Locking mechanism of folding table

Abstract

The foldable table may include a tabletop and legs that are movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The tabletop may include a first portion and a second portion connected by a hinge assembly. The size and configuration of the locking mechanism may be designed to lock the hinge assembly in a fixed position. The locking mechanism may include a locking member, and the locking member may be a single one-piece structure. The locking member may be rotatably connected to a connector of the hinge assembly. The locking member may be connected to a locking structure that is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The size and configuration of the locking member may be designed to bias the locking structure into a locked position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to furniture, and in particular to tables that can be folded and unfolded.

[0002] Description of Related Technology

[0003] Many types of tables are well known and used for a variety of different purposes. For example, a conventional table may include legs that are pivotally attached to a tabletop, and the legs may be moved between a use position in which the legs extend outward from the tabletop and a storage position in which the legs are folded against the lower portion of the tabletop. Conventional tables with larger tabletops and folding legs are often referred to as "banquet tables" or "utility tables," and such tables are often used in auditoriums, banquet halls, conference centers, hotels, schools, churches, and other places where large groups of people gather. When the table is no longer needed, the table legs may be moved into the storage position and the table may be moved or stored.

[0004] Traditional banquet tables have large tabletops. For example, many known banquet tables have a length between six and ten feet and a width between three and four feet. Therefore, even when the legs are in the storage position, many traditional banquet tables require a large storage area. For larger facilities, such as hotels, schools and churches, such large storage areas may be particularly problematic because a considerable number of tables may have to be stored. Therefore, a large amount of storage space may be required. In addition, smaller facilities, such as restaurants, offices and homes, may use one or more traditional banquet tables. These smaller facilities may use the tables less frequently, such as during special occasions and events. Traditional banquet tables, even when the legs are folded up, are usually too heavy and awkward to be conveniently stored in such a small facility. Therefore, both large and small facilities usually need to rent and / or borrow banquet tables when needed. Disadvantageously, renting and / or borrowing banquet tables may be inconvenient, time-consuming and expensive. In addition, renting and / or borrowing banquet tables may be difficult because the tables may need to be transported.

[0005] Traditional banquet tables are often difficult to move or transport from one location to another due to the large size of the table. For example, due to the length of the table, it may be problematic for one person to move a traditional banquet table. In addition, the length may prevent a traditional banquet table from being transported in the trunk or back seat of a typical passenger car. Therefore, a traditional banquet table may have to be transported by a truck, trailer, or oversized vehicle (such as a sports utility vehicle). These and other factors may make it time-consuming and expensive to move a traditional banquet table.

[0006] Tables that are configured to fold in half are also known. Specifically, many conventional fold-in-half tables include a tabletop having two sections that are pivotally connected by a hinge. The sections of the tabletop are typically the same size and shape, and the hinge is typically located in the center of the tabletop. The sections of the tabletop can be moved between an extended or use position, in which the sections of the tabletop are aligned generally in the same plane, and a folded or collapsed position, in which the sections are positioned generally adjacent to each other for storage.

[0007] Disadvantageously, many conventional folding tables in half are unable to support considerable weight. For example, many known folding tables in half have relatively weak connections between the portions of the tabletop, which may cause a portion of the tabletop to sag or collapse unexpectedly. Additionally, the connections between the portions may be relatively fragile and may break if a significant load or force is applied to the tabletop. In order to construct a sturdier table, it is known to manufacture the portions of the tabletop from sturdier and thicker materials. This may increase the weight of the tabletop, making the table more difficult to manufacture, transport, carry, and move.

[0008] Another disadvantage of many conventional folding tables in half is that the table may be relatively difficult and time-consuming to use. For example, multiple steps may be required to set up and disassemble a conventional folding table in half. For example, a known folding table in half may have to be unfolded, a first leg assembly moved from a storage position to a use position, a first cross brace moved into an extended position, a second leg assembly moved from a storage position to a use position, a second cross brace moved into an extended position, a first locking ring moved into a locked position to fix the first leg assembly in the locked position, a second locking ring moved into a locked position to fix the second leg assembly in the locked position, and then a sliding bolt may be used to lock the tabletop in the use or unfolded position. Therefore, many steps may be required before the table can be used. In addition, folding or storing the table may require many of the same steps. For example, the sliding bolt may have to be manually unlocked and the locking ring moved from the locked position to the unlocked position. The first cross brace and the second cross brace may have to be moved from the extended position to an angled position. Then, the first leg assembly and the second leg assembly may be moved from the use position to the storage position, and then the tabletop may be folded into a retracted position. Therefore, multiple steps may be required each time the table needs to be used, moved and / or stored. Summary of the invention

[0009] Therefore need a kind of table that can eliminate or reduce the above-mentioned shortcomings and problems.

[0010] In one aspect is a table that may include a tabletop and one or more support structures or legs. The support structure may be movable relative to the tabletop between an extended position or use position and a retracted or storage position. When the support structure is in the use position, the support structure may extend outward and away from the tabletop. When the support structure is in the retracted position, the support structure may be disposed generally parallel to and at least proximate to a lower portion of the tabletop. When the support structure is in the retracted position, a portion of the support structure may contact or abut a lower portion of the tabletop. Advantageously, when the support structure is in the use position, the table may support a variety of objects and the table may be used for different purposes. When the support structure is in the retracted position, the table may be more easily moved, stored and / or transported.

[0011] On the other hand, a table can be a folding table or a half-folding table, and the table can include a tabletop that can be folded and unfolded. For example, the tabletop can include two parts, and when the tabletop is in the unfolded or use position, the two parts are generally aligned in the same plane. When the tabletop is in the folded position, the parts of the tabletop can be arranged in a generally parallel and / or adjacent configuration. The table can also include a support structure that is movable between the use position and the retracted position. Advantageously, if the table includes both a foldable tabletop and a movable support structure, the table can be arranged and / or stored in a relatively compact area. The small size of the folding table can allow, for example, one person to easily move and transport the table. In addition, the small size of the folding table can allow the table to be placed in a relatively small area, such as the back seat or trunk of a car. The small size of the folding table can also reduce transportation and storage costs.

[0012] Yet another aspect is a table that may include a tabletop constructed of plastic, and the plastic tabletop may be constructed using a blow molding process. Advantageously, the blow-molded plastic tabletop may be lightweight, easily constructed, and / or formed into a desired size, shape, configuration, and / or design. The blow-molded plastic tabletop may also generally be weather-resistant and temperature-insensitive, which may allow the table to be used in a variety of locations and environments. In addition, the blow-molded plastic tabletop is durable, long-lasting, and corrosion-resistant. In addition, the blow-molded plastic tabletop may be relatively sturdy and capable of supporting a large amount of weight. The blow-molded plastic tabletop may form a structural member of the table, and the blow-molded plastic tabletop may include one or more features that are integrally formed as part of a single, one-piece construction.

[0013] Advantageously, the blow molded plastic desktop can be relatively strong because it can include opposing walls, and the opposing walls can be separated by a certain distance. For example, the opposing walls can be separated by a substantially constant distance. The desktop can also include one or more features, and the various features can be set in a substantially consistent configuration and / or arrangement. The generally non-firm configuration and / or arrangement of the features can help create a desktop with substantially consistent properties (such as strength, rigidity, and structural integrity). For example, the desktop can include a plurality of depressions, and the depressions can have a substantially consistent configuration and / or the depressions can be arranged in a substantially consistent pattern. In addition, because the blow molded plastic desktop can include a hollow internal section, the blow molded plastic desktop can be lightweight. Therefore, the blow molded plastic desktop can be lightweight, strong and strong. The desktop can also be formed by other suitable processes, such as injection molding, rotational molding, extrusion molding, vacuum forming, thermoforming, etc. The desktop can be constructed using other suitable materials, such as metals (including steel, aluminum, etc.), polymers, composite materials, natural materials, etc.

[0014] Yet another aspect is a table that may include a frame attached to a tabletop. The size and configuration of the frame may be designed to allow the tabletop to move between a folded position and an expanded position. For example, the frame may include one or more elongated members, such as tracks and / or side rails, and the side rails may extend along the length of the tabletop. The side rails may be disposed toward the side of the tabletop or may be located at least proximate to the side of the tabletop. The side rails may be connected to a first portion and a second portion of the tabletop, and the side rails may be pivotally connected by one or more hinge assemblies. For example, a first section of the side rail may be connected to a first portion of the tabletop, and a second section of the side rail may be connected to a second portion of the tabletop. A hinge assembly may connect the first section and the second section of the side rail. Depending on the size and configuration of the tabletop, any suitable number of side rails and / or elongated members may be used. In addition, the frame, elongated members, side rails, and / or hinge assemblies may have various shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements, depending, for example, on the intended use of the table.

[0015] Another aspect is a table that can include a locking mechanism, and the locking mechanism can be locked and / or unlocked. For example, the locking mechanism can fix a portion of the table in a fixed position. In an exemplary embodiment, the locking mechanism can lock the desktop in a use position. When the locking mechanism is unlocked, the locking mechanism can allow the desktop to be set in a retracted position or a storage position. The locking mechanism can include a locking member and a locking structure, such as a locking pin. The locking member can bias the locking structure into a locked position. The locking member can include a release or a control member, and the release member can unlock the locking mechanism. For example, when a force is applied to the release member, such as a user pressing the release member, a first section of the locking member can rotate and a second section of the locking member can move the locking structure from the locked position to the unlocked position. Advantageously, the locking mechanism can simply and quickly lock the desktop in a fixed position. In addition, the locking mechanism can be easily and effectively unlocked. In addition, the locking mechanism can be biased into a locked position, which can automatically lock the desktop into a desired configuration.

[0016] On the other hand, a folding table may include a locking mechanism, and the locking mechanism may include a locking member and a locking structure, such as a locking pin. The locking member can move the locking structure between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking structure can fix the desktop in a fixed position. In the unlocked position, the locking structure can allow the desktop to move between a folded position and an unfolded position. The locking member can be a single one-piece structure, and the size and configuration of the locking member can be designed to bias the locking structure into the locked position. The locking member may include a release that facilitates locking and / or unlocking of the locking mechanism. For example, the release can move the locking structure from the locked position to the unlocked position, which can allow the folding table.

[0017] Yet another aspect is a table that can be quickly and easily manufactured. For example, the table can include relatively few parts and the parts can be quickly and easily produced. Additionally, a relatively simple design can facilitate manufacture of the table. The table can also have increased reliability because it can have few moving parts. Advantageously, reducing the number of parts can allow the table to be assembled more quickly and can increase reliability.

[0018] Another aspect is a locking mechanism for a folding table, which may include a tabletop and at least one support structure, the size and configuration of the support structure being designed to support the tabletop above the surface. The support structure may be movable between a use position and a retracted position. The size and configuration of the locking mechanism may be designed to lock the tabletop in a fixed position. The folding table may include a hinge assembly having a first bracket and a second bracket. The first bracket may include a cam surface and an engagement section. The second bracket may include an elongated opening. A connector, such as a pin, a rivet, a cross member, etc., may rotatably connect the first bracket and the second bracket. The locking member may include a first section and a second section. The connecting section may connect the first section and the second section. The first section, the second section, and the connecting section are part of a single one-piece structure. The first section of the locking member may be connected to the connector of the hinge assembly. The locking structure may be disposed in the elongated opening in the second bracket of the hinge assembly, and the locking structure may be connected to the second section of the locking member. The locking structure may be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, and the size and configuration of the locking member may be designed to bias the locking structure into the locked position.

[0019] In another aspect, a folding table may include a hinge assembly including a first bracket having one or more flanges; a second bracket having one or more flanges; a cam surface may be formed by a portion of the one or more flanges of the first bracket; and an engagement surface may be formed by a portion of the one or more flanges of the first bracket. The locking mechanism may include a locking member having an engagement surface, and a user may apply a force to the engagement surface to unlock the locking mechanism. The engagement surface of the locking member may extend outward from a first section of the locking member, and the locking member may rotate about a connector when a force is applied to the engagement surface. The force applied to the engagement surface may rotate the locking member relative to the connector, and the rotation of the locking member relative to the connector may move the locking structure from a locked position to an unlocked position. The locking member may bias the locking structure into the locked position. The connecting section of the locking member may include an angled section that is elastically deformable to allow the locking structure to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. The connecting section of the locking member may have a generally U-shaped configuration that is elastically deformable to allow the locking structure to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. The connecting section of the locking member may have a generally U-shaped configuration that is elastically deformable to allow the locking structure to move between a locked position and an unlocked position, the connecting section may bias the locking structure toward a first section of the locking member, and rotation of the first section of the locking member may cause the locking structure to move between the locked position and the unlocked position. The locking member may be rotatably connected to the connector. The first section of the locking member may be rotatably connected to the connector, and the second section of the locking member may be rotatably connected to the locking structure. The hinge assembly may pivotally connect the first and second parts of the desktop, the locking structure may engage the engagement surface in the locked position to prevent the hinge assembly from rotating, and the locking structure may disengage from the engagement surface in the unlocked position to allow the hinge assembly to rotate. A release may extend outwardly from the first section of the locking member, a force applied to the release may rotate the first section of the locking member, and rotation of the first section of the locking member may cause the second section of the locking member to move the locking structure from the locked position to the unlocked position. The release member may extend outwardly from the locking member, the locking member may be substantially disposed between one or more flanges of the first bracket and one or more flanges of the second bracket, and the release member may extend beyond the outer surfaces of the one or more flanges of the first bracket and the one or more flanges of the second bracket.

[0020] Yet another aspect is a locking mechanism for a folding table in half. The folding table in half may include a tabletop, a frame, at least one support structure sized and configured to support the tabletop above a surface, and the support structure may be movable between a use position and a collapsed position. The folding table in half may include a hinge assembly, and the hinge assembly may include a first bracket connected to a first section of the tabletop, the first bracket may include an engagement surface and a cam surface, a second bracket may be connected to a second section of the tabletop, the second bracket may include a slot, and a connector rotatably connects the first bracket and the second bracket. The locking structure may be disposed in the slot, and the locking structure may be movable between a locked position in which the locking structure engages the engagement surface and an unlocked position in which the locking structure is spaced apart from the engagement surface. The locking member may include a first section rotatably connected to the connector and a second section connected to the locking structure. Rotation of the first section of the locking member around the connector may cause the second section of the locking member to move the locking structure between the locked position and the unlocked position. The locking member may bias the locking structure into the locked position. The release member may extend from the first section of the locking member, and the size and configuration of the release member may be designed to rotate the first section of the locking member about the connector when a user applies a force to the release member. The locking member may be biased to move the locking structure from the unlocked position to the locked position, and when the half-folding table top is disposed in the unfolded position, the locking member may automatically lock the locking mechanism in the locked position. The locking member may include a connecting section connecting the first section and the second section of the locking member, the connecting section may be elastically deformable to allow the locking structure to move between the locked position and the unlocked position, and the locking member may bias the locking structure into the locked position.

[0021] Another aspect is a table that may include a tabletop having a first section and a second section, and a hinge assembly pivotably connecting the first section and the second section of the tabletop. The hinge assembly may include a first bracket having a cam surface and an engagement section, a second bracket having an elongated opening, and a connector rotatably connecting the first bracket and the second bracket. One or more support structures may be connected to the tabletop, and the size and configuration of the support structure are designed to support the tabletop above the surface. The size and configuration of the locking mechanism may be designed to lock the tabletop in a fixed position. The locking mechanism may include a locking member having a first section, a second section, and a connecting section connecting the first section and the second section. The first section, the second section, and the connecting section may form part of a single one-piece structure. The first section of the locking member may be rotatably connected to the connector of the hinge assembly. The locking structure may be disposed in the elongated opening in the second bracket of the hinge assembly, the locking structure may be connected to the second section of the locking member, the locking structure may be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, and the size and configuration of the locking member are designed to bias the locking structure into the locked position.

[0022] 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 accompanying drawings, the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, and the appended claims.

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The accompanying drawings contain diagrams of preferred embodiments to further illustrate and clarify the above and other aspects, advantages and features of the present invention. It should be understood that these drawings depict only preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope thereof. The present invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 is an upper perspective view of an exemplary table showing an exemplary support structure in an extended or use position;

[0026] Figure 2 is a lower perspective view of an exemplary table showing an exemplary support structure in an extended or use position.

[0027] Figure 3 is another lower perspective view of an exemplary table showing the exemplary support structure in a collapsed or stored position;

[0028] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary table showing the table in a folded or stored position;

[0029] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary frame for a table showing an exemplary support structure in an extended or use position;

[0030] Fig. 6A is a perspective view of an example frame and an example locking mechanism showing an example support structure in a collapsed or stored position;

[0031] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the illustrated example frame and example locking mechanism showing the example locking mechanism in a locked position;

[0032] Figure 6C yes Figure 6B another perspective view of a portion of the illustrated example frame and example locking mechanism showing the example locking mechanism in an unlocked position;

[0033] Fig. 7A is a partially cutaway perspective view of a portion of an exemplary frame and an exemplary locking mechanism, showing the locking mechanism in an exemplary locked position;

[0034] Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A Another partially cutaway perspective view of a portion of the exemplary frame and exemplary locking mechanism shown in , showing the locking mechanism in an exemplary unlocked position;

[0035] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary frame showing the frame in an exemplary retracted or folded position;

[0036] Fig.9A is a perspective view of an exemplary locking member;

[0037] Fig. 9B yes Fig.9A A front view of an exemplary locking member is shown;

[0038] Fig. 10A is a perspective view of a portion of an exemplary hinge assembly;

[0039] Fig. 10B yes Fig. 10A A front view of a portion of an exemplary hinge assembly shown in;

[0040] Fig.11A is a perspective view of a portion of an exemplary hinge assembly; and

[0041] Fig. 11B yes Fig.11A A front view of a portion of an exemplary hinge assembly is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present invention generally relates to locking mechanisms for furniture, such as locking mechanisms for folding or folding-in-half tables. However, the principles of the present invention are not limited to locking mechanisms for furniture or locking mechanisms for folding tables. It should be understood that the locking mechanisms may be successfully used in conjunction with other types of structures, devices, etc., in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0043] In addition, to help describe the locking mechanism and folding table, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, right and left can be used to describe the drawings. It should be understood that the locking mechanism and folding table can be set in other positions and / or arrangements, used in a variety of situations, and can perform different functions. In addition, the drawings can be drawn to scale, and the drawings can show various shapes, sizes, configurations, arrangements, aspects and features of the locking mechanism, folding table, etc. It should be understood that the locking mechanism, folding table and various components can have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements, depending on, for example, the intended use of the table. In addition, the locking mechanism and folding table may include any suitable number of components, aspects, features, etc. or combinations thereof. Although the locking mechanism and folding table may include various components, aspects, features, etc., various components, aspects, features, etc. may not be necessary. Exemplary embodiments of the locking mechanism and folding table are now described in detail as follows.

[0044] As shown, an exemplary table 10 may include a tabletop 12 having an upper portion or upper surface 14, a lower portion or lower surface 16, a first side 18, a second side 20, a first end 22, and a second end 24. The upper portion 14 of the tabletop 12 may have a generally flat configuration, and the upper portion of the tabletop may form a work surface. The upper portion 14 of the tabletop 12 may be textured, and the tabletop may include an outer perimeter or edge 26. The tabletop 12 may include a lip 28, and the lip may be disposed around the perimeter or perimeter 26 of the tabletop. As shown in the figures, the lip 28 may have different heights, and the lip may extend around the entire perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12. The lip 28 may have different heights, for example, to allow a handle to be attached to the table 10. The size and configuration of the lip 28 may also be designed to facilitate folding and / or unfolding the table 10. Additionally, the size and configuration of the lip 28 can be designed to form a table 10 having a pleasing aesthetic, and the size and configuration of the lip can be designed to cover, conceal and / or protect certain portions of the table 10, such as the frame and / or support structure. Furthermore, the table top 12 can include other features and aspects, such as grooves, recesses, and receiving sections, and the edges of the table top 12 can be beveled, angled, and / or rounded.

[0045] The lip 28 may extend downward relative to the upper portion 14 and / or the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12. The lip 28 may also be disposed near or at least proximate to the perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12. For example, the lip 28 may extend downward relative to the upper portion 14 and the lower portion 16 of the tabletop 12, and the lip 28 may be aligned with and / or form at least a portion of the perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12. It should be understood that all or a portion of the lip 28 may be spaced inwardly from the perimeter 26 of the tabletop 12, and the lip 28 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements. Although the exemplary table 10 and the exemplary tabletop 12 shown in the drawings include the lip 28, it should be understood that the lip 28 and other features and aspects of the table 10 may not be required or necessary. It should also be understood that the table 10 and its various components may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements, depending, for example, on the intended use of the table 10. It should also be understood that table 10 includes all suitable numbers of features, aspects, etc., such as disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,530,331; 7,111,563; 7,475,643; 7,814,844; and 7,975,625; the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0046] As shown in the accompanying drawings, the desktop 12 may have a generally rectangular configuration with rounded corners. The desktop 12 may have a relatively large size, and the table 10 may be configured to be used as a banquet table or a utility table. For example, the desktop 12 may have a length between about four feet and about ten feet, such as a length of about five feet, about six feet, about eight feet, etc. The desktop 12 may have a width between about two feet and about three feet, such as about two and a half feet. It should be understood that the desktop 12 may be larger or smaller, and it should be understood that the desktop 12 may have other suitable shapes and configurations, such as square, round, oval, etc.; the sides, corners, edges and other parts of the desktop 12 may have various shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements, depending on, for example, the intended use of the table 10. In addition, the table 10 may be any suitable type of table, such as a folding table, a non-folding table, a card table, a personal table, a round table, a conference table, etc. The table 10 may also be used for various purposes, such as a desk, a support structure, a display, etc.

[0047] The desktop 12 can be made of a lightweight material such as plastic. Specifically, the desktop 12 can be constructed of materials such as high-density polyethylene, but other suitable plastics and material types can also be used. The desktop 12 can be formed using a blow molding process, and blow molding can allow the formation of a relatively strong, lightweight, rigid and / or strong desktop 12. The desktop 12 can be made of blow-molded plastic quite quickly and inexpensively. The blow-molded plastic desktop 12 can be relatively durable, weather-resistant, temperature-insensitive, corrosion-resistant, rust-proof, and will not deteriorate over time. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the desktop 12 does not have to be constructed of blow-molded plastic, and other suitable materials and / or processes can be used to construct the desktop 12. For example, the desktop 12 can be constructed of other types of plastics, polymers, synthetic materials, natural materials, etc. The desktop 12 can also be formed by processes such as injection molding, rotational molding, and rotary molding. In addition, the desktop 12 can be constructed of other materials (such as wood, metal, alloy, composite material, fiberglass, ceramic, etc.) with sufficient strength and desired properties.

[0048] The table top 12 may include spaced apart outer walls, such as an upper surface 14 and a lower surface 16, which may help to form a strong and rigid table top 12. For example, the upper surface 14 and the lower surface 16 of the table top 12 may be separated by a certain distance, and the distance may be a substantially constant distance. The upper surface 14 and the lower surface 16 of the table top 12 may be substantially aligned and / or disposed in substantially parallel planes. Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the table top 12 may include one or more depressions 30, which may also be referred to as tack-offs. The depressions 30 may be disposed in the lower surface 16 of the table top 12, and the size and configuration of the depressions 30 may be designed to increase the strength, structural integrity, and / or rigidity of the table top 12. The depressions 30 may also be used to form the table top 12 with more uniform properties and characteristics, and the depressions may cover most, substantially all, or the entire lower surface 16 of the table top 12. Advantageously, the depressions 30 may be integrally formed with the table top 12 as part of a single, one-piece construction, and the depressions 30 may be formed in any desired portion of the table top 12. The recess 30 and other portions of the table 10 may have other shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements, and may include other features, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,069,865, 7,114,453, 7,143,702 and 7,210,277, and U.S. Pat. No. 2006-0230989; the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0049] The table 10 may include one or more support structures that are sized and configured to support the tabletop 12 above a surface. For example, the table 10 may include a first support structure 32 and a second support structure 34, and each support structure may include one or more legs or supports 36. The legs 36 may be connected by one or more connecting members 38. The support structures 32, 34 may be movable between an extended position or use position, in which the legs 36 extend outward from the tabletop 12, and a retracted position or storage position, in which the legs 36 are disposed at least proximate to the tabletop 12. After reading this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the table 10 may include any suitable number, size, shape, configuration, and / or arrangement of support structures 32, 34; legs 36; and / or connecting members 38, depending on, for example, the intended use of the table 10.

[0050] The table 10 may be a folding table or a folding table in half, and the table top 12 may include a first portion 40 and a second portion 42. The first portion 40 and the second portion 42 of the table top 12 may be in a use configuration or an unfolded configuration (such as Figure 1-3 ) and a collapsed configuration or folded configuration (such as Figure 4 In addition, the first support structure 32 and the second support structure 34 can be moved between the use configuration and the collapsed configuration. For example, as shown in Figure 2 As shown, the table 10 can be in an expanded configuration or a use configuration, and the first support structure 32 can extend outwardly relative to the first portion 40 of the table top 12. In addition, the second support structure 34 can extend outwardly relative to the second portion 42 of the table top 12. Figure 3As shown, when the first support structure is in the collapsed position or the storage position, the first support structure 32 can be disposed generally parallel to and / or at least proximate to the lower portion 16 of the first portion 40 of the table top 12. Similarly, when the second support structure is in the collapsed or storage position, the second support structure 34 can be disposed generally parallel to and / or at least proximate to the lower portion 16 of the second portion 42 of the table top 12. In addition, the first portion 40 and the second portion 42 of the table top 12 can be moved between a collapsed position and an expanded position. When the table top 12 is in the expanded position, the first portion 40 and the second portion 42 can be generally aligned and / or disposed in a generally same plane, and when the table top 12 is in the collapsed position, the first portion 40 and the second portion 42 of the table top 12 can be disposed generally adjacent to each other and / or parallel to each other.

[0051] As shown in the figures, the first portion 40 and the second portion 42 of the table top 12 can have a generally rectangular configuration. The first portion 40 and the second portion 42 of the table top 12 can also have a generally symmetrical and / or mirrored configuration. In addition, the first portion 40 of the table top 12 can include an inner surface 44 that is sized and configured to contact and / or engage an inner surface 46 of the second portion 42 of the table top when the table 10 is in the unfolded position. When the table top 12 is in the folded position, the inner surfaces 44, 46 can be spaced apart. Figure 4 As shown, the inner surfaces 44, 46 of the table top 12 may include one or more interlocking, overlapping and / or connecting sections, such as the engaging section 48 and the receiving section 50, which may provide additional strength, stability and / or rigidity to at least the central section of the table top. The table top 12 may also have other shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements, such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,096,799, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0052] As shown in the figures, the table 10 may include a frame 52 and the frame may be connected to the table top 12. The exemplary frame 52 may include one or more elongated members, such as rails. For example, a first side rail 54 may be disposed at least adjacent to the first side 18 of the table top 12, and a second side rail 56 may be disposed at least adjacent to the second side 20 of the table top 12. The first side rail 54 may include a first section 58 connected to the first portion 40 of the table top 12 and a second section 60 connected to the second portion 42 of the table top. The second side rail 56 may include a first section 62 connected to the first portion 40 of the table top 12 and a second section 64 connected to the second portion 42 of the table top. The first side rail 54 and the second side rail 56 may be positioned along the first side 18 and the second side 20 of the table top 12 at least near the lip 28, and the first side rail 54 and the second side rail 56 may extend substantially the entire length of the first section 40 and the second section 42 of the table top 12. It should be understood that the frame 52 may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements, depending, for example, on the intended use of the table 10. For example, the frame 52 may include one or more features or aspects such as disclosed in US Pat. No. 8,555,789, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0053] The first side rail 54 and the second side rail 56 of the frame 52 can be pivotally connected. For example, the first hinge assembly 66 can be connected to the first section 58 and the second section 60 of the first side rail 54, and the second hinge assembly 68 can be connected to the first section 62 and the second section 64 of the second side rail 56. The first hinge assembly 66 and the second hinge assembly 68 can allow the table 10 to move between the folded position and the deployed position.

[0054] The first support structure 32 may be connected to the frame 52. For example, the first cross member 70 may connect the first support structure 32 and the frame 52, and the second cross member 72 may connect the second support structure 34 and the frame 62. Figure 5 and Fig. 6A As shown, the ends of the first cross member 70 and the second cross member 72 can be disposed in openings in the side rails 54, 56 of the frame 52, which can allow the cross members 70, 72 to rotate relative to the frame 52. If desired, the cross members 70, 72 can be part of the support structure 32, 34 and / or the frame 52. The support structure 32, 34 and / or the cross members 70, 72 can have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements, such as shown in U.S. Patent No. 7,100,518, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0055] The table 10 can include any suitable number of cross members, such as cross members 70, 72, and the cross members can be disposed at various locations on the table 10. For example, the cross members 70, 72 can be disposed toward the first end 22 and the second end 24 of the table top 12, and one or more cross members can be disposed between the cross members 70, 72. For example, the cross member 74 can be disposed between the cross members 70, 72, and the cross member 74 can be disposed at least near a central section of the table top 12. When the table 10 moves between the folded position and the deployed position, the cross member 74 can be aligned with the axis of rotation. The cross member 74 can be connected to the hinge assemblies 66, 68. For example, the cross member 74 can be rotationally coupled to one or both of the hinge assemblies 66, 68. The cross member 74 can also be connected to other suitable sections of the table 10. Table 10 may include one or more cross members and other features and aspects such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,397,653, 8,573,139, and 9,763,513, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. However, table 10 may not include cross members 70, 72, and / or 74.

[0056] like Figure 5 and 6A As shown, a first cross brace 76 may connect the cross member 74 and the first support structure 32, and a second cross brace 78 may connect the cross member 74 and the second support structure 34. The first cross brace 76 and the second cross brace 78 may include a pair of arms 80, and the arms may be pivotally connected to the legs 36. The cross braces 76, 78 may be rotationally or non-rotatably connected to the cross member 74. After reading this disclosure, it will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art that the cross braces 76, 78 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements. For example, the first cross brace 76 may connect the support structure 32 and the frame 52, and the second cross brace 78 may connect the support structure 34 and the frame 52. In an exemplary embodiment, the first cross brace 76 may connect the first support structure 32 and the first side rail 54 and / or the second side rail 56. For example, the first cross brace 76 may connect the first segment 58 of the first side rail 54 and / or the first segment 62 of the second side rail 56 and the first support structure 32. The second cross brace 78 can connect the second support structure 34 and the first side rail 54 and / or the second side rail 56. For example, the second cross brace 78 can connect the second segment 60 of the first side rail 54 and / or the second segment 64 of the second side rail 56 and the second support structure 34. After reading this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the cross members 70, 72, 74 and the cross braces 76, 78 can have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements depending on, for example, the intended use of the table 10.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, the cross member 74 may be connected to the hinge assemblies 66, 68, as shown in FIG. Figures 6A to 6C However, cross member 74 need not be connected to the hinge assembly, and table 10 may not include cross member 74.

[0058] like Figure 6B and 6C As shown, for example, the first hinge assembly 66 may include a first bracket 82, and the first bracket 82 may be connected to the first section 58 of the first side rail 54. The first hinge assembly 66 may also include a second bracket 84, and the second bracket 84 may be connected to the second section 60 of the first side rail 54. The first bracket 82 may include one or more flanges, such as a first pair of flanges 86, 88, and the second bracket 84 may include one or more flanges, such as a second pair of flanges 90, 92. The first bracket 82 and the second bracket 84 of the first hinge assembly 66 may be pivotally connected. For example, the first bracket 82 and the second bracket 84 of the first hinge assembly 66 may be pivotally connected by one or more connectors 94. The connector 94 may be a pin, a rivet, a connecting member, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector 94 may be a cross member 74. For example, one end of the cross member 74 may be inserted through one or more holes in the flanges 86, 88, 90 and / or 92. After reading this disclosure, it will be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art that the connector 94 may have different shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements, depending on, for example, the type of table 10.

[0059] The second hinge assembly 68 may have a similar size, shape, configuration, and / or arrangement as the first hinge assembly 66. For example, the second hinge assembly may include a first bracket 96 connected to the first segment 62 of the second side rail 56. The second hinge assembly 68 may also include a second bracket 98 connected to the second segment 64 of the second side rail 56. The first bracket 96 may include one or more flanges, such as a first pair of flanges 100, 102, and the second bracket 98 may include one or more flanges, such as a second pair of flanges 104, 106. The first bracket 96 and the second bracket 98 of the second hinge assembly 68 may be pivotally connected. For example, the first bracket 96 and the second bracket 98 of the second hinge assembly 68 may be pivotally connected by one or more connectors 108. The connector 108 may be a pin, a rivet, a connecting member, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the connector 108 may be a cross member 74. For example, one end of the cross member 74 may be inserted through one or more holes in the flanges 100, 102, 104, and / or 106. After reading this disclosure, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the hinge assemblies 66, 68 may have similar or different shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements. In addition, the table 10 may include any suitable number of hinge assemblies, and the hinge assemblies may be disposed in different locations and positions, depending on, for example, the size of the table 10.

[0060] The locking mechanism 110 can be used to lock the desktop 12 in a fixed position, such as an extended position or a use position. The locking mechanism 110 can also be used to lock the desktop 12 in other positions, such as an unlocked position. The locking mechanism 110 can be biased to one or more desired positions or configurations. For example, when the desktop 12 is set in an extended position or a use position, the locking mechanism 110 can be biased to lock the desktop 12 in a locked position. If necessary, the size and configuration of the locking mechanism 110 can be designed to automatically lock when the desktop 12 is in a desired position (such as an extended position or a use position). Force or other input may be required to unlock the locking mechanism 110. For example, when the desktop 12 is in an extended position or a use position and the locking member 110 is set in a locked position, force or input may be required to unlock the locking mechanism 110. When the locking mechanism 110 is unlocked, the desktop 12 can move between the use position and the retracted position. After reading this disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the size, shape, construction and / or arrangement of the locking mechanism 110 can be designed to lock the desktop 12 into any desired position, and when the locking member 110 is unlocked, the locking mechanism 110 can allow the desktop 12 to move freely between the use position and the retracted position.

[0061] The locking mechanism 110 can be disposed proximate to at least one of the hinge assemblies, such as the first hinge assembly 66. For example, the locking mechanism 110 can be at least partially disposed between the first bracket 82 and / or the second bracket 84 of the first hinge assembly 66. After reading this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the table 10 can include more than one locking mechanism 110, such as a first locking mechanism 110 with the first hinge assembly 66 and a second locking mechanism 110 with the second hinge assembly 68. One of ordinary skill in the art should also appreciate that the locking mechanism 110 can be connected to any desired section of the table 10.

[0062] like Fig. 7A , 7B , 9A and 9B, the locking mechanism 110 may include a locking member 112, and the locking member may include a first section 114 and a second section 116. The first section 114 of the locking member 112 may be connected to a first section of the table 10, such as the connector 94. The second section 116 of the locking member 112 may be connected to a locking structure 118, such as a locking pin. The locking structure 118 may be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. When the locking structure 118 is in the locked position, the desktop 12 may be set in a fixed position. When the locking structure 118 is in the unlocked position, the desktop 12 may be moved between a use position and a retracted position.

[0063] The locking member 112 may include a connecting member 120, and the connecting member 120 may connect the first section 114 and the second section 116 of the locking member 112. The first section 114, the second section 116, and the connecting member 120 may be part of a single one-piece structure or construction. Advantageously, the single one-piece structure of the locking member 112 may facilitate assembly of the locking mechanism 110 and / or the table 10. The single one-piece structure of the locking member 112 may also reduce the number of parts, simplify assembly, increase production efficiency, streamline manufacturing, etc.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment, the size and configuration of the connection member 120 can be designed to bias the locking member 112 into one or more desired positions or configurations. For example, the locking member 112 can bias the second section 116 of the locking member 112 into a desired position. For example, the first section 114 of the locking member 112 can be connected in a fixed section of the table 10, such as the connector 94, and the second section 116 of the locking member can be moved relative to the first section 114 of the locking member 112. In an exemplary embodiment, the first section 114 of the locking member 112 can be rotatably connected to the connector 94, and the second section 116 of the locking member 112 can be connected to the locking structure 118. The size and configuration of the locking mechanism 110 and / or the locking member 112 can be designed to move the locking structure 118 between one or more positions, such as a locked position and an unlocked position. The size, shape, configuration and / or arrangement of the connection member 120 can be designed to bias the locking structure 118 into a desired position, such as a locked position. For example, the connecting member 120 can be constructed of a flexible, resilient, and / or elastic material that allows the second section 116 of the locking member 112 to move relative to the first section 114 of the locking member 112. The size and configuration of the connecting member 120 can be designed to apply a force tending to move the second section 116 of the locking member 112 into a desired position, such as a locked position.

[0065] like Fig.9A and Fig. 9BAs shown, for example, the first section 114 of the locking member 112 may include a hole 122, which is sized and configured to allow the locking member to be connected to the connector 94. The second section 116 of the locking member 112 may include a hole 124, which is sized and configured to allow the locking member to be connected to the locking structure 118. The connecting member 120 may have a curved configuration with one or more curved sections. For example, the connecting member 120 may include a first section 126, and the first section 126 may have a slightly arched or arched configuration. The connecting member 120 may include a second section 128, and the second section 128 may have a curled or coiled configuration, such as a generally U-shaped configuration. The connecting member 120 may include a third section 130, and the third section may have a curved configuration extending in a different direction and / or at a different angle than the first section 126 and / or the second section 128. For example, the first section 126 of the connecting member 120 may be arranged at an angle of about 15 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 5 degrees, or less. The second section 128 of the connecting member 120 can be configured as a generally U-shaped configuration, but it can also be configured as other configurations, such as a generally V-shaped configuration, a generally W-shaped configuration, etc. The third section 130 can be configured at an angle of about 25 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 35 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 45 degrees, about 50 degrees, or more. After reading this disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the locking mechanism 110 and the locking member 112 can have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements, depending on, for example, the intended use of the table 10.

[0066] The locking member 112 can be constructed of a relatively strong and durable material, such as plastic. The locking member 112 can also be constructed of a relatively lightweight material, which can reduce the weight of the table 10. The locking member 112 can also include one or more holes, such as hole 132. The hole 132 can reduce the weight of the locking member 112, and the hole 132 allows the locking member 112 to be constructed with less material. After reading this disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the locking member 112 can be constructed of other materials with appropriate properties.

[0067] The locking member 112 may include a controller 134, and the controller 134 may be used to move or otherwise control the locking member 112. For example, the controller 134 may be used to move the locking member 112, such as rotating the first section 114 of the locking member 112 about the connector 94. The controller 134 may extend outwardly from the first section 114 of the locking member 112, and the controller may include a surface 136, such as an engagement or contact surface.

[0068] A force or input may be applied to the controller 134, such as the engagement surface 136, to lock and / or unlock the locking member 112. For example, when the locking member 112 is in the locked position, a force or input may be required to unlock the locking member 112. For example, a force greater than the biasing force may be required to unlock the locking member 112. In an exemplary embodiment, a force may be applied to the engagement surface 136 of the controller 134, and the force may unlock the locking mechanism 110. In more detail, a force may be applied to the engagement surface 136 of the controller 134, and the first section 114 of the locking member 112 may be rotated in a first direction. The rotation of the first section 114 of the locking member 112 may cause the second section 116 of the locking member 112 to move the locking structure 118 between the locked position and the unlocked position. When the force is removed from the controller 134 or the force is reduced to a sufficient amount, the locking member 112 may be biased to return the locking mechanism 110 to the locked configuration.

[0069] like Figure 6B and 6C As shown, the locking mechanism 110 can be at least partially disposed between the flanges 86, 88, 90, and / or 92 of the first bracket 82 and the second bracket 84 of the first hinge assembly 66. The controller 134 can extend outwardly relative to the flanges 86, 88, 90, and / or 92, which can increase contact with the engagement surface 136. Positioning the locking mechanism 110 at least partially between the flanges 86, 88, 90, and / or 92 can help protect the locking mechanism 110 from damage and can help position the locking member 112 in a desired position or arrangement. After reading this disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the locking mechanism 110 can be disposed in other locations and that the locking mechanism 110 can have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements.

[0070] As described above, the locking mechanism 110 can lock the desktop 12 in the deployed position or the use position. The locking mechanism 110 can also unlock the desktop 12 so that the desktop 12 can move between the use position and the retracted position. In more detail, the size and configuration of the locking mechanism 110 can be designed to lock the hinge assembly (such as the first hinge assembly 66 and / or the second hinge assembly 68) in a fixed position, which prevents the desktop 12 from folding. Although the figures show the locking mechanism 110 in conjunction with the first hinge assembly 66, it should be understood that the locking member can also be used in conjunction with the second hinge assembly 68. In addition, the table 10 may include any suitable number of locking mechanisms, such as a first locking mechanism used with the first hinge assembly 66 and a second locking member used with the second hinge assembly 68.

[0071] As shown in the figures, the locking structure 118 can be disposed in an opening 138 (e.g., a slot). Specifically, the locking structure 118 can move in the opening 138. The opening 138 can be disposed in a portion of the hinge assembly, such as the flange 92 of the second bracket 84 of the first hinge assembly 66. The locking structure 118 can move in the opening 138 between a first position in which the locking structure locks the hinge assembly 66 and a second position in which the hinge assembly is unlocked. As shown in the figures, the locking structure 118 can have a generally cylindrical configuration, which can facilitate the movement of the locking structure in the opening 138. The locking structure 118 can also have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements, depending on, for example, the configuration of the hinge assembly 66 and / or the opening 138.

[0072] In more detail, the opening 138 may be disposed in the flange 90 and / or flange 92 of the second bracket 84. The first bracket 82 may include a receiving section or engagement surface 140 and a curved surface or cam surface 142. The size and configuration of the engagement surface 140 may be designed to abut, contact and / or engage the locking structure 118 when the locking structure is in the locked position. The contact between the locking structure 118 and the engagement surface 140 may fix the hinge assembly 66 in a fixed position, and the contact between the locking structure and the engagement surface may prevent the hinge assembly from closing or folding. When the locking mechanism 110 is disposed in the unlocked position, the cam surface 142 may contact the locking structure 118, which may allow the hinge assembly 66 to open or close. The cam surface 142 may help maintain the locking structure 118 in the unlocked position, which may facilitate the movement of the hinge assembly 66 and allow the folding and / or unfolding of the desktop 12. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, when the locking structure 118 of the locking mechanism 110 is in the locked position, the locking structure 118 may contact the engagement surface 140 and this may prevent the hinge assembly 66 from closing. On the other hand, when the locking structure 118 is in the unlocked position, the locking structure 118 may not contact the engagement surface 140 and the hinge assembly 66 may open or close. This may allow the desktop 12 to be easily moved between the folded configuration and the unfolded configuration.

[0073] like Figure 6B As shown, the locking structure 118 can engage the engagement surface 140 to secure the hinge assembly 66 in the open position. In this exemplary configuration, the locking structure 118 can be disposed toward one end (e.g., the first end 144) of the opening 138, and this can be referred to as a locked position because the locking structure 118 can engage the engagement surface 140 to lock the hinge assembly 66 in a fixed position. When the hinge assembly 66 is disposed in a fixed position, the desktop 12 can be disposed in a fixed position, such as an open position or a use position. Figure 6CAs shown, the locking structure 118 can move within the opening 138. For example, the locking structure 118 can move between a first end 144 of the opening 138 and a second end 146 of the opening. When the locking structure 118 is disposed toward the second end 146 of the opening 138, the locking structure 118 may not abut, contact, and / or engage the engagement surface 140, which may allow the hinge assembly 66 to move or close. This may be referred to as an unlocked position because the locking structure 118 may not engage the engagement surface 140, and this may allow the hinge assembly 66 to open or close. When the locking structure 118 is disposed in the unlocked position, the locking structure may be spaced apart from and / or contact the cam surface 142 when the hinge assembly 66 is opened or closed. After reading this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the locking mechanism 110, the locking member 112, the locking structure 118, the opening 138, the engagement surface 140, the cam surface 142, etc. may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements, depending, for example, on the intended use of the table 10.

[0074] In operation, the table 10 may be arranged in a folded configuration, such as Figure 4 The tabletop 12 can be configured to be in an expanded configuration, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first support structure 32 and the second support structure 34 can be moved from the retracted position to the use position, as shown Figure 2 As shown. When the desktop 12 moves from the folded position to the deployed position, the locking mechanism 110 can automatically lock the desktop in the deployed position. For example, when the desktop 12 moves from the folded position to the deployed position, the locking structure 118 can follow the cam surface 142. When the desktop 12 is in the deployed position, the locking member 112 can bias the locking structure 118 to the locked position, in which the locking structure 118 engages the engagement surface 140. Advantageously, when the desktop moves into the deployed position, the locking mechanism 110 can allow the desktop 12 to automatically lock in the deployed position. When it is necessary to move and / or fold the desktop 12, the user can apply force and / or press the controller 134, which can cause the locking member 112 to move the locking structure 118 within the opening 138. Specifically, the locking member 112 can move the locking structure 118 so that it no longer abuts, contacts and / or engages the engagement surface 140, which can allow the hinge 66 to rotate and the desktop 12 to move between the deployed position and the deployed position. Thus, when the locking structure 118 is no longer disposed in the locked position, the table top 12 may be moved between the folded position and the deployed position.

[0075] A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate after reading this disclosure that the table 10 and various components, such as the table top 12, support structures 32, 34, frame 52, hinge assemblies 66, 68, cross members 62, 64, locking mechanism 110, etc., may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements, depending on, for example, the intended use of the table 10.

[0076] Although the present invention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments that are apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A locking mechanism for a folding table, the locking mechanism being sized and configured to lock the tabletop in a fixed position, the locking mechanism comprising: A hinge assembly comprising: a first bracket including a cam surface and an engagement segment; A second bracket including an elongated opening; and a connector rotatably connecting the first bracket and the second bracket; a locking member comprising a first section, a second section and a connecting section connecting the first section and the second section, the connecting section being elastically deformable, the first section, the second section and the connecting section being a single one-piece structure, the first section of the locking member being connected to a connector of the hinge assembly; and A locking structure is arranged in an elongated opening in the second bracket of the hinge assembly, the locking structure is connected to the second section of the locking member, the locking structure is capable of moving between a locked position and an unlocked position, the size and structure of the locking member are designed to bias the locking structure into the locked position, and the size and structure of the elastically deformable connecting section are designed to allow the locking structure to move between the locked position and the unlocked position.

2. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: The first bracket includes one or more flanges; wherein the second bracket includes one or more flanges; wherein the cam surface is formed by a portion of one or more flanges of the first bracket; and The engagement surface is formed by a portion of one or more flanges of the first bracket.

3. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: The locking member comprises an engagement surface; and A user may apply a force to the engagement surface to unlock the locking mechanism.

4. The locking mechanism according to claim 3, wherein: the engagement surface of the locking member extends outwardly from the first section of the locking member, and Wherein the locking member rotates about the connector when a force is applied to the engagement surface.

5. The locking mechanism according to claim 3, wherein: A force applied to the engagement surface causes the locking member to rotate relative to the connector, and wherein rotation of the locking member relative to the connector moves the locking structure from the locked position to the unlocked position.

6. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: The locking member biases the locking structure into a locked position.

7. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting section of the locking member includes an angled section that is resiliently deformable to allow the locking structure to move between the locked position and the unlocked position.

8. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting section of the locking member has a generally U-shaped configuration that is elastically deformable to allow the locking structure to move between the locked position and the unlocked position.

9. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: the connecting section of the locking member having a generally U-shaped configuration that is elastically deformable to allow the locking structure to move between the locked position and the unlocked position; wherein the connecting section biases the locking structure toward the first section of the locking member; and Rotation of the first section of the locking member moves the locking structure between the locked position and the unlocked position.

10. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: The locking member is rotatably connected to the connector.

11. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: A first section of the locking member is rotatably connected to the connector; and Wherein the second section of the locking member is rotatably connected to the locking structure.

12. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: The hinge assembly pivotally connects the first portion and the second portion of the table top; wherein in the locked position, the locking structure engages the engagement surface to prevent rotation of the hinge assembly, and Wherein in the unlocked position, the locking structure is disengaged from the engagement surface to allow the hinge assembly to rotate.

13. The locking mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a release extending outwardly from the first section of the locking member; and Wherein a force applied to the release member causes the first section of the locking member to rotate, and the rotation of the first section of the locking member causes the second section of the locking member to move the locking structure from the locked position to the unlocked position.

14. The locking mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a release extending outwardly from the locking member; wherein the locking member is disposed substantially between one or more flanges of the first bracket and one or more flanges of the second bracket; and The release member extends beyond outer surfaces of one or more flanges of the first bracket and one or more flanges of the second bracket.

15. A table, comprising: desktop; a frame connected to the tabletop; at least one support structure sized and configured to support the tabletop above a surface, the support structure being movable between a use position and a retracted position; A hinge assembly comprising: a first bracket connected to the first section of the tabletop, the first bracket comprising an engagement surface and a cam surface; a second bracket connected to the second section of the table top, the second bracket including a slot; and a connector capable of rotatably connecting the first bracket and the second bracket; a locking structure disposed within the slot, the locking structure being movable between a locked position in which the locking structure engages the engagement surface and an unlocked position in which the locking structure is spaced apart from the engagement surface; A locking member comprising: A first section rotatably connected to the connector; and a second section connected to the locking structure; wherein rotation of the first section of the locking member about the connector causes the second section of the locking member to move the locking structure between the locked position and the unlocked position; and A release extends from the first section of the locking member, the release being sized and configured to rotate the first section of the locking member about the connector when a user applies a force to the release.

16. The table according to claim 15, wherein The locking member biases the locking structure into the locked position.

17. The table of claim 15, further comprising a connecting section connecting the first section and the second section of the locking member, at least a portion of the connecting section having a generally U-shaped configuration.

18. The table according to claim 15, wherein: The locking member is biased to move the locking structure from the unlocked position to the locked position, and When the desktop is arranged in the unfolded position, the locking member automatically locks the locking structure in the locked position.

19. The table according to claim 15, wherein: The locking member includes a connecting section connecting the first section and the second section of the locking member, the connecting section being elastically deformable to allow the locking structure to move between the locked position and the unlocked position, the locking member biasing the locking structure into the locked position.

20. A table, comprising: a tabletop comprising a first section and a second section; A hinge assembly pivotally connecting the first section and the second section of the table top, the hinge assembly comprising: a first bracket including a cam surface and an engagement segment; A second bracket including an elongated opening; and a connector rotatably connecting the first bracket and the second bracket; one or more support structures connected to the table top, the support structures being sized and configured to support the table top above a surface; and A locking mechanism sized and configured to lock the tabletop in a fixed position, the locking mechanism comprising: A locking member, comprising a first section, a second section and a connecting section connecting the first section and the second section, wherein the connecting section is elastically deformable, the first section, the second section and the connecting section are a single one-piece structure, and the first section of the locking member is rotatably connected to a connector of the hinge assembly; a locking structure disposed within the elongated opening in the second bracket of the hinge assembly, the locking structure connected to the second section of the locking member, the locking structure movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, the locking member being sized and configured to bias the locking structure into the locked position; A release extends from the first section of the locking member, the release being sized and configured to rotate the first section of the locking member about the connector when a user applies a force to the release.

Images