U.S. patent application number 11/548246 was filed with the patent office on 2008-04-10 for vehicle table system.
Invention is credited to Ernest Peter Tovani.
Application Number | 20080083352 11/548246 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39274046 |
Filed Date | 2008-04-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080083352 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tovani; Ernest Peter |
April 10, 2008 |
Vehicle Table System
Abstract
An embodiment of a vehicle mounted table system comprises
hardware adapted to attach to a cargo area of a vehicle by way of
one or more coupling mechanisms. The embodiment has a slider
assembly adapted to slide relative to the hardware whereby the
slider assembly can be slid at least partially out of a tailgate of
the vehicle while the hardware remains attached to the vehicle.
Operatively coupled to the slider assembly is one or more
platforms, the platforms folding out of the vehicle through a
hinge-turntable assembly. The embodiment also includes a canopy
assembly having a flexible covering and one or more associated
canopy supports, the one or more canopy supports adapted for
attachment to the table structure when the tailgating assembly is
fully deployed.
Inventors: |
Tovani; Ernest Peter;
(Centennial, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Leyendecker & Lemire, LLC
C/O PORTFOLIO IP, P.O. BOX 52050
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55402
US
|
Family ID: |
39274046 |
Appl. No.: |
11/548246 |
Filed: |
October 10, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
108/44 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 83/04 20130101;
B60R 9/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
108/44 |
International
Class: |
A47B 37/00 20060101
A47B037/00 |
Claims
1) A vehicle mounted table system, the system comprising: at least
one platform having a flat surface; hardware adapted to secure the
table system within a vehicle; at least one slider assembly
operatively coupled with the hardware and the at least one
platform, the at least one slider assembly adapted to move the
platform from a first location within the vehicle to a second
location at least partially outside of the vehicle; and a turntable
assembly operatively coupled with the at least one slider assembly
and the at least one platform, the turntable assembly adapted to
rotate the at least one platform in a plane generally parallel with
the flat surface.
2) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, wherein the
hardware further includes framework.
3) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, wherein the at
least one platform is adapted to be (i) generally vertically
orientated when the system is in the first location, and (ii)
generally horizontally orientated when in the system is in the
second location; the vehicle mounted table system further
comprising one or more hinge assemblies adapted to move the at
least one platform from the vertical to horizontal positions.
4) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, wherein the slider
assembly includes at least one rail and at least one corresponding
sliding piece, the sliding piece being coupled with the
platform.
5) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1 further including
one or more legs pivotally coupled with the platform.
6) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, wherein the at
least one platform comprises a plurality of platforms, each having
generally flat surfaces, hingeably coupled together.
7) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 1, further including a
canopy assembly, the canopy assembly including a canopy framework
assembly and a covering of a flexible sheet material, the canopy
framework assembly coupling with a platform framework associated
with the one or more platforms.
8) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 7, wherein the
platform framework includes the one or more legs.
9) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 7, wherein the canopy
framework assembly includes a plurality of telescoping tubes
adapted to support the covering.
10) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 9, wherein the
telescoping tubes are arcuate.
11) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 7, further comprising
a plurality of panels, the panels comprised of flexible sheet
material adapted to attach to the canopy assembly to form
vertically disposed sides.
12) The vehicle mounted table system of claim 11, wherein the
panels attached to the canopy assembly using hook and loop
material.
13) A combination comprising: a motor vehicle including a rear
tailgate opening; and a covered table assembly (i) attached to the
interior of the motor vehicle, (ii) having a stowed position
located substantially within the motor vehicle, and (iii) having a
fully deployed position located primarily outside of the vehicle,
the covered table assembly including (a) a one or more tables, and
(b) a canopy operatively coupled to the one or more tables when the
covered table assembly is in the deployed position; wherein the
covered table assembly is adapted for movement from the stowed to
deployed positions primarily through the rear tailgate.
14) The combination of claim 13, wherein the one or more tables
comprises a left table and a right table, the left table located
proximate a driver side of the vehicle and spaced from the right
side table located proximate the passenger side of the vehicle
providing a distance there between permitting a person to access
the interior of the vehicle through the rear tailgate.
15) The combination of claim 14, wherein one of the left and right
tables is elongated and a primary length of the table extends in a
direction generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the
vehicle.
16) The combination of claim 13, further comprising a DC/AC
inverter, the power inverter located proximate the rear
tailgate.
17) The combination of claim 13, wherein the canopy extends
rearwardly from a forward edge at least slightly overhanging a
tailgate opening of the tailgate whereby precipitation is generally
inhibited breeching an interface between the tailgate opening and
the canopy.
18) The combination of claim 13 wherein the combination further
comprises a plurality of panels flexible, the flexible panels
adapted to attach to the canopy and substantially enclose a space
beneath the canopy including the one or more tables.
19) A vehicle mounted tailgating assembly, the tailgating assembly
including: a framework adapted to attach to a cargo area of a
vehicle by way of one or more attachment brackets, an upper section
of the framework being adapted to slide relative to a lower section
of the framework whereby the upper section can be slid at least
partially out of a tailgate of the vehicle while the lower section
remains attached to the vehicle; one or more folding tables and
associated table structure coupled to the upper section, the tables
adapted to extend outwardly of the upper section framework and an
associated vehicle when the upper section has been slid partially
out of the vehicle; a canopy assembly including a flexible covering
and one or more associated canopy supports, the one or more canopy
supports adapted for attachment to the table structure when the
tailgating assembly is fully deployed.
20) The vehicle mounted tailgating system of claim 19, wherein the
one or more attachment brackets are adapted couple to the rear seat
attachment brackets of the vehicle.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention generally relates to expandable vehicle table
systems.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Extendable tables are generally known in the industry that
are generally adapted for use with a vehicle. Expandable tent
systems are also generally known in the industry that are adapted
for use with a vehicle. However, these prior art systems are
adapted to be used independently of each other. For example, a
collapsible tent system such as the system described in U.S. Pat.
No. 3,333,594 ('594) is comprised of a frame coupled to the
vehicle, and a tent surface coupled to the frame. The device
described in the '594 patent is adapted to be used as a shelter for
camping or other similar activities. Likewise, the expandable table
system disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,249,845 ('845) is a system
coupled to, and extendable from, the vehicle via a set of rails.
The '845 system is adapted to be used as a picnic-table type
device.
[0003] Although both references, among others, disclose various
devices extendable from a vehicle, these devices and other similar
systems are not readily adaptable for use outside of specific
camping or picnicking uses, respectively. That is, a picnicker
would be required to set up a separate canopy device if he or she
implemented a prior art expandable table system. Likewise, other
devices disclosed for use in a tailgating capacity, such as the
device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,452,151 ('151), are similar to
the picnicking devices, yet none of these devices disclose a
tailgate system that extendably couples to the vehicle while also
having a canopy and being removable from the vehicle after each use
with minimal effort.
[0004] In today's society, tailgating at sporting events is an
activity associated with sporting events that provides
entertainment value unto itself, with many persons solely attending
tailgating events without also including a visit to the actual
game. A typical tailgating activity is to provide a smorgasbord for
the tailgate attendees, often including food prepared from an
adjacent grill. In many circumstances, with a large group of
attendees present, it may be difficult to provide each attendee
with food prior to the start of the sporting event without a large
area to access the food. Additionally, since many sporting events
occur whether or not there is inclement weather, oftentimes it may
be raining or snowing during a tailgate session. Therefore, it is
incumbent upon many tailgaters to provide a shelter for tailgate
attendees.
SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the rear of a minivan showing
the rear seat tracks in one embodiment of the invention.
[0006] FIG. 2 is a bottom isometric view of the slider assembly,
coupled hardware, and seat track coupling mechanisms of one
embodiment of the invention.
[0007] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of hardware and extended slider
assembly and driver-side platform of one embodiment of the
invention.
[0008] FIG. 4 is a rear view of a vehicle having a vehicle tailgate
system loaded in a storage position in one embodiment of the
invention.
[0009] FIG. 5 is an isometric top side view of a driver-side
platform, slider assembly, sliding piece, and turntable in a
vertical orthogonal position in one embodiment of the
invention.
[0010] FIG. 6 is a side isometric view of a vertical orthogonal
position of a driver-side platform, slider assembly, and turntable
of one embodiment of the invention.
[0011] FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a driver-side platform,
coupled extension platform, slider and turntable highlighting the
rotation of the driver-side and extension platforms from a
generally vertical orthogonal position to a generally horizontal
orthogonal position.
[0012] FIG. 8 is an isometric view of the driver-side platform,
slider assembly, sliding piece, and turntable in a generally
horizontal orthogonal position.
[0013] FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the driver-side platform,
extension platform, and legs of one embodiment of the
invention.
[0014] FIG. 10A is an isometric view of a driver-side and
passenger-side platforms, the extension platform, the slider
assembly, legs and a transparent canopy covering of one embodiment
of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 10B is an isometric close-up view of a leg and coupled
feet with brackets and hinges according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0016] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of the driver-side and
passenger-side platforms, a portion of the extension platform, the
slider assembly, a plurality of legs and a transparent canopy
assembly covering of one embodiment of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 12 is an isometric view of the extension platform and a
portion of the driver-side platform of one embodiment of the
current invention.
[0018] FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a hinge-bracket assembly and
a portion of a coupled middle leg section and bottom leg section of
one embodiment of the current invention.
[0019] FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a portion of the extension
platform, driver-side platform and a leg with coupled feet of one
embodiment of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a pin of one embodiment of
the invention.
[0021] FIG. 16 is a side isometric view of telescoping legs and
coupled canopy section framework of one embodiment of the
invention.
[0022] FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a cooling apparatus of one
embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a vehicle and a vehicle
table system having a canopy assembly and coupled sides of one
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] Overall, it would be highly desirable to have a table system
attachable to a vehicle, the table system being capable of
extending from the vehicle and incorporating a canopy system, among
other features. One embodiment of the invention is comprised of a
driver-side platform, a slider assembly, and a turntable assembly.
One platform is substantially similar to a table. The driver-side
platform may also be a left table. The slider assembly may have a
sliding piece and a rail. An embodiment is adapted to couple to a
vehicle with the slider assembly being adapted to fit into the rear
cargo area of a vehicle such as, but not limited to, a minivan. An
embodiment may couple to the vehicle through hardware and the
hardware may be adapted to couple to a rear seat track through one
or more attachment brackets. The attachment bracket in one
embodiment may be a seat bracket decoupled from a rear minivan
seat.
[0025] The hardware in one embodiment may be a framework. In such
an embodiment, the slider assembly may be coupled to the framework.
The slider assembly may couple to the top of the framework so that
the slider assembly table may slide in and out of the vehicle.
[0026] The slider assembly is typically adapted to slide at least
one platform towards the rear of the vehicle. For example, in a
system where a framework is fixedly attached to the rear seat
tracks, and a slider assembly is coupled to the top of the
framework, the driver-side platform is typically operatively
coupled to the slider assembly. The slider assembly may be capable
of locking in at least one position. One slider assembly is capable
of locking in a plurality of positions. In one embodiment, the
slider assembly may lock in position through a pin-bore locking
mechanism. A slider assembly having a pin-bore locking mechanism
may have a plurality of bores along an edge of the slider assembly.
The platform may also have a bore, and may be inserted through the
platform bore and at least one of the slider assembly bores in
order to lock the platform in a position relative to the slider
assembly. The table and slider assembly may lock in position
through a different method as well. When the slider assembly has a
rail, the platform may be adapted to operatively couple to the rail
and slide.
[0027] The platform may be slidably coupled to the slider assembly
through a sliding piece. Upon the platform being slidably coupled
to the slider assembly and the slider assembly locking device is
disengaged, slider assembly slides relative to the hardware. The
slider assembly typically slides towards the rear of the vehicle
and rear bumper. The slider assembly is adapted to allow the
forward edge of the platform to clear the rear of the vehicle, in
one embodiment by using a sliding piece.
[0028] One embodiment uses a Joey Bed.TM. Jr. SUV/Mini-Van,
manufactured by Joey Bed, Inc. of Cottage Grove, Oreg. as the
slider assembly. In such an embodiment, the Joey Bed is coupled to
a framework and at least a portion of the bed is adapted to slide
out of the rear of the vehicle. The bed typically has (i) a base
and (ii) rails on both the driver side and passenger side of the
base. The driver side may be referred to as a lefi side and the
passenger side may be referred to as a right side.
[0029] In one embodiment, the driver-side platform is coupled to a
turntable assembly. The turntable assembly, in turn, is typically
coupled to a sliding piece adapted to fit into a rail, such as, but
not limited to, the Joey Bed.TM. rails. The sliding piece is
adapted in one embodiment to extend beyond the rearward edge of the
Bed to allow the forward edge of the platform to clear the rear
edge of the vehicle.
[0030] Upon clearing the rear edge of the vehicle, the turntable
assembly is typically employed. The turntable assembly typically
includes a hinge, with the assembly and hinge adapted to rotate the
platform about 90 degrees. The platform is typically rotated to a
position such that a forward edge of the platform when the platform
is in a storage position rotates to a left edge. Additionally, the
rotation enables the platform to rotate from a substantially
vertical orthogonal position relative to the sliding direction to a
substantially horizontal orthogonal position relative to the
sliding direction. The sliding direction is typically substantially
parallel a longitudinal axis of the vehicle
[0031] One embodiment is also comprised of a canopy assembly. The
canopy assembly may have a framework coupled to a portion of a
platform. For example, the platform may be a driver-side table. The
driver-side table may have at least one leg coupled to the table
and the canopy framework. The canopy framework and the leg may be
coupled in a manner adapted to allow the canopy to expand.
[0032] When the driver-side table is in the substantially
horizontal orthogonal position, in one embodiment the leg coupled
to the table may be coupled to the table at a rear table corner.
The leg may be adapted to rotate from a substantially horizontal
lengthwise position to a substantially vertical lengthwise
position. In one embodiment, the leg is a telescoping leg adapted
to expand, expanding upwardly or downwardly while in the vertical
lengthwise position. In other embodiments, the leg is not a
telescoping leg, and a bottom leg portion and an upper leg portion
may be coupled to a middle leg portion coupled to the table. The
upper and lower leg portions may be coupled through a coupling
mechanism such as, but not limited to, a pin-bore coupling
mechanism. In one embodiment, the middle leg portion is coupled to
the driver-side table through a pivoting hinge-bracket assembly.
With either the telescoping leg or the non-telescoping leg
embodiment, the distal end of the bottom leg portion is adapted to
be placed on the ground, providing support to the table through the
bottom leg portion/middle leg portion coupling or the telescoping
leg.
[0033] Likewise, the upper leg portion is coupled to the middle leg
portion. Both the upper leg portion and the bottom leg portion are
capable of being vertically adjustably coupled to the middle leg
portion in one embodiment, to account for different required
heights. In one embodiment, after the driver-side table is in the
substantially horizontal orthogonal position, the coupled leg
middle portion is rotated from a substantially horizontal position
to a substantially vertical position and the upper and lower leg
portions are expanded or coupled to the middle leg portion.
[0034] The upper leg portion in one embodiment is coupled to the
canopy assembly framework. The canopy assembly framework may be
detachably coupled to the upper leg portion in one embodiment. For
example, the canopy frame may couple to a proximal end of the leg
upper portion through a pin-bore coupling mechanism. In such an
embodiment, the canopy framework is typically coupled to the upper
leg portion prior to the upper leg portion expanding upward in the
telescoping leg embodiment, or prior to the upper leg portion being
coupled to the middle leg portion in the non-telescoping leg
embodiment. In one embodiment, such as, but not limited to, the
telescoping leg embodiment, the canopy frame is coupled to the
proximal end of the upper leg portion such that when the leg is
positioned in a substantially vertical manner and telescoped to a
required height, the canopy frame may pivot about the upper leg
portion.
[0035] In one embodiment, the canopy assembly framework is a
telescoping frame. The canopy frame is coupled to the leg in such a
manner that when the canopy frame pivots about the upper leg
portion, the canopy frame may telescopically expand. In one
embodiment, the canopy assembly framework is coupled to a canopy
assembly covering during telescopic expansion. Therefore, when the
canopy assembly framework expands, the canopy assembly covering
expands, thereby covering at least a portion of the table and a
socializing area.
[0036] The canopy assembly framework is typically comprised of a
plurality of sections. Each section of the canopy frame is
typically coupled to a leg. In one embodiment, an expansion
platform is coupled to the driver-side table and coupled to the
expansion platform is a leg, the leg also being coupled to a canopy
frame section. In one embodiment, the expansion platform is an
expansion table. The expansion platform may have a first section
and a second section, the first and second sections being coupled
together with a hinge. The hinge allows the first and second
sections to fold together such that they may be placed in a storage
position on the vehicle in a manner substantially similar as the
driver-side table. One embodiment's extension platform is an
extension table.
[0037] In one embodiment, the extension table may couple to a
slider assembly or sliding piece in a manner similar to the
driver-side table. The extension table may also be coupled to a
sliding mechanism such as a "Joey Bed". During storage, the
extension table may be coupled to the slider assembly such as a
Joey Bed by either coupling the extension table to the driver-side
table through a series of straps or through a clasping or snapping
mechanism, or the extension table may couple directly to the slider
assembly through a slot.
[0038] An embodiment is contemplated where the extension platform
first section may also be coupled to the driver-side platform
through a hinge. In such an embodiment, the extension platform
unfolds from the driver-side platform via the hinge and the
extension platform expands into a first and second section via the
extension platform hinge. Each platform hinge is typically
supported with at least one bracket.
[0039] An extension platform leg is typically coupled to a rear
extension platform corner opposite the driver-side platform
coupling. A canopy assembly framework section may be coupled to the
extension platform leg in substantially the same manner as the
canopy assembly framework is coupled to the driver-side platform
leg. Upon pivoting and expanding the extension platform leg in a
manner substantially similar to the driver-side platform leg, the
canopy assembly framework section and covering coupled to the
expansion platform leg expands in substantially the same manner as
the canopy framework section coupled to the driver-side platform
leg.
[0040] An embodiment may also be comprised of a passenger-side
platform. The platform may be a table in one embodiment. The
passenger side table in one embodiment is substantially similar to
the driver-side table in operation and design, having a turntable
assembly and being operatively coupled to a sliding piece
incorporated to a slider assembly such as, but not limited to, a
Joey Bed.TM.. However, the passenger side platform is different
from the driver-side platform in that the passenger-side platform
folds towards the right side, or passenger side of the vehicle
instead of the left side, or driver side of the vehicle. The
passenger side table has a passenger-side leg and coupled canopy
assembly framework that operates in a manner substantially similar
to the driver-side table leg and coupled canopy assembly framework.
The passenger-side framework may have a coupled extension table and
leg in one embodiment that is substantially to the driver-side
extension table and leg.
[0041] An embodiment may also have a stand-alone leg. Typically
used in an embodiment that does not have a passenger-side extension
table, the stand-alone leg may be a telescoping leg or non
telescoping leg that is substantially similar to the legs coupled
to the other corners of the canopy. The stand-alone leg may also be
used in an embodiment that does not have a driver-side extension
table as well. Coupled to the distal end of the standalone leg and
in one embodiment in at least one other leg, is at least one foot.
One embodiment is comprised of a standalone leg with four feet.
Each foot is coupled to the end of the leg with a hinge and a
bracket adapted to keep the foot substantially perpendicular to the
leg. Each foot is adapted to provide stability to the standalone
leg.
[0042] One embodiment includes an AC/DC power inverter. The power
inverter is typically located proximate to the rear bumper. The
power inverter is adapted to allow devices such as electric
burners, grills, televisions, or radios to be plugged into the
power inverter and placed either on a platform or on the slider
assembly.
[0043] It is contemplated that a gas, charcoal, or other type of
grill may be used in conjunction with one embodiment.
Terminology:
[0044] The terms and phrases as indicated in quotation marks (" ")
in this section are intended to have the meaning ascribed to them
in this Terminology section applied to them throughout this
document, including in the claims, unless clearly indicated
otherwise in context. Further, as applicable, the stated
definitions are to apply, regardless of the word or phrase's case,
tense or any singular or plural variations of the defined word or
phrase.
[0045] The term "or" as used in this specification and the appended
claims is not meant to be exclusive rather the term is inclusive
meaning "either or both".
[0046] References in the specification to "one embodiment", "an
embodiment", "a preferred embodiment", "an alternative embodiment",
"a variation", "one variation", and similar phrases mean that a
particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in
connection with the embodiment is included in at least an
embodiment of the invention. The appearances of phrases like "in
one embodiment", "in an embodiment", or "in a variation" in various
places in the specification are not necessarily all meant to refer
to the same embodiment or variation.
[0047] The term "couple" or "coupled" as used in this specification
and the appended claims refers to either an indirect or direct
connection between the identified elements, components or objects.
Often the manner of the coupling will be related specifically to
the manner in which the two coupled elements interact.
[0048] The term "integrate" or "integrated" as used in this
specification and the appended claims refers to a blending,
uniting, or incorporation of the identified elements, components or
objects into a unified whole.
[0049] Directional and/or relationary terms such as, but not
limited to, left, right, nadir, apex, top, bottom, vertical,
horizontal, back, front and lateral are relative to each other and
are dependent on the specific orientation of a applicable element
or article, and are used accordingly to aid in the description of
the various embodiments and are not necessarily intended to be
construed as limiting.
[0050] As applicable, the terms "about" or "generally" as used
herein unless otherwise indicated means a margin of +-20%. Also, as
applicable, the term "substantially" as used herein unless
otherwise indicated means a margin of +-10%. It is to be
appreciated that not all uses of the above terms are quantifiable
such that the referenced ranges can be applied.
[0051] The term "composite", "composites" or any version thereof
refers to a solid material which is composed of two or more
substances having different physical characteristics and in which
each substance retains its identity while contributing desirable
properties to the whole.
[0052] The term "tailgate", "tailgating", "tailgate party", or any
similar version refers to a picnic that is served from the tailgate
of a vehicle, as before a sports event.
[0053] The term "telescoping" refers to two parts of a device which
are coupled together lengthwise, with one part entering, sliding,
or passing within another part like the cylindrical sections of a
collapsible hand telescope.
[0054] The term "turntable", or any version thereof refers to a
revolvable platform or disk, such as a lazy Susan.
First Embodiment of a Table System:
[0055] As shown by FIGS. 1 through 18, an embodiment of a vehicle
mounted table system is shown. One embodiment is typically
comprised of hardware 10, a slider assembly 20, a driver-side
platform 30, a passenger-side platform 40, a cooling apparatus 50,
a power inverter 60, and a canopy assembly 70. Each embodiment has
at least one platform. One embodiment may not be comprised of all
of these items, and may only be comprised of a portion of these
items. However, no matter how many of these items an embodiment is
comprised of, the system is adapted to allow a person to easily
install and set up for a tailgate party or other vehicle-picnic
event. The system may also be used in non-picnic events such as,
but not limited to, office functions or recreational functions that
involve being outside with a vehicle. For example, an embodiment is
contemplated that is adapted to be used in conjunction with
camping.
[0056] In one embodiment, the system is adapted to be placed in the
rear of a minivan, as best shown in FIG. 4. An embodiment is also
adapted to be placed in the rear of an SUV, and one embodiment is
adapted to be placed in the rear of a pick-up truck. There is one
embodiment that is adapted to be placed in the trunk of a car and
another embodiment that is adapted for use with an RV as well. Many
times, the embodiment is adapted to couple to the cargo area of a
vehicle.
[0057] In an embodiment that is adapted to fit in the rear of a
minivan, in one version of the embodiment that includes the
hardware 10 and the slider assembly 20, as best shown in FIG. 3,
the hardware is framework may be adapted to couple to the minivan's
rear seat tracks 2 through one or more attachment brackets.
Hardware is meant to secure the table system within a vehicle. One
embodiment may be adapted to couple to seat tracks other than the
rear seat tracks as well. To couple to the seat tracks so, the
hardware may include attachment brackets which are seat-track
coupling mechanisms 11, as best shown in FIG. 2, or the hardware
may not be comprised of a seat-track coupling mechanism, but may be
comprised of the seat-track bracket which is coupled the minivan's
existing rear seat. The seat-track coupling mechanism may be a
bracket and may be comprised of a handle 12 adapted to release the
hardware from the seat-tracks upon disengagement. Disengagement may
occur by twisting the handle.
[0058] The hardware 10 may include wheels 13, as best shown in
FIGS. 2 and 3. The wheels are typically coupled to framework posts
14 and are adapted to allow a user to easily maneuver the system
prior to installation and after removal of the system from the
vehicle, by allowing the system to be rolled along the ground on
the wheels. One embodiment includes a stacked vehicle coupling
mechanism 11, as best shown in FIG. 2. Stacked coupling mechanisms
typically include blocks 15 or other similar devices. The blocks
may be adapted to enable the framework wheels to rest on the
vehicle floor upon insertion of the coupling mechanism into the
seat track 2. In a non-stacked framework, as best shown in FIG. 3,
the wheels 13 may also rest on the ground. In both a stacked and
non-stacked embodiment, the length of hardware posts 14 are
typically less than 12 inches, with the posts being about 8 inches
in one embodiment.
[0059] The hardware 10 may be constructed of a lightweight material
such as a composite material. However, in one embodiment, the
hardware is framework comprised of steel alloy. The framework may
also be comprised of aluminum alloy or any other type of material
that is adapted to support the system components upon storage of
the components in the vehicle.
[0060] As the hardware 10 of one embodiment is adapted to fit in
the back of a minivan, the width 16 of the hardware in an
embodiment is wide enough to fit through the rear cargo hatch of a
minivan. An embodiment is also adapted to fit into the back of a
SUV such as a Toyota Highlander, into a trunk of a car, to a
Recreational Vehicle (an "RV") and onto a pick-up truck bed as
well, respectively. In these or other embodiments, the hardware 10
may not be framework hardware, but the hardware may be another
device such as, but not limited to, a cable-ratchet system adapted
to secure the table system within the vehicle.
[0061] The length 17 of the framework is such that the framework
may fit between a van's rear door or hatchback and the third row of
seats. In one embodiment, the framework is long enough to fit
between the hatch and the van's second row of seats or between the
hatch and the first row, or front seats. The framework generally
takes up the entire width and length of the area that it fits into.
In one embodiment, the framework is comprised of at least one
lengthwise beam 18 and one widthwise beam 19, although one
embodiment's framework is comprised of two lengthwise beams and
three widthwise beams, as best shown in FIG. 2.
[0062] The slider assembly 20 is operatively coupled with the
hardware and is adapted to move at least a portion of the system
from a first location within the vehicle to a second location at
least partially outside of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the
slider assembly is generally the same length and width as the
hardware length 17 and width 16. However, one embodiment's slider
assembly may be substantially smaller than the framework and one
embodiment's storage platform may be substantially larger than the
framework. At least a portion of the slider assembly is typically
adapted to slide in and out of the vehicle such as an SUV, minivan,
or trunk, or to slide on and off of the bed of a pick-up truck. One
way that the slider assembly may be coupled to the framework is
through a pair of rails 21, as best shown in FIG. 2. In one
embodiment, the rails may enable a sliding piece 22 to slide in and
out of a vehicle by rolling along the rails that are coupled to the
framework.
[0063] One type of product adaptable for use as a slider assembly
20 is the Joey Bed Jr. SUV/Mini-Van, manufactured by Joey Bed, Inc.
of Cottage Grove, Oreg. In one embodiment, the slider assembly is
partially comprised of steel. However, other material types may be
substituted. Additionally, there are typically sidewalls 23 on the
sliding piece 22. The thickness 24 of a sidewall in one embodiment
is 1 and 1/4 inches. In one embodiment, the components of the
vehicle tailgate system are coupled with the sidewalls to ensure
that the components are not tossed around during movement of the
vehicle. The sliding piece may be locked in position by a handle,
such as, but not limited to, the handle locking mechanism included
in the Joey Bed product. The sliding piece may lock into position
using a different device such as, but not limited to, a pin and
bore locking mechanism. With either locking device, or in other
locking mechanisms, the sliding piece may be locked in multiple
positions. Some slider assemblies, including some Joey Bed slider
assemblies, do not have sidewalls.
[0064] As previously stated, an embodiment is contemplated that is
not comprised of framework. In such an embodiment, the slider
assembly 20 is coupled directly to the vehicle with hardware 10.
The slider assembly in such an embodiment may be adapted to slide
in and out of a minivan, pick-up truck bed, SUV, RV, or trunk.
[0065] As best shown in FIG. 4, one embodiment of a vehicle
tailgate system is comprised of a driver-side platform 30, a
passenger-side platform 40, and a cooling apparatus 50. Each
platform typically has at least one flat surface. The platforms and
cooling apparatus are typically coupled to the sliding piece in one
embodiment. The items may be coupled to the sliding piece through a
mechanism such as, but not limited to, a snapping mechanism or a
latching mechanism wherein the items snap into, or are latched
into, notches 25 within the sliding piece, as best shown in FIG. 4.
The items may also be coupled to the sliding piece in a different
manner. For example, the items may simply be strapped onto the
sliding piece with straps or cables. An embodiment is contemplated
that is not comprised of a framework, or is comprised of a much
smaller framework than the framework shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.
Additionally, one embodiment may be comprised of a sliding device
which has at least one rail and coupled slider that enable the
platform to slide out of a vehicle, while being operatively coupled
to the hardware 10.
[0066] The slider assembly 20 is typically coupled to a driver-side
platform 30 through a driver-side sliding piece 22, as best shown
in FIG. 5. The sliding piece is typically coupled with a slider
assembly rail 21. The slider assembly is adapted to allow a portion
of the sliding piece and a coupled driver-side turntable assembly
26 and platform 30 to slide beyond the rearward edge of the slider
assembly 20, as best shown in FIG. 5. Additionally, the sliding
piece typically places the forward edge 31 of the platform, when
the platform is in the storage position as shown in FIG. 6, in a
position typically outside rear end 100 of the vehicle. In one
embodiment, this position is necessary in order to rotate the table
from the FIG. 6 storage position to the FIG. 8 tailgate
position.
[0067] One embodiment may use a slider assembly 20 and sliding
piece 22 that are adapted to provide motion in one dimension. One
sliding piece includes a rail. A sliding piece may also have a
linear motion bearing. Other type of sliding pieces and slider
assemblies may be used in embodiments as well. When a linear motion
bearing is employed, slider assembly typically includes a
sleeve-like outer ring and several rows of balls retained by cages.
A typical embodiment's slider assembly and sliding piece features
smooth motion, low friction, high rigidity, and long life.
Additionally, an embodiment's slider assembly and sliding piece are
economical to install, easy to maintain, and easy to replace. One
embodiment's linear motion bearing does not use balls, but uses
polymeric bearings housed in a hard anodized extruded aluminum
rail.
[0068] In any event, in one embodiment, upon installing the slider
assembly 20 and coupled hardware 10 into the minivan seat tracks 2,
the hardware is typically locked into a first position by using the
handle 12. The first position is best represented by FIG. 4. The
slider assembly is slid into a second position, as best shown in
FIG. 6. As FIG. 6 shows, the second position includes extending at
least a portion of the sliding piece 22 beyond the rear edge of the
slider assembly. When the slider assembly is in the second
position, the turntable assembly 26 is rotated. The turntable
generally rotates in a plane substantially parallel to the flat
surface of the platform that the turntable is operatively coupled
to.
[0069] For example, as best shown in FIG. 5, the turntable assembly
26 rotates about a plane substantially parallel to the driver-side
platform flat surface 32. Rotation of the turntable from the
position shown in FIG. 6 to the position shown in FIG. 8 also
includes use of a sliding piece hinge assembly 33 adapted to pivot
the platform from a substantially vertical orthogonal position
relative to the sliding piece 22 sliding direction, as best shown
in FIG. 6, to a substantially horizontal orthogonal position
relative to the sliding piece sliding direction, as best shown in
FIG. 8. The rotational and hinged movement of the platform is best
shown in FIG. 7. In one embodiment, the turntable assembly 26
rotates the platform from a position where a lengthwise edge 34 of
the platform is generally parallel to a lengthwise edge of the
vehicle, as best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, to the FIG. 8 position
where the lengthwise edge of the table is generally parallel to a
widthwise edge of the vehicle. In one embodiment, at least one
platform is stored in a vehicle not in a substantially vertical
orthogonal position. An embodiment platform may be stored in a
vehicle in a substantially horizontal orthogonal position.
[0070] When the driver-side platform 30 is in the substantially
horizontal orthogonal position, as best shown in FIG. 8, an
extension platform 80 may couple to the driver-side platform. The
extension platform may couple to the driver-side platform through a
pair of brackets 81, as best shown in FIG. 12. In one embodiment,
the extension platform may couple to the driver-side platform with
a hinge, as best shown in FIG. 9. One embodiment's driver-side and
passenger-side platforms are 4 feet along a lengthwise axis, 2.5
feet along a widthwise axis, and 3 inches thick. Additionally, all
platforms may be comprised of a framework in one embodiment.
[0071] The extension platform 80 is comprised of a first section 82
and a second section 83 in one embodiment. An embodiment may only
be comprised of a first section, and the length of a first section
only embodiment may be longer than the first section of a first and
second section embodiment. When an embodiment's extension table is
comprised of a first and second section, the sections are typically
coupled together with a hinge, as best shown in FIG. 12. In one
embodiment, at least one bracket 81 is coupled to the first and
second sections in order to provide support to the hinged portion
of the extension platform and help lock the extension platform in
the open position as shown by FIG. 12. The bracket may be coupled
to the second section through a substantially nonremovable pin. The
first section may then be coupled to the bracket with a removable
pin.
[0072] Besides the brackets 81, the extension platform 80 is
supported by at least one leg 90, as best shown in FIG. 10A. There
may be two legs coupled to the extension platform and one leg
coupled to the driver-side platform in one embodiment, as best
shown in FIG. 12. One extension platform leg may couple to a corner
of the second section 83, as best shown in FIG. 10A. An embodiment
may be comprised of a telescoping leg. FIG. 16 is the
representation of 4 telescoping legs, each leg coupled to a
corresponding telescoping canopy framework section 101. In one
embodiment, the driver-side platform 30 has a leg coupled to a rear
corner 35.
[0073] In one embodiment, the legs 90 are coupled to the platform
through a hinge-bracket assembly 91, as best shown in FIG. 13. The
assembly is typically adapted to pivot the legs from a
substantially vertical lengthwise position to a substantially
horizontal lengthwise position. FIG. 13 shows how the leg is
pivoted in one embodiment. One embodiment's hinge 92 is coupled to
a bracket 93, which, in turn, is coupled to a middle section 94 of
a leg.
[0074] The hinge 92 in one embodiment is comprised of a pivot
section 95 and an anchored section 96. Upon placement of the
driver-side platform in the horizontal orthogonal position and
coupling of the extension platform to the driver-side platform,
when the hinge pivot section is substantially parallel with the
hinge anchor section, the leg middle section 94 is typically in a
substantially horizontal position. The hinge pivot section is
typically coupled to the hinge anchored section through a pin-bore
pivot mechanism 98 and a brace 97. The brace may be adapted to lock
in both the vertical position and the horizontal position in one
embodiment. A pin-bore locking mechanism, or a latching mechanism
may be used. Other locking mechanisms may be employed as well.
[0075] One embodiment is comprised of a leg upper section 99, a leg
middle section 94, and a leg lower section 89, as best shown in
FIG. 14. The leg middle section may be coupled to the hinge-bracket
assembly 91. Another leg section may be coupled to the
hinge-bracket assembly in one embodiment. Also, in one embodiment,
the upper and lower sections are coupled to the middle section in a
telescoping manner. A telescoping embodiment may have additional
leg sections as well. In the non-telescoping embodiment, the upper
and lower sections are removably coupled to the middle section, as
shown in FIG. 14.
[0076] In one non-telescoping leg 90 embodiment, the leg upper
section 99 and leg lower section 89 are stored on the slider
assembly 20 in a notch 25 adapted to substantially secure the legs
during vehicle movement. The leg sections may also be stored on the
slider assembly by being coupled to the driver-side platform 30,
the passenger-side platform 40, or the extension platform 80
through at least one strap. Likewise, the extension table may be
coupled to the slider assembly through a notch or through straps.
Other mechanisms adapted to couple the legs and the extension table
to the slider assembly are also contemplated, such as, but not
limited to, being operatively coupled to the driver-side platform
or passenger-side platform through a hinge. The middle leg section
may also detachably couple to the hinge-bracket assembly 91 and may
be stored on the slider assembly in substantially the same manner
as the other leg sections.
[0077] In one embodiment, the leg sections are coupled together
with a pin 87 inserted into a bore located in each leg section. The
sections may be stored on the slider assembly 20 by coupling to a
hinge-bracket assembly 91, or all the sections may be decoupled
from the hinge-bracket assembly and stored in an alternative
manner, such as, but not limited to, the strapping mechanism
described above.
[0078] In one embodiment, as best shown in FIGS. 10A and 14, four
feet are coupled to the leg lower section 89. A leg bottom section
in one embodiment may also have less or more than four feet, such,
but not limited to, an embodiment with two feet. Each foot is
adapted to keep the leg 90 substantially stable. As a proximate end
86 of the leg in one embodiment is pivotably coupled to a canopy
framework section 101, the feet are also adapted to keep the canopy
assembly 70 substantially stable. In one embodiment, each foot is
coupled to the distal end 85 of the bottom section with a hinge 79
and a brace 78, the brace adapted to lock in a down position, as
best shown in FIG. 10A. A foot may also be adapted to lock in an up
position.
[0079] In one embodiment, the foot has a first section 77 and a
second section 76. Each section is generally 1 an inch in
thickness. The first section is also generally the same width 75 as
the leg lower section 89 and in one embodiment, the first section
is 6 inches long. The second section in one embodiment is wider
than the first section, the second section being about twice as
wide as the first section, and integrated to the first section. The
leg bottom section in one embodiment is 2 feet long, the leg middle
section in one embodiment is also two feet long, and the leg upper
section is 8 feet long. One embodiment may include more or less leg
sections and the sections of one embodiment are of different
lengths.
[0080] As best shown in FIG. 14, the leg sections are coupled
together through a pin 87 inserted into a bore 69 in each leg. As
best shown in FIG. 16, the legs 90 may also be telescoping legs. In
either embodiment, a proximate end 86 of the leg is coupled to a
proximal end 102 of a canopy framework section 101. One embodiment
has arcuate canopy framework sections. Also, one embodiment does
not have telescoping framework sections. A distal end 103 of the
canopy framework section is rotatably coupled to a plate 104 in one
embodiment. The plate and canopy framework section may be coupled
with a bolted assembly. An embodiment may include a different
coupling mechanism as well.
[0081] Coupled to the canopy framework section 101 is a canopy
covering 110. The covering in one embodiment is a flexible sheet
material, such as, but not limited to, a tarp. The covering may be
coupled to the framework by inserting the framework through loops
in the covering. The canopy framework may also be coupled to the
covering with a hook-loop coupling mechanism or any other coupling
mechanism such as, but not limited to, a series of snaps or
latches.
[0082] The canopy assembly 70 in one embodiment has 4 panels 111,
as best shown in FIG. 18. The panels in one embodiment are vertical
canopy sides comprised of flexible sheet material. Each side is
coupled to an edge of the canopy covering. One side has an opening
for the rear portion of a vehicle to fit within. In one embodiment,
the opening has an elastic portion 112, wherein the elastic portion
is adapted to snugly fit the covering around the vehicle to create
a generally water-resistant seal between the panel and the vehicle.
Two panels in one embodiment do not have openings, and a panel
opposite the vehicle opening side has an opening allowing a person
to enter and exit the canopy assembly. The panel opening on one
embodiment is a zippered opening. The top 105 of the canopy
covering in one embodiment includes at least one flap 113 adapted
to allow wind to enter and exit the canopy covering 110 without
blowing the covering off the canopy assembly framework.
[0083] An embodiment also includes a passenger-side platform 40 and
a cooling apparatus 50. The passenger-side platform operates in
substantially the same manner as the driver-side platform 30. For
example, the passenger-side platform is operatively coupled to a
turntable assembly 26 and sliding piece 22. However, the
passenger-side platform does not rotate and hinge from a storage
position generally parallel the vehicle's longitudinal axis to a
position proximal the driver-side edge of the vehicle, like the
driver-side platform, but the passenger-side platform rotates and
hinges to a position proximal the passenger-side edge of the
vehicle. The passenger-side platform may also couple to an
extension platform. The passenger-side extension platform is
typically substantially similar to the extension platform described
earlier.
[0084] As best shown in FIG. 4, the cooling apparatus 50 is
typically coupled with the slider assembly 20. The cooling
apparatus in one embodiment is a cooler adapted to receive ice and
food items such as aluminum cans. The cooling apparatus may couple
to the slider assembly 20 through at least one notch 25. In an
embodiment, the cooling apparatus is coupled to the slider assembly
through a strap. Other coupling mechanisms are also
contemplated.
[0085] The cooling apparatus typically has wheels 51 coupled to the
apparatus. The wheels are adapted to allow a user to roll the
apparatus. The apparatus also typically includes legs 52, as best
shown in FIG. 17. In one embodiment, the legs are adapted to pivot
from a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis position to a
substantially vertical longitudinal axis position. The legs may be
coupled to a side of the cooling apparatus, or the legs may be
coupled to the underside of the cooling apparatus. Often the
cooling apparatus is decoupled from the slider assembly and placed
on the ground, with the legs being adapted to pivot to a
substantially vertical position in order to lift the wheels off the
ground. In one embodiment, the cooling apparatus may be used as a
weight for the standalone leg. The cooling apparatus legs may
couple to a framework, and the framework may be comprised of
aluminum. All frameworks in one embodiment are comprised of
aluminum. The legs in one embodiment are 5 inches long with a
rectangular cross-section have 1-inch sides.
[0086] In an embodiment that includes a power inverter 60, the
power inverter typically has at least one outlet 61. The power
inverter has a battery and is adapted to convert direct current
("DC") to alternating current ("AC"). The inverter typically is
comprised of a rechargeable battery. The inverter outlets are
typically are adapted to supply power to different plug-in devices
such as an electric heater or electric grill. The power inverter
may even supply power to an electric motor adapted to automatically
expand the table and canopy.
Other Embodiments and Variations:
[0087] The embodiments of the vehicle table system as illustrated
in the accompanying figures and described above are merely
exemplary and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention. It
is to be appreciated that numerous variations to the invention have
been contemplated as would be obvious to one of ordinary skill in
the art with the benefit of this disclosure.
[0088] For example, as described briefly herein, it is contemplated
that the system works not only with a minivan, but is adapted to
couple to the bed of a pick-up truck, a trunk of a car, the rear
cargo area of an SUV, or to couple to an RV. With any of these
units, and in particular a Toyota Highlander SUV unit, the unit may
replace the hardware 10 with a cable-ratchet system that is adapted
to couple to the D-Rings located in the rear cargo area of an
SUV.
[0089] Additionally, it is contemplated to have a system adapted to
automatically deploy through use of an electric motor.
* * * * *