, guides 1002 may be formed by other wood working methods without departing from the scope hereof.
[0055] Guide 1002(1) is formed as semicircular curves 1014(1) and 1014(2) at either end of cross-member 1008(1) where a diameter of each semicircular curve 1014(1) and 1014(2) is equal to or greater than a spacing of bearing 412 on bearing plate 402. Accordingly, bearings 412 may follow semicircular curves 1014 to guide transition of sliding top portion 102(1) from above table 100 to below table 100. Similarly, guide 1002(2) is formed as semicircular curves 1014(3) and 1014(3) at either end of cross-member 1008(2) to guide transition of sliding top portion 102(2) from above table 100 to below table 100.
[0056] Guide 1002(1) is formed with a widened areas 1016(1) and 1016(2) and guide 1002(2) is formed with corresponding widened areas 1016(3) and 1016(4) that cooperatively allow lifting of sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) to engage bearings 412 into semicircular curves 1014(1)-(4). Guide 1002(1) is formed with a two-path area 1018(1) and guide 1002(2) is formed with a corresponding two-path area 1018(2) that cooperatively allow lifting of sliding top portions 102(1) and 102(2) to engage bearings 412 into semicircular curves 1014 (1) and 1014(3).
[0057] FIG. 11A shows a cross-section A-A of guide portions 1004(2) and 1004(4) of guides 1002(1) and 1002(2) supporting bearing 1012(3) and 1012(4), respectively, where sliding top portion 102(2) is positioned beneath table 100. Guide portion 1004(2) is formed with undercuts 1102 such that an outer opening of guide 1002(1) at guide portion 1004(2) has a width that is smaller than an outside diameter of rotating outer portion 1104(1) of bearing 1012(3).
[0058] Guide portion 1004(4) is similarly formed. Advantageously, guide portions 1004 prevent top portions 102 from skewing and jamming within guides 1002.
[0059] FIG. 11B shows a cross-section B-B of portions of guides 1002(1) and 1002(2) external to guide portions 1004(2) and 1004(4), where the channel has a rectangular cross-section, similar to the cross-section of guides 602 of FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 8A, and 8B. As shown, the position of bearings 1012(1), 1012(2), 1012(5) and 1012(6) are a locations where sliding top portion 102(1) is approximately halfway along guides 1002(1) and 1002(2) (e.g., as occurs when sliding top portion 102(1) is being stowed. Accordingly, the portions of guides 1002(1) and 1002(2) that are external to guide portions 1004 are formed with rectangular sides spaced apart by a width slightly larger than a diameter of rotating outer portion 1104 of bearings 1012.
[0060] FIGS. 11A and 11B also show bearings 1012 in further example detail. Each bearing 1012 is formed of a rotating outer portion 1104, a screw 1106, and a spacer 1108, where spacer 1108 maintains a distance between rotating outer portion 1104 and top portion 102 into which screw 1106 is screwed. Rotating outer portion 1104 rolls within guides 1002 to control movement of top portions 102.Side Tray Detail
[0061] FIGS. 12A and 12B are isometric views of table 100 of FIG. 1 illustrating one example pivot mechanism 1202 at one end of side tray 202(1), in embodiments. FIG. 12C is a front elevation of pivot mechanism 1202 of FIGS. 12A and 12B, in embodiments. FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C are best viewed together with the following description. For clarity of illustration, cross-member 108 is simplified, and top portions 102 and frame 112 are omitted.
[0062] Pivot mechanism 1202 includes a pin 1204 positioned in base-side 206(1) and a corresponding aperture 1206 formed in an end of side tray 202(1). Pin 1204 and corresponding aperture 1206 are positioned such that side tray 202(1) may rotate 180 degrees between open (deployed as illustrated in FIGS. 12A and 12B) and closed (e.g., folded inwards), where frame 112(1) is inverted and resting on gaming surface 200. A washer 1208 may be positioned on pin 1204 between base-side 206(1) and side tray 202(1) to prevent rubbing therebetween. A second pivot mechanism is formed at the other end of side tray 202(1). When closed, side tray 202(1) lies flat on gaming surface 200 and has a height that causes side tray 202(1) to support sliding top portion 102(1) when positioned to form top surface 106. In certain embodiments, when deployed (e.g., open), side tray 202(1) rotates to rest on frame 112(1), which may be slightly higher than gaming surface 200 whereby frame 112(1) supports side tray 202(1) in the deployed position after rotating approximately 180 degrees from the closed position. That is, rotation of side tray 202(1) is limited by contact of side tray 202(1) with gaming surface 200 in the closed position and by contact with frame 112(1) in the open position. Side tray 202(2) and end trays 204(1) and 204(2) may use similar pivot mechanisms and when closed, side tray 202(2) may support sliding top portions 102(2) when positioned to form top surface 106.
[0063] FIG. 13 is an isometric view of table 100 of FIG. 1 illustrating an alternative side tray 1302 with a modular accessory holder 1304, in embodiments. For clarity of illustration, cross-member 108 is simplified, and top portions 102 and frame 112 are omitted. Side tray 1302 may be used in place of side tray 202(1) of FIG. 2, for example. Side tray 1302 may be hinged as shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, such that side tray 1302 rotates 180 degrees from a stowed position that is inverted and a deployed position as shown in FIG. 13. Other portions of table 100 are omitted for clarity of illustration; however, table 100 may include other above described functionality. Side tray 1302 is described in the following examples, however, table 100 may include a second side tray, positioned opposite side tray 1302 to replace side tray 202(2), and may include one or more end trays configured with at least one keyed recess 1306 (e.g., similarly to side tray 1302). For example, end trays configured with keyed recesses 1306 may replace end trays 204(1) and 204(2) of FIG. 2. Accordingly, modular accessory holder 1304 may interchangeably mount to any of the keyed recesses 1306 in any of the side and / or end trays, and thus table 100 may include any combination of end trays and side trays without departing from the scope hereof. Advantageously, modular accessory holder 1304 extends the useful workspace of side tray 1302 and / or end trays.
[0064] Side tray 1302 forms at least one keyed recess 1306 for removably receiving modular accessory holder 1304. Accordingly, modular accessory holder 1304 may be attached to side tray 1302 to hold game pieces or other items when gaming surface 200 is being used and removed from side tray 1302 and laid flat on gaming surface 200 for storage within table 100 when side tray 1302 and top portions 102 are to be closed. Advantageously, game pieces or other items stored on side tray 1302 need not be removed for storage. In certain embodiments, the space between gaming surface 200 and a bottom surface of top portion 102 is three and two-thirds inches. Where side tray 202(1) has a height of three-and-a-half inches, there remains a clearance of one-sixth of an inch, for example. Where side tray 1302 includes multiple keyed recesses 1306, modular accessory holder 1304 may be interchangeably coupled with any of the keyed recesses. Modular accessory holder 1304 and keyed recess 1306 are described in further detail below and shown in FIGS. 14, 15A, 15B, 16A, 16B, 16C, and 16D.
[0065] Modular accessory holder 1304 is illustrated with forty recesses 1308 formed in a top surface 1310 of modular accessory holder 1304. In this example, recesses 1308 are circular and may be used for storing game pieces or other small items. For example, recesses 1308 are provided to prevent game pieces or other items from easily sliding off of top surface 1310.
[0066] However, top surface 1310 of modular accessory holder 1304 may be flat, or may be formed with a different number of and / or shape of recesses without departing from the scope hereof. For example, multiple modular accessory holders 1304 may be provided with different configurations of recesses 1308 for use with different items and / or for other uses of table 100. In one example where table 100 is used for needlework crafting, modular accessory holder 1304 is configured with recesses that store sewing items such as different colored reels of thread, scissors, and / or needles. In another example, top surface 1310 forms rectangular recesses with a semicircular profile for storing gaming chips. In another example, top surface 1310 forms slots for holding cards. In another example, top surface 1310 forms a well for dice. Top surface 1310 may be formed with any combination of recess that is advantageous for use of table 100. In addition to supporting gaming activities by holding game pieces, cards, dice, and / or chips for various tabletop games, side trays 1302, modular accessory holders 1304, and / or keyed recesses 1306 may be adapted for a wide range of alternative uses. For example, top surface 1310 may be configured to serve as organizers for office items such as pens, smartphones, keyboards, or notepads; provide recessed areas for puzzle piece sorting; or accommodate hobby tools such as pliers, screwdrivers, and measuring scales. Additional configurations may include paint palettes, Lego assembly platforms, or other specialized inserts. These examples are illustrative and not limiting, and the trays and holders may be configured for any other use that benefits from removable, modular storage or organization.
[0067] FIG. 14 is an isometric view illustrating keyed recess 1306 in side tray 1302 of FIG. 13 in further example detail, in embodiments. FIG. 15A is an isometric top view of modular accessory holder 1304 of FIG. 13 illustrating further example detail, in embodiments.
[0068] FIG. 15B is an isometric bottom view of modular accessory holder 1304 of FIG. 13 illustrating further example detail, in embodiments. FIG. 16A is a top view of modular accessory holder 1304 of FIG. 13. FIG. 16B is a bottom view of modular accessory holder 1304 of FIG. 13. FIG. 16C is a rear view of modular accessory holder 1304 of FIG. 13. FIG. 16D is a side view of modular accessory holder 1304 of FIG. 13. FIGS. 14, 15A, 15B, 16A, 16B, 16C, and 16D are best viewed together with the following description.
[0069] Side tray 1302, modular accessory holder 1304 and keyed recess 1306 form a tray apparatus that increases utility of table 100. Side tray 1302 may be formed from a single piece of material (e.g., wood, composites, plastic, and metal) that is processed (e.g., milled, routed, drilled, etc.) to form keyed recess 1306 and other useful recesses such as at least one cup holder 1402. Suitable material include hardwoods (oak, maple), engineered wood, plastics (e.g., ABS), and aluminum. Depending the material used, different surface finishes may be applied. For example, varnish, polyurethane may be used for wood; anodizing used for aluminum; and textured or matte finish used for plastics. Advantageously, these finishes may increase durability, cleanability, and provide low friction for keyed interface.
[0070] Edge treatments may be applied, such as ⅛″ radius on recesses and cup holders for easy cleaning. In certain embodiments, table 100 may form or include one or more of drain grooves, liners, spill lips, and gasket on top edge for spill protection during meals.
[0071] Keyed recess 1306 is substantially trapezoidal and open on an outside edge 1404, where a back edge 1406 is shorter than outside edge 1404 and side edges 1408(1) and 1408(2) are symmetrical and angled relative to one another. Edges 1406 and 1408 are formed with an undercut 1410. One or more slots 1412, 1414, 1416, and / or other shaped recesses, may be formed in a bottom surface 1418 of keyed recess 1306 that allow use of side tray 1302 without modular accessory holder 1304.
[0072] In certain embodiments, the space between craft / gaming surface 200 and an underside of top portions 102 provides a clearance suitable for storing modular accessory holder 1304 and other items. For example, the clearance may be approximately three and two-thirds inches, allowing storage of holders and stored accessories and items having a total thickness of about three inches. Undercuts 1410 may have a depth and width of approximately three-sixteenths of an inch, with a clearance tolerance (e.g., 0.02 inches) to permit smooth sliding engagement while minimizing wobble. Bevels or chamfers may be provided on keyed edges, for instance at an angle of about 45 degrees and a depth of about one-sixteenth of an inch, to facilitate insertion and removal. These dimensions are provided as non-limiting examples, and other sizes, tolerances, and configurations may be used depending on material selection, manufacturing processes, and intended accessory designs.
[0073] Modular accessory holder 1304 is formed with a lower section 1502, opposite top surface 1310, that is substantially trapezoidal and sized and shaped to match keyed recess 1306, where a back edge 1506 and side edges 1508(1) and 1508(2) are formed with an undercut 1510 such that back edge 1506 and side edges 1508(1) and 1508(2) slide into undercut 1410 of keyed recess 1306 when keyed recess 1306 couples with side tray 1302. Back edge 1506 is substantially parallel to a front edge 1504 of modular accessory holder 1304; however, 1304 and keyed recess 1306 may use shapes other than the trapezoid without departing form the scope hereof.
[0074] Modular accessory holder 1304 may be formed from a single piece of material (e.g., wood) that is processed (e.g., milled, routed, drilled, etc.) to form recesses 1308 in top surface 1310, and back edge 1506, side edges 1508, and undercut 1510 of lower section 1502.
[0075] Alternatively, modular accessory holder 1304 is formed of multiple layers that are independently processed and then joined together to form modular accessory holder 1304. Suitable material include hardwoods (oak, maple), engineered wood, plastics (e.g., ABS), and metals (e.g., aluminum). Depending the material used, different surface finishes may be applied. For example, varnish, polyurethane may be used for wood; anodizing used for aluminum; and textured or matte finish used for plastics. Advantageously, these finishes may increase durability, cleanability, and provide low friction for keyed interface.
[0076] Modular accessory holder 1304 and keyed recess 1306 mechanically interlock (e.g., through keying between lower section 1502 of modular accessory holder 1304 and undercut 1410 of keyed recess 1306) modular accessory holder 1304 to table 100 to prevent modular accessory holder 1304 from tipping when in use. As used herein, ‘undercut’ refers to a recessed edge portion that provides a mechanical interference fit with a complementary edge of the modular accessory holder, thereby forming a keyed engagement. Specifically, back edge 1506 and side edges 1508 of lower section 1502 slide into undercut 1410 of back edge 1406 and side edges 1408 of keyed recess 1306 such that modular accessory holder 1304 is mechanically secured to side tray 1302 to prevent modular accessory holder 1304 from tipping. Friction between side edges 1408 of keyed recess 1306 and side edges 1508 of modular accessory holder 1304 retain modular accessory holder 1304 within keyed recess 1306.
[0077] FIG. 17A is a perspective view of side tray 1302 of FIG. 13 with two keyed recesses 1306(1) and 1306(2), in embodiments. FIG. 17B is a perspective view of side tray 1302 of FIG. 17A with one example modular accessory holder 1304 mounted within keyed recess 1306(1) of FIG. 17A, in embodiments. Advantageously, side tray 1302 may be used with or without modular accessory holders 1304, and modular accessory holder 1304 may be fitted into any of keyed recesses 1306. In the example of FIG. 17B, modular accessory holder 1304 has a substantially flat top surface 1310, allowing modular accessory holder 1304 to be used for may different purposes.
[0078] FIGS. 18A, 18B and 18C are schematic diagrams illustrating a portion of one example side tray 1802 and a modular accessory holder 1804 design that allows modular accessory holder 1804 be angled, in embodiments. Side tray 1802 may represent any one of side trays 202 and end trays 204 of FIG. 2, and modular accessory holder 1804 may represent modular accessory holder 1304 of FIG. 15. The following example illustrate use of modular accessory holder 1804 for playing cards; however, modular accessory holder 1804 may have other design for use with other tasks, crafts, and games without departing from the scope hereof. In the example of FIG. 18A, modular accessory holder 1804 forms (e.g., milled) two slots 1808 in an upper surface 1810 for receiving and holding playing cards or similar items, and upper surface 1810 also include a baize area 1812 for facilitating card manipulation.
[0079] As shown in FIG. 18C, side tray 1802 forms a keyed recess 1806 with a semicircular shape that is open at a front edge 1814 of side tray 1802. Keyed recess 1806 thereby forms a mid-surface 1820 that is lower than a top surface 1822 of side tray 1802. An inside edge 1816 of keyed recess 1806 (e.g., the semicircle) is formed with an undercut 1818 (e.g., milled) that is similar to undercuts 1406 and 1410 of FIG. 14.
[0080] As shown in FIG. 18B, modular accessory holder 1804 forms a circular segment 1830, in a bottom surface 1832 of modular accessory holder 1804, that has a similar radius to a radius of the semicircular shape of keyed recess 1806. Circular segment 1830 may be tangential to a back edge 1834 of modular accessory holder 1804. An outer edge 1836 of circular segment 1830 forms an undercut 1838 such that outer edge 1836 may slot into undercut 1818 of keyed recess 1806. Since both keyed recess 1806 and circular segment 1830 are similarly sized and circular in shape, circular segment 1830 may slot into keyed recess 1806 straight or at an angle. Advantageously, a user may position modular accessory holder 1804 an angle to prevent a game opponent sitting adjacent the user from viewing the user's view cards held within slots 1808.
[0081] Changes may be made in the above methods and systems without departing from the scope hereof. It should thus be noted that the matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The following claims are intended to cover all generic and specific features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the present method and system, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.
Claims
1. A table comprising:a craft / gaming surface;a side tray mounted along a side of the table by a pivot mechanism including a pin positioned in a base-side of the table and a corresponding aperture formed in an end of the side tray, the side tray being rotatable between a deployed position and an inverted stowed position;a keyed recess formed in the side tray, the keyed recess being open at an outside edge of the side tray and having a back edge shorter than the outside edge, two side edges, and undercuts along at least the back edge and the side edges; anda modular accessory holder removably received in the keyed recess, the holder having a lower section, shaped to match the keyed recess and having a back edge and side edges with undercuts, that slides into the undercuts of the keyed recess to mechanically interlock the modular accessory holder with the side tray to prevent the modular accessory holder from tipping.
2. The table of claim 1, wherein the side tray is rotatable by the pivot mechanism through approximately 180 degrees between the inverted stowed position and the deployed position.
3. The table of claim 1, wherein, in the inverted stowed position, the side tray presents a height that supports at least one sliding top portion of a split sliding top of the table when the split sliding top is closed.
4. The table of claim 3, wherein the split sliding top comprises first and second sliding top portions supported by bearings that follow semicircular curves within guides formed in cross-members of end assemblies of the table to transition the sliding top portions between a use position over the craft / gaming surface and a storage position beneath the craft / gaming surface.
5. The table of claim 4, wherein portions of the guides are undercut to retain the bearings when the sliding top portions are stowed beneath the craft / gaming surface.
6. The table of claim 3, wherein the modular accessory holder is configured to be removed from the keyed recess and to be placed flat upon the craft / gaming surface for storage beneath the split sliding top.
7. The table of claim 1, wherein the modular accessory holder comprises a top surface having plurality of recesses configured to receive items for use with the table.
8. The table of claim 1, wherein the side tray comprises two keyed recesses and the modular accessory holder is interchangeably receivable in either of the two keyed recesses.
9. The table of claim 1, further comprising an end tray having a second keyed recess configured as the keyed recess of the side tray, the modular accessory holder being receivable in the second keyed recess.
10. A tray apparatus for a table, comprising:a side tray;a pivot mechanism configured to mount the side tray to a base-side of a table and to allow rotation of the side tray between a deployed position and a stowed position, the pivot mechanism including a pin mounted in the base-side and an aperture formed in an end of the side tray; anda keyed recess formed in the side tray, the keyed recess being open at an outside edge of the side tray, having a back edge shorter than the outside edge, two symmetric angled side edges, and undercuts along at least the back edge and the side edges to mechanically interlock with a modular accessory holder.
11. The tray apparatus of claim 10, wherein the side tray is formed from a single piece of material processed by milling, routing, or drilling to form the keyed recess and the undercuts.
12. The tray apparatus of claim 10, wherein the open outside edge allows lateral insertion of the modular accessory holder before sliding engagement of undercut edges of the modular accessory holder with the undercuts of the keyed recess.
13. The tray apparatus of claim 10, wherein the side edges are symmetric and angled relative to one another and the back edge is shorter than the outside edge.
14. The tray apparatus of claim 10, wherein a second pivot mechanism is formed at an opposite end of the side tray.
15. The tray apparatus of claim 10, wherein the aperture extends through at least part of a thickness of the end of the side tray and the pin is rigidly mounted in the base-side.
16. The tray apparatus of claim 10, wherein the side tray is configured, when mounted to the table, to lie upon a craft / gaming surface of the table in the stowed position and to support at least a portion of a split sliding top of the table when closed.
17. A modular accessory holder configured for removable retention in a keyed recess of a table, the modular holder comprising:a top surface having a plurality of recesses for storing game pieces or other items; anda lower section shaped to match the keyed recess and having an undercut in an external edge of the lower section, the lower section configured to slide into a corresponding undercut of the keyed recess to mechanically interlock the modular holder with the table to prevent tipping.
18. The modular accessory holder of claim 17, wherein the modular holder is formed of a single piece of material processed to form the recesses in the top surface and the undercuts of the lower section.
19. The modular accessory holder of claim 17, wherein the modular holder is formed of multiple layers joined together.
20. The modular accessory holder of claim 17, wherein the keyed recess has a semicircular shape with an undercut along an inner curved edge, and the lower section includes a circular segment with a complementary undercut configured to engage the keyed recess such that the modular accessory holder is selectively positionable at different angular orientations within the keyed recess.