Lazy susan with pull-out shelving

Abstract

A lazy susan device (100) includes a platform or support base (108). The support base (108) is rotatably coupled to a centralized support pole (102). A series of linear slides (140) are arranged in pairs (142). Pie or wedge-shaped shelves (148) are mounted to the linear slides (140). The slides (140) are properly secured to a corresponding shelf (140) in a manner such that the shelf (140) is permitted to slide radially outwardly from the platform or support base (108).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is based upon and claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 460,448 filed Apr. 4, 2003.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT [0002] Not applicable. REFERENCE TO A MICROFISHE APPENDIX [0003] Not applicable. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0004] 1. Field of the Invention [0005] The invention relates to rotatable or “lazy susan” devices and, more particularly, to rotatable devices having shelves or similar receptacles for holding various items. [0006] 2. Background Art [0007] Various types of storage devices having shelves or receptacles for holding various items are utilized in numerous environments, including commercial, industrial and residential spaces. One type of storage device which has been found to be of value is a device which includes means for rotation. Rotatable storage devices have the capability of varying the “presentation” location of hooks, shelves or other ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013] In accordance with the invention, a lazy susan-like apparatus is adapted for use in supporting items and facilitating access to the items by a user. The apparatus includes at least one platform, with support means coupled to structures separate from the apparatus for supporting the apparatus. The support means also is utilized for supporting at least one platform. A plurality of shelves is associated with the at least one platform, with each of the plurality of shelves being movable between a retracted position and an extended position. When the shelf is in an extended position, it facilitates axis by a user to items positioned on the shelf. Further, slide means are provided which are connected to at least one platform and to the plurality of shelves, so that the shelves are movable in radial directions relative to the platform.

[0023] Each of the shelves can, as earlier stated, be of a wedge-shape configuration. Each shelf can include a finger nub for facilitating a user exerting pulling forces on a shelf so as to move the shelf from a retracted to an extended position. The platform can be not only of a circular configuration, but also may be of a kidney-shape configuration. Still further, each of the shelves is movable between extended and retracted positions relative to the platform, independent of movement of others of the plurality of shelves.

Problems solved by technology

One problem which may arise with respect to use of these types of lazy susan devices relates to the capability of retrieving items which are located away from the perimeter of the horizontally disposed platform and near the platforms' center points.

Depending upon age and mobility, it can be very difficult for an individual to “reach” into the location of a lazy susan device to retrieve stored items located near platform center points.

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