Tray table apparatus

A tray table apparatus including a furniture support structure having a storage compartment, a tray table support assembly and a tray table coupled to the tray table. The tray table and the tray table support assembly are alterable between a first configuration having a first stowed position and a first deployed state and a second configuration having a second stowed position and a second deployed state. In the first and second stowed positions, the tray table and tray table support assembly are at least partially disposed within the storage compartment. In the first deployed state, the tray table is outside of the storage compartment and extends from a first side of the furniture support structure. In the second deployed state, the tray table is outside of the storage compartment and extends from a second side of the furniture support structure.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the present invention relates to tray tables, such as tray tables which may extend out over a bed for use as an in-bed table and may retract when not being used.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Tray tables for use in the bed are common, and for people who choose Or need to eat, read, or work in bed, having a bedside tray table that extends out over the bed when needed and stows out of the way is an indispensable convenience. Such stowable tray tables are known in the art, however they often are attached to limitations that turn their use into a frustrating convenience. For example, some stowable tray tables have too many degrees of freedom, such as is seen in the tray table disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 1,220,578, as all the degrees of freedom make the tray table too easily bumped out of the position in which it is set. Others have more limited degrees of freedom, but some of those degrees of freedom are nut easy to use for a person who is lying in the bed and needs to adjust the position of the bed tray, such as the tray table disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,054,122.

For a person who is lying in bed, having a tray table with limited degrees of freedom is acceptable when the degrees of freedom provided make the tray table easy to use for a person lying, in the bed and at the same time provide a sufficiently stable platform which may be used and not too easily bumped out of position. It is therefore desirable that a stowable tray table for use in the bed meet a balance between usability and stability. At the same time, another desirable feature for some stowable tray tables is that they can be stowed entirely out of sight when not in use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed toward a tray table apparatus which includes a tray table which is movable between a stowed position to a deployed position. When not in use, the tray table may be stowed out of the way in the stowed position. The stowable tray table is made to be particularly easy to use by a person lying in a bed. When in use, the tray table provides adjustment mechanisms by which a person may easily adjust at least two degrees of freedom: the height of the tray table above another surface, such as a bed, and the lateral position of the tray table between, such as between the head and foot of a bed.

In a first separate aspect of the present invention, a tray table apparatus includes: a tray table; and a tray table support assembly coupled to the tray table, the tray table and the tray table support assembly configured to transition between a stowed position and a deployed position. The tray table support assembly includes: a support shelf; a support arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the support shelf so as to be pivotable about a first pivot axis and a second end, the tray table pivotably coupled to the second end of the support arm so as to be pivotable about a tray table pivot axis; and an adjustable pivot stop positioned to limit pivot movement of the support arm about the first pivot axis in the deployed position, such that a selected adjustment position of the adjustable pivot stop determines an angle of inclination formed between the support arm and the support shelf.

In a second separate aspect of the present invention, a tray table apparatus includes: a tray table; and a tray table support assembly coupled to the tray table, the tray table and the tray table support assembly configured to transition between a stowed position and a deployed position. The tray table support assembly includes: a support shelf; and a support arm, the support arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the support shelf so as to be pivotable about a first pivot axis and a second end, the tray table pivotably coupled to the second end of the support arm so as to be pivotable about a tray table pivot axis and translatable, relative to the support arm, in a direction parallel to the tray table pivot axis.

In a third separate aspect of the present invention, a tray table apparatus includes: a tray table having a first end and a second end; and a tray table support assembly coupled to the tray table, the tray table and the tray table support assembly being configured to transition between a stowed position and a deployed position. The tray table support assembly includes: a support shelf:, a support arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the support shelf so as to be pivotable about a first pivot axis and a second end, the first end of the tray table pivotably coupled to the second end of the support arm so as to be pivotable about a tray table pivot axis; and a support leg pivotably coupled to the tray table adjacent the second end of the tray table, the support leg configured to be adjustable in length.

In a fourth separate aspect of the present invention, a tray table apparatus includes: a support structure; a tray table; and a tray table support assembly coupled to the tray table and mounted to the support structure, the tray table and the tray table support assembly configured to transition between a stowed position and a deployed position. The tray table support assembly includes: a support shelf having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; and a support arm having a first end and a second end, the tray table pivotably coupled to the second end of the support arm so as to be pivotable about a tray table pivot axis. The support arm is alterable between: (1) a first state in, which the first end of the support arm is pivotably coupled to the support shelf so as to be pivotable about a first pivot axis between a first folded position in which the support arm lies atop the support shelf and a first unfolded position in which the support arm extends in a first inclined orientation such that the second end of the support arm is located laterally beyond the first edge of the support shelf; and (2) a second state in which the first end of the support arm is pivotably coupled to the support shelf so as to be pivotable about a second pivot axis between a second folded position in which the support arm lies atop the support shelf and a second unfolded position in which the support arm extends in a second inclined orientation such that the second end of the support arm is located laterally beyond the second edge of the support shelf.

In a fifth separate aspect of the present invention, a tray table apparatus includes: a tray table having a first end and a second end; a telescoping leg pivotably affixed adjacent the second end of the tray table; a handle affixed to the second end of the tray table; and a tray table support assembly coupled to the tray table, the tray table and the tray table support assembly configured to transition between a stowed position and a deployed position. The tray table support assembly includes: a support shelf having a lateral centerline, a first pivot axis, and a second pivot axis, with the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis being symmetrical to each other with respect to the lateral centerline; a support arm including at least one first pivot member pivotably coupled to the support shelf along one of the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis, and a second pivot member pivotably coupled adjacent to the first end of the tray table; an adjustable pivot stop positioned to limit pivot movement of the support arm with respect to the support shelf in the deployed position, such that an adjustment position of the adjustable pivot stop determines a height of the tray table in the deployed position; a pivot block pivotably coupling the second pivot member of the support arm to the tray table, wherein the pivot block is configured to be slidable along a longitudinal axis of the second pivot member; and a support leg pivotably coupled to the tray table adjacent the second end, the support leg being configured to be adjustable in length.

In a sixth separate aspect of the present invention, a tray table apparatus includes: a furniture support structure having a storage compartment; and a tray table support assembly coupled to a tray table and to the furniture support structure, the tray table and the tray table support assembly alterable between: (1) a first configuration in which the tray table and the tray table support assembly can be transitioned between: (a) a first stowed position in which the tray table and the tray table support assembly are at least partially disposed within the storage compartment, and (b) a first deployed state in which the tray table is outside of the storage compartment and extends from a first side of the furniture support structure so that one or more articles can be supported by the tray table; and (2) a second configuration in which the tray table and the tray table support assembly can be transitioned between: (a) a second stowed position in which the tray table and the tray table support assembly are at least partially disposed within the storage compartment, and (b) a second deployed state in which the tray table is outside of the storage compartment and extends from a second side of the furniture support structure so that one or more articles can be supported by the tray table, the second side being opposite the first side.

In a seventh separate aspect of the present invention, a tray table apparatus includes: a furniture support structure having a storage compartment; and a tray table support assembly coupled to a tray table and to the furniture support structure, the tray table and the tray table support assembly alterable between: (1) a stowed position in which the tray table and the tray table support assembly are at least partially disposed within the storage compartment; (2) a first deployed state in which the tray table is outside of the storage compartment and extends from a first side of the furniture support structure so that one or more articles can be supported by the tray table; and (3) a second deployed state in which the tray table is outside of the storage compartment and extends from a second side of the furniture support structure so that one or more articles can be supported by the tray table, the second side being opposite the first side.

Accordingly, an improved tray table apparatus having a stowable tray table is disclosed. Advantages of the improvements will be apparent from the drawings and the description of the preferred embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used herein, the term “night table” refers to any furniture that may be placed and/or used next to a bed. By way of example, a night table may be a free-standing piece of furniture having one or more storage compartments, such as a chest of drawers, or it may be a piece of furniture that is built-in to a wall or another piece of furniture, such as a bed or headboard. In addition, Those of skill in the art will recognize that the terms “night table,” “nightstand,” and “bedside table” are all used within the industry as standard descriptive names for the same type of furniture.

Turning in detail to the drawings,FIG. 1shows an embodiment of a tray table apparatus10coupled to a night table11. The tray table apparatus10includes a stowable tray table13shown in a first deployed position over a bed15. The first deployed position may also be known as a first deployed state. In the embodiment shown, the night table11includes an upper storage compartment17and a lower storage compartment19, with the tray table apparatus10being stowed in the upper storage compartment17. The night stand11and the upper and lower storage compartments17are intended to be non-limiting features of the invention, unless otherwise recited in the claims. As such, the night stand11, along with its upper and lower storage compartments17,19, and the bed15are shown and described herein to illustrate one context, amongst the many possible, in which the tray table apparatus10may be used.

The tray table apparatus10includes a tray table support assembly21which is coupled to and provides support for the tray table13. The tray table apparatus10transitions between the first deployed position and a first stowed position as illustrated inFIGS. 1-5. When the tray table support assembly21is in the stowed position, both the tray table13and the tray table support assembly21are stowed within the, upper storage compartment17.

The lower storage compartment19of the night stand11is shown as two drawers inFIG. 2. In certain embodiments, the lower storage compartment19may be one or more open shelves, one or more drawers, one or more cabinets, or any combination thereof. In addition, the lower storage compartment19may be sub-divided into two or more separate storage compartments. The lower storage compartment19may take any form desired for a particular implementation. In certain other embodiments, the lower storage compartment may be omitted entirely, such as in an implementation of a night table which is built-in to supported by a wall or other piece of furniture. In certain embodiments, the tray table apparatus10may be coupled to other types of furniture or support structures, some of which may not include any separate or distinct storage compartments.

As shown inFIG. 2, the upper storage compartment17of the night stand11includes a decorative facing23which serves to hide the tray table apparatus10stowed within the upper storage compartment17in the stowed position. In certain embodiments, the decorative facing23may be omitted. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the decorative facing23is pivotably affixed to a cross member25within the night table11. The decorative facing23may be pivoted in the direction shown by the arrow27to open the upper storage compartment17, thereby giving a user access to the tray table apparatus10stowed therein. In alternative embodiments, the decorative facing23may be directly affixed to the tray table support assembly21, thereby eliminating the need to pivot the decorative facing23prior to moving the tray table apparatus10out of the upper storage compartment17.

The tray table support assembly21includes a support shelf29which is coupled to the internal frame31of the night table11by drawer slides33. The drawer slides33enable the stowed tray table apparatus10to slide out of the upper storage compartment17in the direction shown by arrows35. In certain embodiments, the drawer slides33may be any appropriate type of mechanism which enables the tray table apparatus10to slide out from the upper storage compartment17. The tray table apparatus10is shown inFIG. 4in an intermediate position, outside of the upper storage compartment17, during the transition between the first stowed position and the first deployed position. In this intermediate position, and also in the first stowed position, the tray table support assembly2I is in a folded position.

More particularly, on the drawer slides33, the support shelf29translates, relative to the night stand11, between a retracted position, in which the tray table support assembly21is in the first stowed position within the upper storage compartment17, and an extended position, in which the tray table support assembly21is in an intermediate position, before transitioning to the first deployed position. During translation of the support shelf29from the extended position to the retracted position, and vice versa, the support shelf29travels in a plane of motion which is parallel to the pivot axes PA1, PA2, shown inFIG. 5.

The tray table apparatus10is shown in the first deployed position inFIG. 5. The tray table support assembly21includes a base plate36affixed to the support shelf29and pivot blocks37mounted to the base plate36. The base plate36is removably affixed to the support shelf29by threaded knobs38extending through the base plate36and into threaded receptacles (shown as threaded receptacles42inFIG. 11B) within the support shelf. A support arm39has a first end40with pivot members41pivotably coupled to the pivot blocks37. As described in greater detail below, the base plate36may be coupled to the support shelf29to create one of two possible states for the tray table apparatus21. In the first state of the tray table apparatus21, the base plate36is coupled to the support shelf29in a first position so that the pivot blocks37form a first pivot axis PA1, and in the second state of the tray table apparatus21, the base plate36is coupled to the support shelf29in a second position so that the pivot blocks37form a second pivot axis PA2. As shown inFIG. 5, the base plate36is coupled to the support shelf29in the second position.

Thus,FIG. 5demonstrates the tray table support assembly21and the tray table13in a first configuration such that in the first deployed position, the tray table13extends beyond a first side of the night stand11. However, it is possible to reconfigure the tray table apparatus21and the tray table13into a second configuration such that the tray able13extends beyond a second side of the night stand11by reversing the base plate36so that pivot blocks37rotate about the first pivot axis PA1instead of the second pivot axis PA2.

In the embodiment shown, the pivot members41form sides of the support arm39, and each pivot member41is positioned orthogonal to the pivot axis PA2. In certain embodiments, the support arm39may include at least one pivot member, and the at least one pivot member may be positioned at any angle to the pivot axis PA2so as to allow the pivot motion when the tray table apparatus10transitions from the first stowed position to the first deployed position and vice versa.

With the pivot members41pivotably affixed to the pivot blocks37, the support arm39is able to pivot with respect to the support shelf29for transitioning the tray table apparatus10between the intermediate position and the first deployed position. As is discussed in greater detail below, the support arm39is also pivotably coupled to the tray table13, so that when the support arm39moves during the transition between the intermediate position and the first deployed position (as shown by arrow45), the tray table13simultaneously can be pivoted with respect to the support arm39. The tray table support assembly21also includes support blocks47secured into threaded receptacles (shown as threaded receptacles44inFIG. 11B), and the support blocks47serve to support the tray table13when the tray table apparatus10is in the first stowed position or in the intermediate position.

The threaded receptacles used to secure the base plate36to the support shelf29and the threaded receptacles used to secure the support blocks47to the support shelf29are symmetrically located about a lateral centerline CL1and a longitudinal centerline CL2of the support shelf29. Symmetric placement of the respective threaded receptacles, along with the threaded knobs38used to secure the base plate36to the support shelf29allows the base plate36to be secured to either side of the support shelf29. This configuration also permits the user to easily and quickly reconfigure the tray table apparatus10from the first configuration to the second configuration. The tray table apparatus10can be used in the first deployed position or in a second deployed position, with the tray table13extended out on either side of the tray table support assembly21(as is shown inFIG. 11A). This provides the tray table apparatus10with easy symmetrical reconfigurability, such that the two optional deployed positions for the tray table apparatus10are symmetrical about the lateral centerline CL1of the support shelf29.

With the support blocks47in place, when the tray table apparatus10is in the first stowed position or in the intermediate position, the tray table13and the support shelf29, and the support arm39are positioned in a plurality of parallel planes, with a first plane defined by the tray table13, a second plane defined by the support shelf29, and a third plane defined by the support arm39. In certain embodiments, the support blocks47may include resilient caps4S to aid in reducing wear and tear on the underside of the tray table13when the tray table apparatus10is in the first stowed position or in the intermediate position.

The tray table support assembly21also includes a pivot stop49, as is shown inFIGS. 5 and 6. In the embodiment shown, the pivot stop49is a screw element51coupled to a knob53. The screw element51is secured into a threaded receptacle55included as part of the base plate36, with the handle extending above the top surface57of the base plate36. The support arm39includes a cross member59extending between the two pivot members41, and the cross member59is positioned such that when the tray table support assembly21is in the first or second deployed position, the cross member59comes into contact with the knob53. Rotation of the screw element51adjusts the height of the knob53above the top surface57of the base plate36. With this configuration, the knob53may have a selected adjustment position which serves to limit the pivot motion of the support arm39. The pivot motion of the support arm39is limited to a pivot angle α with respect to the plane of the base plate36. In the first or, second deployed position, the pivot angle α determines an angle of inclination formed between the support arm39and the support shelf29. Thus, the height of the knob53above the top surface57of the base plate36therefore serves to determine the height of one side of the tray table13, e.g., the height of the one side of the tray table13above the bed, when the tray table support assembly21is in the first or second deployed position. As described below, the height of other side of the tray table13is determined by a telescoping leg.

The bottom surface61of the tray table13is shown inFIG. 7. A tray pivot block63is mounted to the bottom surface61adjacent a first end65of the tray table13. The tray pivot block63couples with a pivot member67of the support arm39to pivotably couple the support arm39to the tray table13. The pivot member67extends along a longitudinal axis LA, and the tray pivot block63is movable by sliding along the longitudinal axis LA. In terms of the tray table13being placed over a bed, the sliding of the tray table13, with respect to the support arm39, means that the tray table may be moved toward and away from the foot/head of the bed. The support arm39includes an indent69at roughly a middle portion thereof to mark a centered position for the tray table13. As is shown inFIG. 8, the tray pivot block63includes a through hole73for receiving the pivot member67of the support arm39. Within the through hole73, the tray pivot block63houses a biased ball assembly75within a recess77. The biased ball assembly75includes a ball79biased by a spring81toward the center of the through hole73, so that when the tray table13slides along the longitudinal axis LA, the biased ball77slightly catches within the indent69to alert the user that the tray table13is at the centered position. By enabling the user to more easily identify the centered position of the tray table13, it is easier for the user to transition the tray table apparatus10from the deployed position to the stowed position and vice versa.

A support leg85is mounted adjacent and pivotably coupled to the bottom surface61adjacent the second end87of the tray table13. A leg clip89is also mounted to the bottom surface61of the tray table13. The support leg85is pivotable from a position parallel with the bottom surface61of the tray table13to a position that is orthogonal to the bottom surface61. In the parallel position, the leg clip89engages the support leg85and secures support leg85to the bottom surface61of the tray table13. In order to transition the tray table apparatus10into the first or second stowed position from the first or second deployed position respectively, the support leg85is engaged with the leg clip89in the parallel position. When the tray table apparatus10is in the first or second deployed position, the support leg85may be pivoted to the orthogonal position so that the support leg85can rest on the bed to provide additional stability and support to the tray table13.

As shown inFIG. 9, the support leg85is telescoping and includes a first leg segment91and a second leg segment93, with the second leg segment93being movable along the leg axis A1relative to the first leg segment91. The support leg85may also include an appropriate locking mechanism, such as a clamp, a thumb screw, or the like, to secure the relative positions of the first and second leg segments91,93. By moving the second leg segment93along the leg axis A1, the support leg85is adjustable in length so that the second end87of the tray table13may be set at a desired height by a user.

A handle101is affixed to the second end87of the tray table13, as is shown inFIGS. 7 and 10. The handle101is mounted to the second end87of the tray table13with pivot brackets103which permit the handle101to pivot with respect to the tray table13and allow gravity to provide a downward bias to the pivot position of the handle101. With the handle101configured in this manner, it facilitates transitioning the tray table apparatus10from the intermediate position to the deployed position, and at the same time, the handle101automatically hangs out of the way for placing the tray table apparatus10in the stowed position. Having the handle101positioned on the side of the tray table13makes it particularly easier for a user lying in a bed to transition the tray table apparatus10from the intermediate position to the deployed position.

It will be appreciated that the tray table apparatus10may be coupled to any support structure other than a night stand or furniture. For example, in certain embodiments, the tray table apparatus10may be coupled to a cart with wheels to provide a deployable tray table that may be used in any convenient circumstances. It will also be appreciated that the tray table apparatus10may be used in other circumstances which are not adjacent a bed. In addition, in certain embodiments the tray table apparatus10may be coupled to a support structure which may or may not include a storage compartment for stowing the tray table apparatus10. In such embodiments without a storage, compartment, the stowed position and the intermediate position of the tray table apparatus10may be one and the same position. In certain embodiments, such as one in which a storage compartment which opens from above the tray table apparatus10, instead of opening from on the side, is used for the stowing the tray table apparatus10, the tray table apparatus10may have no intermediate position, instead transitioning directly from the stowed position to the deployed position. In most embodiments, the ability to quickly and easily symmetrically reconfigure the deployed position of the tray table support assembly is anticipated to provide a versatility that is heretofore not seen in the prior art.

FIG. 11Ashows the reconfigurability of the tray table apparatus10. The support shelf29of the tray table support assembly21includes two pair of pivot axes PA1, PA2, each representing the positions of the pivot blocks37for each of the two deployment configurations. The pivot axes PA1, PA2are equidistant from the lateral centerline CL1of the support shelf29. To reconfigure the tray table apparatus10, the base plate36is released from the first side95of the support shelf29by releasing the threaded knobs38from the support shelf29and affixing the base plate36, along with the coupled pivot blocks37, support arm39, and the tray table13, to the second side97of the support shelf29. Thus, as shown and described, the tray table support assembly21may be easily and quickly reconfigured from a first configuration to a second configuration. This allows switching from one of the deployed positions to the other, such as, for example, to be used with a bed positioned on either side of the night table11.

Described another way, as part of the reconfiguration, the support arm39is alterable between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first end40of the support arm39is pivotably coupled to the support shelf21so as to be pivotable about a the pivot axis PA2between a first folded position and a first unfolded position in which the support arm39extends in a first inclined orientation such that the second end66of the support arm39is located laterally beyond the first edge96of the support shelf29. The tray table13extends from a first side of the night table11. In the second state, the first end40of the support arm39is pivotably coupled to the support shelf21so as to be pivotable about a the pivot axis PA1between a second folded position and a second unfolded position in which the support arm39extends in a second inclined orientation such that the second end65of the support arm39is located laterally beyond the second edge98of the support shelf29. The, tray table13extends from a second side of the night table11. Comparing the first state and the second state of the support arm39, the first folded state of the support arm39is symmetrical about the lateral centerline CL1of the support shelf29with the second folded state of the support arm39. Similarly, the first extended position of the support arm39is symmetrical about the lateral centerline CL1of the support shelf29with the second extended position of the support arm39.

A second embodiment of a tray table apparatus110, again shown in context coupled to a night table111, is illustrated inFIG. 12. This night table111also includes a lower storage compartment113and an upper storage compartment115As with other embodiments of the tray table apparatus110described herein, the tray table apparatus110may be coupled to any structural support other than a night stand or furniture. The tray table apparatus110includes a tray table117and a tray table support assembly119. As will be appreciated, one or more of the features described above for the tray table apparatus10may be incorporated into the tray table apparatus110as desired. The tray table apparatus110is shown in the deployed position, and the tray table apparatus110may be transitioned to a stowed position to be stowed within die upper storage compartment113. The tray table support assembly119includes a support shelf121which includes two pair of pivot blocks123,123, each pair defining a pivot axis PA1, PA2. The pivot axes PA1, PA2are parallel to each other and equidistantly spaced apart on opposite sides of the lateral centerline CL1of the support shelf121The support arm127of the tray table support assembly119is pivotably coupled to the tray table117and to one of the two pair of pivot blocks123,125, so that the support arm127pivots, with respect to the support shelf121, along one of the two pivot axes PA1, PA2. As shown, the pivot member131of the support arm127is coupled to the first pair of pivot blocks123, and the coupling is achieved with a removable fastener, such as a locking pin, a thumb screw, a screw element with a knob on one end, or the like, so that the support arm127may be easily and quickly removed from the first pair of pivot blocks123and pivotably coupled to the second pair of pivot blocks125. In doing so, the tray table apparatus110may be easily and quickly reconfigured, such as, for example, to be used with a bed positioned on either side of the night table111. The tray table apparatus110is therefore provided with easy symmetrical reconfigurability, such that the two available deployed positions of the tray table apparatus110, one when the support arm127is pivotably coupled to the first pair of pivot blocks123and the other when the support arm127is pivotably coupled to the second pair of pivot blocks125, are symmetrical about the lateral centerline CL1of the support shelf121. The first and second stowed positions of the tray table apparatus110are also symmetrical about the lateral centerline CL1of the support shelf121.

The tray table support assembly119also includes a pivot stop133which is affixed to the pivot member131of the support arm127, as is shown inFIG. 13. The pivot stop133includes a plate135which is affixed to and rotates with the pivot member131, and the plate135includes a threaded hole137therethrough. A screw element139is engaged with the threaded hole137, such that a length L of the screw element extends entirely through the plate135to extend outward from both sides. A knob141is coupled to the screw element139on one side of the plate135to facilitate rotation of the screw element139by a user. The end of the screw element139extending from the plate135on the opposite side as the knob141is positioned to abut against the support shelf121. With this configuration, the screw element139serves to limit the pivot motion of the support arm127. Rotation of the knob141adjusts the length L of the screw element139extending beyond the bottom edge of the plate135, such that the length L of the screw element139serves to determine the height of the tray table117, e.g., the height of the tray table117above the bed, when the tray table support assembly119is in the deployed position.

A third embodiment of the tray table apparatus is shown inFIGS. 14-18. As best shown inFIG. 14, the tray table apparatus210is coupled with a night table211. Once again, another article of furniture may be used in lieu of the night table211. The tray table apparatus210includes a stowable tray table213a tray table support assembly221, similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 1. All other details not expressly discussed are identical to the embodiment ofFIG. 1. The tray table support assembly221includes a support shelf229, a base plate236, and a support arm239. The base plate236is removably coupled to the support shelf229, and may be reversed depending on the side that the user desires the tray table213to be deployed. This allows conversion from a first configuration to a second configuration as discussed above with respect toFIG. 1. As before, in the first configuration, the tray table support assembly221and tray table213have a first stowed position whereby the tray table213is stowed within a storage compartment of the night table211and a first deployed state whereby the tray table213extends beyond a first side of the night table211. In the second configuration, the tray table support assembly221and tray table213have a second stowed position whereby the tray table213is stowed within the storage compartment of the night table211and a second deployed state whereby the tray table213extends beyond a second side of the night table211. In some embodiments, the first and second stowed positions may be identical. In other embodiments, the first and second stowed positions are symmetric with respect to a lateral centerline of the support shelf229.

The base plate236comprises a pair of pivot blocks237which are joined to individual pivot members241of the support arm239. The pivot members241extend from a first end240of the support arm239to the nay table213. A pivot stop249on the base plate236engages a cross member259on the support arm239to enable the user to set the angle of the support arm239with respect to the support shelf229. The cross member259extends between the two pivot members241, and may be welded, or welded to the pivot members. In alternate embodiments, the cross member259may be attached by any known means.

Turning toFIG. 15, a sectional view highlighting the adjustable pivot stop arrangement is shown. A perspective view of the adjustable pivot stop arrangement is also shown inFIG. 18. The pivot stop249consists of a screw element251, a knob253, and an adjustment cap254. The knob253and the screw element251are fixedly attached to each other such that when the knob253is rotated, the screw element251also rotates. In some embodiments, the knob253and the screw element251are integrally formed. In other embodiments, the knob253is formed as a separate component and is glued, pressed, welded, or otherwise attached to the screw element251. The adjustment cap254is attached to the top of the knob253, and is able to freely rotate with respect to the knob253. It may have interlocking features which ensure axial retention, or may merely be retained on the knob253by gravity. In yet other embodiments, the screw element251may extend through the knob253such that the adjustment cap254engages the screw element251and is free to rotate with respect to the screw element251.

The screw element251engages a threaded receptacle255in an adjustment well252. In some embodiments, the threaded receptacle255is formed as threads in the adjustment well252. In other embodiments, a separate component containing threads is mounted to the adjustment well252, such as by pressing, gluing, or other known techniques. In yet further embodiments, the threaded receptacle255may be formed in the base plate236or the support shelf229. The adjustment well252is formed as a tray having one open side to allow the user to easily reach the knob253for adjustment. The other three sides of the adjustment well252may be formed with walls having stepped and radiused corners, a taper, or other features to guide the user's hand to the adjustment knob253without the need to visually locate the adjustment knob253.

As with the embodiment ofFIG. 1, the base plate236has a top surface257onto which the pivot blocks237are mounted. The support arm239is therefore able to rotate at the first end240. The cross member259engages with the adjustment cap254so that the angle of the support arm239is set by turning the knob253, which raises the adjustment cap254. This moves the cross member259upward, adjusting the angle at which the support arm239rests when in the first or second deployed position. The adjustment cap254facilitates free rotation of the knob251because the friction between the adjustment cap254and the knob253can be controlled independent of the friction between the adjustment cap254and the cross member259. In sonic embodiments, a thrust bearing or other device may be used to minimize the friction between the adjustment cap254and the knob253to minimize the torque required to set the angle of the support arm239.

Turning toFIG. 16, a view of the underside of the tray table213is shown. As can be seen, the tray table213has a first end265proximal the support arm239and a second end287. The second end287has a pair of support legs285which engage a pair of corresponding leg clips289. The leg clips289allow the support legs285to be stowed when the tray table213is folded for storage. When the tray table213is deployed, the support legs285are folded down, releasing them from the leg clips289, such that they extend away from a plane formed by the bottom surface261of the tray table213.

Proximate the first end265, the tray table213also <has a tray pivot block263which engages a pivot member267located at a second end266of the support arm239, the second end266being opposite the first end240. This allows the tray table213to rotate about a longitudinal axis LA, permitting the deployment and stowage of the tray table213. The pivot member267and the tray pivot block263also form a sliding joint. This permits the tray table213to be translated along the longitudinal) axis LA so that the tray table213may be moved toward or away from the user with respect to the support arm239. The pivot member267further comprises an indent269which provides tactile feedback to the user when the user has moved the tray table213to the correct position for stowage of the tray table213The indent269and the tray pivot block263are illustrated as being in the middle of the support arm239and the tray table213respectively. However, in alternate embodiments one or both of the indent269and the tray pivot block263may be moved. This may provide a more desirable range of motion of the tray table213when in the deployed position. In yet other embodiments, the indent269may be eliminated.

As best shown inFIG. 17, the support legs285consist of first and second leg: segments291,293. The second leg segments293may be moved along the leg axis A1of the respective support legs285to adjust the length of the support legs285. As can be seen, the support legs285are not perpendicular to the tray table213, but splay outward slightly toward the second end287of the tray table213at an angle β. The angle β is greater than 90 degrees, and is preferably between 91 and 105 degrees. Most preferably, the angle β is 95 degrees. By angling the support legs285outward toward the second end287, the support legs285are resistant to accidental folding while in use. The two support legs285better stabilize the tray table213and more readily conform to uneven surfaces.

In other embodiments, the support legs285may be formed as a single member having a single length adjustment for two or more separate contact points, a single member having individual length adjustments for two or more separate contact points, or a single member that is non-adjustable. Most preferably, where two support legs285are utilized, they are arranged at the corners of the tray table213rather than along a longitudinal centerline of the tray table213. In yet other embodiments, it is conceived that the support legs285are positioned non-symmetrically about a longitudinal centerline of the tray table213.

Turning toFIGS. 19A, 19B, 20A, 20B, and 21, a fourth embodiment of the tray table apparatus is disclosed, showing only the tray table support assembly321and corresponding drawer slides333. The tray table and all other details are identical to that shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 1. In this embodiment, the tray table support assembly321has a support shelf329and a support arm339. In this embodiment, the base plate has been eliminated because the support arm339is mounted directly to the support shelf329. The support shelf329has a first side395and a second side397. The support shelf329is removably detachable from a pair of slide brackets322which are mounted on drawer slides333. The slide brackets322have engagement pins324which protrude upward and slideably engage engagement holes32.6formed into the support shelf329. The support shelf329is engaged with the slide brackets322by translating the support shelf329downward, causing the engagement holes326and engagement pins324to engage each other. The support shelf329is then retained by gravity. This allows rapid removal of the tray table support assembly321from the drawer slides333. In some embodiments, the engagement pins324and engagement holes326have retention features so that the support shelf329is retained on the slide brackets322. These retention features may take the form of snaps, bolts, screws, or any other known means. However, it is preferred that they be easy to engage and disengage the support shelf329from the slide brackets.

In some embodiments, there is only one engagement pin324and engagement hole326per slide bracket322. In yet other embodiments, there are more than two engagement pins324and engagement holes326per slide bracket322. In further embodiments, the engagement pins324and engagement holes326may not be circular, but instead may take the shape of a square, a slot with radiused ends, or another shape that permits engagement of the support shelf329with the slide brackets322. The engagement holes326need not extend all the way through the support shelf329. In alternate embodiments, the engagement pins324and the engagement holes326may be reversed such that the engagement pins324are arranged on the support shelf329. In yet further variations, the engagement pins324and engagement holes326may be features arranged into the insides of the slide brackets322which permit the support shelf329to engage the slide brackets322. Yet other embodiments may have a plurality of engagement features324and engagement holes326such that the support shelf329may be repositioned with respect to the slide brackets322along the longitudinal axis of the drawer slides333.

InFIGS. 19A and 19B, the support shelf329is arranged in a first configuration such that the second side397is toward the right as viewed by a user facing the tray table apparatus. InFIGS. 20A and 20B, the support shelf329is arranged in a second configuration such that the second side397is toward the left as viewed by a user facing the tray table apparatus. Accordingly, it is possible to reconfigure the tray table apparatus such that the tray table is adapted to fold out either side of the tray table apparatus, depending, on the side of the bed where it is intended to be used. As can be seen, FIGS.19A and19B demonstrate the tray table support assembly in a first stowed position andFIGS. 20A and 2011demonstrate the tray table support assembly in a second stowed position.

As can be seen, the embodiment ofFIGS. 19A, 19B, 20A, 20B, and 21also has an adjustable pivot stop349which engages the cross member359of the support arm339when the tray table is deployed. At the second side397of the support shelf329, a single support block348ensures that the support arm339rests at the desired position when the tray table is stowed. Only a single support block348is required, as the support arm339has sufficient rigidity that further support is not required. In some embodiments, the support block348is formed of a resilient material. In other embodiments it has a resilient element formed thereon, or is entirely formed of a rigid material such as wood or plastic.

The present embodiment is further modified to incorporate a support plate360, the support plate360being rigidly attached to the rest of the support arm339. The support plate360greatly improves stiffness of the support arm339and reduces the deflection of the support arm339in use. This increased rigidity gives the impression of greater quality without appreciably increasing the weight. The support plate360is welded, glued, riveted, or bolted to the rest of the support arm339. Any other known attachment means may be used.

The present embodiment fluffier comprises a spring element362which attaches between the support arm339and the support shelf329. In the present embodiment, the spring element362is attached between the support plate360and the support shelf329. The spring element36.2provides a force which assists the deployment and stowage of the tray table. When stowing the tray table, the spring element362provides a force which resists the compression of the spring element362. This serves to reduce the apparent weight of the support arm339and the tray table. Not only does this make it easier for users to stow the tray table, but it reduces the likelihood that the tray table will crash down onto the support shelf329. This is particularly valuable when used at night, where quiet operation is particularly desirable.

During deployment, the force applied by the spring element362assists deployment because it also provides a force which assists the unfolding. In the preferred embodiment, the force provided by the spring element362is less than the force required to deploy the tray table. Thus, the tray table does not self-deploy. Furthermore, the arrangement of the spring element362can be adjusted to provide different levels of assistance at different positions of the support arm339. In the present configuration, the spring element362provides the least assistance when the tray table and support arm339are in the first or second stowed positions, and provides greater assistance as the tray table and support arm339are unfolded toward the first or second deployed positions. The spring element362may be a gas spring, a coil spring, or any other type of conventional spring element capable of providing a force which resists compression. In some other embodiments, the spring element362may also provide a damping force. This can be particularly valuable for ensuring that the tray table does not crash down onto the support shelf329during stowage.

It is conceived that either the spring element362or the support plate360be eliminated in alternate embodiments. The spring element362may be attached to another portion of the support arm339if the support plate360is not required. :In these embodiments, the spring clement362might be offset to one side, rather than arranged along the longitudinal centerline of the support shelf329. Alternately, the support plate360may be used, but the spring element362may be eliminated if the weight of the tray table and the support arm339are not so heavy as to require additional support or cost reduction is deemed a higher priority.

InFIGS. 22 and 23, a fifth embodiment of the tray table apparatus is disclosed which has a modified support arm and pivot block arrangement. This is a variation ofFIG. 14, with all details not expressly disclosed being identical to that ofFIG. 14.FIG. 22shows the underside of the tray table apparatus. The tray table apparatus has a support arm439and a tray table413, similar to the previous embodiments. As before, the tray table413has a pair of support legs485which engage with a corresponding pair of leg clips489on a bottom surface461of the tray table413. The support arm439has a pivot member467at the end of the support arm439. The pivot member467engages with a tray pivot block463. However, there is no indent formed into the pivot member467. Instead, the pivot block463is positioned offset from the longitudinal centerline of the tray table413toward the night table. This enables the user to slide the tray table413away from the user when it is deployed, but, not slide the tray table413closer to the user. Instead, the pivot block463hits the end of the pivot member467and cannot be translated any further along the longitudinal axis LA. Because the user is rarely expected to need the tray table413any closer than the front surface of the night table, this only increases the effective adjustment range of the apparatus without any corresponding loss of function or increase in size of the apparatus.

When the pivot block.463is properly positioned, the indent can be successfully eliminated without any loss of functionality. Other embodiments utilize the indent to provide an indication of the proper positioning of the tray table413with respect to the support arm439for stowing the tray table413. However, the present embodiment merely requires that the tray table413be translated until the pivot block463reaches the end of the pivot member467. The tray table413can then be folded without risk of impact with the night table. Even if the tray table413is not translated until it stops, the tray table413will merely extend further out away from the night table than desired. No damage will result from the failure to position the tray table413in the proper position prior to stowage.

Turning to a sectional view of the pivot stop arrangement of the fifth embodiment is shown. As can be seen., the tray table apparatus has a support shelf429, on which a base plate436is mounted. An adjustment well452sits within the base plate and engages a pivot stop449. The pivot stop449engages the support arm in the same manner as with other embodiments of the invention, but is constructed in a slightly different manner. The pivot stop449has a screw element451coupled to a threaded receptacle455in the adjustment well452. The pivot stop449further comprises a knob453, an adjustment cap454, and a lower knob456. The knob453allows adjustment from above the support shelf429, and is rigidly coupled to the screw element451. Similarly, the lower knob456is also rigidly coupled to the screw element451to permit adjustment from underneath the support shelf429. The adjustment cap454is free to rotate with respect to the screw element451. Thus, the user may have the option of, adjusting the pivot stop449on either side of the support shelf429. In alternate embodiments, the knob453is eliminated and only the lower knob456retained. The knob453and the lower knob456may be attached in any known means, including gluing, welding, interlocking features, and the like.

Other embodiments of the tray table apparatus are conceived, such as the use of a centrally located pivot. Rather than causing the support arm to rotate about one side of the support shelf, it is conceived that this rotation may occur along the centerline of the support shelf. The support arm may then be reconfigured such that it is a linkage which pivots about the lateral centerline of the support shelf and is reversible without the need to detach the support shelf or the base plate from the rest of the apparatus. In this embodiment, the first and second stowed positions may be identical. This may result in a support arm consisting of more than two separate links, either one of the links being adapted to telescope. In yet other embodiments, the support arm may consist of multiple links which can be folded in different arrangements to permit transitioning from a first deployed position to a second deployed position.

In yet other embodiments, the support arm may be configured to pivot, such that it can be swiveled from the first configuration to the second configuration. Thus, the support arm may be rotatable about an axis, the axis being perpendicular to a plane formed between the drawer slides, such as the plane formed by the upper surface of the support shelf It may be possible to provide detent features which latch the support arm in the first configuration or the second configuration. Other embodiments may utilize reversible drawer slides or reversible furniture which allows the apparatus to be reconfigured from the first configuration to the second configuration. Furthermore, in any of the above embodiments, a “holdout slide” may be used for the drawer slides to ensure that the drawer slides do not retract while the tray table is deployed. This can help to ensure that the tray table maintains the user-set position and does not inadvertently retract while in use.