U.S. patent application number 14/452742 was filed with the patent office on 2016-02-11 for apparatus for a handrail system having railings.
The applicant listed for this patent is Bradly Jonathan Edward KNIGHT. Invention is credited to Bradly Jonathan Edward KNIGHT.
Application Number | 20160037906 14/452742 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55266448 |
Filed Date | 2016-02-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160037906 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KNIGHT; Bradly Jonathan
Edward |
February 11, 2016 |
APPARATUS FOR A HANDRAIL SYSTEM HAVING RAILINGS
Abstract
An apparatus for a handrail system having railings; the
apparatus includes: a rail-mountable assembly; a table assembly
having a table surface; a sub-mount assembly; a folding assembly;
and an interlocking bracket assembly, including a first mounting
bracket configured to be fixedly connected to the rail-mountable
assembly and a second mounting bracket configured to be fixedly
connected to the sub-mount assembly. The first mounting bracket and
the second mounting bracket are configured to be selectively
engageable with each other.
Inventors: |
KNIGHT; Bradly Jonathan Edward;
(Calgary, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
KNIGHT; Bradly Jonathan Edward |
Calgary |
|
CA |
|
|
Family ID: |
55266448 |
Appl. No.: |
14/452742 |
Filed: |
August 6, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
108/42 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 7/044 20130101;
A47B 5/04 20130101; E04F 11/1844 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47B 5/04 20060101
A47B005/04; A47B 13/00 20060101 A47B013/00; E04F 11/18 20060101
E04F011/18 |
Claims
1. An apparatus, comprising: a rail-mountable assembly configured
to be fixedly connected to a selected length of the railings of a
handrail system; a table assembly having a table surface; a
sub-mount assembly; a folding assembly configured to be fixedly
connected to the table assembly, and also configured to be fixedly
connected to the sub-mount assembly; and an interlocking bracket
assembly, including: a first mounting bracket configured to be
fixedly connected to, and project from, the rail-mountable
assembly; and a second mounting bracket configured to be fixedly
connected to, and project from, the sub-mount assembly; and the
first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket configured
to be selectively engageable with each other; and wherein: the
first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket are
configured to be selectively slide engageable with each other; and
the first mounting bracket includes a first base portion, and also
includes first longitudinal side rails that extend from opposite
sides of the first base portion in such a way as to form a U shaped
profile, and opposite ends of the first longitudinal side rails
define openings; and the second mounting bracket includes second
longitudinal side rails positioned on opposite sides of the second
mounting bracket, and also includes a stop portion positioned at an
end of the second longitudinal side rails, and also includes an
opening defined at the end located opposite to the stop portion,
and the opening is positioned at another end of the second
longitudinal side rails opposite from the stop portion; and the
first longitudinal side rails and the second longitudinal side
rails are slide engageable with each other.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the folding assembly is also
configured to permit selective foldable movement of the table
assembly between a table-deployment position and a table-storage
position in response to the folding assembly receiving an
application of a force to do just so; in the table-storage
position, the table assembly is moved towards the sub-mount
assembly in such a way that space underneath the table assembly is
reduced, at least in part; and in the table-deployment position,
the table assembly is moved away from the sub-mount assembly in
such a way that space underneath the table assembly is increased,
at least in part.
3. An apparatus, comprising: a rail-mountable assembly configured
to be fixedly connected to a selected length of the railings of a
handrail system; a table assembly having a table surface; a
sub-mount assembly; a folding assembly configured to be fixedly
connected to the table assembly, and also configured to be fixedly
connected to the sub-mount assembly; and an interlocking bracket
assembly, including: a first mounting bracket configured to be
fixedly connected to, and project from, the rail-mountable
assembly; and a second mounting bracket configured to be fixedly
connected to, and project from, the sub-mount assembly; and the
first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket configured
to be selectively engageable with each other; and wherein: the
first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket are each
configured to support a vertical load; the first mounting bracket
includes a first base portion, and also includes first longitudinal
side rails that extend from opposite sides of the first base
portion in such a way as to form a U shaped profile, and opposite
ends of the first longitudinal side rails define openings; and the
second mounting bracket includes second longitudinal side rails
positioned on opposite sides of the second mounting bracket, and
also includes a stop portion positioned at an end of the second
longitudinal side rails, and also includes an opening defined at
the end located opposite to the stop portion, and the opening is
positioned at another end of the second longitudinal side rails
opposite from the stop portion; and the first longitudinal side
rails and the second longitudinal side rails are slide engageable
with each other; and the first mounting bracket and the second
mounting bracket are slide engageable with each other in such a way
that: the rail-mountable assembly and the second mounting bracket
are engaged with each other in an engagement position in which the
first mounting bracket remains fixedly connected to the
rail-mountable assembly, the second mounting bracket remains
fixedly connected to the sub-mount assembly, and the rail-mountable
assembly and the second mounting bracket are engaged with each
other; and the rail-mountable assembly and the second mounting
bracket are disengageable from each other in a disengagement
position in which the first mounting bracket remains fixedly
connected to the rail-mountable assembly, the second mounting
bracket remains fixedly connected to the sub-mount assembly, and
the rail-mountable assembly and the second mounting bracket are
disengaged from each other.
4. (canceled)
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the first mounting bracket
and the second mounting bracket are configured to transfer weight
from the table assembly, the folding assembly and the sub-mount
assembly toward the rail-mountable assembly and the railings of the
handrail system in such a way that the table assembly remains
operatively supported at a table-storage position and at a
table-deployment position.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the table assembly has a
rectangular shape.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the sub-mount assembly has a
length equal to the length of the table assembly.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the sub-mount assembly has a
rectangular shape.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the first mounting bracket
includes a male portion; and the second mounting bracket includes a
female portion.
10. An apparatus, comprising: a rail-mountable assembly configured
to be fixedly connected to a selected length of the railings of a
handrail system: a table assembly having a table surface; a
sub-mount assembly; a folding assembly configured to be fixedly
connected to the table assembly, and also configured to be fixedly
connected to the sub-mount assembly; and an interlocking bracket
assembly, including: a first mounting bracket configured to be
fixedly connected to, and project from, the rail-mountable
assembly; and a second mounting bracket configured to be fixedly
connected to, and project from, the sub-mount assembly; and the
first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket configured
to be selectively engageable with each other; and wherein: the
second mounting bracket includes: second longitudinal side rails
being positioned on opposite sides of the second mounting bracket;
a stop portion being positioned at an end of the second
longitudinal side rails; an opening being defined at the end
located opposite to the stop portion, and the opening being
positioned at another end of the second longitudinal side rails
opposite from the stop portion; and a second base portion extending
between the second longitudinal side rails.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein: the first mounting bracket
includes: a first base portion; and first longitudinal side rails
extending from opposite sides of the first base portion; and
wherein the first longitudinal side rails extend from opposite
sides of the first base portion in such a way as to form a U shaped
profile, and opposite ends of the first longitudinal side rails
define openings.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the folding assembly
includes: a first folding portion configured to be fixedly
connected to the table assembly; and a second folding portion
configured to be fixedly connected to the sub-mount assembly.
13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein: the first folding portion
and the second folding portion are pivotally connected together at
a pivot, and the first folding portion and the second folding
portion are configured to be pivotally movable relative to each
other at the pivot between a table-deployment position and a
table-storage position.
14. (canceled)
15. (canceled)
16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein: the first folding portion
and the second folding portion are configured to permit selective
foldable movement of the table assembly between a table-deployment
position and a table-storage position in response to the folding
assembly receiving an application of a force to do just so.
17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: instances of the
interlocking bracket assembly are spaced apart and are mounted to a
table-facing side of the rail-mountable assembly.
18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the rail-mountable assembly
defines a set of slots spaced apart from each other and aligned in
a row with each other; and each slot of the set of slots is
elongated and is configured to permit accommodation of different
types and sizes of the railings of the handrail system.
19. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the rail-mountable assembly
includes: a coupling nut; a carriage bolt including a shaft portion
defining threads configured to mate with the coupling nut, and also
includes a flared head portion extending from a shaft portion of
the carriage bolt; and a mounting clip defining a hole dimensioned
to receive the carriage bolt; and the mounting clip, the coupling
nut and the carriage bolt, in combination, are configured to
fixedly connect the rail-mountable assembly to the railings.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein: the carriage bolt is
configured to pass through, at least in part, a slot provided by
the rail-mountable assembly so that a flared head of the carriage
bolt abuts the side of the rail-mountable assembly; the flared head
portion of the carriage bolt abuts a table-facing side of the
rail-mountable assembly; the shaft portion of the carriage bolt
extends through the slot; the mounting clip is positioned on the
selected length of the railings; the mounting clip is configured to
span across, and abut with, at least two adjacently located
instances of the railings; the shaft portion of the carriage bolt
extends through the hole of the mounting clip; the coupling nut is
threadably connected to the shaft portion of the carriage bolt; and
the coupling nut is turned in such a way that a clamping force is
imparted to the mounting clip, and the railings are forcibly
clamped or sandwiched between the mounting clip and the
rail-mountable assembly.
21. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein: the folding assembly
includes: a first folding portion configured to be fixedly
connected to the table assembly; and a second folding portion
configured to be fixedly connected to the sub-mount assembly; and
the first folding portion and the second folding portion are
pivotally connected together at a pivot, and the first folding
portion and the second folding portion are configured to be
pivotally movable relative to each other at the pivot between a
table-deployment position and a table-storage position.
22. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein: the folding assembly
includes: a first folding portion configured to be fixedly
connected to the table assembly; and a second folding portion
configured to be fixedly connected to the sub-mount assembly; and
the first folding portion and the second folding portion are
pivotally connected together at a pivot, and the first folding
portion and the second folding portion are configured to be
pivotally movable relative to each other at the pivot between a
table-deployment position and a table-storage position.
23. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein: the folding assembly
includes: a first folding portion configured to be fixedly
connected to the table assembly; and a second folding portion
configured to be fixedly connected to the sub-mount assembly; and
the first folding portion and the second folding portion are
pivotally connected together at a pivot, and the first folding
portion and the second folding portion are configured to be
pivotally movable relative to each other at the pivot between a
table-deployment position and a table-storage position.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] Some aspects generally relate to (and are not limited to) an
apparatus for a handrail system having railings, and apparatus 100
includes (for example) a table assembly having a table surface.
SUMMARY
[0002] In view of the foregoing, it will be appreciated that there
exists a need to mitigate (at least in part) problems associated
with existing tables configured for operative connection to a
handrail system having railings.
[0003] In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s)
identified with existing tables configured for operative connection
to a handrail system having railings, there is provided (in
accordance with an aspect) an apparatus for a handrail system
having railings, the apparatus comprising: a rail-mountable
assembly configured to be fixedly connected to a selected length of
the railings of the handrail system; a table assembly having a
table surface; a sub-mount assembly; a folding assembly configured
to be fixedly connected to the table assembly, and also configured
to be fixedly connected to the sub-mount assembly; and an
interlocking bracket assembly, including: a first mounting bracket
configured to be fixedly connected to, and project from, the
rail-mountable assembly; and a second mounting bracket configured
to be fixedly connected to, and project from, the sub-mount
assembly; and the first mounting bracket and the second mounting
bracket configured to be selectively engageable with each
other.
[0004] In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s)
identified with existing tables configured for operative connection
to a handrail system having railings, there is provided (in
accordance with an aspect) an apparatus for a handrail system
having railings; the apparatus includes (and is not limited to):
(A) a rail-mountable assembly configured to be fixedly connected to
a selected length of the railings of the handrail system; (B) a
table assembly having a table surface; (C) a sub-mount assembly;
(D) a folding assembly configured to be fixedly connected to the
table assembly, and also configured to be fixedly connected to the
sub-mount assembly, and also configured to permit selective
foldable movement of the table assembly between a table-deployment
position and a table-storage position in response to the folding
assembly receiving an application of a force to do just so; in the
table-storage position, the table assembly is moved (folded)
towards the sub-mount assembly in such a way that space underneath
the table assembly is reduced at least in part; and in the
table-deployment position, the table assembly is moved (folded)
away from the sub-mount assembly in such a way that space
underneath the table assembly is increased at least in part; and
(E) an interlocking bracket assembly, including: a first mounting
bracket configured to be fixedly connected to, and project from,
the rail-mountable assembly; and a second mounting bracket
configured to be fixedly connected to, and project from, the
sub-mount assembly; and the first mounting bracket and the second
mounting bracket are configured to be selectively engageable with
each other.
[0005] In order to mitigate, at least in part, the problem(s)
identified above, in accordance with an aspect, there is provided
other aspects as identified in the claims.
[0006] Other aspects and features of the non-limiting embodiments
may now become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of
the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments
with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The non-limiting embodiments may be more fully appreciated
by reference to the following detailed description of the
non-limiting embodiments when taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0008] FIG. 1 (SHEET 1 of 16 SHEETS) depicts a front view of an
embodiment of a handrail system having railings;
[0009] FIGS. 2a to 2c (SHEETS 2 to 4 of 16 SHEETS) depict
perspective views of embodiments of an apparatus for the handrail
system having the railings of FIG. 1;
[0010] FIGS. 3a to 3o (SHEETS 5 to 8 of 16 SHEETS) depict views of
embodiments of the apparatus of FIGS. 2a to 2c; and
[0011] FIGS. 4a to 4h (SHEETS 9 to 16 of 16 SHEETS) depict views of
embodiments of the apparatus of FIGS. 2a to 2c.
[0012] The drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be
illustrated by phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and
fragmentary views. In certain instances, details not necessary for
an understanding of the embodiments (and/or details that render
other details difficult to perceive) may have been omitted.
[0013] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding
components throughout the several figures of the Drawings. Elements
in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity
and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the
dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized
relative to other elements for facilitating an understanding of the
various presently disclosed embodiments. In addition, common, but
well-understood, elements that are useful or necessary in
commercially feasible embodiments are often not depicted in order
to facilitate a less obstructed view of the various embodiments of
the present disclosure.
LISTING OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN THE DRAWINGS
[0014] 100 apparatus [0015] 102 rail-mountable assembly [0016] 104
table assembly [0017] 106 table surface [0018] 108 folding assembly
[0019] 109 slot [0020] 110 sub-mount assembly [0021] 111 stop
portion [0022] 112 interlocking bracket assembly [0023] 113 side
rails [0024] 114 first mounting bracket [0025] 115 opening [0026]
116 second mounting bracket [0027] 117 fastening holes [0028] 119
base portion [0029] 121 base portion [0030] 123 fastening holes
[0031] 124 fastening holes [0032] 125 side rails [0033] 127 first
folding portion [0034] 128 fastening holes [0035] 129 second
folding portion [0036] 131 pivot [0037] 133 table-facing side
[0038] 137 slot [0039] 139 mounting clip [0040] 141 hole [0041] 143
coupling nut [0042] 145 carriage bolt [0043] 146 fastening holes
[0044] 147 mounting hardware [0045] 149 connector [0046] 151 hex
portion [0047] 900 handrail system [0048] 902 railings [0049] 904
horizontal hand rail [0050] 906 rail [0051] 910 floor
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0052] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in
nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or
the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used
herein, the word "exemplary" or "illustrative" means "serving as an
example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation described
herein as "exemplary" or "illustrative" is not necessarily to be
construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.
All of the implementations described below are exemplary
implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to
make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended
to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the
claims. For purposes of the description herein, the terms "upper,"
"lower," "left," "rear," "right," "front," "vertical,"
"horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the examples
as oriented in the drawings. Furthermore, there is no intention to
be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the
preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the
following detailed description. It is also to be understood that
the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached
drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply
exemplary embodiments (examples), aspects and/or concepts defined
in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other
physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed
herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims
expressly state otherwise. It is understood that "at least one" is
equivalent to "a". The aspects (examples, alterations,
modifications, options, variations, embodiments and any equivalent
thereof) are described with reference to the drawings. It should be
understood that the invention is limited to the subject matter
provided by the claims, and that the invention is not limited to
the particular aspects depicted and described.
[0053] FIG. 1 depicts a front view of an embodiment of a handrail
system 900 having railings 902.
[0054] In accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 1, the handrail
system 900 includes railings 902, a horizontal hand rail 904, and a
horizontal foot rail 906. The railings 902 are also called
vertically-extending rail members or rail struts. The handrail
system 900 is configured to be operatively mounted to a floor 910
(also called a balcony floor or a working surface). Specifically,
the horizontal foot rail 906 is configured to be fixedly attached
to the floor 910. Each of the railings 902 is fixedly attached to
(and vertically extends from) the horizontal foot rail 906. The
railings 902 are spaced apart from each other. The horizontal hand
rail 904 is fixedly connected to the top portions of each of the
railings 902. The horizontal hand rail 904 and the horizontal foot
rail 906 are parallel to each other and are spaced apart from each
other.
[0055] FIGS. 2a to 2c depict perspective views of embodiments of an
apparatus 100 for the handrail system 900 having the railings 902
of FIG. 1.
[0056] The apparatus 100 is configured to be operatively mountable
to the railings 902. The apparatus 100 includes a table assembly
104. FIG. 2a depicts a table-deployment position of the table
assembly 104 once the apparatus 100 is operatively mounted to the
railings 902. FIG. 2b depicts a table-storage position of the table
assembly 104 once the apparatus 100 is operatively mounted to the
railings 902. FIG. 2c depicts the table assembly 104 detached
(separated) from a rail-mountable assembly 102; the rail-mountable
assembly 102 is configured to be fixedly attached to the railings
902.
[0057] FIGS. 3a to 3o depict views of embodiments of the apparatus
100 of FIGS. 2a to 2c.
[0058] In accordance with the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3a
(showing a top view), the apparatus 100 includes a table assembly
104 having a table surface 106. The table surface 106 is configured
to receive user items (such as plates, drinking glasses, etc.). The
table assembly 104 is depicted as having a rectangular shape; it
will be appreciated that the table assembly 104 may have any
desired shape provided that the shape of the table assembly 104 may
be operatively fitted with the assemblies of the apparatus 100. The
table assembly 104 may be made of or may include any suitable type
of material (wood, steel, plastic, etc.).
[0059] In accordance with the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3b and
3c (showing side views), the apparatus 100 also includes a
sub-mount assembly 110. The sub-mount assembly 110 has a length
equal to the length of the table assembly 104. The sub-mount
assembly 110 has two sides; a first side 105 (depicted in FIG. 3b)
is for facing the table assembly 104, and a second side 107
(depicted in FIG. 3c) is for facing toward the railings 902 of the
handrail system 900 of FIG. 1. The sub-mount assembly 110 is
depicted as having a rectangular shape; it will be appreciated that
the sub-mount assembly 110 may have any desired shape provided that
the shape of the sub-mount assembly 110 may be operatively fitted
with the assemblies of the apparatus 100. The sub-mount assembly
110 may be made of or may include any suitable type of material
(wood, steel, plastic, etc.).
[0060] In accordance with the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3b
(showing a side view), the apparatus 100 also includes a folding
assembly 108 (which is also called a hinge assembly or a hinge
device). As depicted, there are four instances of the folding
assembly 108. It will be appreciated that the number of instances
of the folding assembly 108 may vary depending on the length of the
table assembly 104 of FIG. 3a and other factors such as the weight
of the table assembly 104, the weight to be operatively supported
by the table assembly 104, etc. The instances of the folding
assembly 108 are spaced apart (evenly) from each other along the
length of the sub-mount assembly 110. Each instance of the folding
assembly 108 is configured to be fixedly connected to the first
side 105 of the sub-mount assembly 110. An example of the folding
assembly 108 is manufactured by EVERBILT Model 859-806 Folding
Shelf Bracket (and any equivalent bracket). The folding assembly
108 may be snap-clicked into and opened position and/or a closed
position (if so desired). The folding assembly 108 may be made of
or may include any suitable type of material (steel, plastic,
etc.). Fastening holes 124 are defined by the sub-mount assembly
110, and the fastening holes 124 are configured to interface with
fastening holes (not depicted) of the folding assembly 108: in this
manner, the folding assembly 108 may be bolted (fixedly attached)
to the sub-mount assembly 110 (once the fastening holes are aligned
with each other).
[0061] In accordance with the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3c
(showing a side view), the apparatus 100 also includes an
interlocking bracket assembly 112 (what is specifically depicted is
a first mounting bracket 114 of the interlocking bracket assembly
112 of FIG. 3e). As depicted, there are four instances of the
interlocking bracket assembly 112. It will be appreciated that the
number of instances of the interlocking bracket assembly 112 may
vary depending on the length of the table assembly 104 of FIG. 3a
and other factors such as the weight of the table assembly 104, the
weight to be operatively supported by the table assembly 104, etc.
The instances of the interlocking bracket assembly 112 are spaced
apart (evenly) from each other along the length of the sub-mount
assembly 110. Each instance of the interlocking bracket assembly
112 is configured to be fixedly connected to (and project from) the
second side 107 of the sub-mount assembly 110. In accordance with
an option, the sub-mount assembly 110 defines a slot 109 (also
called a groove, etc.). The slot 109 is configured to receive, at
least in part, a carriage bolt 145 (depicted in FIG. 3n) for the
case where the carriage bolt 145 is long enough to interfere with
the sub-mount assembly 110 if the slot 109 were not present. The
fastening holes 128 are defined by the sub-mount assembly 110, and
are configured to interface with the fastening holes 117 (depicted
in FIG. 3e) of an interlocking bracket assembly 112 (or to the
fastening holes 123 of the interlocking bracket assembly 112 if so
desired); in this manner, the interlocking bracket assembly 112 may
be bolted (fixedly attached) to the sub-mount assembly 110 (once
the fastening holes are aligned with each other). The interlocking
bracket assembly 112 is configured to be fixedly connected to (and
project orthogonally from) the second side 107 of the sub-mount
assembly 110. The first mounting bracket and the second mounting
bracket are configured to be selectively engageable (such as, side
engageable) with each other and also disengageable (such as, slide
disengageable) with (from) each other.
[0062] In accordance with the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3d
(showing a top perspective view) and 3e (showing a perspective
view), the apparatus 100 also includes the interlocking bracket
assembly 112. The interlocking bracket assembly 112 includes a
first mounting bracket 114 and a second mounting bracket 116. For
instance, the first mounting bracket 114 is configured to be
fixedly connected to (and project from) the sub-mount assembly 110
of FIG. 3b. More specifically, the first mounting bracket 114 is
configured to be fixedly connected to (and project orthogonally
from) the sub-mount assembly 11. For instance, the second mounting
bracket 116 is configured to be fixedly connected (and project
from) to the rail-mountable assembly 102 of FIG. 3k. The first
mounting bracket 114 may be called a male portion. The second
mounting bracket 116 may be called a female portion. The first
mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket 116 are
configured to be selectively engageable with each other. The first
mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket 116 are
configured to be selectively disengageable from each other. More
specifically, the first mounting bracket 114 and the second
mounting bracket 116 are configured to be selectively slide
engageable (selectively interlockable) with each other between an
engaged position (also may be called a locked position) and a
disengaged position (also may be called an unlocked position). FIG.
3d depicts the first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting
bracket 116 slide-engaged with each other in the engaged position.
FIG. 3e depicts the first mounting bracket 114 and the second
mounting bracket 116 in which they are not slide-engaged with each
other in the disengaged position.
[0063] In accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 3e (showing a
perspective view), the second mounting bracket 116 includes a stop
portion 111 positioned at a distal end of the second mounting
bracket 116. The second mounting bracket 116 also includes
longitudinal side rails 113 positioned on opposite sides of the
second mounting bracket 116, and the stop portion 111 is positioned
at the end of the longitudinal side rails 113. An opening 115 is
defined at an end located opposite to the stop portion 111, and the
opening 115 is positioned at another end of the longitudinal side
rails 113 opposite from the stop portion 111. The second mounting
bracket 116 also includes a base portion 119 that extends between
the longitudinal side rails 113. The base portion 119 defines
fastening holes 117. It will be appreciated that the number of
instances of the fastening holes 117 may vary depending on the
weight to be supported by the table assembly 104 of FIG. 3a. The
fastening holes 117 are aligned one after the other along a
row.
[0064] In accordance with the embodiment of FIG. 3e (showing a
perspective view), the first mounting bracket 114 includes a base
portion 121 defining four instances of fastening holes 123 that are
aligned one after the other along a row. It will be appreciated
that the number of instances of the fastening holes 123 may vary
depending on the weight to be supported by the table assembly 104
of FIG. 3a. The first mounting bracket 114 also includes
longitudinal side rails 125 that extend from opposite sides of the
base portion 121 in such a way as to form a U shaped profile. The
opposite ends of the longitudinal side rails 125 define openings.
The longitudinal side rails 125 and the longitudinal side rails 113
are configured to be slide engageable with each other. The first
mounting bracket 114 has longitudinal side rails 125. The second
mounting bracket 116 has longitudinal side rails 113. The
longitudinal side rails 125 and the longitudinal side rails 113 are
slide engageable with each other.
[0065] The first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting
bracket 116 are slide engageable with each other in such a way that
the rail-mountable assembly 102 and the second mounting bracket 116
are engaged with each other in an engagement position (depicted in
FIGS. 4e, 4f, 4g) in which the first mounting bracket 114 remains
fixedly connected to the rail-mountable assembly 102, the second
mounting bracket 116 remains fixedly connected to the sub-mount
assembly 110, and the rail-mountable assembly 102 and the second
mounting bracket 116 are engaged with each other.
[0066] The first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting
bracket 116 are slide engageable with each other in such a way that
the rail-mountable assembly 102 and the second mounting bracket 116
are disengaged from each other in a disengagement position
(depicted in FIG. 4h) in which the first mounting bracket 114
remains fixedly connected to the rail-mountable assembly 102, the
second mounting bracket 116 remains fixedly connected to the
sub-mount assembly 110, and the rail-mountable assembly 102 and the
second mounting bracket 116 are disengaged with each other.
[0067] The second mounting bracket 116 provides the stop portion
111, which is a load-bearing (horizontally-aligned) support
configured to support an edge portion of the first mounting bracket
114 (as depicted in FIG. 3e).
[0068] The first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting
bracket 116 each project from a vertically-aligned structure (once
fixedly mounted to do just so), and is configured to support a
vertical load.
[0069] In accordance with the embodiments of FIGS. 3f, 3g and 3h
(showing cross-sectional views), the first mounting bracket 114
forms a generally U-shaped profile (or a U-shaped cross-section),
and the second mounting bracket 116 forms a generally C-shaped
profile (or a C-shaped cross-section). FIG. 3h depicts the first
mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket 116 that are
slide-engaged with each other in an engaged position. FIGS. 3f and
3g depict the first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting
bracket 116 that are not slide-engaged with each other in a
disengaged position.
[0070] In accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 3i and 3j
(showing side views), the apparatus 100 includes the folding
assembly 108. The folding assembly 108 includes a first folding
portion 127 and a second folding portion 129. The first folding
portion 127 of the folding assembly 108 is configured to be fixedly
connected to the table assembly 104. The second folding portion 129
of the folding assembly 108 is also configured to be fixedly
connected to the sub-mount assembly 110. The first folding portion
127 and the second folding portion 129 are pivotally connected
together at a pivot 131. The first folding portion 127 and the
second folding portion 129 are configured to be pivotally movable
relative to each other at the pivot 131 between a table-deployment
position (as depicted in FIG. 3j) and a table-storage position (as
depicted in FIG. 3i). The first folding portion 127 and the second
folding portion 129 are configured to be lockable at the
table-deployment position (as depicted in FIG. 3j), and in this
manner the table assembly 104 cannot inadvertently dislodge and
move from the table-deployment position (FIG. 3j) to a
table-storage position (as depicted in FIG. 3i). In accordance with
an option, the first folding portion 127 and the second folding
portion 129 are configured to be lockable at the table-storage
position (as depicted in FIG. 3i), if so desired. The folding
assembly 108 is configured to permit selective foldable movement of
the table assembly 104 between the table-deployment position (as
depicted in FIG. 3j) and the table-storage position (as depicted in
FIG. 3i). It will be appreciated that selective foldable movement
of the folding assembly 108 may be accomplished in response to the
folding assembly 108 receiving an application of a force to do just
so. In the table-storage position, the table assembly 104 is moved
(such as, folded) towards the sub-mount assembly 110 in such a way
that space underneath the table assembly 104 is reduced (at least
in part). In the table-deployment position, the table assembly 104
is moved (such as, folded) away from the sub-mount assembly 110 in
such a way that space underneath the table assembly 104 is
increased, at least in part (and for this case, the table assembly
104 may be used to receive user items, such as plates, cutlery,
etc.). The folding assembly 108 is configured to allow for the
table assembly 104 to be folded and out of the way for the case
where the table assembly 104 is not in use. The folding assembly
108 is configured to fold upwardly to 90 degrees (in a horizontal
condition or alignment) and folds back down (in a vertical
condition or alignment). In the up position (FIG. 3j), the folding
assembly 108 is configured to lock in position to form a 90 degree
angle between the first folding portion 127 and the second folding
portion 129. A connector 149 operatively fixedly connects the
second folding portion 129 to the sub-mount assembly 110 (for
instance, a bolt and nut may threadably fixedly connect the second
folding portion 129 to the sub-mount assembly 110 if so desired, or
a pop rivet may be used if desired). The connector 149 operatively
fixedly connects the first folding portion 127 to the table
assembly 104 (for instance, a screw may threadably fixedly connect
the first folding portion 127 to the table assembly 104 if so
desired).
[0071] In accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 3k, 3l, 3m, 3n
and 3o (showing side views), the apparatus 100 includes the
rail-mountable assembly 102.
[0072] FIG. 3k depicts a side view of a table-facing side 133 of
the rail-mountable assembly 102. The instances of the interlocking
bracket assembly 112 are spaced apart and are mounted to the
table-facing side 133 of the rail-mountable assembly 102 (what is
specifically depicted is the second mounting bracket 116 of the
interlocking bracket assembly 112 of FIG. 3e). The rail-mountable
assembly 102 defines a set of slots 137 that are spaced apart from
each other and aligned in a row with each other. The rail-mountable
assembly 102 is depicted as having a rectangular shape; it will be
appreciated that the rail-mountable assembly 102 may have any
desired shape provided that the shape of the rail-mountable
assembly 102 may be operatively fitted with the assemblies of the
apparatus 100. The rail-mountable assembly 102 may be made of or
may include any suitable type of material (wood, steel, plastic,
etc.).
[0073] FIG. 3o depicts a side view of a rail-facing side 135 of the
rail-mountable assembly 102. The rail-mountable assembly 102
defines fastening holes 146 configured to be aligned with the
fastening holes 117 of the second mounting bracket 116 (depicted in
FIG. 3e) or the fastening holes 123 of the first mounting bracket
114 (depicted in FIG. 3e), depending on which of the first mounting
bracket 114 or the second mounting bracket 116 is to be mounted to
the rail-mountable assembly 102 (depicted in FIG. 3o). It will be
appreciated that mounting hardware (such as bolts, washers, nuts,
lock washers, and any equivalent, etc.) to be used with the
fastening holes 146 are not depicted in order to improve the view
of the rail-mountable assembly 102. It is understood that the
mounting hardware is configured to fixedly connect the interlocking
bracket assembly 112 to the rail-mountable assembly 102 via the
fastening holes 146 (as would be understood by persons skilled in
the art).
[0074] FIG. 3l depicts a side view of an embodiment in which the
rail-mountable assembly 102 includes a mounting clip 139 defining a
hole 141. The hole 141 is dimensioned to receive the carriage bolt
145 of FIG. 3n.
[0075] FIG. 3m depicts a side view of an embodiment in which the
rail-mountable assembly 102 includes a coupling nut 143 configured
to connect the carriage bolt 145 of FIG. 3n with the mounting clip
139 of FIG. 3l. The coupling nut 143 includes a hole or passage
defining threads therein.
[0076] FIG. 3n depicts a side view of an embodiment in which the
rail-mountable assembly 102 includes a carriage bolt 145. The
carriage bolt 145 includes shaft portion defining threads
configured to mate with the threads provided by the coupling nut
143. The carriage bolt 145 also includes a flared head portion
extending from the shaft portion. A hex portion 151 extends from a
head portion (rounded head portion) of the carriage bolt 145. It
will be appreciated that the operation of the hex portion 151 is
described in connection with the description of FIG. 4c.
[0077] FIG. 3o depicts a side view of an embodiment in which the
mounting clip 139, the coupling nut 143 and the carriage bolt 145,
in combination, are configured to fixedly connect the
rail-mountable assembly 102 of FIG. 3k to the railings 902 of FIG.
1. The mounting clip 139 may be coated with a rubber compound in
order to avoid inadvertent or unwanted marring of the railings 902.
The carriage bolt 145 passes through the slot 137 of the
rail-mountable assembly 102. The flared head portion of the
carriage bolt 145 abuts the table-facing side 133 of the
rail-mountable assembly 102. The shaft portion of the carriage bolt
145 extends through the slot 137. The mounting clip 139 is
positioned on a selected length of the railings 902. The mounting
clip 139 is configured to span across, and abuts with, at least two
adjacently located instances of the railings 902. The shaft portion
of the carriage bolt 145 extends through the hole 141 of the
mounting clip 139. The coupling nut 143 is threadably connected to
the shaft portion of the carriage bolt 145. The coupling nut 143 is
turned in such a way that a clamping force is imparted to the
mounting clip 139, and the railings 902 are forcibly clamped or
sandwiched between the mounting clip 139 and the rail-mountable
assembly 102. In this manner, the rail-mountable assembly 102 is
configured to be fixedly connected to a selected length of the
railings 902 of the handrail system 900. The slot 137 is elongated
and is configured to permit accommodation of different types and
sizes of the railings 902.
[0078] FIGS. 4a to 4g depict views of embodiments of the apparatus
100 of FIGS. 2a to 2c.
[0079] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b (depicting top views), there is
depicted an embodiment of the apparatus 100 for the handrail system
900 (depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2) having the railings 902. The
apparatus 100 includes (and is not limited to) a combination of: a
rail-mountable assembly 102; a table assembly 104; a sub-mount
assembly 110; a folding assembly 108; and an interlocking bracket
assembly 112.
[0080] The rail-mountable assembly 102 is configured to be fixedly
connected to a selected length of the railings 902 of the handrail
system 900.
[0081] The table assembly 104 has a table surface 106.
[0082] The folding assembly 108 is configured to be fixedly
connected to the table assembly 104. The folding assembly 108 is
also configured to be fixedly connected to the sub-mount assembly
110. The folding assembly 108 is also configured to permit
selective foldable movement of the folding assembly 108 (and of the
table assembly 104) between a table-deployment position (as
depicted in FIGS. 4a and 4e) and a table-storage position (as
depicted in FIGS. 4b, 4d and 4f). It will be appreciated that
selective foldable movement of the table assembly 104 may be
accomplished in response to the folding assembly 108 receiving an
application of a force to do just so. In the table-storage
position, the table assembly 104 is moved (such as, folded) towards
the sub-mount assembly 110 in such a way that space underneath the
table assembly 104 is reduced, at least in part (relative to the
table-deployment position). In the table-deployment position, the
table assembly 104 is moved (such as, folded) away from the
sub-mount assembly 110 in such a way that space underneath the
table assembly 104 is increased, at least in part (relative to the
table-storage position).
[0083] The interlocking bracket assembly 112 includes a combination
of: a first mounting bracket 114 and a second mounting bracket 116.
The first mounting bracket 114 is configured to be fixedly
connected to (and project from) the rail-mountable assembly 102.
The second mounting bracket 116 is configured to be fixedly
connected to (and project from) the sub-mount assembly 110. The
first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket 116 are
configured to be selectively slide engageable with each other. The
first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket 116 are
configured to transfer weight from the table assembly 104, the
folding assembly 108 and the sub-mount assembly 110 toward the
rail-mountable assembly 102 and the railings 902 of the handrail
system 900. The transfer of the weight is done in such a way that
the table assembly 104 remains operatively supported at the
table-storage position and at the table-deployment position.
[0084] The mounting hardware 147 is configured to fixedly attach
the interlocking bracket assembly 112 to the rail-mountable
assembly 102. The mounting hardware 147 (such as a bolt and nut,
etc.) is configured to fixedly attach the interlocking bracket
assembly 112 to the sub-mount assembly 110. For instance, the
mounting hardware 147 may be a 0.25 inch bolt with corresponding
nuts (or any equivalent mounting hardware). It will be appreciated
that there are options for fixedly attaching the interlocking
bracket assembly 112. In accordance with the option as depicted in
FIGS. 4a and 4b, the mounting hardware 147 is configured to fixedly
attach the second mounting bracket 116 (of the interlocking bracket
assembly 112) to the rail-mountable assembly 102, and the mounting
hardware 147 is configured to fixedly attach the first mounting
bracket 114 (of the interlocking bracket assembly 112) to the
sub-mount assembly 110. Of course, in accordance with another
option (not depicted but easy to understand nevertheless), the
mounting hardware 147 is configured to fixedly attach the first
mounting bracket 114 (of the interlocking bracket assembly 112) to
the rail-mountable assembly 102, and the mounting hardware 147 is
configured to fixedly attach the second mounting bracket 116 (of
the interlocking bracket assembly 112) to the sub-mount assembly
110 (if so desired).
[0085] In general terms, the first mounting bracket 114 and the
second mounting bracket 116 are configured to be selectively slide
engageable with each other. The first mounting bracket 114 slides
into the second mounting bracket 116 until the first mounting
bracket 114 abuts the stop portion 111 (depicted in FIG. 3e) of the
second mounting bracket 116 and thus stops further travel relative
to the second mounting bracket 116; in this way, the first mounting
bracket 114 is slide-engaged with the second mounting bracket 116.
A lock mechanism (not depicted) may be mounted (if so desired) to
the interlocking bracket assembly 112, and may be configured to
lock the first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket
116 together once the first mounting bracket 114 and the second
mounting bracket 116 are slide-engaged with each other. For
instance, the lock mechanism may include a pin that may be engaged
in holes defined by the first mounting bracket 114 and the second
mounting bracket 116 once the first mounting bracket 114 and the
second mounting bracket 116 are aligned with each other in the
slide-engaged position (depicted in FIG. 4a).
[0086] Referring to both FIGS. 3e and 4a, the construction of the
apparatus 100 is as follows:
[0087] Operation (A) includes fixedly connecting the second
mounting bracket 116 to the rail-mountable assembly 102, by using
the mounting hardware 147 (and corresponding nut) through the
fastening holes 117 (depicted in FIG. 3e) defined by the second
mounting bracket 116 and the fastening holes 146 (depicted in FIG.
3o) defined by the rail-mountable assembly 102 (once the fastening
holes 117 and the fastening holes 146 are aligned together).
[0088] Operation (B) includes fixedly connecting the first mounting
bracket 114 to the sub-mount assembly 110, by using the mounting
hardware 147 (and corresponding nut) through the fastening holes
123 (depicted in FIG. 3e) defined by the first mounting bracket 114
and the fastening holes 128 (depicted in FIG. 3c) defined by the
sub-mount assembly 110 (once the fastening holes 123 and the
fastening holes 128 are aligned together).
[0089] Operation (C) includes fixedly attaching the folding
assembly 108 to the sub-mount assembly 110 and to the table
assembly 104 (using bolts or screws, etc.). As depicted, the first
folding portion 127 of the folding assembly 108 is fixedly
connected to the table assembly 104; the second folding portion 129
of the folding assembly 108 is fixedly connected to the sub-mount
assembly 110.
[0090] Operation (D) includes fixedly connecting the rail-mountable
assembly 102 to the railings 902. For instance, the rail-mountable
assembly 102 is positioned on a selected length of the railings 902
(on a side of the railings 902). The mounting clip 139 is
positioned on another side of the railings 902 opposite from the
rail-mountable assembly 102. The carriage bolt 145 is positioned to
pass through the slot 137 defined by (provided by) the
rail-mountable assembly 102 (so that the flared head of the
carriage bolt 145 abuts the side of the rail-mountable assembly
102). The carriage bolt 145 slides through the hole 141 defined by
the mounting clip 139. The coupling nut 143 is threadably connected
to the carriage bolt 145 and is tightened in such a way as to clamp
down the rail-mountable assembly 102 to the railings 902. The
mounting clip 139 is configured to span across at least two or more
adjacently positioned instances of the railings 902 (depending on
the requirements for supporting the weight of the apparatus 100 and
the weight to be received by the table assembly 104, etc.).
[0091] Operation (E) includes slidably engaging the first mounting
bracket 114 (that is fixedly attached to the sub-mount assembly
110) with the second mounting bracket 116 (that is fixedly attached
to the rail-mountable assembly 102).
[0092] Now the table assembly 104 may be selectively moved or
positioned between the deployed position as depicted in FIG. 4a and
the storage position depicted in FIG. 4b. It will be appreciated
that the table assembly 104 may be securely locked in the deployed
position in order to safely secure the weight to be received by the
table assembly 104 (from such items as plates, cutlery, etc.).
[0093] Referring to FIG. 4c (depicting a side view) along the line
A-A of FIG. 4b, there is depicted an embodiment of the carriage
bolt 145, the coupling nut 143 and the mounting clip 139 assembled
so that the rail-mountable assembly 102 is fixedly attached to the
railings 902. The carriage bolt 145 may include a rounded head
portion. The head portion of the carriage bolt 145 has a diameter
that is larger than the dimension or diameter of the slot 137. The
carriage bolt 145 includes a hex portion 151 extending from the
head portion. The hex portion 151 (also called a hexagonal-shaped
outer surface) is configured to be slidable along the slot 137
between the side walls of the rail-mountable assembly 102 (it will
be appreciate that in this manner and arrangement, the carriage
bolt 145 does not inadvertently turn or rotate in response to
tightening of the coupling nut 143 to the distal end of the
carriage bolt 145). It is understood that the hex portion 151 is
configured to lock in a position once the hex portion 151 is urged
to rotate along the rotation axis extending through the carriage
bolt 145. The cross sectional profile of the hex portion 151 is
depicted to the left side of FIG. 4c (for improved clarity
regarding the hex portion 151).
[0094] Referring to FIG. 4d (depicting a top view), there is
depicted an embodiment of the apparatus 100 in which the apparatus
100 is depicted in the storage position. In accordance with an
option, the slot 109 is defined by the sub-mount assembly 110 and
is positioned proximate to the head of the carriage bolt 145, and
the slot 109 is configured to accommodate the round head of the
carriage bolt 145 for the case where there may be a possible
interference between the head portion of the carriage bolt 145 and
the sub-mount assembly 110.
[0095] Referring to FIGS. 4e and 4f (depicting cross-sectional side
views through line B-B of FIG. 4f), there is depicted an embodiment
of the apparatus 100. FIG. 4e depicts the table-deployment position
of the table assembly 104, in which the table assembly 104 is moved
(such as, folded) away from the sub-mount assembly 110 in such a
way that space underneath the table assembly 104 is increased, at
least in part. In this way, items (such as plates, cutlery, etc.)
may be positioned on the table assembly 104, and the table assembly
104 may then receive weight from user items (when desired by the
user). FIG. 4f depicts the storage position of the table assembly
104, in which the table assembly 104 is moved (folded) towards the
sub-mount assembly 110 in such a way that space underneath the
table assembly 104 is reduced, at least in part. In this manner,
additional space may be provided next to the railings 902 (when
desired by the user). It will be appreciated that the vertical
height of the rail-mountable assembly 102 and the sub-mount
assembly 110 may be the same. The vertical height of the
interlocking bracket assembly 112 may vary to be the same as or
smaller than the rail-mountable assembly 102.
[0096] With reference to FIG. 4e, the slot 109 (also depicted in
FIG. 3b) is defined by the sub-mount assembly 110; the slot 109 is
configured to accommodate the flared head of the carriage bolt 145
once the carriage bolt 145 is positioned to clamp the
rail-mountable assembly 102 to the railings 902 (in accordance with
an option where the flared head of the carriage bolt 145 may be
relatively large).
[0097] Referring to FIG. 4g (depicting a cross-sectional side view
through line B-B of FIG. 4f), there is depicted an embodiment of
the apparatus 100. FIG. 4g shows the case where the first mounting
bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket 116 of the interlocking
bracket assembly 112 are slidably engaging with each other (along a
direction that is parallel to the railings 902) along a vertical
direction relative to the floor 910. It will be appreciated that
once the first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket
116 are operatively aligned with each other (as depicted in FIG.
4e), they may be locked together (if so desired).
[0098] Referring to FIG. 4h (depicting a cross-sectional side view
through line B-B of FIG. 4f), there is depicted an embodiment of
the apparatus 100. FIG. 4h shows the case where the first mounting
bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket 116 of the interlocking
bracket assembly 112 are separated from each other. For this case,
the table assembly 104 may be placed, for example, in an interior
of a house or a garage while the rail-mountable assembly 102 may
remain attached to the railing 902. As depicted in FIG. 4h, the
first mounting bracket 114 and the second mounting bracket 116 are
disengaged from each other.
[0099] This written description uses examples to disclose the
invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person
skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The patentable
scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include
other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other
examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they
have structural elements that do not differ from the literal
language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural
elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language
of the claims.
[0100] It may be appreciated that the assemblies and modules
described above may be connected with each other as may be required
to perform desired functions and tasks that are within the scope of
persons of skill in the art to make such combinations and
permutations without having to describe each and every one of them
in explicit terms. There is no particular assembly, or components,
that are superior to any of the equivalents available to the art.
There is no particular mode of practicing the disclosed subject
matter that is superior to others, so long as the functions may be
performed. It is believed that all the crucial aspects of the
disclosed subject matter have been provided in this document. It is
understood that the scope of the present invention is limited to
the scope provided by the independent claim(s), and it is also
understood that the scope of the present invention is not limited
to: (i) the dependent claims, (ii) the detailed description of the
non-limiting embodiments, (iii) the summary, (iv) the abstract,
and/or (v) the description provided outside of this document (that
is, outside of the instant application as filed, as prosecuted,
and/or as granted). It is understood, for the purposes of this
document, that the phrase "includes" is equivalent to the word
"comprising." It is noted that the foregoing has outlined the
non-limiting embodiments (examples). The description is made for
particular non-limiting embodiments (examples). It is understood
that the non-limiting embodiments are merely illustrative as
examples.
* * * * *