WO2004058003A2

WO2004058003A2 - Table with expandable table top

Info

Publication number: WO2004058003A2
Application number: PCT/IB2003/006450
Authority: WO
Inventors: Zhurong Chen; Shenghao Jin; Wen Ai
Original assignee: Lifetime Hong Kong, Ltd.
Priority date: 2002-12-25
Filing date: 2003-12-23
Publication date: 2004-07-15
Also published as: AU2003299431A1; WO2004058003A3; AU2003299431A8

Abstract

A table is provided having a first table top and a second table top which are configured to matingly engage to form a composite table top. In addition, one or more expansion table tops can be placed between the first table top and second table top to increase the surface area of the composite table top. The first table top and second table top are attached to a sliding assembly to selectively position the first table top and the second table top between a closed position and an open or expanded position. A first leg assembly and a second leg assembly are attached to the sliding assembly. The inner edges of the first and second table tops and the inner edges of the first expansion table top and the second expansion table top are configured to matingly engage with each other.

Description

TABLE WITHEXPANDABLE TABLE TOP

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [001] This application claim priority to and benefit of Chinese Patent

Application No. 2256344.X, filed December 27, 2002 and entitled "A Folding Table with Expandable Table top," which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The Field of the Invention

[002] ^■ The present invention relates to furniture. In particular, it relates to a table with an expandable table top. The Relevant Technology

[003] The furniture industry is constantly looking for ways to improve the functionality of furniture. Improvements include aspects such as the practicality, utility, simplicity of design, safety, and comfort of the furniture. Tables having expandable table tops have been invented to increase the versatility of tables. [004] For example, an expandable table is disclosed in Chinese Patent CN

2423789Y, entitled "a folding extension table." In this application, a table includes a first main table top and a second main table top, a foldable expansion table top, leg frames to support the table, and rotation shaft. The first main table top and the second main table top can be placed together to form a composite table top. Alternatively, the expansion table top can be added in the middle of the first main table top and the second main table top to increase the size of the composite table top. Sliding rails allow the first main table top and the second main table top to be selectively positioned between an expanded position and a closed position. The expansion table top includes to two pivotably connected boards. The hinge joints that pivotably connect the boards are also slidably disposed on the rotation shaft. The rotation shaft is installed on the leg frames.

[005] When storing the expansion table top, it is folded and rotated about the rotation shaft so that it lays underneath the main table tops parallel thereto. When store underneath the main table tops, the folded expansion table top can also be slid to one side or the other along the rotation shaft so as to make room for other objects for the table, for example, the shaft of an umbrella stand that is disposed in the center of the main table tops.

[006] However, this expandable table has some drawbacks. First, the surface of the first and second main table tops come in direct contact with the sliding rails. As a result, there is a tendency for the sliding mechanism to become blocked by foreign objects, thus impeding the expandability or contractibility of the first and second main table top and thus sustain damage. Second, combination of the hinge joints being disposed on the rotation shaft does not form a very strong structure. Moreover, it does not sustain force in a rational way, and it has a complex structure. In addition, the flat interfaces of the inner edges of the first and second main table tops and the inner edges of the expansion table top make it difficult to ensure a close interface when the expanded composite table top is assembled.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [007] To address the above-described shortcomings in the current art, the present invention seeks to provide a table with expandable table top that is safe to use, is easy to assemble, and has a simple structure.

[008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a table has a first table top having a top surface and a bottom surface extending between a first outer end and a first inner end; a second table top having a top surface and a bottom surface extending between a second outer end and a second inner end; a first sliding assembly having a first rail rigidly attached to the first table top and a first channel slidably disposed in relation to the first rail, the first channel being at least indirectly attached to the second table top, such that the first table top and second table top are selectively positionable between a closed position and an expanded position, a first leg assembly attached to a first end of the first channel; a second leg assembly attached to a second end of the first channel; and a first expansion table top configured to be selectively disposed between the first table top and the second table top, the first expansion table top having a third inner end and an opposing fourth inner end. In one embodiment, the second end of the first channel is rigidly attached to the second table top. In another embodiment, a second rail is rigidly attached to the second table top, the second rail being slidably disposed in the first channel. Guide wheels may be mounted between the first rail and the first channel.

[009] The table further includes a second sliding assembly having a second rail rigidly attached to the first table top and a second channel slidably disposed in relation to the second rail, the second channel being at least indirectly attached to the second table top, such that the first table top and second table top are selectively positionable between a closed position and an expanded position, wherein the first leg assembly is attached to a first end of the second channel; and the second leg assembly is attached to a second end of the second channel. In one embodiment, the second end of the second channel is rigidly attached to the second table top. hi another embodiment, a third rail is rigidly attached to the second table top, the third rail being slidably disposed in the second channel. Guide wheels may be mounted between the second rail and the second channel. [010] In the closed position, the first inner end of the first table top is configured to matingly engage with the second inner end of the second table top. hi the open position, the third inner end of the first expansion table top is configured to matmgly engage with one of the first inner end of the first table top and the second inner end of the second table top, and the fourth inner end of the first expansion table top is configured to matingly engage with one of the first inner end of the first table top and the second inner end of the second table top.

[011] Each of the first inner end of the first table top, second inner end of the second table top, third inner end of the first expansion table top, and fourth inner end of the first expansion table top includes at least one projecting tooth outwardly projecting therefrom; and at least one recessed tooth formed thereon, the at least one recessed tooth having a shape which is complementary to the at least one projecting tooth. The at least one projecting tooth may include a notch formed thereon and the at least one recessed tooth may include a projection formed thereon, the projection having a shape which is complementary to the notch. Each of the first inner end of the first table top, second inner end of the second table top, third inner end of the first expansion table top, and fourth inner end of the first expansion table top may include at least one female fastener formed on the bottom surface thereof; and at least one male fastener formed on the bottom surface thereof, the at least one male fastener having a shape which is complementary to the at least one female fastener. [012] The first table top includes a first attachment ridge formed on the bottom surface thereof, wherein the first rail is attached to the first attachment ridge. A first retaining member is formed parallel to the first attachment ridge. The first retaining member includes a first groove facing the center of the first table top and a second groove formed on the bottom surface thereof, wherein the first groove is configured to receive at least a portion of one of the third inner end or the fourth inner end of the first expansion table top and the second groove is configured to receive at least a portion of one of the first leg assembly and second leg assembly. A first storage space is formed on the bottom surface of first table top and a second storage space is formed on the bottom surface of the second table top. A similar attachment ridge and retaining member can be formed on the opposing side of the first table top so that the retaining members can cooperate to store the first expansion table top in the storage space formed on the bottom surface of the second table top. Similarly, attachment ridges and retaining members can be formed on the second table top to store a second expansion table top.

[013] The table may further include a first positioning element attached to a portion of the first channel, the positioning element including a first mounting plate, a first positioning tab disposed transversely to the first mounting plate, and a second positioning tab disposed transversely to the first mounting plate; a first retaining groove formed on the first inner end of the first table top, wherein the first positioning tab of the first positioning element is configured to selectively engage the first retaining groove; and a second retaining groove formed on the second inner end of the second table top, wherein the second positioning tab of the first positioning element is configured to selectively engage the second retaining groove. A third retaining groove may be formed on the third inner end of the first expansion table top, wherein the third retaining groove is configured to selectively receive at least one of the first positioning tab and the second positioning tab of the first positioning element; and a fourth retaimng groove may be formed on the fourth inner end of the first expansion table top, wherein the fourth retaining groove is configured to selectively receive at least one of the first positioning tab and the second positioning tab of the first positioning element. The second sliding assembly may also include a second position element configured to operate substantially the same as the first positioning element. A fifth retaining groove may also be formed on the bottom surface of the first expansion table top, the fifth retaining groove configured to selectively receive at least one of the first positioning tab and the second positioning tab of the first positioning element.

[014] In one preferred embodiment, the first table top, the second table top, and the first expansion table top are constructed of blow-molded plastic. [015] In one preferred embodiment, the first leg assembly and the second leg assembly are pivotally attached to the first sliding channel. A first support assembly may be pivotably attached to the first leg assembly and pivotably attached to the first channel; and a second support assembly may be pivotably attached to the second leg assembly and pivotably attached to the first channel.

[016] The first expansion table top may include at least one notch and at least one recess formed on a bottom surface thereof. Thus, when the table includes a second expansion table top having at least one notch and at least one recess formed on a bottom surface thereof, the at least one notch of the second expansion table top is matingly engageable with the at least one recess of the first expansion table top, and wherein the at least one recess of the second expansion table top is matmgly engageable with the at least one notch of the first expansion table top. [017] Thus, according to one aspect of the invention, the pair of sliding assemblies allows the first and second table top to be selectively positioned between a closed position and an expanded position. Between the slide rails and the slide channels are mounted guide wheels which increase the ease of sliding movement. The first table top and second table top are able to matingly engage. In addition, they can matingly engage with both sides of a first expansion member when disposed therebetween. Furthermore, storage means are provided for storing one or more expansion table tops within the volume of the first and second table tops and leg assemblies.

[018] These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [019] To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

[020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a table of the present invention in the closed configuration.

[021] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1 in the open or expanded position.

[022] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of embodiment Figure 1 in the open or expanded position.

[023] FIG. 4 is a fragmentary exploded view of the table of embodiment of Figure 1. [024] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an expansion table top of Figure 1. [025] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a table according to the present invention.

[026] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a table according to the present invention.

[027] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of still another embodiment of a table according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [028] With reference to Figures 1 through 5, an exemplary table is shown incorporating features of the present invention. The table includes a first table top 1, a second table top 2, a first leg assembly 3, a second leg assembly 4, a first expansion table top 5, a second expansion table top 6, a first sliding assembly 7, and a second sliding assembly 8.

[029] The first table top 1 and the second table top 2 are symmetrically distributed on the first leg assembly 3 and the second leg assembly 4. hi addition, the first leg assembly 3 and second leg assembly 4 are pivotally attached to the first sliding assembly 7 and second sliding assembly 8.

[030] As shown in Figure 1, the first table top 1 and second table top 2, when placed adjacent each other form a composite table top. Thus, each first table top 1 and second table top 2 includes an outer edge and an inner mating edge. In addition, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, expansion table tops 5, 6 can be placed between first table top 1 and second table top 2 to expand the size of the composite table top. [031] The first table top 1 has a flat top surface and a bottom surface. With reference to Figure 4, a lip is formed around the outer edge of the bottom surface and extending outwardly therefrom. The lip is not formed on the inner edge of the first table top and may also not be formed on a portion of the opposing outside edge of the first table top. A first attachment ridge 11 and a second attachment ridge 12 is formed on the bottom surface of the first table top 1 on opposing sides thereof. Preferably, the first attachment ridge 11 and second attachment ridge 12 is formed adjacent the lip.

[032] Also formed on the bottom surface of the first table top 1 are a first retaining member 13, a second retaining member 14, a first raised platform 15, a first male fastener 16, a second female fastener 17, a first positioning groove 18, and a second positioning groove 19.

[033] The first retaining member 13 and the second retaining member 14 are located on the bottom surface of the first table top 1 and formed adjacent to one of the attachment ridges 11, 12, respectively. The inner side of the first retaining member 13 has a first groove 131. The inner side of the second retaining member 14 has a second groove 141. The top surface of the first groove 131 has the third male fastener 1311. Likewise, the top surface of the second groove 141 has a fourth male fastener. [034] The first raised platform 15 is located on the bottom surface of the first table top 1 and formed near the inner edge thereof. The first inner edge 151 of the first raised platform 15 includes a configuration that matingly engages with the corresponding inner edge of the second table top 2. In the embodiment of Figure 4, the first inner edge 151 comprises a first projecting tooth 1511, a second recessed tooth 1512, a third projecting tooth 1513, and a fourth recessed tooth 1514. [035] The first male fastener 16 and the second female fastener 17 are located on the inner edge of the first table top near the ends of the first attachment ridge 11 and the second attachment ridge 12. [036] A first positioning groove 18 and a second positioning groove 19 are located on the bottom surface of the first table top 1 and located on either side of the raised platform 15. The first positioning groove 18 is open on the inner edge of the table top. Similarly, the second positioning groove 19 is open on the inner edge of the table top 1.

[037] The structure of the second table top 2 is the symmetrical structure relative to the first table top 1. It comprises a third retaimng member (Figure 1), a fourth retaining member (Figure 1), a second raised platform 25, a first female fastener 26, and a second male fastener 27.

[038] The shape of the inner edge 251 of the second raised platform 25 has a configuration that is configured to matingly engage with the first inner edge 151 of the first table top. In the embodiment of Figure 4, the inner edge 251 comprises a first recessed tooth 2511, a second projecting tooth 2512, a third recessed tooth 2513, and a fourth projecting tooth 2514.

[039] The top surface of each of the first projecting tooth 1511, the second projecting tooth 2512, the third projecting tooth 1513, and the fourth projecting tooth 2514 has a notch. The first inner edge 151 of the first raised platform 15 and the inner edge 251 of the second raised platform 25 has a protrusion on each of the first recessed tooth 2511, the second recessed tooth 1512, the third recessed tooth 2513, and the fourth recessed tooth 1514.

[040] As such, when the inner edge 151 of the first table top 1 is placed adjacent the inner edge 251 of the second table top 2, the edges 151, 251 matingly engage so as to form a composite table top with sufficient support at the center thereof. Note that the top surface of the inner edge 151 is flat so that when the first table top 1 is placed adjacent to the second table top 2, the interface on the top surface thereof is a straight line. This same concept also applies to the top surface of the inner edges of the expansion table tops.

[041] In addition, the first table top 1 and second table top 2 are configured to be selectively moved apart so as to receive expansion table tops 5, 6 therebetween to expand the surface area of the table. A sliding assembly including the first sliding assembly 7 and second sliding assembly 8 is provided to assist the first table top 1 and second table top 2 to be moved into an opened or expanded position. [042] The first sliding assembly 7 includes a first sliding channel 71, a first sliding rail 72, a third sliding rail 73, and a first positioning element 74. The first sliding rail 72 is attached to the first table top 1 adjacent the first attachment ridge 11. The third sliding rail 73 is attached to the second table top 2 adjacent a first attachment ridge on the second table top. The first sliding rail 72 and second sliding rail 73 are slidably disposed within the first sliding channel 71. [043] The second sliding assembly 8 comprises a second sliding channel 81, and second sliding rail 82, a fourth sliding rail 83, and a second positioning element 84. The second sliding rail 82 is attached to the first table top 1 adjacent the second attachment ridge 12. The fourth sliding rail 83 is attached to the second table top 2 adjacent a second attachment ridge formed thereon. The second sliding rail 82 and the fourth sliding rail 83 are slidably disposed within the second sliding channel 81. [044] The first sliding rail 72 and the second sliding rail 82 are spaced apart and attached to the first attachment ridge 11 and the second attachment ridge 12 of the bottom surface of the first table top 1. The third sliding rail 73 and the fourth sliding rail 83 are also similarly attached to the bottom surface of the second table top 2. [045] The first sliding rail 72 is U-shaped. On each side, near the base of the U, there are three guide wheels 721. Each guide wheel is pivotally attached with a rotation shaft to the first sliding rail 72. Likewise, the second sliding rail 82, the third sliding rail 73, and the fourth sliding rail 83 all have guide wheels. [046] The first sliding channel 71 is slidably disposed with the first sliding rail

72, the third sliding rail 73. Similarly, the second sliding channel 81 is slidably disposed with the second sliding rail 82 and the fourth sliding rail 83. Thus, the first sliding channel 71 and second sliding channel 81 are spaced apart and placed in slidable relation to the attachment ridges and retention members. The first leg assembly 3 and second leg assembly 4 are attached to the first sliding channel 71 and second sliding channel 81. Thus, when the table is in an upright position, the leg assemblies 3, 4 maintain the sliding channels 71, 81 in a spaced apart configuration on which slidably rests the first table top 1 and second table top 2. [047] The first positioning element 74 is attached to a central location of the first sliding channel 71. As shown in Figure 4, the first positioning element 74 comprises a first mounting plate 741, a first positioning tab 742, and a second positioning tab 743. The first mounting plate 741 is fixed to the inner side 711 of the first sliding channel 71 at a central location thereof. The first positioning tab 742 and the second positioning tab 743 are spaced apart and perpendicularly fixed to the lower end of the first mounting plate 741. The structure of the second positioning element 84 is the same as that of the first positioning element 74.

[048] With reference to Figure 3, the first leg assembly 3 includes a first leg 31, a second leg 32, a first base rod 33, a support assembly 34, and a cross bar 35. The first cross bar 35 is pivotally attached to the first sliding channel 71 and the second sliding channel 81. The first leg 31 and the second leg 32 are spaced apart and fixedly attached to the first base rod 33 and the first cross bar 35. [049] The first support assembly 34 comprises a N-shaped element 341, a first

connecting rod 342, and a first "λ"-shaped connecting element 343. The two free

ends of the first N-shaped element 341 are spaced apart and pivotably attached to the first leg 31 and the second leg 32. One end of the first connecting rod 342 is pivotably attached to the converging end of the first N-shaped element 341. The other

end is pivotably attached to the converging end of the first "λ"-shaped connecting

element 343. The two free ends of the first "λ"-shaped connecting element 343 are

spaced apart and pivotally attached to the first sliding channel 71 and the second sliding channel 81. The structure of the second leg assembly 4 is the same as that of the first leg assembly 3.

[050] Thus, the first sliding assembly 7 and second sliding assembly 8 form a frame by which the first leg assembly 3 and second leg assembly 4 can be attached to the first table top 1 and the second table top 2, respectively. When the first leg assembly 3 and second leg assembly 4 are placed in an open position, the table can be placed upright. The first sliding channel 71 and second sliding channel 81 slidably receive the sliding rails 72, 73, 82, 83. Because the sliding rails 72, 73, 82, 83 are attached to the first table top 1 and the second table top 2, an outward force applied to the first table top 1 and/or second table top 2 will cause the table tops to move along the sliding channels 71, 81. Thus, the first table top 1 and second table top 2 can be selectively positioned between a closed position (Figure 1) and an open or expanded position (Figure 3).

[051] In the closed position shown in Figure 1, the inner edges of the first table top 1 and the second table top 2 matingly engage. That is, as shown in Figure 1, teeth and recesses of the inner edges of the first table top 1 and the second table top 2 engage each other. In addition, the protrusions and the notches of the first table top 1 and the second table top 2 engage each other to secure the table tops in relation to each other. The first male fastener 16 of the first table top 1 engages the first female fastener 26 of the second table top. Likewise, the second male fastener 17 of the first table top 1 engages the second female fastener 27 of the second table top 2. The positioning elements 74 of the first sliding channel 71 engages the first positioning groove 18 on the inner edge 151 of the first table top 1 and a corresponding positioning groove on the inner edge 251 of the second table top 2. Similarly, the positioning element 84 engages the second positioning groove 19 on the first table top 1 and a corresponding positioning groove on the second table top 2. [052] In addition, the leg assemblies 3, 4 allow the table to be folded between a use position and a storage position. When the leg assemblies 3, 4 are folded against the bottom surface of the table top, the grooves on the top of the retaining members are configured to receive a leg of the leg assembly. Thus the leg assemblies are securely held parallel to the bottom surface of the table until the user desires to unfold them.

[053] With reference now to Figure 5, a first expansion table top 5 is illustrated which is configured to be disposed between the first table top 1 and the second table top 2 when those table tops are placed in an expanded position. The top surface of the first expansion table top 5 is flat. The bottom surface has a first raised portion 51, a second raise portion 52, a first inner edge 53, a second inner edge 54, a third positioning groove 55, and a fourth positioning groove 56. The third positioning groove 55 and the fourth positioning groove 56 are configured in the shape of a cross. [054] The first raised portion 51 and the second raise portion 52 are located on opposing outer edges of the bottom surface of the first expansion table top 5. On the bottom surface of the first raised portion 51, there is a seventh male fastener 511, and on the bottom surface of the second raise portion 52, there is a seventh female fastener

521.

[055] The first inner edge 53 of expansion table top 5 is configured to matingly engage the inner edge of one of the first table top 1 or second table top 2. In one embodiment, the first inner edge 53 includes a fifth recessed tooth 531, a sixth projecting tooth 532, a seventh recessed tooth 533, and an eighth projecting tooth 534.

[056] The second inner edge 54 of expansion table top 5 is configured to matingly engage the inner edge of the second table top 2. In one embodiment, the second inner edge 54 comprises a fifth projecting tooth 541, a sixth recessed tooth

542, a seventh projecting tooth 543, and an eighth recessed tooth 544.

[057] There is a notch on each of the fifth projecting tooth 541, the sixth projecting tooth 532, the seventh projecting tooth 543, and the eight projecting tooth

534. The second inner edge 54 and the first inner edge 53 of the first expansion table top 5 have a protrusion on each of the fifth recessed tooth 531, the sixth recessed tooth 542, the seventh recessed 533, and the eight recessed tooth 544.

[058] The bottom surface of the first expansion table 5 also has four positioning recesses 57 and four female fasteners 58. The four positioning recesses 57 are spaced apart on the bottom surface of the first expansion table top 5 near the first inner edge and the second inner edge. The four female fasteners 58 are spaced apart and located on the first inner edge and second inner edge nearer the outer edges than the recesses

57.

[059] The bottom surfaces of the fifth projecting tooth 541 and the sixth projecting tooth 532 of the first inner edge 53 and the second inner edge 54 of the first expansion table 5 separately have a third female fastener 5411 and a fourth female fastener 5321. [060] The structure of the second expansion table top 6 is the same as that of the first expansion table top 5.

[061] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, when it is desired to expand the surface area of the table top, the first table top 1 and second table top 2 are pulled outward into the expanded position. That is, the first table top 1 and second table top 2 slide on channels 71, 81 to leave a space therebetween, the space being configured to receive one or both expansion table tops 5, 6.

[062] When one or both expansion table tops 5, 6 are placed between the first table top 1 and the second table top 2, the engagement of the inner edges 151, 251 of the table tops 1, 2 and the expansion table tops 5, 6 provide a secure expanded table top with increased surface area. The projecting teeth of the table tops 1, 2, 5 and/or 6 engage corresponding recesses formed on adjacent inner edges. In addition, the protrusions and notches formed on the projecting teeth or recesses matingly engage each other to fix the table tops in relation to each other. The positioning element 74 engages corresponding positioning grooves formed on the inner edge of the first table top 1 or second table top 2 and/or the expansion table tops 5, 6. [063] The interaction between the male fastener 16 formed on the bottom surface of the first table top 1 and the female fastener 58 of the expansion table top 5 or 6 fixes the position of the first expansion table top 5. Likewise, similar connections between the second table top 2 and second expansion table top 6 secures the second expansion table top thereto.

[064] Turning now to Figure 6, an alternative embodiment of a table incorporating features of the present invention is shown. The table of Figure 6 is similar to the table of Figures 1 through 5. As such, like elements will be referred to with like reference characters. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the third sliding rail 73 and the first sliding channel 71 are fixedly attached and the fourth sliding rail 83 and the second sliding channel 81 are fixedly attached.

[065] When necessary, the first table top 1 can be pulled out by means of the movements of the first sliding rail 72 and the third sliding rail 73 relative to the first sliding channel 71 and the second sliding channel 81, respectively. Thus, the table can be selectively positioned into an expansion position and the first expansion table top 5 can be inserted in the space formed between the first table top and the second table top. Alternatively, the third sliding rail 73 and the fourth sliding rail 83 could be eliminated with the first sliding channel 71 and second sliding channel 81 being fixedly attached to the first table top 1 and the second table top 2, respectively. [066] The inner edge of the first table top 1 and the inner edge of the first expansion table top 5 matingly engage as discussed above. In addition, the inner edge of the second table top 2 and the inner edge of the first expansion table top 5 matingly engage. The positioning element 74 engages groove 18 and a corresponding groove formed on the expansion table top 5.

[067] Figures 1 and 6 also illustrate how one or both of the expansion table tops

5, 6 can be stored on the bottom surface of the first or second table top when not in use. As shown in Figure 6, the second expansion table top 6 is stored on the bottom surface of the second table top 2. That is, the second table top 2 can be placed in the space between the second raised portion 25 and the outer edge of the second table top 2. Note that a space is formed, as discussed above, in the lip formed on the outer edge of the second table top 2. The space is configured to receive an end of the second expansion table top 6. Grooves formed on the inside surface of the retaining members are configured to receive at least a portion of the inner edge of the second expansion table top 6. Similar grooves 131 and 141 are pointed out more clearly in Figure 4. Grooves 131 and 141 are formed on the inner sides of the first retaining member 13 and configured to receive at least a portion of the inner edges of the first expansion table top 5. Figure 1 shows both expansion table tops 5, 6 being stored. [068] Turning now to Figure 7, another embodiment of the table is shown incorporated features of the present invention. The table of Figure 7 is similar to that of Figures 1 through 5, thus like elements will be referred to with like reference numerals. Figure 7 illustrates that the surface area of the table may be varied by varying the number of expansion table tops used, hi the embodiment of Figure 7, only first expansion table top 5 is inserted between the first table top 1 and the second table top 2.

[069] The inner edge of the first table top 1 matingly engages with the first inner edge of the first expansion table top 5. Similarly, the opposing inner edge of the fist expansion table top 5 matingly engages with the inner edge of the second table top 2. [070] In addition, Figure 7 illustrates how the first positioning element 74 engages the third positioning groove 55 when a single expansion table top 5 is employed. Note that the positioning tabs 742, 743 engage opposing ends of the cross- shaped positioning groove 55 to secure the expansion table top 5. Compare Figure 6 in which the positioning element 74 engages positioning grooves formed the inner edges of the second table top 2 and first expansion table top 5 instead of on the bottom surface of the expansion table top. Thus, the positioning element 74 can be used in variety of ways to secure the expansion table tops to the table. [071] Figure 8 illustrates an embodiment of the table of Figures 1 through 5 wherein the user now desires to store the table. In conventional folding tables, the expansion table tops are stored separately. This requires additional storage space for the expansion table tops. To obviate the need for additional storage space, one of the expansion table tops can be placed between tables tops 1, 2 while the other is stored on the opposing side. As shown in Figure 8, the bottom surface of the first expansion table top 5 matingly engages with the bottom surface of the second expansion table top 6. The male fasteners 411 engage opposing female fasteners 521 located on the bottom surface of each expansion table top. Thus, the expansion table tops 5, 6 can be stored in the same volume as the table.

[072] Preferably, the first table top 1, second table top 2, first expansion table top

5, and second expansion table top 6 are formed of blow-molded plastic. Thus, mating components can be formed during the blow-molding process, reducing the time and cost of manufacturing.

[073] It will be appreciated that the mating surfaces of the first inner edge and second inner edge of each expansion table top 5, 6 are configured such that either edge can be placed adjacent the inner edge of the first table top 1 or second table top 2. Thus, the design of the expansion table tops is easy to use because it does not require overly-sophisticated mating mechanisms. Furthermore, while this description and accompanying drawings have described a table having one or two expansion table tops, it is appreciated that the table can be modified to include more than two expansion table tops.

[074] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A table comprising: a first table top having a top surface and a bottom surface extending between a first outer end and a first inner end; a second table top having a top surface and a bottom surface extending between a second outer end and a second inner end; a first sliding assembly comprising a first rail rigidly attached to the first table top and a first channel slidably disposed in relation to the first rail, the first channel being at least indirectly attached to the second table top, such that the first table top and second table top are selectively positionable between a closed position and an expanded position, a first leg assembly attached to a first end of the first channel; a second leg assembly attached to a second end of the first channel; and a first expansion table top configured to be selectively disposed between the first table top and the second table top, the first expansion table top having a third inner end and an opposing fourth inner end.

2. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the second end of the first channel is rigidly attached to the second table top.

3. The table as recited in claim 1, further comprising a second rail rigidly attached to the second table top, the second rail being slidably disposed in the first channel.

4. The table as recited in claim 1, further comprising guide wheels mounted between the first rail and the first channel.

5. The table as recited in claim 1 , further comprising: a second sliding assembly comprising a second rail rigidly attached to the first table top and a second channel slidably disposed in relation to the second rail, the second channel being at least indirectly attached to the second table top, such that the first table top and second table top are selectively positionable between a closed position and an expanded position, wherein the first leg assembly is attached to a first end of the second channel; and the second leg assembly is attached to a second end of the second channel.

6. The table as recited in claim 5, wherein the second end of the second channel is rigidly attached to the second table top.

7. The table as recited in claim 6, further comprising a third rail rigidly attached to the second table top, the third rail being slidably disposed in the second channel.

8. The table as recited in claim 5, further comprising guide wheels mounted between the second rail and the second channel.

9. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein in the closed position, the first inner end of the first table top is configured to matingly engage with the second inner end of the second table top.

10. The table as recited in claim 1 , wherein, in the open position, the third inner end of the first expansion table top is configured to matingly engage with one of the first inner end of the first table top and the second inner end of the second table top, and the fourth inner end of the first expansion table top is configured to matingly engage with one of the first inner end of the first table top and the second inner end of the second table top.

11. The table as recited in claim 1 , wherein each of the first inner end of the first expansion table top, second inner end of the second expansion table top, third inner end of the first expansion table top, and fourth inner end of the first expansion table top comprises: at least one projecting tooth outwardly projecting therefrom; and at least one recessed tooth formed thereon, the at least one recessed tooth having a shape which is complementary to the at least one projecting tooth.

12. The table as recited in claim 11, wherein the at least one projecting tooth comprises a notch formed thereon and the at least one recessed tooth comprises a projection formed thereon, the projection having a shape which is complementary to the notch.

13. The table as recited in claim 11 , wherein each of the first inner end of the first expansion table top, second inner end of the second expansion table top, third inner end of the first expansion table top, and fourth inner end of the first expansion table top comprises: at least one female fastener formed on the bottom surface thereof; and at least one male fastener formed on the bottom surface thereof, the at least one male fastener having a shape which is complementary to the at least one female fastener.

14. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the first table top includes a first attachment ridge formed on the bottom surface thereof, wherein the first rail is attached to the first attachment ridge.

15. The table as recited in claim 14, further comprising a first retaining member formed parallel to the first attachment ridge.

16. The table as recited in claim 15, wherein the first retaining member comprises a first groove facing the center of the first table top and a second groove formed on the bottom surface thereof, wherein the first groove is configured to receive at least a portion of one of the third inner end or the fourth inner end of the first expansion table top and the second groove is configured to receive at least a portion of one of the first leg assembly and second leg assembly.

17. The table as recited in claim 1, further comprising a first storage space formed on the bottom surface of first table top and a second storage space formed on the bottom surface of the second table top.

18. The table as recited in claim 1 , further comprising: a first positioning element attached to a portion of the first channel, the positioning element including a first mounting plate, a first positioning tab disposed transversely to the first mounting plate, and a second positioning tab disposed transversely to the first mounting plate; a first retaining groove formed on the first inner end of the first table top, wherein the first positioning tab of the first positioning element is configured to selectively engage the first retaining groove; and a second retaining groove formed on the second inner end of the second table top, wherein the second positioning tab of the first positioning element is configured to selectively engage the second retaining groove.

19. The table as recited in claim 18, further comprising: a third retaining groove formed on the third inner end of the first expansion table top, wherein the third retaining groove is configured to selectively receive at least one of the first positioning tab and the second positioning tab of the first positioning element; and a fourth retaining groove formed on the fourth inner end of the first expansion table top, wherein the fourth retaining groove is configured to selectively receive at least one of the first positioning tab and the second positioning tab of the first positioning element.

20. The table as recited in claim 19, further comprising: a fifth retaining groove formed on the bottom surface of the first expansion table top, the fifth retaining groove configured to selectively receive at least one of the first positioning tab and the second positioning tab of the first positioning element.

21. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the first table top, the second table top, and the first expansion table top are constructed of blow-molded plastic.

22. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the first leg assembly and the second leg assembly are pivotally attached to the first sliding channel.

23. The table as recited in claim 22, further comprising: a first support assembly pivotably attached to the first leg assembly and pivotably attached to the first channel; and a second support assembly pivotably attached to the second leg assembly and pivotably attached to the first channel.

24. The table as recited in claim 1, wherein the first expansion table top comprises at least one notch and at least one recess formed on a bottom surface thereof.

25. The table as recited in claim 24, further comprising a second expansion table top having at least one notch and at least one recess formed on a bottom surface thereof, wherein the at least one notch of the second expansion table top is matingly engageable with the at least one recess of the first expansion table top, and wherein the at least one recess of the second expansion table top is matingly engageable with the at least one notch of the first expansion table top.