U.S. patent application number 10/945392 was filed with the patent office on 2006-06-08 for foldable workstation and shelving system.
Invention is credited to Stephen R. Packer.
Application Number | 20060119237 10/945392 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36119315 |
Filed Date | 2006-06-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060119237 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Packer; Stephen R. |
June 8, 2006 |
Foldable workstation and shelving system
Abstract
A foldable workstation is rendered mobile by a mobile support
structure. The mobile support structure comprises a pair of castor
support rails, each castor support rail attached to a vertical
support. A horizontal member joins the two castor support rails.
Castors attached to each support rail provide mobility. To
facilitate attachment of the foldable workstation to the mobile
support structure, a vertical support cover plate is attached to
each rear leg of the foldable workstation. Each cover plate
includes a channel for receiving one of the vertical supports. In
this manner, the foldable workstation is mobile and can therefore
be positioned in any location desired. Castor locks permit the
foldable workstation to be securely positioned.
Inventors: |
Packer; Stephen R.; (Las
Vegas, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GREENBERG TRAURIG
3773 HOWARD HUGHES PARKWAY
SUITE 500 NORTH
LAS VEGAS
NV
89109
US
|
Family ID: |
36119315 |
Appl. No.: |
10/945392 |
Filed: |
September 20, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10301031 |
Nov 20, 2002 |
6811233 |
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10945392 |
Sep 20, 2004 |
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09827546 |
Apr 6, 2001 |
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10301031 |
Nov 20, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
312/313 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 46/005 20130101;
A47B 3/00 20130101; A47B 5/06 20130101; A47B 43/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
312/313 |
International
Class: |
A47B 77/10 20060101
A47B077/10 |
Claims
1. A support structure for a foldable workstation comprising: a
pair of support rails; a vertical support attached to each support
rail; a horizontal member having two ends wherein each end is
attached to one of said support rails; a plurality of mobility
devices attached to said support rails; and wherein the two
vertical support members are insertable into two vertical support
cover plates attached to said foldable workstation.
2. The support structure of claim 1 wherein the plurality of
mobility devices are castors.
3. The support structure of claim 1 wherein the two vertical
support cover plates are attached to rear legs of the
workstation.
4. The support structure of claim 3 wherein channels of the support
cover plates partially encase the vertical support members between
the support cover plates and the rear legs of the workstation
frame.
5. The support structure of claim 1 wherein the mobility devices
may be locked.
6. In combination, a support structure and foldable workstation
comprising: a foldable workstation; a pair of support rails; a
vertical support attached to each support rail; a horizontal member
joining said pair of support rails; a plurality of wheels attached
to said support rails; and a vertical support cover plate attached
to said workstation, each said support cover plate including a
channel for receiving one of said vertical supports.
7. The combination of claim 6 wherein the vertical support cover
plates are attached to a pair of rear legs of the workstation.
8. The combination of claim 6 further comprising locking means for
locking the wheels.
9. A mobile foldable workstation comprising: two rear legs; two
horizontal members; two vertical supports, one of said vertical
supports attached to each one of said horizontal members; a lateral
member attached to, and extending between, said horizontal members;
two castors attached to an underside of each horizontal member; and
two vertical support cover plates, one of said vertical support
cover plates attached to each one of said rear legs such that a
channel in said vertical support cover plate receives one of said
vertical supports.
10. The mobile foldable workstation of claim 9 further comprising
locking means for locking said castors.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 10/301,031 filed Nov. 20, 2002, which is a
continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/827,546 filed Apr.
6, 2001 which applications are incorporated herein by this
reference thereto.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to workstations and shelves and
particularly to a folding workstation that has work surfaces
foldable against a wall to provide flat working surfaces for
space-constrained and other spaces.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0003] Workstations and workbenches often have flat horizontal
surfaces upon which work may be performed. These horizontal
surfaces occupy space, often within the confines of a room or
building. The use of this space by the workstation or workbench
prevents the use of such space for other purposes. This limits the
available space adjacent the workstation even though the
workstation may only be used on a temporary or intermittent
basis.
[0004] The flat surfaces of the workstation provide support for a
variety of tasks including food preparation in the food service
industry, instrument or other object preparation in a surgical
theater, and the like. While it is convenient, useful, and perhaps
even critical to have the availability of such flat, supporting
work surfaces, such horizontally-projecting surfaces occupy space
that might be needed for other purposes or that might be better
used or made available once the work surface is no longer
needed.
[0005] A variety of attempts have been made in the prior art with
respect to providing foldable and/or collapsible working surfaces.
Such earlier developments of the art include the following patents
and disclosures:
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,408,936 to Tsen discloses a wall-mounted
rack assembly having a foldable table like plate member with a
U-shaped support leg, and a second foldable shelf-like plate
member. Such features are shown in some detail in FIG. 3,
particularly elements 41, 43 and 51.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 1,727,408 to Cady discloses an upwardly
folding shelf system having multiple pivotable shelves connected to
a pair of legs. FIG. 2 shows the folding operation of the folding
shelf.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,622 to Kapteyn discloses a rack having a
plurality of shelves that are able to fold upwardly into a storage
position. For example, refer to FIG. 2 (elements 12, 34 and 44) for
additional detail. FIG. 2 shows in phantom the folding operation.
FIG. 3 shows with phantom item 10 the crib-like holding of boxes
for inspection.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 1,758,726 to Webb discloses a shelf and
folding table structure whereby the entire structure may be folded
into a non-use position. FIG. 1 (elements 7, 10, 11 and 12) shows
more detail regarding operation.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 3,151,576 to Patterson discloses a foldable
display stand having plural shelves that can be maintained in
selectable positions by use of fastening bolts. FIG. 2 shows to the
operation of the shelf trays.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 945,280 to Lindberg discloses an adjustable
shelf bracket that has a removable pin for selectively maintaining
the shelf at a desired angle.
[0012] Additionally, certain design patents are known for foldable
or folding shelf systems and the like. These include:
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. Des. 457,027 to. Mullet et al. is directed to
a supported shelf system having struts on either side of the shelf
panels.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. Des. 225,803 to Moore is directed to a
foldable wall shelving unit which has shelves that fold into a
bookcase-like frame with the shelves having depressions or wells
into which objects may fit.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. Des. 95,043 to Kent is directed to a parcel
shelf with an apparent latching mechanism that allows the shelf to
unfold from a vertical framework.
[0016] PCT International Application PCT/AU91/00030, Publication
No. WO 91/11130 is directed to a wall mountable foldable table.
This folding table fits into a vertical framework and, as shown in
the drawings, provides means by which an ironing board or similar
object can be stowed in such a framework. FIGS. 5 and 6 show a
folding mechanism for the foldable table.
[0017] As can be seen, a number of approaches and attempts to
advance the art have been made with respect to providing
collapsible or folding work surfaces. Generally, all of these are
directed to specific applications and take into account the
generally different operating parameters so as to fulfill the need
demanding the solution delivered by the respective patented
inventions.
[0018] However, the art is generally lacking in collapsible and
foldable workstations that take into account the certain
differences in physique of the human body. Generally, the multiple
workstations of the prior art did not take into account the need
for leg or foot room; as well as the ability to use an expansive
horizontal work surface in conjunction with a smaller and upper
horizontal work surface.
[0019] Consequently, the prior art still requires additional
foldable workbenches and workstations that more advantageously
fulfill the needs demanded by people working in small or confined
areas or such areas that only require temporary workspace. While
efficient to maximize the available surface area to the person
using the workstation, certain considerations must also be made
with respect to the area in which the workstation operates so that
when the workstation is folded up or collapses, a minimum
horizontal area is displaced such that the surface area when the
workstation is unfolded as compared to when it is folded or
collapsed is maximized.
[0020] Industrial applications such as those present in the food
service industry where prep work must be done or the like also
demand a workstation that is used on a temporary basis. In
preparation for lunch or evening meals, a certain amount of work is
done in order to prepare items for cooking and/or serving. Once
these items are prepared, the flat work surfaces on which such
preparations are made may no longer be necessary and the area may
be freed up in order to provide space for other purposes such as
foot traffic and the like.
[0021] Consequently, a need remains in the art for foldable
workstations that tailor themselves to certain specific
applications or that may have a more general application and
fulfill a wide variety of needs. Additionally, the state of the art
would be augmented by a flexible and adaptable foldable workstation
that provides a variety of uses and applications for foldable
workstations that provide horizontal working surfaces and work
space. It would be more advantageous to provide a workbench that
only occupied adjacent space when necessary. It would also be
advantageous to provide a workbench that provides easy access to
and storage of tools.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0022] In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known
types of foldable or collapsible workstations/workbenches now
present in the prior art, the present invention provides a new
foldable workstation construction wherein the amount of workstation
working surface area is maximized in conjunction with providing
conveniently located and disposed working surfaces for people using
the foldable workstation.
[0023] The general purpose of the present invention, which will be
described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide a foldable
workstation that accommodates the human form for better use and
structure. The foldable workstation described herein has many of
the advantages of foldable workstations and benches mentioned
heretofore and developed previously as well as many novel features
that result in a new foldable workstation which is not anticipated,
rendered obvious, suggested, taught, or even implied by any of the
prior art foldable shelves, racks, and the like, either alone or in
any combination thereof.
[0024] The foldable workstation of the present invention provides a
foldable workstation that is attachable to a wall that has three
flat horizontal work surfaces upon which work may be performed or
items temporarily laid. The bottom shelf or surface is offset from
upstanding legs that support a middle work surface in order to
provide room for a person's shins and/or feet. While this reduces
the surface area available for the lower shelf, it enables a person
to better engage the workstation as a whole, thereby providing more
advantage and utility. The lower shelf is connected by lateral
supports to the upstanding legs supporting the middle shelf.
[0025] The middle shelf is generally the larger of the flat
surfaces and is generally positioned at the height of a person's
hips or waist so that it might be more easily engaged or even
possibly leaned into, onto, or against by the person.
[0026] Lastly, an upper shelf is provided that is available for
supporting objects such as bowls, tools, and the like. The upper
shelf is the smallest shelf and is generally approximately half the
size of the lower shelf. In doing so, the shorter projection
outward made by the upper shelf allows more room for a person to
maneuver, enabling the arms to function unobstructed while working
on items present on the middle shelf.
[0027] All three shelves are pivotally connected to a chassis which
enables the flat folding of each of the work-surfaces against a
wall or other vertical support upon which the chassis is affixed.
Generally, the middle and lower work surfaces fold up toward the
chassis while the upper smaller work surface folds down into the
chassis.
[0028] The table may be made of stainless steel or surgical steel
for easy cleaning and sterilization, making it especially
advantageous for the food service industry and medical
professions.
[0029] The present invention provides a folding or foldable
workstation that allows flat horizontal workspaces to be provided
as needed. The foldable workstation of the present invention also
allows the retraction or folding of the flat work surface against a
wall or the like to enable the foldable workbench to occupy less
space when not in use.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0030] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
foldable workstation that accommodates the human form.
[0031] It is, another object of the present invention to provide a
foldable workstation that efficiently uses space available,
providing a small profile when folded or collapsed, yet providing
ample workspace when unfolded.
[0032] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
foldable workstation that may be sterilized for use in the food
service or medical areas.
[0033] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
foldable workbench.
[0034] It is another object of the present invention to provide
foldable horizontal work and storage spaces.
[0035] These and other objects and advantages of the present
invention will be apparent from a review of the following
specification and accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0036] FIG. 1 is a right side front perspective view of a preferred
embodiment of the foldable workstation of the present invention. A
pin for use in holding up the top shelf as well as a chain attached
thereto are shown in phantom as is lateral bracing;
[0037] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the foldable workstation shown
in FIG. 1. Lateral bracing is shown in phantom;
[0038] FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view of the foldable workstation
shown in FIG. 1. Lateral bracing is shown in phantom;
[0039] FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the foldable
workstation of FIG. 1. Lateral bracing is shown in phantom;
[0040] FIG. 5 is a right side elevational view of the foldable
workstation of FIG. 1. Lateral bracing is shown in phantom;
[0041] FIG. 6 is a right front perspective view of the foldable
workstation shown in a folded configuration;
[0042] FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the folded foldable
workstation in FIG. 6. Lateral bracing is shown in phantom;
[0043] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the folded foldable workstation
shown in FIG. 6. Lateral bracing is shown in phantom;
[0044] FIG. 9 is a right side elevational view of the folded
foldable workstation of FIG. 6. Lateral bracing is shown in
phantom;
[0045] FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of the folded foldable
workstation of FIG. 6;
[0046] FIG. 11 is a right side front perspective view of the
foldable workstation of FIG. 1 including the lateral bracing;
[0047] FIG. 12a shows the foldable workstation in a retracted
position joined to a mobile support structure;
[0048] FIG. 12b shows the foldable workstation in an open position
joined to the mobile support structure;
[0049] FIG. 13 shows the mobile support structure without the
foldable workstation in place;
[0050] FIG. 14 shows a close-up of the foldable workstation joined
to the mobile support structure;
[0051] FIG. 15a shows a vertical support cover plate used to
facilitate attachment of the foldable workstation to the mobile
support structure; and
[0052] FIG. 15b shows an end view of the vertical support cover
plate.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0053] The detailed description set forth below in connection with
the appended drawings is intended as a description of presently
preferred embodiments of the invention and is not intended to
represent the only forms in which the present invention may be
constructed and/or utilized. The description sets forth the
functions and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating
the invention in connection with the illustrated embodiments.
However, it is to be understood that the same or equivalent
functions and sequences may be accomplished by different
embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the
spirit and scope of the invention.
[0054] Referring to, the drawing where like numerals of reference
indicate like elements throughout it will be noted that the present
invention is used in the context of being attached to an ultimate
support, such as a wall or other vertical flat surface, or other
vertical support such as upstanding, poles or rails that provide
support for the foldable work station 100 of the present
invention.
[0055] As shown in FIG. 1 the foldable workstation 100 of the
present invention has oppositely opposed and generally parallel
upstanding frame shields 102 that serve as supports for the working
surfaces of the foldable workstation. 100. Upstanding frame shields
are generally U-shaped in configuration, having a central slot 104
about which more detail is given below.
[0056] The lower shelf 106, middle shelf 108 and upper shelf 110
are generally all pivotally connected to the upstanding frame
shields 102. The three shelves pivot on axes that are all generally
parallel to one another. The lower shelf 106 may be connected to
the upstanding frame shield by two lower lateral supports 120,
which extend beyond the lower shelf to attach to the upstanding
legs 122. The upstanding legs 122 are pivotally attached to both
the lower lateral supports 120 at the distal end of the lower
lateral supports 120, as well as to the free end of the middle
shelf 108.
[0057] As shown in phantom in FIG. 1 and the other drawings, rear
lateral bracing 126 may be optionally present in order to space
apart the upstanding frame shields 102. The lateral bracing 126
also provides additional support and may be used as a means of
attachment for the foldable workstation 100 to the wall or other
ultimate support.
[0058] Additionally, one or more pins 130 may be used to secure the
upper shelf 110 into place in its horizontal position by engaging a
hole therein. Such pins 130 may also hold the upstanding legs 122
into place with respect to the upstanding flame shields 102 as
shown in FIGS. 6-10. A first hole 132 in the frame shields 102 may
serve to allow passage of the pin 130 through the frame shield gap
104 to engage the upper shelf 110. A second hole 134 may serve to
uphold the upstanding legs 122 into place when the middle and lower
shelves 108, 106 are folded into the space between the frame
shields 102. The corresponding hole 136 may be present in the side
of each upstanding leg 122 near the top thereof to provide access
for the pin 130.
[0059] Due to the unique configuration of the foldable workstation
100, and as shown in FIGS. 6-10, the foldable-workstation of the
present invention folds into the space between the frame shields
102 in a generally flush fashion in order to provide a minimum
profile projecting out from the wall or other ultimate support.
Additionally, the forward end 140 of the middle and main shelf 108
rests generally flush with the top of the upstanding frame shields
102, making efficient use of the space used thereby. The same is
generally true with respect to the front end of the lower shelf
142. Although it may be fashioned flush with the rear end of the
middle shelf, the front end 142 of the lower shelf 106 may also be
separated from the rear end of the middle shelf 108 when the two
shelves are folded.
[0060] Depending upon the need for foot or shin space, the lower
shelf may extend towards or retract from the upstanding legs 122 or
alternatively, a center portion of the lower shelf 106 may be
removed in order to provide leg space while the side areas of the
lower shelf 106 extend towards the upstanding legs 122.
Additionally, a number of alternative embodiments may be achieved
through propitious construction of the lower shelf 106.
[0061] In folding up towards the frame shields 102, the upper and
lower shelves 108, 106 may somewhat dispose the upstanding legs 122
at an angle. This slight angle is due to the disposition between
the two shelves and their pivotal arrangement with the frame
shields 102. Additionally, the inner panel 150 of the frame shields
102 may project outwardly to a smaller degree and a lesser extent
than the outer panel 152 in order to accommodate the upstanding
legs 122. Generally, the upstanding legs 122 as shown in FIG. 6 do
not project out past the outer panel 152 in a preferred embodiment
and may come to rest between the two frame shield panels 150,
152.
[0062] This provides for a diminished profile for the foldable
workstation 100 in its folded configuration. This is a unique
aspect of the foldable workstation 100 of the present invention, as
the manifestation of such a minimal profile with significant
available horizontal workspace surface area delivers unique
advantages coupled with the ergonomic designs allowing for foot
room for the lower shelf 106 as well as arm and shoulder room for
the upper shelf 110. Particularly with limited wall space, the
foldable workstation 100 can be configured to accommodate any width
of wall space such that a thin foldable workstation or even square
foldable workstation could be used for corners while a longer
foldable workstation could be used when space so allows. Generally,
the distance between the front end of the middle shelf 140 and the
frame shields 102 and/or the lateral bracing 126 (when the foldable
workstation 100 is unfolded) is generally that of a person's reach
because the foldable workstation 100 is meant to accommodate the
workings of the human body and the like. Consequently, the general
width of the foldable workstation 100, as indicated by the distance
between the upstanding legs 122, may be variable and adapted to
specific applications.
[0063] Ergonomic design is also present in the distance the upper
shelf 110 extends outwardly from the wall or rear of the foldable
workstation. The upper shelf 110 is designed to enable clear and
free working of a person's hands, arms, and shoulders such that the
upper shelf 110 does not interfere with turning, moving, and
preparing or working upon items resting upon the middle shelf 108.
Consequent, the foldable workstation 100 set forth herein provides
distinct advantages over those in the prior art, as it accommodates
working situations not previously addressed.
[0064] Additionally, the upstanding frame shields 102 are generally
slanted and not squared at their lower ends 160 as shown in FIGS.
1, 4, 6 and 9. This provides certain manufacturing advantages as
otherwise unneeded material is not used. Additionally, an abrupt
and sharp corner 170 is avoided such that the projecting corner
present the lower end of the frame shields 102 provides &
softer angle that is less disposed to causing injury as a right
angle squared off corner would be.
[0065] In order to provide additional support for the middle shelf
108 reinforcing supports 164 may be present below and underneath
the middle shelf 108. Such reinforcing supports may take the form
of bars, hollow half girder structures, or the like extending
laterally below the middle shelf 108. As shown in FIG. 6, these
supports are generally welded into the down turned sides 172 of the
middle shelf 108 and are shaped in the form of a broad U-shape such
that a conveniently manufactured means is provided by which the
otherwise possibly thin and flexible upper shelf 108 work surface
can be reinforced so that heavier items may be placed upon the
middle shelf 108 and adequately supported thereby.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 6, when the foldable workstation 100 is
folded into its folded configuration, the pin 130 may engage the
associated upstanding leg 122 via the upstanding leg hole 134,
passing through the associated frame shield 102.
[0067] As also shown in FIG. 6, both the middle shelf 108 and lower
shelf 106 may have handle like front ends 140, 142 so that the
foldable workstation 100 is more easily gasped and set into its
folded configuration. In so doing the pins 130 are disengaged from
the upper shelf 110, which is then fold downwardly into the space
between the frame shields 102. The middle and lower shelves 108 are
then folded also into the frame shields 102 as the pivotal
connections between the middle and lower shelves 108, 106 and their
corresponding pivotal connections with the upstanding legs 122 and
the frame shields 102 form a parallelogram enabling the upstanding
legs 122 to travel towards the frame shields 102 when the middle
and lower shelves 108, 106 are pivoted upwardly.
[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the foldable workstation 100 is
constructed of stainless steel or other sterilizable material. This
makes the foldable workstation 100 particularly advantageous in the
preparation of food as foodstuffs may come into contact with the
working surfaces 106, 108, 110 and such surfaces may be sterilized
easily by harsh chemicals or other means. The same is similarly
true for use of the foldable workstation 100 in the medical
profession. Surgical instruments and the like may come into contact
with the sterilized working surfaces 106, 108, 110, yet the
foldable workstation 100 folds towards the wall in order to reduce
its footprint, making preparation tasks and duties in the surgical
theater otherwise simpler, easier and safe.
[0069] In an alternative embodiment, a pegboard may be used between
the upper shelf 110 and the middle shelf 108 to which tools may be
attached as with pegs or the like. Such a pegboard may be disposed
between the frame shields 102 and sufficient room may be possible
to allow the presence of such tools, even though the foldable
workstation 100 is placed into a folded configuration.
Alternatively, an indentation or well in the wall supporting the
unit may serve to support the pegboard and accompanying tools.
[0070] In order to accommodate the lower and upper shelves 106,
108, the pivotal connection of these parts may be placed forward of
the rear of the frame shields 102. This allows room for the upper
shelf 110 to fold down and behind the middle shelf 108. The upper
shelf 110 is generally pivotally connected to the upstanding frame
shields 102 and a rear portion thereof generally at the top of the
frame shields 102.
[0071] The foldable workstation 100 may also be made of steel as
well as stainless steel. Alternative embodiments include the
external application of corrosion resistant materials or the
construction by corrosion resistant materials so that the foldable
workstation may be both strong and durable. Pinch points present in
the foldable workstation 100 may be reduced and fasteners for the
foldable workstation 100, such as those used to attach the unit to
a wall or to provide pivotal connection between the different
parts, may be those that are now known in the art or developed in
the future. The foldable workstation 100 may be constructed such
that the middle shelf 108 may safely hold 230 pounds. The lower and
upper shelves 106, 110 may likewise be constructed to hold similar
weights for their sizes. Where sterilization is not necessary, the
components of foldable workstation 100 may have a powder coated
finish. In one embodiment, the foldable workstation 100 may be
approximately 49 inches wide, 27 inches deep and 60 inches high
when fully extended and weigh approximately 70 pounds. In its
closed or folded configuration, such a foldable workstation 100
would have a width of approximately 49 inches, a depth of
approximately 51/2 inches and a height of approximately 60 inches.
As indicated above, the foldable workstation folds easily against
the wall when not in use and may install easily in approximately
half an hour. When sent or transported to the ultimate user, some
assembly may be required, but generally none that would require
special tools or special knowledge in the art.
[0072] Any person or organization that needs to maximize the
utilization of space may find the foldable workstation 100 a
significant addition to their infrastructure. Such users may
include hotels, motels, hospitals, factories and warehouses,
offices, retail stores, auto repair shops, delivery companies,
gyms, libraries, laboratories, and fire and police stations, to
name but a few. Additional applications of the foldable workstation
100 include use in loading docks, in both staging and receiving
areas, will-call areas, as attachments to pallet racks and end
caps, janitorial closets, garages, mail rooms, kitchens and other
food preparation areas, restaurant busboy stations, locker rooms,
laundry rooms, storage areas, cleaning rooms, retail displays,
maintenance engineering departments, delivery vans and trucks, or
any other place where the utilization of space in an efficient
manner is important.
[0073] As shown in the several Figures, the elements providing
utility and novelty to the present invention include the ability of
flat working surfaces to fold flat against a wall. For the folding
shelves shown in the figures, a number of flat working shelf
surfaces are provided. The depth of the shelves or other flat
surfaces coupled with the distance between such flat surfaces
affects the ability of the flat surfaces to fold flat against a
wall or other vertical structure.
[0074] By providing horizontal working space in a manner that folds
flat vertically, the foldable workbench and foldable shelf system
of the present invention enable people to rely upon the flat
working surfaces when needed yet allow such surfaces to occupy less
space when not needed.
[0075] In another embodiment, the foldable workstation 100 is
mobile. More particularly, as shown in FIGS. 12-13, a mobile
support structure 200 comprises a pair of castor support rails 202,
a pair of vertical supports 204, a horizontal support rail 206 and
four castors 208.
[0076] Once constructed, the mobile support structure 200 is joined
to the workstation 100. That is, as shown in FIG. 14, two vertical
support cover plates 210 (shown in FIGS. 15a-15b) are attached
directly to the rear legs 102 of the workstation 100 such that the
vertical supports 204 are received by channels 212 in the vertical
support cover plates 210. A lip 211 extends to a bottom of the
castor support rails 202 to completely conceal the vertical support
204. In this manner, the workstation 100 is rigidly attached to the
mobile support structure 200 but easily removed when desired. In
other words, it is only a matter of lifting the foldable
workstation 100 such that the vertical supports 204 exit the
confines of the channels 212.
[0077] In the embodiment shown, the vertical support cover plates
210 are attached to the rear legs 202 with nuts and bolts 214.
However, the vertical supports 204 may be attached to the rear legs
102 using any suitable means, including rivets, pins or the
like.
[0078] Construction of the mobile support structure 200 comprises
attaching each vertical support 204 to a castor support rail 202
and attaching two rubber-wheeled castors 208 to each castor support
rail 202. Again, nuts and bolts are shown to attach the individual
pieces to one another. However, any suitable means is possible. The
two fabricated vertical support devices are then attached to one
another by means of a horizontal support rail 206. Then, the
vertical supports 204 are inserted into channels 212 of the
vertical support cover plates 210 which have been attached to the
rear legs 102 of the foldable workstation 100.
[0079] While any type of castors or wheels may be used to provide
mobility, ideally the castors 208 incorporate locking means 216 so
that the workstation 100 may be securely positioned in any desired
location. In other words, without locking means 216 the workstation
100 may tend to shift during use.
[0080] Also, any suitable material may be used to fabricate the
mobile support structure. For example, aluminum, steel, tin,
plastic and similar rigid materials are suitable.
[0081] While the present invention has been described with regards
to particular embodiments, it is recognized that additional
variations of the present invention may be devised without
departing from the inventive concept.
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