Abstract:
A wooden octagonal picnic table and bench system with integral wooden umbrella and accessory platforms is herein disclosed. The table comprises eight (8) equal sides with four (4) separated seat benches with a centrally oriented umbrella-shaped roof assembly. The benches are attached at their base using a plurality of supports for stability. A cup holder platform is located at the tabletop surface and encircles the center vertical post. At an intermediate location up the post is a tray with a containment lip to hold bottles, condiments or other similar containers around the post. A wine glass holder is provided near the top of the post facing in all directions for holding stemware in an inverted position. The table also provides roof-mounted lighting and electricity thereto appliances and accessories via a pair of duplex outlets mounted thereto an upper portion of the center post.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present invention was first described in and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent No. 60/905,060 filed Mar. 6, 2007, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention describes a patio picnic table having an eight-sided configuration and further comprising commonly associated accessories including means for supporting a plurality of lighting elements. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Emerging as a new segment in lawn and garden retailing is outdoor living—an evolution of the market for patio furniture and grills that piggybacked on home decor trends. The idea of creating an outside room for retreat or entertaining keeps getting stronger, resulting in a robust market for a widening assortment of outdoor living products. Trends in outdoor living have taken an interesting turn in that just about anything goes now. 
     Picnic tables can be found in backyards, parks, campgrounds and rest stops across the country. Such tables vary widely in design and size, but all serve to facilitate the function of the eating outside. While they perform this function admirably well, several disadvantages still remain. First, separate picnic benches are prone to tipping over due to uneven loading, uneven ground and the like. Secondly, direct sun is always a problem. While some picnic tables are provided with an integral umbrella, they are typically small in size and provide shade for only one or two people. Third, wind or even mild breezes, tend to knock over cups, bottles, condiments and the like. Finally, picnic table manufacturers are on the constant lookout for features and enhancements to make their tables more attractive and functional. 
     Accordingly, there is a need for a means by which the functionality of a picnic table can be enhanced to address the shortcomings described above, allowing users to engage in outdoor entertaining without sacrificing amenities, convenience and accessibility. The development of the invention herein described fulfills this need. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 7,124,694 filed by Li discloses an umbrella table with inlaid turntable. This patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 7,044,064 filed by Li discloses an umbrella table with inlaid turntable. This patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 411,927 filed by Van Rhienen discloses an octagon table with four legs. This design patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system nor is the design similar to that of the instant invention described herein. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,803,265 filed by Bergerman discloses a patio table tray. This patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal picnic table with the accessories possessed by the instant invention herein described. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 378,479 filed by Smith discloses a table. This design patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system nor is the design similar to that of the instant invention described herein. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,493,976 filed by Hammond discloses a table tray adapted for installation around an umbrella pole. This patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal picnic table with the accessories possessed by the instant invention herein described. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,335,803 filed by O&#39;Brien and O&#39;Brien discloses a rotatable food tray for outdoor patio furniture. This patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal picnic table with the accessories possessed by the instant invention herein described. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,027,718 filed by Graham discloses a sectional table. This patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,635,614 filed by Segroves discloses a deep fat frying pot cooker holding and picnic table. This patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 258,029 filed by Redmond discloses an octagonal game table. This design patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system nor is the design similar to that of the instant invention described herein. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 250,684 filed by Van Sant discloses a table. This design patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system nor is the design similar to that of the instant invention described herein. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 241,999 filed by Carter discloses a table. This design patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system nor is the design similar to that of the instant invention described herein. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 239,843 filed by Freeman discloses a convertible game and dining table. This design patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system nor is the design similar to that of the instant invention described herein. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 237,563 filed by Gerber discloses a convertible game table. This design patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system nor is the design similar to that of the instant invention described herein. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 233,497 filed by Zelkowitz discloses a convertible game table. This design patent does not appear to disclose an octagonal patio picnic table with an integral umbrella roof structure, cup holders, storage rack or electrical system nor is the design similar to that of the instant invention described herein. 
     The prior art appears to disclose tables that serve various functions. The prior art does not appear to disclose a octagonal patio picnic table that possesses integral seating, an umbrella roof structure, cup holders, a storage shelf and an electrical supply system. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the prior art, it has been observed that there is need for a patio picnic table that possesses integral seating, cup holders, storage rack and an electrical supply. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table provides users with a firm and stable wooden picnic table area with enhancements in a manner, which is convenient, beneficial, and attractive. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table with accessories comprises a large eight-sided picnic table with several enhancements including large attached bench seats to accommodate approximately eight (8) people, wheelchair access, a large umbrella shaped wooden roof, overhead lighting, a convenient cup holder for approximately eight (8) cups, a storage shelf, and a wine glass hanger. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table provides a wooden assembly comprising a base, a pair of first seats, a pair of second seats, a plurality of supports, a tabletop, a center post, and an umbrella roof. Said wooden assembly is envisioned to be constructed using a plurality of two (2) inch thick pressure treated lumber boards attached using corrosion-resistant fastening means such as, but not limited to: nail tooth plates, screws, lag bolts, and nails. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table with accessories is constructed of construction materials such as, but not limited to: one (1) inch thick boards, composite lumber, extruded aluminum, or fiberglass panels. The apparatus is further envisioned to be provided in a variety of finishes and colors such as but not limited to, natural color, stained, various painted colors, and the like. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table with accessories possesses a base comprising an eight (8) sided polygon made up of boards. The base preferably comprises an overall size of approximately seven (7) to ten (10) feet across; however, it is understood that the apparatus may be scaled appropriately so as to provide a children&#39;s model, thereby providing a similar benefit to children. The base provides an attachment means for a plurality of support boards comprising an interconnected sub-structure providing stability and a secure attachment means for the first and second seats, the tabletop and the post, by providing multiple connection points thereupon. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table with accessories possesses seating surfaces having two (2) different depths for differently sized occupants. The first seats are located at opposing sides of the apparatus and comprise a wide seating surface approximately fifteen (15) inches deep comprising an assembly of parallel boards providing a large enough seating area to comfortably accommodate two (2) large adults. The second seats also located at opposing sides of the apparatus  10  comprise a more narrow seating surface of approximately twelve (12) inches deep being wide enough to accommodate two (2) smaller adults or children, for example. The four (4) seats are arranged and attached to the base in such a position as to provide an access space between any two (2) adjacent seats thereby enabling a convenient approach thereto said seats without having to step over said seating. The space between the seats provides easy access thereto elderly, encumbered, or wheelchair occupants. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table with accessories provides additional storage means due to the open construction of the seats and associated support boards allowing a variety of items to be conveniently stored under or adjacent thereto said seats within the perimeter of the base portion of the apparatus  10  such as, but not limited to: coolers, purses, audio devices, extra food/drink storage, and the like. 
     The tabletop comprises an octagonal shaped assembly of parallel or circumscribed boards affixed thereto said support boards using conventional carpentry techniques, thereby providing a flat horizontal surface approximately four (4) to six (6) feet across. 
     The center post comprises a sturdy vertical column preferably using a four-by-four (4×4) inch post, a six-by-six (6×6) inch post, or an assembly of boards extending approximately six (6) to ten (10) feet above ground level. The post provides a supporting structure and attachment means for the cup holder, the glass hanger, the storage shelf, and the umbrella roof. The post extends down through the tabletop and is secured to the support boards using common fasteners. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table with accessories center post also provides electrical power thereto the umbrella roof via a male plug, internal wiring, and a pair of mounted duplex outlets. The male plug comprises a common three (3) prong plug being mounted permanently thereto a lower-central portion of the supports using common fasteners and being in electrical communication therewith common wiring affixed to the center post and being routed internally or externally to said post. Said wiring extends in an upward direction thereto a pair of duplex outlets. The male plug provides a removably attachable electrical connection thereto a common extension cord, thereby providing a convenient 110-volt power supply means thereto the apparatus. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table with accessories umbrella roof provides protection thereto occupants therefrom sun and rain via an all-wood construction mounted securely and permanently thereto an upper portion of the post extending outwardly over the seats forming an octagonal perimeter shape. The umbrella roof comprises a plurality of supporting roof members affixed thereto said center post and extending in an angular arrangement outwardly thereto the umbrella roof. The umbrella roof provides a rugged construction capable of withstanding anticipated wind forces of inclement weather. The umbrella roof comprises similar outside dimensions as the base being approximately seven (7) to ten (10) feet across. 
     The umbrella roof is constructed of construction materials similar to those used in the base such as, but not limited to, wood, a tube frame with canvas or vinyl covering, sheet metal panels, or fiberglass panels. The center post and umbrella roof comprise sufficient structural strength so as to withstand wind and rain forces associated with normal outdoor use. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table possesses enhanced features comprising a cup holder, a storage shelf, and a glass hanger. 
     The cup holder is attached to the post using common fasteners and circumscribes said post around at a vertical position approximately three (3) inches above and parallel thereto the tabletop surface. The cup holder is envisioned to provide openings for approximately eight (8) cups  100  of a standard diameter. The cup holder is further envisioned to be octagonal in shape and having a thickness of approximately one-half (½) inch. The cup holder is preferably made using wood; however, other common materials may be provided such as metal, fiberglass, or the like. 
     The storage shelf comprises an eight (8) sided horizontal shelf with enclosed side portions approximately six (6) inches high to safely contain a plurality of bottles, glasses, and the like. The storage shelf is attached to and circumscribes said post around at an approximate vertical position of fourteen (14) to twenty (20) inches above, and parallel thereto, the tabletop surface. The storage shelf is preferably made using wood; however, other common materials may be provided such as metal, fiberglass, or the like. 
     The glass hanger provides a storage means for wine glasses or other glasses which comprise a thin stem. The glass hanger comprises approximately eight (8) cut-out slots suitable to support glasses hanging in an inverted orientation to keep said glasses clean. The glass hanger comprises similar materials and construction to that of the cup holder and is to be attached thereto the post in a like manner approximately two (2) feet above the storage shelf. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table with accessories possesses an umbrella roof portion comprising a plurality of roof members, wiring, a pair of duplex outlets, and attached lighting. 
     The umbrella roof portion wiring comprises common insulated copper conductors with ground, originating from a male plug located at a base portion of the post. The wiring extends in an upward direction within the post to a pair of duplex outlets. 
     The duplex outlets are connected to the post using conventional electrical installation methods and fasteners being positioned thereupon opposing outer surfaces of the post above the glass hanger. The duplex outlets comprise common outdoor-type self-contained electrical box units envisioned to include weather-proof seals and features suitable thereto outdoor applications. The duplex outlets provide a 110-volt power supply to various electrical devices and appliances which may be used such as, but not limited to, blenders, toasters and stereos. 
     The duplex outlets further provide electrical power thereto one (1) or more strands of rope lighting or other forms of lighting. The lighting may be permanently or temporarily mounted thereto a lower surface of the umbrella roof and roof members using common fasteners such as, but not limited to, clips, staples, eyelets, or tie-straps arranged in a linear or circular pattern in order to provide desired lighting effects. 
     The octagonal patio picnic table with accessories may be used by performing the following steps: moving and locating the apparatus to a desired location thereupon a patio, deck, or flat ground surface; installing lighting therewith a plurality of fasteners in a desired pattern along a bottom surface of the umbrella roof to produce a desired lighting effect, if not previously installed; routing a conventional electrical cord from an existing electrical source thereto the male plug, thereby energizing both the lighting and the duplex outlets; adding various cups, bottles, glasses, and other eating and drinking accessories thereinto the cup holder, the storage shelf, and the glass hanger based upon a user&#39;s preferences; plugging various appliances and devices thereinto the duplex outlets as desired; occupying the seats by utilizing the convenient openings therebetween said seats enabling even elderly or encumbered participants easy access; and, sitting and enjoying the protection and convenience afforded a user of the invention when picnicking with family and friends. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of an octagonal patio picnic table with accessories  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is an upward looking view of an octagonal patio picnic table with accessories  10  depicting an umbrella roof portion  40 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a side isometric view of an octagonal patio picnic table with accessories  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of an octagonal patio picnic table with accessories  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a top section view taken along section A-A of  FIG. 1  of an octagonal patio picnic table with accessories  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 6  is a close-up view of the apparatus  10  depicting routing of the wiring  52  therein a bottom portion of a post  30 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTIVE KEY 
     
         
         
           
               10  octagonal patio picnic table with accessories 
               20  base 
               21  first seat 
               22  second seat 
               23  supports 
               24  tabletop 
               28  wiring slot 
               29  decorative trim 
               30  post 
               31  cup holder 
               32  glass hanger 
               33  storage shelf 
               40  umbrella roof 
               41  roof member 
               50  male plug 
               52  wiring 
               55  duplex outlet 
               60  power cord 
               62  fastener 
               65  lighting 
               100  cup 
               110  bottle 
               120  glass 
           
         
       
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of its preferred embodiment, herein depicted within  FIGS. 1 through 6 . However, the invention is not limited to the described embodiment, and a person skilled in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments of the invention are possible without deviating from the basic concept of the invention and that any such work around will also fall under scope of this invention. It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and that example configurations shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. 
     The present invention describes an apparatus and method for an octagonal patio picnic table with accessories (herein described as the “apparatus”)  10 , comprising a large eight-sided picnic table with several enhancements including large attached bench seats  21  to accommodate approximately eight (8) people, wheelchair access, a large umbrella shaped wooden roof  40 , overhead lighting  65 , a convenient cup holder  31  for approximately eight (8) cups, a storage shelf  33 , and a wine glass hanger  32 . The apparatus  10  provides users with a firm and stable wooden picnic table area with enhancements in a manner, which is convenient, beneficial, and attractive. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1 through 6 , various views of the apparatus  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, are disclosed. The apparatus  10  provides a wooden assembly comprising a base  20 , a pair of first seats  21 , a pair of second seats  22 , a plurality of supports  23 , a tabletop  24 , a center post  30 , and an umbrella roof  40 . Said wooden assembly is envisioned to be constructed using a plurality of two (2) inch thick pressure treated lumber boards attached using corrosion-resistant fastening means such as nail tooth plates, screws, lag bolts, nails, or the like; however, other construction materials may be provided such as one (1) inch thick boards, composite lumber, extruded aluminum, fiberglass panels, or the like, and as such, should not be interpreted as a limiting factor of the present invention. The apparatus  10  is further envisioned to be provided in a variety of finishes and colors such as but not limited to, natural color, stained, various painted colors, and the like. The base  20  comprises an eight (8) sided polygon made up of the aforementioned boards. The base  20  preferably comprises an overall size of approximately seven (7) to ten (10) feet across; however, it is understood that the apparatus  10  may be scaled appropriately so as to provide a children&#39;s model, thereby providing a similar benefit to children. The base  20  provides an attachment means for a plurality of support boards  23  comprising an interconnected sub-structure providing stability and a secure attachment means for the first  21  and second  22  seats, the tabletop  24 , and the post  30 , by providing multiple connection points thereupon. The apparatus  10  provides seating surfaces having two (2) different depths for differently sized occupants (see  FIG. 5 ). The first seats  21  are located at opposing sides of the apparatus  10  and comprise a wide seating surface approximately fifteen (15) inches deep comprising an assembly of parallel boards providing a large enough seating area to comfortably accommodate two (2) large adults, for example. The second seats  22  also located at opposing sides of the apparatus  10  comprise a more narrow seating surface of approximately twelve (12) inches deep being wide enough to accommodate two (2) smaller adults or children, for example. The four (4) seats  21 ,  22  are arranged and attached to the base  20  in such a position as to provide an access space between any two (2) adjacent seats  21 ,  22  thereby enabling a convenient approach thereto said seats  21 ,  22  without having to step over said seating  21 ,  22  in a manner associated with many conventional picnic table models. The space between the seats  21 ,  22  provides easy access thereto elderly, encumbered, or wheelchair occupants. The apparatus  10  provides additional storage means due to the open construction of the seats  21 ,  22  and associated support boards  23  allowing a variety of items to be conveniently stored under or adjacent thereto said seats  21 ,  22  within the perimeter of the base portion  20  of the apparatus  10  such as, but not limited to: coolers, purses, audio devices, extra food/drink storage, and the like. The tabletop  24  comprises an octagonal shaped assembly of parallel or circumscribed boards affixed thereto said support boards  23  using conventional carpentry techniques, thereby providing a flat horizontal surface approximately four (4) to six (6) feet across. The center post  30  comprises a sturdy vertical column preferably using a four-by-four (4×4) inch post, a six-by-six (6×6) inch post, or an assembly of boards extending approximately six (6) to ten (10) feet above ground level. The post  30  provides a supporting structure and attachment means for the cup holder  31 , the glass hanger  32 , the storage shelf  33 , and the umbrella roof  40 . The post  30  extends down through the tabletop  24  and is secured to the support boards  23  using common fasteners. The center post  30  also provides electrical power thereto the umbrella roof  40  via a male plug  50 , internal wiring  52 , a wiring slot  28 , a length of decorative trim  29 , and a pair of mounted duplex outlets  55 . The male plug  50  comprises a common three (3) prong plug being mounted permanently thereto a lower-central portion of the supports  23  using common fasteners and being in electrical communication therewith common wiring envisioned being Romex or similar common conductors being routed along the post  30  therewithin a vertically sawn wiring slot  28  and discreetly covered using decorative trim  29  (see  FIG. 6 ). Said wiring  52  extends in an upward direction thereto a pair of duplex outlets  55  (see  FIG. 2 ). The male plug  50  provides a removably attachable electrical connection thereto a common extension cord, thereby providing a convenient 110-volt power supply means thereto the apparatus  10 . The umbrella roof  40  provides protection thereto occupants therefrom sun and rain via an all-wood construction mounted securely and permanently thereto an upper portion of the post  30  extending outwardly over the seats  21 ,  22  forming an octagonal perimeter shape. The umbrella roof  40  comprises a plurality of supporting roof members  41  affixed thereto said center post  30  and extending in an angular arrangement outwardly thereto the umbrella roof  40 . The umbrella roof  40  provides a rugged construction capable of withstanding anticipated wind forces of inclement weather. The umbrella roof  40  comprises similar outside dimensions as the base  20  being approximately seven (7) to ten (10) feet across being illustrated in  FIG. 1  in the preferred wooden embodiment; however, the umbrella roof  40  may be built using alternate construction materials such as, but not limited to: a tube frame with canvas or vinyl covering, sheet metal panels, fiberglass panels, or the like, and as such should not be interpreted as a limiting factor of the present invention  10 . The center post  30  and umbrella roof  40  comprise sufficient structural strength so as to withstand wind and rain forces associated therewith normal outdoor use. 
     The apparatus  10  further provides enhanced features comprising a cup holder  31 , a storage shelf  33 , and a glass hanger  32 . The cup holder  31  is attached thereto the post  30  using common fasteners and circumscribes said post  30  therearound at a vertical position approximately three (3) inches above and parallel thereto the tabletop surface  24 . The cup holder  31  is envisioned to provide openings for approximately eight (8) cups  100  of a standard diameter. The cup holder  31  is further envisioned to be octagonal in shape and having a thickness of approximately one-half (½) inch. The cup holder  31  is preferably made using wood; however, other common materials may be provided such as metal, fiberglass, or the like. The storage shelf  33  comprises an eight (8) sided horizontal shelf with enclosed side portions approximately six (6) inches high to safely contain a plurality of bottles  110 , glasses  120 , and the like. The storage shelf  33  is attached to and circumscribes said post  30  therearound at an approximate vertical position of fourteen (14) to twenty (20) inches above, and parallel thereto, the tabletop surface  24 . The storage shelf  33  is preferably made using wood; however, other common materials may be provided such as metal, fiberglass, or the like. The glass hanger  32  provides a storage means for wine glasses  120  or other glasses which comprise a thin stem. The glass hanger  32  comprises approximately eight (8) cut-out slots suitable to support glasses  120  hanging in an inverted orientation to keep said glasses  100  clean. The glass hanger  32  comprises similar materials and construction to that of the cup holder  31  and is to be attached thereto the post  30  in like manner approximately two (2) feet above the storage shelf  33 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2  is an upward looking view of the apparatus  10  depicting an umbrella roof portion  40 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The umbrella roof portion  40  further comprises a plurality of roof members  41 , wiring  52 , a pair of duplex outlets  55 , and attached lighting  65 . The wiring  52  comprises common insulated copper conductors with ground, originating therefrom a male plug  50  located at a base portion of the post  30  (see  FIG. 1 ). Said wiring  52  extends in an upward direction therewithin the post  30  thereto a pair of duplex outlets  55 . The post  30  provides an attachment means thereto the duplex outlets  55  using conventional electrical installation methods and fasteners being positioned thereupon opposing outer surfaces of the post  30  above the glass hanger  32 . The duplex outlets  55  comprise common outdoor-type self-contained electrical box units envisioned to include weather-proof seals and features suitable thereto outdoor applications. The duplex outlets  55  provide a 110-volt power supply thereto various electrical devices and appliances which may be used in conjunction therewith the apparatus  10  such as blenders, toasters, stereos, and the like. The duplex outlets  55  further provide electrical power thereto one (1) or more strands of rope lighting  65  as illustrated here; however, it is understood that various types of lighting fixtures arranged in any number of patterns and colors may be provided without deviating from the concept and as such should not be interpreted as a limiting factor of the invention  10 . Said lighting  65  may be permanently or temporarily mounted thereto a lower surface of the umbrella roof  40  and roof members  41  using common fasteners  62  such as clips, staples, eyelets, tie-straps, or the like, being arranged in a linear or circular pattern to provide a variety of desired lighting effects. 
     It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The preferred embodiment of the present invention can be utilized by the common user in a simple and effortless manner with little or no training. After initial purchase or acquisition of the apparatus  10 , it would be installed and utilized as indicated in  FIGS. 1 through 4 . 
     The method of installing and utilizing the apparatus  10  may be achieved by performing the following steps: moving and locating the apparatus  10  thereto a desired location thereupon a patio, deck, or flat ground surface; installing lighting  65  therewith a plurality of fasteners  62  in a desired pattern along a bottom surface of the umbrella roof  40  to produce a desired lighting effect, if not previously installed; routing a conventional electrical cord from an existing electrical source thereto the male plug  50 , thereby energizing both the lighting  65  and the duplex outlets  55 ; adding various cups  100 , bottles  110 , glasses  120 , and other eating and drinking accessories thereinto the cup holder  31 , the storage shelf  33 , and the glass hanger  32  based upon a user&#39;s preferences; plugging various appliances and devices thereinto the duplex outlets  55  as desired; occupying the seats  21 ,  22  by utilizing the convenient openings therebetween said seats  21 ,  22  enabling even elderly or encumbered participants easy access; and, sitting and enjoying the protection and convenience afforded a user of the invention  10  when picnicking with family and friends. 
     The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention and method of use to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions or substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but is intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.