Utility Tray

The tray has a horizontal base and an edge. A C-clamp has a horizontally oriented side coupled to a bottom surface of the base, normal to and adjacent the edge. The C-clamp has first and second vertically oriented sides extending downward. The second vertically oriented side has a threaded hole. A screw has a shaft, a handle at a first end, and a shoe at a second end of the shaft. The second end of the screw passes through the threaded hole of the second vertically oriented side of the C-clamp and extends horizontally toward the first vertically oriented side of the C-clamp. Moving the handle causes the second end of the screw to further extend horizontally toward the first vertically oriented side of the C-clamp such that the shoe and the first vertically oriented side of the C-clamp frictionally engage the support structure when positioned therebetween.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present invention relate to utility trays, and in particular a tray that can be attached to a support member.

BACKGROUND

Utility trays have previously been provided with attachment means for attaching the utility tray to a supporting structure. However, the attachment means does not work well for some support structures, for example, a bed frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS.1A-1Fillustrate several views of a utility tray (100), according to an embodiment of the invention. The tray is capable of being frictionally engaged to, or clamped onto, a support structure, as disclosed in detail below. The support structure may have a rectangular cross section, as illustrated at340inFIG.3B. Such a support structure may be made of solid wood, or hollow rectangular or square metal tubing. Alternatively, the support structure may be a right-angle structure, as illustrated at440inFIG.4B, such as a piece of angle iron.

The tray may be made from wood product (such as bamboo, hardboard, or an engineered wood product, such as plywood, strand board, or medium density fiberboard (MDF), or materials made from recycled paper, such as Richlite or PaperStone®), metal, plastic (e.g., Melamine), or a combination of such or other products. The tray includes a horizontally oriented planar base105(hereinafter “base105”). The base has an edge115along which one or more brackets, such as right-angle brackets110, may be molded or coupled. Although tray100is illustrated as having a rectangular-shaped planar base105, it is appreciated that the tray base could be any shape such a polygon, circle, or oval shape. Although tray100is illustrated having two right-angle brackets, the lengths of which are relatively short compared to the length of edge115, it is appreciated that a single bracket or multiple brackets may extend along much or all the length of edge115.

With reference toFIG.1D, the right-angle bracket110has a horizontally oriented side120. An edge of horizontally oriented side120is coupled to adjacent edge115of base105. The horizontally oriented side120extends away from base105in a direction parallel to a plane of the base. The right-angle bracket110further has a vertically oriented side125coupled to horizontally oriented side120at a corner of the right-angle bracket and extending in a downward direction from the corner. In the illustrated embodiment, horizontally oriented side120of right-angle bracket110extends in the direction parallel in the same plane as base105. In the embodiments, the horizontally oriented side may extend in the direction of a plane parallel to, and above the base, or a plane parallel to, and below the base.

According to one embodiment, right-angle bracket110comprises a ribbed surface155which provides strength and stiffness to the right-angle bracket. Alternatively, the horizontally and/or vertically oriented sides of the right-angle bracket could be made thicker to provide additional strength and stiffness, but at the expense of additional raw material and weight.

In one embodiment, ribbed surface155comprises spaced apart horizontally oriented ribs attached or molded to a top surface of horizontally oriented side120of right-angle bracket110and extending in a direction normal to the edge of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle bracket. In one embodiment, the ribbed surface comprises spaced apart vertically oriented ribs attached to an outside surface of the vertically oriented side125of the right-angle bracket.

The tray100has another one or more brackets130coupled to a bottom surface of the base105and extending downward in the direction substantially normal to the base. Each bracket130is positioned opposite a right-angle bracket110with sufficient horizontal distance between the bracket and right-angle bracket, thereby forming a channel in which to receive a support structure, such as support structure340or440illustrated inFIGS.3B and4B.

With reference toFIGS.1A-1F,2,3B,4B,6C-6F, bracket130includes a threaded hole335,435,635. A threaded fixing, for example, a bolt, or as illustrated in the figures, a screw140comprising a head or handle145at a first end of the screw and a shoe150at a second end of the screw is inserted through threaded hole335,435,635such that the second end of the screw passes through the threaded hole of bracket130and extends toward right-angle bracket110. In alternative embodiments, the shoe may be a spinnable or movable turntable or shoe, wherein the turntable or shoe is affixed to the second end of the screw by a rivet of the like and can rotate about the long axis of the screw and/or pivot or move angularly a limited amount with respect to a plane normal to the long axis of the screw, for example, to better accommodate clamping against a support structure. Turning the head or the handle145of screw140causes the shoe150to move toward to engage and trap the support structure in the channel formed by the bracket and the right-angle bracket, between shoe150and right-angle bracket110. As the head or handle is turned after the support structure is trapped between shoe150and right-angle bracket110, the shoe and right-angle bracket frictionally engage the support structure positioned therebetween. In this manner, items (e.g., a laptop computer, a book, and various accessories, etc.) can be placed on and weigh down the tray and yet the tray is held firm in a substantially horizontal position to the support structure by virtue of shoe150and right-angle bracket110frictionally engaging the support structure.

The tray100illustrated inFIGS.1A-1Fincludes a planar base105that is made of peg board. The peg board includes a one- or two-dimensional array of holes106that are distributed across at least a portion of base105to accommodate one or more accessories. Alternatively, the peg board may include one or more holes106that are strategically located to support the attachment of an accessory at a desired location. For example, one or more holes may be positioned only along the periphery or perimeter of base105, or a portion thereof. Each accessory is designed to have a corresponding one or more pegs that can be inserted into a respective one or more holes in the peg board to firmly attach the accessory to tray100. While the illustrated embodiment depicts round holes106in the planar base, it is appreciated that other shapes for holes may be used, including polygonal-shaped holes, oval-shaped holes, a slot-shaped hole, etc.

With reference toFIGS.9A,9B,9C,10A,10B,10C,11A,11B,11C,12A,12B,12C,13A,13B,14A,14B and14C, several views of some of the following peg board accessories are illustrated: a vertical support post (for example, to support another tray or accessory positioned above base105), a J-style hook, an S-style hook900, a loop1000, a bungee, a mobile computing device holder, a mobile phone holder1100, a vertical dividing wall, a side or edge wall, a cup holder1200, an LED light, a fan, a USB charging port, a DC electrical outlet, an electrical surge protector, a DC power strip, and a USB charging port device. The above examples are illustrative only; it is appreciated that many other accessories may also be similarly affixed to tray100. As illustrated, each accessory comprises at least one peg905by which the accessory engages a hole in the peg board to firmly couple the accessory to the peg board. While the illustrated embodiment depicts round pegs that insert into a corresponding round hole106in the planar base, it is appreciated that other shapes for pegs that correspond to other shapes of holes may be used, including polygonal-shaped pegs, oval-shaped pegs, and blade or tab shaped pegs that insert into a slot-shaped hole, etc.

In one embodiment, with reference toFIGS.6D,6F,7B,7D,7F, a vertical spacer (640,740) is coupled to the bottom surface of base105next to edge115of the base to provide a vertical distance between the bottom surface of the base and a top surface of the support structure. Such spacing may be needed depending on other components coupled to the support structure. For example, as illustrated inFIGS.4A and4B, bed springs436are coupled at locations437to support structure440with sufficient horizontal clearance between the locations437and edge115of tray100. However, if such horizontal clearance is not possible, then providing for vertical clearance with the use of vertical spacers, allows tray100to be firmly mounted to support structure440without contacting springs436.

Quite commonly, with reference toFIGS.3A and3B, support structure340is a square or rectangular structure, for example, a hollow square or rectangular metal tube. In such a situation, vertically oriented side125of right-angle bracket110abuts a corresponding vertical side of support structure340. However, with reference toFIGS.1F,2,4A and4B, it is contemplated that in some situations support structure440may be a right-angle support structure that has a horizontally oriented side441and a vertically oriented side442that extends downward from the horizontally oriented side441. In such a situation, right-angle bracket110of tray100comprises a protruding member260,460coupled to and extending from vertically oriented side125of right-angle bracket110of tray100in a substantially horizontal direction under at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side441of right-angle support structure440. The protruding member260,460in one embodiment comprises a pin or peg or nibble section261,461that can pass through a corresponding hole163,263,463in right-angle bracket110, and a head262,462. Once the tray with right-angle bracket110is positioned on support structure440, protruding member260,460may be installed by inserting peg261,461into hole163,263,463and pushing on head262,462until the head contacts vertically oriented surface125.

The protruding member is positioned underneath the bottom surface of horizontally oriented side441of right-angle support structure440such that when downward pressure is applied to tray100, the protruding member contacts the bottom surface of horizontally oriented side441of right-angle support structure440and prevents right-angle bracket110from rotating about or slipping on right-angle support structure440, thereby preventing tray100from declining from its substantially horizontal orientation when weight or downward force is applied to tray100.

While the embodiment illustrated herein shows the protruding member260,460in the form of a peg, it is appreciated that the protruding member may be other shapes and sizes, such as a tab or lip extending in a horizontal direction from vertically oriented side125of right-angle bracket110. For example, with reference toFIGS.7B,7D,7E and7F, protruding member760forms a tab or lip that declines from a horizontal plane as it extends from the vertically oriented side of bracket710. In this embodiment, a portion of the protruding member760contacts at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side of a right-angle support structure.

In one embodiment of the invention illustrated inFIGS.5A-5F, tray100is capable of being frictionally engaged to a support structure540. The tray includes a horizontally oriented planar base105having an edge115, and a right-angle bracket510molded or coupled proximate the edge of the base. The right-angle bracket has a horizontally oriented side515extending in a direction parallel to a plane of the base and capable of abutting a top horizontally oriented surface541of support structure540, and a vertically oriented side520coupled to the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle bracket at a corner of the right-angle bracket and extending downward. The inside surface of the vertically oriented side can abut a vertical surface542of support structure540. A strap525is capable of being coupled to an end or edge530of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle bracket and extended around the support structure and to an end or edge535of the vertically oriented side of the right-angle bracket. The strap can be tightened to frictionally engage the right-angle bracket with the support structure.

Thus, this embodiment describes a tray, capable of being frictionally engaged to a support structure. The tray comprises a horizontally oriented planar base having an edge, a right-angle bracket coupled proximate the edge of the base, the right-angle bracket having: a horizontally oriented side extending in a direction parallel to a plane of the base and capable of abutting a top horizontally oriented surface of the support structure, and a vertically oriented side coupled to the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle bracket at a corner of the right-angle bracket and extending downward, an inside surface of which is capable of abutting a vertical surface of the support structure. The embodiment further comprises a strap that can be coupled to an edge of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle bracket, extended around the support structure and to an edge of the vertically oriented side of the right-angle bracket, and tightened to frictionally engage the right-angle bracket with the support structure.

In one embodiment of the invention illustrated inFIGS.6A-6F, rather than the right-angle bracket110in the embodiments discussed above, this embodiment uses only a vertical bracket610, that is, a bracket that extends downward in a vertical direction from edge115of tray100. This embodiment includes a protruding member660which serves the same purpose as described above. Thus, in this embodiment, tray100is capable of being frictionally engaged to a right-angle support structure that has a horizontally oriented side and a vertically oriented side that extends downward from the horizontally oriented side. As in the previously described embodiments, the tray includes a horizontally oriented planar base105having an edge115. The vertical bracket610is molded or coupled adjacent the edge of base105and extends downward in a direction substantially normal to the base. The protruding member660is coupled to and extends from the vertical bracket610in a substantially horizontal direction under at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle support structure. Another bracket130is coupled to a bottom surface of the base and extends downward in the direction substantially normal to the base. Bracket130is positioned opposite bracket610a sufficient horizontal distance to form a channel in which to receive the support structure positioned therebetween. A screw140comprises a head or handle145at a first end of the screw and a shoe150at a second end of the screw. The second end of the screw passes through a threaded hole635of bracket130and extends toward bracket610, wherein movement of (e.g., turning) the handle causes shoe150and bracket610to frictionally engage the support structure positioned therebetween. While this embodiment illustrates a vertical spacer640, it is appreciated that the vertical spacer is an optional feature.

Thus, this embodiment describes a tray, capable of being frictionally engaged to a right-angle support structure that has a horizontally oriented side and a vertically oriented side that extends downward from the horizontally oriented side. The tray comprises a horizontally oriented planar base having an edge, a first bracket coupled adjacent the edge of the base and extending downward in a direction substantially normal to the base, a protruding member coupled to and extending from the first bracket in a substantially horizontal direction under at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle support structure, a second bracket, having a threaded hole, coupled to a bottom surface of the base and extending downward in the direction substantially normal to the base, the second bracket positioned opposite the first bracket a horizontal distance sufficient to form a channel in which to receive the support structure positioned therebetween, and a screw comprising a handle at a first end of the screw and a shoe at a second end of the screw, the second end of the screw passing through the threaded hole of the second bracket and extending toward the first bracket, wherein movement of the handle causes the shoe and the first bracket to frictionally engage the support structure positioned therebetween.

Finally, another embodiment is illustrated inFIGS.8A-8F. This embodiment involves a tray100capable of being frictionally engaged to a support structure (not shown in the figures) as well. The tray includes a horizontally oriented planar base105having an edge115, and a right-angle bracket810coupled proximate the edge of the base. The right-angle bracket has a horizontally oriented side815extending in a direction parallel to a plane of the base that is capable of abutting a top, horizontally oriented, surface of the support structure. The right-angle bracket further has a vertically oriented side820coupled to the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle bracket at a corner of the right-angle bracket and extending downward. An inside surface825of the vertically oriented side820can abut a vertical surface of the support structure.

This embodiment further includes a bracket830, having a threaded hole835, the bracket extending downward in a direction substantially normal to the base and positioned opposite the right-angle bracket a sufficient horizontal distance to form a channel in which to receive the support structure positioned therebetween. A screw840passes through threaded hole835of bracket830and can engage a threaded hole816of right-angle bracket810, wherein turning the screw while the screw is engaged with threaded hole816of right-angle bracket810shortens the horizontal distance between bracket830and right-angle bracket810, thereby causing bracket830and right-angle bracket810to frictionally engage the support structure positioned therebetween. In some situations, the support structure is a right-angle support structure that has a horizontally oriented side and a vertically oriented side that extends downward from the horizontally oriented side. In such situations, the bracket830comprises a protruding member860coupled to and extending from bracket830in a substantially horizontal direction under at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle support structure.

It is contemplated that at least a portion of the protruding member860coupled to bracket830extends in the substantially horizontal direction under at least the portion of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle support structure and may abut the portion of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle support structure.

Thus, this embodiment describes a tray, capable of being frictionally engaged to a support structure. The tray comprises a horizontally oriented planar base having an edge, a right-angle bracket coupled proximate to the edge of the base, the right-angle bracket having: a horizontally oriented side extending in a direction parallel to a plane of the base, having a threaded hole, and capable of abutting a top, horizontally oriented, surface of the support structure, and a vertically oriented side coupled to the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle bracket at a corner of the right-angle bracket and extending downward, an inside surface of which is capable of abutting a vertical surface of the support structure. This embodiment further comprises a bracket, having a threaded hole, the bracket extending downward in a direction substantially normal to the base and positioned opposite the right-angle bracket a horizontal distance sufficient to form a channel in which to receive the support structure positioned therebetween, a screw passing through the threaded hole of the bracket and capable of engaging the threaded hole of the right-angle bracket, wherein turning the screw while the screw is engaged with the threaded hole of the right-angle bracket shortens the horizontal distance between the bracket and the right-angle bracket, thereby causing the bracket and right-angle bracket to frictionally engage the support structure positioned therebetween.

In this embodiment, the support structure may be a right-angle support structure that has a horizontally oriented side and a vertically oriented side that extends downward from the horizontally oriented side, and the bracket may be a protruding member coupled to and extending from the bracket in a substantially horizontal direction under at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle support structure.

In this embodiment, at least a portion of the protruding member coupled to and extending from the bracket in the substantially horizontal direction under at least the portion of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle support structure abuts the portion of the horizontally oriented side of the right-angle support structure.

With reference toFIGS.15A-15K, it is contemplated that in some situations support structure1540may be a right-angle support structure that has a horizontally oriented side1541and a vertically oriented side1542that extends downward from the horizontally oriented side1541. In such a situation, right-angle bracket110of tray100includes a threaded hole1535. A threaded fixing, for example, a bolt, or a screw,1550comprising a head or handle1555at a first end of the screw and a shoe1560at a second end of the screw is inserted through threaded hole1535such that the second end of the screw passes through the threaded hole of right-angle bracket110and extends toward the vertically oriented side1542of right-angle support structure1540. Turning the head or the handle1555of screw1550causes the shoe1560to move toward, engage and trap the vertically oriented side of right-angle support structure between shoe1560and the opposing shoe150of screw or bolt140. As the head or handle1555is turned after the support structure is trapped between shoes150and1560, the shoes frictionally engage the vertically oriented side of the support structure positioned therebetween. In this manner, items (e.g., a laptop computer, a book, and various accessories, etc.) can be placed on and weigh down the tray, or an upward force could be applied to the tray, for example, someone pulling up on the tray, and yet the tray is held firm in a substantially horizontal position to the right-angle support structure. While the embodiments illustrated inFIGS.15A-15K and16A,16Bcontemplate use of a right-angle bracket, it is appreciated that this embodiment may be adapted to use a vertical bracket, such as described in the embodiment of the invention illustrated inFIGS.6A-6F, which uses only a vertical bracket610, that is, a bracket that extends downward in a vertical direction from edge115of tray100. This embodiment may also optionally make use of a vertical spacer640, as described in the embodiment of the invention illustrated inFIGS.6A-6F.

In an alternative embodiment illustrated inFIGS.16A and16B, right-angle bracket110of tray100includes a polygonal shaped slot1635instead of a threaded hole. A threaded fixing, for example, a bolt, or a screw1650comprising a head or handle1655at a first end of the screw, a shoe1660at a second end of the screw, and a similarly sized and shaped polygonal shaped nut threaded onto a midsection of the screw1650, is inserted through slot1635such that the second end of the screw passes through the slot of right-bracket110and extends toward the vertically oriented side of right-angle support structure. In particular, polygonal shaped nut1670, appropriately dimensioned and positioned, is inserted into slot1635. Turning the head or the handle1655of screw1650causes the screw to turn, while nut1670is held in place by slot1635and does not rotate as the screw is turned. Turning the head causes shoe1660to move toward, engage and trap the vertically oriented side of right-angle support structure between shoe1660and the opposing shoe150of screw or bolt140. A washer1675prevents nut1670from leaving slot1635as the shoe1660is moved toward and engages the vertically oriented side of right-angle support structure. As the head or handle1655is turned after the support structure is trapped between shoes150and1660, the shoes frictionally engage the vertically oriented side of the support structure positioned therebetween. In this manner, items (e.g., a laptop computer, a book, and various accessories, etc.) can be placed on and weight down the tray, or an upward force could be applied to the tray, for example, someone pulling up on the tray, and yet the tray is held firm in a substantially horizontal position to the right-angle support structure.

As noted above, and with reference toFIGS.17A-17H, it is contemplated that in some situations support structure1740may be a right-angle support structure that has a horizontally oriented side1741and a vertically oriented side1742that extends downward from the horizontally oriented side1741. In such a situation, a right-angle bracket1710of tray100comprises a protruding member in the form of block1760integrated with (e.g., molded as part of) and extending from vertically oriented side1725of right-angle bracket1710of tray100in a substantially horizontal direction under at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side1741of right-angle support structure1740. The block1760in one embodiment is hollow, defined by four walls, including a first side wall1760A, a bottom wall1760B, a second side wall1760C and top wall1760D. In another embodiment, the block may be a solid block. Once the tray with right-angle bracket1710is positioned on support structure1740, the top surface of top wall1760D is positioned just underneath the bottom surface of horizontally oriented side1741of right-angle support structure1740such that when downward or upward pressure is applied to tray100, the block1760contacts the bottom surface of horizontally oriented side1741of right-angle support structure1740and prevents right-angle bracket1710from rotating about or slipping on right-angle support structure1740, thereby preventing tray100from declining or inclining from its substantially horizontal orientation when downward or upward force is applied to tray100.

With reference toFIGS.17H and18A-18I, it is contemplated that in some situations support structure1740may be a right-angle support structure that has a horizontally oriented side1741and a vertically oriented side1742that extends downward from the horizontally oriented side1741. In such a situation, a right-angle bracket1810of tray100comprises a protruding member in the form of block1860coupled to and extending from vertically oriented side1825of right-angle bracket1810of tray100in a substantially horizontal direction under at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side1741of right-angle support structure1740. The coupling, for example, is accomplished with a peg1865on block1860inserted through a hole or slot1811as illustrated inFIG.18F. Once the tray with right-angle bracket1810is positioned on support structure1740, the top surface of block1860is positioned underneath the bottom surface of horizontally oriented side1741of right-angle support structure1740such that when downward or upward pressure is applied to tray100, the block1860contacts the bottom surface of horizontally oriented side1741of right-angle support structure1740and prevents right-angle bracket1810from rotating about or slipping on right-angle support structure1740, thereby preventing tray100from declining or inclining from its substantially horizontal orientation when downward or upward force is applied to tray100. Additionally, one or more horizontally extending members1860X1-1860Xn may be snapped into place to horizontally lengthen the block1860so that the block contacts vertically oriented side1742of right-angle support structure1740when the tray is positioned on support structure1740. For example,FIGS.18G,18H, and18Iillustrate four horizontally extending members1860X1,1860X2,1860X3and1860X4are snapped into place essentially to horizontally extend, or lengthen, block1860such that the block contacts vertically oriented side1742of right-angle support structure1740when the tray is positioned on support structure1740. As illustrated inFIGS.18G,18H, and18I, the block1860and the horizontally extending members1860X1-1860Xn each have a recessed or frame portion1861. Each horizontally extending member1860X1-1860Xn further includes a corresponding protruding portion1862that snaps into the recessed or framed portion of an adjacent block1860or other horizontally extending member1860X1-1860Xn.

With reference toFIGS.19A-19F, one embodiment combines one or more components from the embodiments described with respect toFIGS.6A-6F,7A-7F,17A-17H and18A-18I. In this embodiment, it is contemplated that support structure1740may be a right-angle support structure that has a horizontally oriented side1741and a vertically oriented side1742that extends downward from the horizontally oriented side1741. In such a situation, a right-angle bracket1910of tray100comprises a protruding member in the form of block1960coupled to and extending from vertically oriented side1925of right-angle bracket1910of tray100in a substantially horizontal direction under at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side1741of right-angle support structure1740. The coupling, for example, is accomplished with a peg1965as illustrated inFIGS.19D and19Fon block1960inserted through a hole or slot of vertically oriented side1925of right-angle bracket1910of tray100(not shown). Once the tray with right-angle bracket1910is positioned on support structure1740, the top surface of block1960is positioned underneath the bottom surface of horizontally oriented side1741of right-angle support structure1740such that when downward or upward pressure is applied to tray100, the block1960contacts the bottom surface of horizontally oriented side1741of right-angle support structure1740and prevents right-angle bracket1910from rotating about or slipping on right-angle support structure1740, thereby preventing tray100from declining or inclining from its substantially horizontal orientation when downward or upward force is applied to tray100.

Additionally, one or more horizontally extending members1960X1-1960Xn may be snapped into place to horizontally lengthen the block1960so that the block contacts vertically oriented side1742of right-angle support structure1740when the tray is positioned on support structure1740. For example,FIGS.19A and19C-19Fillustrate multiple horizontally extending members1960X snapped into place essentially to horizontally extend, or lengthen, block1960such that the block contacts vertically oriented side1742of right-angle support structure1740when the tray is positioned on support structure1740. Just like block1860and the horizontally extending members1860X1-1860Xn described with reference toFIGS.18A-18I, each horizontally extending member1960X has a recessed or frame portion1961. Each horizontally extending member1960X further includes a corresponding protruding portion that snaps into the recessed or framed portion of an adjacent block1960or other horizontally extending member1960X.

The embodiments illustrated inFIGS.17A-17H,18A-18I and19A-19Fcontemplate use of a right-angle bracket. However, it is appreciated that these embodiments may be adapted to use a vertical bracket, such as described in the embodiment of the invention illustrated inFIGS.6A-6F, which uses only a vertical bracket610, that is, a bracket that extends downward in a vertical direction from edge115of tray100. Additionally, component1940provides a vertical spacer to provide a similar function as the vertical spacers (640,740) described with reference toFIGS.6A-6F and7A-7F. The vertical spacer1940is coupled to the block1960and abuts the bottom surface of base105next to edge115of the tray100to provide a vertical distance between the bottom surface of the base and a top surface of the support structure. Such spacing may be needed depending on other components coupled to the support structure. For example, as illustrated inFIGS.4A and4B, bed springs436are coupled at locations437to support structure440with sufficient horizontal clearance between the locations437and edge115of tray100. However, if such horizontal clearance is not possible, then providing for vertical clearance with the use of vertical spacers such as spacer1940allows tray100to be firmly mounted to support structure430without contacting springs436.

With reference toFIGS.20A-20E, the tray100has one or more brackets or channels2030with a horizontally oriented portion2030H coupled to a bottom surface of the base105and a first vertically oriented portion2030V1extending downward in the direction substantially normal to the base. The bracket2030may be mounted to the bottom surface of base105at different locations. For example, as illustratedFIGS.20A-20E, a bracket2030may be mounted along a line comprising a plurality of mounting locations2035A, or along a line comprising a second plurality of mounting locations2035B. Additionally, according to an embodiment, bracket2030can include a second vertically oriented portion2030V2that functions in the same manner as, for example, bracket110illustrated, for example, inFIGS.1A-1F, so that a single component2030comprising two brackets2030V1and2030V2can be mounted at different locations at the bottom surface of base105with sufficient horizontal distance between the brackets2030V1and2030V2to form a channel in which to receive a support structure, such as support structure340or440illustrated inFIGS.3B and4B. In this embodiment, for example, it is possible to couple component2030to the line of mounts illustrated at2035A, in which case bracket2030V2extends downward in a vertical direction from edge115of tray100. Alternatively, it is possible to couple component2030to the line of mounts illustrated at2035B, in which case the vertical bracket2030V2is offset from edge115of tray100where it extends downward in a vertical direction, in the same manner as illustrated with the right-angle bracket110illustrated inFIGS.1A-1F, where the vertical portion125of right-angle bracket110extends downward in a vertical direction. The horizontally oriented portion2030H extends in a direction parallel to a plane of the base, and then vertically oriented bracket2030V2extends from the horizontally oriented portion at a common corner2032and extends downward.

Alternative embodiments of tray100are illustrated inFIGS.21A-21AI. The tray's planar base105extends in a horizontal plane and has an edge115that is positioned parallel to a support structure2180when installed. A C-clamp2130is coupled to the bottom surface of base105. The C-clamp2130includes a horizontally oriented side2132at least a portion of which is coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base105. In the embodiment, the horizontal side2132is oriented substantially normal to and adjacent the edge115of base105. C-clamp2130further includes a first vertically oriented side2134meeting the horizontally oriented side2132at a first corner of the C-clamp2130and extending downward. The C-clamp further includes a second vertically oriented side2136meeting the horizontally oriented side2132at a second corner of the C-clamp2130and extending downward. The second vertically oriented side includes a threaded hole2135.

The C-clamp2130includes a screw140comprising a threaded shaft, a handle145at a first end of the screw, and a shoe150at a second end of the screw. The second end of the screw passes through the threaded hole2135of the second vertically oriented side2136of the C-clamp2130and extends horizontally toward the first vertically oriented side2134of the C-clamp2130. Moving, e.g., twisting, the handle145causes the second end of the screw to further extend or move horizontally toward the first vertically oriented side2134of the C-clamp1230such that the shoe150and the first vertically oriented side2134of the C-clamp2130frictionally engage the support structure2180when the support structure2180is positioned between the first and second vertically oriented sides2134,2136of the C-clamp2130.

According to embodiments, one or more C-clamps may be used to frictionally engage the support structure2180. For example,FIGS.21A-21AIillustrate a pair of C-clamps installed to frictionally engage the support structure2180. Depending on the size of the tray, in particular, the length of the tray in the direction parallel to the support structure, and/or depending on the size of the C-clamp(s), and/or depending on the size of the support structure, three or more C-clamps may be used to frictionally engage the support structure2180.

While the embodiment illustrated inFIGS.21A-21AIcontemplate the screw passing through the threaded hole2135of the second vertically oriented side2136of the C-clamp2130, it is possible to essentially reverse the C-clamp so that screw passes through a threaded hole of the first vertically oriented side2134of the C-clamp2130. In either case, the C-clamp forms an opening that spans the support structure, and one vertically oriented side of the C-clamp functions as a fixed jaw that contacts the support member, while the other vertically oriented side has a threaded fixing that passes through a threaded hole, such as a threaded bolt with a shoe, which functions as a movable jaw that contacts and frictionally engages the other, opposite, side of the support structure when the handle is turned.

According to another embodiment, the C-clamp may include two movable jaws each of which contacts and frictionally engages a respective side of the support structure to secure the tray to the support structure. For example, as depicted in at leastFIGS.21A,21O and21AJ, the first vertically oriented side2134of the C-clamp2130also includes a threaded hole, for example, the threaded hole created by the combination of slot2167and clip2165, and a second bolt or screw2170comprising a threaded shaft, a handle or head2155at a first end of the second screw, and a shoe or pad2160at a second end of the second screw. The second end of the second screw passes through the threaded hole, for example, the threaded hole created by slot2167and clip2165slidably engaged with the slot. According to one embodiment, clip2165includes a punched in portion2168on one side of the clip that acts as a spring that biases against, or presses on, a surface of the first vertically oriented side2134so that the clip, or at least the punched in portion of the clip, presses against, and frictionally engages, the surface of the first vertically oriented slide of slot2167when the clip is slipped into place over the slot. In one embodiment, a pair of horizontally aligned openings, one in each of the respective sides of the clip, act like an internal female threaded hole and engage external threads of the screw, so that the screw can be inserted in the first vertically oriented side2134of the C-clamp2130and extended horizontally toward the second vertically oriented side2136of the C-clamp2130. In another embodiment, clip2165comprises an internally threaded flange2166on one (as illustrated inFIG.21O) or both sides (not illustrated) of the clip, in which case, the external threads of the second screw pass through the internally threaded flange(s) of the slot. The flange(s) comprise a protruded ridge, lip or rim, and while shown inFIG.21Oas an externally protruded ridge, lip, or rim, either or both flanges could be internally protruded. In essence the flange(s) guide the movement of the second screw through the clip and accompanying slot. Movement of the handle2155of the second screw causes the second end of the second screw to further extend or move horizontally toward the second vertically oriented side2136of the C-clamp2130such that the shoes150and2160of the respective first and second screws frictionally engage the support structure2180when the support structure is positioned between the first and second vertically oriented sides of the C-clamp. In one embodiment, the support structure2180may be a right-angle structure, as illustrated inFIGS.21H,21I and21J, such as a piece of angle iron. While the second screw is smaller than the first screw in the illustrations, it is appreciated that the screws may be substantially the same size, or the first screw may be smaller than the second screw.

According to an embodiment, the tray further comprises a threaded fixing, e.g., a bolt or screw2152A, positioned along a length of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130, via which to couple at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130to the bottom surface of the planar base105. According to this embodiment, the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp comprises a corresponding hole2150A positioned along the length of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130through which the threaded fixing, e.g., bolt or screw2152A, passes to couple at least the portion of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130to the bottom surface of the planar base105.

According on one embodiment, the threaded fixing comprises a bolt or screw2152A with external male threads that passes through the hole, e.g., hole2150A positioned along the length of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130to mate with a nut with internal female threads embedded at the bottom surface of the planar base, e.g., nut2145A, to couple at least the portion of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130to the bottom surface of the planar base105.

While the above-described embodiment mentions a single threaded fixing to couple at least the portion of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130to the bottom surface of the planar base, such as illustrated inFIGS.21O-21AI, it is contemplated that a plurality of threaded fixings may be used to do so. In such an embodiment, the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130may comprise a plurality of holes, e.g., two holes2150A and2150B, or two holes2150B and2150C, or three holes2150A,2150B and2150C, positioned along the length of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130. A threaded fixing, e.g., screw2152A, can be inserted through any one of the plurality of holes2150A,2150B and2150C of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130to couple at least the portion of the horizontally oriented side of the C-clamp to the bottom surface of the planar base105. Alternatively, two threaded fixings, e.g., screws2152A and2152B, can be inserted through any two of the plurality of holes2150A,2150B and2150C to couple at least the portion of the horizontally oriented side of the C-clamp to the bottom surface of the planar base. For example,FIG.21Killustrates screws2152A and2152B being inserted through respective holes2150A and2150B and then respectively mating with embedded nuts2145A and2145B. Alternatively, the screws2152A and2152B could be inserted through holes2150B and2150C and then respectively mating with embedded nuts2145A and2145B.

In the embodiments illustrated inFIGS.21O-21AI, a single threaded fixing, e.g., screw2152A, is used to couple at least the portion of the horizontally oriented side of the C-clamp to the bottom surface of the planar base105. A choice can be made at the time of installation of the tray onto the support structure as to which of the plurality of holes2150A or2150B the single threaded fixing is inserted. For example, inserting screw2152A through hole2150B causes the C-clamp can be installed so that the vertically oriented side2134is essentially flush with the edge115of the tray100, in which case the screw2152A couples the entire length of the horizontally oriented side of the C-clamp to the bottom surface of the planar base105. This is illustrated, for example, inFIGS.21AB-21AI, and is the typical installation configuration when installing the tray at a support structure that is square or rectangular in dimension. Alternatively, inserting screw2152A through hole2150A causes the C-clamp can be installed so that the vertically oriented side2134is extended horizontally from edge115of the tray100, in which case, the screw2152A couples just a portion of the horizontally oriented side of the C-clamp to the bottom surface of the planar base105. This is illustrated, for example, inFIGS.21D,21F,21I,21X-21AA, and is the typical installation configuration when installing the tray at or on a support structure that is a right-angle in dimension.

According to embodiments, there are multiple locations on the bottom surface of the planar base to which a C-clamp may be coupled. To guide the process of choosing a location during installation, an embodiment comprises a plurality of channels or slots, e.g., slots2140A,2140B and2140C, or slots2142A,2142B and2142C, from which to choose or select to position a C-clamp to be coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base. In one embodiment, the channels or slots are each oriented substantially normal to and adjacent the edge115of the tray100and sized to receive the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp where it is coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base. In one embodiment, the slots are recessed into the bottom surface of the planar base, such as illustrated inFIG.21A. In another embodiment, the channels or slots may be defined by raised ribs, spaced apart to accommodate the C-clamp therebetween, as illustrated, for example, inFIG.21K. Thus, it is possible to select from a plurality of fixed locations at the time of installation where to position a C-clamp to be coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base.

Even more flexibility is provided at the time of installation as to where to position a C-clamp2130to be coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base105in the embodiments illustrated inFIGS.21O-21AI. As illustrated, the planar base105comprises a cut-out, in the shape of an elongated aperture2185A, or a plurality of such apertures, e.g., apertures2185A and2185B. The number of apertures correspond to at least the number of C-clamp(s) to be coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base. These elongated apertures run parallel to and offset from (inside of) the edge115, and normal to the horizontally oriented side2132of at least the portion of the C-clamp2130coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base105(which as described above is positioned substantially normal to and adjacent the edge).

As illustrated inFIG.21O, a threaded fixing, e.g., screw2152A, is positioned along a length of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130and passes through any position along the elongated aperture, according to where the C-clamp2130is positioned, via which at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side2132of the C-clamp2130is coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base.

In the illustrated embodiment, the threaded fixing includes not only an external male threaded screw2152A, but also a corresponding internal threaded nut2153A to which the screw2152A is mated. Depending on the type of material used in the planar base, an elongated washer2154A may also be installed to prevent damage to the material when the screw2152A is mated and tightened down with the corresponding nut2153A.

While the illustrated embodiment contemplates the screw2152A inserted from below the tray and the nut2153A mated to the screw from above the tray, the components may be reversed, so that the screw is inserted from above and the nut mated to the screw from below the tray.

In another embodiment, screw2152A may be integrated with the horizontally oriented side of the C-clamp at the time of manufacture so that it already protrudes above the horizontally oriented side of the C-clamp and can help guide positioning of the C-clamp where it intersects with the elongated aperture2185A, as illustrated, for example, inFIGS.21R and21S.

In an embodiment, the top of nut2153A is flush or below the top surface of planar base105once the C-clamp is installed, allowing for a plastic cap or the like to be placed in the elongated aperture, rendering a smooth, unbroken, top surface of the planar base, as illustrated, for example, inFIGS.21T,21U,21AA,21AE and21AI.

FIGS.22A-22Dillustrate a threaded fixing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The threaded fixing comprises a first post2200with a lower portion that has external male threads that can mate with internal female threads into one of a plurality of threaded holes2250A and2250B of horizontally oriented side2232of C-clamp2230(FIGS.22A,22B). A second post2205with external male threads can mate with an upper portion of first post2200that has internal female threads and thereby couple the C-clamp to the tray. (FIGS.22B,22C,22D).

FIGS.23A-23Cillustrate a threaded fixing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The threaded fixing comprises a post2300that has external male threads that can mate with internal female threads in a single threaded hole of horizontally oriented side2332of C-clamp2330(FIG.23A). A nut2305with internal female threads can mate with the post2300and thereby couple the C-clamp to the tray. (FIGS.23B,23C).

FIGS.24A-24Dillustrate a threaded fixing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention like the embodiment illustrated inFIGS.21O-21AI. A C-clamp2430can be coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base105. As illustrated, the planar base105comprises a cut-out, in the shape of an elongated aperture2485A, or a plurality of such apertures, e.g., apertures2485A and2485B. The number of apertures correspond to at least the number of C-clamp(s) to be coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base. These elongated apertures run parallel to and offset from (inside of) the edge115, and normal to the horizontally oriented side2432of at least the portion of the C-clamp2430coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base105(which as described above is positioned substantially normal to and adjacent the edge). As further illustrated, the planar base105further comprises a recessed portion, in the shape of an elongated recessed portion2490A, or a plurality of such elongated recessions, e.g., recessions2490A and2490B. The number of recessions correspond to at least the number of C-clamp(s) to be coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base. These elongated recessions run parallel to and further offset from the edge115than the elongated apertures2485A and2485B, and normal to the horizontally oriented side2432of at least the portion of the C-clamp2430coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base105(which as described above is positioned substantially normal to and adjacent the edge).

As illustrated inFIG.24B, a threaded fixing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, comprises a post2400A and a post2400B both of which have external male threads that can mate with internal female threads in a threaded hole of horizontally oriented side2432of C-clamp2430(FIG.24B). A nut2405with internal female threads can mate with the post2400A or2400B and thereby couple the C-clamp to the tray. (FIGS.24B,24C). When the nut2405is mated with post2400A, the C-clamp is coupled to tray such that vertically oriented side2434of the C-clamp is flush with edge115of tray100, and post2400B is situated within recession2490A or2490B depending on the location of the C-clamp. When nut2405is mated to post2400B, the C-clamp is coupled to the tray such that vertically oriented side2434is extended horizontally from edge115of tray100. Thus, the threaded fixing, e.g., post2400A or2400B, is positioned along a length of the horizontally oriented side2432of the C-clamp2430and passes through any position along the elongated aperture2485A or2485B, according to where the C-clamp2430is positioned, via which at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side2432of the C-clamp2430is coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base.

In an embodiment, the top of nut2405is flush or below the top surface of planar base105once the C-clamp is installed, allowing for a plastic cap or the like to be placed in the elongated aperture, rendering a smooth, unbroken, top surface of the planar base.

FIGS.25A-25Cillustrate a threaded fixing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention which is like the embodiment illustrated inFIGS.24A-24Dexcept that the threaded fixing is a single external male threaded bolt2505that is inserted from above the tray100, through elongated aperture2585A and/or2585B to mate with an internal female threaded hole2500A or2500B in the horizontally oriented side2532of C-clamp2530, thereby coupling C-clamp2530to the bottom surface of the planar base105of tray100.

FIGS.26A-26Cillustrate a threaded fixing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention like the embodiment illustrated inFIGS.24A-24Dbut without the elongated apertures in planar base105. Rather, a threaded fixing may be inserted through a series of holes2690A,2690B and2690C, or2692A,2692B and2692C to couple the bottom surface of planar base105to a C-clamp2630. As illustrated, the planar base105comprises a plurality of holes2690A,2690B and2690C and another plurality of holes2692A,2692B and2692C. The number of plurality of holes correspond to at least the number of C-clamp(s) to be coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base. Each plurality of holes, e.g., whether2690A,2690B and2690C, or2692A,2692B and2692C, run parallel to and offset from (inside of) the edge115, and normal to the horizontally oriented side2632of at least the portion of the C-clamp2630coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base105(which as described above is positioned substantially normal to and adjacent the edge).

As illustrated inFIGS.26A and26C, a threaded fixing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, comprises a nut2605which has external male threads that can mate with internal female threads in a threaded hole, or in one of a plurality of threaded holes, of horizontally oriented side2632of C-clamp2630and thereby couple the C-clamp to the tray. For example, when the nut2605is mated with hole2600A, the C-clamp is coupled to tray such that vertically oriented side2634of the C-clamp is flush with edge115of tray100. When nut2605is mated to hole2600B, the C-clamp is coupled to the tray such that vertically oriented side2634is extended horizontally from edge115of tray100. Thus, the threaded fixing, whether inserted into hole2600A or2600B, is positioned along a length of the horizontally oriented side2632of the C-clamp2630and passes through one of2690A,2690B and2690C, or2692A,2692B and2692C, according to where the C-clamp2630is positioned, via which at least a portion of the horizontally oriented side2632of the C-clamp2630is coupled to the bottom surface of the planar base.