GB2353494A

GB2353494A - Multi-purpose work and leisure station

Info

Publication number: GB2353494A
Application number: GB0011512A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Michael Andrew Mckie
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1999-05-15
Filing date: 2000-05-13
Publication date: 2001-02-28
Also published as: GB9911219D0; GB0011512D0

Abstract

A multi-purpose work and/or leisure station comprises a frame 2, 3 and a surface 5 attached to the frame such that the frame is adaptable to have a first folded mode, in which it is portable by a single person, and a second deployed mode, in which it provides a stable structure. The surface is adaptable and/or replaceable to provide for a range of working and/or leisure activities. For instance, dovetail-rebate means (19, 20, fig 6) may be provided, with a plurality of modules incorporating particular features, eg a vice, a powered saw (see fig 10), a lathe, steps and an access platform (see fig 7), a table (see fig 8), or a seat. Clamping means may also be provided to allow the station to be used for specific purposes, eg bicycle maintenance (see fig 9). A storage container 6, with attachment means 9, may be fittable to the underside of the frame.

Description

2353494 MULTI-PlWOSE WORK ^ LEISURE STATION This invention relates to

apparatus which is adaptable to a wide variety of work and 1 or leisure activities.

There are many applications in which a craftsman 1 woman has to take the tools of his 1 her trade to a range of locations in order to undertake relatively short duration jobs. The WorkMate is a known portable apparatus but, to provide the necessary rigidity at waist height, it is necessarily massive and not amenable to regular portability, i.e. it is not automatically taken out to every job.

GE, Patent 2 279 332 B discloses a multi-purpose toolbox built into a foldable frame which pro,,des a workhorse at approximately knee height. This apparatus is readily portable by a single persen and combines a toolbox with a workhorse. Such apparatus is very useful for a craftsman following a single trade, or limited number of related trades, but does not provide for the wide range of applications which a competent DIY person might wish to undertake.

It is an object of this invention to provide adaptations to this workhorse principle so that the frame comprising the multi-purpose toolbox can be easily adapted to a wide range of working and leisure applications.

According to the invention, there is provided apparatus forn-fing a multipurpose work and 1 or leisure station comprising-- i) a robust frame; and ii) a surface attached to said fiwm; characterised in that the frame is adaptable to have a first folded mode in which it is portable by a single person and a second deployed mode in which it provides a stable structure and that the surface is adaptable and / or replaceable to provide for a wide range of working and / or leisure activities.

1 According to a first variation of the apparatus of the invention, means may be removably attached to the surface or replacement surface to accommodate a particular operation(s) or activity(ies).

According to a second variation of the apparatus of the invention, the means to replace the surface involves a simple mechanical arrangement providing a rigid connection to the frame.

According to a third variation of the apparatus of the invention, a storage container is provided.

According to a fourth variation of the apparatus of the invention, the storage container is removably attached to the frame.

According to a fifth variation of the apparatus of the invention, means are provided to raise the effective working height of the working surface of the apparatus.

In a preferred application of the invention, the robust frame consists of a pair of leg subframes hingeably attached to a fin-ther sub-frame so that the leg sub-frames are spaced a short distance apart. The surface is attached to the upper side of the further sub-frame.

The -leg sub-ftames are hingeable between a first folded mode in which they are essentially parallel to each other, allowing the apparatus to be readily portable, as a fairly compact uiit, by a single person, and a second deployed mode in which the free ends are spaced apart to give a stable 'workhos& structure. Strong, lighweight materials are used for the frame and surface, e.g. aluminiurn, plastics, wood, etc.

Ideally, a storage container is provided attached to the underside of the further sub-frame.

It is a key feature of the invention that this basic sturdy, portable, 'workhorse! structure is adaptable to a wide variety of applications, either by providing adaptations which can be fitted to the eNisting surface or by providing a replacement surface(s). In this case, the surface would be removably attachable to the further sub-frame. Various means of removable attachment are known, e.g. a dovetail arrangement, which will provide a rigid connection to the further sub-frame.

2 A range of appropriate options suitable for general. DIY and specific trades could include vice(s), clamps, circular saw, jig saw, router, lathe, pasting table, access steps, cycle maintenance, etc. In addition, the apparatus has leisure applications, e.g. as a picnic table, as a seat (preferably with legs astride the workhorse and could be used by, for example, a 5 fisherman),etc.

For a clearer understanding of the invention, and to show how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the following drawings in wtjch:- Figure 1 is a perspective view of the multi-purpose toolbox according to GB 2 279 332B in the deployed mode showing a storage container (Prior Art);

Figure 2 is a perspective view of the multi-purpose toolbox showing it in the folded, portable. mode (Prior Art);

Figure 3 is a perspective -view of the frame of the apparatus of the invention, provided with clamps at' tached to the working surface, and showing container 6 detached from frame 3; Figure 4 is a diagrammatic end view showing the apparatus of the invention in the folded, portable mode; Figure 5 is a diagrammatic end view showing the apparatus of the invention in the deployed mode; Figure 6 is a part sectional view of the dovetail arrangement for replacing, the surface; Figure 7 is a diagrammatic end view of the apparatus of the invention adapted as steps and an access platform; Figure 8 is a diagrammatic end view of the apparatus of the invention adapted as a table; Figure 9 is a perspective view of the apparatus of the invention adapted for bicycle maintenance.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the apparatus of the invention, adapted to provide a saw bench and / or router table, showing a tneans of raising the height of the working table;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the apparatus of the invention shovering the means of fitting the saw adaptation on its elevated fi-ame; and Figure 12 is a plan view of a replacement surface adapted for fitting a power saw.

3 In this description, the same reference numeral is i4sed for the same component, or different components fulfilling an identical function.

The apparatus is best described with reference to the Multi-Purpose Tool Box (GB 2 279 3 3 2B), developed previously by the Inventor. Fig. 1, shows that multi- purpose toolbox I consists of two leg frames 2 deployed at an angle either side of a storage container 6. Leg frames 2 are attached to a rectangular frame 3 to which working surface 5 is secured on the upper side and storage container 6 is releasably attached 9 (Fig. 3) to the underside. Leg ftames 2 are attached to frame 3 via pivotal means 4, provided with stops (not shown) which limit the outward rotational movement of leg frames 2, to the positions shown in Figs. I and 5. Working surface 5 is a standard surface for use as a workhorse. Holes are proNided in surface 5 into which pegs 16 may be fitted to facilitate working operations. Front side 7 of storage container 6 is openable and rests on the cross-member 26 of leg frame 2 to provide a handy working surface.

Fig. 2 shows the multi-purpose too] box I in its folded form with leg frames 2 swung in,wards alongside storage container 6. Removable handles 13 A and 14A are shoiAm to operate vices 13 and 14 respectively. A clipon carrying strap 15 is shown to facilitate portability. Pegs 16 are shown fittable into holes in working surface 5.

Fig. 3 shows the principle of the present invention in which the basic fi7ame 2, 3 is provided with a surface 5. Normally, this would be a working surface with the apparatus acting as a conventional workhorse. A storage container 6 is shown provided with attachment means 9 fittable to the underside of frame 3. Here, clamping means 17 are shown attached to surface 5 to hold a workpiece. As shown in Figs I and 3, container 6 may be adapted with draws 8 and storage spaces to suit particular applications of the apparatus of the invention.

Figs. 4 and 5 show end views of the apparatus of the invention in the folded and deployed modes respectively and indicating the location of pivots 4 for leg frames 2. Stops (not shown) are provided to limit the outward movement of leg frames 2. A gap is shown between storage container 6 and the underside of frame 3 to indicate that container 6 is removable. Similarly, a gap is shown between working surface 5 and the upper surface of frame 3 to indicate that surface 5 is removable.

4 One means by which separate surfaces 5 may removably attached to frame 3 is shown in Fig. 6. Here dovetail-principle male members 20 are provided on the underside of the woffing surface member 5. Incorporated into frame 3 and running its full length are channel members incorporating rebates 19, dimensioned and positioned to match members 20. Fig. 6 shows the end view of flame 3 with the entries to rebates 19 and a section through working surface 5 and members 20. In practice, rebates 19 would be blind and not extend quite to the end of frame 3 and the ends of male members 20 would be appropriately cut short, so that surface 5 would come to a stop when properly in position. A clip (not shown) would secure the other end of surface 5 to lock it firmly into position. The dovetail - rebate principle is suitable for this application as it secures surface 5 to frame 3 in all three Y, Y, and Z planes, as well as resisting roiational forces. It is important that workpieces secured to surface 5 ai e firmly held so that they call be properly worked Fig. 7 shows surface 5 replaced by member 21 of aSteps and Access Platforrd module.

Here. the step, consisting of risers 24 and tread 23, connected by hinges'4 2, are provided on the left and an extension 25 to the platfform 21 is provided on the right. Vertical struts 27fit between leg fl-ame cross member 26 to support extension 25. Hinges 22 allow the apparatus to fold away into a compact portable unit. Fig. 8 shows anotther adaptation z'n which surface 5 is replaced by a tzble top 28 with side leaves 29, supported by angled struts 30. Such a table could be used for pw.ikp,, wall paper, for picnics, on patios, for children's' activities, etc. When not in use, or for carrying, struts 30 are removed and leaves 29 folded down and legs 2are folded inwards. Container 6 (not shown) may be used for picnic utensils, etc. A strap (not shown) may be placed around leaves 29 to keep them closed and the whole carried via clip-on strap 15 (Fig. 2). To facilitate further transport of the work 1 leisure station, retractable wheels (not shown) could be provided, e.g. at the feet on the right hand leg of each frame (see Fig. 3), and a retractable handle (not shown) or strap provided in the left hand side of frame 3 (Fig. 3). This principle is used in many suitcases.

Fig. 9 shows the apparatus of the invention adapted to secure a bicycle frame 18 in an inverted attitude for maintenance purposes. Here, clamps 17, with dovetail elements 20 to match channels 19, specifically designed to hold the handle bars and saddle, are attached directly to frame 3, to facilitate access to wheels, brakes, gears, etc.

Fig. 10 shows the frame adapted as a saw bench and / or router table. Here, an extension structure 31 is fitted to frame 3 to raise the effective working height to a more convenient leveL e.g. waist height. As shown in Fig. 11, members 20 slide into rebate grooves 19. Side leaves 33 are provided. They fold down alongside structure 3 1 and are locked in position by securing means 34. Extension structure 31 is shown attached to frame 3 but it is equally possible to raise the effective working surface height by providing extension members to the lower ends of the legs frames 2.

In this case, the lower part of the saw wheel and drive motor are shown below the table 32 A variation of this saw bench option is to fit the table directly to frame 3. Fig. 12 shows a table 35 with a cut out 36 into which the saw module is fittable with the lower part of the wheel and motor passing through the gap between the channel members forming rebates 19. Cleary, storage container 6 would have to be removed to permit the fitting of the saw bench but a smaller storage contaii-ier, attachable to the underside of the saw bench casing, can be provided, if required.

The skilled man will appreciate t:fie wide range of add-on facilities which may be used with the basic workhorse frame, either affixed to the existing working surface 5 or as replacements for working surface 5. Typical examples not specifically taught are vices 13, 14, a lathe, a jigsaw, a band saw, etc.

The apparatus of the invention has a number of leisure applications, e.g. a picnic or occasional table, etc. One particular use may be as an occasional seat, possibly with a backrest hinged at one end and foldable flat onto the top of the seat (i.e. surface 5). A fisherman might use such a seat, sitting with his legs on either side of frame 3 and use container 6 for his bait, hooks, etc. Strap 15 would allow him. to carry the apparatus, containing all his accessories, except his rods. Because the apparatus is relatively light, it could be carried over stiles, etc. to the river or lake where he wished to fish.

IP554 6

Claims

What I claim is:

I A multi-purpose work and / or leisure station comprising:

i) a robust frame; and ii) a surface attached to said fi-ame, characterised in that the frame is adaptable to have a first folded mode in which it is portable by a single person and a second deployed mode in which it provides a stable structure and that the surface is adaptable and / or replaceable to provide for a wide range of working and / or leisure activities.
2. A multi-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in claim I wherein means are removably attached to the surface or replacement surface to accommodate a particular operation or activity.
3. A multi-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in claim 2 wherein the means to replace the surface involves a simple mechanical arrangement providing a rigid connection to the frame or a part of the frame.
4. A muld-purpose wor' k and / or leisure station as claimed in claim 3 wherein the simpie mechanical connection is a dovetail - rebate mearis.
5. A inulti-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in claim 4 wherein means to attached removably to the station to accommodate a particular operation or activity involves use of the dovetail - rebate means.
6. A multi-purpose workand / or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim wherein a storage container is provided.
7. A multi-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in claim 6 wherein the storage container is removably attached to the station.
8. A multi-purpose work and I or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the height of the working surface can be raised.

7
9. A multi-purpose work and 1 or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim adapted to incorporate a vice.
10. A multi-purpose work and 1 or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim 5 adapted to incorporate clamping means.
11. A multi-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim adapted to incorporate a power saw.
12. A multi-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim adapted to incorporate a lathe,
13. A inulti-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim adapted to incorporate access steps.

is
14. A multi-Purposc work and 1 or leisure station as claimed in any preceding caim adapted to incorporate a worUng platform.
15. A multi-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in any preceding cLim 20 adapted to incorporate a table.
16. A multi-purpose work and i or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim adapted to incorporate a scat.
17. A multi-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim adapted to incorporac means to maintain a bicycle.
18. A multi-purpose work and / or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim adapted to incorporate canying means. 30
19. A multi-purpose work and 1 or leisure station as claimed in any preceding claim adapted to incorporate wheels and a handle 1 strap to assist movement.

A multi-purpose work and 1 or leisure station as described in and by the above statement with reference to the accompanying drawings.

IPS54 9