CA2275453C - Tray delivery system - Google Patents
Tray delivery system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2275453C CA2275453C CA002275453A CA2275453A CA2275453C CA 2275453 C CA2275453 C CA 2275453C CA 002275453 A CA002275453 A CA 002275453A CA 2275453 A CA2275453 A CA 2275453A CA 2275453 C CA2275453 C CA 2275453C
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- tray
- delivery system
- support arm
- tray delivery
- guide rails
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B23/00—Bed-tables; Trays; Reading-racks; Book-rests, i.e. items used in combination with something else
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B83/00—Combinations comprising two or more pieces of furniture of different kinds
- A47B83/02—Tables combined with seats
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B88/00—Drawers for tables, cabinets or like furniture; Guides for drawers
- A47B88/40—Sliding drawers; Slides or guides therefor
- A47B88/453—Actuated drawers
- A47B88/46—Actuated drawers operated by mechanically-stored energy, e.g. by springs
- A47B88/467—Actuated drawers operated by mechanically-stored energy, e.g. by springs self-closing
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/62—Accessories for chairs
- A47C7/68—Arm-rest tables ; or back-rest tables
- A47C7/70—Arm-rest tables ; or back-rest tables of foldable type
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Special Chairs (AREA)
- Warehouses Or Storage Devices (AREA)
Abstract
The tray delivery system as described within this submission is an invention providing a simple process of specified motions resulting in a multifunctional tray surface while in the extended position of use; when not in use, this invention is concealed within a compact storage position in the associated furniture. The tray delivery system consists of a swivel hinge subsystem connecting the tray and arm components moveable within a dual guide rail subsystem securely fastened to the base of the associated furniture. The dual guide rail subsystem permits both simple extraction of the tray delivery system from the associated furniture's base, and depth accommodation based on individual preference and body size.
Description
Background of the Invention Preferred Embodiment This invention relates to the application of a foldable tray delivery system to a variety of furniture seating products involving the increase in comfort in performing certain activities while seated on such furniture through the implementation of an arm tray mechanism utilizing hinge and rotation devices to achieve a convenient and supportive tray surface area. Daily, occasional or infrequent activities requiring the use of a tray while in a seated position,'such as meal consumption, using a laptop, or as a writing surface are examples of typical usage of the tray delivery system.
Previous Patents The adaptation of tray surfaces to make fine furniture more functional is not a new pursuit within the furniture industry or by inventors in general. Many patents exist that detail varying attempts at combining a useful tray surface to various types of fine furniture including medical applications such as wheel chairs.
One such adaptation is detailed in Canadian Patent No. 530,110, which utilize clamping members to attach a tray to the arm of a chair, sofa or similar piece of furniture. The clamping members themselves can be adjusted varying the distance between the clamping members in order to accommodate various furniture arm designs. While such an assembly does provide a suitably stable surface for object placement, its usefulness is limited to that of an end table and therefore not functional for other uses such as meal consumption or use of laptops etc.
Previous Patents The adaptation of tray surfaces to make fine furniture more functional is not a new pursuit within the furniture industry or by inventors in general. Many patents exist that detail varying attempts at combining a useful tray surface to various types of fine furniture including medical applications such as wheel chairs.
One such adaptation is detailed in Canadian Patent No. 530,110, which utilize clamping members to attach a tray to the arm of a chair, sofa or similar piece of furniture. The clamping members themselves can be adjusted varying the distance between the clamping members in order to accommodate various furniture arm designs. While such an assembly does provide a suitably stable surface for object placement, its usefulness is limited to that of an end table and therefore not functional for other uses such as meal consumption or use of laptops etc.
-2-Another patent exhibiting similar characteristics is US Patent No. 5,649,737 which attaches a tray to the arm of a chair except positioned further forward.
Unlike the previous patent, this tray assembly design is specific for recreational and or folding seating, yet still serves similar functions for supporting items above the chair's arm and not over an individuals lap.
A large portion of patents involving the implementation of trays do not focus on fine furniture but rather areas involving transportation and related vehicles such as airplanes and trains. The functionality of tray surfaces within these environments is directed towards maximizing passenger comfort and personal utility while travelling.
For example, US Patent No. 4,668,010 involve tilting arms that support a tray for usage by airplane travelers. US Patent No. 4,372,604 details a rotating table mechanism that is concealed within the arm of a bench when not in use. This invention is primarily directed to the rail transportation industry. Its functionality is limited as it primarily serves as an armrest or partially extended table.
Features missing from these patents include the full concealment of the tray when not in use, and an inherent storage of the tray or table systems. Implementing concealment features creates difficulties to the design of a tray or table system. The objective of concealment lies in the quest to hide any visible signs of the tray or table device therefore leaving the design and style of the furniture untouched. One patent that partially displays concealment features is US Patent No. 4,834,449 that places the entire tray system within the arm cavity. Deployment of this tray system begins by pulling forward the arm facings along sliders to a point where a tray is flipped
Unlike the previous patent, this tray assembly design is specific for recreational and or folding seating, yet still serves similar functions for supporting items above the chair's arm and not over an individuals lap.
A large portion of patents involving the implementation of trays do not focus on fine furniture but rather areas involving transportation and related vehicles such as airplanes and trains. The functionality of tray surfaces within these environments is directed towards maximizing passenger comfort and personal utility while travelling.
For example, US Patent No. 4,668,010 involve tilting arms that support a tray for usage by airplane travelers. US Patent No. 4,372,604 details a rotating table mechanism that is concealed within the arm of a bench when not in use. This invention is primarily directed to the rail transportation industry. Its functionality is limited as it primarily serves as an armrest or partially extended table.
Features missing from these patents include the full concealment of the tray when not in use, and an inherent storage of the tray or table systems. Implementing concealment features creates difficulties to the design of a tray or table system. The objective of concealment lies in the quest to hide any visible signs of the tray or table device therefore leaving the design and style of the furniture untouched. One patent that partially displays concealment features is US Patent No. 4,834,449 that places the entire tray system within the arm cavity. Deployment of this tray system begins by pulling forward the arm facings along sliders to a point where a tray is flipped
-3-upwards, and then supported by a rotating crossbar. This design does not significantly detract from the aesthetics of the associated furniture while stored and provides a functional tray for an individual when deployed. However in the extended position, this system requires a greater furniture footprint, which in turn can impede traffic flow within the living space. This system requires the individual to be seated well forward in order to use the tray effectively. As a limiting factor, this system requires the tray to be positioned in front of the furniture as opposed to covering the seating area. Seating comfort and usefulness of the tray then becomes questionable.
A significant design enhancement would permit the individual to be seated fully within the furniture while still maintaining a comfortable distance to the tray surface.
Such a design improvement can be found within US Patent No. 5,050,929 that conceals the tray system within the arm of a sofa or chair. However, in this design the tray is pulled upward out of the arm and then folded over the individual's leg. At this point the tray runs along a groove which permits adjustments for forward and backward positioning. Additional footprint space is not required and allows an individual to sit fully within the seating area. Somewhat limiting, this system restricts placement within certain arm styles.
After careful analysis of previously patented designs, features such as concealment and adjustable tray depth were identified as key features that consumers would be attracted towards. The most common theme depicted in all tray delivery devices is in their utilization of the associated furniture's arm as the primary agent of support. The
A significant design enhancement would permit the individual to be seated fully within the furniture while still maintaining a comfortable distance to the tray surface.
Such a design improvement can be found within US Patent No. 5,050,929 that conceals the tray system within the arm of a sofa or chair. However, in this design the tray is pulled upward out of the arm and then folded over the individual's leg. At this point the tray runs along a groove which permits adjustments for forward and backward positioning. Additional footprint space is not required and allows an individual to sit fully within the seating area. Somewhat limiting, this system restricts placement within certain arm styles.
After careful analysis of previously patented designs, features such as concealment and adjustable tray depth were identified as key features that consumers would be attracted towards. The most common theme depicted in all tray delivery devices is in their utilization of the associated furniture's arm as the primary agent of support. The
-4-efforts presented in this submission have resulted in a new design direction moving away from these noted restrictions.
Discussion Improvements On Previous Designs I Patents The furniture industry has provided many attempts towards making furniture more functional. The focus presented in this submission has been on the development of a concealed tray delivery system for various pieces of fine furniture. As previously noted, a key theme has been on placing a tray system on, or within, the associated furniture's arm. This always involves modification to the arm's structure, design and or styling. As well, certain furniture styles would make adapting the particular tray system difficult if not impossible to achieve.
Although furniture construction may present arms of different modalities, common to all, is an underlying base composition. The frame base is a necessary component underlying fine furniture seating, and as such, a tray system designed within this base could be adapted to all such furniture pieces. Placement within this area also alleviates the need for modification to highly visible areas such as arms, as the tray system is concealed underneath the seating cushions. Placement of this tray system can be such that comfortable seating is possible even when this tray system is in the concealed storage position, beneath the seat cushions, while maintaining ease of reach and opening.
Discussion Improvements On Previous Designs I Patents The furniture industry has provided many attempts towards making furniture more functional. The focus presented in this submission has been on the development of a concealed tray delivery system for various pieces of fine furniture. As previously noted, a key theme has been on placing a tray system on, or within, the associated furniture's arm. This always involves modification to the arm's structure, design and or styling. As well, certain furniture styles would make adapting the particular tray system difficult if not impossible to achieve.
Although furniture construction may present arms of different modalities, common to all, is an underlying base composition. The frame base is a necessary component underlying fine furniture seating, and as such, a tray system designed within this base could be adapted to all such furniture pieces. Placement within this area also alleviates the need for modification to highly visible areas such as arms, as the tray system is concealed underneath the seating cushions. Placement of this tray system can be such that comfortable seating is possible even when this tray system is in the concealed storage position, beneath the seat cushions, while maintaining ease of reach and opening.
-5-Moreover, a number of patents do not take into consideration the need for personal adjustments within the tray system, such as re-positioning of the tray in order to accommodate various seating conditions and varying body sizes.
Summary of the Invention This invention involves a tray delivery system that utilizes folding and rotation mechanisms to create a fully functional multipurpose tray that can be concealed within the associated furniture thereby removing it completely from view. The tray delivery system also features depth adjustments allowing custom positioning of the tray by the individual. Deployment and storage of the tray delivery system operate under simple to follow steps requiring minimal time to complete. Strength and stability are ensured through a solid foundation, well placed support mechanisms and reinforced rotation areas. Maximum load capacities well exceed normal use operation levels.
Summary of the Invention This invention involves a tray delivery system that utilizes folding and rotation mechanisms to create a fully functional multipurpose tray that can be concealed within the associated furniture thereby removing it completely from view. The tray delivery system also features depth adjustments allowing custom positioning of the tray by the individual. Deployment and storage of the tray delivery system operate under simple to follow steps requiring minimal time to complete. Strength and stability are ensured through a solid foundation, well placed support mechanisms and reinforced rotation areas. Maximum load capacities well exceed normal use operation levels.
-6-Brief Overview of Drawincts The following drawings graphically represents specifications as listed within this submission and employ numerical references to all presented components whenever possible.
Figure 1 - presents a three-quarter face on perspective of a typical embodiment of the tray delivery system in an associated style of furniture with the tray delivery system fully extended in the open position.
Figure 2 - is an enlarged view of the first step involved in storing the tray delivery system within a sofa. The right seating cushion and back pillow has been removed to clearly show the storage area within the base of the sofa. Arrows indicate direction of folding and rotation movements.
Figure 3 - is a continuation of the motion involved in storing the tray delivery system from the same perspective as in Figure 2. The arrow indicates the rotation of the tray into the base of the sofa.
Figure 4 - is an enlarged view of the tray delivery system storage area. Key focus is placed on the left cushion, more specifically on the right side, which has an angular cavity in order to reduce friction during storage and deployment of the tray delivery system. The right side seating cushion has not been shown yet also contains a similar cavity on the inside edge as shown in this figure.
Figure 5 - views the tray delivery system in the stored position from a front-on facing. Two key features are focused on within Figure 5. First, the angular cavities created in both seating cushions are shown from the front-on perspective and second guide rail attachments within the sofa's base are also shown.
Figure 6 - is an enlarged isolated view of the tray delivery system. Straight hole grooved guide rails are shown within Figure 6. The arrow indicates the range of motion that occurs when the support arm is rotated forward while opening the tray delivery system.
Figure 7 - is an enlarged isolated view of the tray delivery system with the support arm in the vertical position. Figure 7, also shows the results that occur when the arm is rotated forward. The clip and support block show contact being made with the guide rail engaging the support. Figure 7, also shows the direction of rotation as the support arm engages the guide rail.
Figure 8 - is an enlarged isolated view of the tray delivery system showing the notched hole groove guide rails as opposed to the straight hole grooved guide rails which are shown in Figure 6.
Figure 9 - is an enlarged view of the hinge rotation device, which secures the support arm to the tray.
Figure 10 - is an enlarged view of the hinge rotation from the opposite perspective shown in Figure 9.
Description of Drawings With reference to all figures presented within this submission, the tray delivery system has been designated by the reference number 8. As viewed in Figure 1, the tray delivery system 8 is presented in the open position and is placed in the typical location between two seating cushions 3a & 3b shown within a sofa 10. The sofa shown is an example of the associated furniture to which the tray delivery system 8 is capable of being installed. Finishes to this associated furniture can include, but are _g_ not limited to wood, fabric and or leather. This sofa 10 style also includes loose back pillows 1, legs 4, a left arm 2a, and right arm 2b which can be placed on a variety of types of flooring 6. In furniture featuring greater than two seat cushions 3, the tray delivery system 8 can be placed between any two adjacent cushions 3. When the tray delivery system 8 is placed within associated furniture of chair styling, or furniture consisting of a single seat cushion 3, the tray delivery system 8, is placed between the seat cushion 3a or 3b and one of the arms 2a or 2b, subject to the orientation of the tray delivery system. Orientation is denoted as either left-hand facing or right-hand facing. The tray delivery system 8 in Figure 1, including all subsequent figures, depicts a left-hand facing orientation. Determining orientation of the tray delivery system 8 is subject to the direction and rotation of the tray 11. As shown in Figure 1 from the three-quarter face on perspective, the support arm 7 is located between two cushions 3a & 3b with the tray 11 folding left over the left seat cushion 3a.
If the tray delivery system 8 folds right, over the right seat cushion 3b, then this orientation is designated as right-hand facing.
Opening the tray delivery system 8 as shown in Figure 1 is accomplished through a series of steps involving support arm 7 and tray 11 rotation. The initial storage position consists of the tray delivery system 8 folded within the delivery system slot 14 contained within the sofa's deck 13 as shown in Figure 4. While seated, an individual reaches through the angular cavity area 12 of the seating cushions grasping the rear top edge of the tray 11. The tray delivery system 8 is then rotated forward as shown in Figure 6, until the support arm 7 makes contact with the sofa's front facing 5. The tray 11 continues forward rotation until completely vertical.
Completing this process, the seated individual folds the tray 11 downwards over the occupied seat. The tray delivery system 8 is now ready for standard use.
From the open position, the process of storing the tray delivery system 8 consists of following the steps of extraction in reverse as depicted in Figure 2. An individual in the seated position grabs the tray 11 and lifts the tray 11 upward until it is approximately perpendicular. At this point, the tray 11 is rotated towards the back of the sofa 20 and downward until making contact with the front facing 5. At this stage, the tray 11 is partially inserted into the delivery system slot 14 that was cut into the sofa's deck 13. In order to provide a clear view of the delivery system storage area 14, the right seat cushion 3b and right loose back pillow lb have been omitted from Figure 2 and Figure 3. A seated individual now grasps either the support arm 7 or the protruding portion of the tray 11, and begins to rotate the tray delivery system 8 towards the back of the sofa 10 until both the tray 11 and support arm 7 fit comfortably in the delivery system slot 14 located underneath the seat cushions 3.
Figure 3 shows this range of motion as the tray delivery system 8 rotates backwards into the delivery system slot 14.
In order to provide easy deployment and storage of the tray delivery system 8, modifications were made on both the left cushion 3a and right cushion 3b in the form of an angular cavity 12. Figure 4 provides an enlarged view of the left cushion 3a on a sofa 10 with the right cushion 3b removed. Figure 5 provides a front-on view of the two cushions 3a & 3b both on the sofa 10 which are portrayed transparent in order to reveal the space created with the angular cavities 12. The main benefit achieved through this configuration is that an individual's hand only reaches through a minimal amount of cushion 3a & 3b in order to grasp the tray 11, therefore making rotation motions easier to perform during opening and closing of the tray delivery system 8.
For furniture consisting of greater than two seat cushions 3, the two cushions 3 in which the tray delivery system 8 is placed between will contain the respective angular cavities 12. When a single seat cushion 3 exists, the angular cavity 12 is associated on the side of the seat cushion 3 that coincides with the location of the tray delivery system 8.
The smooth movement of the support arm 7 within the guide rail 21 a & 21 b is achieved through an inserted dowel 16 equipped with stabilizing doughnuts 37 within the guide rails straight hole grooves 26. The length of the straight hole groove 26, permits a wide range of possible positions for the tray delivery system 8. The support arm 7 maintains stability in any particular position through three components:
axm block support 23, main contact block 24, and an L-shaped clip 25 which is attached to the main contact block with two screws 18. As the tray delivery system 8 is extracted from the storage area 14, the support arm 7 with all attached components, rotates towards the front of the sofa 10. This motion is depicted in Figure 6.
Once the support arm 7 makes contact with the sofa's front facing 5, the dowel is moved backward in order to accommodate individual body size variations as shown in Figure 7. With selected depth chosen by the seated individual, the support arm 7 is rotated forward engaging the main contact block 24 with the left guide rail 21a.
Additional reinforcement is accomplished with the L-shaped clip's 25 contact with the outer side of the left guide rail 21 a.
Two separate guide rail systems were developed for implementation within the tray delivery system 8. The configuration shown in Figure 6 depicts a straight hole groove guide rail 21. The straight hole groove 26 permits the support arm 7 to be locked into place within the range of movement of dowel 16. The alternative guide rail system is similar to the straight hole groove guide rails 21 with the addition of notched teeth 34 along the top of the straight hole groove 26. These notched teeth 34, shown in figure 8 provide fixed set depth adjustment for the tray delivery system 8.
This alternative provides set positions for the tray delivery system 8.
Additional modifications to the tray delivery system 8 under this configuration include lowering the arm block support 23 and associated components (main contact block 24, L-shaped clip 25) on the support arm 7 in order to compensate for the notched teeth height 34.
Guide rails 21a & 21b are secured to the sofa 10 through a series of eight screws 35.
For each individual guide rail 21a & 21b, two screws 35 are used to secure each guide rail 21 to the front facing 5 of the sofa 10 and two screws 35 are used to secure to the rear facing 36 of the sofa 10. Placement and attachment of the guide rails 21a & 21b, to the sofa 10, is shown in Figure 5 with the tray delivery system 8 in the stored position. This method of attachment provides a secure foundation for the tray delivery system 8 and can be easily modified to accommodate various types, styles and sizes of furniture.
Tray rotation is achieved through a hinge rotation device 9 located near the top of the support arm 7, allowing for the required range of motion to rotate the tray 11 upwards and over a seated individuals lap. Figure 9 provides a clear view of the hinge rotation device 9. The lower flange 15b contains four holes. The largest hole is located near the center of the lower flange 15b which contains the hinge bolt 28 and Nut 27 that fastens the rotation device 9 to the support arm 7. The remaining three holes are used to fasten the lower flange 1 Sb to the rotation disc 19 using three screws 18.
The upper flange 15a has two support beams 17 attach to the tray 11 via eight screws 18. The support beams 17 fulfill two important roles. Firstly, these support beams 17 increase the attachment's strength between the upper flange 15a and the tray 11.
Secondly, when the tray is in the open position, the support beams 17 make contact with the top of the support arm 7 which has a reinforcement plate 29 typically made of metal and attached to the top surface of the support arm 7. The location of the reinforcement plate 29, and its contact with the support beams 17, is clearly shown in Figure 10. The combination of support beams 17 and reinforcement plate 29 increases the maximum load capacity for the tray delivery system 8 and minimizes tray 11 wobbling as weight is applied.
Figure 1 - presents a three-quarter face on perspective of a typical embodiment of the tray delivery system in an associated style of furniture with the tray delivery system fully extended in the open position.
Figure 2 - is an enlarged view of the first step involved in storing the tray delivery system within a sofa. The right seating cushion and back pillow has been removed to clearly show the storage area within the base of the sofa. Arrows indicate direction of folding and rotation movements.
Figure 3 - is a continuation of the motion involved in storing the tray delivery system from the same perspective as in Figure 2. The arrow indicates the rotation of the tray into the base of the sofa.
Figure 4 - is an enlarged view of the tray delivery system storage area. Key focus is placed on the left cushion, more specifically on the right side, which has an angular cavity in order to reduce friction during storage and deployment of the tray delivery system. The right side seating cushion has not been shown yet also contains a similar cavity on the inside edge as shown in this figure.
Figure 5 - views the tray delivery system in the stored position from a front-on facing. Two key features are focused on within Figure 5. First, the angular cavities created in both seating cushions are shown from the front-on perspective and second guide rail attachments within the sofa's base are also shown.
Figure 6 - is an enlarged isolated view of the tray delivery system. Straight hole grooved guide rails are shown within Figure 6. The arrow indicates the range of motion that occurs when the support arm is rotated forward while opening the tray delivery system.
Figure 7 - is an enlarged isolated view of the tray delivery system with the support arm in the vertical position. Figure 7, also shows the results that occur when the arm is rotated forward. The clip and support block show contact being made with the guide rail engaging the support. Figure 7, also shows the direction of rotation as the support arm engages the guide rail.
Figure 8 - is an enlarged isolated view of the tray delivery system showing the notched hole groove guide rails as opposed to the straight hole grooved guide rails which are shown in Figure 6.
Figure 9 - is an enlarged view of the hinge rotation device, which secures the support arm to the tray.
Figure 10 - is an enlarged view of the hinge rotation from the opposite perspective shown in Figure 9.
Description of Drawings With reference to all figures presented within this submission, the tray delivery system has been designated by the reference number 8. As viewed in Figure 1, the tray delivery system 8 is presented in the open position and is placed in the typical location between two seating cushions 3a & 3b shown within a sofa 10. The sofa shown is an example of the associated furniture to which the tray delivery system 8 is capable of being installed. Finishes to this associated furniture can include, but are _g_ not limited to wood, fabric and or leather. This sofa 10 style also includes loose back pillows 1, legs 4, a left arm 2a, and right arm 2b which can be placed on a variety of types of flooring 6. In furniture featuring greater than two seat cushions 3, the tray delivery system 8 can be placed between any two adjacent cushions 3. When the tray delivery system 8 is placed within associated furniture of chair styling, or furniture consisting of a single seat cushion 3, the tray delivery system 8, is placed between the seat cushion 3a or 3b and one of the arms 2a or 2b, subject to the orientation of the tray delivery system. Orientation is denoted as either left-hand facing or right-hand facing. The tray delivery system 8 in Figure 1, including all subsequent figures, depicts a left-hand facing orientation. Determining orientation of the tray delivery system 8 is subject to the direction and rotation of the tray 11. As shown in Figure 1 from the three-quarter face on perspective, the support arm 7 is located between two cushions 3a & 3b with the tray 11 folding left over the left seat cushion 3a.
If the tray delivery system 8 folds right, over the right seat cushion 3b, then this orientation is designated as right-hand facing.
Opening the tray delivery system 8 as shown in Figure 1 is accomplished through a series of steps involving support arm 7 and tray 11 rotation. The initial storage position consists of the tray delivery system 8 folded within the delivery system slot 14 contained within the sofa's deck 13 as shown in Figure 4. While seated, an individual reaches through the angular cavity area 12 of the seating cushions grasping the rear top edge of the tray 11. The tray delivery system 8 is then rotated forward as shown in Figure 6, until the support arm 7 makes contact with the sofa's front facing 5. The tray 11 continues forward rotation until completely vertical.
Completing this process, the seated individual folds the tray 11 downwards over the occupied seat. The tray delivery system 8 is now ready for standard use.
From the open position, the process of storing the tray delivery system 8 consists of following the steps of extraction in reverse as depicted in Figure 2. An individual in the seated position grabs the tray 11 and lifts the tray 11 upward until it is approximately perpendicular. At this point, the tray 11 is rotated towards the back of the sofa 20 and downward until making contact with the front facing 5. At this stage, the tray 11 is partially inserted into the delivery system slot 14 that was cut into the sofa's deck 13. In order to provide a clear view of the delivery system storage area 14, the right seat cushion 3b and right loose back pillow lb have been omitted from Figure 2 and Figure 3. A seated individual now grasps either the support arm 7 or the protruding portion of the tray 11, and begins to rotate the tray delivery system 8 towards the back of the sofa 10 until both the tray 11 and support arm 7 fit comfortably in the delivery system slot 14 located underneath the seat cushions 3.
Figure 3 shows this range of motion as the tray delivery system 8 rotates backwards into the delivery system slot 14.
In order to provide easy deployment and storage of the tray delivery system 8, modifications were made on both the left cushion 3a and right cushion 3b in the form of an angular cavity 12. Figure 4 provides an enlarged view of the left cushion 3a on a sofa 10 with the right cushion 3b removed. Figure 5 provides a front-on view of the two cushions 3a & 3b both on the sofa 10 which are portrayed transparent in order to reveal the space created with the angular cavities 12. The main benefit achieved through this configuration is that an individual's hand only reaches through a minimal amount of cushion 3a & 3b in order to grasp the tray 11, therefore making rotation motions easier to perform during opening and closing of the tray delivery system 8.
For furniture consisting of greater than two seat cushions 3, the two cushions 3 in which the tray delivery system 8 is placed between will contain the respective angular cavities 12. When a single seat cushion 3 exists, the angular cavity 12 is associated on the side of the seat cushion 3 that coincides with the location of the tray delivery system 8.
The smooth movement of the support arm 7 within the guide rail 21 a & 21 b is achieved through an inserted dowel 16 equipped with stabilizing doughnuts 37 within the guide rails straight hole grooves 26. The length of the straight hole groove 26, permits a wide range of possible positions for the tray delivery system 8. The support arm 7 maintains stability in any particular position through three components:
axm block support 23, main contact block 24, and an L-shaped clip 25 which is attached to the main contact block with two screws 18. As the tray delivery system 8 is extracted from the storage area 14, the support arm 7 with all attached components, rotates towards the front of the sofa 10. This motion is depicted in Figure 6.
Once the support arm 7 makes contact with the sofa's front facing 5, the dowel is moved backward in order to accommodate individual body size variations as shown in Figure 7. With selected depth chosen by the seated individual, the support arm 7 is rotated forward engaging the main contact block 24 with the left guide rail 21a.
Additional reinforcement is accomplished with the L-shaped clip's 25 contact with the outer side of the left guide rail 21 a.
Two separate guide rail systems were developed for implementation within the tray delivery system 8. The configuration shown in Figure 6 depicts a straight hole groove guide rail 21. The straight hole groove 26 permits the support arm 7 to be locked into place within the range of movement of dowel 16. The alternative guide rail system is similar to the straight hole groove guide rails 21 with the addition of notched teeth 34 along the top of the straight hole groove 26. These notched teeth 34, shown in figure 8 provide fixed set depth adjustment for the tray delivery system 8.
This alternative provides set positions for the tray delivery system 8.
Additional modifications to the tray delivery system 8 under this configuration include lowering the arm block support 23 and associated components (main contact block 24, L-shaped clip 25) on the support arm 7 in order to compensate for the notched teeth height 34.
Guide rails 21a & 21b are secured to the sofa 10 through a series of eight screws 35.
For each individual guide rail 21a & 21b, two screws 35 are used to secure each guide rail 21 to the front facing 5 of the sofa 10 and two screws 35 are used to secure to the rear facing 36 of the sofa 10. Placement and attachment of the guide rails 21a & 21b, to the sofa 10, is shown in Figure 5 with the tray delivery system 8 in the stored position. This method of attachment provides a secure foundation for the tray delivery system 8 and can be easily modified to accommodate various types, styles and sizes of furniture.
Tray rotation is achieved through a hinge rotation device 9 located near the top of the support arm 7, allowing for the required range of motion to rotate the tray 11 upwards and over a seated individuals lap. Figure 9 provides a clear view of the hinge rotation device 9. The lower flange 15b contains four holes. The largest hole is located near the center of the lower flange 15b which contains the hinge bolt 28 and Nut 27 that fastens the rotation device 9 to the support arm 7. The remaining three holes are used to fasten the lower flange 1 Sb to the rotation disc 19 using three screws 18.
The upper flange 15a has two support beams 17 attach to the tray 11 via eight screws 18. The support beams 17 fulfill two important roles. Firstly, these support beams 17 increase the attachment's strength between the upper flange 15a and the tray 11.
Secondly, when the tray is in the open position, the support beams 17 make contact with the top of the support arm 7 which has a reinforcement plate 29 typically made of metal and attached to the top surface of the support arm 7. The location of the reinforcement plate 29, and its contact with the support beams 17, is clearly shown in Figure 10. The combination of support beams 17 and reinforcement plate 29 increases the maximum load capacity for the tray delivery system 8 and minimizes tray 11 wobbling as weight is applied.
Claims (7)
1. A folding tray delivery system comprising of:
- A furniture assembly with frame containing typical support beams within the base, with sufficient space within said base for placement of tray delivery system of which position will depend upon location of contact between cushions or cushion and furniture assembly arm.
- A tray of useful size with a length no longer than the distance from the said frame base's front facing to the said frame's back seating supports, as well as containing inset grooves of equal proportions to the flat bars associated with the upper flange.
- A support arm with inset circular groove located at top edge of said support arm, also containing a straight angled surface on said support arm's top portion where said tray will be engaged, as well as rounded edges located at bottom of said support arm, and a hole located near bottom of said support arm equal to the diameter of the associated dowel.
- A pair of guide rails placed within said frame base with a distance between two guide rails minimally greater than the combined width of said arm and said tray, also said guide rails containing straight hole grooves located closest to the front edge of said frame base.
- Said dowel with diameter great enough to ensure significant strength for support and with a length equal to the combined width of both said guide rails, said support arm, said tray and doughnuts, placed and fastened within said hole located near bottom of said support arm.
- Said support arm with said dowel is inserted into both said guide rails and secured on both ends of said dowel by said doughnuts creating the tilting motion required for both opening and closing of the tray delivery system.
- A circular rotation piece with a depth and diameter equal to dimensions of said circular groove of said support arm in order to allow easy placement and rotation of said circular rotation piece within said circular groove on said support arm.
- A hinge consisting of a modified upper flange and a lower flange which are correspondingly attached to the following associated pieces:
- Said upper flange is modified through the attachment of two separate said flat bars on opposing sides of said upper flange where said modified upper flange is correspondingly attached to an associated location within said inset grooves on said tray.
- Said lower flange is attached to said circular rotation piece at an associated distance in order to permit flat deployment of said tray in the tray delivery system open position.
- With said circular rotation piece attached to said lower flange of said hinge, said circular rotation piece is placed within said inset circular groove to which a hole is created through all three said components;
specifically, said circular rotation piece, said hinge and said inset circular groove on said support arm.
- A nut and bolt is utilized for fastening all components; specifically, said hinge, said circular rotation piece and said inset circular groove to said support arm.
- An L-shaped clip is fastened to a semi circular blocker, once fastened both components said L-shaped clip and said semi circular blocker is attached to the front edge of said support arm at a location where the said straight angled surface located at the top of said support arm is perfectly level.
- A furniture assembly with frame containing typical support beams within the base, with sufficient space within said base for placement of tray delivery system of which position will depend upon location of contact between cushions or cushion and furniture assembly arm.
- A tray of useful size with a length no longer than the distance from the said frame base's front facing to the said frame's back seating supports, as well as containing inset grooves of equal proportions to the flat bars associated with the upper flange.
- A support arm with inset circular groove located at top edge of said support arm, also containing a straight angled surface on said support arm's top portion where said tray will be engaged, as well as rounded edges located at bottom of said support arm, and a hole located near bottom of said support arm equal to the diameter of the associated dowel.
- A pair of guide rails placed within said frame base with a distance between two guide rails minimally greater than the combined width of said arm and said tray, also said guide rails containing straight hole grooves located closest to the front edge of said frame base.
- Said dowel with diameter great enough to ensure significant strength for support and with a length equal to the combined width of both said guide rails, said support arm, said tray and doughnuts, placed and fastened within said hole located near bottom of said support arm.
- Said support arm with said dowel is inserted into both said guide rails and secured on both ends of said dowel by said doughnuts creating the tilting motion required for both opening and closing of the tray delivery system.
- A circular rotation piece with a depth and diameter equal to dimensions of said circular groove of said support arm in order to allow easy placement and rotation of said circular rotation piece within said circular groove on said support arm.
- A hinge consisting of a modified upper flange and a lower flange which are correspondingly attached to the following associated pieces:
- Said upper flange is modified through the attachment of two separate said flat bars on opposing sides of said upper flange where said modified upper flange is correspondingly attached to an associated location within said inset grooves on said tray.
- Said lower flange is attached to said circular rotation piece at an associated distance in order to permit flat deployment of said tray in the tray delivery system open position.
- With said circular rotation piece attached to said lower flange of said hinge, said circular rotation piece is placed within said inset circular groove to which a hole is created through all three said components;
specifically, said circular rotation piece, said hinge and said inset circular groove on said support arm.
- A nut and bolt is utilized for fastening all components; specifically, said hinge, said circular rotation piece and said inset circular groove to said support arm.
- An L-shaped clip is fastened to a semi circular blocker, once fastened both components said L-shaped clip and said semi circular blocker is attached to the front edge of said support arm at a location where the said straight angled surface located at the top of said support arm is perfectly level.
2. The tray delivery system as defined in claim 1 wherein:
- Said guide rails containing said straight hole grooves can be interchanged with guide rails containing notched hole grooves.
- Either said guide rails containing said straight hole grooves or said guide rails containing notched hole grooves will be referred to as guide rails.
- Said guide rails containing said straight hole grooves can be interchanged with guide rails containing notched hole grooves.
- Either said guide rails containing said straight hole grooves or said guide rails containing notched hole grooves will be referred to as guide rails.
3. The tray delivery system as defined in claim 2 wherein:
- The opening of the tray delivery system, from its closed folded storage position, is achieved through the tilting forward of said support arm and said tray until said semi circular blocker with said L-shaped clip makes contact with top of said guide rails contained within said frame base, at which point said tray continues forward rotation until reaching a position at which said tray's length is perpendicular to a level flooring, at which said tray begins rotation downwards over the left-hand facing seat until the bottom side of said tray makes contact with said straight angled surface of said arm which completes the full opening of the tray delivery system.
- While opening the tray delivery system said dowel which is attached to said support arm being capable of movement forward and backward within said guide rails limited by the length of either said straight hole grooves or said notched hole grooves, permitting multiple positioning of the tray delivery system.
- The opening of the tray delivery system, from its closed folded storage position, is achieved through the tilting forward of said support arm and said tray until said semi circular blocker with said L-shaped clip makes contact with top of said guide rails contained within said frame base, at which point said tray continues forward rotation until reaching a position at which said tray's length is perpendicular to a level flooring, at which said tray begins rotation downwards over the left-hand facing seat until the bottom side of said tray makes contact with said straight angled surface of said arm which completes the full opening of the tray delivery system.
- While opening the tray delivery system said dowel which is attached to said support arm being capable of movement forward and backward within said guide rails limited by the length of either said straight hole grooves or said notched hole grooves, permitting multiple positioning of the tray delivery system.
4. The tray delivery system as defined in claim 3 wherein:
- The storage of the tray delivery system begins by rotating said tray initially upwards, then immediately backwards until said tray is parallel with said support arm, at which point said support arm and said tray continue a rotation movement backward towards said frame base until reaching a level position with said guide rails thereby completing the storage of the tray delivery system.
- The storage of the tray delivery system begins by rotating said tray initially upwards, then immediately backwards until said tray is parallel with said support arm, at which point said support arm and said tray continue a rotation movement backward towards said frame base until reaching a level position with said guide rails thereby completing the storage of the tray delivery system.
5. The tray delivery system as defined in claim 2 wherein:
- Association of the tray delivery system is adaptable to all forms of sofas, loveseats, chairs, and other pieces of furniture that consists of a frame base or one or more seating backs and seating cushions.
- Association of the tray delivery system is adaptable to all forms of sofas, loveseats, chairs, and other pieces of furniture that consists of a frame base or one or more seating backs and seating cushions.
6. The tray delivery system as defined in claim 5 wherein:
- All said components are reversed in orientation from the tray delivery system in left-hand facing in order to allow the tilting motion of said tray over the right-hand facing seat.
- All said components are reversed in orientation from the tray delivery system in left-hand facing in order to allow the tilting motion of said tray over the right-hand facing seat.
7. The tray delivery system as defined in claim 6 wherein:
- Cushion(s) sized and styled for said frame contain angular cavities, located in conjunction with the associated position of tray delivery system within said frame base.
- Cushion(s) sized and styled for said frame contain angular cavities, located in conjunction with the associated position of tray delivery system within said frame base.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002275453A CA2275453C (en) | 1999-06-18 | 1999-06-18 | Tray delivery system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002275453A CA2275453C (en) | 1999-06-18 | 1999-06-18 | Tray delivery system |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2275453A1 CA2275453A1 (en) | 2000-10-23 |
| CA2275453C true CA2275453C (en) | 2001-07-31 |
Family
ID=4163652
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002275453A Expired - Fee Related CA2275453C (en) | 1999-06-18 | 1999-06-18 | Tray delivery system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2275453C (en) |
-
1999
- 1999-06-18 CA CA002275453A patent/CA2275453C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2275453A1 (en) | 2000-10-23 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |