Abstract:
A portable workstation, in one embodiment, includes a base unit and a table. The base unit includes one or more vertical support members and a platform extending horizontally from the vertical support member. Support legs telescopically extend laterally to support the workstation in an upright position. The platform forms the top of the base unit in an upright position. The table is configured to extend from the base unit and includes a support leg. The table transitions between an extended position and a storage position. When the support legs are in the extended position, the table and support legs provide support to the base unit of the workstation, forming an integrated tripod system. Thus, the base unit may be compact and easily transported in a storage position; however, the platform and the table when extended may provide an ample work surface at a traditional working height.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/248,825 entitled “PORTABLE WORKSTATION” and filed on Oct. 12, 2005 for Joe Baughman which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/618,428 entitled “KITCHEN PACK” and filed on Oct. 13, 2004 for Joe Baughman, both of the above referenced applications are incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    This invention relates to portable work surfaces and more particularly relates to portable workstations that are lightweight and compact. 
         [0004]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0005]    Preparing food in a primitive environment can be a challenge for those people who normally prepare food in an organized kitchen. In an undeveloped area such as a campsite or lakeside, the user generally lacks a sturdy structure to organize kitchen items and to provide a sufficient working surface for preparing food and eating. Without a proper work surface, food can easily become soiled or contaminated and kitchen items can easily become excessively disorganized and unmanageable. In addition, packing utensils and cookware can also become a challenge, as many boxes or containers are typically required to pack a sufficient amount of cookware, cooking supplies, seasonings, pans, etc. Furthermore, the user may fail to pack all of the necessary provisions because of the difficult task of disemboweling a kitchen and then remembering what is needed and what has already been packed. 
         [0006]    To facilitate the packing process, as well as to provide a temporary preparation area, several versions of a “camp kitchen” have been introduced into the market. The camp kitchens known in the art typically include a folding storage cabinet and commodities typically found in a kitchen environment, such as tables, drawers, stoves, storage compartments, sinks and the like. These camp kitchen, however, are generally heavy, bulky, and difficult to transport because they are often made of wood, steel, or other heavy materials to provide economy for this type of construction and to hold drawers, organizers, and the contents while traveling. 
         [0007]    A common style of camp kitchen is a box style, which requires multiple rigid surfaces (top, bottom, sides) to maintain the container shape. The rigid surfaces of the container can only function in a limited way to provide work surfaces and other peripheral devices, such as tables, shelves, windscreens, etc. For example, the front of the box may function as a table, but since the rigid surface must hold the box together in a storage position, the rigid surface cannot fold or collapse for greater portability or to decrease the overall bulk. Thus, the size of the table is generally limited to the size of the box, which typically signifies providing a larger, bulkier box for sufficient work space. In a further example, the top or sides of the box may function as a windscreen; however, the rigid surfaces generally do not provide the lightest, most economical or most portable method of creating a windscreen. 
         [0008]    Furthermore, items stored in a box style camp kitchen are typically difficult to access during transportation. Usually, the user must open the entire box to access the drawers and/or contents inside the box. In addition, the camp kitchens are often transported in a different orientation than the selected set up orientation, which may hinder user access during transport. 
         [0009]    Typically, the camp kitchens require an additional stand that must be transported along with the camp kitchen in order to maintain the kitchen table(s) and/or surfaces at a useful working height. Because the camp kitchens must be stabilized from front to back, as well as side to side, the camp kitchens and the stands are inherently large and bulky, even though the stands may fold, scissor, etc. Bulky stands and bulky camp kitchens are usually difficult to transport and typically still provide limited work space. 
         [0010]    From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that a need exists for an apparatus that provides an ample working surface and is compact, lightweight and easily transportable. Beneficially, such an apparatus, system, and method would further enable the user to pack and organize items in an accessible storage compartment. The apparatus would further provide the working surface at an appropriate height for the user without requiring an additional stand. Similarly, such an apparatus would provide lateral stability on uneven surfaces. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0011]    The present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available portable workstations, particularly portable camp kitchens. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide a lightweight, compact, portable workstation that overcomes many or all of the above-discussed shortcomings in the art. 
         [0012]    The portable workstation, in one embodiment, includes a frame structure and a first table. The frame structure includes at least one vertical support member comprising substantially hollow tubing and at least two fins. A platform extends horizontally from the vertical support member and forms a top to the frame structure when the frame structure is positioned in an upright position. The first table comprises a support leg and is configured to extend from the frame structure and is configured to alternate between a first extended position and a storage position. When the table is in the extended position, the table provides support to the base unit of the workstation, forming an integrated tripod system. Thus, the base unit may be compact and easily transported in a storage position; however, the platform and the table when extended may provide an ample work surface at a traditional working height. The base unit may include a frame structure and may be transported on wheels or carried like a back pack in certain embodiments. 
         [0013]    The workstation, in one embodiment, further comprises a first support leg configured to telescopically extend laterally from the frame structure. The first support leg provides an additional lateral support for maintaining the apparatus in an upright position. In certain embodiments a second support leg is configured to nest with the first support leg, the second support leg is further configured to provide elevational support to the frame structure to maintain the frame structure a predetermined distance above the ground. 
         [0014]    In an embodiment the workstation further comprises at least one handle support and a handle with the at least one handle support slideably received within an additional vertical support member. The handle support is configured to telescopically extend from the additional vertical support member. 
         [0015]    In certain embodiments the workstation further comprises an additional handle support slideably received within an additional vertical support member and configured to telescopically extend for the additional vertical support member. The handle comprises a first shaft rotatably coupled to the at least one handle support and a second shaft rotatably coupled to the additional handle support. The first shaft and the second shaft are configured to rotate from an inward position to an outward position. A slideable sleeve is configured to detachably couple the first shaft and the second shaft. 
         [0016]    In an embodiment a bar is removeably attached to the at least one handle support and the additional handle support. The bar is configured to support a hanging bag. The hanging bag may hold spices, utensils or other items for use with the portable workstation. 
         [0017]    In certain embodiments a second table is configured to extend from the first table. The second table is configured to alternate between an extended position and a storage position. The second table provides additional workspace for a user using the portable workstation. 
         [0018]    In an embodiment the first table is coupled to the frame structure by a double hinge. The double hinge comprises a first pivot point disposed substantially above a second pivot point. In certain embodiments a workstation using a double hinge allows a longer table than a workstation using a single hinge. 
         [0019]    In one embodiment, the workstation includes a base unit comprising at least one vertical support member a first table and a first support leg. The first table is connected to the top of the base unit and is configured to alternate between an extended position and a storage position. The first support leg is configured to telescopically extend laterally from the frame structure to provide lateral support for maintaining the apparatus in an upright position. 
         [0020]    Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment. 
         [0021]    Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention. 
         [0022]    The features and advantages 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  
         [0023]    In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be 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: 
           [0024]      FIG. 1  is a front view illustrating one embodiment of the frame structure of a portable workstation in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0025]      FIG. 2A  is front view illustrating one embodiment of the inner and outer support legs in a nestled configuration in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0026]      FIG. 2B  is front view illustrating one embodiment of the inner and outer support legs in an extended configuration in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0027]      FIG. 2C  is top view illustrating one embodiment of the inner and outer support legs in an extended configuration in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0028]      FIG. 2D  is top view illustrating one embodiment of the inner and outer support legs in a nestled configuration in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0029]      FIG. 2E  is front view illustrating one embodiment of the inner and outer support legs in a partially extended configuration in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0030]      FIG. 2F  is front view illustrating one embodiment of the inner and outer support legs in a nestled configuration in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0031]      FIG. 2G  is a bottom view illustrating one embodiment of the inner and outer support legs in a partially extended configuration in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0032]      FIG. 2H  is a bottom view illustrating one embodiment of the inner and outer support legs in a nestled configuration in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0033]      FIG. 2I  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of the inner and outer support legs in a partially extended configuration with a knob supporting the outer leg in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0034]      FIG. 2J  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of an inner support leg in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0035]      FIG. 2K  is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a triangular support leg shaft in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0036]      FIG. 2L  is a front view illustrating one embodiment of a folding leg assembly in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0037]      FIG. 3  is a rear view illustrating one embodiment of the frame structure of a portable workstation in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0038]      FIG. 4A  is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of an axle support member extrusion in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0039]      FIG. 4B  is a profile view illustrated one embodiment of the axle support member extrusion in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0040]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a rear table hinge in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0041]      FIG. 6  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of a frame structure of a portable workstation in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0042]      FIG. 7  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of a frame structure of a portable workstation in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0043]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a side table hinge in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0044]      FIG. 9  is a rear view illustrating one embodiment of a frame structure with an extended handle in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0045]      FIG. 10  is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a vertical support member in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0046]      FIG. 11A  is a front view illustrating one embodiment of a handle disposed in an inward position in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0047]      FIG. 11B  is a front view illustrating one embodiment of the handle of  FIG. 11A  slid to one side over a handle shaft in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0048]      FIG. 11C  is a front view illustrating one embodiment of the handle of  FIG. 11A  and  FIG. 11B  with handle shafts rotated to outward position in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0049]      FIG. 12  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of a frame structure with a rear table support frame extended and a rear table support leg extended in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0050]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view illustrating one embodiment of a rear table support leg hinge in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0051]      FIG. 14  is a side view illustrating a frame structure with a side table attached to a side table support frame and a rear table attached to a rear table support frame in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0052]      FIG. 15  is a rear view illustrating one embodiment of two tables attached to a rear table support frame and two side tables attached to two side table support frames with a sink basin attached to one of the side tables in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0053]      FIG. 16  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of a double hinge apparatus for attaching a rear table in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0054]      FIG. 17  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of a portable workstation with a first table hingedly connected to a second table in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0055]      FIG. 18  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of a rear table extension slideably received in a rear table in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0056]      FIG. 19  is a front view illustrating one embodiment of a workstation with a container attached to a frame structure in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0057]      FIG. 20  is a front view illustrating one embodiment of a container with shelves disposed therein in accordance with the present invention. 
           [0058]      FIG. 21  is a front view illustrating one embodiment of a workstation with a stove support sleeve and a spice and utensil retaining bag in accordance with the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0059]    Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment. 
         [0060]    Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to give a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention. 
         [0061]      FIG. 1  depicts one embodiment of a portable workstation  100  in accordance with the present invention. The portable workstation  100 , as depicted, includes a frame structure  110  comprising, vertical support members  112 , a platform  114 , a bag attachment rod  115 , a handle  116 , additional vertical support members  118 , telescoping handle support members  120 , handle hinges  122 , handle shafts  124 , a slideable sleeve  126 , side table hinges  128 , side table support frames  130 , a rear table hinge  132 , a rear table support frame  134 , rear table support leg  136 , rear table support leg hinge  138 , axle support member  140 , inner support legs  142 , outer support legs  144 , support leg shaft  146  and a support leg tube  148 . The portable workstation  100  may include wheels  150  which may operate in association with handle  116  to facilitate transporting the portable workstation  100  similar to wheeled luggage. The wheels  150  may be attached to the frame structure  110  to mobilize the workstation  100  for easy transportation of stored items. 
         [0062]    The frame structure  110 , in the depicted embodiment, may remain in a substantially upright position while stationary and during transport. The inner support legs  142  provide support to the front of the frame structure  110 . The outer support legs  144  may be affixed to a telescoping support leg shaft  146 . While the illustrated embodiments depict two legs for each side of the frame structure  110 , one skilled in the art will recognize that in certain embodiments the apparatus may comprise a single stationary support leg. Additionally, in certain embodiments a single telescoping support leg may be disposed on each side of the frame structure and may be configured to laterally slide away from the frame structure  110  to provide lateral support to the frame structure. The support leg shaft  146  is slideably received within support leg tube such that the support leg shaft  146  and outer support leg  144  may be telescopically extended to the side of the frame structure  110  to provide lateral support to the frame structure  110 . A compression nut  152  is threadedly affixed to each end of the support leg tube  148  and configured to compress the support leg tube  148  around the support leg shaft  146  such that vertical movement of the support leg shaft  146  is restricted. Thus, when the compression nut  152  is tightened around the support leg tube  148 , solid lateral support is maintained for the frame structure  110 . 
         [0063]    In certain embodiments, such as the embodiments shown in  FIG. 2A  and  FIG. 2B , the inner support legs  142  and the outer support legs  144  comprise an “L” shaped structures when viewing the apparatus from above. Push buttons  154  may be configured such that outer support leg  144  can be locked in two positions. In the first position  202  shown in  FIG. 2A  the outer support leg  144  is nested with the inner support leg  142 . Push button  154  restricts lateral movement of the support leg shaft  146 . The outer support leg  144  may be laterally extended to the position shown in  FIG. 2B  by depressing the push button  154  and sliding the support leg shaft  146  out of the support leg tube  148 . In certain embodiments an additional push button  154  is be provided to lock the outer support leg  144  in a second position as shown in  FIG. 2B . In certain embodiments a stake hole  156  may be provided in the support legs through which a stake (not shown) may be driven to provide added stability. In the embodiments illustrated in  FIG. 2A  and  FIG. 2B  a compression nut  152  is positioned to provide solid lateral support to the support leg shaft  146 . 
         [0064]      FIG. 2C  illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the inner and outer support leg assembly  190  in which the support leg shaft  146  is slideably received within the support leg tube  148  such that the support leg shaft  146  can be withdrawn from the support leg tube  148  in the direction indicated by arrow  192 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the support leg shaft  146  can also be received within the support leg tube  148  in the direction of arrow  194  such that the inner support leg  142  and the outer support leg  144  nestle together as illustrated in  FIG. 2D . In certain embodiments the inner support leg  142  is slightly larger than the outer support leg  144  such that the outer support leg  144  nestles within the inner support leg  142 . When the inner support leg  142  is nestled with the outer support leg  144  both feet provide support to the frame structure  110  when the portable work station  100  is dropped on one support leg assembly  190 . In certain embodiments the inner support leg  142  is permanently affixed to the support leg tube  148  and provides the main elevational support to the frame structure  110 . In one embodiment the outer support leg  144  provides lateral support to the frame structure  110  to maintain the portable workstation  100  in an upright position. In use, stakes (not show) may be driven through stake hole  200  disposed within the inner support leg  142  and stake hole  202  disposed within the outer support leg  144  to hold the frame structure in one place. 
         [0065]    A push button  154  may be disposed on the top of support leg tube  148  and may operate to restrict lateral motion of the support leg shaft  146  at predetermined positions such as when the support leg shaft  146  is fully extended and/or when the support leg shaft  146  is fully inserted into support leg tube  148 . In certain embodiments additional push buttons  154  may be disposed along the length of support leg shaft  146  to provide a variety of locking positions for support leg shaft  146 . One skilled in the art will recognize that the push button  154  may operate on the front or back of support leg tube  148  rather than the top of the support leg tube  148 . Similarly, one skilled in the art will recognize that a plurality of push buttons  154  may be provided to add additional support to the support leg shaft  146 . 
         [0066]      FIG. 2E  and  FIG. 2F  illustrate a front view of one embodiment of the inner and outer support leg assembly  190 .  FIG. 2E  illustrates the inner and outer support leg assembly  190  in a partially extended position similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 2C .  FIG. 2F  illustrated the inner and outer support leg assembly  190  in a withdrawn position with the inner support leg  142  nestled with the outer support leg  144  similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 2D . In certain embodiments a stake hole  208  is disposed through the front surface of the outer support leg  144 . Similarly, in certain embodiments a stake hole  206  is disposed through the front surface of the inner support leg  142 . The stake hole  208  and the stake hole  206  may communicate with stake holes  202  and  200  respectively to allow a stake to be driven through both stake holes to keep the portable workstation  100  in place. 
         [0067]      FIG. 2G  illustrates a bottom view of an inner support leg  142  and an outer support leg  144  in an extended position according to one embodiment of the current invention. In certain embodiments the outer support leg  144  is configured to nest within the inner support leg  142  as shown in  FIG. 2H . One skilled in the art will recognize that in certain embodiments, not shown, the inner support leg  142  may be configured to nest within the outer support leg  144 . Because one of the support legs  142  or  144  nests within the other support leg, one of the support legs will be disposed at a higher position than the other support leg as shown in  FIG. 2I . In  FIG. 2I  the outer support leg  144  is disposed on a higher plane than the inner support leg  142 . To compensate for the difference in height a knob  210  may be disposed within the outer support leg  144 . A notch  212  may be disposed in the inner support leg  142  to accommodate the knob  210  when the outer support leg  144  is nested within the inner support leg  142 . On skilled in the art will recognize that the opposite configuration may be arranged without departing from the scope of the current invention. 
         [0068]    In certain embodiments a cam device  214  may be configured to lock the support leg shaft  146  in a lateral position relative the support leg tube  148 . Thus, where a cam device  214  is used, the support leg shaft  146  may be micro adjusted to an infinite number of lateral locations with respect to the support leg tube  148 . 
         [0069]      FIG. 2J  illustrates a side view of an inner support leg  142  according to one embodiment of the current invention. In certain embodiments the inner support leg  142  is attached to the vertical support members  112  of the frame structure  110  by means of a plurality of screws  220 . As discussed above with reference to  FIGS. 2C-2F , in certain embodiments a stake  222  may be driven through stake holes  206  and  200  in the inner support leg  142  to secure the portable work station  100  to the ground. To reduce weight a plurality of holes  222  may be disposed within the inner support leg  142 . 
         [0070]    In certain embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 2J , the support leg tube  148  may be triangular. The support leg shaft  146  may likewise be triangular such as in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 2K . A triangular support leg shaft  146 , when inserted into a triangular support leg tube  148  will ensure that the outer support leg  144  is aligned with the inner support leg  142 . On skilled in the art will recognize that that the support leg shaft  146  and the support leg tube  148  may comprise other profile shapes which will maintain the outer support leg  144  in alignment with the inner support leg  142 . 
         [0071]    In one embodiment, such as the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 2L , the outer support legs  144  are attached to a support wing  230 . The support wing  230  is configured to pivot about the inner support legs  142  in the direction indicated by arrow  232  such that the support wing  230  may be positioned in a first closed position with the support wing  230  lying flat against a front leg support member  234  and a second open position with the support wing  230  extended away from the front leg support member  234 . In one embodiment the support wing  230  may comprise an inner support wing section  236  and an outer support wing section  238 . A pivot mechanism  240  may be disposed between the inner support wing section  236  and the outer support wing section  238  such that the outer support wing section  238  can pivot in the direction indicated by arrow  242  to lie flat against the inner support wing section  236 . The entire support wing  230  may then pivot around the inner support leg  142  in the direction indicated by arrow  244  to lie flat against the front leg support member  234 . Thus, in certain embodiments the outer support leg  144  is configured to pivot around the inner support leg  142  to extend laterally from the frame structure  110  to provide lateral support for maintaining the portable workstation  100  in an upright position. While the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 2L  shows a different left and right support wing structure, one skilled in the art will recognize that either support wing structure may be utilized for both support wings. 
         [0072]    Referring again to  FIG. 1 , in certain embodiments, an axle support member  140  may be connected to vertical support members  112  at the bottom of the frame structure  110 . The axle support member  140  spaces the bottom of the vertical support members  112  a predetermined distance apart. The axle support member may be attached to a fin  158  disposed on the vertical support member  112  using rivets, a nut and bolt, a self tapping screw or other fastening devices as is known in the art. In certain embodiments the axle support member  140  may be welded to the fin  158 . The axle support member is further described below in reference to  FIG. 4A  and  FIG. 4B . A rear table hinge  132  provides support to the top of the vertical support members  112  and spaces the top of the vertical support members  112  substantially the same distance apart as the bottom of the vertical support members  112 . The rear table hinge  132  is described in further detail below in reference to  FIG. 5 . The rear table hinge  132  may be attached to the fin  158  using rivets, a nut and bolt, a self tapping screw or other fastening devices as is known in the art. In certain embodiments the rear table hinge  132  may be welded to the fin  158 . 
         [0073]    A rear table support frame  134  is attached to the rear table hinge  132  such that the rear table support frame  134  may pivot between a plurality of positions including an extended position in which the rear table support frame  134  extends at a ninety degree angle in relation to the frame structure  110  and a storage position in which the rear table support frame  134  is disposed parallel to the frame structure  110 . A rear table hinge locking pin hole  160  may be disposed in the rear table hinge  132 . A locking pin (not shown) may be removeably positioned within a rear table hinge locking pin hole  160  to lock the rear table support frame  134  in the extended position. One skilled in the art will recognize that in certain situations, such as where the portable workstation  100  is place on uneven ground, it may be desirable to remove the rear table to achieve a stable footing. Therefore, in certain embodiments the rear table support frame  134  may be removeably attached to the frame structure  110  such that the rear table (described in more detail with reference to  FIG. 15  below) as well as the rear table support frame  134  may be removed from the frame structure for transport or storage or to achieve a stable footing for the frame structure  110 . 
         [0074]    A rear table support leg  136  is pivotably attached to the rear table support frame  134  by a rear table support leg hinge  138 . The rear table support leg  136  may pivot between a plurality of positions including an extended position in which the rear table support leg  136  is disposed in a ninety degree angle in relation to the rear table support frame  134 . A locking pin (not shown) may be removeably positioned within a rear table support leg hinge locking pin hole  162  to lock the rear table support leg in an extended position. 
         [0075]    The rear table support leg  136  may comprise a lower rear table support leg shaft  164  slideably received within an upper rear table support leg tube  166 . The lower rear table support leg shaft  164  may be connected to a “U” shaped rear table foot  172  which provides two contact points with the ground when the rear table support leg  136  is extended. In other embodiments the rear table support leg shaft  164  may extend all the way to the ground when the rear table support leg  136  is extended. In certain embodiments a compression nut  168  may be threadedly disposed on the upper rear table support leg tube  166  and configured to compress the upper rear table support leg tube  166  around the lower rear table support leg shaft  164  such that movement of the lower rear table support leg shaft  164  is restricted. A push button  170  may be disposed on the lower rear table support leg shaft  164 , the push button is configured to restrict the lower rear table support leg shaft  164  from sliding in or out of the upper rear table support leg tube  166  without depressing the push button  170 . 
         [0076]    Side table support frames  130  are pivotably attached to the frame structure  110  by side table hinges  128  which allow the side table support frames  130  to be positioned in a plurality of positions including a first extended position  178  in which the side table support frames  130  are extended ninety degrees in relation to the vertical support members  112 . In a second storage position  180  the side table support frame may be positioned adjacent to and parallel with the vertical support members  112 . The side table hinges  128  are attached to front fins  174  on the vertical support vertical support members  112 . A strap hinge  176  may be attached to the side table support frame  130  at one end and a vertical support member  112  at the other end. Thus, when the side table support frame  130  is placed in the first extended position  178 , the strap hinge  176  locks the side table support frame  130  in a horizontal plane. When the side table frames are placed in the second storage position  180 , the strap hinge  176  folds in on itself to allow the side table support frame to lie parallel to the vertical support members  112 . 
         [0077]    A platform  114  may extend horizontally from vertical support members  112  to form a top to the frame structure  110  when the frame structure is placed in an upright position. The platform  114  may comprise a metallic or heat resistant material such that a stove (not pictured) may be placed on the platform  114 . The platform may be attached to fins  158  or front fin  174  or both. 
         [0078]    As further described below, a handle  116  may be telescopically connected to the main frame structure  110  by additional vertical support members  118  slideably received within vertical support members  112 . The handle  116  may cover a slideable sleeve  126  configured to slide back and forth on handle shafts  124 . Handle shafts  124  may be pivotably connected to telescoping handle support members  120  by handle hinges  122 . The handle  116  may comprise foam or other soft material for comfort when transporting the portable workstation  100 . 
         [0079]      FIG. 3  illustrates a rear view of the frame structure  110  of the portable workstation  100 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 3 , both side table support frames  130  are placed in the second storage position  180  such that the side table support frames  130  are parallel to the vertical support members  112 . To place the side table support frames  130  in the second storage position  180 , strap hinges  176  are folded in on themselves. 
         [0080]    In certain embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 4A , the axle support member  140  may comprise a hollow void  402  and a flat portion  404 . Referring again to  FIG. 3 , an axle  302  may run through the hollow void  402  in axle support member  140 . The axle support member  140  may be connected to the vertical support members  112  by rivets  304 . In certain embodiments the axle support member  140  may be welded to the vertical support members  112  or may be attached by other suitable means as is known to one skilled in the art. The axle support member  140  may comprise a material extruded in substantially the form shown in  FIG. 4A . A cross section of the axle support member  140  is shown in  FIG. 4B . One skilled in the art will recognize that the extrusions described herein may comprise one or more of a metal, plastic or composite material. 
         [0081]      FIG. 5  illustrates one embodiment of rear table hinge  132  in which the rear table hinge  132  comprises a vertical support member mounting portion  502  and a rear table frame structure mounting portion  504 . The two portions of the rear table hinge  132  may comprise a material extruded substantially in the form shown in  FIG. 4A  and the cross section shown in  FIG. 4B . In certain embodiments the vertical support member mounting portion  502  and the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  are constructed in the same manner as the axle support member  140 . Thus, the same extruded material may be used to form the axle support member  140 , the vertical support member mounting portion  502  and the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  of the rear table hinge  132 . This eliminates the necessity of multiple extrusions. 
         [0082]    To form the vertical support member mounting portion  502  of the rear table hinge  132  notches  506  are removed from an extrusion such as the extrusion used as the axle support member illustrated in  FIG. 4A  leaving hinge lobes  508 . To form the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  of the rear table hinge  132  notch  510  is removed from an extrusion such as the extrusion used as the axle support member illustrated in  FIG. 4A  leaving hinge lobes  512 . The notches  506  in the vertical support member mounting portion  502  of the rear table hinge  132  are slightly larger than the hinge lobes  512  of the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  of the rear table hinge  132 . The notch  510  of the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  of the rear table hinge  132  is slightly larger than the middle hinge lobe  508 b of the vertical support member mounting portion  502  of the rear table hinge  132 . Thus, the vertical support member mounting portion  502  may be placed in a mating relationship with the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504 . When the vertical support member mounting portion  502  and the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  are aligned, hollow voids  514  on the vertical support member mounting portion  502  align with hollow voids  516  on the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504 . When hollow voids  514  are aligned with hollow voids  516 , a hinge shaft  518  may be positioned within the hollow voids. In this manner, the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  of the rear table hinge  132  pivots around the hinge shaft  518 . Because the rear table support frame  134  is attached to the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  of the rear table hinge  132 , the rear table support frame  134  can pivot between an extended position in which the rear table support frame  134  is extended ninety degrees in relation to the vertical support members  112  and a storage position in which the rear table support frame  134  lies parallel and adjacent to the vertical support members  112 . 
         [0083]      FIG. 6  and  FIG. 7  illustrate a right side view and a left side view of the frame structure  110  respectively. In certain embodiments the right side view shown  FIG. 6  and the left side view shown in  FIG. 7  are substantially mirror images. Inner support legs  142  are connected to the fin  174  on the lower support leg braces  602 . The lower support leg braces  602  may be connected to the fin  174  on the vertical support members  112  by rivets  608  near the bottom of the vertical support members  112 . In certain embodiments the inner support legs  142  and the lower support leg braces  602  comprise a single unitary structure. In the embodiments shown in  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 7  the inner support legs  142  and the lower support leg braces  602  are individually formed and connected to each other by fastening means such as welding, riveting, screwing or other means which are well known in the art. To reduce the overall weight of the portable workstation frame structure  110 , holes  604  may be constructed in the lower support leg brace  602 . Similarly, to reduce weight of the portable workstation frame structure  110 , holes  606  may be constructed in the outer support legs  606 . Additional holes (not shown) may be constructed in inner support legs  142 . 
         [0084]    The embodiments illustrated in  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 7  show the rear table support frame  134  in the storage position  610 . The rear table support frame  134  is connected to the vertical support members  112  by rear table hinge  132  and configured to pivot between a plurality of positions as described above with respect to  FIG. 5 . 
         [0085]    Side table support frames  130  are connected to side table hinges  128  which are in turn connected to both the platform  114  and a fin  174  on the vertical support members  112 . As described in further detail in relation to  FIG. 8 , the side table hinges  128  may comprise an upper hinge portion  612  and a lower hinge portion  614 . The side table support frame  130  is connected to the lower hinge portion  614 . Bolts  616  may be disposed through the upper hinge portion  612  and the platform  114  and connected to the bag attachment rod  115  to hold the bag attachment rod  115  in position. 
         [0086]    As described in greater detail with relation to  FIGS. 11A-11C , handle hinges  122  comprise a front plate  618  and a rear plate  620  substantially shaped in an “L” shape. Pins, rivets or bolts  622  may be disposed through the front plates  618 , the rear plates  620  and the handle supports  120  or the handle shafts  124  to allow the handle shafts  124  to pivot in relation to the handle supports  120 . 
         [0087]      FIG. 8  illustrates one embodiment of the upper hinge portion  612  and lower hinge portion  614  of side table hinges  128 . The upper portion  612  of side table hinge  128  may be attached to the vertical support member  112  such that the upper portion  612  of the side table hinge  128  does not move in relation to the vertical support member  112 . The upper portion  612  and the lower portion of the side table hinge  128  may comprise an extruded material shaped in substantially the same form as the axle support member  140  illustrated in  FIG. 4A  and  FIG. 4B . Thus the same extrusions may be used for the axle support member  140 , the vertical support member mounting portion  502  of the rear table hinge  132 , the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  of the rear table hinge  132 , the upper hinge portion  612  of the side table hinge  128  and the lower hinge portion  614  of the side table hinge  128 . In this manner the number of extrusions may be limited allowing for large quantities of the single extrusion material to be a purchased at quantity discounts. As discussed above with reference to the rear table support hinge  132 , the extrusion comprising side table hinge  128  may comprise one or more of a metal, plastic or composite material. 
         [0088]    A notch  802  is removed from the upper hinge portion  612  of the side table hinge  128 . The lower hinge portion  614  of the side table hinge  128  is slightly narrower than the notch  802  in the upper hinge portion  612 . Thus, the void  804  in the lower hinge portion  614  may be aligned with the voids  806  in the upper hinge portion  612 . A hinge shaft  808  is disposed through void  804  and voids  806  allowing the lower hinge portion  614  to pivot in relation to the upper hinge portion  612 . 
         [0089]      FIG. 9  illustrates an embodiment in which the additional vertical support members  118  are fully extended from within vertical support members  112 . As illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the vertical support members  112  comprise a hollow tube  1002  with a plurality of fins  158  and  174  disposed thereon. In certain embodiments the vertical support members  112  may comprise an extrusion comprising one or more of a metal, plastic or composite material. The additional vertical support members  118  comprise a hollow tube configured to slide within the hollow void  1004  in the vertical support member  118 . When the additional vertical support members  118  are fully extended as shown in  FIG. 9 , push buttons  902  lock the additional vertical support members  118  in the extended position. 
         [0090]    Handle support members  120  are slideably received within the additional vertical support members  118 . When the handle support members  120  are fully extended as shown in  FIG. 9 , push buttons  904  lock the handle support members  120  in the extended position. Additional push buttons  906  may be provided to lock the handle support members  120  in a retracted position with the handle support members  120  fully inserted into the additional vertical support members  180 . Holes  908  disposed in the side of vertical support members  112  may be configure to receive push buttons  902  and thereby lock the additional vertical support members  118  in a retracted position when the additional vertical support members  118  are fully inserted into vertical support members  112 . Thus, when the handle support members  120  are fully inserted into the additional vertical support members  118  and the additional vertical support members  118  are fully inserted into the vertical support members  112 , the push buttons  906  and push buttons  902  lock the handle  116  in a retracted storage or transport position. By depressing the push buttons  906  and push buttons  902  the additional vertical support members  118  and the handle support members  120  and thus the handle  116  may be extended to the position shown in  FIG. 9 . 
         [0091]      FIGS. 11A  through  FIG. 11C  illustrate one embodiment of the current invention in which the handle  116  is configured to allow handle shafts  124  to pivot one hundred and eighty degrees around handle hinges  122 . In  FIG. 11A  push button  1102  is depressed thereby allowing the slideable sleeve  126  to slide in the direction indicated by the arrow. When the slideable sleeve  126  reaches the position shown in  FIG. 11B  push button  1102  locks the slideable sleeve  126  in the position shown in  FIG. 11B  thereby releasing handle shafts  124 . Once the handle shafts  124  are released the handle shafts  124  may pivot around pivot point  1104  which may comprise a pin, bolt, rivet or other shaft as is known in the art. Thus, the handle shafts  124  may rotate from the storage or transport positions shown in  FIGS. 11A and 11B  to the extended positions shown in  FIG. 11C . In the extended positions shown in  FIG. 11C  the handle shafts  124  may operate to provide a hanging bar for lanterns  1106  or other camping items. 
         [0092]      FIG. 12  illustrates an embodiment in which the rear table support frame  134  is pivotably attached to rear table support leg  136  by rear table support leg hinge  138 . A strap hinge  1202  may be configured to lock the rear table support frame  134  in an extended position. Another strap hinge  1204  may be configured to lock the rear table support leg  136  in the extended support position shown if  FIG. 12 . The rear table support leg hinge  138  may be constructed in substantially the manner as shown in  FIG. 13 . The rear table leg upper hinge portion  1302  and the rear table leg lower hinge portion  1304  may be constructed of the same extrusions used in axle support member  140 , the vertical support member mounting portion  502  of the rear table hinge  132 , the rear table frame structure mounting portion  504  of the rear table hinge  132 , the upper hinge portion  612  of the side table hinge  128  and the lower hinge portion  614  of the side table hinge  128 . Thus, the number of extrusions necessary to construct the portable workstation  100  may be limited. Again, as discussed above the extrusions may comprise one or more of a metal, plastic or composite material. As with the other hinges, a notch  1306  may be formed in the rear leg upper hinge portion  1302 . The notch  1306  may be of such a size as to receive the rear leg lower hinge portion  1304  and align hollow voids  1308  on the rear leg upper hinge portion  1302  with the hollow void  1310  on the rear leg lower hinge portion  1304 . Hinge shaft  1312  may be inserted into hollow voids  1308  and hollow void  1310 . In this fashion, the rear table support leg  136  may pivot in relation to the rear table support frame  134 . Rear table locking pin hole  162  may align with a hole on the hinge shaft  1312  when the rear table support leg  136  is in a ninety degree angle in relation to the rear table support frame  134 . A pin (not shown) may lock the rear table support leg  136  in a ninety degree angle in relation to the rear table support frame  134 . One skilled in the art will recognize that this locking system may be used for each hinge mechanism discussed herein. 
         [0093]    The rear table support leg  136  may comprise an upper tube  1206  slideably received within a lower tube  1208 . A pin  1210  may be configured to lock the lower portion  1208  in an extended position such as is shown in  FIG. 12 . The upper tube  1206  and the lower tube  1208  may have a triangular profile to discourage the lower tube  1208  from rotating in relation to the upper tube  1206 . One skilled in the art will recognize that other profiles may be used to discourage the rotation of the lower tube  1208  in relation to the upper tube  1206 . In certain embodiments a compression nut  1212  is disposed on the upper tube to remove play between the upper tube  1206  and the lower tube  1208 . 
         [0094]      FIG. 14  illustrates an embodiment of the current invention in which a table  1402  with a sink cutout  1404  is mounted on a side table support frame  130 . In certain embodiments tables  1406  may be utilized which do not contain a sink cutout. Also illustrated in  FIG. 14  is an embodiment in which a table  1406  may be connected to the rear table support frame. Attachment slots  1408  may disposed around the periphery of the table  1402  or table  1404 . 
         [0095]      FIG. 15  illustrates a rear view of one embodiment of the current invention in which two tables  1406  are disposed side by side on rear table support frame  134 . In certain embodiments, a single rear table may cover the rear table support frame  134 . A removable sink basin  1502  may be disposed in sink cutout  1404 . In certain embodiments the sink basin  1502  may comprise a collapsible material such that the sink basin may be folded for storage or transport. In certain embodiments side tables  1402  or  1606  as well as side table support frames  120  may be removable for transport or storage. 
         [0096]      FIG. 16  illustrates one embodiment of the current invention in which an extended rear table support frame  1602  is lifted to a higher position by a rear table support frame extension  1604 . In this embodiment a first hinge  1606  pivotably attaches the rear table support frame extension  1604  to the vertical support members  112 . A second hinge  1608  pivotably attaches the rear table support frame extension  1604  to the extended rear table support frame  1602 . The rear table support frame length is dictated by the height above the ground at which the rear table support frame. By lifting the rear table support frame higher above the ground, a longer rear table may be incorporated into the portable workstation  100 . One skilled in the art will recognize that similar double hinge mechanisms may be utilized to achieve longer side tables. 
         [0097]    In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 17  a first rear table section  1702  is pivotably attached to vertical support member  112  by a first hinge  1704 . A second hinge  1706  attaches a second rear table section  1708 . Thus, when fully extended, the rear table length may comprise the length of the first rear table section  1702  plus the length of the second rear table section  1708 . One skilled in the art will recognize that in certain embodiments a rear table leg support, such as those described above, may be pivotably attached to the first rear table section  1702 , the second rear table section  1708  or both to provide additional support to the portable workstation  100 . In one embodiment the rear first rear table section  1702  may be removable such that the first rear able section  1702  and the second rear table section  1708  are temporarily attached to the frame structure for transit, then removed, folded out, and reattached to the frame structure  110  for usage. 
         [0098]      FIG. 18  illustrates an embodiment in which a sliding rear table extension  1802  is slideably received within an orifice in the rear table  1804 . The rear table  1804  may be attached to the frame structure  110  by means of a rear table support frame  1806  in substantially the same manner as described above. The sliding rear table extension  1802  may be configured to slide in the directions indicated by arrow  1808  from a stored position in which the sliding rear table extension is completely disposed within the orifice in rear table  1804  to an extended position in which the sliding rear table extension  1802  is extended to provide additional table space. The dimensions of the rear table  1804  may be sided to accommodate the sliding rear table extension  1802 . 
         [0099]    In certain embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 19 , a container  1902  may be attached to the frame structure  110 . In certain embodiments the container  1902  comprises a fabric bag attached to the bag attachment rod  115 . In other embodiments the container  1902  may comprise a rigid material such as an injection molded plastic. A zipper  1904  may operated to retain items stored within the container  1902 . The zipper  1904  may substantially circumvent the container except for the bottom portion  1906  of the container. As illustrated in  FIG. 20 , in certain embodiments a plurality of shelves  2002  may be disposed within the container  1902 . Thus, when the portable workstation  100  is in the upright position items may be stored on the shelves  2002 . 
         [0100]      FIG. 21  illustrates an embodiment in which a stove support sleeve  2102  is attached to the front of the container  1902 . The stove support sleeve  2102  may comprise a fabric sleeve sewn to the bottom  1906  of the container  1902 . A plurality of straps  2104  may connect the top and sides of the stove support sleeve  2102  to the container  1902 . In certain embodiments the straps  2104  may comprise a buckle, camming mechanism or other securing means  2106  to tighten the straps  2104  around a stove (not illustrated). 
         [0101]    A bar  2108  may be removably disposed between handle supports  120 . The bar  2108  may be inserted into holes  2110  preconfigured to receive the bar  2108  a predetermined distance above the platform  114  when the additional vertical support members  118  and handle support members  120  are fully extended. A spice and utensil retaining bag  2112  may be hung from the bar  2108  by retaining rings  2114  attached to the spice and utensil retaining bag  2112 . To hang the spice and utensil retaining bag  2112  from the bar  2108 , the bar  2108  is inserted through retaining rings  2114 . The bar  2108  is then inserted into holes  2110  disposed in the handle supports  120 . Straps  2116  are tightened around handle supports  120  pulling the handle supports  120  together to retain the bar  2108 . In certain embodiments the spice and utensil retaining bag  2112  may comprise a plurality of pockets  2118  for organizing spices, utensils or other items.