U.S. patent application number 12/131919 was filed with the patent office on 2009-04-23 for multimedia table with rotatable tray.
Invention is credited to Peter Barnett, Paul Berman, Azanaw Mulaw.
Application Number | 20090101047 12/131919 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40562166 |
Filed Date | 2009-04-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090101047 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mulaw; Azanaw ; et
al. |
April 23, 2009 |
Multimedia Table with Rotatable Tray
Abstract
A multimedia table that can be used by a hospital patient or
home users. One side of the table can provide a tray in which the
patient can use to eat. An opposite side of the table provides for
an LCD device wherein a person can watch television. The patient
can rotate the table so that the patient can utilize either side of
the table as the patient desires. Thus, for example, the table can
be useful for a patient lying in a hospital bed, recovering in a
nursing home, at home, or any other user wherein the table can
facilitate entertainment, communication, eating, etc.
Inventors: |
Mulaw; Azanaw; (Fort
Washington, MD) ; Berman; Paul; (Santa Monica,
CA) ; Barnett; Peter; (Santa Monica, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MUSKIN & CUSICK LLC
30 Vine Street, SUITE 6
Lansdale
PA
19446
US
|
Family ID: |
40562166 |
Appl. No.: |
12/131919 |
Filed: |
June 2, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60980451 |
Oct 17, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
108/13 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 23/046 20130101;
A47B 2220/0094 20130101; A47B 5/00 20130101; A47B 23/06 20130101;
A47B 23/02 20130101; A47B 23/025 20130101; A47B 2023/047
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
108/13 |
International
Class: |
A47B 85/06 20060101
A47B085/06 |
Claims
1. A multi function table, comprising: a floor support adapted to
rest on a surface; a connecting member connected to the floor
support; a rotatable tray connected to the connecting member, the
rotatable tray comprising a first side and a second side opposite
to the first side comprising an output device; and a rotating
mechanism connected to the rotatable tray to allow rotation of the
rotatable tray about a rotation axis.
2. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the rotation axis is
substantially perpendicular to the connecting member.
3. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the rotatable tray can
be rotated 360 degrees about the rotation axis.
4. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the rotatable tray can
be rotated 45-90 degrees.
5. The table as recited in claim 1, further comprising an input
port to receive an input to the output device.
6. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the output device is an
LCD monitor.
7. The table as recited in claim 1, further comprising a locking
mechanism to lock the rotatable tray in an extended position,
wherein the locking mechanism can be released to allow folding of
the rotatable tray in a position substantially parallel to the
vertical member.
8. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the output device
displays video.
9. The table as recited in claim 8, wherein a vertical orientation
of the video automatically adjusts based on a rotation angle of the
rotatable tray.
10. The table as recited in claim 9, wherein when an upper part of
the output device is higher than a lower part of the output device,
the video is displayed in a normal orientation, and when the upper
part of the output device is lower than the lower part of the
output device, then the video is displayed in an inverted
orientation.
11. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the floor support
comprises wheels attached to the floor support.
12. The table as recited in claim 1, further comprising a
disposable plastic cover attached to the output device.
13. The table as recited in claim 1, further comprising a
disposable plastic cover attached to the first side.
14. The table as recited in claim 1, further comprising a
stationary top panel connected to the vertical member and adjacent
to the rotatable tray.
15. The table as recited in claim 14, wherein an electronic unit to
drive the output device is located inside the stationary top
panel.
16. The table as recited in claim 14, further comprising stationary
teeth arranged circularly located in the top panel and a rotating
teeth arranged circularly located inside the rotatable tray.
17. The table as recited in claim 16, wherein the rotatable tray is
rotatable through discrete angles defined by the stationary teeth
and the rotating teeth.
18. The table as recited in claim 1, further comprising an
electronic motor which automatically drives the rotating
mechanism.
19. A table, comprising: a base to rest on a surface a vertical
member connected to the base; a stationary top panel cantileverly
connected to the vertical member and substantially parallel to the
base; a rotatable tray adjacent to the top panel, the rotatable
tray rotatably mounted to the top panel; and an electronic output
device on a first side of the rotatable tray.
20. The table as recited in claim 19, wherein the electronic output
device is a touch screen display.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims benefit to provisional application
60/980,451, which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The inventive concept relates to a table for use with a user
lying in a bed, sitting on a chair, or on a couch. The table has a
rotating tray which can have an output device on one side which can
be used to watch television or other digital output.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art:
[0005] Bedside tables already exist in the art. For example, U.S.
Pat. No. 7,032,522 to George discloses, "an overbed table
configured to support a table section above a patient support
surface, such as a hospital bed. The overbed table includes a frame
having a base and a substantially vertical support column for
supporting the table section. In one illustrative embodiment, a
display device is supported by the overbed table. In a further
illustrative embodiment, a camera is supported by the overbed
table."
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] It is an aspect of the present inventive concept to provide
a multimedia table in which can be convenient for users.
[0007] The above aspects can be obtained by an apparatus that
includes (a) a floor support adapted to rest on the floor; (b) a
vertical member connected to the support; (c) a rotatable tray
connected to the vertical member, the rotatable tray comprising an
eating side and an output side opposite to the eating side
comprising an output device; and (d) a rotating mechanism connected
to the rotatable tray to allow rotation of the rotatable tray about
a rotation axis.
[0008] Other systems, apparatuses, methods and advantages will be
or will become apparent to one skilled in the art upon examination
of the following figures and detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Further features and advantages of the present inventive
concept, as well as the structure and operation of various
embodiments of the present inventive concept, will become apparent
and more readily appreciated from the following description of the
preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings of which:
[0010] FIG. 1A is a drawing illustrating a side view of a
multimedia table, according to an embodiment;
[0011] FIG. 1B is a drawing illustrating a top view of an LCD side
of a tray of a multimedia table, according to an embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a front view of a
multimedia table positioned over a bed, according to an
embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of a
multimedia table, according to an embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of a
multimedia table undergoing rotation, according to an
embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of a
multimedia table rotated in an opposite orientation from FIG. 4,
according to an embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of a
multimedia table and the bending of a tray, according to an
embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of an
eating side of a tray of a multimedia table, according to an
embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating exemplary components
used to achieve automatically orientation adjustment, according to
an embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a figure illustrating a clutch used to lock the
rotatable tray into place, according to an embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 10A is a drawing illustrating inner mechanisms in order
that the table described herein can rotate (or pivot) on two
different axes, the table being in a locked position, according to
an embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 10B is a drawing illustrating inner mechanisms in order
that the table described herein can rotate (or pivot) on two
different axes, the table being in an unlocked position, according
to an embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating an external view of the
table and rotating tube, according to an embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 12A is a top view of the table with an electronic
motor, according to an embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 12B is a side view of the table with an electronic
motor, according to an embodiment;
[0025] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a multimedia table affixed
to a bed, according to an embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a multimedia table affixed
to a chair, according to an embodiment;
[0027] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a multimedia table affixed
to a chair in an open position, according to an embodiment; and
[0028] FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating three multimedia tables
affixed to a wall, according to an embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0029] Reference will now be made in detail to the presently
preferred embodiments of the inventive concept, examples of which
are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like
reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.
[0030] The inventive concept relates to a table with a rotating
tray. It can be useful for a patient lying in a hospital bed,
recovering in a nursing home or at home or any other user who may
find it appropriate for entertainment, as a method of
communication, to eat or other activities.
[0031] The present inventive concept provides for a multi function
table (including but not limited to a bedside table) that comprises
a rotating tray. The tray can have two sides, an eating side which
is adapted to receiving items used for eating such as plate(s),
utensils, etc. The tray can also have an LCD side which can
comprise an LCD output device (or any other video/electronic output
device as well such as plasma, HDTV, picture tube, etc.) A computer
(or other electronic device) can also be plugged into the
multimedia table (or directly into the output device) so that the
output device can be used to view computer output as well. The
multimedia table can have a touch screen computer or a touch screen
that uses the internet for computer applications, e.g. a "dumb
terminal." The touch screen can also be used to display a keyboard
so that the user can type on the screen the same way that a user
can type on a computer, or alternatively a physical keyboard can
also be used as well.
[0032] The table is typically self supporting and can cantilever
over a bed. The table houses a touch screen video display and data
input device that can be rotated from a nearly horizontal position
to a nearly vertical position. The table, when positioned to be
used by a person, resembles a `C` shape, which provides the ability
for it to be self supporting as well as being able to cantilever
over a bed (or other object such as a chair or couch).
[0033] Thus people using the device (such as a hospital patient or
even a home user) can communicate, surf the internet, watch movies,
listen to CDs, connect any USB device such as a camera, to the
touch screen computer. The computer can also include a camera,
microphone, speakers and/or headphones.
[0034] The tray can be rotated by the user, typically throughout
360 degrees of rotation. This way, the patient (typically stationed
in a hospital bed) can use the device to both eat as well as watch
television. The multimedia table can also easily fold up for easy
storage and transport. In another embodiment, the screen side of
the tray can be waterproof so the user can eat on the screen side
of the tray.
[0035] FIG. 1A is a drawing illustrating a top view of a multimedia
table, according to an embodiment.
[0036] A floor support 100 is typically flat so it can lie flat on
a floor and support the remaining apparatus. The floor support 100
can be locked into place or when unlocked, can rotate about floor
support pivot 102, typically for compact storage. A vertical member
104 (or connecting member) is connected to the floor support 100.
The vertical member 104 does not have to be strictly vertical but
can be angled as well. The vertical member 104 can also be
telescoping (in a manner such as a spyglass) so that a height of
the vertical member 104 and hence the top panel 112 can be adjusted
as needed. A CD-player 106 (or any other media player such as a
DVD, etc.) can be embedded into top panel 112. Top panel 112 is
typically substantially parallel to the floor support 100. Top
panel 112 can also contain computer processing electronics which
can improve the heat transfer characteristics of the device. In
another embodiment of the invention, the bottom side of top panel
112 can contain vents in its bottom side, and the video screen/tray
can contain no vents so there is no chance of liquid entering into
the device through the vents. The top panel can be made of any
dimensions and can be rectangular (which includes a square).
[0037] A top panel pivot 109 (rotating mechanism) bisects the top
panel 112 and a rotatable tray 108 and allows the rotatable tray
108 to rotate about an axis substantially parallel to the floor
support 100. The top panel pivot 109 is illustrated as a broken
line because it is not visible from the outside and can be any
rotation mechanism, such as a simple nail, screw, etc. A power cord
can be used to power the electronic devices on the table (e.g., the
video output device, CD/DVD drive, speakers, etc.) In a further
embodiment, a power cord does not have to be used, and power can be
supplied by a battery pack contained inside the table itself (e.g.,
in the floor support 100.) Data can be transmitted by infrared, RF
signal, or other wireless method to a receiving in the table.
[0038] A remote control can also be used to control the computer
and output displayed on the output device. Additionally, wheels 130
attached to the floor support (or base) 100 can be optional and can
be used to roll the table.
[0039] FIG. 1B is a drawing illustrating an LCD side of a tray of a
multimedia table, according to an embodiment.
[0040] The top panel 112 also contains a recessed cup holder 110.
The top panel pivot 109 allows the rotatable tray 108 to rotate
while the top panel 112 stays fixed. Typically, a patient can
simply apply force to the rotatable tray 108 in order to rotate the
rotatable tray 108 to the desired angle. An LCD screen 114
(although any other type of output device can be used such as a
touch screen) is present on a first side of the rotatable tray 108,
the LCD screen 114 can be controlled by a computer (not pictured)
and can display movies played from the CD/DVD drive 106.
[0041] A video camera with a microphone 101 can be used by the
patient for videoconferencing. The video camera can have a sliding
lens cap for privacy reasons. A left speaker 103 and a right
speaker 113 can be used to output audio associated with content
being displayed on the LCD screen 114. The user can also use
headphones which would be connected to a jack located in panel
112.
[0042] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a front view of a
multimedia table positioned over a bed, according to an
embodiment.
[0043] A bed 116 is illustrated in relation to the multimedia
table. The floor support 100 can be inserted under the bed 116. The
floor support pivot 102 can be locked into place when the
multimedia table is in use. A user (not pictured) lying in the bed
116 can watch the LCD screen 114 by rotating the rotatable tray 108
to an angle the user prefers for enjoyable viewing. The user can
also rotate the rotatable tray 108 to a second side which can be
adapted for eating.
[0044] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of a
multimedia table, according to an embodiment.
[0045] A front side ventilation slot 105 can be located on a front
side of the rotatable tray and an optional back side ventilation
slot 107 (not visible in FIG. 3) on a back side of the rotatable
tray.
[0046] Note that the top panel 112 is connected in a cantilever
manner (cantileverly) to the vertical member 104. In other words,
the top panel 112 is supported on only one end (via the vertical
member 104), thereby making it easy for the entire table apparatus
to be used on a bed or similar piece of furniture. Thus, the top
panel 112 and the rotatable tray 108 can be considered a
cantilever.
[0047] In another embodiment, there are no vents on the screen
portion of the table, and two forced air concentric ducts surround
the hinge and allow air to flow from the table to the base where
the air is exhausted. Another cooling concept employs the use of
cooling chips which can conduct heat into the house. One
disadvantage of using air vents is that they can allow germs to
accumulate where they cannot be easily cleaned.
[0048] The electronics (e.g., circuitry/processor for video output,
DVD player, etc.) can be located inside the top panel 112. Vents
can be located in a bottom of the top panel 112. If electronics
were located in the rotatable tray 108, then venting might be a
problem since liquids could be spilled into the electronics.
[0049] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of a
multimedia table undergoing rotation, according to an
embodiment.
[0050] The rotatable tray 108 rotates about an axis defined by the
top panel pivot 109. The top panel pivot 109 can be a rod that
inserts into the top panel 112 and goes through into the rotatable
tray 108. The top panel pivot 109 is shown as a broken line in FIG.
5 because it is not visible from the outside. The LCD screen 114 is
displaying a video (e.g., a movie).
[0051] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of a
multimedia table rotated in an opposite orientation from FIG. 4,
according to an embodiment.
[0052] Note that the LCD screen 114 is upside down relative to its
orientation in FIG. 4 (and also upside down to the orientation in
FIG. 3 if the patient in FIG. 3 is sitting away from the cup-holder
110). However, the video being displayed (the elephant) is still
being displayed in a proper orientation. This is because a sensor
(not pictured) can detect an angle that the rotatable tray 108 is
currently in (relative to a fixed point of reference such as the
top panel 112), and if it is rotated in an orientation that would
be considered upside down from an upright orientation, then a video
inverter can automatically vertically flip (e.g., vertically
invert) the video signal so that the video is displayed upright
(e.g., a top of the video corresponds to the top (higher) portion
of the LCD). For example, in FIG. 4, a standard orientation (e.g.,
one that requires no adjustment of the video signal) can be defined
whereby the front side ventilation slot 105 (or other area on this
side of the rotatable tray 108) is lower than the back side
ventilation slot 107 (or other area on this side of the rotatable
tray).
[0053] In FIG. 5, since the front side ventilation slot 105 (also
can be referred to as bottom ventilation slot) is now higher than
the back side ventilation slot 107 (also can be referred to as top
ventilation slot), then if the video were displayed according to
its native signal the video would appear upside down to viewing
patient. Thus, when the rotatable tray 108 is rotated into the
orientation illustrated in FIG. 5 (or other angle wherein the front
side ventilation slot or other area on this side of the rotatable
tray is higher than the back side ventilation slot 107 or other
area on this side of the rotatable tray), the video signal can
automatically be inverted (flipped) electronically before the
signal is outputted to the LCD screen 114. The signal can be
inverted by a vertical signal inverter (not pictured) what can
receive the video signal and then output the video signal to the
LCD screen 114 (or other output device). The angle of the tray can
be automatically detected as known in the art, such as using an
orientation/angle sensor (see U.S. Pat. No. 6,148,149, U.S. Pat.
No. 7,200,515, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,138,796, all three of which are
incorporated by reference in their entireties).
[0054] The signal can automatically flip appropriate as soon as the
angle of the rotatable tray in relation to a fixed point of
reference (such as the top panel 112) is greater than (or less
than) a predetermined angle. For example, if the position
illustrated in FIG. 3 is considered zero degrees, then the angle
illustrated in FIG. 4 can be considered to be 90 degrees and the
angle illustrated in FIG. 5 can be considered to be -90 degrees.
The automatic inverter can be programmed such that when the angle
is positive the video signal is not inverted, and when the angle is
negative the video signal is inverted.
[0055] It is noted that the vertical signal inversion is not just
limited to playing video but can be activated when any output is
being displayed on the LCD screen 114 (e.g., the patient is using a
computer which outputs to the LCD screen 114, viewing still
pictures, etc.)
[0056] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of a
multimedia table and the bending of a tray, according to an
embodiment. The tray and legs are both rotated in this view.
[0057] The floor support 100 can be rotated about a floor support
pivot 121 in order to fold up for compact storage and/or transport.
A locking mechanism can be used to lock the floor support 100 into
the position illustrated in FIG. 1, and a release mechanism (not
pictured) can be used in order to release the floor support 100 so
that the floor support 100 can rotate around the floor support
pivot 121 for folding.
[0058] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an isometric view of an
eating side of a tray of a multimedia table, according to an
embodiment.
[0059] The rotatable tray 108 has been rotated such that now the
eating side 125 of the rotatable tray 108 is on top. The eating
side 125 may also comprise a surface which is ideal for eating
(e.g., plastic coated) which can make cleaning easy.
[0060] In an embodiment, either or both side(s) of the rotatable
tray can have a removable disposable clear plastic screen cover for
sanitary purposes. The plastic screen cover can be adhered to the
screen or eating side with static electricity, or tape can hold it
into place.
[0061] In a further embodiment, either side (eating side and/or
output side) of the rotatable tray 108 can be slightly recessed so
that liquids will not spill off the table and onto the user.
[0062] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating exemplary components
used to achieve automatically orientation adjustment, according to
an embodiment.
[0063] An angle detector 800 detects the rotation angle of the
rotatable tray relative to a fixed point or reference vector. The
angle detector can be embedded in the top pane 112 or the rotatable
tray 108. The rotation angle can be transmitted to a processing
unit 802 which can be a microprocessor or any other type of
electronic control unit. The processing unit 802 can trigger a
video inverter 804 to invert a native video signal that is input
into the video inverter 804 when the rotation angle detected by the
angle detector 800 is one of the following: below a particular
angle; above a particular angle, or falls within a range or ranges
of angles. Thus, if the rotation angle is such that the output
device is "rightside up" or substantially "rightside up" (e.g.,
more rightside up than upside down) then the video inverter 804 is
not instructed by the processing unit 802 to invert the native
video signal. However, if the rotation angle is such that the
output device is upside down or substantially upside down (e.g.,
more upside down than rightside up) then the processing unit 802
can instruct the video inverter 804 to vertically invert the native
video signal. Whether or not the native video signal is inverted
(depending on the rotation angle), a video signal is outputted to
the output device (such as the LCD screen 114) so it can be
displayed.
[0064] Alternatively, instead of automatically detecting the
rotation angle and automatically inverting the signal if necessary,
a switch on the multimedia table can be used by the patient to
select whether the patient wishes the signal to be inverted or not
(typically depending on the rotation angle and where the patient is
located).
[0065] FIG. 9 is a figure illustrating a clutch used to lock the
rotatable tray into place, according to an embodiment.
[0066] The rotatable tray 108 is connected to the top panel pivot
(or axle) 109 allowing the rotatable tray 108 to rotate. A push
button 900 located on the end of top panel 112 is used to activate
a friction clutch 901. A spring 904 applies force to the axle
clutch plate 902, thereby preventing the axle 109 from rotating.
When the push button 900 is depressed, the clutch 901 is disengaged
allowing the axle 109 to rotate. When the push button 900 is
released, a clutch plate 902 is engaged thereby preventing rotation
of the axle. The clutch 901 may have gear teeth on its contact
surfaces to further inhibit rotation.
[0067] FIG. 10A is a drawing illustrating inner mechanisms in order
that the table described herein can rotate (or pivot) on two
different axes, the table being in a locked position, according to
an embodiment.
[0068] The table can bend as illustrated in FIG. 6 for storage.
This can be accomplished by using a latch (or lever) 1002, which,
when pulled, can cause the locking pin 1003 to retract inside the
top panel 112, as illustrated in FIG. 10B. This causes gravity to
cause the rotating table to bend around the folding pivot 1010 (and
place the table in the folded position as illustrated in FIG. 6).
If the operator wishes to unfold the table, the operator can
manually raise the table while the latch 1002 is extended, and then
push the latch 1002 back inside the top panel 112 when the table is
substantially parallel to the floor (e.g., parallel to the top
panel 112). Then the locking pin 1003 can then slide into a groove
to hold and lock the table upright, the groove 1015 being part of
the structure that houses the stationary teeth 1006. This would put
the table back in the position as illustrated in FIG. 10A. The
latch 1002 and locking pin 1003 are optional and if not provided,
then the table would not pivot (bend) as illustrated in FIG. 6 for
storage. Alternatively, the latch 1002 can be connected to a
linkage mechanism (not pictured) such that the latch 1002 would
have to be pushed to release the locking pin 1003 from the groove
1015 (thereby folding the table), and the latch would have to be
pulled to lock the locking pin 1003 back into the groove 1015
(thereby unfolding and locking the table).
[0069] The table can also rotate as illustrated in FIG. 4. This can
be accomplished by using apparatus in FIG. 9 or alternatively using
another configuration as illustrated in FIG. 10. When the operator
desires to rotate the table, the operator can pull outward on a
pull handle 1000. A spring 1008 is exerting force in the opposite
direction of a pull on the handle. Once the pull handle 1000 is
pulled, rotating circular teeth 1004 are then disengaged from
complimentary stationary teeth 1006 and then the table (which
houses a rotating tube 1012) can then be rotated. When the table is
rotated to the desired rotation, then the operator can release the
pull handle 1000 which in turn causes the spring 1008 to cause a
member 1014 to press towards the rotating circular teeth 1004 and
engage the stationary circular teeth 1006, thereby preventing
further rotation of the table.
[0070] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the rotation of
the table is available only in fixed increments of rotation (e.g.,
15 degrees for each tooth in the complimentary teeth (the
stationary circular teeth 1006 and the rotating circular teeth
1004). Using this apparatus, once the table is locked into a
rotational angle, it would not rotate again until the pull handle
1000 is activated.
[0071] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating an external view of the
table and rotating tube.
[0072] The rotating table 108 rotates adjacent to a stationary top
panel 112. The pull handle 1000 is used to rotate the rotating
table 108. The rotating tube 1012 houses the rotating circular
teeth 1004, the spring 1008, member 1014, and any other apparatus
used/needed to effectuate the rotating.
[0073] In a further embodiment, instead of a user manually rotating
the rotatable tray, an electronic motor can automatically rotate
the rotatable tray, thereby making operation easier on the user.
This can be especially beneficial for users with limited movement
capability or others who want to operate the unit using a remote
control or any other input device.
[0074] FIG. 12A is a top view of the table with an electronic
motor.
[0075] The rotatable tray 108 can rotate about the stationary top
panel 112 using an electronic motor 1200. Control circuitry 1202
can control operation of the electronic motor. A gear set 1204 can
be used to facilitate rotation of the rotatable tray 108. For
example, instead of having an axle directly connected to the motor
1200 rotate the rotatable tray 108, a gear or gear set 1204 can be
used. The gear set 1204 can serve numerous purposes, for example,
the motor may turn too quickly and thus using a gear can slow the
rotation of the rotatable tray 108. Additionally, the electronic
motor 1200 may not be powerful enough to directly rotate the
rotatable tray 108, however using a gear 108 can result in the
rotation of the rotatable tray 108 to be slower than the rotation
of the motor 1200. In this manner, a less powerful motor can still
rotate the rotatable tray 108. Conversely, if the motor 1200 is too
powerful, a gear set 1204 can be used to reduce the force of the
rotation of the motor 1200, thereby slowing the rotation of the
rotatable tray 108.
[0076] FIG. 12B is a side view of the table with an electronic
motor.
[0077] The axle of the motor 1200 (not pictured) is connected to
the gear set 1202 which is then connected to the rotatable tray 108
using a gear axle (not pictured) which actually rotates the
rotatable tray 108. The motor 1200, gear set 1204, and control
circuitry 1202 can be housed in the top panel 112. The control
circuitry controls operation of motor 1200, such as turning it on
and off and which direction it rotates. The control circuitry 1202
can be controlled by a remote control (not pictured) or by a keypad
(or other input device) (not pictured) on the outside of the top
panel 112.
[0078] The gear set 1204 may also have a transmission unit built in
with a resistance/collision feedback sensor. Thus, during rotation,
if a collision is detected, the motor can automatically be turned
off to prevent injury or damage to the table.
[0079] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a multimedia table affixed
to a bed, according to an embodiment.
[0080] A vertical member 1302 is attached to a mounting apparatus
1300, which mounts the vertical member 1302 to a bottom portion
1301 of a bed. The mounting apparatus can be any connecting
apparatus, such as screws, nails, etc. The vertical member 1302 is
connected to a top panel 1306, which is connected to a rotatable
tray 1304.
[0081] All of the embodiments, structure, and features described
herein can be applied to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13,
wherein a multimedia table is attached to a bed. The rotatable tray
1304 can be rotated as described herein.
[0082] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a multimedia table affixed
to a chair, according to an embodiment.
[0083] A vertical member 1402 is attached to a mounting apparatus
1400, which mounts the vertical member 1402 to a bottom portion
1401 of a chair. The mounting apparatus can be any connecting
apparatus, such as screws, nails, etc. The vertical member 1402 is
connected to a top panel 1404, which is connected to a rotatable
tray 1406.
[0084] All of the embodiments, structure, and features described
herein can be applied to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14,
wherein a multimedia table is attached to a chair. The rotatable
tray 1406 can be rotated as described herein.
[0085] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a multimedia table affixed
to a chair in an open position, according to an embodiment.
[0086] FIG. 15 is similar to FIG. 14, but shows the top panel 1504
and rotatable tray 1506 in an open position, which allows a person
to sit on the chair or get off the chair. A hinge 1503 is connected
to the vertical member 1502 which allows the top panel 1504 and its
connected rotatable tray 1506 to be raised and lowered.
[0087] FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating three multimedia tables
affixed to a wall, according to an embodiment.
[0088] A securing apparatus 1600 secures a vertical member 1601 to
a wall. The securing apparatus 1600 can be screws, nails, adhesive,
Velcro, or any known securing apparatus. The vertical member 1601
is attached to a top panel 1602 which is attached to a rotatable
tray 1604.
[0089] All of the embodiments, structure, and features described
herein can be applied to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16,
wherein a multimedia table is attached to a wall.
[0090] The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of
illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive
or to limit the scope of the claims to the precise forms disclosed.
Modifications or variations are possible in light of the above
teachings. All such modifications and variations are within the
scope of the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with
the breadth to which they are fairly and legally entitled.
* * * * *