MXPA05002937A

MXPA05002937A - Folding table and bench system.

Info

Publication number: MXPA05002937A
Application number: MXPA05002937A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Curtis Nye S
Original assignee: Lifetime Prod Inc
Priority date: 2003-08-12
Filing date: 2004-08-12
Publication date: 2005-05-27
Also published as: CA2481451A1; EP1679991A4; AU2004216669B2; AU2004216669A1; US20050052058A1; BRPI0410335A; WO2005016080A2; CN1791343A; WO2005016080A3; EP1679991A2; CN100502724C

Abstract

A table and bench system may include a table and one or more benches that may be selectively attached and detached to the table. Advantageously, this may allow the table and benches to be easily moved, transported and stores. In addition, the table and bench system may include a handle that may assist in moving, transporting or storing the table and benches. Preferably, when the benches are attached to the table, the benches top are generally aligned to facilitate stacking of the table and benches. In addition, when the benches are attached to the table, the legs of the table are preferably disposed generally adjacent to the legs of the benches. Further, the upper surfaces of the benches tops preferably face in an opposite direction than the upper surface of the table top because that may create generally aligned surfaces, which may facilitate stacking and shipping of the table and bench system.

Description

FOLDING TABLE AND BANK SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention is concerned generally with furniture and more particularly with tables and benches that can be folded for storage. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Various types of tables and chairs are well known. In particular, it is well known to use tables in the house, in the office, outdoors, in recreational facilities and in several other places. While tables and chairs are commonly designed in a particular environment, several types of tables and chairs can be frequently used in other environments, if desired. Tables and chairs that are designed to be used outdoors, for example, are often manufactured from materials that are designed to withstand inclement weather such as rain, snow, sleet or sleet, and the brightness of the sun. Thus, many tables and chairs that are designed to be used outdoors are constructed from materials such as wood, metal and concrete. The tables and chairs built from these materials are often robust, durable and last a long time. Disadvantageously, tables and chairs built from wood, metal or concrete are often very heavy and difficult to move. Thus, these types of tables and chairs are often not easily portable. In addition, tables and chairs constructed from these materials frequently require periodic maintenance and repair. For example, tables and chairs made of wood should be painted or stained periodically in order to protect the wood from damage. In addition, tables and chairs constructed from metal should be protected in such a way that they do not corrode, rust or otherwise deteriorate with the passage of time. It is well known to use chairs and tables in relation to a table to allow people to sit and eat or otherwise use the table. Banks can be more efficient for use than chairs because banks can allow numerous people to sit in a single bank. For example, a bank can be arranged along each side of a table and banks can allow multiple people to sit at the table. However, banks are often relatively unstable and can easily tilt. In addition, banks tend to be rather large, bulky and quite heavy. Thus, while an individual can easily transport a chair due to its relatively small size and light weight, an individual may have much greater difficulty in carrying a large, bulky and heavy bench. Thus, two or more people are frequently required to move banks. In addition, conventional banks may not be easily stored due to their large size and weight. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, there is a need for tables and banks that reduce or eliminate some or all of the disadvantages or problems described above. One aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table and one or more seating elements such as chairs and / or benches. Advantageously, the seat elements can be secured to the table, which can make it easier to transport, store and / or pack the table and seating elements. In addition, the seating elements can be selectively appended and separated from the table, which can 'allow the table and / or seating elements to be used in a wide range of environments and situations. Another aspect is a table that can include one or more legs that are movable between a more extended position and a folded position relative to the tabletop. Advantageously, when the legs are in the extended position, the table can be used to support various articles and / or for many different purposes. When the legs are in the folded position, the table can be easily transported and stored. Preferably, when the legs are in the folded position, the legs are placed near or adjacent to the tabletop. In particular, the legs are preferably positioned near or adjacent a bottom surface or below a portion of the table top. The legs can also be reparably connected to the tabletop, if desired. Yet another aspect is a table that can include one or more legs that are pivotally connected to the tabletop. Significantly, if the legs are pivotally connected to the tabletop, then the legs can be moved quickly and easily between an extended position and a folded position. Each of the legs can be connected independently to the tabletop, in such a way that the legs can be moved individually between the extended and folded positions. One or more of the legs can also be interconnected to allow the interconnected legs to be moved simultaneously between the extended and folded positions. An additional aspect is a seating element, such as a bench that can allow for example one or more people to sit. The seat element can include one or more legs that can be movable between an extended portion and a folded position. When the legs are in the extended position, the seat element can be used to support one or more persons and / or for many different purposes. When the legs are in the folded position, the bench can be easily transported and stored. Preferably, the legs are positioned near or adjacent a bottom surface or below a portion of the bench top when the legs are in the folded position. The legs can also be reparably connected to the bank's board if desired. Still an additional aspect in a seating element, such as a bench, that can allow one or more people to sit. The seat element may include one or more legs that are pivotally connected to the bench board. Significantly, if the legs are pivotally connected to the bench board, then the legs can be moved quickly and easily between an extended portion and a folded position. Each of the legs can be connected independently to the bench top, in such a way that the legs can be moved individually between the extended and folded positions. One or more of the legs can also be interconnected to allow the interconnected legs to be moved simultaneously between the extended and folded positions. Another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table and a pair of seating elements, such as benches, that are preferably sized and configured to be used in relation to the table. Advantageously, the seat elements can be connected to the table to allow the table and the seat elements to be coupled together. This can allow the table and seat elements to be carried more easily and transported as - a single unit. Preferably, the seat elements are selectively appended and separated from the table. Still another aspect is an apparatus or system which may include a table and a pair of seating elements, such as benches, which are preferably sized and configured to be used in combination with the table. Each of the table and seat elements can include legs that can be moved selectively between an extended portion and a folded position. Advantageously, the seat elements can be connected to the table to allow the table and the seat elements to be coupled together. Desirably, the seat elements are connected to the table when the legs of the table and the seat elements are in the folded position. This can allow the table and the seat elements to be carried and transported more easily as a single unit. Preferably, the seat elements are appended to and selectively separated from the table. Still another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one or more independently deployable seating elements, such as benches, in which they can be selectively appended and separated from the table. Banks can be selectively attached to the tabletop to allow for example that the table and benches are easily transported and stored. Banks can also be selectively separated from the tabletop to allow the table and banks to be used. Advantageously, the table and benches can be part of an integral system that can be easy to transport, use and store. Desirably, two banks are used in relation to the table to allow individuals to sit on both sides of the table and banks can be connected independently to the table to allow either one or the other or both banks to be separately annexed or separated. of the table. However, banks do not have to be connected independently to the table. An additional aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one or more seating elements such as benches. The table may include one or more reception formations that are sized and configured to receive all or a portion of the banks when the banks are attached to the table. For example, if the apparatus or system includes two banks, the table may include two receiver portions that are sized and configured to receive the banks. On the other hand, for example, the table could include a receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive both banks. The receiver portions may allow the banks to be stored integrally inside and / or attached to a portion of the table. Still a further aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches and banks may be stored inside or attached to the table. Advantageously, this may allow the table to be used as long as the banks are stored inside or attached to the table. On certain occasions, seats are not required when the table is used to serve, exhibit and the like. Thus, if desired, banks can be attached to the table as long as the table is used. Because banks can be attached to the table while the table is used, banks do not require storage space or create an inconvenience for the user. However, banks could be removed separately from the table and only the table portion of the system could be used, if desired. Another additional aspect or system that includes a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches that can be attached and selectively separated from the table. Sale, this creates a table with its own seat. In addition, because the banks are preferably separated from the table, this allows the banks to be used independently of the table. Thus, the table and banks can be used together as a group or the table and banks can be used separately. This can allow the table and / or be used in a wide variety of situations and environments. This may also increase the potential uses of the table and / or banks and may allow the table and / or banks to be used for a variety of different purposes. Another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches, which can be selectively appended and separated from the table. The table may include a frame that may be sized and configured to increase the strength and / or rigidity of the table. The frame can also be sized and configured to allow one or more benches to be selectively attached to the table and / or to facilitate the attachment of the legs to the table. The frame, for example, can include two side rails that are arranged along the sides of the table. Desirably, all or a portion of the banks may be disposed between the side beams of the frame when the benches are attached to the table. All a portion of the benches can also be arranged between the legs of the table and the frame when the benches are attached to the table. While the frame can be used to reinforce the table in such a way that it can support a large amount of weight or force can be applied to the table, the frame could also be used to facilitate the attachment of the legs to the table to the table. table and / or annexation of the benches to the table. Another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches, which can be selectively appended and separated from the table. Banks can include a frame that can be sized and configured to increase the strength and / or stiffness of the banks. For example, the frame can include two side beams that are arranged along the sides of the table and the legs of the bench can be pecked into the frame. When the legs of the bench are in the folded position, all or a portion of the legs of the bench can be disposed between the side rails of the frame, if desired. Still another aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches that can be attached and selectively separated from the table. The table and / or benches may include one or more components, such as posts, channels and / or slits that can be used to secure the benches to a table. For example, one or more posts may be attached to a tabletop and the posts may include one or more flanges that may be configured to attach their connections to a tabletop. In addition, one or more channels or slits can be formed in the banks of the bank and these channels can be sized and configured to couple their portions of the posts. The channels can be placed on or near the edge of the banks and the channels can help secure the benches to the table. A further aspect is an apparatus or system that may include a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches that can be selectively appended and separated from the table and one or more fasteners can be used to help secure the benches to a table. The fasteners, for example, may be attached to a tabletop and may be adapted to receive one or more portions of a bank. In addition, the fasteners can be foldable, flexible or deformable to allow the benches to be attached to the table. Another aspect is an apparatus or system that can include a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches that can be selectively adjoined and separated from the table and the table can include a cavity that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the frame of the table and / or benches. The cavity is preferably located in the lower portion of the table top and the cavity can be defined at least partially by a flange extending downwardly from the table top. The flange extending downwards is preferably arranged around the perimeter of the table top, but the flange may also be spaced inwardly from the perimeter of the table top. The lower portion of the flange is generally preferably disposed within the same plane and all or a portion of the table frame and / or benches may be disposed between the lower portion of the table top and the plane generally aligned with the lower portion of the table. flange. The cavity, however, could also consist of any sized depression, opening, etc., formed in the table top and the table frame or benches do not have to be disposed within the cavity. Additionally, the table top does not require either a flange or a cavity and for example, the benches could be attached directly to the table top by one or more fasteners, latches or bolts, collars and the like. Still a further aspect is an apparatus or system which may include a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches, which can be selectively appended and separated from the table. Desirably, when the banks are secured to the table, the tabletop and banks can be sized and configured to facilitate stacking, packing and / or storage of the table and benches. For example, the upper surface of the table top can be generally parallel to the upper surface of the banks when the banks are in the stored position. On the other hand, for example, the upper surface of the table top can in general be parallel to the lower surface of the banks and / or legs of the banks when the banks are in the stored position. Yet another aspect is an apparatus or system which may include a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches, which can be selectively appended and separated from the table and which can be carried and moved together as a unit. The apparatus and system may include a handle or handle to allow the table and benches to be moved and ported more easily. The handle can be attached to one side of the table and the handle can be attached to a portion of the table frame. The handle can also be pivotally attached to the table and / or the table frame for convenience and ease of use. The handle can also be constructed of flexible material such as cloth if desired. Still another aspect is an apparatus or system which may include a table with one or more seating elements, such as benches, which can be selectively appended and separated from the table and the table and / or benches may be relatively small and / or lightweight . This can facilitate the storage, movement and / or transportation of the device or system. The apparatus or system can also be dimensioned and configured in such a way that it does not absorb any unnecessary space. Another aspect is a table and / or benches that can be constructed from lightweight material, which can allow a single person to lift and move the table and / or benches easily. For example, the tabletop and benchtops can be constructed of lightweight materials such as plastics, but the tabletop and benchtops can be constructed from other materials with appropriate characteristics. Desirably, the table top and bench boards are constructed from blow molded plastic and the blow molded plastic bench and table top can be designed to create rigid, high strength structures that are capable of withstand repeated use and wear. Advantageously, the tabletop and blow molded plastic bench boards can be easily manufactured and shaped to the desired shapes and sizes. In addition, the tabletop and blow molded plastic bench boards can form structural components of the table and / or benches, which can minimize the number of components required to build the table or bench. If desired, a whole portion of the table top and / or bench top can be filled with materials such as expanded polymeric materials, in which they include expanded polystyrene, expanded urethane and the like. Advantageously, the table and / or one or more benches can be durable, lightweight, direct for manufacturing and strong. For example, if the tabletop and benchtops are constructed from blow-molded plastic, the tabletop and benchtops may include two opposite walls that are separated by a relatively small distance, which may increase the resistance and rigidity of the tabletop and benchtops. The tabletop and blow molded plastic bench boards may also include one or more depressions or weld points to further increase the strength of the tabletop and / or interconnect the spaced-apart walls. Significantly, the tabletop and blow molded plastic bench panels can be relatively rigid, weather resistant and temperature insensitive. Additionally, the tabletop and blow molded plastic bench boards may not corrode, mold, or otherwise deteriorate with the passage of time. In addition, blow molded plastic bench and tabletops can also be formed in various shapes, sizes, configurations and designs. The bench table and / or bench boards, however, can also be constructed using other methods or appropriate processes such as vacuum molding, injection molding, tumbling molding and the like and the table top and / or bench boards. they can be constructed using other appropriate materials. In addition, the table and one or more benches can be assembled quickly and easily, which can reduce manufacturing and labor costs. In addition, the table and one or more banks can be used in a wide variety of situations and uses. For example, the tabletop and / or benches can be used as a portable picnic table that can be used and stored easily. The tabletop and / or benches can also be used in connection with various outdoor activities, such as camping, observing sporting events and the like. In addition the table and / or benches can be used to support various items such as a television, computer, sewing machine, microwave oven, lamp, luggage and the like and the table and / or benches can be used so much that they are carried perform a wide variety of tasks such as reading, writing, studying, working, etc. Thus, the table, the bench or both can be used in a variety of different environments and can carry out many different tasks.

Another aspect is a table and bench system that can include banks that can be attached and selectively separated to the table to facilitate the movement and transportation of the system. The table and bank system may include a first bank with a bank board and one or more movable legs in relation to the bank board between a folded position and an extended position and a second bank with a bank board and one or more movable legs in relation to the bench board between a folded position and an extended position. The table and bench system can also include a table with a table top including a top, a bottom, a first side and a second side. A retainer assembly can be attached to the bottom of the tabletop and the retainer assembly can include a first receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bank, when the first bank is attached to the table and a second receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table. A first receiving element can also be attached to the bottom of the tabletop, the first receiving element includes a receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table. In addition, a second receiving element can be attached to the bottom of the tabletop, the second receiving element includes a receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bank, when the second bank is attached to the table. In addition, one or more legs may be movable relative to the tabletop between a folded position and an extended position. Advantageously, the retainer assembly and the first receiver element can allow the first bank to be selectively attached to the table and the retainer assembly and the second receiver element allow the second bank to be selectively attached to the table. Preferably, the first receiving portion of the retaining assembly receives a portion of one side of the first bank and the first receiving member receives a portion of an opposite side of the first bank, when the first bank is attached to the table and the second receiving portion of the table. The retainer assembly receives a portion of one side of the second bank and the second receiving member receives a portion of an opposite side of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table. In particular, the first receiving portion of the retaining assembly can receive a portion of the first side of the first bank and the first receiving member can receive the portion of the legs of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table and the second receiving portion of the retaining assembly may receive a portion of the first side of the second bank and the second receiving member may receive a portion of the legs of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table. The retainer assembly may include a first post and a second that are generally aligned along an axis of the tabletop and the posts may have I-shaped or T-shaped configurations in general with the first receiving portion that is arranged on one side of the posts and the second receiving portion which is disposed on another side of the posts. In addition, the first receiving element may include a fastener that is sized and configured to receive a portion of the first bank, when the first bank is attached to the table and the second receiving member may include a fastener that is sized and configured to receive a portion. of the second bank, when the second bank is attached to the table. The receiving elements or fasteners may receive a portion of the legs or end caps when the banks are attached to the table. Desirably, the upper part of the first bank is generally aligned with the upper part of the second bank when the first and second banks are attached to the table and the legs of the first bank and the legs of the second bank are arranged generally adjacent to the legs of the second bank. the table, when the first and second banks are attached to the table. Still another aspect is a table and bench system in which a bank can be selectively attached and separated to the table to facilitate the movement and transport of the system. The bench and table system may include a bench that includes a bench board and one or more movable legs relative to the bench deck between a folded position and an extended position, a table that includes a table top and one or more movable legs in relation to the tabletop between a folded position and an extended position, a retaining assembly attached to the tabletop, the retaining assembly includes a receiving portion that is dimensioned and configured to receive a portion of a first side of the Bank board, when the bank is attached to the table and receiver element attached to the tabletop, the receiving element includes a receiving position that is sized and configured to receive a portion of the bank's legs, when the bank is attached to the bank. table, wherein the retention assembly and the receiving element allow the bank to be selectively annexed and separated to the table. Still another aspect is a table and bench system in which banks can be selectively attached and separated to the table to facilitate the movement and transport of the system. The table and bank system may include a first bank that includes a bank board and one or more movable legs relative to the bank board between a folded position and an extended position and a second bank that includes a bank board and a bank. or more movable legs in relation to the bank board between a folded position and an extended position. The table and bench system may also include a table with a tabletop, one or more movable legs in relation to the tabletop between a folded position and an extended position, a first post attached to the tabletop, the first post includes a first receiving portion that is dimensioned and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bank, when the first bank is attached to the table, the first post includes a second receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least one portion of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table, a second post attached to the tabletop, including a first receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bank, when the first bank is attached to the table, the second post includes a receiving portion that is dimensioned and configured to receive at least a portion of the second A bank, when the second bank is attached to the table, a first fastener attached to the tabletop and which is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bank, when the first bank is attached to the table and a second - fastener attached to the tabletop and which is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table. A further aspect is a method for attaching a bench to a table, the bench includes a bench board and one or more movable legs relative to the bench deck between a folded position and an extended position. The table includes a tabletop, one or more movable legs relative to the tabletop, between a folded position and an extended position, a first retention assembly including a receiving portion, a second retention assembly including a portion receiver and a bra. The method may include inserting a first portion of the bank board to the receiving portion of the first retaining assembly and inserting a second portion of the bank board to the receiving portion of the second retaining assembly and inserting a portion of one or more legs of the bank to the bra to secure the bench to the table. These and other aspects, features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES The attached figures contain the preferred embodiments to further clarify the foregoing and other aspects, advantages and characteristics of the present invention. It will be appreciated that these figures illustrate only preferred embodiments of the invention and do not intend to limit their scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying figures in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a table and bench system, illustrating a table and two benches which are in the use or extended positions; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the table and bench system shown in Figure 1, illustrating the banks attached to the table and the system that is transported by a user; Figure 3 is a bottom view of a portion of the table and bench system shown in Figure 1, illustrating the table; Figure 4 is a bottom view of a portion of the table and bench system shown in Figure 1, illustrating the bench; Figure 5 is a top view of the bench shown in Figure 4; Figure 6A is an enlarged side view of a portion of the table and bench system shown in Figure 1, illustrating a post that can be used to secure one or more benches to the table; Figure 6B is an enlarged side view along the lines 6B-6B of a portion of the table and bench system shown in Figure 9, illustrating a bench connected to the table; Figure 7 is an enlarged side view along line 7-7 of a portion of the table and bench system shown in Figure 9, illustrating the legs of a bench that is connected to the table; Figure 8 is a perspective view of a portion of the table and bench system shown in Figure 1, illustrating a bench attached to the table and a bench that is attached to the table; Figure 9 is a bottom view of the system of the table and bench system shown in Figure 1, illustrating the banks attached to the table; Figure 10 is a side view of the table and bench system shown in Figure 1, illustrating the benches attached to the table; and Figure 11 is a side view of a portion of the table and bench system shown in Figure 1, illustrating a handle assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES As described in more detail below, they are generally concerned with a table and bank system. However, the principles of the present invention are not limited to a table and bench system. It will be appreciated, in light of the present application, that the table and bench system disclosed in this application can be used successfully with other types of furniture, seating elements and the like. Additionally, to assist in the description of the table and bench system, words such as top, bottom, front, right and left are used to describe the attached figures. However, it will be appreciated that the table and bench system could be published in a variety of desired positions in which various angles are included, sideways and even overhead. Following is a detailed description of table and bank. As shown in Figure 1 an exemplary embodiment of the table and bench system 2 includes a table 4 and one or more seating elements 6. The seating elements 6 are preferably benches, but other types of seating elements such as chairs and Tambouries could also be used in connection with the table and bank system 2.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the table and bank system 2 preferably includes two banks 6 and the banks can be sized and configured to allow two or more people to sit in one bank at a time. Desirably, this allows four or more people to sit simultaneously at table 4. It will be appreciated that banks 6 could also be larger or smaller and the size and configuration of the banks may depend on the size and configuration of the table 4. It will also be appreciated that the size and configuration of the banks 6 can determine the number of people who could sit on the banks or table 4. Each of the banks 6 preferably includes a bank board 10 and the bank boards preferably have a length that is generally equal to or less than the length of the tabletop 8. However, the boards 10 of the bench could have a length that is greater than the length of the table top 8. The boards of the bench 10 and the table top 8 can have a length that is designed to be used by two, four, six, eight or any other appropriate number of people at a time. The tabletop 8 preferably has at least twice as large as the boards of the bench 10 to help connect the bench to the table 4. The tabletops 10 and / or the tabletop 8 can also having a width and length that allows a frame, legs and other components to be securely connected to table 4 and / or banks 6. In one example, the tabletop 8 can have a length of approximately 1.2 meters (four feet) 1.8 meters (six feet) or 2.4 meters (eight feet) and a width of approximately sixty centimeters (24 inches) or seventy-six centimeters (30 inches) ). In this example, the corresponding bench boards 10 can have a length that is generally equal to or less than about 1.2 meters (4 feet), 1.8 meters (six feet) or 2.4 meters (eight feet), respectively, in such a way that the ends of the bench boards 10 do not extend beyond the ends of the table top 10. The boards of the bench 10 may also have a width that is generally equal to or less than about 30 (12 inches) or 38 centimeters ( 15 inches), respectively, which may be generally equal to or less than about half the width of the tabletop 8. This may allow for example that two banks be connected to the tabletop 8 in a side-by-side manner. In another example, the tabletop 8 can have a width of sixty-six centimeters (26 inches) and a length of approximately one hundred six centimeters (42 inches) and the boards of the bench 10 can have a width of approximately twenty-three centimeters (9 inches) and a length of approximately eighty-six centimeters (34 inches). It will be appreciated that the tabletop 8 and the benchtops 10 could have any other appropriate sizes, widths and lengths, depending on the proposed use of the benches 6 and / or the table 4. It will also be appreciated that the tabletop 8 and the boards of the bench 10 could be larger or smaller or have other appropriate configurations depending for example on the interplay between the table 4 and the benches 6. The table 4 and the benches 6 can include one or more legs that are movable between a extended or used position and a folded or storage position. Advantageously, it is described in detail below, when the table legs and the legs of the bench are in a folded position, some or all of the banks 6 may be attached to the table 4 (as shown in Figure 2). Significantly, when the banks 6 are attached to the table 4 and the table and legs of the bank are in the folded position they can allow the table and the banks to be moved and stored as a single unit. On the other hand, when the banks 6 are not attached to the table 4 and the legs of the table and the legs of the bench are in an extended position (as shown in figure 1), the table 4 and the bench 6 can be used for any appropriate purpose. Thus, for example, banks 6 can be used to allow one or more people to sit at table 4. Alternatively, table 4 and banks 6 can be used separately and independently, if desired. The tabletop 8 and the benchtops 10 are preferably constructed of plastic which is blow molded to the desired shape and configuration. Advantageously, the plastic table top 8 and blow molded plastic bank boards 10 can allow strong, durable and light tables and benches to be manufactured quickly and efficiently. The tabletop 8 and blow molded plastic bank boards 10 may also include one or more depressions or weld spots to further increase the strength of the tabletop and / or spaced apart walls interconnected. The depressions are preferably located in the lower or lower position of the tabletop portions 8 and the tabletops of the bench 10, but the depressions may be located in any suitable portions of the tabletop and / or benchtops. The depressions preferably include a distal end which is disposed near or in contact with an opposite surface and as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the depressions preferably cover at least a substantial portion of the bottom surface of the table top. and the boards of the bank 10. However, the tabletop 8 and the bench 10 boards could include any appropriate number of depressions in any desired pattern or configuration. Further details regarding the size, shape and configuration of depressions that may be appropriate in use in connection with a tabletop are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10 / 409,000 entitled "High-strength, Ligtweight Blow-molded. Plástic Structures ", which was filed on April 8, 2003 and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Of course, the depressions may have other appropriate shapes, sizes and configurations depending for example on the proposed use and / or design of the table 4 or banks 6. In addition, neither the tabletop 8 nor the bench 10 panels require any depression which are optional. It will be appreciated that other suitable materials and processes can be used to construct the tabletop 8 and tabletops of the bench 10. For example, the tabletop 8 and the tabletops of the bench 10 can also be constructed from wood, metal or any other appropriate material. In addition, the tabletop 8 and the benchtops 10 can be formed by any suitable manufacturing method or process such as injection molding, vacuum forming, tumbling molding, rotary molding and the like. It will also be appreciated that the tabletop 8 and the bench 10 boards are not required to be manufactured using the same methods, processes or similar materials. For example, the table top 8 could be constructed from blow molded plastic and the bench boards 10 could be formed by vacuum molded or injection molded plastic. Similarly, it will also be appreciated that it is not required that each of the boards of the bank 10 be manufactured using the same or similar processes. The table 4 can include one or more legs or pairs of legs that can be movable relative to the tabletop 8 of an extended position, in which the legs extend outwardly from the tabletop (as shown in the figure) 1) and a folded position in which the legs are placed near or adjacent to the tabletop (as shown in Figures 2 and 3). In particular, as best seen in Figure 3, the table 4 may include a first pair of table legs 12 and 14 and a second pair of table legs 16 and 18, which may be disposed near the opposite ends of the table. table top 8. Further, the first pair of legs 12 and 14 and the second pair of table legs 16 and 18 may be offset to allow the legs to be moved between the extended and folded positions. Of course, the table legs 12, 14, 16 and 18 can be arranged in any appropriate location or manner and the table can include any appropriate number of legs. As shown in Figure 3, the pair of legs can be connected by one or more braces, crossheads or the like. For example, the first pair of legs 12 and 14 can be connected by a first brace 20 (which can be located proximate a first end of the tabletop 8) and a second transverse spacer 22 (which can be disposed away from the first end). of the tabletop 8). Similarly, the second pair of legs 16 and 18 may be connected by a first transverse strut 24 (which may be located proximate a second end of the tabletop 8) and a second transverse strut 26 (which may be disposed away from the second end). of the tabletop 8). It will be appreciated that any suitable number and location of cross braces can be used to connect the hanging legs for example of the proposed use or design of the table 4. It will also be appreciated that the cross braces are optional and table 4 is not required to use no particular number or location of transverse braces. The lower surface or lower portion of table top 8 may include one or more slits or channels that are dimensioned or configured to receive one or more of the legs 12., 14, 16, 18 and / or transverse braces 20, 22, 24, 26 when the legs of the table are in a folded position. Advantageously, the slits may allow the legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18 to be brought into contact or folded against the lower surface or lower portion of the table top 8. This may also allow the legs of the table 12. , 14, 16, 18 are placed adjacent to or near the lower portion of the table top 8 when the legs are in the folded position. The slits can facilitate the stacking of the table 4 and / or annexation of the benches 6 to the table top 8. However, the slits are not required. The table 4 may include a frame and the frame is desirably connected to the lower surface or lower portion of the table top 8. The frame may include two side beams 28 and 30 which may consist of remote elements extending throughout the length of the table top 8 and the side beams may be arranged generally along the sides of the table top 8. The side beams 28 and 30 are preferably constructed of metal such as steel and the side beams preferably have a configuration in L-shaped overall. However, the side beams 28 and 30 could have any other appropriate sizes and configurations and the side beams could be constructed from other materials with appropriate characteristics. Advantageously, the side beams 28 and 30 can be sized and configured to increase the strength and / or stiffness of the table top 8 if desired and the legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18 can be pivotally attached to the side beams . However, the legs 12, 14, 16, 18 could be connected to any suitable portion of the tabletop 8 and the frame could have other appropriate sizes and configurations. As shown in Figure 3, the table 4 may include a recess or cavity in the lower portion of the table top 8 and the recess may be indicated on one or more sides by a flange. The flange preferably disposed around the outer perimeter of the table top 8, but the flange could be spaced inwardly from the edge of the table top. It will be understood that the recess does not have to be limited by the flange and the table top 8 could include more than one recess. Advantageously, all or a portion of the table frame can be generally disposed within the recess, which can in general conceal the frame from the view of a user of table 4. Thus, visual defects or other imperfections in the frame can be hidden from the user's view. In addition, because the frame is generally hidden from view, the frame does not have to be finished such as by painting. However, the table does not require a frame, a recess, a flange that extends downward or that the frame is disposed within the recess. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 3, one or both of the side beams 28 and 30 may include one or more displaced pressures, which may advantageously dispose the legs of the table 12 and 14 in a shifted relationship with respect to the feet of the legs. the table 16 and 18. For example, the side beam 30 can include a first portion 32 that can lead to a first curvilinear portion 34. The first curvilinear portion 34 can lead to a second curvilinear portion 36 that can lead to a second portion 38 Thus, as shown in Figure 3, the first portion 32 may be arranged offset with respect to the second portion 38. Thus, the second portion 38 may be disposed closer to a first edge of the table top 8 with the first portion 32 disposed furthest from the first edge of the table top. Similarly, the first portion 32 may be disposed closer to a second opposite edge of the tabletop 8 with the second portion 38 disposed farther from the second opposite edge of the tabletop. It will be appreciated that the first portion 32 may be disposed offset with respect to the second portion 38 in any other appropriate manner. As shown in the attached figures, the first portion 32 is preferably generally parallel to the second portion 38 but the first and second portions could be at any desired angles or configurations including generally straight. It will be appreciated that the side spar 38 does not require any displaced portion, which is optional. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the side spar 28 may have a similar configuration, if desired. As shown in Figure 3, the leg 14 of the table can be positioned proximate the second portion 38 of the side rail and the leg 18 can be positioned proximate the first portion 32 of the side rail. Thus, the legs 14 of the table and the legs 18 can be placed in a displaced position when the legs are in the folded position. Advantageously, the displaced position may allow the legs 14 and 18 to be placed near or adjacent to each other when the legs are in the folded position. The displaced position can also allow legs 14 and 18 to have a length that is approximately the length of tabletop 8. Of course, legs 14 and 18 could also be adjustable in height, if desired. In addition, the legs of table 14 and legs 18 could be located at other appropriate locations and used in connection with appropriate components. In addition, the legs 14 and 18 of the table do not require a displaced position, which is optional. As shown in the accompanying figures, the side rail 28 and the legs of the table 12 and 14 can have a configuration similar to the side rail 30 and the legs 14 and 18 of the table. The side rail 28 and the legs 12 and 16 of the table can also have other appropriate configurations and arrangements depending for example on the design and / or proposed use of the table 4. As shown in Fig. 3, the legs 12, 14, 16 and 18 of the table can be pivotally connected to the tabletop and / or the frame using one or more braces. For example, the transverse brace 20 can be pivotally connected to the tabletop 8 and / or the frame by braces 40 and 42 and the transverse brace 42 can be pivotally connected to the tabletop and / or to the frame by braces 44 and 46 That of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the legs 12, 14, 16, 18 of the table can be attached to the tabletop 8 or to the frame by other appropriate arrangements and arrangements. A slotted brace can be used to guide the legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18 between the extended and folded positions. The slotted brace can also be used to secure the legs of the table in the extended and / or folded positions. For example, some or all of the legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18 could be secured by (and guided by) a corresponding slotted brace, such as the slotted braces 48, 50, 52 and 54. Advantageously, the slotted brace It can be light, relatively easy to manufacture and easy to attach to the leg of the table. It will be understood that other types of braces and guides may be used to help move the table leg between an extended position and a folded position. In addition, other types of guide rails can be used to maintain a leg in an extended position, in a folded position or both. Of course, braces are not required to help move a leg in any particular way or secure a leg in any particular position. The legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18 and the transverse braces 20, 22, 24, 26 can be constructed from hollow metal tubes because the metal tubes are relatively strong and light. Desirably, the legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18 and the cross braces 20, 22, 24, 26 are constructed of steel, but other materials with appropriate characteristics can also be used to build the legs of the table 12, 14 , 16, 18 and / or the transverse braces 20, 22, 24, 26. Whereas the legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18 preferably have a generally oblong cross section and the transverse braces 20, 22, 24, 26 preferably have a generally circular cross section, it will be appreciated that the legs of the table and the cross braces could have any shapes and appropriate configurations depending for example on the type of material used to construct the legs or transverse braces, the proposed use or design of the table 4 or other appropriate factors. As shown in the accompanying figures, the banks 6 may include one or more legs and the legs are preferably movable between an extended position and a folded position relative to the boards of the bench 10. For example, as seen in Figure 4 , the bank 6 may include a first pair of legs of the bench 56 and 58 and a second pair of legs of the bench 60 and 62 that may be disposed near the opposite ends of the board of the bench 10. Of course, the legs of the bench 56 , 58, 60 and 62 may be arranged in any other appropriate location or manner. The bench 6 can include a frame and one or more legs of the bench 56, 58, 60, 62 can be attached to the frame, if desired. The frame may include side stringers 64 and 66 and the side stringers may be arranged along the sides of the bench board 10. The side stringers 64 and 66 are preferably constructed of metal and the side stringers extend along the length of the stringer. length of the bench board 10. However, the side stringers 64 and 66 could be constructed of other materials with appropriate characteristics and the side stringers can extend along only a portion of the board of bench 10. In addition, the frame does not it requires the use of side members 64 and 66 and the frame could have other configurations and appropriate arrangements. In effect, the banks 6 do not require either the side rails 64, 66 or a frame. In addition, insofar as the legs of the bench 56, 58, 60, 62 can be connected to the frame, the legs could be attached to any suitable portions of the bench 6. An optional brace can be used to secure one or more of the legs of the frame. bank 56, 58, 60, 62 in the extended and / or folded positions. As shown in Figure 4, the bench 6 may include a recess or cavity in the lower surface or lower portion of the bench deck 10. The recess may be limited in one or more sides of a flange extending downward from a portion or bottom surface of the bench board 10. The ridge is preferably disposed around the outer perimeter of the bench deck 10, but the ridge could be spaced inward from the edge of the table top. It will be understood that the recess does not have to be limited by the rim and the bank board 10 could include more than one recess. The frame of the bench is preferably generally disposed within the recess in the lower portion of the bench deck 10. Advantageously, if the bench frame is generally disposed within the recess, then the frame is generally hidden from view by a user. of the bank 6. Thus, the visual defects or other imperfections in the frame can be hidden from the view of the user. In addition, because the frame is hidden from view, the frame may not have to be finished such as by painting. When the legs of the bench 56, 58, 60, 62 are in the folded position, all or a portion of the legs may be disposed within the recess. Additionally, all or a portion of the legs may be disposed between the side beams 64, 66 of the bench frame when the bench legs 56, 58, 60, 62 are in the folded position. For example, as seen in Figure 4, when the bench legs 56, 58, 60, 62 are in the folded position, one end of the legs may be disposed generally in the recess and between the side stringers 64.66 of the frame and the other end of the legs may not be disposed in the recess or between the side rails of the frame. It will be appreciated that one or more legs of the bench 56, 58, 60, 62 may be disposed partially within, completely or out of the recess and / or partially arranged between, completely between or to the outside of the side stringers 64, 66 of the frame, depending for example of the proposed use of the bank 6.

As shown in Figure 4, the benches 6 can include a first pair of legs of the bench 56, 58 that are spaced apart from a second pair of legs of the bench 60, 62 and the first and second pairs of legs of the bench can be attached to the bank board 10. The first pair of legs of the bench 56, 58 and the second pair of legs of the bench 60, 62 can be interconnected by one or more cross braces or cross braces. For example, the legs of the bench 56, 58 may be interconnected by a cross brace 68 and the cross brace may be attached to the frame and / or the bench board 10. Similarly, the second pair of legs of the bench 60, 62 may be interconnected by a cross brace 70 and the cross brace can be attached to the frame and / or the bench board 10. It will be appreciated that the legs of the bench 56, 58, 60, 62 can be movable relative to the bank board 10 without use a cross brace or crosshead. It will also be appreciated that the legs of the bench 56, 58, 60, 62 may have other arrangements and appropriate designs, depending for example, in accordance with the design and configuration of the bench 6 and / or table 4. A pair of legs of the bench they can comprise a single support, which can be curved or at an angle. The legs of the bench 56, 58, 60, 62 can be connected to one or more support elements, such as a shoe. For example, the first leg of the bench 56, 58 can be connected to a shoe 72 and the second pair of legs of the bench 60, 62 can be connected to a shoe 74. One or more end caps or end caps can be connected to each leg and the end caps or tips can be sized and configured, for example, to prevent foreign objects from entering the shoes and / or creating a surface without slippage. For example, end caps 76 and 78 can be connected to opposite ends of shoe 72 and end caps 80, 82 can be connected to opposite ends of shoe 74. End caps 76, 78, 80 , 82 are preferably constructed of plastic and slidably attached to the ends of the shoe. However, the legs of the banks 56, 58, 60, 62 do not require the shoes. As shown in Figure 4, an exemplary embodiment of the bench 6 includes the first pair of legs of the bench 56, 58 connected near one end of the bank board 10 and the second pair of legs of the bench 60,. 62 connected near the opposite end of the bank board. The shoe 72 is connected to the end of the first for legs of the bench 56, 58 and the shoe 74 is connected to the end of the second pair of legs of the bench 60,62. In this embodiment, the ends of the shoes 72, 74 extend beyond the side beams 64, 66 of the frame and beyond the outer edges of the bench board 10. Thus, in this embodiment, when the legs 56, 58 , 60, 62 are in a folded position, the ends of the shoe 72, 74 and the end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 are not generally placed within the recess in the lower portion of the benches or arranged between the stringers side 64, 66 of the frame. In addition, the ends of the legs 72, 74 and end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 can extend at least partially beyond the flange and / or outer edges of the bench boards 10. Advantageously, when the legs 56, 58, 60, 62 are in the folded position, the shoes 72, 74 and the end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 can be placed in a contacting relationship with at least a portion of the side beams 64, 66 and / or a portion of the bottom surface or lower portions of the bank board 10. This can help to minimize the height of the bench 6 when the legs 56, 58, 60, 62 are in the folded position. The banks 6 may include one or more flanges extending downward from the boards of the bench 10. For example, the benches 6 may include flanges 84.86, which are positioned on or near an outer edge of the bank board 10, but the ridges could be spaced inwardly from the outer edge of the bank boards. The flanges 84, 86 may help to form part of the recess in the lower portion of the bench boards and the flanges preferably include a lower surface that is spaced from a lower surface 88 of the bench board 10. When the legs 72 and 74 were in a folded position, the shoes and / or the end caps can be brought into contact with a portion of the flanges 84, 86. It will be appreciated that the shoes 72 and 74 and end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 they could be partially at least arranged within one or more openings, depressions, slits, channels and the like which are formed in the bench panel 10 and / or the frame. This may allow the legs 72 and 74 and end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 to be placed adjacent a lower surface or a lower portion of the bench board 10. The legs of the bench 56, 58, 60, 62 and the Brake shoes 72 and 74 of the benches can be constructed of metal such as hollow steel tubes with generally circular sections. Advantageously, the tubular legs 56, 58, 60, 62 and the shoes 72, 74 can be relatively strong and light. The legs of the bench 56, 58, 60, 62 and the shoes 72, 74 may also have other suitable shapes constructed from other suitable materials with appropriate characteristics. The banks 6 are preferably selectively attached to the table 4 to allow the table and bench to be easily stored and transported. For example, as seen in Figure 2, the benches 6 are preferably attached to the lower portion of the table 4 and the lower portions of the benches are preferably disposed adjacent to the lower portion of the table top 8. However, It will be appreciated that the upper portions of the bench 6 may be disposed adjacent the lower portion of the table top 8, if desired. Desirably, the banks 6 are attached to the table 4, such that at least a portion of the banks touch or contact the table, so that the height of the table and bench system can be minimized. However, the banks 6 may also be spaced apart from the table 4 if desired. Further, when the banks 6 are attached to the table 4, the upper portions of the banks 6 are preferably generally aligned, such that a generally flat surface is created. The upper portions of the banks 6 can also be placed generally parallel to the upper portion of the table top 8. Advantageously, this configuration can help facilitate the stacking of the table and bench system and the packaging of the table and bench system. The banks 6 can also be attached to the table 4 such that all or a portion of the benches can be disposed within the recess in the lower portion of the table top 10 and / or beyond the plane formed by the lower portion of the table top 10. a flange that extends downwards. Banks 6 could also be attached to table 4, such that all or a portion of. the banks 6 are arranged outside any table recesses and / or beyond the plane formed by a lower portion of a flange extending downwards. Additionally, the banks 5 could also be attached to the table 4, in such a way that the banks 6 are arranged between the side beams of the bench frame and / or the legs of the table. Of course, the banks 6 could also be attached to the table 4, in such a way that a portion of the banks 6 is disposed outside the side beams of the frame of the benches and / or the legs of the table. The banks 6 can also be individually attached to the table 4 to allow individual banks to be selectively connected and disconnected from the table. Of course, the various components of the table and bench system may be placed in other arrangements and appropriate configurations. The benches 6 are preferably connected to the table 4 using one or more fasteners, latches or bolts or posts, which may be disposed towards the center of the lower portion of the board 8 or at any other appropriate site. For example, as seen in Figure 3, the table and bench system may include two posts 90 and 92 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As best seen in Figure 6A, the posts 90 and 92 may have a generally I-shaped section and each post may include one or more receiving portions that are sized and configured to facilitate the attachment of a bench 6 to the table 4. In particular, the posts 90 and 92 preferably have a height that allows a channel or slit formed in the tabletop 10 (such as channels 94, 96, 98 and 100 shown in Figure 5) to be coupled in a manner secure or to the direction with at least a portion of a receiving portion of the posts. The posts 90 and 92 are preferably constructed of a relatively strong and robust material such as certain plastics, metals or the like but other materials with appropriate characteristics can also be used. The posts 90 and 92 can be connected to the tabletop 8 using an insert fit, friction fit, interference fit or the like. In addition, the posts 90 and 92 can be connected to the table top 8 by one or more screws, but other types of fasteners, adhesives and the like can also be used to attach the posts 90 and 92 to the table top 8. The posts 90 and 92 are preferably generally aligned along a central axis of the table top 10 and towards the center of the table top 10, but the posts 90 and 92 could be connected to any appropriate portion of the table 4 depending for example of the size and configuration of banks 6 and table 4. Additionally, posts 90 and 92 could have other shapes and configurations depending for example on the size and shape of banks 6 and the proposed use of table 4. When banks 6 they are attached to the table 4, the banks can be connected adjacent or in contact with the side rails 28 and 30 of the frame. Flange of a desktop board 10; the legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18; the transverse braces 20, 22, 24 and 26 and / or other portions of the table 4. Thus, one or both of the banks 6, when they are attached to the table 4, can advantageously restrict the movement of one or more table legs and / or folded table legs. Thus, when one or both of the banks 6 are attached to the table 4, the table and bench system 2 can advantageously be transported with less concern that more than one of the table or bench legs can inadvertently be moved from a folded position. to an extended position. As shown in Figure 5, the bench panels may include channels or slits 94, 96, 98, 100 that are configured to engage or otherwise engage with at least a portion of the posts 90, 92. The boards of the The bank may include recessed portions 102, 104 that may be located on or near the sides of the bank board. The recessed portions 102, 104 may have a substantially flat surface or other suitable surface type. Of course, the recessed portions 102, 104 and / or channels 94, 96, 98, 100 may be formed at other appropriate sites or do not need to be formed at the same similar locations. In addition, bank boards do not require channels, recessed recesses. The channels or slits 94, 96, 98, 100 are preferably sized and configured to facilitate the attachment of the banks 6 to the table 4. In particular, the channels 94, 96, 98, 100 are preferably dimensioned and configured to be coupled or another way to mate with the posts 90, 92. For example, the channel 94 can be coupled with a first post portion and the channel 96 can be coupled with a portion of the second post to assist attaching one of the banks 6 to the table 4 Likewise, the channel 98 can be coupled with another portion of the first post and the channel 100 can be coupled with a portion of the second post to help secure the others from the benches to the table 4. The channels 94, 96, 98 , 100 may have other appropriate arrangements and configurations depending on examples of the size and location of the posts 90, 92. The posts 90, 92 preferably have the same general configuration and in particular, the posts have the same configuration l as shown in figure 6A. Thus, while the post will be described in detail below, post 92 preferably has the same general configuration. It will be appreciated that the posts 90, 92 may also have other appropriate configurations, depending for example on the size and design of the table 4 and / or the banks 6. As shown in Figure 6A, the post 90 includes a central portion with two outwardly extending flanges 106 and 108. The central portion and the outwardly extending flanges 106 and 108 are preferably arranged in a generally T-shaped configuration, but the post could have other appropriate configurations. The ends of the flanges 106, 108 may include a flange or shoulder 110, 112, respectively, and the flanges are preferably spaced apart from the central portion of the post 90. In particular, the post 90 may include an internal portion 114 disposed between flange 110 and the central portion of the post and an internal portion 116 disposed between the flange 112 and the central portion of the post. The flanges 110, 112 preferably extend along substantially the entire length of the flanges 110, 112, but the flanges may extend along only a portion of the length of the flanges. As shown in the accompanying figures, post 90 preferably has a generally symmetric configuration because as will be discovered below. This can allow a bank to be connected to each side of the pole. However, the post 90 does not have to be generally symmetrical if, for example, it does not propose that a bank be connected to each side of the post. The post 90 may include one or more outwardly extending elements which may for example facilitate the attachment of the post to the table 4 and / or increase the stability of the post. In particular, the post 90 preferably includes a first outwardly extending element 118 and a second outwardly extending member 120. A first receiving portion is preferably disposed between the first outwardly extending element 118 and the first flange 106 and a The second receiving portion is preferably disposed between the second outwardly extending element 118 and the second flange 108. As discussed in more detail below, a portion of the banks 8 may be disposed within the first and second receiving portions when the benches are attached to the table 4. The post 90 is preferably constructed from a relatively strong and robust material, such as plastic. The post 90 is also preferably constructed of a slightly resilient or flexible material that facilitates the insertion of a portion of the banks 6 into the first and second receiving portions. In addition, the post 90 is preferably constructed as an integral one-piece structure that is connected to the tabletop 8 by one or more fasteners and / or a friction fit, insertion or interference fit. It will be understood that the post 90 can also be constructed from multiple components and the post can be connected to the tabletop 8 in any appropriate manner. As shown in Figure 6B, the post 90 can help to connect the bank 6 to the table 4. In particular, a portion of the bench 6 can be disposed within the first second receiving portion of the post 90 to help connect the bank to the table 4. For example, the portion of the bench 6 includes a channel or slit 122 such as the channel 94, 96, 98 or 100 may be disposed within the second receiving portion of the post 90. Desirably, at least a portion of the flange 112 is positioned within the channel 122 to help securely connect the bench 6 to the table 4. A portion 124 of the bench board 10 may also be disposed within the second receiving portion of the post 90. Thus, Certain movement of the bench board 10 in relation to the table 4 may be restricted when a portion of the bench is disposed within the receiving portions of the post 90.

The banks 6 can also be connected to the table 4 using one or more fasteners or collars 126 and 128. For example, as seen in FIG. 3, the fasteners 126 and 128 are preferably positioned proximate the sides of the table top 8. , but the fasteners may be placed in other appropriate places. While the fasteners 126 and 128 are preferably attached to the tabletop 8 it will be appreciated that the fasteners can also be attached to the table frame or other appropriate portions of the table 4, depending on the size and configuration of the table or benches. Because the fasteners 126 and 128 preferably have the same general configuration, only the fastener 126 will be discussed in detail. It will be appreciated that the fasteners 126 and 128 do not have to have the same configuration and the fasteners could have other suitable shapes, sizes and configurations. As seen in Figure 7, an exemplary embodiment of fastener 126 includes an aggregate body portion and two outwardly extending portions. Arranged between the outwardly extending portions of the fastener 126 is an opening that is sized and configured to receive a portion of the bench 6. Preferably, that portion of the bench 6 can be selectively inserted and removed from the opening, to allow the The bench is selectively attached to the table 4. Thus, when the bench 6 is attached to the table 4, a portion of the bench 6 is inserted into the opening in the fastener 126. In greater detail the fastener 126 preferably includes an opening 130 disposed between a first receiving portion 132 and a second receiving portion 134 and the opening is preferably sized and configured to receive a portion of the bench 6, such as the shoe 72, 74 and white and / or end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 Desirably, the first and second receiving portions 132, 134 are constructed from a flexible or bendable material to allow shoes 72, 74 and / or extrusion lids. Eight 76, 78, 80, 82 are inserted into the opening 130 and then the first and second receiving portions return resiliently or resiliently to their original positions to secure the legs and / or end caps in a generally fixed position. The first and second flexible or bendable receiver portions 132, 134 may also be deformed to allow the shoe 72, 74 and / or end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 to be removed from the opening 130. Thus, the fastener 126 may be retaining a portion of the bench 6 in a generally fixed position by an adjustment by insertion, friction or interference. The fastener 126 may also have other appropriate configurations depending for example on the portion of the bench 6 that it is desired to retain in a generally fixed position and the shape of the bench. In addition, other suitable types of fasteners, braces and clamps can also be used to connect the bank 6 to the table 4. Thus, the posts 90, 92 and -brackets 126, 128 can be used to securely connect the banks 6 to Table 4, which allows the table and banks to be transported and stored as a single unit. Advantageously, because the table 4 and the banks 6 are preferably constructed of light material, an individual can be an act of transporting the table 6 and banks 6 together. Additionally, because the banks 6 are preferably deployable separately from the table 4, the table and benches can be left in a wide variety of circumstances and environments. For example, table 4 can be used by itself without banks 6, the table and banks can be used simultaneously and banks can be used without the table. Thus, table 4 and banks 6 can be easily transportable and highly versatile. In order to connect the benches 6 to the table 4, in such a way that the table and benches can be transported as a single unit, one or both of the benches 6 are positioned near the lower portion of the tabletop 8. one of the banks 6 is positioned in such a way that one or more of the channels 94, 96, 98, 100 are generally aligned with the receiving portions of the posts 90 and 92, as generally shown in Figure 8. The portions of the bench 6 that include the channels 94, 96, 98, 100 are then inserted. to the receiving portions of the posts 90, 92. Then, the bench 6 is moved in such a way that a portion of the bench is inserted into one of the openings 130 in the fasteners 126, 128. In particular, the bench 6 is moved from such that a portion of the shoes 72 and 74 of the bench and / or the end caps 76, 78, 80 and 82 are inserted into the opening 130 in the fastener 126, 128. Thus, the posts 90, 92 and the fasteners 126, 128 can be used to secure one of the banks 6 to the table 4. Similarly, the other bank 6 can be secured to the table 4. Thus, both of the banks 6 can be attached to the table as shown in the table. Figure 9. As shown in Figure 9, when the benches are attached to the table 4, the legs 12, 14, 16, 18 of the table are p referenced in the folded position by the banks. In particular, in order for the benches to be attached to the table 4, the legs 12, 14, 16, 18 of the table are preferably in the folded position. When the banks 6 are then attached to the table 4, the banks prevent preferably that the legs 12, 14, 16, 18 of the table move from the folded position to the extended position. Advantageously, one or both of the banks 6 can help to secure some or all of the legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18 in the folded position, when the benches are attached to the table top. This can help prevent legs 12, 14, 16, 18 from moving inadvertently from the folded position to the extended position. However, the banks 6 do not have to be used to secure the legs of the table 12, 14, 16, 18 in the folded position. In order to remove one or both of the banks 6 from the table 4 one of the benches can be moved, such that a portion of the bench is removed from the fastener 126, 128. In particular, the bench can be moved in such a way so that the shoes 72, 74 of the bench and / or end caps 76, 78, 80, 82 are removed from the opening 130 in the fastener 126, 128. As the shoe 72, 74 of the bench and / or lids from the end 76, 78, 80, 82 are removed from the opening 130 of the fastener 126, 128 can be bent or deformed, in such a way that the shoes and / or end caps are no longer arranged inside the opening. Then the bench 6 is moved in such a way that the posts 90, 92 no longer engage with the channels or slits formed in the bench 10 of the bench. This allows the bank 6 to move freely with respect to the table 4. Similarly, the other bank 6 can also be removed from the table 4. Once the banks 6 are removed from the table 4, the legs of the table and the legs of the bench can be pivoted to the extended or use positions to allow table 4 and benches 6 to be used.

As shown in Figure 10, when banks 6 are secured to table 4, table and bench system 2 is relatively compact, which may allow the system to be easily transported and moved. - Desirably, when the banks 6 are secured to the table 4 the upper surfaces of the banks 6 can be aligned in general the same plane. The banks 6 can also be attached to the table, such that the sides of the banks 6 are generally parallel to each other and, if desired, to the sides of the table. In addition, one or both of the ends of the banks 6 can be generally parallel to one of the table 4. In addition, the banks 6 can be attached to the table 4, in such a way that the banks are placed side by side. When the benches 6 are secured to the table 4, the upper surfaces of the benches 6 are preferably aligned in generally the same plane as the upper surface of the table. The upper surfaces of the benches 6 and the upper surface of the table 4 are preferably positioned in different directions. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the upper surfaces of the benches 6 are facing away from the person carrying the system 2 while the upper surface of the table 4 faces the person. Thus, as shown in Figure 10, when the benches 6 are attached to the table 4, the upper surface of the table and one or both of the upper surfaces of the benches may be advantageously configured to present generally parallel surfaces in general. flat to facilitate stacking, packing, storage or other appropriate purposes. Of course, the benches 6 can be attached to the table 4 in any other way and on the upper surfaces of the table top 8 and the boards of the bench 10 (or any other components of the table 4 and the banks 6) can be positioned in any other configuration or appropriate relative position. As shown in Figure 11, a handle assembly 136 can be used to facilitate the lifting and / or movement of the table and bench system 2. The handle assembly 136 may be attached to a portion of the tabletop 8 to assist a user in manipulating the table 4 and / or the benches 6. The handle assembly 136 may include a handle 138 and one or more bands, such as as the bands 140 and 142. The handle 138 can be constructed from a generally rigid material such as plastic and the bands 140 and 142 are preferably constructed of a flexible material such as plastic, cloth or the like. The bands 140 and 142 may have a cross-sectional shape that is substantially thinner in the longitudinal direction and substantially wider in the side-by-side direction. Advantageously, the handle 136 can be moved between a position of use and a retracted or storage position. The handle 138 may be positioned such that, in a retracted position, all or one position of the handle 138 may be disposed within a portion of the outer flange or flange of the tabletop 8. In the position of use, the handle 138 it preferably extends outwardly from the tabletop 8 to facilitate holding the handle. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that handle 138 and / or bands 140 and 142 can be constructed from any suitable materials, such as skin, plastic, metal, wood, etc. and the handle need not be constructed from of the same material or a similar material as the bands 140 and 142. In addition, the bands 140 and 142 need not be manufactured from it or similar materials with each other. In addition, handle assembly 136 could be attached to any suitable portion of table 4 or bench 6 and table and bench system 2 does not require handle 136. Although the present invention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments, others Obvious embodiments for those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the present invention. It is noted that, in relation to this date, the best method known to the patent applicant to practice said invention is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property:

1. A table and bank system in which the banks can be selectively annexed and separated to the table to facilitate the movement and transportation of the system, the table and bank system is characterized in that it comprises: a first bank comprising: a bank board which includes an upper part, a bottom, a first side and a second side; and one or more movable legs in relation to the bank board between a folded position and an extended position; a second bank comprising: a bank board including an upper part, a bottom, a first side and a second side; and one or more movable legs in relation to the bank board between a folded position and an extended position; and a table comprising: a tabletop including an upper part, a bottom, a first side and a second side; a retainer assembly attached to the bottom of the tabletop and the retainer assembly includes a first receiving portion that is dimensioned and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bench, when the first bench is attached to the table, the retention includes a second receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table; a first receiving element attached to the bottom of the tabletop, the first receiving element includes a receiving portion that is dimensioned and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table; a second receiver element appended to the bottom of the tabletop, the second receiver element includes a receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bank, when the second bank is attached to the table; and one or more movable legs in relation to the tabletop between a folded position and an extended position. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized in that the retaining assembly and the first receiving element allow the first bank to be selectively attached to the table and where the retaining assembly and the second receiving element allow that the second bank is selectively attached to the table. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first receiving portion of the holding assembly receives a portion of one side of the first bank and the first receiving element receives a portion of an opposite side of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table and wherein the second receiving portion of the holding assembly receives a portion of one side of the second bank and the second receiving element receives a portion of an opposite side of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the second bank. table. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first receiving portion of the retaining assembly receives a portion of the first side of the first bank and the first receiving member can receive a portion of the legs of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table and wherein the second receiving portion of the holding assembly receives a portion of the first side of the second bank and the second receiving element receives a portion of the legs of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the second bank. table. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized in that the retainer assembly includes a first post and a second post that are generally aligned along an axis of the table top. The table and bench system according to claim 5, characterized in that the first post and the second post have a generally I-shaped configuration with the first receiving portion that is disposed on one side of the posts and the second portion receiver that is arranged on other side of the posts. 7. The table and bench system according to claim 5, characterized in that the first post and the second post have a generally T-shaped configuration with the first receiving portion being disposed on one side of the posts and the second receiving portion being disposed on another side of the posts. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized in that one of the sides of the first bank is inserted to the first receiving portion of the retaining assembly when the first bank is attached to the table and where one of the sides of the second bank is inserted to the second receiving portion of the retaining assembly when the second bank is attached to the table. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized by further comprising one or more channels in the first bank that are sized and configured to be received in the first receiving portion of the retainer assembly when the first bank that is attached to the table and further comprising one or more channels in the second bank that are sized and configured to be received in the second receiving portion of the retaining assembly when the second bank is attached to the table. The table and bench system according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises a flange of the receiving portion of the retaining assembly that is sized and configured to be inserted into at least one of the channels in the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table and further comprises a flange of the second receiving portion of the retaining assembly that is dimensioned and configured to be inserted into at least one of the channels in the second bank when the second bank is attached to table. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first receiving element includes a fastener that is dimensioned. and configured to receive a portion of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table and wherein the second receiver includes a fastener that is sized and configured to receive a portion of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table. The table and bench system according to claim 11, characterized in that the fasteners of the first and second receiving elements are deformable to allow the first and second banks to be attached and separated from the table. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first receiving element receives at least a portion of the legs of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table and where the second receiving element receives at least a portion of the legs of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises one or more end caps attached to the ends of the legs of the first bench and one or more end caps attached to the ends of the legs of the leg. second bank; wherein the first receiving element receives at least a portion of the end caps of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table and wherein the second receiving element receives at least a portion of the end caps of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table. 15. The table and bench system according to claim 1, characterized in that the board of the first bank is in general aligned with the board of the second bank when the first and second banks are attached to the table and where the legs of the first The legs of the second bank are generally arranged adjacent to the legs of the table when the first and second banks are attached to the table. - 16. A table and bank system in which a bank can be selectively annexed and separated to the table to facilitate the movement and transportation of the system, the table and bank system is characterized in that it comprises: a bank that includes a board of the bank and one or more movable legs in relation to the bank board between a folded position and an extended position; a table including a tabletop and one or more movable legs in relation to the tabletop between a folded position and an extended position; a retainer assembly attached to the tabletop, the retainer assembly includes a receiving portion that is dimensioned and configured to receive a portion of a first side of the benchtop when the bench is attached to the table; a receiving element attached to the tabletop, the receiving element includes a receiving position that is sized and configured to receive a portion of the legs of the bench when the bench is attached to the table; wherein the retainer assembly and the receiver element allow the bank to be selectively attached and separated to the table. 17. The table and bench system according to claim 16, characterized in that the retaining assembly includes a first post and a second post that are generally aligned along an axis of the table top. The table and bench system according to claim 16, characterized in that it further comprises one or more channels in the bank that is dimensioned and configured to be received in the receiving portion of the retention assembly when the bench is attached to the table . The table and bench system according to claim 18, characterized in that it further comprises a flange of the receiving portion of the retaining assembly that is dimensioned and configured to be inserted into at least one of the channels in the bank when the Bank is attached to the table. The table and bench system according to claim 16, characterized in that the receiving element includes a fastener that receives at least a portion of the legs of the bench when the bench is attached to the table. The table and bench system according to claim 16, characterized in that it further comprises one or more end caps attached to the ends of the legs of the bench; wherein the receiving element receives at least a portion of the end caps of the bank when the bank is attached to the table. 2

2. A table and bank system in which the banks can be selectively annexed and separated to the table to facilitate the movement and transportation of the system, the table and bank system is characterized in that it comprises: a first bank that includes a board of the bank and one or more movable legs in relation to the bank board between a folded position and an extended position; a second bank that includes a bank board and one or more movable legs in relation to the bank board between a folded position and an extended position; and a table comprising: a tabletop; one or more movable legs in relation to the tabletop between one or between a folded position and an extended position; a first post attached to the tabletop, the first post includes a first receiving portion that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bank, when the first bank is attached to the table, the first post includes a second portion receiver that is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table; a second post attached to the tabletop, the second post includes a first receiving portion that is dimensioned and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table, the second post includes a receiving portion that it is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table; a first fastener attached to the tabletop and which is dimensioned and configured to receive at least a portion of the first bank when the first bank is attached to the table; and a second fastener attached to the tabletop and which is dimensioned and configured to receive at least a portion of the second bank when the second bank is attached to the table. 2

3. The table and bench system according to claim 22, characterized in that an upper surface of the first bench and an upper surface of the second bench are facing in a direction generally opposite to an upper surface of the table top when the first and second banks are attached to the table. 2

4. The table and bench system according to claim 22, characterized in that it also comprises a handle attached to the table. 2

5. The table and bench system according to claim 22, characterized in that when the first bank or the second bank is attached to the table, the legs of the table are secured in the folded position. 2

6. The table and bench system according to claim 22, characterized in that it further comprises a frame attached to the table, the frame includes a first lateral stringer disposed next to a first side of the table and a second lateral stringer disposed next to the table. a second side of the table; wherein when the first bank and the second bank are attached to the table, the first bank and the second bank are generally disposed between a first plane generally aligned with the first side rail and a second plane aligned with the second side rail. 2

7. The table and bench system according to claim 26, characterized in that the first lateral stringer includes a displaced portion and the second lateral stringer includes a displaced portion. 2

8. A method for attaching a bank to a table, the bank includes a bank board and one or more movable legs relative to the bank board between a folded position and an extended position; the table includes a table top, one or more movable legs in relation to the table top between a folded position and an extended position, a first retention assembly including a receiving portion, a second retention assembly including a receiving portion and a fastener, the method is characterized in that it comprises: inserting a first portion of the bench board to the receiving portion of the first retaining assembly and inserting a second portion of the bench board to the receiving portion of the second retaining assembly and inserting a portion from one or more legs of the bench to the bra to secure the bench to the table.