Folding table

Abstract

A folding table includes a pair of opposed semi-oval tabletops, a foldable linkage, and a storage position lock. The foldable linkages fold the tabletops about an axis from a use position to a storage position or a shipping position. In the storage position an automatically engaging lock assembly prevents the foldable table from unexpectedly moving to the shipping position or the use position.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to folding tables, and more particularly to folding tables having advantageous tabletop shapes and / or having lock assemblies that secure the folding tables in a storage position. [0003] 2. Prior Art [0004] In large multi-purpose rooms that are utilized at various times as dining rooms, meeting halls, dance areas and the like, it is often desirable that multi-purpose furniture be used. This furniture normally includes, for example, tables, chairs, benches, and stools. Such furniture provides added utility if it is of the folding type, so as to require minimum storage space. Folding tables having accompanying stools or benches are well known to provide seating and table space while requiring a relatively small amount of storage space. Such folding tables generally fold along a centerline, and have benches or stools placed along both sides of the table. Examples of folding tables are shown...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] The foldable table has three noteworthy positions including a use position, a transport / storage position, generally referred to as a storage position, and a shipping position. The use position, or “first position,” is the position in which the tabletop sections and stools are in a plane substantially parallel with the ground. The storage position, also known as the “second position” or “folded position,” represents an orientation wherein the bottom surfaces of the tabletop sections are substantially facing one another, but are not parallel to each other. Rather, in the storage position, the tabletop sections form an acute angle with respect to each other. The preferred angle represents a balance between space saving and stability (if the angle is too small, the folding table become increasingly susceptible of being tipped over). The shipping position, or “third position” is the most compact of the three positions. In the shipping position, the bottom surfaces of the tabletop sections face each other and are substantially parallel. This is the preferred position for shipping since saving space is essential, while having the ability to stand without support is generally not important during shipping.

[0009] Another feature of the lock assembly is that it does not make shipping the folding table more difficult. Although, when operational, the lock assembly does prevent the table from inadvertently being placed in the shipping position, the lock assembly can be temporally disengaged only for shipping purposes. Depressing a spring-loaded detent, also referred to as a “spring lock,” that is provided as part of the lock assembly, allows the tabletops to be folded to the shipping position. However, the location of the detent is not prominent, so that the detent is not inadvertently disengaged.

Problems solved by technology

More specifically, once the folding table reaches the storage position, the lock assembly engages to prevent the folding table from over-folding and thereby becoming vertically unstable.

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