WO2016020629A1

WO2016020629A1 - An adjustable tableware holder for a table

Info

Publication number: WO2016020629A1
Application number: PCT/GB2015/000221
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gillian Eileen PERKS; Christian Edward PERKS
Original assignee: Perks Gillian Eileen; Perks Christian Edward
Priority date: 2014-08-07
Filing date: 2015-07-29
Publication date: 2016-02-11
Also published as: GB2530623B; GB2530623A; GB201413992D0; GB201512982D0

Abstract

An adjustable tableware holder for a table comprising a table attachment means (20) configured for detachable connection to a table (50) for fixedly securing an adjustable tableware holder (100) to a table, a tableware holding means (100) configured to have an upper surface suitable for receiving at least one item of tableware thereon and a connector (30) for connecting the table attachment means and tableware holding means, the connector being adapted to allow the tableware holding means to move relative to the table attachment means at least outwardly from the table to extend over the edge of the table. The tableware holding means (100) is slidably connected to the table attachment means (20) and further comprises a locking member to selectively position the tableware holding means with respect to the table attachment means and the edge of the table.

Description

An adjustable tableware holder for a table

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an adjustable tableware holder for a table that holds items of tableware and which is extendable from the table so that a user can use the tableware thereon.

Background

When a person sits at a table to eat, they will normally commence by sitting on their seat while it is a small distance from the table, and then moving both the chair and themselves inwards towards the table so that their legs are under the table and their trunk is directly adjacent to the table. This helps to bring them closer to their plate so that they don't have to lean awkwardly forwards towards the table to keep their head above the plate to eat. The plate is normally located towards the edge or side of the tale, but securely on the table.

Older or less physically able people can find it difficult to pull themselves and their chair forwards under the table once seated. They may work around this by placing their plates closer to or overlapping the table edge, or on trays that overlap the edge, to effectively extend the table towards themselves. However, these arrangements are often precariously balanced as a consequence, and the plates are easily tipped over the table edge to spill their contents onto the diner's lap.

Prior Art

Accordingly a number of patent applications have been filed in an attempt to resolve the problem or similar, including the following:

US1108692 describes and shows a device comprising a substantially L-shaped tray, a channel-shaped member having its base secured to one of the sides of the tray, a right angular metal strap having one side secured to the opposite face of the side of the tray, and having its opposite side projecting forwardly, a threaded bolt operating in one of the sides of the channel-shaped member, a head formed upon the bolt, the bolt having an unthreaded extension projecting through the remaining side of the channel-shaped member, and a flat disk secured at the end of the rod extension and adapted to move toward the metal strap.

US20020078866 describes and shows a self-feeding device which includes a height adjustment mechanism, a cut-out to place the eating hand arm, and a detachable plate support. The device is designed to be easily portable and light-weight, collapsing into a shoe-box-size shape.

EP1046360 describes and shows a support element for a user's arms, especially suitable for application on writing desks and comprising: a body, substantially flat and shaped in such a way as to allow a person to comfortably rest his/her forearms on it and suitable for being positioned partially overlapping the top of the writing desk; at least one stay element having a first end fixed to the body in correspondence with the surface pressing against the writing desk and a second free end whose distance from the body to which the first end is fixed is substantially equal to the thickness of the top of said writing desk, the second end pressing against the top of the writing desk in correspondence with the surface on the other side of the top. The second free end is provided with an adjustable compensation element that presses without locking against the surface on the other side of the top.

In contrast the present invention provides an adjustable tableware holder for a table that is easy to fix to a variety of tables and surfaces and which is easy to use.

Summary of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided an adjustable tableware holder for a table, comprising: a table attachment means configured for detachable connection to a table to hold the tray attachment securely thereto, a tableware holding means configured to have an upper surface suitable for receiving at least one item of tableware thereon, and a connector for connecting the table attachment means and the tableware holding means, the connector being configured to allow the tableware holding means to move relative to the table attachment means at least outwardly from the table to extend over the edge of the table. This arrangement allows a user to place their tableware on the holding means once the adjustable tableware holder is connected to a table, and move the holding means towards where they are seated rather than moving themselves towards the table, which can be particularly advantageous for the elderly or infirm when eating. Ideally, the tableware holding means is detachable but once extended over the table edge becomes captive and secure.

Preferably, the tableware holding means is slidably connected to the table attachment means and further comprises a locking member to selectively position the tableware holding means with respect to the table attachment means and the edge of the table.

In an embodiment, the table attachment means comprises a clamp configured to connect around the edge of a table. A clamp is a simple, reliable and robust mechanism.

In an embodiment, the clamp comprises a U-clamp. A U-clamp is a simple, reliable and robust mechanism well suited to clamping around the edge of a table. The U- clamp may further comprise a layer of padding at least partly covering the inner surface of the U-clamp where the inner surface will contact a table. This helps to ensure that the table will not become scratched or otherwise damaged in use.

In an embodiment, the U-clamp further comprises at least one locking member configured to act substantially perpendicularly across the body of the U-clamp to hold the U-clamp securely in position on the edge of a table. This assists with holding the U-clamp in position and helps to ensure that the clamp cannot work free from the edge of the table.

In an embodiment, the locking member comprises an elongate body that extends through one side of the U-clamp, and an inner portion connected to the inner end of the elongate body within the U-clamp having an enlarged inner surface. This provides a simple and reliable mechanism that assists with holding the U-clamp in position and helps to ensure that the clamp cannot work free from the edge of the table.

The enlarged inner surface may further comprise padding. This helps to ensure that the table will not become scratched or otherwise damaged in use. In an embodiment, the connector comprises an elongate body configured to connect with and move substantially horizontally along the clamp inwards and outwards from the edge of the table. This is a simple and robust configuration.

Preferably, the elongate body comprises an upper portion having an inner surface substantially sized with and extending parallel to an upper surface of the clamp, and a pair of lips extending downwards from each side of the elongate body to encompass the sides of the clamp. This provides a simple and robust mechanical mechanism.

The adjustable tableware holder may further comprise an end stop extending downwards from the inner end of the elongate body to abut the clamp when the tray is in an outermost position. This helps to ensure that the elongate body cannot be accidentally pulled off the clamp when a user pulls the tray outwards from the table.

The upper surface of the clamp may further comprise a plurality of clamp magnets spaced along the depth of the clamp inwards/outwards in relation to the edge of a table to which the tray attachment is attached in use, and the lower surface of the locking member further comprises a plurality of locking member magnets spaced along the depth of the locking member inwards/outwards in relation to the edge of a table to which the tray attachment is attached in use, the clamp magnets and locking member magnets interacting as the locking member is moved inwards and outwards in use to hold the locking member in a number of discrete positions. This helps to ensure a number of discrete positions for tableware in use, and helps to ensure that when in use the tableware will stay in the required position rather than sliding backwards and forwards. However, other suitable types of locking member may be incorporated into the device to selectively position the tableware holding means with respect to the tray attachment means and table.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the connector includes a framework, the framework being detachably connectable to the table attachment means and the tableware holding means. For example, the framework and tableware holding means may be provided with complementary slots and/or rails to provide a slidable connection therebetween. More preferably, the tableware holding means and framework are configured to be connectable only in a specified orientation with respect to one another. Ideally, the two are connectable when the tableware holding means is located centrally above the framework, termed the "neutral position". Once connected, the tableware holding means may slide relative to the framework but can only be removed therefrom when in the neutral position. More preferably, the tableware holding means and framework are only slidable over a predetermined maximum distance with respect to each other.

For example, in an embodiment of the present invention, the opposing sides of the framework are each provided with a guide rail, such as an inverted substantially L- shaped rail in cross-section which is relieved of material towards the centre of the framework, i.e. forming a substantially l-shaped cross-section at or towards the centre of each side. Similarly, opposing sides of the tableware holding means may each provided with a lip to form a substantially L-shaped rail which is also relieved of material in regions corresponding to the L-shaped regions of the framework, or vice versa. In this manner, the tableware holding means may be placed over the framework only when the complementary L and l-shaped profiles of the framework and tableware holding means overlie one another.

A locking member is preferably provided between the framework and the tableware holding means to temporarily hold the tableware holding means in a fixed location relative to the framework. The locking member may comprise at least one finger slidably mounted with respect to the tableware holding means for engagement and disengagement with one of a plurality of slots or recesses provided in the framework. Preferably, the at least one locking member is moveable substantially perpendicularly to the tableware holding means and/or framework.

The framework is preferably provided with a series of lateral spaced apart parallel slots or recesses for engagement with the locking member.

In a preferred embodiment, the framework is provided at least one living hinge in an intended front edge of the framework, preferably including a protuberance extending upwardly from the living hinge.

The table attachment means preferably comprises at least one bracket, actuator and vise member for connecting the framework or table holding means to an edge of a table. More preferably, the bracket comprises two substantially perpendicular limbs, a first limb having a hole or recess therethrough, wherein the first limb is received on the living hinge of the framework with the protuberance extending into or through the hole or recess. Ideally, two table attachment means are provided at each side of the framework.

The bracket may further comprise a third limb extending substantially parallel with the first limb, substantially perpendicularly from the second limb, the first and third limbs having corresponding apertures for receiving the actuator therethrough.

The actuator may comprise a handle connected to a threaded rod for mating with the vise member. Preferably, the handle is hingedly mounted with respect to the rod whereby, in the assembled configuration, the handle may be folded over to lie over the first limb which is received on the living hinge.

The tableware holding means preferably comprises a tray holder configured to connect to the upper surface of the clamp or framework and being sized and shaped to receive a tray in use. This allows a user to bring their tableware to the table on a tray and then position the tray on the tableware holding means for use. However, it is to be appreciated that tableware may be placed directly onto the tableware holding means.

Preferably, the tableware holding means at least partially surrounds the table attachment means. For example, the tableware holding means may surround the parts of the table attachment means that enable it to be dismantled from the table. In a preferred embodiment, the tableware holding means surrounds the handle of the table attachment means lying over living hinge of the framework.

In an embodiment, the side edges of the tray holder are raised. This helps to prevent the tray or other items from sliding off the tray holder.

In an embodiment, the rear edge of the tray holder is raised. This helps to prevent the tray or other items from sliding off the tray holder.

In an embodiment, the front edge of the tray holder is raised but has at least one recessed region. The raised area helps to prevent the tray or other items from sliding off the tray holder while the recessed area allows easier access to the contents of the tray or holder.

Optionallythe upper surface of the tray holder further comprises at least one rubberised area. This helps to prevent the tray or other items from sliding off the tray holder.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 shows an exploded view of a first embodiment of adjustable tableware holder of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a bottom perspective view from one side of the adjustable tableware holder of figure 1 , the tableware holder shown in a retracted position;

Figure 3 shows a side view from the right-hand side (in relation to a user sitting at a table using the apparatus) of the U-clamp of the embodiment of the tableware holder shown in figures 1 and 2;

Figure 4 shows a perspective view from the left-hand side (in relation to a user sitting at a table using the apparatus) and above of the U-clamp of the embodiment of the tableware holder shown in figure 3;

Figure 5 shows a side view of a table with the adjustable tableware holder of figures 1 and 2 clamped to one side edge, the tableware holder shown in a retracted or non- extended position;

Figure 6 shows a perspective view from the left-hand side (in relation to a user sitting at a table using the apparatus) and above of a table with the adjustable tableware holder of figures 1 and 2 clamped to one side edge, the tableware holder shown in a retracted or non-extended position;

Figures 7 and 8 show perspective front and rear views of a table fitted with an adjustable tableware holder according to a second embodiment of the present invention, the holder shown in the retracted or non-extended position; Figure 9 shows a perspective front view of a table fitted with the adjustable tableware holder of Figures 7 and 8, the holder shown in the extended position;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the tableware holding means of the adjustable tableware holder according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 11 A and 11 B are partial rear perspective views of the tableware holding means of Figure 10, shown respectively without and with associated locking means;

Figures 12A and 12B are respectively top and bottom views of a framework forming part of table attachment means of the adjustable tableware holder according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 13 is a partial perspective view of the locking means connecting the tableware holding means to the framework of Figures 12A and 12B, shown in the locked position;

Figure 14 is a partial perspective view of the locking means connecting the tableware holding means to the framework of Figures 12A and 12B, shown in the unlocked position;

Figures 15 and 16 a partial side perspective views, from below and above respectively, illustrating one mechanism for engagement of the tableware holding means and framework according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 17A to 17D illustrate positioning of a bracket forming part of the table attachment means to the framework of Figures 12A and 12B;

Figures 18A to 18E show attachment of the bracket and clamping means of the table attachment means to the framework of Figures 12A and 12B;

Figure 19A is an upper front perspective view of the framework and table attachment means assembled together according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 19B is a lower rear perspective view of the framework and table attachment means assembled together according to the second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 20 is a side cross-sectional view through an assembled adjustable tableware holder of the second embodiment, shown in the retracted position;

Figure 21 A is an upper front perspective view of an assembled adjustable tableware holder according to the second embodiment of the present invention, shown in the retracted position;

Figure 21 B is an upper rear perspective view of an assembled adjustable tableware holder according to the second embodiment of the present invention, shown in the retracted position;

Figure 22A is an upper front perspective view of an assembled adjustable tableware holder according to the second embodiment of the present invention, shown in the extended position; and

Figure 22B is an upper rear perspective view of an assembled adjustable tableware holder according to the second embodiment of the present invention, shown in the extended position.

Detailed Description

Figures 1 to 6 of the accompanying drawings illustrate one embodiment of an adjustable tableware holder according to the present invention, for attachment to a table.

The adjustable tableware holder has three main parts, as can be seen in the exploded view of Figure 1. The tableware holder comprises an optional tray , a tableware holder or tray holder 3 and a U-clamp 2 for detachably connecting the tableware holder 1 to an edge of a table 50 (see Figures 5 and 6). The tableware holder or tray holder 3 comprises a frame located above the U-clamp with a flat upper surface upon which a tray can be placed, or onto which tableware can be directly placed, and a connector 4 for slidably connecting the U-clamp 2 to the tray holder 3 so that tray holder 3 can slide outwardly from the table 50 to extend over the edge of the table 50 while the U-clamp remains stationary. A locking member is also provided to lock the tray holder at one or a series of positions relative to the clamp/table. U-clamp

The U-clamp 2 has a main body formed into a u-shape so that the U-clamp 2 can slide over the edge of a table with one arm above and one below the table. The U- clamp is sized so that it will fit somewhat loosely. A layer of padding 5 covers the inner surface of the U-clamp so the padding 5 sits between the main body of the clamp and the surface of the table 100. This helps to ensure that the table will not become scratched or otherwise damaged in use.

A locking member 6 extends upwards through the bottom arm of the 'U' substantially perpendicularly across the body of the U-clamp to hold the U-clamp securely in position on the edge of the table 100. The locking member 6 comprises an elongate body 7 that extends through the lower side of the U-clamp, and an inner portion or flat top 8 connected to the inner end of the elongate body within the U-clamp having an enlarged flat upper/inner surface. A layer of padding 9 is connected to the top of the flat surface 8. The elongate body and lower arm of the 'U' can be mutually threaded, or another suitable locking mechanism can be used, for example a bayonet-type fitting where the elongate body is pushed inwards and twisted to lock it in position.

A number of clamp magnets 10 are connected along the top surface of the upper arm of the 'U'. The function of these will be explained below.

Connector

The connector 4 (see, in particular Figure 2) that forms an attachment between the holder and the U-clamp, is formed as an elongate body with an upper portion 1 having an inner surface substantially sized with and extending parallel to the upper surface of the upper arm of the 'U' of the U-clamp. A pair of lips 12 extend downwardly from each side of the upper portion 11 to encompass the upper arm of the 'U' of the U-clamp. An end stop 13 extends downwards from the inner end of the elongate body 11 to abut the inner end of the upper arm of the U-clamp when the tableware holder or tray holder 3 is in an outermost position or pulled fully outwards. This helps to ensure that the tableware holder or tray holder 3 cannot be accidentally pulled off the clamp when a user pulls the tray outwards from the table. The lower inner surface of the upper portion 11 of the elongate body comprises a plurality of locking member magnets 14 spaced along the length or depth of the elongate body inwards/outwards in relation to the edge of the table 100. As the connector 4 is moved inwards and outwards in use, the clamp 2 remains stationary, and the clamp magnets 10 and locking member magnets 14 interact to hold the locking member in a number of discrete positions as the tray holder 3 is pulled outwards. This provides a number of discrete positions for the tableware in use, and helps to ensure that when in use the tableware will stay in the required position rather than sliding backwards and forwards. It is to be appreciated that alternative locking members to magnets may be provided to lock the tray holder in a number of discrete positions relative to the clamp that is fastened on the edge of the table.

Tray holder/Tableware holder

The tableware holder/tray holder 3 in this embodiment comprises a generally flat body sized and shaped to receive a tray in use. The tableware holder/tray holder 3 is attached to the connector 4 via the lower surface of the tableware holder/tray holder 3 and the upper surface of the connector 4. This allows a user to bring their tableware to the table on a tray and then position the tray on the tableware holding means for use. The side, front and rear edges 15 of the tray holder 3 are raised. This helps to prevent the tray or other items from sliding off the tray holder. The upper surface of the tray holder 3 further has a number of rubber strips connected thereto across the width of the tableware holder/tray holder 3. This also helps to prevent the tray or other items from sliding off the tray holder.

The arrangement described above allows a user to place their tableware on the tableware holder/tray holder 3 once the adjustable tableware holder 1 is connected to the table 100, sit down with their chair distanced from the table, and then pull the tableware holder/tray holder 3 towards themselves where they are seated, rather than pull in their chair towards the table. This can be advantageous for the elderly or infirm when eating. The clamp 2 holds the adjustable tableware holder 1 securely on the table 50 so that the leverage force does not cause the tableware to fall off the edge of the table and dump into the lap of a user.

To assemble the clamp 2 and tableware holder/tray holder 3, the clamp is fitted over the edge of table and secured in position by the locking member 6. The inner end of the upper arm of the 'U' of the clamp is pushed between the lips 12 at the outer end of the connector 4 (towards a user in use, at the opposite end from the end stop 13). This outer end can be wider or funnelled to help with the guide process. The holder is then positioned at a desired location by means of the locking member magnets.

Referring now to Figures 7 to 20B of the accompanying drawings, a second embodiment of an adjustable tableware holder according to the present invention is illustrated. As shown in Figures 7 to 9, the invention comprises a tray or tableware holder 100, a framework 30 with locking means 60 and table attachment means 20. The table attachment means 20 is used to fixedly secure the framework 30 to a table 50. The tray or tableware holder 100 is slidably mounted with respect to the framework 30 and may be locked in one of a number of discrete positions by locking means 60.

The components of the second embodiment of the present invention will now be described in further detail.

Tray or Tableware Holder 100.

The tray holder or tableware holder 100, preferably being in the form of a moulded plastics component, comprises a rectangular tray-like component with three raised sides 102 surrounding a flat region 104, as shown in Figures 10, 11A and 11B. The intended front side of the tray holder/tableware holder (i.e. the side that will be adjacent to and face the user in use) is provided with a lower side 106 to allow for easier access to the contents of the tray or tableware holder in use. The rear raised side of the holder 100 is provided with an indent 108 with protrusions 108a for slidable engagement of fingers 62 of a locking member 60 (see Figures 11 A and 11 B). The lower edges of the rear side are also provide with two tabs 114 either side of the indent 108 (see Figure 14).

The lower edges of opposing sides of the holder 100 may be provided with a recess 110 to aid in the removal of and carrying the tray or tableware holder (see Figure 10). Additionally, the underside of each of these sides is provided with a longitduinal slot 112 extending along its length for receiving a corresponding guide rail 32 provided on the framework 30 (see below). Framework 30.

Figures 12A and 12B illustrate top and bottom views of the framework 30. The framework may be made of any suitable material, such as a metal or toughened plastics material. Preferably, the framework is a moulded component. It corresponds substantially in size and shape to the tray/tableware holder. The rear, central region of the upper surface is provided with a series of lateral slots or recesses 34 for mating with the fingers 62 of the locking member 60 and opposing sides of the framework have longitudinally extending guide rails 32 for mating with slots 112 in the tray holder.

Additionally, a series of parallel rims 36 extend from the rear to the front of the framework between which the tabs 114 of the holder may lie in the assembled device. The intended front corners of the framework are each provided with a U-shaped slot or recess 38 having a knob or protruberance 38a extrending upwardly therefrom, the purpose of which will be described in further detail below.

Figures 13 and 14 of the accompanying drawings show how the tray or tableware holder 100 is slidably mounted with respect to the framework 30 and may be locked in one of a number of discrete positions by locking means 60. The tray holder 100 is placed on to the framework so that the tabs 114 extend between the rims 36 and slots 112 engage with the guide rails 32. The locking member 60 is able to slide up and down with respect to the rear side of the holder 100. In the up position (see Figure 14), the fingers 62 of the member 60 do not engage with the slots of the framework 30 and the holder is free to slide along the guide rails with respect to the framework. Movement of the locking member downwardly causes it fingers 62 to engage with one or other of the slots 34 provided in the framework resulting in the holder being fixedly locked in position with respect to the framework (see Figure 13).

The tableware holding means 100 is detachable from the framework 30 but once extended over the table edge becomes captive and secure. In this respect, in this embodiment the tableware holding means and framework are configured to be connectable only in a specified orientation with respect to one another. Ideally, the two are connectable when the tableware holding means is located centrally above the framework, termed the "neutral position". Once connected, the tableware holding means may slide relative to the framework but can only be removed therefrom when it is slid back to the neutral position. The tableware holding means is only slidable over a predetermined maximum distance with respect to the framework.

Figures 15 and 16 illustrate one mechanism for providing such an arrangement. The opposing sides of the framework 30 are each provided with a guide rail, such as an inverted substantially L-shaped rail 82 in cross-section which is relieved of material towards the centre of the framework, i.e. forming a substantially l-shaped cross- section 84 at or towards the centre of each side. The opposing sides of the tableware holding means which lie over these sides of the framework in use are each provided with a lip to form a substantially L-shaped rail 88 which is also relieved of material to provide l-shaped profile 86 in regions corresponding to the L-shaped regions of the framework when the holder 100 is placed over the framework. In this manner, the tableware holding means must be orientated above the framework such that the L- and l-shaped profiles 82, 84 of the framework 30 line up with the complementary I- and L-shaped profiles 86, 88 of the tableware holding means. Movement of the tableware holding means relative to the framework then results in the holder being kept captive by the framework due to the complementary profiles no longer being in line with one another. Once the holder is slid back to the "neutral position", it is then able to be removed from the framework 30.

Table attachment means 20

Figures 17A to 19 B of the accompanying drawings illustrate the attachment means 20 for fixedly securing the framework (and hence, holder) to a table. For the sake of simplicity the table is omitted from these drawings.

The table attachment means 20 comprises a bracket 40 (see Fig. 17B), an actuator 70 (see Fig. 18B) and a vise member 76 which may be assembled together to form a clamping mechanism. Only one attachment is shown in Figures 17A to 18E but it is to be appreciated that generally two attachments will be provided at each side of the framework, as shown in Figures 19A and 19B.

The bracket 40 comprises two long first and second limbs extending substantially perpendicularly to each other and a short limb extending substantially parallel with the first limb. A hole or recess 46 is provided towards the free end of the first limb. Two smaller holes 42, 44 are also provided in the bracket, one 42 at the opposing end of the first limb and the other 44 in the third limb, substantially in line with the hole 42.

The actuator 70 comprises a threaded rod 72 and a handle or lever 74. A vise member 76 mates with the threaded rod through a hole 76b in the member and has a substantially flat horizontal surface 76a for engagement with the underside of a table (see Figures 18B-18D).

The first limb of each bracket 40 is received on the upper surface of the framework such that the knob 38a extends through the larger hole 46 at the free end of this limb. This results in the other end of this limb extending slightly beyond the front edge of the framework so that it can be placed around the edge of a table. The actuator, with vise member attached, is placed through the small holes 42, 44 of the bracket. The framework with table attachment means 20 can then be secured to a table by turning the handle 74 to move the vise member 76 upwardly to clamp the table. Once the device is secure, the handle can be pivotted inwardly over the first long limb of the bracket so that is lies flush with the framework.

The U-shaped recess or slot 38 forms a living hinge enabling the bracket and handle to be pushed inwardly. This enables the tableware or tray holder that is provided on the framework to cover the handle 74 in that the raised sides 102 of the holder overlie and surround the handle. This has the added benefit of making the device tamperproof in that once it is secured to a table it is difficult to gain access to the actuator which enables removal of the device from the table. This is illustrated by the cross-sectional view of Figure 20.

In this manner, once the device has been installed on a table, for example by a care assistant, it is not easily removed by the user. The tray/tableware holder is able to be placed over the framework in a neutral position and is then automatically secured to the framework by sliding movement of the tray. The tray can be moved to and secured in a series of positions relative to the table by locking and unlocking the locking member 60 and sliding the holder with respect to the framework which is fixed in position relative to the table by virtue of the table attachment means 20, as illustrated in Figures 21 A to 22B of the accompanying drawings. Once the holder is slid back to the neutral position, it may be disengaged from the framework and removed.

It is clear that alternative embodiments of the present invention may be provided for attachment of the framework to the table and to allow slidabie movement of a tray holder with respect thereto. For example, two U-shaped members and associated locking members as described in relation to first embodiment may be used to fix the framework to a table. Alternatively, the holder may be provided with two locking members that engage with a series of parallel slots provided along each side of the framework. It is to be appreciated that the locking member may be a screw fastener for tightening the holder with respect to the framework. Furthermore, the particular shape of the framework may also vary depending upon its intended application. For example, the front of the framework may include a recess to enable it to fit on to a circular table. Ideally, snap-fit covers are also provided over any moving and/or angular parts of the device.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention. Firstly it will be understood that any features described in relation to any particular embodiment may be featured in combinations with other embodiments.

With respect to the specification therefore, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention, with variation and implementation obvious and clear on the basis of either common general knowledge or of expert knowledge in the field concerned. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention as set out in the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. An adjustable tableware holder for a table, comprising:

a table attachment means configured for detachable connection to a table for fixedly securing an adjustable tableware holder to a table;

a tableware holding means configured to have an upper surface suitable for receiving at least one item of tableware thereon; and

a connector for connecting the table attachment means and tableware holding means, the connector being adapted to allow the tableware holding means to move relative to the table attachment means at least outwardly from the table to extend over the edge of the table.

2. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 1 wherein the tableware holding means is slidably connected to the table attachment means and further comprises a locking member to selectively position the tableware holding means with respect to the table attachment means and thereby the edge of the table.

3. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the table attachment means comprises a clamp configured to connect around the edge of a table.

4. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 3 wherein the clamp comprises a U-clamp provided with at least one fixing member configured to act substantially perpendicularly across the body of the U-clamp to hold the U-clamp securely in position on the edge of a table.

5. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 4 wherein the fixing member comprises an elongate body that extends through one side of the U-clamp, and an inner portion connected to an inner end of the elongate body within the U-clamp, the inner portion having an enlarged inner surface.

6. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5 wherein the connector comprises an elongate body attached to the tableware holding means, the elongate body being configured to connect with and move substantially horizontally along the clamp inwards and outwards from the edge of the table.

7. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 6 wherein the elongate body comprises an upper portion having an inner surface substantially sized with and extending parallel to an upper surface of the clamp, and a pair of lips extending downwards from each side of the elongate body to encompass the sides of the clamp.

8. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 6 or claim 7 further comprising an end stop extending downwards from the inner end of the elongate body to abut the clamp when the tray is in an outermost position.

9. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 8 wherein an upper surface of the clamp further comprises a plurality of clamp magnets spaced along the length of the clamp inwards/outwards in relation to the edge of a table to which the tray attachment is attached in use, and the lower surface of the locking member further comprises a plurality of locking member magnets spaced along the depth of the locking member inwards/outwards in relation to the edge of a table to which the tray attachment is attached in use, the clamp magnets and locking member magnets interacting as the locking member is moved inwards and outwards in use to hold the locking member in a number of discrete positions.

10. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the connector includes a framework, the framework being detachably connectable to the table attachment means and the tableware holding means.

11. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 10 wherein the framework and tableware holding means are provided with complementary slots and rails to provide a slidable connection therebetween.

12. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11 wherein the tableware holding means and framework are configured to be connectable only in a specified orientation with respect to one another.

13. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 12 wherein the tableware holding means is connectable to the framework when the tableware holding means is located centrally above the framework, termed the "neutral position" and once connected, the tableware holding means may slide relative to the framework but can only be removed therefrom when returned to the neutral position.

14. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 13 wherein the tableware holding means and framework are only slidable over a predetermined maximum distance with respect to each other.

15. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 13 wherein opposing sides of the framework are each provided with a guide rail comprising an inverted substantially L- shaped rail in cross-section which is relieved of material towards the centre of the framework, i.e. forming a substantially l-shaped cross-section at or towards the centre of each side and opposing sides of the tableware holding means are each provided with a lip to form a substantially L-shaped rail which is also relieved of material in regions corresponding to the L-shaped regions of the framework, or vice versa, whereby the tableware holding means is connectable to the framework only when the complementary L and l-shaped profiles of the framework and tableware holding means overlie one another.

16. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 15 wherein a locking member is provided between the framework and the tableware holding means to temporarily hold the tableware holding means in a fixed location relative to the framework.

17. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 16 wherein the locking member comprises at least one finger slidably mounted with respect to the tableware holding means for engagement and disengagement with one of a plurality of slots or recesses provided in the framework.

18. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 17 further comprising at least one living hinge provided in an intended front edge of the framework.

19. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 18 further comprising a protuberance extending upwardly from the living hinge.

20. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 19 wherein the table attachment means comprises a bracket, actuator and vise member for connecting the framework to an edge of a table.

21. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 20 when dependent from claim 19 wherein the bracket comprises two substantially perpendicular limbs, a first limb having a hole or recess therethrough., wherein the first limb is received on the living hinge of the framework with the protuberance extending into or through the hole or recess.

22. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 21 wherein the bracket further comprises a third limb extending substantially parallel with the first limb, substantially perpendicularly from the second limb, the first and third limbs having corresponding apertures for receiving the actuator therethrough.

23. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 22 wherein the actuator comprises a handle connected to a threaded rod for mating with the vise member.

24. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 23 when dependent from claim 21 wherein the handle is hingedly mounted with respect to the rod whereby, in the assembled configuration, the handle lies over the first limb.

25. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the tableware holding means comprises a tray holder configured to connect to the upper surface of the clamp or framework and being sized and shaped to receive a tray in use.

26. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in claim 25 when dependent from any of claims 20 to 24 wherein the tableware holding means at least partially surrounds the table attachment means.

27. An adjustable tableware holder as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 26 wherein the framework and tableware holding means are substantially the same length and width.

28. An adjustable tableware holder for a table substantially as herein described and with reference to Figures 1 to 6 or 7 to 22B of the accompanying drawings.