Abstract:
A folding support device and methods for constructing and using the same are provided by the present invention. A foldable support member contains a series of hinge sections and support and stress limiting members. Construction is provided enabling the device to safely collapse and stow while traveling, but to unfold and provide a gripping tension on both a support member and a support device in a reliable manner. Force analysis is provided securing the item in an upright way via a force transfer generated by the supported weight itself.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a folding travel support device and method for using the same. More particularly, the present invention provides a short use readily disposable compact support platform for use during travel, particularly but not limited to travel on public conveyances. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     There are many instances when users routinely have a beverage, food, or other item that requires a stable platform when not in an active-carry use, but where there is no such platform available. For example, trying to read on the bus or train while commuting in transit while balancing a beverage in-hand or on a non-suitable surface is both a constant annoyance and dangerous. 
     Known are permanently affixed-fold-down cup holders in planes, automobiles, and trains. Unfortunately, these are often not present on commuter-specific transportation modes—commonly a metro-type train—in view of their cost, ease of breakage, difficulty in fixing (following breakage), and for other economical and practical reasons. 
     As a result, no stable platform is available to a user. There currently exists no device that removably attaches to multiple environments, stably supports cups, cans or other items, and can be folded flat in a compact shape for transport in a briefcase, backpack, jacket pocket, for otherwise for convenient transportation and storage when not in use. 
     A number of extant patents provide for an ability to hold a container and be folded away when not in use, but these all involve permanent attachment to the vehicle. These include U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,649,270 and 4,530,480. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,051,428 shows a mechanism that can be removably attached to a ladder through a clamping device. The flexible nature of the mount on this device provides auto-leveling when stationary, but would prove dangerously unstable when applied to a moving structure such as a bus or a train. 
     Likewise, U.S. Pat. No. 4,887,784 attached to a supporting member with a clamp and a series of thumbscrews provided for adjustability. These attachment and adjustment elements are rigid and bulky, and consequently, cannot be easily folded flat for storage in a brief case or jacket pocket when not in use. 
     U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,984,722 and 5,280,870 both show adjustable cup holders that fold, and provides removability, but contain a number of moving parts, hinges, pins, and the like that require expensive manufacture and assembly. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,833,194 shows a cup holder that can be affixed to a car window, but is not suitable for a wide variety of differing mount position, such as would be required for someone facing a number of differing configurations. Again, the design consists of a plethora of manufactured parts. 
     Likewise, U.S. Pat. No. 6,409,137 is designed specifically for attachment to the folded tray table of an airline seat, and is not suitable for other public transportation applications. 
     Alternately there have been a number of inventions relating to container carriers that can be manufactured from folded, stamped, stiff or corrugated cardboard, but these have been designed to be carried by hand for transportation of multiple containers, rather than to be used to create a stable platform for use. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,744,704 is a typical example of this type. It provides easy carriage of multiple cans or bottles, but does not provide a way to support them while drinking and reading a paper, or other activity that requires the use of the user&#39;s hands. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,738,217 and 6,230,882 accomplish similar goals through differing methods. 
     These references do not combine (1) the ability to be quickly and removably mount to a variety of configurations, (2) the ability to stably support a beverage container or other item and (3) the ability to be manufactured cheaply by substantially stamping and folding a sheet of stiff, flat material such as paper, cardboard, or plastic. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In response, it is now recognized that there is a need to construct a device that remains rigid and stable when in use, securely retains an item being held, and yet is non-damaging in use, is removable and stow-able in a reduced profile. Further, the device may be constructed from a single sheet of material. 
     According to one aspect of the present invention, the device includes the properties of remaining rigid and stable when in use, securely holding the item in question, and folding into a relatively flat state for easy storage and transportation. The flat fold feature is required to make it easy store when not in use. The geometry of the hinging that is required to hold the device fast when hung over an attachment point, like a hand rail or the back of a train or bus seat necessarily has previously prevented the folding required to get the device to fold flat. Likewise the hinging required to hold the beverage or other item gripped securely in the system, yet be removable with a single hand, and non-pivotally and non-collapsible, while on the support, but that will loosen when the item is lifted off the support, and still fold flat is disclosed. 
     The disclosed invention provides a folding support device and methods for constructing and using the same. A foldable support member contains a series of hinge sections and supporting and motion-limiting members. Construction is provided enabling the device to safely collapse and stow while traveling, but to unfold and provide a gripping tension on both a support member and the supported item in a reliable manner. Force analysis is provided securing the item in an upright way via a force transfer generated by the supported weight itself. 
     According to another aspect of the present invention there is proposed a device and method wherein flexible hinge limiters are provided that operably employ the weight of an item-being-supported to further close the panels of the device over both an attachment point on a support and around the item being held in the manner discussed. 
     Thus, a folding travel support device is disclosed that is operably securable to an external fixed member. The system includes a substantially, flat rigid backing panel. The device also includes a top panel fixed hingedly to the backing panel. The device also includes a first limiting mechanism which prevents a hinge between the backing panel and the top panel from opening beyond a certain angle. The device also includes a main panel fixed hingedly to the top panel. The device also includes a flexible member fixed to the backing panel and the main panel such that a force provided by the fixed member will pull the backing panel toward the main panel. The device also includes a bottom panel fixed hingedly to the main panel. The device also includes a second limiting mechanism which prevents a hinge between the main panel and the bottom panel from opening beyond a certain angle. The device also includes a facing panel fixed hingedly to the bottom panel. The device also includes a flexible member fixed to the facing panel and the main panel such that a force provided by an item to be held will pull the facing panel toward the main panel, thereby trapping the item. 
     A method of using the device is also disclosed. The method includes separating the backing panel from the main panel. The method also includes positioning the device such that the backing panel falls on one side of a fixed element in an environment and the main panel falls on the other side of the fixed element. The method also includes allowing the device to rest on top of the fixed element, thereby causing the backing panel to be pulled tightly against one side of the fixed element and securing the system to the fixed element. The method also includes separating the facing panel from the main panel. The method also includes placing the item to be held to act upon the bottom panel of the device and to cause a resulting moment to pull the facing panel tightly against the item. 
     The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate the same elements. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of the proposed device engaging a support member and supporting a container, according to the disclosed embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  is a rear perspective view of the proposed device according to  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a folded perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of the proposed device, according to the disclosed embodiments. 
         FIG. 5  is a folded perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 6  is a side elevation view of an exemplary force diagram noting the proposed device relative to a support surface and supporting weight. 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of a partial exemplary force diagram noting the engaging forces to secure the weight being supported. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective cut arrangement according to the present invention noting the element panels may be cut from a monolithic precursor material. 
         FIG. 9  is a flowchart of the present invention proposing a method of using, the reverse thereof allowing the invention to compact for secure transport. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the invention. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps. The drawings are in simplified form and are not to precise scale. For purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional (up/down, etc.) or motional (forward/back, etc.) terms may be used with respect to the drawings. These and similar directional terms should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in any manner. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1-5 , where related embodiments of the proposed device are operative of a number of functionally hingedly secured panels and elements according to the following description. 
     A backing panel  1  is hinged to a top panel  2 , and thereafter to a main panel  3 , as shown. Thereafter, main panel  3  is hingedly secured to a bottom panel  4 , which may be formed from one or a plurality of sub-bottom panels  4 ( 2 ) to provide a further compact shape. Bottom panel  4  is operably secured to a facing panel  5 . 
     There are a plurality of operably secured force transmission members noted as ‘flexible members’ (in that they flex for folding but will transmit force as noted under tension (e.g., not stretchy). A plurality of bottom flexible members  6 ,  6  extend between the panel members shown on either side thereof and are secured at respective attachment points  8 , 8 , 8 , 8 . This securement at points  8 , may be fixed or optionally releasable for replacement upon breakage. A plurality of top flexible members  7 ,  7  extends between the panel members shown on either side thereof, and are secured at respective attachment points  8 , 8 , 8 , 8 , as shown. Again, this securement at points  8 , may be fixed or optionally releasable for replacement upon breakage. 
     Pairs of opposing top and bottom flex members  9 , 9 , 9 , 9  serve as hinge action limiters between the panels as shown in each embodiment. It will be recognized, that additional flex limiting members  9  may be provided in the disclosed embodiment to flexibly limit the travel of front panel  5  relative to bottom panel(s)  4 , as shown. 
     It will be further understand that each hinge is provided as a linear-type hinge point  10  for purposes of discussion, but is not limited to the drawing views. Such hinge points  10  may be in the form of tape, flexible members, multiple press or crimped sections, or in any other of a number of manners known to those of skill in the hinge-creation arts. Ideally, the proposed device may be initially cut and hinge-crimped from a single sheet of materials, but the invention is not so limited thereto. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 6 and 7 , additionally, a series of descriptive force or moment vectors are provided in an exemplary cross-sectional view according to the disclosed embodiments. As noted therein force A is the weight of the matter supported, B is the moment transferred to bottom panel  4  by the weight acting on hinge point  10 . Similarly force C is transmitted along flexible member  7  in both directions depending upon approach. D is the moment, bending, inwardly against the object being supported based upon further hinge and force transfer matters. E is the force generated by the object against the main panel  3  under support. F is the force of supporting the item on a support member (external). G is the force on top flex member  6  under stress, and H is the moment arm on back panel  7  that provides a gripping, pushing securing stress on the supporting element. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , the elements noted may be aligned on a single panel member prior to cutting or manufacturing. Following cutting, in any proportion, a further step of hinge-creation may be conducted—for example a pressing along the binges on the original cut-out member may be provided to form operative hinge regions. Thereafter, in forming steps, the attachment points maybe formed, and respective flexible members attached along with hinge limiting mechanisms. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a flow chart is provided for use steps in opening, positioning, weighing, providing a further hinge opening, placing the item and allowing the weight to secure the item to be held in respective steps  50 ,  51 ,  52 ,  53 ,  54 , and  55 , all as shown therein. 
     Thus, step  50  executes by opening a hinge point between backing panel  1  and top panel  2 . 
     Step  51  executes by positioning the holder over a stationary, or fixed, member  100 , shown in  FIG. 1 , within an environment. The environment may refer to the area on a train, bus or other means of transportation where the user sits. The stationary member  100  is to be used as a hanging support. 
     Step  52  executes by allowing the weight of the holder to close backing panel  1  against the back or support and to open the hinge point between main panel  3  and facing panel  5 . 
     Step  53  executes by opening the hinge point between bottom panel  4  and main panel  3 . 
     Step  54  executes by placing the item  102 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , to be held onto bottom panel  4 . 
     Step  55  executes by allowing the weight of the item to be held to cause, or pull, facing panel  5  close against the item, thereby securing the item within the holder. 
     It will also be understood, that the proposed device and methods of assembly or using, may be achieved in different manners now understood by one of skill in the art having previously studied the provided disclosure. 
     As a further step, it is recognized that the materials may be of any suitable type, without limitation, including for example cellulose products (paper, press board, cardboard etc.), plastic products (plastic panels, cut board, sheet stock etc.) or combinations thereof including metal. Similarly, the components may be of any suitable material. 
     Finally, it is recognized that advertisement, promotional, and decorative materials may be printed on or provided with the device at a point of purchase or to aid in offsetting the cost of construction of the item. 
     DRAWING ELEMENT REFERENCE NUMERALS 
     
         
           1 .) Backing Panel 
           2 .) Top Panel 
           3 .) Main Panel 
           4 .) Bottom Panel 
           5 .) Facing Panel 
           6 .) Bottom flexible member 
           7 .) Top Flexible Member 
           8 .) Flexible Member Attachment Point 
           9 .) Hinge limiter mechanism 
           10 .) Linear hinge point 
           100 .) Stationary or fixed element 
           102 .) Item to be held 
       
    
     Forces Shown on FIGS.  6  and  7   
     
         
         A.) Weight of Object to be supported 
         B.) Moment transmitted to bottom panel 
         C.) Force in Bottom flexible member generated by B 
         D.) Moment transmitted by C resulting in force on the object to be supported 
         E.) Force generated by object against main panel 
         F.) Force of supporting environmental element generated by weight (A) 
         G.) Force on Top Flexible member generated by F 
         H.) Moment arm on backing panel, pushing against supporting element 
       
    
     Method Step Elements 
     
         
           51 .) First step of opening hinge 
           52 .) Second step of positioning on a support 
           53 .) Third step of operating the system to secure system to a support 
           54 .) Fourth step of opening hinge point between support elements 
           55 .) Fifth step of placing an item for support by the system 
           56 .) Sixth step of engaging a weight of the item to secure the item on the support 
       
    
     Having described at least one of the preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be apparent to those skills that the invention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various modifications and variations can be made in the presently disclosed system without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure cover modifications and variations of this disclosure provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.