Abstract:
A pair of platform assemblies, each platform assembly having a platform and a pair of supporting members extending downward from an underside of the platform. The elements of the platform assemblies can be assembled into a shipping configuration, a table configuration, and a bench configuration. In a shipping configuration, the platform assemblies are abutted and joined along a mating edge. The plurality of legs are inserted into leg receiving channels of each platform and the pair of platforms are joined together to form the shipping configuration. In a table configuration, the legs are assembled to a platform in a generally perpendicular relation. In a bench configuration, one platform is oriented horizontally with legs assembled thereto extending downward therefrom, and a second platform is oriented vertically and assembled to an upper surface of the horizontally oriented platform. The bench and table configurations can be covered for aesthetic improvements.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a Continuation-In-Part Patent Application claiming the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/271,324, filed on Oct. 12, 2011 (scheduled to issue as U.S. Pat. No. 8,601,954 on Dec. 10, 2013), which is a Continuation-In-Part Patent Application claiming the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 12/983,316, filed on Jan. 2, 2011 (now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,459,189 on Jun. 11, 2013), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/291,897, filed on Jan. 2, 2010, which is incorporated herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a display and shipping apparatus, and more particularly, a shipping apparatus that converts to a display table, the apparatus being used for transporting objects to trade shows and displaying objects at the trade shows and similar events. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention pertains to a shipping apparatus that converts to a presentation table for transporting to and displaying objects at trade shows and similar events. Conversely, the table assembly (provided by a pair of tables) is converted to a shipping apparatus. 
     Marketing planning must include a means for transporting samples and other display materials to and from promotional expositions. 
     An exposition, commonly referred to as a trade show or trade fair, is an exhibition organized so that companies in a specific industry can showcase and demonstrate their latest products, service, study activities of rivals, and examine recent trends and opportunities. Some expositions are open to the public (classified as “Public”), while others are limited to company representatives (members of the trade) and members of the press (classified as “Trade only”). The expositions are held on a continuing basis in virtually all markets, normally attracting companies from around the globe. To understand the size of these expositions, there are currently over 2500 expositions held annually in the United States. 
     Expositions often involve a considerable marketing investment by the participating companies. Costs include space rental, design and construction of trade show displays, transportation of the displays and materials, telecommunications and networking, travel, accommodations, and promotional literature and items to give to attendees. In addition, costs are incurred at the show for services such as electrical, booth cleaning, Internet services, and drayage (also known as material handling). 
     Several shipping pallets are known to include a series of legs that attach in a vertical orientation to the pallet platform. The legs must be packaged with the display materials for transport to and from the expositions. The leg attachment interface is generally considered as acceptable, but not solid. Further, the leg interface is not self-stabilizing. 
     When shipping material to an exposition or other event, the shipping material is normally stored in a location outside of the display arena. When collapsing and preparing to return the display, the personnel need to wait until the shipping materials are returned from the stored location. 
     Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for a device that provides both display capabilities and shipping capabilities to aid in preparation, presentation, and closure of an exposition. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention overcomes the deficiencies of the known art and the problems that remain unsolved by providing a method and respective apparatus for shipping and display of items to and from exhibitions. 
     In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the invention consists of a display table and shipping platform apparatus comprising: 
     a first platform assembly; 
     a second platform assembly; 
     each platform assembly comprising a platform and a pair of leg receiving frame members disposed upon an underside of each platform, said pair of leg receiving frame members being parallel and symmetrically arranged to an underside of each platform; 
     at least one leg receiving aperture provided through a sidewall of the leg receiving frame members; and 
     at least two leg subassemblies, each leg subassembly comprising a pair of legs being pivotally attached proximate a central portion of the legs, 
     wherein the leg receiving frame members are formed for receiving and storing the leg subassemblies therein. 
     In a second aspect, the leg receiving frame members of the first platform align with the leg receiving frame members of the second platform when the first and second platforms are abutted, wherein the inserted legs provide support across a joint formed between both the first and second platforms when the display table and shipping platform apparatus is assembled in a shipping configuration. 
     Yet another aspect, the platform assemblies further comprise at least one platform-to-platform attachment interface for securing two adjacent platform assemblies together. 
     While another aspect, the platform-to-platform attachment interface further comprising a slot having a pin aperture disposed at each end of the slot and a rectangular “U” shaped securing pin that is inserted through the two pin apertures. 
     With yet another aspect, a wobble brace is provided, being assembled between each pair of leg subassemblies. The wobble brace is preferably assembled between the pivot and the attachment shoulder of the leg subassemblies. The wobble brace is inserted into a receiving aperture, said receiving aperture being respectively located. 
     Yet another aspect, a wobble brace storage slot is provided within at least one of the legs for receiving and storing one or more wobble brace during shipping. 
     Regarding another aspect, the legs of the leg subassemblies are rotated into an “X” configuration and the shoulders are inserted through the leg receiving apertures of each of the bracket assemblies. 
     In yet another aspect, each bracket assembly further comprises an interior leg receiving aperture and a respective exterior leg-receiving aperture. 
     Another aspect includes a shoulder stop tab located on an exterior flange of each of the bracket assemblies for limiting motion of the shoulder of each leg. 
     In another aspect, a handle aperture is provided through the platform. The handle aperture is preferably centrally positioned proximate a longer edge of the platform. It is understood that any handle design can be integrated with the platform assembly. 
     While another aspect allows the conversion between a table configuration and a shipping configuration (and vice versa) to be accomplished without the need to any tools. 
     With another aspect is a reduction or elimination of a need for storage of the shipping materials. 
     In accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, the invention consists of a display table and shipping platform apparatus comprising: 
     a first platform assembly; 
     a second platform assembly; 
     each platform assembly comprising a platform and a pair of leg receiving frame sections provided upon an underside of each platform, said pair of leg receiving frame members being parallel and symmetrically arranged to an underside of each platform; 
     at least one leg receiving aperture provided through a distal wall of the leg receiving frame sections; and 
     at least four leg subassemblies, each leg subassembly comprising an assembly pin extending from an end of a leg body, 
     wherein the leg receiving frame sections are formed for receiving and storing the leg subassemblies therein in a manner whereby the leg subassemblies provide support to the first platform assembly and second platform assembly in a shipping configuration. 
     In a second aspect, the assembly pin extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the leg body. 
     Yet another aspect, the system comprises four legs, and each leg receiving frame section of each platform assembly is of a size and shape to snugly receive two legs. 
     While another aspect, the system comprises eight legs, and each leg receiving frame section of each platform assembly is of a size and shape to snugly receive four legs. 
     With yet another aspect, each leg receiving frame section further comprises a first leg receiving aperture through a distal wall and a second leg receiving aperture integrated into a lower portion of a platform section. The first leg receiving aperture and the second leg receiving aperture are spatially arranged. 
     Whereas in another aspect, the display table and shipping platform apparatus comprises four (4) leg receiving apertures integrated into each of the two platform assemblies and eight (8) total leg subassemblies. 
     In yet another aspect, the display table and shipping platform apparatus comprises two (2) leg receiving apertures integrated into each of the two platform assemblies and four (4) total leg subassemblies. 
     Yet another aspect, each platform section further comprises a plurality of platform reinforcing features to increase the rigidity of the platform. In one embodiment, the platform reinforcing features are cylindrically shaped cavities extending into an underside of the platform. 
     With yet another aspect, the leg receiving apertures further comprises a leg shoulder receptacle for receiving a leg assembly pin transition. The interface between the leg shoulder receptacle and the leg assembly pin transition retains the leg assembly in a desired rotation. 
     In another aspect, the platform assembly further comprises a central support element, the central support element comprising a central support end, wherein the central support end is coplanar with the shipping platform support surface. 
     In accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention, the invention consists of a display table and shipping platform apparatus comprising: 
     a first platform assembly; 
     a second platform assembly; 
     each platform assembly comprising:
         a platform section having a platform upper surface, a platform lower surface, a mating edge, a distal edge located opposite the mating edge, a pair of lateral edges extending perpendicular between the mating edge and the distal edge, and a thickness,   a pair of platform support sections, each platform support section extending downward from an underside of each platform proximate the respective lateral edge, and   a plurality of leg receiving apertures, each leg receiving aperture extending into each of said platform sections from said mating edge;       

     at least one leg receiving aperture provided through the mating edge of the platform section; and 
     at least four leg subassemblies, each leg subassembly comprising an assembly interface segment extending from an end of a leg body segment, 
     wherein the at least one leg receiving aperture are formed for receiving and storing the leg subassemblies therein in a manner whereby the leg subassemblies provide support to the first platform assembly and second platform assembly in a shipping configuration. 
     In a second aspect, at least one leg receiving aperture further comprises at least four leg receiving apertures; one leg receiving aperture for receiving each of the at least four leg subassemblies. 
     Yet another aspect, each of the at least one leg receiving aperture being sized and shaped to receive a plurality of leg subassemblies. 
     While another aspect, each leg assembly is formed comprising a continuous cylindrically shaped body segment and assembly interface segment. 
     With yet another aspect, each platform further comprises a plurality of channel defining slots. The slots reference the locations of the leg storage channels. 
     Whereas in another aspect, the leg storage channels are arranged parallel to a lateral edge of the platform 
     In yet another aspect, each platform further comprises a pair of central support elements extending downward from an underside of the platform. Each central support element comprises a central support end, wherein the central support end is coplanar with a shipping platform support surface of each platform support section. The central support elements are spaced apart to receive the at least four leg subassemblies. 
     Yet another aspect, each platform support sections comprises an interior facing surface, wherein a distance between opposing interior facing surfaces of the pair of platform support sections is proximate a length of the leg assembly. 
     With yet another aspect, the at least four leg subassemblies are placed within an area defined between the opposing interior facing surfaces of the pair of platform support sections and opposing faces of the pair of central support elements. 
     In another aspect, the at least one leg receiving aperture is formed having a depth that is approximate one-half the length of any of the at least four leg subassemblies. 
     In yet another aspect, a pair of platform assemblies can be assembled together forming a bench configuration. 
     While in another aspect, the legs are inserted into apertures formed through the base or horizontal platform assembly and into the leg storage channels of a back or vertical platform assembly. 
     With another aspect, one or more platform assemblies can be covered with a material cover. The cover can be shaped to cover one or more platform assemblies. 
     These and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the attached drawings and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, which follow. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The preferred embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings provided to illustrate and not to limit the invention, where like designations denote like elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  presents an isometric view of a display table and shipping platform apparatus shown in a shipping configuration; 
         FIG. 2  presents a bottom side planar view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus of  FIG. 1 , shown in a shipping configuration; 
         FIG. 3  presents a side elevation view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus of  FIG. 1 , shown in a shipping configuration; 
         FIG. 4  presents a sectioned end elevation of the display table and shipping platform apparatus taken along section  4 - 4  of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 5  presents a side elevation view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus of  FIG. 1 , shown in a display table configuration; 
         FIG. 6  presents an isometric underside view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus of  FIG. 1 , shown in a display table configuration; 
         FIG. 7  presents an isometric view detailing a leg to platform attachment interface; 
         FIG. 8  presents an isometric view detailing a leg to platform attachment interface, further illustrating a leg locking tab; 
         FIG. 9  presents an isometric topside view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus of  FIG. 1 , shown in a display table configuration; 
         FIG. 10  presents an isometric view of a pair of tables assembled together mating the longer edges of the platforms to extend the depth of the display surface; 
         FIG. 11  presents an isometric view of a plurality of tables assembled together mating the longer edges of the platforms to extend the depth of the display surface and mating the shorter edges of the platforms to extend the length of the display surface; 
         FIG. 12  presents a planar top view of an exemplary platform-to-platform attachment interface; 
         FIG. 13  presents sectioned end elevation of the exemplary platform-to-platform attachment interface taken along section  13 - 13  of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 14  presents a flow diagram detailing a platform to table conversion process; 
         FIG. 15  presents an isometric view of a second exemplary display table and shipping platform apparatus shown in a shipping configuration; 
         FIG. 16  presents a bottom isometric view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus originally introduced in  FIG. 15 , shown in an exploded assembly view configuration; 
         FIG. 17  presents a sectioned side view illustrating one leg inserted into a leg receptacle for a table configuration and four legs inserted into the platform apparatus for a shipment configuration; 
         FIG. 18  presents a bottom isometric view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus originally introduced in  FIG. 15 , shown in an exploded assembly view during a shipping configuration conversion; 
         FIG. 19  presents an isometric view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus originally introduced in  FIG. 15  shown in a display configuration; and 
         FIG. 20  presents an isometric exploded assembly view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus originally introduced in  FIG. 15 , shown in a coffee table configuration; 
         FIG. 21  presents an isometric exploded assembly view of an enhanced version of the display table and shipping platform apparatus; 
         FIG. 22  presents an isometric view of another alternate embodiment of the display table and shipping platform apparatus, wherein the legs are located within cavities through the platform section thereof; 
         FIG. 23  presents a side section view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus introduced in  FIG. 22 , wherein the legs are located within cavities through the platform section thereof; 
         FIG. 24  presents an isometric view of the display table and shipping platform apparatus introduced in  FIG. 22 , detailing a distribution configuration; 
         FIG. 25  presents an isometric exploded assembly view of a pair of shipping platforms being configured into a seating bench; 
         FIG. 26  presents an assembled isometric view of the pair of shipping platforms configured into the seating bench; and 
         FIG. 27  presents an isometric exploded assembly view of an exemplary platform cover for placement over the platform assembly. 
     
    
    
     Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular embodiments, features, or elements. Specific structural and functional details, dimensions, or shapes disclosed herein are not limiting but serve as a basis for the claims and for teaching a person of ordinary skill in the art the described and claimed features of embodiments of the present invention. The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. 
     For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “rear”, “right”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in  FIG. 1 . Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. 
     An exemplary display table and shipping platform apparatus  100  is illustrated in a transport or shipping configuration as presented in  FIGS. 1 through 4 . The display table and shipping platform apparatus  100  comprises a first platform assembly  110  and a second platform assembly  210  being assembled via a plurality of platform-to-platform attachment interfaces  130 . Each platform assembly  110 ,  210  is fabricated having a pair of bracket assemblies  120  assembled to an underside of a platform  112  in a parallel arrangement. The bracket assemblies  120  are spaced to allow forks of a standard pallet jack to be inserted between facing sidewalls of the bracket assembly  120 . 
     The bracket assembly  120  is fabricated having a leg receiving frame member  122  forming a leg storage channel  124 . The leg storage channel  124  is preferably of a shape and size to receive a pair of leg subassemblies  140  as illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 4 . The preferred shape of the leg receiving frame member  122  comprises a box section having a pair of bracket mounting flanges  123  extending outward from a mounting edge of the box section. The bracket mounting flange  123  is utilized for attaching the bracket assembly  120  to the platform assembly  110 . The bracket assembly  120  is attached to the platform assembly  110  via any form of mechanical fastener, including screws, bolts, adhesive, and the like. A pair of interior leg receiving aperture  126  and exterior leg receiving aperture  128  are formed through the sidewalls of the leg receiving frame member  122  for receiving the leg subassembly  140 . Details of the apertures  126 ,  128  and assembly will be described at a later point in the disclosure. A leg storage end cap  125  can be provided at one end of the bracket assembly  120 . The leg storage end cap  125  ensures the leg subassemblies  140  remains within the leg storage channel  124  of the bracket assembly  120 . The leg storage end cap  125  can be solid, partially covering the open end of the leg storage channel  124 , affixed, removable, and the like. 
     The leg subassemblies  140  are fabricated having a first leg  142 , and a second leg  144  being pivotally assembled via a leg attachment pivot member  146 . The ends of the legs are preferably shaped having the shoulder end  148  cut at an angle for insertion into the leg receiving apertures  126 ,  128 . A foot end can be shaped in any desirable shape for adequately supporting the display table and shipping platform apparatus  100  when in a table configuration. 
     A platform handle  114  can be provided through the platform  112  offering the user a location from gripping the platform  112 , securing strapping, and the like. It is understood that any handle design can be integrated with the platform assembly. 
     A pair of pinned attachment interfaces  132  secures the first platform assembly  110  to the second platform assembly  210 . The second platform assembly  210  is assembled comprising the same components of the first platform assembly  110 . Like features of second platform assembly  210  and first platform assembly  110  are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral ‘2’. The first platform assembly  110  and second platform assembly  210  are mating components, wherein each being preferably the same shape, size, and configuration. The platform assemblies  110 ,  210  are designed positioning each bracket assembly  120  equidistant from, and parallel to, a centerline extending perpendicularly from a center point of a mating (longer) edge of the platform  112 . This configuration allows the user to position the mating edge  116  of the first platform assembly  110  butting against a mating edge  216  of the second platform assembly  210 . A distal edge  118  is parallel to and located opposite the mating edge  116 . Similarly, a distal edge  218  is parallel to and located opposite the mating edge  216 . The first platform bracket assembly  120  aligns with the second platform bracket assembly  220  forming a single storage channel for the leg subassemblies  140  as best illustrated in  FIG. 4 . Besides storage, the leg subassemblies  140  create a beam, providing structural support to the display table and shipping platform apparatus  100 . 
     In the preferred embodiment, the platform  112  is fabricated of wood, such as ¾″ or 1″ plywood. The edges would be finished to remove sharp edges, minimize splintering, and avoid any injury to others. Features such as the platform handle  114  and platform-to-platform attachment interface  130  can be machined into the platform  112  via any machining process. The platform  112  can alternately be fabricated of a moldable material such as recycled plastics via a molding process. Features such as the platform handle  114  and platform-to-platform attachment interface  130  would be formed therein during the molding process. The bracket assembly  120  is preferably fabricated of a single formed metal sheet. The apertures  126 ,  128  would be stamped through the material prior to shaping. Alternately, the material can be extruded and subsequently machined. The leg storage end cap  125  can be formed from the single metal sheet and secured into positioned via a welding process, a mechanical fastener, and the like. Alternately, the leg storage end cap  125  can be removably attached to the leg receiving frame member  122  via any reasonable mechanical interface. The leg subassemblies  140  are fabricated having a pair of wooden legs  142 ,  144  being pivotally assembled via a pivot fastener  146 . The pivot fastener  146  can be fabricated of metal, plastic, wood, and the like. The bracket assemblies  120  are assembled to the underside of the platform  112  via a series of mechanical fasteners, such as wood screws, bolts, adhesive, and the like. 
     The exemplary display table and shipping platform apparatus  100  is illustrated in a table or display configuration as presented in  FIGS. 5 through 9 . A worker disengages the platform-to-platform attachment interface  130  allowing the platform assembly  110  to separate from the platform assembly  210 . The separation provides access to the leg subassemblies  140  stored within the leg storage channels  124 ,  224 . The worker removes the leg subassemblies  140  from the leg storage channels  124 ,  224 . The worker removes the wobble braces  150  from the wobble brace storage slots  152 , setting them temporarily aside. The first leg  142  and second leg  144  are then pivoted into an “X” shape. Each shoulder  148  is inserted a respective set of leg receiving apertures  126 ,  128 , as detailed in  FIG. 7 . The shoulder  148  is positioned abutting a leg stop tab  129 . The shoulder  148  can also be wedged into the exterior leg receiving aperture  128 , providing a frictional interface between the surface of the shoulder  148  contacting the underside of the platform  112  and the opposite edge of the exterior leg receiving aperture  128 . A leg locking tab  154  can optionally be attached to at least one leg  142 ,  144  proximate the respective shoulder  148 . The thickness of the combined leg  142 ,  144  and leg locking tab  154  equals a width of the interior leg receiving aperture  126 , allowing for the worker to slip the leg locking tab  154  through the interior leg receiving aperture  126 . The wobble brace  150  is then installed spanning between the respective pair of legs  142 ,  144  as best illustrated in  FIG. 6 . The desired wobble brace  150  are fabricated from dowels. Each wobble brace  150  is inserted into a pair of holes drilled into the legs  142 ,  144 . A tapered lead-in may be formed about one of the pair of holes to aid in the insertion of the wobble brace  150 . The wobble brace  150  separates the legs  142 ,  144 . The wobble brace  150  also engages the leg locking tab  154  against an interior surface of the leg receiving frame member  122 , locking the shoulder  148  in position. The worker then inverts the table version of the display table and shipping platform apparatus  100 , as illustrated in  FIG. 9 . It is understood that a slot or notch may be provided in each leg  142 ,  144  as an alternate to the leg locking tab  154 . 
     The “X” configuration of the leg subassemblies  140  provides an additional benefit. As weight is added to the table, the legs are rotated outward. The rotation increases the wedge of the shoulder  148  into the exterior leg receiving aperture  128 , strengthening the interface. 
     To enlarge the display surface, the worker can attached a plurality of tables  100  together, as demonstrated in the exemplary illustrations shown in  FIGS. 10 through 13 . The series of platform assemblies  110 ,  210 ,  310 ,  410  are the same assemblies, being numbered accordingly for clarity in defining the assembly process. The third platform assembly  310  is assembled comprising the same components of the other platform assemblies  110 ,  210 . Like features of third platform assembly  310  and other platform assemblies  110 ,  210  are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral ‘3’. The fourth platform assembly  410  is assembled comprising the same components of the other platform assemblies  110 ,  210 ,  310 . Like features of fourth platform assembly  410  and platform assemblies  110 ,  210 ,  310  are numbered the same except preceded by the numeral ‘4’. The depth of the display table can be increased by joining the first platform assembly  110  with the second platform assembly  210  along the longer edge via a series of pinned attachment interfaces  132  as illustrated in  FIG. 10 . The length of the table can be increased by joining the first platform assembly  110  with the fourth platform assembly  410  (similarly joining a second platform assembly  210  with a third platform assembly  310 ) along the shorter edge via a series of pinned attachment interfaces  132  as understood from the illustration of  FIG. 11 . The exemplary configuration allows the worker to create a wider and longer table by joining a plurality of tables  110 ,  210 ,  310 ,  410  together as illustrated in  FIG. 11 . 
     The exemplary joining method utilizes a first attachment interface recession half  134  mated with a second attachment interface recession half  234 . A first pin aperture  136  is disposed through the platform  112 , and preferably aligned and continuing through an outer bracket mounting flange  123 . Similarly a second pin aperture  236  is disposed through the platform  212 , and preferably aligned and continuing through an outer bracket mounting flange  223 . A securing pin  138  is formed in a square “U” shape with each end being inserted through each pin aperture  136 ,  236 , forming the pinned attachment interface  132 , securing the platform  112  with the platform  212 . A finger clearance is formed by each of the first removal finger clearance half  135  and second removal finger clearance half  235 , giving the worker the ability to access, grip, and remove the securing pin  138  from the pinned attachment interface  132 . 
     A table conversion flow diagram  600  is illustrated in  FIG. 14 . A worker initiates the process by separating  602  the two platform assemblies  112 ,  212 . The leg subassemblies  140  are removed from the leg storage channel  124  in accordance with a leg removal step  604 . The first leg  142  and second leg  144  are pivoted into an “X” configuration via a leg expansion step  606 . The shoulder  148  is inserted into the leg receiving apertures  126 ,  128  of the bracket assembly  120  following a first leg subassembly insertion step  608 . The leg insertion step is repeated  610 , assembly a second leg subassembly to the platform assembly  110 . A wobble brace  150  is assembled between the pair of legs as directed in an anti-wobble brace insertion step  612 . The worker checks to ensure the leg subassembly  140  are properly secured to the platform assembly  110 , and upon verification, the assembly is inverted  614  into a table configuration. The process is repeated  616 , assembling additional table assemblies. The plurality of table assemblies are joined  618  as desired to increase the width, the length, or both. 
     One of the benefits of the display table and shipping platform apparatus  100  is that the apparatus  100  resolves the issue for storing and retrieving the shipping materials. The display table and shipping platform apparatus  100  remains at the display without taking up valuable space. It is common to have union personnel aiding marking people at expositions. This practice limits the accessibility to stored materials during and after the exposition to only a select few individuals. Due to the limited number of people allowed to access and retrieve the stored materials, the time required to retrieve the materials is significantly higher. The shipping display table assembly  100  easily converts between a shipping configuration and a display configuration without any tooling. 
     An alternate exemplary embodiment introduced as a display table and shipping platform apparatus  300 ,  400 , which is illustrated in  FIGS. 15 through 20 , with enhancements introduced in a display table and shipping platform apparatus  500  illustrated in  FIG. 21 . The display table and shipping platform apparatus  300  and display table and shipping platform apparatus  400  comprise elements similar to those incorporated in the display table and shipping platform apparatus  100 ,  200 , wherein like elements are numbered the same, except preceded by the numerals “3” and “4” respectively. It is further noted that the display table and shipping platform apparatus  300  and display table and shipping platform apparatus  400  are like, simply utilized in a mirrored orientation. 
     A platform assembly  310  is fabricated comprising a platform section  312 . The platform section  312  is defined by a pair of parallel lateral edges and a pair of parallel longitudinal edges, wherein the lateral edges are perpendicular to the longitudinal edges. A leg storage section  320  extends downward from the platform section  312 , each leg storage section  320  being parallel to the lateral edge. The leg storage section  320  includes a leg receiving frame  322  having a leg storage channel  324  passing therethrough, the leg receiving frame  322  being either integrated into the platform assembly  310  (as shown), integrated as a unitary construction, or provided as a separate member subsequently attached to the platform section  312 . A leg storage end cap  325  can be removably attached to, permanently affixed to, or integrated into the leg storage section  320 . Each leg storage section  320  can be reinforced with the inclusion of one or more leg storage reinforcing ribs  360 . At least one platform-to-platform attachment interface  330  is provided along an adjoining edge  316  of the platform section  312 . An optional platform handle  314  may be formed within or through the platform section  312 . The platform assembly  310  can be formed of any material determined to be suitable for the applications. In one exemplary embodiment, the platform assembly  310  is fabricated of a molded fiber reinforced plastic. 
     The platform assembly  310 ,  410  can be configured in either a table configuration ( FIG. 19 ) or a shipping platform configuration ( FIGS. 15 ,  18 ). The platform assembly  310  and platform assembly  410  are joined by the platform-to-platform attachment interface  330 . An exemplary embodiment of the platform-to-platform attachment interface  330  can be similar to the platform-to-platform attachment interface  130  and respective attachment hardware described in  FIGS. 12 and 13  above. 
     The display table and shipping platform apparatus  300  includes a series of leg assemblies  340 . The quantity of leg assemblies  340  is determined respective to the design. The leg assemblies  340  are used as legs to support the display table and shipping platform apparatus  300  or combined display table and shipping platform apparatus  300  and display table and shipping platform apparatus  400  configured as a table ( FIG. 16 , left side of  FIG. 17 ) and as beams to support the combined display table and shipping platform apparatus  300  and display table and shipping platform apparatus  400  configured as a shipping platform (right side of  FIG. 17 ,  FIG. 18 ). Each leg assembly  340  is formed comprising a leg body section  342  having a leg assembly pin  348  extending from a first end and a leg foot  349  defined at an opposite end. 
     The table configuration requires an interface for assembling the leg assemblies  340  to the platform assembly  310 . A plurality of first leg receiving apertures  326  is provided through an exposed lower surface of the leg storage section  320 . A respective second leg receiving aperture  328  may be provided for each respective first leg receiving aperture  326 . The second leg receiving aperture  328  is formed within an upper portion of the leg storage channel  324 . The first leg receiving aperture  326  and respective second leg receiving aperture  328  are sized and shaped to receive the leg assembly pin  348  of the leg assembly  340 . In the exemplary embodiment, the second leg receiving aperture  328  can include a leg stop  329 . The distal end of the leg assembly pin  348  would seat against the leg stop  329 , placing the leg foot  349  equidistant from the platform section  312 . This ensures the leg assemblies  340  are vertically positioned equally, placing the leg foot  349  into a co-planar arrangement. The table can include four (4) leg assemblies  340  for each platform assembly  310 ,  410  (as shown) or four (4) for the combined platform assembly  310  and platform assembly  410 , where the leg assemblies  340  would be located at each of the four (4) corners. 
     The shipping platform configuration requires an interface for utilizing the leg assemblies  340  as a support beam between the combined platform assembly  310  and platform assembly  410 . Each leg storage channel  324  would be sized to snuggly receive half of the total number of leg assemblies  340 . The leg assemblies  340  form a beam, supporting the platform assembly  310  and platform assembly  410  when assembled together. The leg assemblies  340  are retained within the leg storage channel  324  by a leg storage end cap  325  located at each exterior end thereof. The platform assembly  310  and platform assembly  410  can be joined forming the shipping platform, wherein the leg assemblies  340  are subsequently inserted into and through the leg storage channel  324 . The leg assemblies  340  are retained within the leg storage channel  324  by securing one leg storage end cap  325  to each of the openings of each respective leg storage channel  324 . In an alternate embodiment, the leg storage end cap  325  is preassembled or integrated into the platform assembly  310 . The leg assemblies  340  are inserted into the leg storage channel  324  of one of the platform assembly  310 ,  410 . The remaining platform assembly  310 ,  410  is added to the assembly by sliding the exposed portion of the leg assemblies  340  into the leg storage channel  324  thereof. The platform assembly  310  and platform assembly  410  are brought together and secured using the platform-to-platform attachment interface  330  as described above. It is noted, as illustrated in  FIGS. 17 and 18 , that the leg assemblies  340  can be inserted in alternating orientations to balance the weight of the shipping platform from side to side. 
     The platform assembly  310  can include a plurality of platform reinforcing feature  362  extending inward from a bottom surface of the platform section  312 , wherein the platform reinforcing feature  362  increase the rigidity across the platform section  312 . The platform reinforcing feature  362  can be formed in any shape and dimension to increase the rigidity or stiffness of the platform section  312 . It is preferred that the platform reinforcing feature  362  extends inward, but not through the platform section  312  as illustrated in  FIG. 17 . 
     A leg assembly  390 , introduced in  FIG. 20 , can be utilized in place of the leg assembly  340 . The leg assembly  390  comprises a first leg assembly pin  396  extending from a first end of a leg body section  392  and a second leg assembly pin  398  extending from the opposite end of the leg body section  392 , wherein the first leg assembly pin  396 ,  398  are both sized and shaped to mate with the first leg receiving aperture  326 . This enables the user to assembly the display table and shipping platform apparatus  300  in an alternate configuration, as illustrated in  FIG. 20 . The first leg assembly pin  396  would be inserted into a first leg receiving aperture  326  of a platform assembly  310  used a base member. The second leg assembly pin  398  would be inserted into a first leg receiving aperture  326  of a second platform assembly  310  used as a tabletop member. This configuration provides additional support to the leg assembly  390 . 
     The display table and shipping platform apparatus  300 ,  400  can be enhanced with the inclusion of several features incorporated into a display table and shipping platform apparatus  500  as illustrated in  FIG. 21 . The display table and shipping platform apparatus  500  comprise elements similar to those incorporated in the display table and shipping platform apparatus  300 ,  400 , wherein like elements are numbered the same, except preceded by the numeral “5”. One or more central support elements  570  can be integrated into a lower portion of the platform assembly  510 . The central support element  570  extends downward positioning a central support end  579  to be coplanar between each shipping platform support surface  519  of the leg storage section  520 . The central support element  570  provides a central support to the platform assembly  510  when arranged into a shipping platform configuration. Additionally, the central support element  570  stiffens the platform portion  512  spanning between the pair of leg storage sections  520 . 
     Each leg assembly  540  includes a leg assembly pin  548  extending from a leg body section  542  along a central longitudinal axis. An assembly pin transition  547  is provided between the leg body section  542  and the leg assembly pin  548 . A leg shoulder receptacle  527  is integrated as a recess extending inward from the shipping platform support surface  519  about each first leg receiving aperture  526 . The leg shoulder receptacle  527  is sized and shaped to receive the assembly pin transition  547 . It is desired that the cross sectional shape of the assembly pin transition  547  is non-circular, wherein when the assembly pin transition  547  is seated within the leg shoulder receptacle  527 , the leg assembly  540  would be refrained from rotating. 
     The display table and shipping platform apparatus  300 ,  400 ,  500  can be modified positioning a plurality of leg storage channels  624  through a platform assembly  610  portion of a display table and shipping platform apparatus  600  as illustrated in  FIGS. 21 through 23 . The display table and shipping platform apparatus  600  comprise elements similar to those incorporated in the display table and shipping platform apparatus  300 ,  400 ,  500  wherein like elements are numbered the same, except preceded by the numeral “6”. 
     The plurality of leg storage channels  624  is formed to individually receive a respective leg assembly  640  as illustrated in  FIGS. 21 and 22 . Each of the leg assemblies  640  is formed by boring a channel through a mating edge  616 , extending into a central portion of the platform section  612 . A channel defining slots  680  can outline each leg storage channel  624 . The channel defining slots  680  is included during a molding process used to form a platform support section  620 . Each leg storage channel  624  would be equally spaced and parallel to a surface of the platform section  612 . Each of the platform support extension  622  can be either solid or hollow and supported via a framing. A leg receiving aperture  626  would be either molded into or formed using a drilling, boring or similar process; the leg receiving aperture  626  terminating at a leg stop  629 . The leg receiving aperture  626  would be sized and shaped to receive a portion of the leg assembly  640 , as illustrated in  FIG. 23 . Each leg assembly  640  is inserted into a respective leg receiving aperture  626  configuring the display table and shipping platform apparatus  600  into a table. The display table and shipping platform apparatus  600  is converted into a shipping platform by inserting each leg assembly  640  into a respective leg storage channel  624  of a first platform assembly  610 , then sliding a second platform assembly  610  onto the assembly while inserting the exposed portion of each leg assembly  640  into a leg storage channel  624  of the second platform assembly  610 . 
     Each receptacle  624 ,  626  is preferably sized to snugly receive and retain a mating portion of the leg assembly  640 . The receptacles  624 ,  626  have a depth that is approximately ½ of the total length of the leg assembly  640 . In the exemplary embodiment, each leg assembly  640  is cylindrically shaped. The cylindrical shape enables fabrication of the receptacles  624 ,  626  using a simple machining process, such as drilling, boring, and the like. Alternately, a circular receptacle simplifies the design and fabrication of a mold. A series of channel defining slots  680  is formed during the molding process. The channel defining slots  680  can be used to reference the location of each of the leg storage channels  624 . It is understood that the leg storage channel  624  can be sized and shaped to receive multiple leg assemblies  640  if desired. 
     The display table and shipping platform apparatus  600  includes a pair of central support element  670 , which provides several functions:
         a) Increasing the rigidity of the platform assembly  610  across the platform span section,   b) Supporting the platform span section when placed in a shipping configuration, (the platform section  612  and central support end  679  are coplanar and contact the ground, thus supporting the span), and   c) Retain the leg assemblies  640  when placed therebetween for initial shipping and delivery from the manufacture to the end user.       

     A transverse span  672  is provided between the pair of central support elements  670 , wherein the transverse span  672  is consistent with a multiple of the total quantity of leg assemblies  640  provided with the display table and shipping platform apparatus  600 . A longitudinal span  674  is provided between the pair of platform support sections  620 , wherein the longitudinal span  674  is consistent with a length of the leg assemblies  640 . The leg assemblies  640  are positioned with an area defined by the transverse span  672  and longitudinal span  674  for initial shipping and delivery from the manufacture to the end user. 
     With a slight modification, the pair of platform sections  620  can be configured into a bench configuration  700 . A first platform support section  620  would be oriented horizontally and configured having four (4) leg assemblies  640  extending downward (as previously described) and a second platform support section  620  would be rotated into a generally vertical orientation and assembled to the first platform support section  620  forming an upward bench back. The modification introduces at least two (2) chair back support apertures  690  through an upper surface of a platform section  612 . Each of the chair back support apertures  690  are sized and shaped to receive a leg assembly  740 . Each of the at least two (2) chair back support apertures  690  would be located to align with a respective leg storage channel  624  of a second platform support section  620 . Each leg assembly  740  is similar to the leg assembly  640  (as previously described) while being shaped comprising a reduced diameter leg body segment  743  extending axially from a primary leg body segment  742 . A first leg assembly  740  is inserted into one chair back support aperture  690  and a second leg assembly  740  is inserted into a second chair back support aperture  690 . The second platform support section  620  is assembled to the first support section  620  by aligning each of the reduced diameter leg body segment  743  of the respective leg assemblies  740  with a respective leg storage channel  624  of the second platform support section  620 . The registration between the chair back support apertures  690  and the associated leg storage channels  624  aligns the outer edges of the second platform support section  620  with the outer edges of the first platform support section  620  and, preferably, a bottom surface  619  of the second platform support section  620  with a respective mating edge  616  of the first platform support section  620 . The second platform support section  620  is lowered to a position where a contacting mating edge  616  is resting against the platform section or upper surface  612 . The platform support section  620  can be perpendicular to the platform section or upper surface  612  or angled slightly rearward by providing the chair back support aperture  690  at a desired angle. The bench configuration  700  can be dressed or aesthetically enhanced by covering the first platform support section  620 , the second platform support section  620  or preferably both the first and second platform support sections  620  with a platform cover  800 . The platform cover  800  can be fabricated of any suitable material, including cloth, leather, vinyl, velvet, flexible plastic, and the like. The platform cover  800  can be manufactured by stitching the material into a shape resembling the shape of each platform support section  620 , including a top panel or segment  810 , a bottom panel or segment  811 , a first side panel or segment  812 , a second side panel or segment  813 , a front panel or segment  814 , and a rear panel or segment  815 . Collectively, the panels  810 ,  811 ,  812 ,  813 ,  814 ,  815  define an interior cavity  820 . The rear panel  815  includes an opening defined by a peripheral edge  818 . The opening provides access to the interior cavity  820 . A tightening element  822  can be assembled to a peripheral edge  818  of the platform cover  800 . The tightening element  822  can be a cording, elastic, buttons, dense hook and loop tape, and the like, where the tightening element  822  retains the cover on the platform support section  620 . Alternatively, at least a portion of the peripheral edge  818  of the platform cover  800  can be secured to the platform support section  620  using any suitable mechanical fastener, including dense hook and loop tape, snaps, hooks attached to an elastic strap, and the like. A series of assembly apertures  830  can be formed for passing each of the leg assemblies  740  through a respective panel, such as the bottom panel or segment  811 . The apertures can be reinforced by stitching, a bonded material, and the like. The platform cover  800  can be designed to cover one platform support section  620 , a pair of  620 , and the like. The platform cover  800  can be used for the bench configuration, table configuration or any other suitable application. 
     The above-described embodiments are merely exemplary illustrations of implementations set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the invention. Many variations, combinations, modifications or equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all the embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.