Field of the invention

This invention relates to a workstation. In particular, though not exclusively, the invention relates to a portable workstation or toolbox, as well as uses of the same. Background of the invention

A tradesman is often required to travel to a worksite. The tradesman, aside from needing their tools, may require a workstation to allow them to clamp, cut, glue or otherwise secure/handle materials that they are working on. To conveniently transport a workstation to a worksite, the workstation needs to be portable, while still performing as many of the functions of a full-sized workstation as possible. EP 1 721 546 describes a foldable table where a lower shelf is deployed when the foldable table is opened. The height of the work surface is in effect set by the length of the legs, which are attached to the table top. When the table is folded the legs tuck under the footprint of the table top. To increase the overall operable height of the work surface the legs would need to be increased in length. If the length of the legs is increased then the table top would need to be made wider, leading to an increase in bulk. In addition, when the table is opened there is room below the work surface to accommodate tools like clamps, but these tools would need to be transported separately when the table is folded.

US 3,851 ,756 describes a toolbox with folding legs, in which the top of the toolbox can be used as a work surface. The top of the toolbox, where the work surface is located, is essentially set by the length of the legs. If the legs are made longer, a higher operable height can be obtained. However, increased leg length imposes limitations on the size of the toolbox. If longer legs are to be stowed under the toolbox, the toolbox needs to be made wider. The increased width increases bulk. Further, longer legs result in the body of the toolbox being raised higher off the ground, raising its centre of gravity. A higher centre of gravity results in a greater chance of toppling, and if the toolbox is knocked over, this could cause damage or even harm the user. Therefore, there remains a need in the art for a workstation that is compact, portable and versatile. It is an object of the present invention to address this need.

Summary of the invention

In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a portable workstation comprising: a housing; a utility space, the utility space being the volume inside the housing; an adjustable worktop, which is adjustable from a retracted position to an extended position, the retracted position being proximal to the housing and the extended position being distal to the housing; one or more adjustable legs, in which the legs are moveably connected to the housing, and the legs are adjustable from a stowed position to a deployed position; and wherein in use, the worktop can be adjusted to an operable height by extending or retracting the worktop, and/or by deploying or stowing the legs. In the present invention, the operable height of the workstation can be changed by either moving the worktop up or down, and/or by deploying the legs. By having two ways in which the operable height of the worktop can be altered, a user has more ways in which an operable height can be selected to suit their needs. In addition, because the height of the worktop is not only controlled by the length of the legs, the legs can be made shorter, and so the workstation can be made more compact to accommodate these shorter legs. Further, because the worktop can be raised separately from the housing, the centre of gravity of the workstation is not raised in the process. This means that the workstation is more stable, and so less likely to topple over. In addition, the present invention, unlike a collapsible worktable, allows the user to transport their tools along with the workstation. This is more convenient, and ensures that the tools necessary for the job can be kept with the workstation. This can lead to a reduction in lost work time where tools are not taken to the job or are misplaced in transit.

In an embodiment the housing is a frame. A frame can be made of any lightweight and strong material such as plastic or sheet metal, e.g. aluminium. In an embodiment the utility space defines a storage volume. The utility space can be used to store items, for example tools, and might for example be a toolbox. In an embodiment the utility space is substantially a rectangular prism. In an embodiment the volume of the utility space is substantially unchanged when the worktop and/or legs are adjusted. This negates the need to unpack the utility space before adjusting the workstation.

In an embodiment the utility space is in a region between the worktop and the legs. In an embodiment the utility space is substantially within the footprint defined by the worktop. The footprint is the area cast on the ground when the object is viewed from above. In an embodiment the worktop is moveably connected to the housing. In an embodiment the worktop is extended or retracted in a substantially vertical direction, the worktop remaining in a substantially horizontal plane. In an embodiment, when the worktop is in the retracted position the worktop is in contact with the housing. Generally, the worktop is most useful when it is a substantially horizontal plane. In an embodiment the worktop in the retracted position forms a lid on the housing. In an embodiment, when the worktop is in the retracted position the worktop forms a lid over the utility space.

Conveniently, the worktop is also the lid of the workstation, in which the lid helps to retain any items stored in the utility space, in particular when the workstation is being transported to and from a worksite. In an embodiment the worktop is reversibly lockable in the retracted position, and/or is reversibly lockable in the extended position, and/or is reversibly lockable in one or more intermediate extended positions between the retracted position and the extended position. In an embodiment there are 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 1 1 , 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 or 1 reversibly lockable intermediate positions. Having multiple reversibly lockable positions allows various operable heights to be selected by the user. The more locking positions that are available, the more options the user has. Optionally, these locking positions are spaced evenly apart. These positions may be, for example, 0.5cm to 2cm apart.

In an embodiment the worktop is mounted on one or more runners, the runners allowing the worktop to be extended or retracted in a substantially vertical direction. In an embodiment the runners are telescopic. In an embodiment, when the worktop is in the retracted position the one or more runners are within the utility space or within the housing.

In an embodiment the one or more runners are housed within one or more runner compartments, the runner compartments located in the utility space or the housing. To conveniently allow the worktop to be smoothly adjusted up or down, and to control the direction of travel, the worktop can be mounted on runners. Conveniently, the runners are located within the utility space or housing. In this way, the height of the utility space or housing governs the length of the runners. A runner compartment helps to prevent damage to the sliding mechanism and prevents any objects in the utility space interfering with the sliding mechanism. In an embodiment the runner compartment abuts the housing, or abuts two faces of the housing, or abuts within a corner of the housing. The runner compartments can be located along the edge or in the corners of the utility space to prevent the loss of valuable storage space. Where the housing is a frame, the runners can be situated in a region parallel and between the frame elements.

In an embodiment the worktop is a vice, or comprises a vice. In an embodiment the worktop is one piece. In an embodiment the worktop comprises one or more access holes. The worktop could take many forms, such as a single plane of material (e.g. wood, plastic, or metal) or could be made of more pieces. It might take the form of a vice, where two planes form jaws that can be reversibly brought together to clamp objects. The worktop could comprise a number of holes or slots to allow tools to enter or pass through the worktop or to hold items such as restraining pegs.

In an embodiment the difference in height between the worktop in the extended and retracted position is at least 5cm, 10cm, 20cm, 30cm, 40cm, 50cm, 60cm or 80cm. In an embodiment the difference in height between the worktop in the extended and retracted position is not greater than 100cm, 80cm, 60cm, 50cm, 40cm, 30cm, 20cm or 10cm. The worktop may be extended as far as practical and to suit the particular need of the user. In some circumstances, the worktop may not need to extend as far as in other circumstances/applications. In an embodiment, the difference in height between the worktop in the extended and retracted position is not greater than a length equalling the height of the housing or utility space. Conveniently, the worktop is mounted on a runner that is about the same length as the height of the utility space or housing, and this length substantially sets the furthest extension of the worktop from the housing.

In another embodiment, the worktop is attached to the housing by way of a hinge or pivot. The worktop may be moveable between a retracted position, in which it forms a lid to the housing and an extended position, in which it is hinged or pivoted away from the housing.

In an embodiment, when the legs are in the stowed position the legs are under the housing, and optionally the legs do not protrude beyond the housing. In an embodiment the legs fold from the stowed position to the deployed position by pivoting on a hinge. In an embodiment the legs in the stowed position are substantially within the footprint defined by the worktop and/or the housing. In an embodiment, when the legs are in the stowed position they are substantially parallel with the longest edge of the housing. For the workstation to be as compact as possible, it is better for the legs not to protrude beyond the housing when they are in the stowed position, because the legs may catch on objects in transit and could be damaged. Conveniently, the legs are folded along and are parallel to the longest edge, e.g. a side edge of the housing. It may also be possible to fold the legs along and parallel to a shorter edge of the housing, or diagonally under the housing. It is also possible that the legs may be folded upward along a vertical edge of the housing. In an embodiment the legs are reversibly removable. The legs could be stored in the utility space in transit.

In an embodiment the legs are reversibly lockable in the stowed position, and/or are reversibly lockable in the deployed position, and/or are reversibly lockable in one or more intermediate deployed positions between the stowed position and the deployed position.

In an embodiment the legs are telescopic. In an embodiment the legs are extendable from a retracted position to an extended position. In an embodiment the extendable legs are reversibly lockable in the retracted position, and/or are reversibly lockable in the extended position, and/or are reversibly lockable in one or more intermediate extended positions between the retracted position and the extended position. In an embodiment there are 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 1 1 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 or 1 reversibly lockable positions. In an embodiment the extendable legs are telescopic. Having multiple reversibly lockable positions allows various operable heights to be selected by the user. The more locking positions that are available, the more options the user has. Optionally, these locking positions are spaced evenly apart. In an embodiment the length of each leg, in the retracted position where the leg is extendable, is substantially equal to or shorter than the longest edge of the housing and/or utility space. As mentioned above, for the workstation to be as compact as possible, the legs of the workstation in the stowed position should not protrude beyond the rest of the workstation. In an embodiment, the legs in their most compact form (e.g. when the legs are telescopic, the legs are collapsed) are about equal to or shorter than the longest edge of the utility space or housing. Typically, in normal use, the longest edge of the workstation will lie parallel to the ground.

In an embodiment the legs (optionally in the extended position where the legs are extendable), are equal or greater than 5cm, 10cm, 20cm, 30cm, 40cm, 50cm, 60cm, 80cm, 100cm, 120cm, or 140cm. In an embodiment the adjustable legs (optionally in the extended position where the legs are extendable) are equal or shorter than 150cm, 140cm, 120cm, 100cm, 80cm, 60cm, 50cm, 40cm, 30cm, 20cm or 10cm. In an embodiment the difference in length between the legs in the extended and retracted position is at least 5cm, 10cm, 20cm, 30cm, 40cm, 50cm, 60cm, or 80cm. In an embodiment the difference in length between the legs in the extended and retracted position is not greater than 100cm, 80cm, 60cm, 50cm, 40cm, 30cm, 20cm or 10cm. The legs could be extended as far as practical and to suit need. In some circumstances, the legs may not need to extend as far as in other circumstances/applications.

In an embodiment, when the legs are in the deployed position the legs are splayed. In an embodiment, when the legs are in the deployed position the legs are at an angle of 5 to 85 degrees from vertical; optionally 10 to 65 degrees from vertical; further optionally 15 to 50 degrees from vertical; further optionally 35 to 45 degrees from vertical. Splayed legs are desirable as they provide more stability than substantially vertically orientated legs. In an embodiment, when the legs are in the stowed position they fold on top of each other, or they stack within each other. In an embodiment the legs are tubular, or have a substantially U-, V- or L-shaped cross-section. In an embodiment the legs are below the utility space. To keep the workstation as compact as possible, the legs when folded can be arranged to take up as little space as possible. For example a pair of legs can fold on top of each other. The legs might be tapered. If the legs have a generally U-, V- or L-shaped cross-sections (or similarly open shape), then the pair of legs can be folded so that they fit within each other

In an embodiment, each leg in the stowed position is substantially parallel to the plane of the worktop. In an embodiment, when the legs are moved from the stowed position to the deployed position, the worktop and the utility space are elevated.

In an embodiment the housing is provided with a skirt and/or feet. In an embodiment the skirt is flared. In an embodiment the feet are not adjustable. Optionally, the housing of the workstation can be set off the ground. This can provide a safe space for the legs to be stowed under the housing and so that the legs are not damaged by repeated contact with the ground. The feet elevate the utility space so that the utility space is less likely to get contaminated by, for example, spilt liquids. Feet, such as rubber studs can usefully hold the housing off the ground and provide a cushioning, non-slip and non- scratching surface. The feet contact the ground when the legs are stowed. A skirt, such as a rigid perimeter extending down beyond the housing can also provide protection to any legs stowed below the housing. The height of the feet and/or skirt is typically about 0.5cm to 15cm. In an embodiment the legs in the stowed position fit within a channel, the skirt defining one side of the channel. Such a channel helps to protect the legs and helps to guide the legs into their stowed/folded position. The skirt may be flared to accommodate legs that are splayed.

In an embodiment the housing comprises a base portion, wherein the base portion is set off the ground. In an embodiment the base portion is set off the ground by the skirt and/or feet. In an embodiment the base portion comprises one or more openings, the openings adapted to hold one or more removable containers. In an embodiment the one or more removable containers are set off the ground. In an embodiment the removable container is a tool tray or tool tote. In an embodiment the tool tray comprises a handle. In some circumstances, when at the worksite, it can be useful to have the option to remove items such as tools from the utility space for use away from the workstation, or with the workstation. The embodiment allows the base of the workstation/toolbox to be reversibly removable. When the base is in the form of a tool tray, tools can be removed and relocated with the removable base. When the work is done, the tool tray base can be replaced, along with any tools it holds. In some circumstances, it might be useful to have free access to the underside of the worktop, and this can be achieved by removing the base, with any tools being safely stowed in the removed tool tray base. In an embodiment, there are multiple trays, arranged to sit one on top of another, such that they are stacked inside the housing. The trays may each be provided with profiled sides, such that, when stacked, the sides of an upper tray overlap with those of a lower tray, reducing the likelihood of liquid or dust ingress into the trays.

In an embodiment the base portion comprises one or more removable covers, the covers being adapted to cover the one or more openings and/or removable containers; optionally, the one or more removable covers create a false bottom. In an embodiment the cover is a tray. In some circumstances it might be useful to stow items in a compartment below the main storage area. A false bottom might be useful to store valuables or expensive items. In an embodiment the housing comprises a front panel and/or a back panel and/or side panels. For example, the housing of the workstation may be a cuboidal frame, the frame may be filled with one or more panels, or the housing may be made of one or more panels. The panels may be fixed or not fixed. When not fixed they may be opened to allowed access to the utility space. In an embodiment the front panel and/or back panel are foldable or slidable, allowing access to the utility space. In an embodiment the front panel and/or back panel slide downwards. In an embodiment the front panel and/or back panel are foldable into the utility space or out away from the utility space. The panels may be folded into the utility space or away from the utility space. The panels may also be slidable. When slid downward or folded inward, the panel is less likely to get damaged and takes up less room around the workstation. In an embodiment, when in the folded position, the front and/or back panel can fit over the base portion forming a base panel. When folded into the utility space the panel may be used to create a base panel, this might be done for example when a base portion (e.g. taking the form of a tool tray), is removed from the utility space. In an embodiment the front panel and/or back panel fold away from the utility space. In an embodiment the front panel and/or back panel fold away from the utility space to form a horizontal panel. In some circumstances, it can be useful to have a panel extending out from the workstation, for example to hold drawings or plans. A panel may be arranged to slide upwards from the side of the housing, such that it extends substantially vertically from the top or near the top of the housing. In this configuration, the panel may be used to display drawings or plans needed for reference. It is possible that a panel may be arranged to fold both into the utility space, or away from the utility space. The panel may comprise one or more creases to aid folding, and may be held in place by a reversible locking means, such as a catch or bolt. The panel may comprise a lock or allow a padlock to be attached.

In an embodiment the housing comprises one or more side panels. In an embodiment the one or more side panels are foldable or slidable to allow access to the utility space. In an embodiment the side panels slide downwards. In an embodiment the side panel allows access to a compartment within the utility space.

In an embodiment the housing is a box open at the top, and optionally the box is substantially rectangular. In an embodiment the housing comprises, or is a toolbox. In an embodiment the utility space comprises, or is a toolbox.

In an embodiment the workstation comprises an electronic/electrical unit. Accordingly, there is provided a workstation or bench comprising an electronic or electrical unit. In an embodiment the electronic/electrical unit comprises one or more of: an electrical power board; electrical power extension lead; electrical power plug; power surge cut-out/control unit; speaker; radio; central processing unit; data storage unit; display screen; multimedia unit; multimedia player; phone; media ports such as a USB port; means to connect to the internet; first aid kit; and a kit of tool bits. In an embodiment the electrical unit is within the utility space. In an embodiment the electrical unit is within a compartment within the utility space. In an embodiment the electrical unit is within a side compartment within the utility space. In many circumstances it may be necessary to use the workstation with mains powered tools (power tools). Often the work location is not close to an electrical power socket. A workman is often required to carry an extension lead to bring a power supply near the site of work. In an embodiment, the workstation conveniently includes an electrical power board, with an extension lead and power plug. The mounted extension lead of the embodiment can be connected to the mains supply. Power tools can then be connected to the power board mounted in/on the workstation. This has the advantage that the user always has an extension lead with them and reduces the length of the cable running directly from the power tool to the mains supply. Also, because the power board can be mounted in an elevated position, when the workstation is in a deployed state, there is less weight from the cables hanging on the power tool. Overall, an integrated power board would make working with power tools easier and help to reduce accidents from dangling cables. A surge protection device could be integrated into the unit, in case a power cable is accidentally cut. A convenient location for an electrical unit would be in a compartment in the utility space that can be accessed from a side panel, or it could be stowed below the utility space. The workstation could also include other electrical devices to improve the user's environment, e.g. to be able to play music from an integrated radio or multimedia system. In many circumstances access to the internet may be useful.

In an embodiment the utility space houses one or more drawers; optionally the drawers are removable. In an embodiment the workstation comprises one or more leaves, which may be reversibly extended from the worktop, utility space or housing; optionally the one or more leaves comprise a pen/pencil holder. In an embodiment the workstation comprises one or more tool hanging hooks. In an embodiment the tool-hanging hook has a deployed and stowed position, wherein when in the deployed position the hook protrudes from the workstation, and in the stowed position the hook does not protrude from the workstation. Optionally, in the stowed position the hook lies flush with a surface of the workstation. In some circumstances it can be useful to have a tool hook to temporarily hang a tool from (such as a saw). Using a tool hook means that the tool does not need to be put on the worktop (where it may be in the way or could be knocked off), or placed on the floor where it could be damaged. When the hook is not needed it can be placed in a position (e.g. folded away) where it will not catch onto items such as clothes or tools.

In an embodiment the workstation comprises a handle. In an embodiment the handle has a stowed position and a deployed position. The handle may, for example, be a telescopic handle, extendable from one end of the housing. Alternatively, the handle may form part of, or be positioned next to, under, over or around the worktop. The handle may be extendable, so that it can be moved from its stored position to a position in which it may be used to lift the workstation. In an embodiment the workstation comprises one or more wheels or casters. In an embodiment the wheels or casters contact the ground when the workstation is tipped. In an embodiment, the toolbox is sufficiently compact to be carried by the user. It may useful for the user to be able to drag the workstation to a location on wheels or casters. In an embodiment, when the workstation is not being moved, the wheels or casters are prevented from contacting the ground by feet located on the bottom of the workstation. However, when tipped at an angle (e.g. by a handle) the wheels or casters contact the ground and the workstation can be towed or pushed. In an embodiment the minimum operable height of the worktop is defined by the height of the worktop when the worktop is retracted and the legs are in the stowed position. In an embodiment the operable height for the worktop is obtainable by (i) extending the worktop to the extended position, or an intermediate extended position, and/or (ii) positioning the legs in the deployed position, or an intermediate deployed position; and optionally extending any extendable legs to the extended position, or an intermediate extended position. In an embodiment the operable height is in the range 20cm to 150cm; optionally 40cm to 90cm; further optionally 50cm to 80cm; still further optionally 59.5cm to 77.5cm. In an embodiment the maximum operable height is not greater than the sum of: (i) the length of the minimum operable height; (ii) 1 , 1 .25, 1 .5, 1 .75 or 2 times the length of the longest edge of the housing; and (iii) 1 , 1 .25, 1 .5, 1 .75 or 2 times the vertical length of the housing. In an embodiment the maximum operable height is not greater than the sum of: (i) the length of the minimum operable height; (ii) the length of the longest edge of the housing; and (iii) the vertical length of the housing.

In an embodiment, the worktop is provided with means to attach a further toolbox. For example, the worktop may be provided with one part of one or more connection means, which may mate with the other part of the connection means on the toolbox to be attached. The connection means may be for example a protrusion or recess and a clip or catch. Accordingly, the workstation may be provided with, or comprise, a removable toolbox, attached to the worktop.

In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a portable toolbox comprising: a lid, the lid comprising a vertically adjustable worktop, the worktop adjustable from a retracted position to an extended position; adjustable legs moveably connected to the toolbox, the legs adjustable from a stowed position to a deployed position; and wherein the legs in the stowed position are under the toolbox and substantially within the footprint defined by the toolbox and/or worktop; and wherein in use the worktop can be adjusted to a convenient working height by extending or retracting the worktop, and/or by deploying or stowing the legs.

In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a use of a workstation or toolbox as defined in the first or second aspects of the invention as a platform, step, table, worktop, sawhorse, vice, workbench and/or toolbox.

In a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a workstation or toolbox substantially as herein described with reference to or as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

The present invention will now be further described with reference to the following non-limiting examples and the accompanying illustrative drawings, of which: Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention, where the worktop is extended, the legs are deployed and the utility space is unoccupied.

Figure 2 is a front top view of another embodiment of the invention, where the worktop is retracted, the legs are deployed, and the utility space is arranged to hold a tool tray and a drawer. Figure 3 is a side view of the embodiment shown in Figure 2, showing an open side panel to a side compartment.

Figure 4 is a back view of an embodiment shown in Figure 2, in a compact configuration, where the worktop is retracted and the legs are folded in a stowed position. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the embodiment in Figure 1 , where the legs are reversibly extendible.

Figure 6 shows an embodiment where the workstation is equipped with an extendable leaf.

Figure 7a and 7b shows an embodiment where the workstation is equipped with a deployable tool hook.

Figure 8 shoes an embodiment of the worktop locking mechanism.

Figure 9 shows an end view of the inside of the workstation, showing the locking mechanism for the worktop.

Figure 10 shows end and side views of an embodiment of the workstation of the invention in an extended position, including example sizing.

Figure 1 1 shows the top of the workstation with connecting toolbox.

Like features have been given like reference numerals. Detailed description of the invention

Figure 1 is an embodiment (100) of the workstation of the invention, the embodiment having four splayed legs (40) pivotally connected to the housing (10) by pivot pins (41). The housing (10) is a frame-like structure having two opposing faces that are connected by two horizontal members. The frame has an open top, bottom, front and back, with the sides being closed by a panel (1 1). The utility space (20) is substantially unoccupied. However, an appropriately sized tray (not shown) could be inserted to form a bottom panel. The housing along its lower edge is equipped with a flared skirt (42). Attached at each inner corner of the substantially rectangular housing are runner compartments, which are open at the top to house runners (31). The runners can move up and down in the runner compartment and are attached to the wooden worktop (30), the worktop being substantially planer and lying parallel to the ground. In use, the worktop can be extended or retracted by releasing the locking pin (32), and then moving the worktop upwards or downwards. A locking mechanism (33) can also be used to control the height of the worktop and keep it from moving once locked. The worktop can be fixed in position by returning the locking pin, which engages with a hole in the runner. The locking pin is spring biased to the closed position. In use, the pairs of deployed legs can be folded together, pivoting on the pivot pins. In use, the legs can be placed in a stowed position under the housing and are substantially parallel to the ground. The legs have a substantially V-shaped cross- section and can fold within each other. The legs in a stowed position fit within a channel, the outer part of the channel being formed by the flared skirt. A carrying handle (not shown) is pivotally connected to the housing. Feet (not shown) are also fixed to the bottom of the workstation, and prevent the legs in the stowed position contacting the ground. In use, in a compacted configuration, the housing and legs fall within the footprint of the worktop. The worktop in the embodiment has a horizontal area of approximately 80cm x 30cm, the side panel has a horizontal area of approximately 30cm x 30cm, the legs are approximately 60cm long, and the runners are approximately 25cm long. Figure 2 is another embodiment (101) of the workstation of the invention. Like Figure 1 , the embodiment has four splayed legs (40) pivotally connected to the housing (10) by pivot pins (41 ). The housing has two opposing side faces that are connected by horizontal members. The frame has an open top and front. The bottom is closed by a removal bottom panel (12) made of sheet metal. The sides and back are not open (not shown). The workstation is equipped with side compartments (23), accessible from the side. The utility space (20) has a storage compartment adapted to fit a drawer (21) and a tool tray (22). Appropriate fittings allow the drawer and tool tray to be slid in and out of the storage compartment. These may also be reversibly locked in place. Like the embodiment shown in Figure 1 , the worktop is also mounted on runners (not shown), and can be adjusted up and down. The worktop (30') is shown in a retracted position and forms a lid over the housing. Splayed legs can be folded together on pivot pins and placed in a stowed position under the housing and lying

substantially parallel to the ground. The legs have a solid cross-section and the pairs of legs fold on top of each other. In use, the legs in a stowed position fit within a channel, the outer part of the channel being formed by the flared skirt (42). A carrying handle (not shown) is pivotally connected to the housing. In use, in a compacted configuration, the housing and legs fall within the footprint of the worktop. The worktop in this embodiment has a horizontal area of approximately 60cm x 25cm, the side panel has a horizontal area of approximately 25cm x 25cm, the legs are approximately 40cm long, and the runners are approximately 20cm long.

Figure 3 is a side view of an embodiment of the workstation, such as that shown in figure 2. In this view, side panel (1 1 ') has been slid downwards to allow access to a side compartment (23). The side compartment contains a mounted power board, a power extension lead (not shown) and a power plug (not shown).

Figure 4 is a back view of the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3, in which the workstation is in a compact configuration. The back face of the housing is closed with fixed back panel (13). The worktop (30') is in the retracted position forming the lid of the workstation. The legs (40') are in the stowed position and are attached to the housing (10) by pivot pins (41 ). The legs are folded on top of each other and fit under the housing and are located in a channel. The outer part of the channel is formed by the flared skirt (42). In use, the workstation can be moved from the compact configuration to an open configuration by deploying the legs, by moving the legs on the pivot pins, and/or by moving the worktop upwards on the runners.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 . In this embodiment, the legs are replaced with reversibly extendible legs, with a telescopic portion (43) of the leg extending from the main portion (44) of the leg. A reversibly locking pin (45) holds the extended portion in place. A metal tray (14) has been inserted to form a base panel. A tool (50) is shown hanging from a tool hook (15). Figure 6 shows an embodiment in which the workstation is equipped with an extendable leaf (35), and the leaf is stowed under the worktop and can be slid out from under the worktop on runners (not shown). The leaf is dimpled/textured (36) to hold small objects like pencils, screws etc., or has holes (37) to temporarily allow stowing of tools like screwdrivers.

Figure 7a and 7b shows an embodiment in which the workstation is equipped with a deployable tool hook (15), the hook being pivotally mounted (16) on the housing and lying flush with the housing (10). The tool hook is deployed in Figure 7a and stowed in Figure 7b. Figure 8 shows a view of a locking mechanism (33') for use with embodiments of the invention, for reversibly adjusting the height of the worktop. Restraining pins (34) lie within the utility space and can be pinched together to release the runner (31) in the runner compartment (38), allowing the worktop to be moved up and down. Releasing the restraining pins returns them to a locking position as they engage a hole in the runner. A stop mechanism (39) prevents the worktop being over extended.

As shown in figure 9, the mechanism may be arranged such that it may be operated with one hand, and so that the restraining pins may be held in the withdrawn position, whilst the worktop is moved to the desired height. The mechanism may be provided with a slider (40), connected to the two restraining pins by a pulley system (41 ). The slider may be pulled in the direction shown by arrow A, which causes the two restraining pins (34) to be drawn towards each other, and away from the runner. The mechanism is also provided with a locking lever (42), having a lug (43). The lever may be pivoted towards the slider, such that the lug engages with a recess (44) on the slider, holding the slider in place. The restraining pins are then held in position, so that the runners may move up and down in the runner compartment, allowing the worktop to be lifted or lowered. Once the worktop is in approximately the right place, the lever may be disengaged from the slider. The restraining pins are biased towards the runners, by way of springs (45), and spring back towards the runners. The pins each engage with a hole (46) in the runners, to lock the worktop in place.

If the workstation is regularly used by the same person, it may be desirable to have the worktop lock in place automatically when it is raised to the correct height. This may be achieved by virtue of the positioning bar (47) shown in figure 9. The bar is provided with a serious of holes (48), into which a bolt (49) may be reversibly positioned. The bolt extends from the bar, towards the locking mechanism. When the worktop is raised to the correct position, the bolt engages with the lever (42), causing it to disengage from the slider and release the restraining pins.

Also shown in figure 9, the side panel (1 1 ') of the housing may be set against the frame of the housing, creating a recess which may be used to store a first aid kit, or other small items. The housing may be provided with one or more clips to hold such items in place.

Figure 10 provides example sizing of the workstation.

Figure 1 1 shows a toolbox (50) that may be attached to the workstation. The toolbox is provided with a clip (51) at each end, which may engage with a protrusion (52) on the worktop, connecting the two together. The toolbox as shown may be provided with a handle (53), to allow the workstation and toolbox to be easily carried.