Collapsible desk and storage apparatus therefor

Abstract

A collapsible portable desk including a working surface and stowable legs that may also serve as a handle for retrieving and / or transporting the collapsible portable desk. When two or more legs are in a collapsed position, the desk may lay flat for use in the collapsible position. In the collapsible position at least one or more legs may serve as a handle. Also, in the collapsed position the desk may slide into a storage apparatus so that the handle is accessible, such as through the use of an overhang on the working surface and a rail system. When the two or more legs are in an extended position, the desk may be used in a seated position.

Description

COLLAPSIBLE DESK AND STORAGE APPARATUS THEREFORCROSS REFERENCE AND PRIORITY CLAIM

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 696,594 entitled ‘Collapsible Desk and Storage Apparatus Therefor’ filed on September 19th. 2024, which is assigned to the assignee hereof and the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to a collapsible portable desk, and in particular a collapsible desk including two or more legs that are moveable between an expandable position and a retracted position, wherein the collapsible desk may be utilized in a collapsed position or an expandable position, and moreover, a plurality of collapsible desks may be stored within a storage apparatus with an accessible handle when in the collapsed position and / or stacked on top of one another.BACKGROUND

[0003] Portable desks may be available that allow a user to stow the desks in a retracted position and open the desk when needed. However, traditional desks may have issues that make them inefficient and / or difficult to use. There is a need for improved portable desks.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a collapsible portable desk including a working surface and stowable legs that may also sen e as a handle for retrieving and / or transporting the collapsible portable desk. When the two or more legs are in a collapsed position, the desk may lay flat for use in the collapsible position. The in the collapsible position at least one of the one or more legs may serve as a handle, a handle may be located in an apron, and / or a handle may be located in working surface. Also, in the collapsed position the desk may slide into a storageapparatus so that the handle is accessible. The desk may slide through rails in the storage apparatus and the use of an overhang lip on the working surface, a surface of the apron, a portion of the legs, or other like feature of the desk. Alternatively, or additionally, the desks may be stacked using a stacking member that restricts the movement of the stacked desks. Furthermore, when the two or more legs are in an extended position, the desk may be used in a seated position. In some embodiments, the two or more legs may allow the desk to be used an angle between zero (0) and ninety (90) degrees. In still other embodiments, the working surfaces of adjacent desks may interact (e.g., placed next to each other, connected, and / or interlock) when the desks are in the collapsed or extended position, such that a larger work surface may be formed.

[0005] Embodiments of the invention comprise a storage apparatus. The storage apparatus comprises a plurality of support members configured to define one or more cavities and a rail system. The rail system comprises a plurality of rails operatively coupled to the one or more support members of the plurality of support members. The storage apparatus further comprises a plurality' of collapsible desks configured for stowing within the one or more cavities. A collapsible desk comprises a working surface portion, two or more collapsible legs portions operatively coupled to the working surface portion, and a handle. The collapsible desk is configured for an extendable position in which the two or more collapsible legs are extended for use on a floor. The collapsible desk is configured for a collapsible position in which the two or more collapsible legs are retracted for stowing in the one or more cavities. The handle is accessible in the collapsible position when the collapsible desk is in the collapsible position and stored within the one or more cavities.

[0006] In further accord with embodiments, the working surface of the collapsible desk comprises one or more edges and the working surface defines a handle aperture from an upper surface to a lower surface adjacent a side edge of the working surface that defines a working surface handle that forms the handle. The handle is accessible when the collapsible desk is stowed within the one or more cavities.

[0007] In other embodiments, at least one of the two or more collapsible legs of the collapsible desk defines a leg handle that forms the handle when the collapsible desk is located in the collapsible position. The handle is accessible when the collapsible desk is stow ed within the one or more cavities.

[0008] In still other embodiments, the tw o or more collapsible legs rotate with respect to the working surface to configure the collapsible desk between the collapsible position and the expanded position.

[0009] In yet other embodiments, in the collapsible position the handle is assessable when the collapsible desk is stowed within the one or more cavities, and the handle supports thecollapsible desk on a floor for use in the collapsible position when the collapsible desk is in the collapsible position.

[0010] In other embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs are telescoping legs that are configured to be retracted into the collapsible position and expanded into the extendable position.

[0011] In further accord with embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs comprise two legs each located adjacent opposite side edges of the working surface.

[0012] In other embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs comprise three legs, wherein two legs are located adjacent opposite side edges of the working surface, and a third leg is located adjacent a back edge of the working surface.

[0013] In yet other embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs comprise four legs located adjacent opposite side edges and / or opposite front and back edges of the working surface

[0014] In still other embodiments, the storage apparatus further comprises a plurality of compartments configured to be at least partially removeable from the one or more cavities.

[0015] In other embodiments, the storage apparatus further comprises one or more hangers operatively coupled to the one or more support members. An at least one collapsible desk of the plurality of collapsible desks are configured for hanging on the one or more hangers.

[0016] Other embodiments of the invention comprise a collapsible desk. The collapsible desk comprises a working surface portion, two or more collapsible legs portions operatively coupled to the working surface portion, and a handle. The collapsible desk is configured to be extended to an extendable position in which the two or more collapsible legs are extended for use on a floor. The collapsible desk is configured to be retracted to a collapsible position in which the two or more collapsible legs are retracted for stowing in a storage apparatus or for use on the floor. The handle is accessible in the collapsible position when the collapsible desk is in the collapsible position and stored within the storage apparatus.

[0017] In further accord with embodiments, the working surface comprises one or more edges and defines a handle aperture from an upper surface to a lower surface adjacent a side edge of the working surface that defines a working surface handle that forms the handle. The handle is accessible when the collapsible desk is stowed within the storage apparatus.

[0018] In other embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs of the collapsible desk defines a leg handle that forms the handle when the collapsible desk is located in the collapsible position. The handle is accessible when the collapsible desk is stowed within the storage apparatus.

[0019] In still other embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs rotate with respect to the working surface to configure the collapsible desk between the collapsible position and the expanded position.

[0020] In yet other embodiments, in the collapsible position the handle is assessable when the collapsible desk is stowed within the storage apparatus, and the handle supports the collapsible desk on a floor for use in the collapsible position when the collapsible desk is in the collapsible position.

[0021] In other embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs are telescoping legs that are configured to be retracted in the collapsible position and expanded into the extendable position.

[0022] In further accord with embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs comprise two legs each located adjacent opposite side edges of the working surface.

[0023] In other embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs comprise three legs. Two legs are located adj acent opposite side edges of the working surface portion, and a third leg is located adjacent a back edge of the working surface.

[0024] In still other embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs comprise four legs located adjacent opposite side edges and / or opposite front and back edges of the working surface portion.

[0025] In yet other embodiments, the two or more collapsible legs comprise one or more grips that provide a griping surface for use on the floor or for stacking.

[0026] In other embodiments, the working surface portion comprises a left edge and a right edge that are configured to be coupled with an adjacent left edge and an adjacent right edge of an adjacent working surface of an adjacent collapsible desk to form a larger working surface.

[0027] Other embodiments of the invention comprise a plurality of stackable collapsible desks. Each collapsible desk comprises a working surface portion, two or more collapsible legs portions operatively coupled to the working surface portion, and a handle. The collapsible desk is configured to be extended to an extendable position in which the two or more collapsible legs are extended for use on a floor. The collapsible desk is configured to be retracted to a collapsible position in which the two or more collapsible legs are retracted for stacking with another collapsible desk.

[0028] To the accomplishment the foregoing and the related ends, the one or more embodiments comprise the features hereinafter described and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following description and the annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative features of the one or more embodiments. These features are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of various embodiments may be employed, and this description is intended to include all such embodiments and their equivalents.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] FIG. 1 is a top view of a collapsible portable desk having a working surface, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a collapsible portable desk with the working surface and pivotally connected legs with an integrated handle in an extended position, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 3 is a perspective side view of the collapsible portable desk of FIG. 2 in a collapsible position with the legs retracted and having an integrated handle and floor grips, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the collapsible portable desk of FIG. 3 with the legs collapsed and clasped, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a plurality of collapsible portable desks with the legs in the retracted position, and stowed in a mobile storage apparatus with the handles accessible, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 6 is a top view of a collapsible portable desk having a working surface, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a collapsible portable desk with the working surface and pivotally connected legs in an extended position with a handle located in the apron, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 8 is a perspective side view of the collapsible portable desk of FIG. 7 in a collapsible position with the legs retracted and having floor grips and a handle in the apron, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the collapsible portable desk of FIG. 8 with the legs retracted and clasped, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a plurality of collapsible portable desks with the legs in the collapsed position, the handles accessible, and stowed in a mobile storage apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] FIG. HA is a perspective view of a collapsible portable desk with the working surface and telescoping legs in an extended position with a handle located in the apron, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 1 IB is a bottom view of the collapsible portable desk with the legs retracted and at least partially overlapping, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 12A is a top view of a working surface for the collapsible desk, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0042] FIG. 12B is a top view of a working surface for the collapsible desk, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0043] FIG. 12C is a top view of a working surface for the collapsible desk, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0044] FIG. 12D is a top view of a working surface for the collapsible desk, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0045] FIG. 12E is a top view of a working surface for the collapsible desk, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0046] FIG. 12F is a top view of a working surface for the collapsible desk, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0047] FIG. 12H is a top view of a working surface for the collapsible desk, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0048] FIG. 13 A illustrates a perspective view of the collapsible desks stacked, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0049] FIG. 13B illustrates an end view of the collapsible desks stacked, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of a plurality of collapsible portable desks with the legs in the collapsed position, the handles accessible, and stowed in a mobile storage apparatus that is also used to stow other components, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] FIGS. 1-14 illustrate collapsible portable desks, and / or the uses thereof, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated in the figures, the collapsible portable desk 1 (otherwise described as, a collapsible desk, a portable desk, desk, or the like) may have a working surface 2 (otherwise described as a writing surface, or the like), which may have an ergonomic and / or curved surface, which will be described in further detail below with respect to FIGS. 12A-12G. Moreover, the collapsible portable desk 1 includes stowable legs 10 that may also serve as a handle for retrieving and / or transporting the collapsible portable desk 1. When the two or more legs 10 are in a collapsed position, the desk 1 may lay flat for use in the collapsible position. The in the collapsible position at least one of the one or more legs may serve as a handle. Also, in the collapsed position the desk 1 may slide into a storage apparatus so that the handle is accessible.such as through the use of an overhang lip on the working surface. Alternatively, or additionally, the desks 1 may be stacked using a stacking member that restricts the movement of the stacked desks. The collapsible portable desk 1 can be made of any suitable material using any suitable manufacturing process. Preferably the material chosen for the collapsible portable desk 1 is a lightweight material for easy transportability, and a durable material for safety and stability.

[0052] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-1 IB, the collapsible portable desk 1 may have two or more legs 10 that can be moved between a retracted position (otherwise described as collapsible position) and an extended position. In the illustrated embodiment, the legs 10 comprise a first side leg 12 (e.g., left side leg, or the like) and a second side leg 14 (e.g., right side leg, or the like). However, the legs 10 comprise a front leg and a rear leg, multiple legs at the comers (or other locations, or the like). Moreover, as will be described in further detail later there may be any number of legs (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, or the like). While any type of legs 10 may be used (e.g., telescoping, or the like), in the illustrated embodiments in FIGS. 1-1 IB, the two or more legs 10 may be pivotably coupled to the working surface 2, such as through the use of any connectors (e.g., hinges, clamps, brackets, clips, magnets, fasteners, such as screws, bolts, nuts, rivets, or the like), such as pivot connectors 4. In some embodiments the legs 10 (e.g., the first leg 12 and / or the second leg 14. or the like) may be configured to extend and / or retract individually or jointly. That is, in some embodiments, the first leg and the second leg 14 may be extended and / or retracted at the same time (e.g., moving one leg moves another leg at the same time).

[0053] As previously discussed, the legs 10 may be any type of legs, such as telescoping legs 10 as illustrated in FIG. 11 A. As such, the four legs 10 illustrated may each be telescoping legs that have two or more segments that move individually (e.g., retracted and extended individually, or the like). In other embodiments, two or more legs 10 having the segments may be retracted and / or extend at the same time. It should be understood that the one or more legs 10 may retract and / or extend in a number of different ways, such as using apertures and / or biasing members (e.g., spring loaded buttons, or the like), apertures and quick removal fasteners, rotational members (e.g., retracting and extending through rotational movement of the leg segments with respect to each other), or other telescoping mechanisms.

[0054] Moreover, instead of the legs 10 being folded adjacent to each other, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 9, the one or more legs 10 (e.g., four legs, or the like) may fold at least partially over each other, as illustrated in FIG. 11B (e.g. one side inside the other as illustrated, or alternating so the legs on each side are spaced evenly). Additionally , combinations of different legs 10 described herein may be utilized. For example, the legs 10 may fold past each other, as illustrated in FIG. 1 IB, and also telescope, as illustrated in FIG. 1 1 A, in order to allow for additional adjustment and / orextended height of the desk 1 (e.g., for use in the standing position or to account for different sized users).

[0055] Returning to the folding legs 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-1 IB, the pivot connectors 4 may be any type of connector 4 as noted above (e.g., clamp, bracket, or the like), but in particular embodiments may be a hinge connector 7 that connects the leg 10 to the working surface 2. The hinge 7 may be a geared hinge (e.g., teeth connection, or the like), knuckle hinge (e.g., using barrels and pins, or the like), or the like that is secured to the work surface 2. In some embodiments, the hinge 7 may comprise a suitable mechanical hinge, friction hinge, or the like. Moreover, the hinge 7 may be formed by metal, plastic, composite material, or the like. In some embodiments, the hinge 7 may be a thin fdm or an injection molded hinge.

[0056] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 9, the legs 10 may be held in extended and / or retracted positions (otherwise described as open or closed positions) through the use of locking connectors 8 that may lock the legs 10 to each other, to the working surface 2, to another support member (e.g., cross -bracing, or the like), or the like, or combinations thereof. For example, when the legs 10 are in the retracted position, they may be secured to the working surface 2 by a clip, magnet, interlocking connector, or other locking connector 8 for safety and stability. In some examples the clip may couple a least a portion of adjacent legs 10, couple a leg 10 to the working surface 2, couple the leg 10 to an apron 3, or the like). In other embodiments, one or more magnets may be used to couple the legs 10 in the retracted and / or in the extended position (e.g., held open or held closed). The one or more magnets may be located in the hinge 7, adjacent the hinge 7, in the legs 10, working surface 2, apron 3, an adjacent leg 10, or the like location. In other examples, an interlocking connector may be used to keep the legs 10 in a retracted and / or extended position. The interlocking connector may be one or more projections and / or one or more recesses in a leg 10, the working surface 2, the apron 3, an adjacent leg 10, or the like. For example, one or more projections of a first leg 12 may interlock with one or more adjacent projections and / or recesses in a second leg 14 that lock into place (e.g., snap into and out place with each other, or the like). The one or more projections and / or one or more recesses can be made of any material and may be coupled to the legs 10 (e.g., integral with, attached to, or the like). In some embodiments, the one or more projections and / or recesses are molded into the legs 10 when the legs 10 are formed.

[0057] In the retracted or closed position, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 8, the collapsible portable desk 1 may be used as a floor-level working desk. As such, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 8, the portable desk 1 may comprise grips 6 that may provide stability and / or friction between the collapsible portable desk 1 and floor surface (e.g., concrete, vinal, carpet, wood, epoxy, or the like) for safety, as well as provide protection to the floor surface. In some embodiments, the grips 6 maybe located on the legs 10, such that they are utilized when the legs 10 are in the retracted position. Alternatively, or additionally, the grips 6 may be located on the apron 3 and / or working surface 2 (e.g., underside, edge, or the like) such that the grips 6 may be utilized when the legs 10 are retracted. The grips 6 may provide grip and friction when the desks 1 are stacked one atop the other and / or when using the desks 1 on the floor. It should be understood that the grips 6 may be comprised of any material, however, in specific embodiments the grips 6 may be formed of nylon, rubber, foam, felt, or any other suitable material.

[0058] The collapsible portable desk 1 may include one or more handles 30 in the working surface 2 (e.g., a working surface handle coupled within and / or to the edge, top, or bottom thereol), in a desk apron 3 coupled to the working surface 2 (e.g., an apron handle coupled within and / or to the apron 3), and / or in the in the legs 10 themselves (e.g., a leg handle coupled within and / or to the one or more legs 10). In some embodiments of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, the handle 30 (e.g., a leg handle) is incorporated into one or more of the legs 10 (e.g., integrally operatively coupled, or the like), such as a first leg 12 and / or a second leg 14. Regardless of how the legs 10 may be coupled to the working surface 2. when the legs 10 are in the extended position, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the handle 30 may be at least partially concealed (e.g., by the working surface 2. the legs 10 themselves, the apron 3, and / or the like) or fully concealed. However, when the legs 10 are in the collapsed position, as illustrated in FIG. 3 the handle 30 may be accessible, and thus making the collapsible portable desk 1 easier to transport and / or stow, as will be discussed in further detail. For example, in a particular embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the one or more legs 10 may be an integral component such that a leg 10 and handle 30 are one complete piece (e.g., integral plastic molded component, or the like). As such, the leg with the integrated leg handle may rotate together such that when retracted (e.g., folded, or the like), the leg handle is exposed, and when extended, the leg handle is concealed under and / or by the working surface 2.

[0059] As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, in other embodiments, the handle 30 (e.g., apron handle) may be located in the apron 3 (e.g., a side wall attached to the working surface 2). For example, in one preferred embodiment of this invention, the handle 30 is incorporated in the wall 13 of the apron 3, which encases the legs 10 and / or pivot connectors 4 (e.g., hinge connectors 7, or the like). In one embodiment of the invention, the apron 3 may be made of any material, such as wood, metal, composite material, any suitable material, or the like, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the apron 3, and thus the handle 30 in some embodiments, may be injected molded. As illustrated, the handle 30 may be visible and useable when the legs 10 are in the retracted and / or extended position.

[0060] It should be understood that while the handles 30 are illustrated as being located on the right or left sides of the desk 1, additionally, or alternatively, the handles 30 may be located in the rear or front of the desk 1. Regardless of the location of the handles 30, one or more of the handles 30 may be accessible when the legs 10 of the desk 1 are retracted and / or extended, and / or when stored. For example, the handles 30 may be accessible when stowed in a storage apparatus 200, as will be described in further detail below.

[0061] As illustrated in FIGS. 5, 10. and 14 in some embodiments of this invention, a number of portable desks 1 may be stowable in a storage apparatus 200 (e.g., a storage tower, or the like). In some embodiments, each of desks 1 may include one or more lips 9. In some embodiments, the desk 1 may having tw o or more lips 9 may be on opposed edges of the working surface 2, such as the left and right edges of the working surface 2. Alternatively, the two or more lips 9 may be located on front and rear edges of the working surface 2. In other embodiments, the lips 9 may be located on left, right, rear, and front edges of the w orking surface. As such, it should be understood that the one or more lips 9 may be a continuous lip, discontinuous lips and / or combinations thereof on one or more of the edges of the working surface. Furthermore, it should be understood that the lips 9 may be integral with the working surface 2, the apron 3. and / or the legs 10. Alternatively, the lips 9 may be separate components that are coupled to the working surface 2, the apron 3, and / or the legs 10 of the desk 1. For example, the lips 9 may be any type of projection that extends from the any portion of the desk 1.

[0062] Regardless of the configuration of the lips 9, the lips 9 may be configured to slide into and / or out of the storage apparatus 200. The storage apparatus 200 may be formed from a plurality of support members. The support members may be solid members (e.g., walls. floor, sides, backing, top, or the like), rod members (e.g., tubes, L-shaped. U-shaped, uniform, non-uniform, or the like shaped members), or the like members, or combinations thereof that form the structure of the storage apparatus 200. The support apparatus 200 may comprise a rail system 210 for storing the desks 1 and / or the other components 220 described herein. For example, the storage apparatus 200 may have a plurality of support members (e.g., walls, or the like) that define one or more storage cavities (e.g.. closed on one or more sides by a solid support member and / or at least partially open one or more sides by a rod support member) within the storage apparatus 200. Rails 212 (otherwise described at tracks, or the like) may be coupled to the walls (e.g., through rail connectors, similar to or different than the connectors previously described herein). As such, regardless of the configuration, the lips 9 and rail system 210, allow' the desks 1 to slide w ithin and out of the storage apparatus 200 such that the handles 30 of the desk 1 are accessible when stowed. In some embodiments, the desks 1 may be stowed in different orientations such that the handles 30 areaccessible, such as with the left or right sides extending outwardly, the rear or front side extending outwardly, or combinations thereof. As such, the desks 1 may be configured to be stowed in only one orientation when there is only one handle 30, or in multiple orientations when there are multiple handles 30. Regardless of the configuration, the desks 1 can be easily stowed and received through the use of the handles 30 since the handles 30 are exposed when the desks 1 are stowed.

[0063] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rail system 210 and lips 9 may be spaced apart such that the desks 1 do not touch each other. However, in some embodiments, the grips 6 may be used such that the grips 6 allow an upper desk 1 to be spaced apart from a lower desk 1 without damaging the working surface 2 of the lower desk 1. As such, in some embodiments, the storage apparatus 200 may not utilize a rail system 210 to stow the desks 1. That is, in some embodiments the desks 1 may just be stacked within the storage apparatus 200 one on top of the other, while the walls of the storage apparatus 200 restrict the desks 1 from falling over. In some embodiments, the rail system 210 may be partitions (e.g., solid surfaces, such a shelves, or the like) that separate the cavity within the storage apparatus 10 into separate cavities and / or support one or more desks 1 to allow for the desks 1 to be stowed and / or removed from the storage apparatus 10.

[0064] It should be understood that the storage apparatus 200 may be utilized to store other components 220 and / or have other compartments along with the desks 1, such as bins 222, trays 224, drawers, shelves, lockable cavities, cubbies, or the like. The one or more other components 220 may be the same or similar size as the desks 1 , however, in other embodiments the one or more other components 220 may be different sizes. As such, the desks 1 and / or one or more other components 220 may be interchangeable, in at least one or more locations of the storage apparatus 200. It should be understood that one or more storage apparatuses 200 may be used (e.g., within a classroom, in storage locations, or the like) with different combinations of the desks 1 and / or other compartments (e.g., one or more bins, trays, drawers, shelves, lockable cavities, cubbies, or the like) in a customizable way for the needs of the users (e.g., within a classroom, or the like).

[0065] In still other embodiments, the storage apparatus 200 may have hanging features (e.g., pegs, hooks, bars, rails, or the like) that allow the desks 1 to be stored on the outside or inside of the storage apparatus 200. In still other embodiments, the desks 1 may be stored vertically (e.g., through the lips 9, rail system 210, handles 30, legs 10, or the like), instead of or in addition to, being stored horizontally as illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 10.

[0066] As further illustrated in FIGS. 5, 10, and 14 the storage apparatus 200 may be a mobile storage apparatus 200 such that it can be moved through the use of transport mechanisms 250. The transport mechanisms 250 may be any type of mechanism that allows the storage apparatus 200 to be moved, such as wheels (e.g., spherical, cylindrical, round, or the like) whichmay rotate and / or pivot to allow for the movement of the mobile storage apparatus 200. Additionally, or alternatively, the transport mechanism 250 may include other features, such as slides, guides, tracks, locking features, stops, or the like to aid in moving and / or restricting movement of the storage apparatus 200.

[0067] As illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B, in alternate embodiments, the storage apparatus 200 may not be utilized, and instead each desk 1 may be configured to sack on top of another desk 1. In some embodiments, each desk 1 may have stacking members (e.g., stacking projections, stacking apertures, or the like) that aid in interconnecting at least a portion of the desks 1 so that they can be stacked safely. In some embodiments, the stacking members may be a portion of the apron 3, the legs 10, and / or the working surface 2 of the desks 1.

[0068] As illustrated in FIG. 6, in other embodiments, the collapsible portable desk 1 comprises work surface 2 with a working surface aperture 20 that extends partially or all of the way through the work surface 2 (e.g., recessed embossment, a through hole, or the like), such as for working utensils. In still further embodiments, the working surface 2 may have any type of shape that provide benefits to the user(s). For example, the working surface 2 may be trapezoid shaped (as illustrated in FIG. 12A), may be triangular shaped (as illustrated in FIG. 12B), curved rectangular shapes (as illustrated in FIGS. 12C, 12D, 12E, 12G), semi-circular shaped (as illustrated in FIG. 12F), or any other shape that is circular, oval, stadium, square, polygonal, uniform, or non- uniform shape. In still other embodiments, the desk 1 may also be able to tilt with respect to the legs 10 and / or by adjusting one or more of the legs 10 (e.g., rear, side, or the like rails).

[0069] Regardless of the configuration of the working surface 2, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the shape of the working surfaces 2 of the desks 1 allow the desk to be placed next to each other to fomi a larger working surface. For example, the triangular, trapezoidal, curved, or the like shapes of the working surface 2 may allow the desks 1 to be positioned in a circular configuration and / or in a straight line (e.g., alternating orientation of the desks 1 , such a triangular, trapezoid, or the like). The desks 1 may be aligned without being connected; however, in some embodiments desk connectors (not illustrated - such as interlocking projections, hooks, magnets, or other connectors) may be used to allow the desk 1 to be connected to restrict separation until the connector is released. The connectors may be integrally coupled to the working surface 2 or removeably coupled to the working surface 2. For example, in some embodiments adjacent desks 1 may be operatively coupled together through the use of projections located on the edges of the desks (e.g., projections that snap fit together, slide together, or the like). In other embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the legs 10 and / or handles 30 may have one or more projections that allow adjacent desk 1 to be operatively coupled together. In otherembodiments, the working surfaces 2, the legs 10, and / or the handles 30 may comprise one or more magnets that operatively couple at least two desks 1 to each other.

[0070] In some embodiments (not illustrated), the one or more legs 10, or a portion thereof, may be selectively extendable and / or retractable, and / or have a tilt member that allows the desk to be angled when the one or more legs 10 are in the retracted and / or collapsible position (or partially retracted and / or collapsed position). Additionally, or alternatively, working surface 2 may be tiltable through the use of one or more tilt connectors located between the working surface 2, the apron 3, and / or the one or more legs 10. As such, in some embodiments, regardless of the configuration (e.g., through the legs 10 and / or the tilting feature on the working surface 2), the working surface 2 of the desks 1 may be parallel with the floor when used in the collapsible position and / or may be located and / or adjusted to a tilted position with respect to the floor.

[0071] In some embodiments regardless of the one or more legs 10 being extended or retracted, in addition to being utilized on the floor (e.g., in the collapsed position or over a user’s lap in the extended position), the desk 1 may be used on another surface (e.g., another desk 1, a traditional desk, table, or the like) such that the desk 1 can be used in the standing position. For example, when the one or more legs 10 are extended, the desk 1 can be placed on table and used by the user as a standing desk 1. Alternatively, the one or more legs 10 may be collapsed or partially collapsed (e.g., to adjust the height of desk 1), and / or tilted as described herein, and also used on another surface to adjust the height of the desk 1 for use in the standing position.

[0072] There are many portable desk systems which provide a work surface for use in various settings. Known systems are often bulky and cumbersome to carry, are unable to be efficiently stored in volume, and do not allow for the user to operate the desk while lying flat in the retracted position as well as when in the extended position. Accordingly, the present invention provides improvements to collapsible portable desks 1 , which allows for ease of carrying, allows for storability when there are many to be stored, and improves on mobility and functionality, as well as safety related to carrying and storage. The collapsible portable desks 1 also allow for the storage of the desks 1 in a storage apparatus 200, alone or with other components (e.g., bins, trays, or the like), or otherwise allow the desks 1 to be stacked on top of each other without the storage apparatus 200.

[0073] The collapsible portable desk 1 of the present disclosure can be used on the floor, with the legs 10 in the retracted position, as well as an elevated work surface 2 (e.g., on the floor or on top of another surface, such as another desk, a table, or the like), with legs 10 in the extended position. Moreover, the collapsible portable desk 1 may be utilized as individual or quickly and releasably coupled to each other to form a larger combined working surface 2. Thecollapsible portable desk 1 aids children and adults with schoolwork and homework activities, reading, working, arithmetic, drawing, technology use, eating, snacking, arts and crafts, gaming, use of manipulatives, and the like. The collapsible portable desk 1 is preferably made of light weight, durable material and integrates a handle 30 in the leg 10 (or other portion of the desk 1) for easy transportability and storage within a storage apparatus 200, on a hook, in a closet, or stacked on the floor, or any other storage method.

[0074] Preferably the legs 10 of the portable desk 1 have a component material that allows the legs 10 to grip on a floor surface or other surface (e.g., another desk), when the legs 10 are in the retracted position, allowing the user to utilize the desk 1 when legs 10 are retracted.

[0075] The collapsible portable desk 1 of the present disclosure preferably includes a handle 30 (e.g., for transport, storage, or the like). When the legs 10 are retracted the leg 10 is visible and useable as a handle 30 to carry or to push the portable desk 1 into the storage apparatus 200 and / or pull the desk 1 from the storage apparatus 200.

[0076] A top portion of the portable desk 1 is a work surface that is preferably smooth and flat to provide a working surface. The surface may extend beyond the legs 10, which are concealed underneath the surface, so that the surface edge forms one or more lips 9 around the surface to be able to be used in conjunction with a rail system 210 in a storage apparatus 200.

[0077] Preferably the portable desk 1 is integrated with a vertical or horizontal storage apparatus 200 (e.g., a storage tower), whereby a rail system 210 allows for the surface of the portable desk 1 to slide into a stowed position. Multiple portable desks 1 are able to be stowed in rails to promote safe storage of the desks 1 in volume. The integrated side handle 30 of the portable desk 1 allows the user to push / pull the desk 1 , when legs 10 are in the retracted position, into the rail system 210 for vertical or horizontal storage.

[0078] Additionally, or alternatively, the portable desk 1 may be able to stack on top of each other using stacking members (e.g., stacking projections, stacking apertures, or the like) such that the portable desks 1 may be stowed within and / or outside of a storage apparatus 200 (e.g., a storage tower).

[0079] It should be understood that, where possible, any of the advantages, features, functions, devices, and / or operational aspects of any of the embodiments of the present invention described and / or contemplated herein may be included in any of the other embodiments of the present invention described and / or contemplated herein, and / or vice versa.

[0080] In addition, where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and / or vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Accordingly, the terms “a” and / or “an” shall mean “one or more.” It will be further understood thatthe terms “includes” and / or “including” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0081] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the invention. For example, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, side, upper, lower, left, right, horizontal, vertical, upward, downward, first, second, third, inside, outside, or other similar terms used herein are intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments in any way. The referenced components may be oriented in any orientation other than that shown in the drawings and the terminology, therefore, should be understood as encompassing such variations unless specified otherwise. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout the disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims.

[0082] It should be understood that “operatively coupled,” “coupled”, “connected”, and / or other forms thereof, when used herein, means that the components may be formed integrally with each other, or may be formed separately and coupled together. Furthermore, “operatively coupled”, “coupled”, “connected”, and / or other forms thereof, means that the components may be formed directly to each other, or to each other with one or more components located between the components that are operatively coupled, coupled, connected, or the like together. Furthermore, “operatively coupled”, “coupled”, “connected”, and / or other forms thereof, may mean that the components are detachable from each other, or that they are permanently coupled together.

[0083] Phrases such as an aspect, the aspect, another aspect, some aspects, one or more aspects, an implementation, the implementation, another implementation, some implementations, one or more implementations, an embodiment, the embodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one or more embodiments, a configuration, the configuration, another configuration, some configurations, one or more configurations, the subject technology, the disclosure, the present disclosure, other variations thereof and alike are for convenience and do not imply that a disclosure relating to such phrase(s) is essential to the subject technology or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating tosuch phrase(s) may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A disclosure relating to such phrase(s) may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect or some aspects may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa, and this applies similarly to other foregoing phrases.

[0084] While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention is not limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other changes, combinations, omissions, modifications and substitutions, in addition to those set forth in the above paragraphs, are possible. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various adaptations, modifications, and combinations of the just described embodiments can be configured without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specifically described herein.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A storage apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a plurality of support members configured to define one or more cavities; a rail system comprising a plurality of rails operatively coupled to the one or more support members of the plurality of support members; a plurality of collapsible desks configured for stowing within the one or more cavities, wherein a collapsible desk comprises: a working surface portion; two or more collapsible legs portions operatively coupled to the working surface portion; and a handle; wherein the collapsible desk is configured for an extendable position in which the two or more collapsible legs are extended for use on a floor: wherein the collapsible desk is configured for a collapsible position in which the two or more collapsible legs are retracted for stowing in the one or more cavities; and wherein the handle is accessible in the collapsible position when the collapsible desk is in the collapsible position and stored within the one or more cavities.

2. The storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the working surface of the collapsible desk comprises one or more edges, wherein the working surface defines a handle aperture from an upper surface to a lower surface adjacent a side edge of the working surface that defines a working surface handle that forms the handle, and wherein the handle is accessible when the collapsible desk is stowed within the one or more cavities.

3. The storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the two or more collapsible legs of the collapsible desk defines a leg handle that forms the handle when the collapsible desk is located in the collapsible position, and wherein the handle is accessible when the collapsible desk is stowed within the one or more cavities.

4. The storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the two or more collapsible legs rotate with respect to the working surface to configure the collapsible desk between the collapsible position and the expanded position.

5. The storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein in the collapsible position the handle is assessable when the collapsible desk is stowed within the one or more cavities, and wherein the handle supports the collapsible desk on a floor for use in the collapsible position when the collapsible desk is in the collapsible position.

6. The storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the two or more collapsible legs are telescoping legs that are configured to be retracted into the collapsible position and expanded into the extendable position.

7. The storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the two or more collapsible legs comprise two legs each located adjacent opposite side edges of the working surface.

8. The storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein the two or more collapsible legs comprise three legs, wherein two legs are located adjacent opposite side edges of the working surface, and a third leg is located adj acent a back edge of the working surface.

9. The storage apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the two or more collapsible legs comprise four legs located adjacent opposite side edges and / or opposite front and back edges of the working surface.

10. The storage apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a plurality’ of compartments; wherein the plurality of compartments configured to be at least partially removeable from the one or more cavities.

11. The storage apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: one or more hangers operatively coupled to the one or more support members; wherein at least one collapsible desk of the plurality of collapsible desks are configured for hanging on the one or more hangers.

12. A collapsible desk, the collapsible desk comprising: a working surface portion;tw o or more collapsible legs portions operatively coupled to the w orking surface portion; and a handle; wherein the collapsible desk is configured to be extended to an extendable position in which the two or more collapsible legs are extended for use on a floor; wherein the collapsible desk is configured to be retracted to a collapsible position in which the two or more collapsible legs are retracted for stowing in a storage apparatus or for use on the floor; and wherein the handle is accessible in the collapsible position when the collapsible desk is in the collapsible position and stored within the storage apparatus.

13. The collapsible desk of claim 12, wherein the working surface comprises one or more edges, wherein the working surface defines a handle aperture from an upper surface to a lower surface adjacent a side edge of the working surface that defines a working surface handle that forms the handle, and wherein the handle is accessible when the collapsible desk is stowed within the storage apparatus.

14. The collapsible desk of claim 12, w herein the tw o or more collapsible legs of the collapsible desk defines a leg handle that forms the handle when the collapsible desk is located in the collapsible position, and wherein the handle is accessible when the collapsible desk is stowed within the storage apparatus.

15. The collapsible desk of claim 12, wherein the two or more collapsible legs rotate with respect to the working surface to configure the collapsible desk between the collapsible position and the expanded position.

16. The collapsible desk of claim 12, wherein in the collapsible position the handle is assessable when the collapsible desk is stowed within the storage apparatus, and wherein the handle supports the collapsible desk on a floor for use in the collapsible position when the collapsible desk is in the collapsible position.

17. The storage apparatus of claim 12, wherein the two or more collapsible legs are telescoping legs that are configured to be retracted in the collapsible position and expanded into the extendable position.

18. The storage apparatus of claim 12, wherein the two or more collapsible legs comprise two legs each located adjacent opposite side edges of the working surface.

19. The storage apparatus of claim 12, wherein the two or more collapsible legs comprise three legs, wherein two legs are located adjacent opposite side edge of the working surface portion, and a third leg is located adjacent a back edge of the working surface.

20. The storage apparatus of claim 12, wherein the two or more collapsible legs comprise four legs located adjacent opposite side edges and / or opposite front and back edges of the working surface portion.

21. The storage apparatus of claim 12, wherein the two or more collapsible legs comprise one or more grips, wherein the one or more grips provide a griping surface for use on the floor or for stacking.

22. The storage apparatus of claim 12, wherein the working surface portion comprises a left edge and a right edge that are configured to be coupled with an adjacent left edge and an adjacent right edge of an adjacent working surface of an adjacent collapsible desk to form a larger working surface.

23. A plurality of stackable collapsible desks, a collapsible desk comprising: a working surface portion; two or more collapsible legs portions operatively coupled to the working surface portion; and a handle; wherein the collapsible desk is configured to be extended to an extendable position in which the two or more collapsible legs are extended for use on a floor; wherein the collapsible desk is configured to be retracted to a collapsible position in which the two or more collapsible legs are retracted for stacking with another collapsible desk.

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