Table with multiple configurations

Abstract

A table includes a plurality of surface sections joined to a base. At least one of the surface sections is joined to the base with an attachment device having a slidable portion and a rotatable portion. A mounted end of the slidable portion is secured to the base and the opposite end of the slidable portion is slidably coupled to a rotatable joint, which is mounted to one of the surface sections. The rotatable joint is configured to rotate relative to the base, so that the surface section can be translated and rotated relative to the base to enable the table to readily be changed into four different configurations. Utility trays mounted under the surface sections provide access to power and data leads feeding from the base. A pleated accordion fold cover hides the attachment device and leads when a gap is formed between the surface sections.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention generally pertains to conference tables, and more specifically, to conference tables that are selectively configurable in a plurality of different configurations. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Most office suites include one or more conference rooms. These conference rooms may be used for any number of functions, but are typically used for meetings in which participants are seated around a table to discuss matters of interest to the participants. While a single conference table with seating on both sides can server this function, there are times when it is desirable to provide two sets of tables that are spaced apart from each other longitudinally. For example, it might be desirable to seat opposing parties along opposite sides of spaced-apart tables during negotiations. Still further, conference rooms might host presentations where a presenter, standing at one end of the table and using one or more visual aids, such as a video...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] Accordingly, one of the advantages of the present invention is that it provides a table that can readily be configured to suit a number of different uses or functions. As a result, a space such as a conference room that is equipped with such a table can be efficiently used for different purposes without having to exchange or move furniture around the room. For example, if a pair of separate but facing tables are needed, sections of the table, which are rotatably supported by a base, can be moved apart

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, conference room table 110a and chairs 120a-136a are less well-suited to other purposes.

This prior art solution to the problem of achieving multiple configurations to address different functions and needs for conference tables unfortunately also has drawbacks.

Unfortunately, arranging furniture as shown in FIG. 1C again may involve nontrivial labor in moving conference tables 112b and 114b.

Unfortunately, because one of the objects of using two separate tables 112b and 114b is to permit the reconfiguration of the conference tables to be readily carried

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