Patent Application
20160270522
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to tables and, in particular, to tables that are capable of being folded and unfolded.
2. Description of Related Art
Many different types of tables are well known and used for a variety of different purposes. For example, conventional tables may include legs that are pivotally attached to a tabletop and the legs may be movable between a use position in which the legs extend outwardly from the tabletop and a storage position in which the legs are folded against an underneath portion of the tabletop. Conventional tables with relatively large tabletops and folding legs are often referred to as “banquet tables” and these tables are frequently used in assembly halls, banquet halls, convention centers, hotels, schools, churches, and other locations where large groups of people meet. When the tables are no longer needed, the table legs can be moved into the storage position and the tables may be moved or stored.
Conventional banquet tables with movable legs may allow the table to be more conveniently stored. The tabletop for many conventional banquet tables with movable legs, however, retains its size and shape. For example, many known banquet tables have a length between six and ten feet and a width between three and four feet. As a result, many conventional banquet tables require a large storage area even when the legs are in the collapsed position. This large storage area may be especially problematic for larger facilities such as hotels, schools, and churches because a considerable number of tables may have to be stored. Thus, a significant amount of space may be required to store the tables. In addition, smaller facilities such as restaurants, offices, and homes may use one or more conventional banquet tables. These smaller facilities may use the tables less frequently, such as during special occasions. Conventional banquet tables, even when the legs are folded, are often too bulky and awkward to be conveniently used and stored at such smaller facilities. As a result, it is often necessary for both larger and smaller facilities to rent and/or borrow banquet tables when needed. Disadvantageously, this process of renting and/or borrowing banquet tables can be inconvenient, time consuming and costly.
Conventional banquet tables are also often difficult to move or transport from one location to another. For example, because of the length of many conventional banquet tables, it is often difficult for a single person to move the table. In addition, the extended length of conventional banquet tables may preclude the tables from being transported in the trunk or back seat of a typical passenger car. Accordingly, conventional banquet tables may have to be transported by truck, trailer, or an oversized vehicle such as a sports utility vehicle. These and other factors may make conventional banquet tables difficult, time consuming, and expensive to move.
It is also known to construct tables that are capable of being folded in half. Conventional fold-in-half tables may include a tabletop with two sections pivotally connected by hinges. The two sections usually have the same size and shape, and the hinges are typically located at the center or middle of the tabletop. The two sections of the tabletop may be moved between an unfolded position which the sections of the tabletop are generally aligned in the same plane and a folded or collapsed position in which the two sections are positioned generally adjacent to each other for storage.
Disadvantageously, many conventional fold-in-half tables with foldable tabletops are unable to support a significant amount of weight. For example, the connection between the two sections of the tabletop for many known fold-in-half tables is relatively weak, which may cause, for example, a portion of the tabletop to sag or slump. Additionally, the connection between the tabletop sections for many known fold-in-half tables may be relatively frail and may break if a significant load or force is applied to the tabletop. In order to construct a stronger table, it is known to increase the size and thickness of the frame, but this may undesirably increase the weight and cost of the table.
A need therefore exists for a table that eliminates or diminishes the disadvantages and problems described above.
One aspect is a folding table that may include a tabletop, a frame, a truss support structure, and one or more support structures. The tabletop may be a folding table top that is movable between a folded position and an unfolded position. The tabletop may include a first tabletop section and a second tabletop section. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may generally be aligned in the same plane when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be disposed generally adjacent and parallel to each other when the tabletop is in the folded position. The frame may be connected to the tabletop. The frame may include a side rail with a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section. The first rail section may at least partially define a first opening. The second rail section may at least partially define a second opening substantially aligned with the first opening. The frame may include a center cross member that is may at least partially positioned in the first and second openings. The center cross member may be aligned with an axis of rotation about which the frame rotates between the folded and unfolded positions. The axis of rotation may be located between an outer surface of the first side rail and an inner surface of the first side rail. The first rail section and the second rail section may be disposed in an offset configuration such that the truss support structure is disposed between the first rail section and the second rail section. The offset configuration may enable an outer surface of the first rail section and an outer surface of the second rail section to both contact a lower surface of the tabletop when the tabletop is in the folded position. The truss support structure may be connected to the first rail section and the second rail section of the side rail. The truss support structure may extend across an interface between the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The truss support structure may include a center support member that is coupled to the center cross member, a first support member that includes an end connected to the center support member and another end connected to the first rail section, and a second support member that includes an end connected to the center support member and another end connected to the second rail section. The center support member may include a first end at which the center support member is coupled to the center cross member and a second end opposite the first end. The first support member and the second support member may be connected at the second end of the center support member. When the tabletop is in the unfolded position, the center support member may extend substantially normal to a lower surface of the tabletop such that the second end of the center support member is displaced from the lower surface of the tabletop by a distance, gap, or space. The one or more support structures are configured to support the tabletop above a surface.
Advantageously, the folding table may be configured in the folded position and in the unfolded position. In the folded position, the offset configuration may enable the truss support structure to be stored within the folding table. The folded position may also enable a volume occupied by the folding table to be reduced, which may further enable the folding table to be stored and transported conveniently. In the unfolded position, the truss support structure may provide support to the tabletop. The truss support structure may allow the table to support a larger load relative to tables without the truss support structure.
Another aspect is a folding table that may include a tabletop, a frame, a truss support structure, a connecting member, and one or more support structures. The tabletop may be movable between a folded position and an unfolded position. The tabletop may include a first tabletop section and a second tabletop section. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may generally be aligned in the same plane when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be disposed generally adjacent and parallel to each other when the tabletop is in the folded position. The frame may be connected to the tabletop. The frame may include a side rail with a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section. The connecting member may be attached to the first rail section. The truss support structure may be connected to the first rail section and the second rail section of the side rail. The truss support structure may extend across an interface between the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The truss support structure may include a center support member that is coupled to the center cross member, a first support member that includes an end connected to the center support member and another end connected to the first rail section, and a second support member that includes an end connected to the center support member and another end connected to the second rail section. The first support member may include a rod and a first end of the first support member may be pivotally connected to the center support member. A second end of the first support member may include an adjusting mechanism. The first support member may be slidably disposed within the connecting member. In detail, when the tabletop is in the folded position the center support member may be disposed between the first rail section and the second rail section, and the second end of the first support member may be separated or spaced apart from the connecting member such that a portion of the first support member between the first end and the second end is positioned in the connecting member. When the tabletop is in the unfolded position the center support member may extend substantially normal to a lower surface of the tabletop and the adjusting mechanism may contact the connecting member.
Yet another aspect is a folding table that may include a tabletop, a frame, a truss support structure, a connecting member, and one or more support structures. The tabletop may be movable between a folded position and an unfolded position. The tabletop may include a first tabletop section and a second tabletop section. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may generally be aligned in the same plane when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be disposed generally adjacent and parallel to each other when the tabletop is in the folded position. The frame may be connected to the tabletop. The frame may include a side rail with a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section. The connecting member may be attached to the first rail section. The truss support structure may be connected to the first rail section and the second rail section of the side rail. The truss support structure may extend across an interface between the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The truss support structure may include a center support member that is coupled to the center cross member, a first support member that includes a first end connected to the center support member and a second end connected to the first rail section, and a second support member that includes a first end connected to the center support member and a second end connected to the second rail section. For example, the first support member may include a first link and a second link. The first link may include a pin or another engaging portion. The second link may define a slot or another a receiving portion in which the pin is positioned. The first end of the first support member may be pivotally connected to the center support member. The second end of the first support member may be pivotally connected to the second rail section. Movement of the first link relative to the second link may translate the pin in the slot and adjust a length of the first support member. In detail, when the tabletop is in the unfolded position, the center support member may be oriented substantially normal to a lower surface of the tabletop and the pin may be in contact with a first end of the slot. When the tabletop is in the folded position, the center support member may be disposed between the first rail section and the second rail section and the pin may be positioned between the first end and a second end of the slot.
Still another aspect is a folding table that may include a tabletop, a frame, a truss support structure, and one or more support structures. The tabletop may be movable between a folded position and an unfolded position. The tabletop may include a first tabletop section and a second tabletop section. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may generally be aligned in the same plane when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be disposed generally adjacent and parallel to each other when the tabletop is in the folded position. The frame may be connected to the tabletop. The frame may include a first side rail with a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section. The frame may include a center cross member that extends across a center portion of the tabletop. The center cross member may be aligned with an axis of rotation about which the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section rotate between the folded and unfolded positions. The first rail section of the first side rail may be disposed a first distance from a first side of the tabletop. The second rail section of the first side rail may be disposed a second distance from the first side. The truss support structure may be disposed between the first rail section of the first side rail and the second rail section of the first side rail. The truss support structure may be connected to the frame. The truss support structure may extend across an interface between the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section when the tabletop is in the unfolded position, may be disposed between the first rail section and the second rail section of the first side rail when the tabletop is in the folded position, and may be configured to transfer a load applied to an upper surface of the tabletop to inward resultant forces that press the first tabletop section against the second tabletop section. The truss support structure may include a center support member coupled to the center cross member, a first support member connected to the center support member and to the first rail section, and a second support member connected to the center support member and to the second rail section. A length of the first support member may be adjustable. A length of the second support member may be adjustable. For example, the first support member may include a first link and a second link. The first link may include a pin or another engaging portion. The second link may define a slot or another receiving portion in which the pin is positioned. The first end of the first support member may be pivotally connected to the center support member and the second end of the first support member may be pivotally connected to the center support member. Translation of the pin in the slot may adjust the length of the first support member. In detail, when the tabletop is in the unfolded position, the center support member is oriented substantially normal to a lower surface of the tabletop and the pin is in contact with a first slot end of the slot. When the tabletop is in the folded position, the center support member may be disposed between the first rail section of the first side rail and the second rail section of the first rail and the pin may be positioned between the first slot end and a second slot end. In another example, a connecting member may be attached to the first rail section of the first side rail. The first support member may be a rod with a first end that is pivotally connected to the center support member and the rod may be slidably disposed within the connecting member. The one or more support structures may be configured to support the tabletop above a surface.
A further aspect is a folding table that may include a tabletop, a frame, a first truss support structure, a second truss support structure, a first support structure, and a second support structure. The tabletop may be movable between a folded position and an unfolded position. The tabletop may include a first tabletop section and a second tabletop section. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be generally aligned in the same plane when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be disposed generally adjacent and parallel to each other when the tabletop is in the folded position. The frame may be connected to the tabletop. The frame may include a first side rail with a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section, a second side rail that includes a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section, and a center cross member that extends across a center portion of the tabletop. The center cross member may be aligned with an axis of rotation about which the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section rotate between the folded and unfolded positions. The first rail section of the first side rail may include an interface end positioned at an interface between the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section. The second rail section of the first side rail may include an interface end positioned at the interface. The first rail section of the second side rail may include an interface end positioned at the interface. The second rail section of the second side rail may include an interface end positioned at the interface. The first rail section of the first side rail may define at least a portion of an opening at the interface end. The second rail section of the first side rail may define at least a portion of an opening at the interface end. The first rail section of the second side rail may define at least a portion of an opening at the interface end. The second rail section of the second side rail may define at least a portion of an opening at the interface end. The center cross member may be at least partially disposed in one or more of the openings. The first truss support structure may be connected to the first rail section of the first side rail, the second rail section of the first side rail, and the center cross member. The first truss support structure may be configured to extend across the interface between the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section when the tabletop is in the unfolded position and may be at least partially disposed between the first rail section of the first side rail and the second rail section of the first side rail when the tabletop is in the folded position. The second truss support structure may be connected to the first rail section of the second side rail, the second rail section of the second side rail, and the center cross member. The second truss support structure may be configured to extend across the interface when the tabletop is in the unfolded position and may be at least partially disposed between the first rail section of the second side rail and the second rail section of the second side rail when the tabletop is in the folded position. The first and second truss support structures may each include a center support member, a first support member, and a second support member. The center support members may each include a first end at which the center support members are coupled to the center cross member and a second end opposite the first end. The first support members and the second support members may be pivotally connected at the second ends of the center support members. In detail, when the tabletop is in the unfolded position, the center support members may extend substantially normal to a lower surface of the tabletop such that the second ends of the center support members are displaced from the lower surface of the tabletop. When the tabletop is in the folded position, the center support member of the first truss support structure may be at least partially disposed between the first rail section and the second rail section of the first side rail and the center support member of the second truss support structure may be disposed between the first rail section and the second rail section of the second side rail. The first support structure may be connected to the first tabletop section. The first support structure may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the first tabletop section. The second support structure may be connected to the second tabletop section. The second support structure may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the second tabletop section.
A still further aspect is a folding table that may include a tabletop, a frame, a first truss support structure, a second truss support structure, a first support structure, and a second support structure. The tabletop may be movable between a folded position and an unfolded position. The tabletop may include a first tabletop section and a second tabletop section. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be generally aligned in the same plane when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be disposed generally adjacent and parallel to each other when the tabletop is in the folded position. The frame may be connected to the tabletop. The frame may include a first side rail with a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section, a second side rail with a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section, and a center cross member that may extend across a center portion of the tabletop. The center cross member may be aligned with an axis of rotation about which the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section rotate between the folded and unfolded positions. The first truss support structure may be connected to the first rail section of the first side rail, the second rail section of the first side rail, and the center cross member. The first truss support structure may be configured to extend across the interface between the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section when the tabletop is in the unfolded position and may be disposed between the first rail section of the first side rail and the second rail section of the first side rail when the tabletop is in the folded position. The second truss support structure may be connected to the first rail section of the second side rail, the second rail section of the second side rail, and the center cross member. The second truss support structure may be configured to extend across the interface when the tabletop is in the unfolded position and may be disposed between the first rail section of the second side rail and the second rail section of the second side rail when the tabletop is in the folded position. The first and second truss support structures may each include a center support member, a first support member, and a second support member. The center support members may each include a first end at which the center support members are coupled to the center cross member and a second end opposite the first end. The first support members and the second support members may be pivotally connected at the second ends of the center support members. The folding table may include a first connecting member attached to the first rail section of the first side rail, a second connecting member attached to the second rail section of the first side rail, a third connecting member attached to the first rail section of the second side rail, and a fourth connecting member attached to the second rail section of the second side rail. The first support members and the second support members may be rods. The first adjusting mechanism may be positioned at an end of the first support member of the first truss support structure. A second adjusting mechanism may be positioned at an end of the second support member of the first truss support structure. A third adjusting mechanism may be positioned at an end of the first support member of the second truss support structure. A fourth adjusting mechanism may be positioned at an end of the second support member of the second truss support structure. The first support member of the first truss support structure may be slidably disposed within the first connecting member. The second support member of the first truss support structure may be slidably disposed within the second connecting member. The first support member of the second truss support structure may be slidably disposed within the third connecting member. The second support member of the second truss support structure may be slidably disposed within the fourth connecting member. In detail, when the tabletop is in the folded position, the ends of the first support members may be separated from the first and third connecting members such that portions of the first support members are positioned in the first and third connecting members and the ends of the second support members may be separated from the second and fourth connecting members such that portions of the second support members are positioned in the second and fourth connecting members. When the tabletop is in the unfolded position, the adjusting mechanisms may contact the connecting members. The first support structure may be connected to the first tabletop section. The first support structure may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the first tabletop section. The second support structure may be connected to the second tabletop section. The second support structure may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the second tabletop section.
Another further aspect is a folding table that may include a tabletop, a frame, a first truss support structure, a second truss support structure, a first support structure, and a second support structure. The tabletop may be movable between a folded position and an unfolded position. The tabletop may include a first tabletop section and a second tabletop section. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be generally aligned in the same plane when the tabletop is in the unfolded position. The first tabletop section and the second tabletop section may be disposed generally adjacent and parallel to each other when the tabletop is in the folded position. The frame may be connected to the tabletop. The frame may include a first side rail that includes a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section, a second side rail that includes a first rail section connected to the first tabletop section and a second rail section connected to the second tabletop section, and a center cross member that extends across a center portion of the tabletop. The center cross member may be aligned with an axis of rotation about which the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section rotate between the folded and unfolded positions. The first truss support structure may be connected to the first rail section of the first side rail, the second rail section of the first side rail, and the center cross member. The first truss support structure may be configured to extend across the interface between the first tabletop section and the second tabletop section when the tabletop is in the unfolded position and may be disposed between the first rail section of the first side rail and the second rail section of the first side rail when the tabletop is in the folded position. The second truss support structure may be connected to the first rail section of the second side rail, the second rail section of the second side rail, and the center cross member. The second truss support structure may be configured to extend across the interface when the tabletop is in the unfolded position and may be disposed between the first rail section of the second side rail and the second rail section of the second side rail when the tabletop is in the folded position. The first and second truss support structures may each include a center support member, a first support member, and a second support member. The center support members may each include a first end at which the center support members are coupled to the center cross member and a second end opposite the first end. The first support members and the second support members may be pivotally connected at the second ends of the center support members. The first support members and the second support members may each include a first link that includes a pin or another engaging portion which may be translationally coupled to a second link that defines a slot or another receiving portion in which the pin of the first link is positioned. Movement of the first links relative to the second links translates the pins in the slots and adjusts lengths of the first and second support members. In detail, when the tabletop is in the unfolded position, the pins are in contact with first ends of the slots. When the tabletop is in the folded position, the pins are positioned between the first ends and second ends of the slots. The first support structure may be connected to the first tabletop section. The first support structure may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the first tabletop section. The second support structure may be connected to the second tabletop section. The second support structure may be movable between an extended position and a collapsed position relative to the second tabletop section.
These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following brief description of the drawings, the drawings, the detailed description of preferred embodiments and appended claims.
The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments to further illustrate and clarify the above and other aspects, advantages and features of the present invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict only preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
The present invention is directed towards folding tables. The principles of the present invention, however, are not limited to folding tables. It will be understood that, in light of the present disclosure, the tables and features disclosed herein can be successfully used in connection with other types of tables, furniture, and the like.
Additionally, to assist in the description of the tables, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, right, and left may be used to describe the accompanying figures. It will be appreciated that the tables can be disposed in other positions, used in a variety of situations and may perform a number of different functions. In addition, the drawings may be to scale and may illustrate various configurations, arrangements, aspects, and features of the table. It will be appreciated, however, that the tables may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table. Further, the table may include any suitable number or combination of aspects, features and the like. A detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the tables now follows.
An exemplary table 10 according to at least one embodiment described in the disclosure, may include a tabletop 12 with an upper surface 14 (
As depicted in
The tabletop 12 may have a generally rectangular configuration with rounded corners. The tabletop 12 may have a relatively large size and the table 10 may be configured for use as a banquet or utility table. For example, the tabletop 12 may have a length defined between the first end 18 and the second end 20 of about five feet (or about sixty inches) and a width defined between the first side 22 and the second side 24 of about two and one-half feet (or about thirty inches), but the tabletop 12 can be larger or smaller. For instance, embodiments of the tabletop 12 might include a length between about six and ten feet and a width of about two and three feet. One skilled in the art will appreciate the tabletop 12 can be larger or smaller; may have other suitable shapes and configurations such as square, circular, oval and the like; and the sides, corners, edges and other portions of the tabletop 12 could have various shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table. Further, the table 10 could be any suitable type of table such as a folding table, non-folding table, card table, personal table, round table, and the like. For instance, it will also be appreciated that the table 10 and its various components may have other shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,530,331; 7,111,563; 7,475,643; 7,814,844; and 7,975,625; each of which are incorporated by reference in its entirety. It will further be appreciated that the table 10 may also include any suitable number and combination of features and aspects depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10.
The tabletop 12 may be constructed from lightweight materials such as plastic. In particular, the tabletop 12 may be constructed from high density polyethylene but other suitable materials can be used. The tabletop 12 may be constructed from plastic and that may allow a relatively strong, lightweight, rigid, and sturdy tabletop to be quickly and easily manufactured. The tabletop 12 when constructed of plastic may also be relatively durable, weather resistant, temperature insensitive, corrosion resistant, rust resistant, and may not deteriorate or maintain structural integrity over time. The tabletop 12 could be constructed from plastics, polymers, synthetic materials and the like. The tabletop 12 could also be constructed from processes such as blow-molding, injection molding, rotational molding, rotary molding, etc. The tabletop 12 may be constructed from other materials with sufficient strength and desirable characteristics such as wood, metals, alloys, composites, fiberglass, ceramics, and the like. The tabletop 12 could be manufactured using one or more other suitable processes.
The table 10 may include one or more support structures 28A and 28B (generally, support structure 28 or support structures 28). The support structures 28 are sized and configured to support the tabletop 12 above a surface (not shown). For example, the table 10 may include a first support structure 28A and a second support structure 28B. The support structures 28 may include one or more legs or supports 30A-30D (generally, support 30 or supports 30).
The support structures 28 may be movable between an extended or use position, which is depicted in
Referring back to
When the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position of
Between the folded position and the unfolded positions, the table 10 may be in a transitional position, which is depicted in
The first and second tabletop sections 32A and 32B may have a generally rectangular configuration with a symmetrical or mirror-image configuration. In the unfolded position, the first and second tabletop sections 32A and 32B may meet at an interface 78 (
Referring to
In greater detail, the first side rail 42A may be disposed towards the first side 22 of the tabletop 12. The first side rail 42A may include a first rail section 46A that is connected to the first tabletop section 32A of the tabletop 12 and a second rail section 46B connected to the second tabletop section 32B of the tabletop 12. The first and second rail sections 46A and 46B of the first side rail 42A may be offset or spaced apart. For example, the first rail section 46A may be offset from the second rail section 46B in the z-direction in the arbitrarily defined coordinate system of
The second side rail 42B may be disposed towards the second side 24 of the tabletop 12. The second side rail 42B may include a first rail section 48A connected to the first tabletop section 32A of the tabletop 12 and a second rail section 48B connected to the second tabletop section 32B of the tabletop 12. The first and second rail sections 48A and 48B of the second side rail 42B may be offset or spaced apart. For example, the first rail section 48A may be offset from the second rail section 48B in the z-direction.
The support structures 28 may be connected to the frame 40. For example, a first cross member 50A may connect the frame 40 and the first support structure 28A and a second cross member 50B may connect the frame 40 and the second support structure 28B.
Ends of the first and second cross members 50A and 50B may be disposed may at least partially in openings in the side rails 42 of the frame 40 to allow the first and second cross members 50A and 50B to rotate relative to the frame 40. The first and second cross members 50A and 50B may form part of the frame 40 and/or the support structures 28, depending, for example, upon the particular arrangement and/or configuration of the table 10. For example, referring to
Referring back to
The center cross member 52 may be aligned with the axis 34 about which the tabletop 12 rotates to transition between the folded and the unfolded positions. The axis 34 may be located between an inner surface of the side rails 42 that contacts the lower surface 16 and an outer surface of the side rails 42 that may face away from the lower surface 16.
The center cross member 52 may be disposed in a fixed position relative to the tabletop 12 or it may pivot, rotate or more relative to the tabletop 12. For example, with reference to
The first rail section 46A of the first side rail 42A may define an opening at the interface end 3. The second rail section 46B of the first side rail 42A may define an opening at the interface end 5. The first rail section 48A of the second side rail 42B may define an opening at the interface end 7. The second rail section 48B of the second side rail 42B may define an opening at the interface end 9. The center cross member 52 may be at least partially disposed in the openings. Alternatively, the center cross member 52 may also be at least partially disposed in one or more receiving portions 38 in some embodiments.
The table 10 of
In addition with reference to
The first truss support structure 54 may include a three member assembly. When the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position, the three members of the truss support structure 54 may form at least a portion of two triangular units that act as trusses to support to the table 10. In particular, the first truss support structure 54 may be configured to provide support to the interface 78 where the first tabletop section 32A meets the second tabletop section 32B.
For example, with reference to
The first truss support structure 54 may transfer at least a portion of the load 60 to the frame 40. For example, a portion of the load 60 may reoriented into inward resultant forces 75 and 77 in the negative x direction and x direction, respectively. The inward resultant forces 75 and 77 may press the first tabletop section 32A against the second tabletop section 32B. Accordingly, the first truss support structure 54 may help counter the moment and/or prevent or reduce rotation about the z-axis. Additionally, the first truss support structure 54 may help counter the displacement. Thus, the first truss support structure 54 may enable larger loads to be placed on the tabletop 12 relative to the tables that do not include the first truss support structure 54.
As discussed above, the first truss support structure 54 is configured to transfer at least a portion of a load applied to an upper surface of the tabletop 12 to inward resultant forces that press the first tabletop section 32A against the second tabletop section 32B. The first truss support structure 54 may be connected to the frame 40. For example, the first truss support structure 54 may be connected to the first rail section 46A or 48A and the second rail section 46B or 48B of the one of the side rails 42A or 42B. The first truss support structure 54 may extend across the interface 78 between the first tabletop section 32A and the second tabletop section 32B when the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position as shown in
The first truss support structure 54 may be at least partially disposed between the first rail section 46A or 48A and the second rail section 46B or 48B and may maintain this disposition throughout the folded position, the transitional position, and the unfolded position. The first truss support structure 54 may be at least partially disposed between the first rail section 46A or 48A and the second rail section 46B or 48B in the unfolded position as shown in
The first truss support structure 54 may include a center support member 62, a first support member 64, and a second support member 66. The center support member 62 of the first truss support structure 54 may be connected to the center cross member 52 of the tabletop 12. The center support member 62 of the first truss support structure 54 may be pivotally connected to the center cross member 52 or may be fixed to the center cross member 52.
The center support member 62 may be a generally flat, rounded rectangular structure. The center support member 62 may include a width in the x-direction that may be equal to or less than a height in the y-direction of the first rail section 48A and/or the second rail section 48B. It will be appreciated, after reviewing this disclosure, that the center support member 62 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10.
With reference to
With reference to
The first and second support members 64 and 66 may be rods with a first end 68 and a second end 70 opposite the first end 68. The rods of
The first end 68 of the first and second support members 64 and 66 may be connected to the center support member 62. In greater detail, the first end 68 of the first and second support members 64 and 66 may be pivotally connected to the center support member 62. For instance, the first end 68 of the rod may be curved and inserted into an opening 72 defined in the second end 82 of the center support member 62.
One or more connecting members 74 may be attached to the frame 40. The connecting members 74 may be attached to the frame 40 between about one-third and about one-half of a distance from the center cross member 52 to the first or second end 18 or 20. The connecting members 74 may also be attached to the frame 40 between about one-half and two-thirds of the distance between the center cross member 52 and the first or second end 18 or 20. For instance, the connecting members 74 may be attached to the frame 40 at a distance generally equal to or less than one-half the length of the side rails of the frame, such about forty percent (40%), about thirty percent (30%), about twenty percent (20%) or less. The connecting members 74 may also be attached to the frame 40 at a distance generally equal to or greater than one-half the length of the side rails of the frame, such as about sixty percent (60%), about seventy percent (70%), about eighty percent (80%) or more. For example, the connecting member 74 may be attached to one of the rail sections 46A, 46B, 48A, and 48B. In particular, one of the connecting members 74 may be attached to the first rail section 46A of the first side rail 42A, another of the connecting members 74 may be attached to the second rail section 46B of the first side rail 42A, to the first rail section 48A of the second side rail 42B, and to the second rail section 48B of the second side rail 42B. The connecting members 74 may include a hollow cylinder or tube. An internal diameter of the connecting member 74 may be greater than an outer diameter of the first and second support members 64 and 66.
An adjusting mechanism 76 may be connected to the second end 70 of the first and second support members 64 and 66. An example of the adjustment mechanism 76 may include a nut that is threadably connected to the second end 70. The adjusting mechanism 76 may be used to adjust a length of the first and second support members 64 and 66. A diameter of the adjusting mechanism 76 may be greater than the inner diameter of the connecting member 74.
The second end 70 of the first and second support members 64 and 66 may be slidably connected to the connecting member 74. In particular, the first and second support members 64 and 66 may be slidably disposed within the connecting member 74. The connecting member 74 may allow a portion of the first and second support members 64 and 66 near the second end 70 to slide relative to the connecting member 74. For instance, the first and second support members 64 and 66 may move relative to the connecting member 74 in substantially the x-direction of
When the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position as shown in
When the tabletop 12 is in the transitional position between the folded and the unfolded position as shown in
With reference to
As shown in the accompanying figures, the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B may be disposed in an offset configuration. The offset configuration refers to distances 88 and 90 of the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B from the second side 24. For example, the first rail section 48A may be disposed a first distance 88 from the second side 24 of the tabletop 12. The second rail section 48B may be disposed a second distance 90 from the second side 24 and thus displaced in the z-direction from the first rail section 48A. The offset configuration may enable the first truss support structure 54 to be disposed between the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B.
In addition, each of the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B may include an outer surface 92 and an inner surface 94. The inner surface 94 may contact and may be attached to the lower surface 16 of the tabletop 12. For instance, the first rail section 48A may attach to the first tabletop section 32A at the inner surface 94 and the second rail section 48B may attach to the second tabletop section 32B at the inner surface 94. When the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position, the outer surface 92 may face away from the lower surface 16 of the tabletop 12. As shown in
Additionally, the supports 30B and 30D may be displaced in the z-direction from one another and from the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B. In the folded position each of the supports 30B and 30D and the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B may contact the lower surface 16.
In addition, the connecting member 74 attached to the first rail section 48A may be displaced in an x-direction from the connecting member 74 attached to the second rail section 48B. Accordingly, in the folded position, the connecting member 74 attached to the first rail section 48A may both fit in the distance between the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B.
The table 10 of
As best depicted in
Referring back to
The table 10 may include the support structures 28. The support structures 28 are sized and configured to support the tabletop 12 above a surface (not shown). For example, the table 10 may include the first support structure 28A and the second support structure 28B. The support structures 28 may include the supports 30.
With reference to
Referring back to
When the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position of
Between the folded position and the unfolded positions, the table 10 may be in a transitional position, which is depicted in
The first and second tabletop sections 32A and 32B may have a generally rectangular configuration with a symmetrical or mirror-image configuration. In the unfolded position, the first and second tabletop sections 32A and 32B may meet at the interface 78 (
Referring to
In greater detail, the first side rail 42A may be disposed towards the first side 22 of the tabletop 12. The first side rail 42A may include the first rail section 46A connected to the first tabletop section 32A of the tabletop 12 and the second rail section 46B connected to the second tabletop section 32B of the tabletop 12. The first and second rail sections 46A and 46B of the first side rail 42A may be offset or spaced apart. For example, the first rail section 46A may be offset from the second rail section 46B in the z-direction in the arbitrarily defined coordinate system of
The second side rail 42B may be disposed towards the second side 24 of the tabletop 12. The second side rail 42B may include the first rail section 48A connected to the first tabletop section 32A of the tabletop 12 and the second rail section 48B connected to the second tabletop section 32B of the tabletop 12. The first and second rail sections 48A and 48B of the second side rail 42B may be offset or spaced apart. For example, the first rail section 48A may be offset from the second rail section 48B in the z-direction.
The support structures 28 may be connected to the frame 40. For example, the first cross member 50A may connect the frame 40 and the first support structure 28A and the second cross member 50B may connect the frame 40 and the second support structure 28B.
Ends of the first and second cross members 50A and 50B may be disposed in openings in the side rails 42 of the frame 40 to allow the first and second cross members 50A and 50B to rotate relative to the frame 40. The first and second cross members 50A and 50B may form part of the frame 40 and/or the support structures 28, depending, for example, upon the particular arrangement and/or configuration of the table 10. For example, referring to
Referring back to
The center cross member 52 may be aligned with the axis 34 about which the tabletop 12 rotates to transition between the folded and the unfolded positions. The axis 34 may be located between an inner surface of the side rails 42 that contacts the lower surface 16 and an outer surface of the side rails 42 that face away from the lower surface 16.
The center cross member 52 may be disposed in a fixed position relative to the tabletop 12 or it may pivot or rotate relative to the tabletop 12. For example, with reference to
The first rail section 46A of the first side rail 42A may define at least a portion of an opening at the interface end 3. The second rail section 46B of the first side rail 42A may define at least a portion of an opening at the interface end 5. The first rail section 48A of the second side rail 42B may define at least a portion of an opening at the interface end 7. The second rail section 48B of the second side rail 42B may define at least a portion of an opening at the interface end 9. The center cross member 52 may be at least partially disposed in the openings. Alternatively, the center cross member 52 may also be disposed in one or more receiving portions 38 in some embodiments.
The table 10 of
In addition with reference to
The second truss support structure 15 may include a three member assembly. When the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position, the three members of the first truss support structure 15 may form at least a portion of make two triangular units that act as trusses to support the table 10. In particular, the second truss support structure 15 may be configured to provide support to the interface 78 where the first tabletop section 32A meets the second tabletop section 32B.
For example, with reference to
The second truss support structure 15 may transfer at least a portion of the load 60 to the frame 40. For example, a portion of the load 60 may be reoriented into inward resultant forces 75 and 77 in the negative x direction and x direction, respectively. The inward resultant forces 75 and 77 may press the first tabletop section 32A against the second tabletop section 32B. Accordingly, the second truss support structure 15 may help counter the moment and prevent or reduce rotation about the z-axis. Additionally, the second truss support structure 15 may help counter the displacement. Thus, the second truss support structure 15 may enable larger loads to be placed on the tabletop 12 relative to the tables that do not include the second truss support structure 15.
As discussed above, the second truss support structure 15 may be configured to transfer a load applied to an upper surface of the tabletop 12 to inward resultant forces that press the first tabletop section 32A against the second tabletop section 32B. The second truss support structure 15 may be connected to the frame 40. For example, the second truss support structure 15 may be connected to the first rail section 46A or 48A and the second rail section 46B or 48B of the one of the side rails 42A or 42B. The second truss support structure 15 may extend across the interface 78 between the first tabletop section 32A and the second tabletop section 32B when the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position as shown in
The second truss support structure 15 may be at least partially disposed between the first rail section 46A or 48A and the second rail section 46B or 48B and may maintain this disposition throughout the folded position, the transitional position, and unfolded position. The second truss support structure 15 may be disposed between the first rail section 46A or 48A and the second rail section 46B or 48B in the unfolded position as shown in
The second truss support structure 15 may include a center support member 61, a first support member 63, and a second support member 65. The center support member 61 of the second truss support structure 15 may be connected to the center cross member 52 of the tabletop 12. The center support member 61 of the first truss support structure 54 may be pivotally connected to the center cross member 52 or may be fixed to the center cross member 52.
The center support member 61 may be a generally flat, rounded rectangular structure. The center support member 61 may include a width in the x-direction that may be equal to or less than a height in the y-direction of the first rail section 48A and/or the second rail section 48B.
With reference to
In the embodiment depicted in
With reference to
The first and second support members 63 and 65 include a first link 17 translationally coupled to a second link 19. Movement of the first link 17 relative to the second link 19 may adjust lengths of the first and second support members 63 and 65. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the first link 17 may include a pin 25 and the second link 19 may define a slot 27. The pin 25 may be disposed in the slot 27. Movement of the first link 17 relative to the second link 19 may translate the pin 25 in the slot 27 and adjust the length of the first and second support members 63 and 65.
Although
With reference to
When the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position as shown in
When the tabletop 12 is in the transitional position between the folded and the unfolded position as shown in
With reference to
As described above, the first link 17 may include the pin 25 and the second link 19 may define the slot 17. The pin 25 is an example of an engaging portion that the first link 17 may include. The slot 17 is an example of a receiving portion that the second link 19 may include. One skilled in the art will appreciate the first link 17 may include one or more other engaging portions and the second link 19 may include one or more other receiving portions. The other engaging portions and the other receiving portions may function substantially similarly to the pin 25 and the slot 27.
The first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B may be disposed in an offset configuration. The offset configuration refers to distances 88 and 90 of the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B from the second side 24. For example, the first rail section 48A may be disposed a first distance 88 from the second side 24 of the tabletop 12. The second rail section 48B may be disposed a second distance 90 from the second side 24 and thus displaced in the z-direction from the first rail section 48A. The offset configuration enables the second truss support structure 15 to be disposed between the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B.
In addition, each of the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B may include an outer surface 92 and an inner surface 94. The inner surface 94 may contact and may be attached to the lower surface 16 of the tabletop 12. For instance, the first rail section 48A may attach to the first tabletop section 32A at the inner surface 94 and the second rail section 48B may attach to the second tabletop section 32B at the inner surface 94. When the tabletop 12 is in the unfolded position, the outer surface 92 may face away from the lower surface 16 of the tabletop 12. As shown in
Additionally, the supports 30B and 30D may be displaced in the z-direction from one another and from the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B. In the folded position each of the supports 30B and 30D and the first rail section 48A and the second rail section 48B may contact the lower surface 16.
Although this invention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of this invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claims which follow.
This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/133,825, filed on Mar. 16, 2015, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62133825 | Mar 2015 | US |
