Multi-purpose stand

#This invention relates to a knockdown stand assembly for supporting a container or other article. The knockdown stand assembly is particularly suited for inclusion in a kit which includes the components of the knockdown stand assembly, a container adapted to be supported by the knockdown stand assembly and a pedestal for alternatively supporting the container.

#This invention relates to stands of the type which are employed to support an ice bucket, planter or similar containers. Currently available stands of this type are made of metal wherein the individual components are welded together or fastened by threaded fasteners. In other words, they comprise permanent assemblies which are difficult or impossible to dismantle for storage purposes. Since with the exception of restaurants and the like, a stand for supporting an ice bucket is used on a periodic basis, the types of stands presently available are impractical for private use.

#In addition to the foregoing, currently available stands of this type are rather expensive. This is due in great part to the fact that such stands are made of metal, such as stainless steel or the like. The design of the instant invention permits the use of less costly plastic materials, such as polystyrene, which results in a less expensive lightweight stand. The unique design of the knockdown stand combines the required functional features in an aesthetic manner to produce a stand of exceptional utility and pleasing appearance.

#Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:

#FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a knockdown stand constructed in accordance with the instant invention;

#FIG. 2 is a plan view of the five diassembled components of the knockdown stand;

#Referring more particularly to the drawings, a knockdown stand constructed in accordance with the instant invention is generally shown at 10 in FIG. 1.

#The knockdown stand assembly 10 includes three leg members 11, 12 and 13. The leg members are held together at an intermediate point by an intermediate retaining member 14 which, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 8, includes three symmetrically located openings 16 for receiving the leg members 11, 12 and 13. The leg members 11, 12 and 13 are generally T-shaped in transverse cross section as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. It is noted, however, that other shapes may be employed. Due to the fact that the leg members 11, 12 and 13 are T-shaped in transverse cross section, the openings 16 in the intermediate retaining member 14 have a similar shape.

#In order to establish a connection between the leg members 11, 12 and 13 and the intermediate retaining member 14, the leg members include locating means, generally indicated at 18 in FIG. 3, for locating the intermediate retaining member 14. The locating means 18 consists of a wedge-shaped enlarged section 20. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the wedge-shaped enlarged section is formed by abruptly increasing the size of the standard cross section 22 of the leg thereby forming a shoulder 24. The sides of the leg member are then tapered upwardly and inwardly until the standard cross section is again established. As shown in FIG. 3, the length of the tapered section is approximately equal to the thickness of the intermediate retaining member 14. The openings 16 in the intermediate retaining member 14, as shown in FIG. 9, include upwardly tapered walls 26 which correspond to the taper of the wedge-shaped enlarged section 20. Hence, the walls of the openings 16 in the intermediate retaining member 14 snugly engage and seat on the wedge-shaped enlarged sections 20.