US20140202361A1

US20140202361A1 - Side Supported Foldable Panel Arrangement

Info

Publication number: US20140202361A1
Application number: US14/058,176
Authority: US
Inventors: Voytek Siwiec
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-10-18
Filing date: 2013-10-18
Publication date: 2014-07-24

Abstract

A side supported foldable panel arrangement for mounting on a workpiece, including at least a panel frame and at least a foldable support frame. The panel frame is pivotally and rotatably mounted to the workpiece. The foldable support frame is arranged for folding the panel frame between a stowed state in which the panel frame is folded to overlap with the foldable support frame and a deployed state in which the panel frame is unfolded to be sideward supported by the workplace and also supported by the foldable support frame which is supported by an environment supporting surface.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATION

This is a regular application that claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to a provisional application, application No. 61/715,822, filed on Oct. 18, 2012.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to any reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the United States Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

1. Field of Invention
The present invention relates to a foldable functional arrangement, and more particularly to a side supported foldable panel arrangement which is arranged for folding between a stowed state and a deployed state. The invention comprises at least a panel extended sideward from a wall, a pole, an environment supporting surface, and a supporting arrangement provided for supporting the panel in the deployed state. The panel arrangement is capable of using gravity help for storing and deploying instead of using heavy springs to help with movements, so that the panel arrangement feels very lightweight even if is quite heavy and is also convenient and safe to use because the panel arrangement can stop moving when no one is pushing or pulling, and can continue with very little force,
2. Description of Related Arts
Foldable functional arrangements such as foldable tables, foldable chairs and foldable beds are advantageous in that they are convenient to use and easy to store. A typical foldable functional arrangement comprises a panel arrangement and a folding arrangement for folding between a folded state and an unfolded state. Accordingly, when the foldable arrangement is in the unfolded state, the folding arrangement provides a support for the panel arrangement so that the panel arrangement is used for supporting items thereon or other uses. When the foldable arrangement is in the folded state, the foldable arrangement is overlappedly aligned with the panel arrangement to form a compact structure, so that the whole foldable panel arrangement is easy to store and saves space.
However, a special storage space is still required to provide a shelter for the foldable functional arrangement. For example, a conventional foldable table is folded into a compact structure and is stored in a designated place. When in use, the foldable table is then taken out or transferred to a desired place for application. In other words, move from one place to another place is actually time-consuming and requires a significant effort. A foldable table that is already in the desire position would eliminate this unnecessary time and effort.
In addition, a typical foldable functional arrangement, such as a foldable table, generally comprises a panel and a plurality of foldable legs that can fold between a stowed state and a deployed state. Accordingly, the pluralities of foldable legs are independent of each other and each of them is used to support one portion of the panel. For instance, a foldable table may comprise a tabletop and two or four foldable legs supporting four corners of the tabletop. This structure is fragile and can deform easily when a relatively large pressing force is applied on the table top. That is because the support is mainly concentrated on the four corners or two lateral sides, but the central portion of the tabletop lacks support and thus the support is uneven and easily damageable.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The main object of the present invention is to provide a side supported, foldable panel arrangement comprising a panel frame, which is movably mounted to a workpiece, and a foldable support frame that can fold between a stowed state and a deployed state. In the stowed state, the panel is folded to align with the workpiece, wherein in the deployed state, the panel frame, which is supported by the foldable support frame, is sideward supported by the workpiece so that a rigid and stable structure is formed for the foldable panel arrangement to perform its function.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported, foldable panel arrangement, wherein the structure of the foldable panel arrangement is suitable for many uses such as a foldable bed, a foldable table, a foldable desk, a foldable chair, or solar panels.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported, foldable panel arrangement, wherein the foldable support frame comprises of one or more support members pivotally and movably connected to a bottom surface of the panel arrangement. These members support the panel arrangement in the deployed state and since a side of the foldable panel arrangement is supported by this workpiece, the panel can be away from this side supported side; thus the locations of the support members can be optimized to provide a rigid and stable support.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported foldable panel arrangement where, unlike in conventional art where support elements would provide separate support functions, the supporting elements of the foldable support frame of the present invention are correlated with each other, so as to distribute forces applied on the panel. In other words, the plurality of supporting elements serves as a whole to provide a support to the panel frame, so that a more stable support is provided.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported, foldable panel arrangement, wherein the workpiece can be a wall, a single pole, or a corner, so that the installation is easy and the application of the foldable panel arrangement is broadened.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported, foldable panel arrangement, wherein the panel frame is movably mounted to the workpiece and is capable of providing a wide range of rotation angles, and a variety of configuration patterns of the foldable panel arrangement in the deployed state are provided. For example, when the workpiece is a single pole, even a 360 rotation can be provided.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported, foldable panel arrangement, wherein the panel frame may comprise a single panel, or a plurality of panels which are rotatably connected to one another. When the panel frame comprises a plurality of panels, the pluralities of panels are folded to overlap with each other in the stowed state to save room. In addition, a retaining mechanism between the panels may be provided to ensure the secure attachment between the pluralities of panels; for example, the retaining mechanism can be a magnetic.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported, foldable panel arrangement, wherein the connection between the panel and the support members, or the connection between two support members is respectively achieved by a stopper; therefore, the stability of the foldable panel arrangement in the two states is ensured by the stoppers.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported, foldable panel arrangement, wherein the foldable support frame can be formed with a stable triangular support frame, created by the plurality of support members, when the foldable panel is in the deployed state. Consequently, the secure support for the panel frame by the foldable support frame is guaranteed.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported, foldable panel arrangement, wherein suitable braces or stoppers between the support members and panels may be employed to enable the foldable panel arrangement to retain a position between the stowed state and the deployed state. In other words, the foldable panel arrangement can be fixed at a position between the stowed state and deployed state.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported foldable panel arrangement, wherein a slide arrangement is used for guiding the panel frame to move away or towards the workpiece, wherein the slide arrangement can be fixed angle wheels, rotating wheels, motorized wheels, wheels on tracks, rollers, slides, or even floating pontoons so that the foldable panel arrangement may be used on water.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported foldable panel arrangement, wherein a docking station is provided to detachably attach the side supported foldable panel arrangement so as to store more foldable panel arrangements in a small area.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported foldable panel arrangement, wherein the panel frame can perform as a self-standing frame via supporting by the foldable support frame without supporting by the workpiece W, which is unfolded and is supported by an environment supporting surface S.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a side supported foldable panel arrangement, wherein no complicated structure is required and the costs are also low so that the foldable panel arrangement is economical, and thus is suitable for a wide range of use.
Additional advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the description which follows, and may be realized by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particular point out in the appended claims.
According to the present invention, the foregoing and other objects and advantages are attained by a side supported, foldable panel arrangement for mounting on a workpiece comprising at least a panel frame and at least a foldable support frame. The panel frame is pivotally and rotatably mounted to the workpiece. The foldable support frame is arranged for folding the panel frame between a stowed state, in which the panel frame is folded to overlap with the foldable support frame, and a deployed state, in which the panel frame is unfolded to be sideward supported by the workpiece, and also supported by the foldable support frame, which is supported by an environment supporting surface.
Still further objects and advantages will become apparent from a consideration of the ensuing description and drawings.
These and other objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A to 1E are sectional views illustrating a foldable panel arrangement folding between a stowed state and a deployed state according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 2A to 2E are sectional views illustrating a foldable panel arrangement folding between a stowed state and a deployed state according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 3A to 3B are perspective views of a foldable panel arrangement according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 3C to 3E are sectional views of the foldable panel arrangement according to the above third preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 4A to 4B are perspective views illustrating a foldable panel arrangement according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 4C to 4E are sectional views of the foldable panel arrangement according to the above fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 5A to 5C are perspective views illustrating a foldable panel arrangement according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 5D to 5F are sectional views of the foldable panel arrangement according to the above fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 6A to 6B are perspective views illustrating the rotation operation of a foldable panel arrangement according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 7A to 7H are schematic views illustrating the rotation operation around a corner of a foldable panel arrangement according to a seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 8A to 8H are sectional views illustrating the folding operation of a foldable panel arrangement according to an eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 9A to 9C are sectional views of a foldable panel arrangement according to a ninth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 10A to 10C are schematic views illustrating a stopper for the foldable panel arrangement of the present invention.

FIGS. 11A to 11C are schematic views illustrating an alternative mode of the stopper for the foldable panel arrangement of the present invention.

FIGS. 12A to 2C are schematic views illustrating another alternative mode of the stopper for the foldable panel arrangement of the present invention.

FIGS. 13A to 13B are sectional views illustrating a structure of the supporting arrangement of the panel arrangement of the present invention.

FIGS. 14A to 14B are sectional views illustrating an alternative structure of the supporting arrangement of the panel arrangement of the present invention.

FIGS. 15A to 15B are sectional views illustrating another alternative structure of the supporting arrangement of the panel arrangement of the present invention.

FIGS. 16A to 16B are sectional views illustrating another alternative structure of the supporting arrangement of the panel arrangement of the present invention.

FIGS. 17A to 17E are sectional views illustrating a foldable panel arrangement folding between a stowed state and a deployed state according to a tenth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 18A to 18D are sectional views illustrating more foldable panel arrangements stacking up together via detachable docking stations according to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following description is disclosed to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the present invention. Preferable embodiments are provided in the following description only as examples and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The general principles defined in the following description would be applied to other embodiments, alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Referring to FIGS. 1A to 1E of the drawings, a foldable panel arrangement according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The foldable panel arrangement, which is a basic configuration of the present invention, comprises a panel frame 10 and a foldable support frame 20 folding between a stowed state and a deployed state. The panel frame 10 is rotatably mounted to a workpiece W. When the foldable panel arrangement is in the stowed state, the foldable support frame 20 is folded to direct the panel frame 10 to rotate with respect to the workpiece W so as to overlappedly align with the workpiece W. When the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, the panel frame 10 is side supported by the workpiece W and is also supported by the foldable support frame 20 which is unfolded and is supported by an environment supporting surface S.
Accordingly, the panel frame 10 is supported both in the side direction and the vertical direction, so that a pressing force applied on the panel frame 10 can be respectively delivered to the workpiece W, the environment supporting surface S along the body of the panel frame 10, and the foldable support frame 20 in the deployed state.
The panel frame 10 may comprises a plurality of panels 11 rotatably connected to one another. According to this preferred embodiment, the panel frame 10 comprises a first panel 111 and a second panel 112 which is rotatably connected to the first panel 111. The first panel 111 is sideward supported by the workpiece W. For instance, the first panel 111 is pivotally and rotatably extended from the workpiece W. The pivotal movement between the first panel 111 and the second panel 112 enables the second panel 112 to be folded to overlap with the first panel 111 in the stowed state. Accordingly, in the stowed state, the first panel 111 is rotated to be parallelly aligned with the workpiece W, as shown in FIG. 1E of the drawings.
FIGS. 1B to 1D illustrate the operation of folding the foldable panel arrangement from the deployed state to the stowed state. As illustrated in the drawings, the folding operation is achieved by the foldable support frame 20. Accordingly, the foldable support frame 20 comprises a plurality of support members 21 pivotally and rotatably connected to the panel frame 10 for folding between the stowed state and the deployed state.
According to this preferred embodiment of the present invention, the foldable support frame 20 comprises two support members 21 rotatably and pivotally connected to the first panel 111 and the second panel 112, respectively. Referring to FIGS. 1A to 1E of the drawings, a first end of each of the support members 21 is rotatably and pivotally connected to the first panel 111 or the second panel 112, and a second end thereof is connected to a slide arrangement 22 which is sliding on the environment supporting surface S when the foldable panel arrangement shifts between the stowed state and the deployed state. As illustrated in the drawings, when the foldable panel arrangement moves from the stowed state to the deployed state, the slide arrangement 22 slides away from the workpiece on the environment supporting surface S. When the foldable panel arrangement moves from the deployed state to the stowed state, the slide arrangement 22 slides toward the workpiece on the environment supporting surface S.
Accordingly, the plurality of support members 21 are used to vertically support the panel frame 10 in the deployed state, as shown in FIG. 1A of the drawings. The pressing force applied on the panel frame 10 is distributed and transferred along the two support members 21 to the environment supporting surface S.
Since one side of the foldable panel arrangement is connected to the workpiece W, the foldable panel arrangement receives sideward support from the workpiece W when in the deployed state. According to a foldable table arrangement of a conventional art, both sides of the foldable panel arrangement are supported by legs. However, the first panel 111 is directly supported by the workpiece W, and thus this approximate side adjacent to the workpiece W need not be directly and vertically supported by support members H. In other words, the foldable support frame can be provided at a short distance away from the approximate side adjacent to the first panel 111, which is connected to the workpiece W, and the support can be concentrated on a substantial central area of the foldable panel arrangement. Accordingly, the pressing force applied on the panel frame 10 can be more evenly distributed with configuration of the foldable support frame 20 of the present invention. It is worth to mentioning that the two support members 21 actually forma substantial triangular support frame structure below the pane frame 10 in the deployed state, so that a stable support is enhanced. Also, the two support members 21 are connected to each other, so that when the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, further pivotal movement is inhibited. Referring to FIG. 1A of the drawings, one of the two support members 21 stands vertically in the deployed state, and a pivotal movement towards the distal side of the panel frame is prevented.
Accordingly, the foldable panel arrangement is mounted on the workpiece at a height H1. One of the support member 21, which is at a distal side away from the workpiece W, has the approximate height H1 so that when the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, the panel frame 10 is straightly extended from the workpiece W and the surfaces of the first panel 111 and the second panel 112 are coplanar with each other. In other words, the first panel 111 and the second panel 112 are in the same horizontal level.
It is worth mentioning that according to this preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first panel 111 has a length H2 and the second panel 112 has a length H3 which is larger than the first panel 111. The length H3 is equal to the sum of the length H2 of the first panel 111 and the height H1 of the support member 21, so that when in the stowed state, the second panel 112 is overlappedly folded towards the first panel 111 and the workpiece W in an end-to-end manner, as shown in FIG. 1E of the drawings.
The support members 21 are made of rigid material such as wood or metal. The detail preferred structure of the support members 21 will be described in the following disclosure with reference to the drawings. Accordingly, in this preferred embodiment, one of the support members 21 is provided for standing on the supporting surface S and another support member 21 is used for provide back support.
It is worth mentioning that the panel frame 10 is not required to be on the workpiece W at a single location, a sliding guide channel may be proved in the workpiece W so that the position of the panel frame 10 can be positioned at any location along the sliding guide channel. Similarly, when the length of the support members 21 can be adjusted, the panel frame 21 can be mounted in a height sliding channel so that the height of the foldable panel arrangement can also be adjusted.
It is still worth mentioning that the foldable panel arrangement of the present invention can be suitable for many uses such as a foldable bed, a foldable table, a foldable desk, a foldable chair, solar panels, or other large scale objects such as a wind barrier for a single family home which can be nice deck attached to the home and can be stove at an angle deflecting hurricane winds, a temporary bridge, a display panel. In oilier words, the structure of the present invention can be incorporated into a wide range of foldable functional arrangements. For instance, according to this preferred embodiment, the foldable panel arrangement is a foldable table. The panel frame 10 is embodied as a tabletop frame and the support members 21 are embodied as support legs of the tabletop frame.
The term “workpiece” is referred to a wall, a surface, a single pole, or the like and as long as the panel frame 10 can be mounted thereon. The term“workpiece” can also be referred to a movable cart (toolbox) and a recreational vehicle. The term “environment supporting surface” is referred to a surface for the foldable support frame 20 to stand there on which can be a ground surface, a floor, a track that can deploy frames to follow specific path, or any surface easy to slide such as snow or even water.
Referring to FIGS. 2A to 2E of the drawings, a foldable panel arrangement according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The foldable panel arrangement according to this preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a panel frame 10A and a foldable support frame 20A able to fold between a stowed state and a deployed state. The panel frame 10A is rotatably mounted to a workpiece W. When the foldable panel arrangement is in the stowed state, the foldable support frame 20A is folded to direct the panel frame 10A to rotate with respect to the workpiece W so as to overlappedly align with the workpiece W. When the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, the panel frame 10A is side supported by the workpiece W and is also supported by the foldable support frame 20A which is unfolded and is supported by an environment supporting surfaces.
The structure of the foldable panel arrangement according to this preferred embodiment is similar to the structure of the above preferred embodiment, the difference is that for a longer configuration, more support members 21A and more panels 11A can be added. More particularly, in this preferred embodiment, the panel frame 10A comprises two panels 11A, i.e. first panel 111A and second panel 112A, pivotally and rotatably connected at a pivot hinge 12A. The foldable support frame 20A comprises a first support member 211A, pivotally and rotatably connected to the pivot hinge 12A, a second support member 212A, pivotally and rotatably connected to the second panel 112A and spacedly aligned with the first support member 211A, and a third support member 213A having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to the first panel 111A and a second end connected to the second support member 212A via a slide arrangement 22A.
In addition, a control lever 23A is pivotally and rotatably connected between the first support member 211A and the second support member 212A to further enhance the stability of the support of the panel frame 21A via the first support member 211A and the second support member 212A.
It is thus recognizable that when more panels 11A are employed, correspondingly more support members 21A of the foldable support frame 20A are added, so that a length of the foldable panel arrangement can be adjusted according to the actual requirement.
Referring to FIGS. 3A to 3B of the drawings, a foldable panel arrangement according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The foldable panel arrangement comprises a panel frame 10B and a foldable support frame 20B. The panel frame 10B comprises two panels 11B, i.e. a first panel 111B, and a second panel 112B. The foldable support frame 20B comprises two support members 21B, which are a first support member 211B, and a second support member 212B.
Referring to FIG. 3B of the drawings, upper ends of the first support member 211B and the second support member 212B are pivotally and rotatably connected to the first panel 111B and the second panel 112B, respectively. A lower end 2111B of the first support member 211B is rotatably connected to a lower portion 2121B of the second support member 212B. The slide arrangement 22B is directly connected to the lower end 2122B of the second support member 212B.
As shown in FIG. 3B of the drawings, the second support member 212B further comprises two support legs 2120B spacedly and parallelly aligned with each other. The lower end 2111B of the first support member 211B is rotatably connected between the two support legs 2120B via a rivet, screw, or the like. The slide arrangement 22B comprises a wheel arm 221B and two wheels 222B connected to both ends of the wheel arm 221B. The lower ends 2122B of the two support legs 2120B of the second support member 212B are respectively connected to the wheel arm 221B. Thus when the two wheels slide on the environment supporting surface toward or away from the workpiece W, the support members 211B and 212B are guided to fold or unfold the panel frame 10B between the stowed state and the deployed state, as shown in FIGS. 3C to 3E of the drawings.
Referring to FIG. 4A to 4B of the drawings, the foldable panel arrangement of this fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention is similar to the foldable arrangement of the above third preferred embodiment. The foldable panel arrangement comprises a panel frame 10C and a foldable support frame 20C. The panel frame 10C comprises only a panel 11C, i.e. the first panel 111B, and the second panel 112B in the above third preferred embodiment are substituted by a single integral panel 11C.
As shown in FIG. 4B of the drawings, the foldable support frame 20C comprises a first support member 211C, having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to the panel 11C and a second end pivotally and rotatably connected to the workpiece W, a second support member 212C, pivotally and rotatably connected to the panel 11C, and a control lever 23C rotatably extended between the first support member 211C and the second support member 212C.
Accordingly, the first support member 211C comprises two first support legs 2110C spacedly and parallelly aligned with each other. The second support member 212C comprises two second support legs 2120C spacedly and parallelly aligned with each other. The two ends of the control lever 23C are respectively connected between the two first support legs 2110C and two second support legs 2120C.
Referring to FIG. 4B of the drawings, when the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, the second support member 212C vertically supports the panel 11C, while the first support member 211C is substantially parallel to the panel 11C and the control lever 23C is used to retain and enhance the second support member 212C in position.
Referring to FIGS. 4C to 4E of the drawings, when moving from the deployed state to the stowed state, the approximate side adjacent to the workpiece W can be lifted up and the foldable support frame 20C is hidden behind the panel 11C when in the stowed state.
Referring to FIGS. 5A to 5C of the drawings, a foldable panel arrangement according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The foldable panel arrangement also has a one panel configuration similar with the above fourth preferred embodiment except the foldable support frame 20D.
Accordingly, the foldable support frame 20D comprises a first support member 211D, having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to the panel 11D, a second support member 212D, having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to the panel 11D, a third support member 213D, having a first end rotatably connected to a body portion of the second support member 212D, and a second end arranged for standing on the environment supporting surfaces in the deployed state. The second end of the first support member 211D is connected to a body portion of the third support member 213D. The slide arrangement 22D of this preferred embodiment is connected to the third support member 213D.
More specifically, the second support member 212D comprises two second support legs 2120D parallelly and spacedly connected to the panel 11D. A support stand 2121D is extended from each second end of the second support member 212D. The third support member 213D comprise a pair of third support legs 2130D and the second end of the first support member 211D is connected between the pair of third support legs 2130D, as shown in FIG. 5B of the drawings.
Accordingly, the third support member 213D is vertically standing on the environment supporting surfaces while the second support member is substantially extended parallelly to the panel 11D when the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state. It is worth mentioning that the panel 11D is rotatably mounted to a workpiece W which can be embodied as two poles W1. Height of two poles W1 are equal to a length of the third support member 213D. The two poles W1 also serve to support the panel 11D when the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state.
This configuration may work well as an unloading device, and articles stocked on the top surface can be slide out when the panel 11D is tilted. Referring to FIGS. 5D to 5F of the drawings, when moving from the deployed state to the stowed state, the panel 11D is lifted up and attached to the workpiece W, which also may be embodied as a wall. Accordingly, in this preferred embodiment, if the workpiece W is a wall, the top surface of the panel 11D can be attached to the wall and is hidden behind the foldable support frame 20D, so that the top surface of the panel frame 10D is kept from dust.
Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B of the drawings, a foldable panel arrangement according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The foldable panel arrangement comprises a panel frame 10E, a foldable support frame 20E, and a retaining frame 30E.
Accordingly, in this preferred embodiment, the panel frame 10E is connected to the workpiece W via the retaining frame 30E. More particularly, the retaining frame 30E comprises a retaining arm 31E connected to the workpiece W and a connecting arm 32E vertically and rotatably extended from the retaining arm 31E. The panel frame 10E can be pivotally and rotatably connected to the connecting arm 32E. Accordingly, the panel frame 10E comprises a first panel 111E and a second panel 112E, rotatably connected to the first panel 11E. The first panel 111E is pivotally and rotatably connected to the connecting arm 32E. The retaining frame 30E may further comprise a control arm 33E, having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to a body portion of the retaining arm 31E, and a second end connected to a body portion of the connecting arm 32E to enhance the stability of the retaining frame 30E. It is worth mentioning that when the single pole connection is introduced, the pole connection can be made at any locations rather than the corner shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B of the drawings, such as in the middle of edge of the first panel 111E.
According to this preferred embodiment, the panel frame 10E is connected to the workpiece W via the retaining frame 30E. When moving from the deployed state to the stowed state, the two panels 111E and 112E are lifted up to overlappedly folded with each other. The entire piece can then rotate with respect to the retaining arm 31E to overlap with the workpiece W.
Referring to FIG. 6B of the drawings, when the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, the connecting arm 32E and the control arm 33E rotates with respect to the retaining arm 31E to guide the deployed panel frame 10E to rotate with respect to the retaining arm 31E. In other words, the panel frame 10E can be provided with a 180° angle of rotation.
Referring to FIGS. 7A to 7H of the drawings, a foldable panel arrangement according to a seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The foldable panel arrangement has a structure similar to the above preferred embodiment of the present invention except that foldable panel arrangement is provided at a corner, so that an even wider range of angle of rotation can be provided for the foldable panel arrangement both in the stowed state and the deployed state. For example, a 270° angle of rotation for the panel frame 10F is provided.
It is recognized that when the workpiece W is a single pole, a 360° angle of rotation for the foldable panel arrangement also can be provided.
Referring to FIGS. 8A to 8H of the drawings, a foldable panel arrangement according to an eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Two foldable panel arrangements are provided at two sides of a workpiece W. In other words, two foldable panel arrangements are side supported by the same workpiece W.
Referring to FIGS. 8A to 8D of the drawings, one of the two foldable panel arrangements is folded from the deployed state to the stowed state, and the folding operation is the same as above preferred embodiments. Referring FIGS. 8E to 8H of the drawings, the other of the two foldable panel arrangements can also be folded from the deployed state to the stowed state, so that the two panel frames 10G of the two foldable panel arrangements can both be folded toward the workpiece W with can be embodied as a single pole.
It is worth mentioning that each of the two foldable panel arrangements may comprise different types of panel frames which can be attached at same time. For example, a solar panel on one side and a table on opposite side. All of the panel frames can rotate together. When the two foldable panel arrangements are mounted to a corner, each of the two foldable panel arrangements can rotate separately.
Referring to FIGS. 9A to 9C of the drawings, a foldable panel arrangement according to a ninth preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Accordingly, the operation of foldable panel arrangement may require different stops, locks, and the like. There are five locations A, B, C, D wherein they can be used, i.e. a location between two separate panels, B, locations between the panel frame 10H and the foldable support frame 20H,A, D, a location between two support members 211H and 212H of the foldable support frame 20H,C, and a location at the front edge of a front panel 111H,A.
According to this preferred embodiment, the panel frame 10H comprises a rear panel 111H and the front panel 112H rotatably connected to the rear panel 111H at location B. The foldable support frame 20H comprises two support members 211H and 212H. The support member 212H severs as a leg standing on a environment supporting surface S in the deployed state and the support member 211H severs as a back support to prevent the further movement of the leg 212H.
It is worth mentioning that the panel arrangement 10H further comprises a detachable retaining arrangement 14H for retaining the two panels 111H and 112H in position in the stowed state. Accordingly, the rear (first) panel 11H comprises a first retaining member 141H and the front (second) panel 112H comprises a corresponding second retaining member 142H detachably coupled with the first 141H. The first retaining member 141H can be engaged with the second retaining member 142H in a tongue-groove manner, key/numeric lock manner, or coupled with each other by magnetic attracting force.
For example, the first retaining member 141H is a magnet while the second retaining member 142H is a metal of magnetic attracting ability, or the first retaining member 141H is a metal of magnetic attracting ability while the second retaining member 142H is a magnet, or the first retaining member 141H and the second retaining members 142H are both magnets but having different polarities, so that when in the stowed state, the rear panel 111H is magnetically attracted to the front panel 112H, so that a secure assembly in the stowed state is achieved.
FIGS. 10A to 10C, 11A to 11C, and 12A to 12C illustrate three kinds of stoppers 40 that can be used for the pivotal movement between two panels of the panel frame 10. The stopper 40 at this location needs to allow a rotation therebetween and also prevent further movement when in the deployed state. Top edges of two panels may provide this stop, but for some applications (such as a table), this will create “finger cutter” danger. According to the drawings, the two panels (front and rear panels or first and second panels) are spacedly apart from each other (creating a gap) and the stoppers are used for the connection therebetween.
As shown in FIGS. 10A to 10C of the drawings, the stopper 40 comprises two mounting members 41 and 42 spacedly and respectively mounted on two panels 111 and 112 of the panel frame 10, two hinge members 43 and 44 hinged with each other at a first hinge point 45 and are respectively connected to the two mounting members 41 and 42, and two hinge arm 46 and 47, which are hinged at a second hinge point 48, rotatably connected to the two hinge members 43 and 44 respectively. Thus when the foldable panel arrangement is moved from the deployed state to the stowed state, the two mounting members 41 and 42 are guided by the two hinge members 43 and 44, and the two hinge arms 46 and 47 are to be folded to overlap with each other, as shown in FIG. 10C of the drawings. Accordingly, this stopper 40 is keeping and aligning the two panels 111 and 112 in such a manner that when the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, both surfaces of the two panels 111 and 112 are at the same plane, so that a user cannot change this by pushing in this location. In other words, this lock mechanism only locks the two panels in the deployed state.
Referring to FIGS. 11A to 11C of the drawings, the stopper 40 may further comprise a holding clip 49 for locking the two mounting member 41 and 42, and thus the stability of the foldable panel arrangement in the stowed state and the deployed state can be ensured.
It is recognizable that sometimes, a fixing ability at an angle between 0 and 180° may be required. In this respect, a stopper 40 illustrated in FIGS. 12A to 12C is introduced. As shown in the drawings, the stopper 40 may further comprise a hinge control 49A having a sliding channel 491A. The two hinge arms 46 and 47 are hinged by a control member 492A that can fasten or release the hinge between the two hinge arms 46 and 47. The hinge control also has an end connected to the first hinge point 43 of the two mounting members 41 and 42. When the control member 492A slides in the sliding channel 491A and is fixed to a predetermined location along the siding channel 491A, a corresponding retaining angle between 0 and 180° for the two panels 111 and 112 can be provided. Accordingly, this stopper 40 allows setting the two panels 111 and 112 at any angle between the stowed state and the deployed state.
Referring to FIGS. 13A to 13B of the drawings, as a modification of the foldable panel arrangement of foldable panel according to the first preferred embodiment. Another hinge support member 213 is pivotally connected to the hinge connection between the two panels 111 and 112 of the panel frame 10, wherein the hinge support member 213 is attached to the first support member 211 which acts as a back support member. Furthermore, a lever 214 is provided between the first support member 211 and the hinge support member 213. When the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, the lever 214 is used for locking the foldable panel arrangement in position. It is worth mentioning that the lever 214 may comprise a handle 215 for carrying out the operation. In other words, when in the deployed state, the handle 215 is turned to drive the lever 214 to lock the foldable panel arrangement in position.
Referring to FIGS. 14A to 14B of the drawings, as an alternative mode of the above preferred embodiment, a motorized threaded rod 213′ may be introduced. The motorized threaded rod 213′ can be an electric or hydraulic motor device that can automatically deploy stowed panel frames and also can work as a stopper in any position. It is worth mentioning that different methods can be employed for the motorized support frame 20.
Referring to FIGS. 15A to 15D of the drawings, a brace 50 is employed to retain the foldable panel arrangement in the two states or at any angle between them. Accordingly, the brace 50 comprises a first brace member 51 rotatably connected to the slide arrangement 22 or support member 21, and a second brace 52, which is hinged with the first brace member 51 at a brace hinge point 53, rotatably connected to a distal portion or edge of the panel frame 10 (such as an outer edge of the second panel 112).
Referring to FIGS. 16A to 16B of the drawings, for a foldable arrangement only require for fixing in two states, especially the deployed state. The panel frame 10 comprises a retaining mechanism 60 comprising a first fixing member 61 and a second fixing member 62 respectively provided on the two panels 111 and 112 of the panel frame 10. Accordingly, the retaining mechanism 60 can be embodied in a tongue-groove manner or a regular sliding latch. For example, when the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, a first fixing member 61 may be inserted into a hole in the second fixing member 62 so that the two panels 111 and 112 can be firmly fixed and locked with each other.
Referring to FIGS. 17A to 17E of the drawings, a foldable panel arrangement according to a tenth preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The foldable panel arrangement according to this preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a panel frame 10I and a foldable support frame 20I able to fold between a stowed state and a deployed state. The structure of the foldable panel arrangement according to this preferred embodiment is similar to the structure of the first preferred embodiment, and the difference is that for allowing moving around the foldable panel arrangement without supporting by the workpiece W.
The panel frame 10I comprises two panels 11I, i.e. first panel 111I and second panel 112I. The foldable support frame 20I comprises a first support member 211I, pivotally and rotatably connected to the first panel 111I, a second support member 212A, pivotally and rotatably connected to the second panel 112A and spacedly aligned with the first support member 211A, a third support member 213I having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to the first panel 111I and a second end connected to the second support member 212I via a first slide arrangement 22I, and a fourth support member 214I having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to the first panel 111I and a second end connected to the second support member 212I via a second slide arrangement 221I.
As shown in FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B, the panel frame 10I is detachably attached on a workpiece W. A docking station 70 is fixedly mounted on the workpiece W at a height that is equal to the height of the first support member 211I and the height of the second support member 212I. The upper end of the first support member 211I is selectively attached on the docking station 70 so as to fixedly attach the foldable panel arrangement on the workpiece. When the upper end of the first support member 211I is detached from the docking station, the foldable panel arrangement is able to move around via the first slide arrangement 22I and the second slide arrangement 221I, such that the first slide arrangement 22I and the second sliding arrangement 221I are sliding on the environment supporting surface S at the same time.
Accordingly, the first support member 211I and the second support member 212I are vertically standing on the environment supporting surface S while the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state. The pressing force applied on the panel frame 10I is distributed and transferred along the first support member 211I and the second support member 212I to the environment supporting surface S. In addition, the third support member 213I and the fourth support member 214I are able to enhance the stability of the support of the panel frame 10I via the first support member 211I and the second support member 212I. Therefore, when the foldable panel arrangement is in the deployed state, the panel frame 10I can perform as a self-standing frame via supporting by the foldable support frame 20I without supporting by the workpiece W, which is unfolded and is supported by an environment supporting surface S. In addition, the foldable arrangement
In addition, when the foldable panel arrangement moves from the deployed state to the stowed state, the first slide arrangement 22I and the second slide arrangement 221I slides toward the workpiece W on the environment supporting surface S, such that the first support member 211I is slides towards the workpiece W, in such manner that the upper end of the first support member 211I is attached on the docking station 70, as shown in FIG. 17B. When the foldable panel arrangement is in the stowed state, the foldable support frame 20I is folded to direct the panel frame 10 to rotate with respect to the workpiece W so as to overlappedly align with the workpiece W, as shown in FIGS. 17C to 17E.
Referring to FIGS. 18A to 18D of the drawings, the docking station 70 is detachably coupled on the foldable panel arrangement. Tow or even more of the foldable panel arrangements are folded from the deployed state to the stowed state, and stacked up together in the stowed state via the detachable docking station 70. One of the foldable panel arrangement is sliding towards the workpiece W in the deployed state, and then the docking station 70 is detachably coupled on the outermost foldable panel arrangement which have been stacked up together via the detachable docking station 70 on the workpiece W, such that one of the foldable panel arrangement is able to attach with the outermost foldable panel arrangement via the docking station 70 thereon, and then moves from the deployed state to the stowed state for overlapping with the outmost foldable panel arrangement. Therefore, more foldable panel arrangements can be overlappedly stacked up together in the stowed state by detachably coupling the docking station 70 thereon.
One skilled in the art will understand that the embodiment of the present invention as shown in the drawings and described above is exemplary only and not intended to be limiting.
It will thus be seen that the objects of the present invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. It embodiments have been shown and described for the purposes of illustrating the functional and structural principles of the present invention and is subject to change without departure from such principles. Therefore, this invention includes all modifications encompassed within the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A side supported foldable panel arrangement for mounting on a workpiece, comprising:

at least a panel frame pivotally and rotatably mounted to the workpiece, and

at least a foldable support frame arranged for folding said panel frame between a stowed state in which said panel frame is folded to overlap with said foldable support frame and a deployed state in which said panel frame is unfolded to be sideward supported by the workpiece and also supported by said foldable support frame which is supported by an environment supporting surface.

2. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 1, wherein said foldable support frame comprises a plurality of support members pivotally and rotatably connected to said panel frame, wherein said plurality of support members are unfolded to support said panel frame in said deployed state.

3. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 2, wherein said panel frame comprises a single panel.

4. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 2, wherein said panel frame comprises two or more panels which are respectively connected to said foldable support frame.

5. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 4, wherein said panel frame comprises a first panel and a second panel rotatably connected to said first panel.

6. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 2, wherein said foldable support frame further comprises a slide arrangement, wherein first ends of said support members are rotatably and pivotally connected to said first panel and said second panel respectively, and second ends thereof are connected to said slide arrangement, wherein when said foldable panel arrangement moves from said stowed state to said deployed state, said slide arrangement slides away from the workpiece on the environment supporting surface, wherein when said foldable panel arrangement moves from said deployed state to said stowed state, said slide arrangement slides toward the workpiece on the environment supporting surface.

7. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 6, wherein said foldable panel arrangement is mounted on the workpiece at a first height, one of said support members which is at a distal side away from the workpiece has a substantial same first height, wherein when said foldable panel arrangement is in said deployed state, said panel frame is straightly extended from the workpiece and said first panel and said second panel are in a same horizontal level.

8. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 7, wherein said first panel has a second length and said second panel has a third length is which is larger than said second length, wherein said third length is equal to a sum of said second length of said first panel and said first height of said support member which is at a distal side away from the workpiece.

9. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 5, wherein said first panel and said second panel are pivotally and rotatably connected with each other at a pivot hinge, wherein said plurality of support member comprises a first support member pivotally and rotatably connected to said pivot hinge, a second support member pivotally and rotatably connected to said second panel and spacedly aligned with said first support member, a third support member having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to said first panel and a second end connected to said second support member for preventing further pivot movement of said second support member in said deployed state, and a control lever pivotally and rotatably connected between said first support member and said second support member to further enhance a stability of a support of said panel frame via said first support member and said second support member.

10. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 9, wherein said foldable support frame further comprises a slide arrangement, wherein said second end of said third support member is connected to said second support member via said slide arrangement.

11. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 5, wherein a lower end of said first support member is rotatably connected to a lower portion of said second support member, wherein said foldable support frame further comprises a slide arrangement which is directly connected to a lower end of said second support member.

12. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 11, wherein said second support member comprises two support legs spacedly and parallelly aligned with each other, wherein said lower end of said first support member is rotatably connected between said two support legs.

13. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 11, wherein said foldable support frame further comprises a slide arrangement having a wheel arm and two wheels connected to two ends of said wheel arm, wherein lower ends of said second support member are respectively connected to said wheel arm.

14. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 3, wherein said foldable support frame comprises a first support member having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to said panel and a second end pivotally and rotatably connected to the workpiece, a second support member pivotally and rotatably connected to said panel, and a control lever rotatably extended between said first support member and said second support member.

15. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 14, wherein said first support member comprises two first support legs spacedly and parallelly aligned with each other, wherein said second support member comprises two second support legs spacedly and parallelly aligned with each other, wherein two ends of said control lever are respectively connected between said two first support legs and two second support legs.

16. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 3, wherein said foldable support frame comprises a first support member having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to said panel, a second support member having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to said panel, a third support member having a first end rotatably connected to a body portion of said second support member and a second end arranged for standing on the environment supporting surface in said deployed state, and a slide arrangement connected to said third support member, wherein a second end of to said first support member is connected to a body portion of said third support member, wherein said third support member is vertically standing on the environment supporting surface while said second support member is substantially extended parallelly to said panel when said foldable panel arrangement is in said deployed state.

17. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 16, wherein said second support member comprises two second support legs spacedly and parallelly aligned with each other, wherein said third support member comprises two third support legs spacedly and parallelly aligned with each other, wherein the second end of the first support member is connected between said two third support legs.

18. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 4, further comprising a retaining frame, wherein said retaining frame comprises a retaining arm connected to the workpiece, and a connecting arm vertically and rotatably extended from said retaining arm, wherein said panel frame is pivotally and rotatably connected to said connecting arm.

19. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 18, wherein said first panel is pivotally and rotatably connected to said connecting arm, wherein said retaining frame further comprises a control arm having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to a body portion of said retaining arm and a second end connected to a body portion of said connecting arm to enhance said stability of said retaining frame.

20. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 1, wherein said foldable panel arrangement is provided at a corner.

21. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 1, wherein the workpiece is a wall.

22. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 1, wherein the workpiece is a pole.

23. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 4, to wherein two panel frames are respectively provided at two sides of the workpiece, and two corresponding foldable support frames are respectively connected to said two panel frames, wherein said two panel frames are respectively sideward supported by the same workpiece.

24. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 6, wherein said panel arrangement further comprises a detachable retaining arrangement for retaining said two panels in position in the stowed state.

25. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 24, wherein said two panels comprise a first retaining member and a corresponding second retaining member respectively, wherein said first retaining member is coupled with said second retaining member in a manner selected from a group consisting of a tongue-groove manner, key lock manner, numeric lock manner, and magnetic attracting manner.

26. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 4, wherein said two or more panels is spacedly apart from each other and said panel frame further comprises a stopper provided between said two adjacent panels, wherein said stopper comprises two mounting members spacedly and respectively mounted on said two panels of said panel frame, two hinge members hinged with each other at a first hinge point and are respectively connected to said two mounting members, and two hinge arm, which are hinged at a second hinge point, rotatably connected to said two hinge members respectively, wherein when said foldable panel arrangement is moved from said deployed state to said stowed state, said two mounting members are guided by said two hinge members, and said two hinge arms to be folded to overlap with each other.

27. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 26, wherein said stopper further comprises a holding clip locking said mounting members and thus stability of said foldable panel arrangement in said stowed state and said to deployed state is ensured.

28. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 26, wherein said stopper further comprises a hinge control having a sliding channel, and a control member, wherein said two hinge arms are hinged by said control member which is capable of fastening and releasing a hinge movement between said two hinge arms, wherein said hinge control also has an end connected to said first hinge point of said two mounting members, wherein when said control member slides in said sliding channel and is fixed to a predetermined location along said siding channel, a corresponding retaining angle between 0 and 180° for said two panels is provided.

29. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 5, further comprising a hinge support member pivotally connected to a hinge connection between said two panels of said panel frame, wherein a lever is provided between said first support member and said hinge support member arranged for locking said foldable panel arrangement in position when in said deployed state.

30. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 29, wherein said hinge support member comprises a motorized threaded rod attached to one of said support members which is adjacent to the workpiece.

31. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 5, further comprising a brace for retaining said foldable panel arrangement in said two states and at any angle between them, wherein said brace comprises a first brace member rotatably connected to one of said slide arrangement and said support member, and a second brace, which is hinged with said first brace member at a brace hinge point, rotatably connected to a distal portion/edge of said panel frame.

32. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 5, further comprising a retaining mechanism comprising a first fixing member and a second fixing member respectively provided on said two panels of said panel frame, wherein said first fixing member and said second fixing member are detachably coupled with each other in said deployed state.

33. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 1, wherein said foldable panel arrangement is selected from a group consisting of a foldable bed, a foldable table, a foldable desk, a foldable chair, a solar panel, a wind barrier, a temporary bridge, and a display panel.

34. A side supported foldable panel arrangement for mounting on a workpiece, comprising:

at least a panel frame pivotally and rotatably mounted to the workpiece, and

at least a foldable support frame arranged for folding said panel frame between a stowed state in which said panel frame is folded to overlap with said foldable support frame and a deployed state in which is supported by said foldable support frame which is supported by an environment supporting surface.

35. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 34, wherein said foldable support frame comprises a plurality of support members pivotally and rotatably connected to said panel frame, wherein said plurality of support members are unfolded to support said panel frame in said deployed state.

36. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 35, wherein said panel frame comprises two panels, which are a first panel and a second panel rotatably connected to said first panel, respectively connected to said foldable support frame.

37. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 36, wherein said supported member comprises a first support member, pivotally and rotatably connected to said first panel, a second support member, pivotally and rotatably connected to said second panel and spacedly aligned with said first support member, a third support member having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to said first panel and a to second end connected to said second support member via a first slide arrangement, and a fourth support member having a first end pivotally and rotatably connected to said first panel and a second end connected to said second support member via a second slide arrangement.

38. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 36, wherein a docking station is mounted on the workpiece at a height that is equal to the height of said first support member and the height of said second support member, such that the upper end of said first support member is selectively attached on said docking station for fixedly attaching said foldable panel arrangement on the workpiece.

39. The side supported foldable panel arrangement, as recited in claim 36, wherein a docking station is detachably mounted on said foldable panel arrangement, such that more and more foldable panel arrangements are stacked up together by said docking station.