초록 ▼

A table is provided with a single retractable caster to facilitate manually transporting the table from one location to another. The retractable caster is located substantially directly below the center of gravity of the table, so that when the caster is extended to an “on”position, the table can be

A table is provided with a single retractable caster to facilitate manually transporting the table from one location to another. The retractable caster is located substantially directly below the center of gravity of the table, so that when the caster is extended to an “on”position, the table can be held in a generally poised condition over the caster wheel, and manually rolled across the floor. A pedestal-type base, having radially outwardly extending feet with glides provides outrigger support for the table during transport. The caster is shifted between the extended “on”position, and a retracted “off”position by simply tilting the table slightly about its base, such that a person having ordinary strength and dexterity can easily and safely move the table about a room without assistance. An institutional version of the table is designed for use in hospitals, nursing homes, and the like, and may include a vertically adjustable top to accommodate both ambulatory and wheelchair patients, as well as a raised, marginal, top edge that forms a spill guard with contrasting colors to facilitate use by the visually impaired.

대표청구항 ▼

A base for tables and the like of the type having a top to support articles thereon; said base comprising: a rigid tubular support pedestal, having an upper end, a lower end, and at least three, oppositely oriented exterior faces; means for operably connecting said top with the upper end of said sup

A base for tables and the like of the type having a top to support articles thereon; said base comprising: a rigid tubular support pedestal, having an upper end, a lower end, and at least three, oppositely oriented exterior faces; means for operably connecting said top with the upper end of said support pedestal; at least three legs, each having a generally L-shaped side elevational configuration; means for connecting said legs to the faces of said support pedestal at the lower end thereof, such that said legs extend radially outwardly from said support pedestal in a circumferentially spaced apart pattern to support said top on a support surface; and a retractable caster, having a ground engaging wheel with means for shifting said caster wheel between an extended position wherein said caster wheel is weight-bearing and supports the table on the support surface, and a retracted position wherein said caster wheel is not weight-bearing and said legs support the table on the support surface, said caster connected to said support pedestal so that it is directly below the center of gravity of the base when caster is in the extended position so that the base can be easily transported from one location to another.