Foldable table

Abstract

The invention relates to a foldable table. In one or more embodiments, an apparatus includes a table. The table includes a first central section and a second central section. The table further includes a plurality of joints configured to facilitate movement of the first central section and the second central section. Movement of the first center section and the second center section causes one or more dimensions of the table to change.

Description

[0001] introduction

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a foldable table. Summary of the invention

[0003] The present invention describes a foldable table that is particularly suitable for storage and transportation in a storage compartment of a vehicle, such as a front trunk ("trunk").

[0004] In one or more embodiments, the device includes a table. The table includes a first center segment and a second center segment. The table further includes a plurality of joints configured to facilitate movement of the first center segment and the second center segment. The movement of the first center segment and the second center segment causes one or more dimensions of the table to change.

[0005] In one or more embodiments, a method for unfolding a table includes translating a first center segment and a second center segment of the table outwardly from each other so that one or more dimensions of the table change. The table includes a plurality of joints configured to facilitate translation of the first center segment and the second center segment. The method further includes placing one or more panels on the table to form a tabletop. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1A A foldable table is shown in a folded configuration according to certain embodiments.

[0007] Figure 1B and Figure 1C A foldable table is shown in an expanded configuration with various mounted accessories according to certain embodiments.

[0008] Figure 1D A foldable table is shown in a partially deployed configuration according to certain embodiments.

[0009] Figure 2A A tabletop frame of a foldable table is shown in a folded configuration according to certain embodiments.

[0010] Figure 2B An arrangement of legs of a foldable table in a folded configuration is shown according to certain embodiments.

[0011] Figure 2C and Figure 2D A foldable table is shown according to some embodiments, wherein the legs of the foldable table are unfolded and the tabletop frame of the foldable table is folded.

[0012] Figure 2E A tabletop frame of a foldable table is shown in an intermediate configuration between a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration.

[0013] Figure 2F A tabletop frame of a foldable table is shown in an expanded configuration according to certain embodiments.

[0014] Figure 2G Panels of a foldable table are shown according to certain embodiments.

[0015] Figure 3A A foldable table is shown positioned within a storage compartment of a vehicle when in a folded configuration, according to certain embodiments.

[0016] Figure 3B A foldable table shaped to conform to the non-rectangular shape of a storage compartment of a vehicle is shown.

[0017] Figure 3C A foldable table is shown positioned in a cargo area of ​​a vehicle according to certain embodiments.

[0018] Figure 4 is a process flow diagram of a method for unfolding a foldable table according to certain embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Off-road vehicles enable drivers and passengers to explore exciting new locations. The vehicle may be provided with accessories, such as a rooftop or truck bed tent, camping kitchen, etc., to make overnight camping more comfortable. While many accessories may be located in the truck bed or mounted to a roof rack, the user will also need to store equipment and supplies within the vehicle itself. Therefore, it is advantageous to make the equipment for storage within the vehicle itself as compact as possible.

[0020] The present disclosure describes a foldable table that is well suited for storage within a storage compartment of a vehicle, such as within a rear trunk, front trunk ("trunk"), or other cargo area of ​​the vehicle. The foldable table is specifically sized to be stored either flat or in a vertical orientation within a storage compartment of a particular vehicle. The foldable table includes a tabletop frame having a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration, and a work surface comprised of a plurality of panels that conform to the size of the tabletop frame when in the folded configuration. The tabletop frame and the plurality of panels can thus be stacked on top of each other and placed in a space that is much smaller than the footprint of the foldable table when in the unfolded configuration.

[0021] refer to Figures 1A to 1C, the foldable table 100 can be understood relative to a horizontal direction 102a, a longitudinal direction 102b, and a vertical direction 102c, which are all perpendicular to each other. The foldable table 100 is described relative to the directions 102a, 102b, 102c (which may also be referred to as relative to the length, width, and height of the foldable table 100, respectively) to facilitate understanding of the relative positions and orientations of the components of the table 100, while understanding that the directions 102a, 102b, 102c do not necessarily correspond to the actual orientation of the foldable table 100 during use. In the following description, the directions 102a, 102b, 102c are defined relative to the tabletop frame 104 of the table 100.

[0022] Table 100 has Figure 1A The folded configuration shown, wherein the desktop frame 104 is folded and two, three or more panels 106 can be stacked with the desktop frame 104 (above or below the desktop frame 104) to achieve a compact size. When in the folded configuration, the desktop frame 104 has a dimension 108a in the horizontal direction 102a and a dimension 108b in the longitudinal direction 102b. In the illustrated embodiment, the dimension 108b is larger than the dimension 108a, such as between 1.5 times and 3 times.

[0023] The panels 106 are generally planar members having a planar surface 106a that is substantially (e.g., within 5 degrees) orthogonal to the vertical direction 102c defined by the desktop frame 104 when stacked with the desktop frame 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the panels 106 each have a rectangular shape in a plane parallel to their planar surface 106a. The panels 106 may have edges that conform to the rectangular shape with other features extending between the edges, such as one or more bevels (see, for example, FIG. Figure 3B In various embodiments, other shapes may be implemented such that each panel 106 has at least one edge located on a rectangular shape, each panel 106 is substantially contained within the rectangular shape, and each panel 106 may abut another panel in the plurality of panels 106.

[0024] The rectangular shape has a dimension 110a and a dimension 110b perpendicular to dimension 110a in a plane parallel to flat surface 106a. Dimensions 110a and 110b can be substantially (e.g., within 5%, 10%, or 15%) equal to dimensions 108a, 108b, respectively. In some embodiments, dimensions 110a, 110b are not greater than dimensions 108a, 108b, respectively. In this way, panel 106 and desktop frame 104 can be formed in a manner that is consistent with the embodiment of FIG. Figure 1A The compact configuration shown in the stack.

[0025] Although the panel 106 is shown as having a rectangular shape, other shapes may also be implemented. For example, the panel 106 may include a rectangular panel and two semicircular panels that together define a disc-shaped rectangle in the expanded configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the panels 106 are substantially (e.g., within 5%) equal to each other. However, other configurations may be implemented. For example, two panels with rounded edges or beveled edges may be used on either side of a third panel that is both smaller and rectangular.

[0026] The panel 106 can be made of a material strong enough to avoid deflection during use and to withstand wear and tear. The panel 106 can be made of wood, metal (e.g., aluminum or steel), or plastic (e.g., polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene, acrylic, polyethylene, polystyrene, etc.). The panel 106 can be made of a composite material, such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar fiber, or other composite materials.

[0027] The tabletop frame 104 may be made of steel, aluminum, or any other material, such as the plastics or composite materials listed above. Unless otherwise noted below, the components of the tabletop frame 104 may be made of round or rectangular tubing, such as tubing with a cross-sectional dimension between 2 cm and 10 cm and a wall thickness between 2 mm and 4 mm for metal, where plastic materials or composite materials may have a greater wall thickness.

[0028] refer to Figure 1B , while still referring to Figure 1A In the expanded configuration, the desktop frame 104 has a dimension 108c in the horizontal direction 102a that is much larger than the dimension 108a, such as at least two times, at least three times, or a greater multiple. Figure 1B As shown, dimension 108c is substantially (eg, within 10%) equal to an integer multiple of dimension 108a, where the integer multiple is equal to the number of panels 106, such as two, three, or a greater value.

[0029] In the expanded configuration, the panel 106 rests on the desktop frame 104, wherein the dimension 110b of the panel is oriented substantially (e.g., within 5 degrees) parallel to the longitudinal direction 102b and the dimension 108b of the desktop frame 104, wherein the edges of adjacent panels 106 define a gap of less than 5 mm, 2 mm, or 1 mm or abut each other. When resting on the desktop frame 104, the flat surfaces 106a of the panels 106 can be substantially (e.g., within 2 degrees) parallel to each other and substantially coplanar (e.g., their centers are within 5 mm, 2 mm, or 1 mm of each other along the vertical direction 102c). The panel 106 can extend outward from the desktop frame 104 in one or both of the horizontal direction 102a and the longitudinal direction 102b, or can be positioned at the perimeter of the desktop frame 104 or completely within the perimeter of the desktop frame along one or both of the horizontal direction 102a and the longitudinal direction 102b.

[0030] In the expanded configuration, the legs 112 can be fixed to the desktop frame 104, wherein the legs 112 extend downward from the lower surface 104b of the desktop frame 104, and the panels 106 are placed on the upper surface 104a of the desktop frame 104 opposite to the lower surface 104b along the vertical direction 102c to form the desktop 105. In the expanded configuration, the desktop 105 can include a surface defined by a plurality of panels 106 (e.g., two panels 106, three panels 106, or more panels 106), such as Figure 1B and Figure 1C In a partially unfolded or folded configuration, the tabletop 105 may include a surface defined by a single panel 106 (e.g., one or more panels 106 are stacked below a single panel 106, such as Figure 1A 102c). The legs 112 may extend downwardly from the lower surface 104b, with the longest dimension of the legs being substantially parallel (e.g., within 5 degrees) to the vertical direction 102c. In the folded configuration, the legs 112 may be (a) detached from the desktop frame 104 or (b) pivoted such that the longest dimension of the legs is substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction 102c, such as at an angle between 80 and 90 degrees or between 85 and 90 degrees relative to the vertical direction 102c. Exemplary embodiments including legs 112 pivotally secured to the desktop frame 104 are described in further detail below. In other embodiments, when in the deployed configuration, the legs 112 are at some other non-perpendicular angle, such as scissor legs.

[0031] In some embodiments, one or more brackets 114 can be mounted to the legs 112 to resist folding of the legs 112 relative to the desktop frame 104. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the brackets 114 connect pairs of legs 112 that are offset from each other in the longitudinal direction 102b and substantially aligned (e.g., within 2 cm) in the horizontal direction 102a. In other words, the legs 112 positioned adjacent to the corners connected by the common edge of the desktop frame 104 can be connected by the brackets 114. The longest dimension of each bracket 114 can be oriented substantially (e.g., within 5 degrees) parallel to one of the directions 102a, 102b, or can be diagonally positioned between the legs 112 that are offset from each other in both the horizontal direction 102a and the longitudinal direction 102b. The brackets 114 can be fixed to the legs 112 by screwing into threaded holes formed on the legs 112 or engaging mounting brackets or some other mounting structures fixed to the legs 112.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the desktop frame 104 includes a first end segment 116a and a second end segment 116b. The first and second end segments 116a, 116b may have a fixed dimension in the longitudinal direction 102b that does not change between the folded configuration and the unfolded configuration. When transitioning from the folded configuration to the unfolded configuration, the distance between the first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b expands.

[0033] One or more fasteners 118 can be used to secure the first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b to each other in the folded configuration. One or more fasteners 118 can be disengaged to transform the desktop frame 104 into the expanded configuration. For example, the fastener 118 shown can be used alone or in conjunction with a second fastener (not shown) on the opposite side of the desktop frame 104 along the longitudinal direction 102b.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener 118 may include a pivoting hook 118a secured to the first end segment 116a that engages a post 118b secured to the second end segment 116b (or vice versa). The fastener 118 may also be embodied as an over-center latch secured to the first end segment 116a that engages a hook secured to the second end segment 116b (or vice versa), or a strap secured to the first end segment 116a and engaging a buckle on the second end segment 116b (or vice versa). The fastener 118 may be embodied as a clip portion secured to the first end segment 116a and engaging a clip portion secured to the second end segment 116b, such as a portion of a side release buckle or other type of clip. The fastener 118 may also be implemented as other types of fasteners.

[0035] like Figure 1B and Figure 1C As shown, various accessories 120a, 120b, 120c may be used with the table 100 when it is in the expanded configuration. For example, the panel 106 may define an opening 122 for receiving a basin 120a (such as the foldable basin shown). The basin 120a may be removed from the opening 122 when the table 100 is in the folded configuration, or the basin 120a may be retained in the opening 122 in a folded state when the table 100 is in the folded configuration. Accessories for use with the table 100 may include a stove 120b supported on the table 100. In the expanded configuration, the stove 120b may have a length equal to or greater than dimension 108c of the table 100. The stove 120b may be a gas stove or an electric stove, such as an electric stove powered by a battery of an electric vehicle. In some embodiments, the storage structure 120c ( Figure 1C ) rests on or is mounted to one or more of the panels 106. The storage structure 120c may define one or more shelves, drawers, bins, or other storage compartments for storing cooking utensils, appliances, or other items. One or more panels may define one or more registration features (e.g., registration holes, pins, mounting brackets, etc.) for mounting the illustrated accessories 120b, 120c or other accessories.

[0036] refer to Figure 1D In some embodiments, the table 100 can be used in a partially deployed configuration, wherein the tabletop frame 104 is maintained in a folded configuration, i.e., having dimensions 108a, 108b with the legs 112 in their deployed configuration. A single panel 106 can then be placed on the tabletop frame 104, or multiple panels 106 can be stacked on top of each other.

[0037] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2F An exemplary embodiment of the process of transforming the table 100 from the folded configuration to the deployed configuration and the structure of the tabletop frame 104 that facilitates the transformation is shown. The process of transforming the table 100 from the deployed configuration to the folded configuration is the reverse of the process of transforming the table 100 from the folded configuration to the deployed configuration.

[0038] Specific reference Figure 2A , the first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b define inwardly facing surfaces 202a, 202b. The inwardly facing surfaces 202a, 202b face inwardly into the tabletop frame 104 and define a space in which the plurality of links are positioned in the folded configuration. The inwardly facing surfaces 202a, 202b may be substantially (e.g., within 5 degrees) parallel to the vertical direction 102c or may be circular or have some other orientation.

[0039] The first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b are joined to each other by foldable sides 204a, 204b, respectively, which are positioned between the inwardly facing surfaces 202a, 202b along a horizontal direction when the desktop frame 104 is in the folded configuration. The foldable sides 204a, 204b can have a mirror image configuration relative to each other. Each foldable side 204a, 204b includes a plurality of engagement portions that facilitate movement of the first end segment 116a relative to the second end segment 116b to change the size of the desktop frame 104, such as from having a size 108a to having a size 108c. For example, each foldable side 204a, 204b can include a pivotable portion 206a pivotally connected to the first end segment 116a by a pivot 208a and a pivotable portion 206b pivotally connected to the second end segment 116b by a pivot 208b.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the first segment 116a and the second segment 116b can each include an extension 210a, 210b, respectively, that is rigidly fixed to either end of the first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b along the longitudinal direction 102b. The extensions 210a, 210b can be fixed to the first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b by being integrally formed as a part of the first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b or fastened to the first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b by bolts, welds or other types of fasteners. The extensions 210a, 210b extend outwardly relative to the inwardly facing surfaces 202a, 202b and extend inwardly into the tabletop frame 104 along the horizontal direction 102a. The pivots 208a, 208b may pivotally mount the pivotable portions 206a, 206b to the extensions 210a, 210b, respectively, such that the pivots 208a, 208b are offset inwardly from the inwardly facing surfaces 202a, 202b, such as between 10% and 50% of the dimension 108a.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the outwardly facing surfaces of the first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b (e.g., facing outwardly along the horizontal direction 102a) are parallel to the longitudinal direction 102b, and the outwardly facing surfaces of the extensions 210a, 210b (e.g., facing outwardly along the longitudinal direction 102b) are parallel to the horizontal direction 102a. However, other configurations may also be used, including extensions 210a and / or extensions 210b having outwardly facing surfaces that define a diagonal relative to the outwardly facing surfaces of the first end segment 116a and the second end segment 116b, such as for Figure 3B In the embodiment shown in .

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, the extensions 210a, 210b define inwardly facing cavities 212 into which the pivotable portions 206a, 206b are inserted, respectively. For example, the extensions 210a, 210b may be implemented using portions of a U-shaped channel strip, wherein the opening of the U-shaped channel faces inwardly toward the desktop frame 104. The pivots 208a, 208b may be implemented as pins, bolts, or other fasteners that enter the cavities 212 and pass through the pivotable portions 206a, 206b, respectively.

[0043] The plurality of joints of each foldable side 204a, 204b may further include a central segment 214. The pivotable portions 206a, 206b of each foldable side 204a, 204b extend from pivots 208a, 208b to the central segment 214, respectively, and are pivotally fixed to the central segment 214 by pivots 216a, 216b, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the central segment 214 defines a cavity 218 for receiving the pivotable portions 206a, 206b. For example, the central segment 214 may be implemented as a U-shaped channel strip, wherein the opening of the U-shaped channel faces outward from the desktop frame 104, i.e., in the opposite direction of the cavity 212 of the extensions 210a, 210b. The pivots 216a, 216b may be implemented as pins, bolts or other fasteners, which enter the cavity 218 and pass through the pivotable portions 206a, 206b, respectively.

[0044] The offset between the pivots 208a, 208b and the first and second end segments 116a, 116b along the horizontal direction 102a, the offset between the pivots 216a, 216b along the horizontal direction 102b secures the pivotable portions 206a, 206b to the center segment 214, and the distance between the pivots 208a, 208b and the pivots 216a, 216b along each pivotable portion 206a, 206b defines a dimension 108c of the table 100 when in the deployed configuration. The extent to which the extensions 210a, 210b extend outwardly from the first and second end segments 116a, 116b in the horizontal direction 102a can define a dimension 108a of the tabletop frame 104 in the folded configuration.

[0045] The offset between the inwardly facing surfaces 202a, 202b along the horizontal direction 102a in the folded configuration can define a limit on the length of the center segment 214. For example, in some embodiments, the center segment 214 can have a length between 50% and 98% of the dimension 108a, but other configurations can be implemented. The dimension 108b can define a limit on the length of the pivotable portions 206a, 206b, i.e., the length at which the center segments 214 of the foldable sides 204a, 204b will interfere with each other, but in other embodiments, overlap is allowed. The offset between the pivots 216a, 216b on the center segment 214 helps increase the dimension 108c without increasing the dimension 108b to accommodate the longer pivotable portions 206a, 206b. More generally, the lengths of the extensions 210a, 210b and the length of the center section 214 between the pivots 216a, 216b are variable and can be adjusted to achieve the desired dimensions 108a and 108c of the tabletop frame 104 for a given dimension 108b.

[0046] Control arms 220a, 220b can be pivotally mounted to the center section 214 and the extensions 210a, 210b of each foldable side 204a, 204b, respectively. The control arms 220a, 220b constrain the center section 214 to move substantially (e.g., within 10 degrees) parallel to the horizontal direction 102a. This constraint enables the user to more easily transition the desktop frame 104 between the deployed configuration and the folded configuration by eliminating some degrees of freedom and, therefore, eliminating potential uncontrolled or unpredictable pivoting of components of the desktop frame 104.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, each control arm 220a, 220b is fixed to a portion of the center segment 214 extending outward from the pivots 216a, 216b by pivots 222a, 222b, respectively. The control arms 220a, 220b are also pivotally fixed to the extensions 210a, 210b by pivots 224a, 224b, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the control arms 220a, 220b are implemented as flat plates that are thinner in the vertical direction 102c than in the horizontal direction 102a and the longitudinal direction 102b. The control arms 220a, 220b can be straight as in the illustrated embodiment, or can be curved in a plane parallel to the horizontal direction 102a and the longitudinal direction 102b to provide clearance for the pivots 208a, 208b when the foldable sides 204a, 204b are in the expanded configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the control arms 220a, 220b are mounted on the lower surface of the center section 214, and the extensions 210a, 210b face away from the panel 106 resting on the tabletop frame 104, but other arrangements are possible.

[0048] refer to Figure 2B, while still referring to Figure 2A , a pair of legs 112 may be pivotally mounted to each of the first end section 116a and the second end section 116b. The first end section 116a is shown and described with respect to the first end section 116a. Figure 2B , wherein the second end section 116b is constructed in the same manner. The leg 112a of the pair of legs 112 is mounted to the first end section 116a by a pivot 226a, and the middle leg 112b of the pair of legs 112 is mounted to the first end section 116a by a pivot 226b. The rotation axis of the pivots 226a, 226b can be substantially (e.g., within 5 degrees) parallel to the longitudinal direction 102b. The pivots 226a, 226b are offset from each other along the longitudinal direction 102b by an amount less than the dimension 108b, such as between 75% and 95% of the dimension 108b. The pivots 226a, 226b can also be offset from each other in the vertical direction 102c, such as when oriented with their long dimensions substantially (e.g., within 5 degrees) parallel to the longitudinal direction 102b, by an amount approximately (e.g., within 5%) equal to the thickness of the legs 112a, 112b in the vertical direction. In this manner, the legs 112a, 112b may be positioned substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction 102b. The leg 112b mounted to the pivot 226b (which is shorter when the table 100 is oriented with the legs 112 in the deployed configuration and resting on a support surface) may be shorter than the other leg 112a of the pair of legs 112 to compensate for the different positions of the pivots 226a, 226b along the vertical direction 102c.

[0049] refer to Figure 2C , when transitioning from the folded configuration to the deployed configuration, the legs 112 can first transition to the deployed configuration as shown, with the desktop frame 104 inverted and resting on a support surface. The brackets 114 can be placed in an appropriate position to prevent the legs 112 from pivoting back toward the desktop frame 104. Alternatively, a detent or other fastener can be used to prevent the legs 112 from pivoting away from the deployed configuration. Figure 2D , the user can then flip the table 100 so that the legs 112 are positioned between the tabletop frame 104 and the support surface. As shown, the center segment 214 is positioned within the outer perimeter of the tabletop frame 104 in both the partially deployed and folded configurations.

[0050] refer to Figure 2E, the user can then push the center segments 214 of the foldable sides 204a, 204b outwardly from each other, which causes the first end segments 116a, 116b to also push outwardly from each other. Alternatively or additionally, the user can pull the first end segments 116a and the second end segments 116b apart from each other, thereby moving the center segments 214 of the foldable sides 204a, 204b outwardly from each other. The constrained motion applied by the control arms 220a, 220b can facilitate the above-mentioned movement of the center segments 214 and the first end segments 116a, 116b. Therefore, in various embodiments, the control arms 220a, 220b ensure that the deployment of the desktop frame 104 is carried out in a controlled manner (e.g., wherein the center segments 214 remain substantially parallel to each other and the end segments 116a, 116b remain substantially parallel to each other), thereby improving ease of use and enabling the desktop frame 104 to be more reliably used in intermediate configurations, as described below in conjunction with. Figure 2E Further discussed in detail.

[0051] The user can push the center segments 214 outward from each other until they reach Figure 2F As shown, in the expanded configuration, the center segment 214 forms part of the edge and outer perimeter of the desktop frame 104. In some embodiments, the desktop frame 104 can also be used Figure 2E For example, in the intermediate configuration, (N-1) (e.g., two) panels 106 may rest on the tabletop frame 104, while N (e.g., three) panels 106 will fit on the tabletop frame 104 in the expanded configuration (see, e.g., Figure 1B and Figure 1C ), where N is an integer greater than two. Figure 2F As shown, in the deployed configuration, the pivotable portions 206a, 206b are disposed within the cavities 212 of the extensions 210a, 210b and within the cavity 218 of the central segment 214, which resist flexing of the foldable sides 204a, 204b in a plane parallel to the vertical direction 102c.

[0052] refer to Figure 2G , while still referring to Figure 2F, the desktop frame 104 can define a plurality of registration structures 228 that engage with corresponding registration structures 230 formed on the panel 106. The engagement of the registration structures 228, 230 with each other both (a) resists the inward movement of the center segment 214 toward each other and (b) resists the sliding of the panel 106 relative to the desktop frame 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the registration structures 228 are embodied as openings in the upper surface 104a of the desktop frame 104, and the registration structures 230 are implemented as pins, which are sized and positioned to be inserted into the openings when the desktop frame 104 is in the expanded configuration. These pins can extend from the surface 106b of the panel 106 opposite to the flat surface 106a. The opposite is also possible: the pins fixed to the desktop frame 104 can engage the openings defined by the panel 106. In some embodiments, a portion of the panels 106 (such as two of the three panels 106 shown) can have registration structures 230 that are configured to engage the registration structures 228 when the desktop frame 104 is in the intermediate configuration.

[0053] like Figure 2G As shown, some or all of the panels 106 may include one or more ribs 232 on the surface 106b opposite to the flat surface 106a. The ribs 232 may be fixed to the plate 106 or formed with the plate 106 by co-molding or some other process. The ribs 232 may be used to reinforce the panel 106 to prevent deflection during use. The ribs 232 may additionally help align the plate 106 between the foldable sides 204a, 204b. When the panel 106 is placed on the desktop frame 104, the ribs 232 may be oriented to be substantially (e.g., within 10 degrees) parallel to the longitudinal direction 102b, but other configurations may also be used.

[0054] refer to Figure 3A, the table 100 in the folded configuration can be sized to fit within a storage compartment 300 of a vehicle, such as a trunk or a cargo box of a vehicle 302. The storage compartment 300 can include one or more walls 304 that are oriented substantially vertically (e.g., parallel to gravity, where the vehicle 302 is resting on a flat surface) or slightly tilted (e.g., within 20 degrees relative to a vertical plane). The wall 304 can conform to a rectangle in a plane perpendicular to the vertical plane. The storage compartment 300 can further include one or more walls 306 that are non-rectangular in a plane perpendicular to the vertical plane, such as the walls 306 shown that are diagonally oriented (e.g., between 25 degrees and 65 degrees from parallel to or perpendicular to the wall 306) or rounded arms 306 between the walls 304. The dimensions 108a, 108b of the table 100 in the folded configuration can be selected to fit within a maximum rectangular shape that can be defined by the floor 308 of the storage compartment 300 that extends across the area between the walls 304, 306 of the storage compartment 300.

[0055] refer to Figure 3B In other embodiments, the tabletop frame 104 and one or more of the panels 106 may include bevels 310 that are sized and shaped to conform to the non-rectangular wall 306, thereby increasing the size of the table 100 when installed in a storage room. Figure 3C In other embodiments and / or methods of use, the table 100 in the folded configuration is positioned within a cargo area 312 of a vehicle 314, which is located forward of a tailgate 316 and / or a rear liftgate or tailgate of the vehicle 314 and rearward of seats 318 of the vehicle 314. The vehicle 314 may be embodied as an SUV, a hatchback, or other type of vehicle.

[0056] exist Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C In the illustrated method of use, the table 100 rests flat on the floor 308 or cargo area 312. However, other methods of use are possible, such as with the table 100 oriented vertically (with dimension 108a or 108b oriented substantially (e.g., within 15 degrees) parallel to a vertical plane).

[0057] refer to Figure 4As described above, a method 400 for unfolding a table (such as table 100) includes translating a first center segment and a second center segment (such as center segment 214 of foldable sides 204a, 204b) of the table outwardly from each other at block 402 so that one or more dimensions of the table are changed, such as by changing dimension 108a to dimension 108c. The table may include a plurality of joints configured to facilitate translation of the first center segment and the second center segment (such as pivotable portions 206a, 206b and center segment 214 of foldable sides 204a, 204b). The method 400 further includes placing one or more panels on the table to form a tabletop, such as panel 106 described above, at block 404.

[0058] In one or more embodiments, movement of the first center segment and the second center segment changes the table from having a first length to having a second length, such as from having dimension 108a to having dimension 108c. The first center segment and the second center segment can support the tabletop of the table. The first length can be an integer multiple of the second length, and the number of one or more panels can be equal to the integer multiple. The first length can correspond to a folded configuration, and the second length can correspond to an expanded configuration. In both the folded configuration and the expanded configuration, the first center segment and the second center segment can be substantially parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the first center segment and the second center segment are positioned within the outer perimeter of the table in the folded configuration and at the outer perimeter of the table in the expanded configuration. For example, as Figure 2A As shown, in the folded configuration, the center section 214 is positioned within the perimeter of the tabletop frame 104 and as shown in FIG. Figure 2F As shown, in the deployed configuration, the central segment 214 is positioned at the perimeter of the tabletop frame 104 .

[0059] In some embodiments, method 400 optionally includes translating a first end segment and a second end segment (such as first end segment 116a and second end segment 116b) outwardly from each other. A first foldable side including a first center segment can be secured to the first end segment and the second end segment, and a second foldable side including a second center segment can be secured to the first end segment and the second end segment, the first foldable side and the second foldable side including a plurality of engagement portions. Method 400 can further include securing a plurality of legs to the first end segment and the second end segment, such as legs 112 as described above. In some embodiments, one or both of (a) the first foldable side and the second foldable side, and (b) the first end segment and the second end segment define one or more first registration features, and one or more panels define one or more second registration features, such as registration features 228, 230, as described above.

[0060] Placing the one or more panels on the table may include engaging the one or more first registration features with the one or more second registration features such that the one or more panels resist inward movement of the first and second center segments. Securing the plurality of legs to the first and second end segments may include pivoting the plurality of legs outward from the first and second end segments.

[0061] The description of various embodiments of the present disclosure has been presented for illustrative purposes. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terms used herein are selected to explain the principles of the embodiments, practical applications, or technical improvements to technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable other persons of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0062] In the foregoing, reference is made to the embodiments presented in this disclosure. However, the scope of the present disclosure may extend beyond the specifically described embodiments. On the contrary, any combination of features and elements, whether or not related to different embodiments, is contemplated for use in implementing and practicing the contemplated embodiments. In addition, although the embodiments disclosed herein may achieve advantages over other possible solutions or over the prior art, the embodiments may achieve some advantages or no particular advantages. Therefore, the aspects, features, embodiments, and advantages discussed herein are merely illustrative.

[0063] While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further embodiments may be devised without departing from the basic scope of the present disclosure, and the scope of the present disclosure is determined by the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A device, comprising: A table, comprising: a first central segment and a second central segment; and A plurality of joints are configured to facilitate movement of the first center segment and the second center segment, wherein movement of the first center segment and the second center segment causes one or more dimensions of the table to change.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: Movement of the first central segment and the second central segment changes the table from having a first length to having a second length, and wherein the first central segment and the second central segment are configured to support a tabletop.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The second length is an integer multiple of the first length, and At the second length, the table is configured to support a tabletop comprising a plurality of panels, the plurality of panels being equal to the integer multiple.

4. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The first length corresponds to a folded configuration of the table, the second length corresponds to an expanded configuration of the table, and the first center segment and the second center segment remain substantially parallel to each other when the table transitions between the folded configuration and the expanded configuration.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein: The first central segment and the second central segment: is positioned within an outer perimeter of the table in the folded configuration, and Positioned at an outer perimeter of the table in the expanded configuration.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The table further comprises: a first foldable side including the first central segment, the first foldable side being secured to first and second end segments; and a second foldable side, the second foldable side comprising the second central segment, the second foldable side being secured to the first end segment and the second end segment, Wherein, the first foldable side and the second foldable side include the plurality of joining portions.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein: The first foldable side further comprises: a first pivotable portion pivotally secured to the first end segment; and a second pivotable portion pivotally secured to the second end section, wherein the first central section is pivotally secured to the first pivotable portion and pivotally secured to the second pivotable portion; and The second foldable side further comprises: a third pivotable portion pivotally secured to the first end segment; and a fourth pivotable portion pivotally secured to the second end section, Wherein, the second central section is pivotally fixed to the third pivotable portion and is pivotally fixed to the fourth pivotable portion.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein: The first foldable side further comprises: a first control arm pivotally mounted to the first end segment and pivotally mounted to the first center segment; and a second control arm pivotally mounted to the second end segment and pivotally mounted to the first center segment; and The second foldable side further comprises: a third control arm pivotally mounted to the first end segment and pivotally mounted to the second center segment; and A fourth control arm is pivotally mounted to the second end segment and pivotally mounted to the second center segment.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein: The first and second pivotable portions are pivotally mounted to the first center segment between the first and second control arms, and the third and fourth pivotable portions are pivotally mounted to the second center segment between the third and fourth control arms.

10. The device according to claim 6, wherein: (a) the first foldable side and the second foldable side, and (b) one or both of the first end segment and the second end segment define a plurality of first registration features, the apparatus further comprising: One or more panels are configured to rest on the first foldable side and the second foldable side and at least one of the first end segment and the second end segment to form a tabletop, the one or more panels defining a plurality of second registration features configured to engage the plurality of first registration features.

11. The device according to claim 6, wherein: The table includes a plurality of legs secured to the first end segment and the second end segment, the plurality of legs being pivotable into (a) a folded configuration substantially parallel to the first end segment and the second end segment, and (b) an unfolded configuration substantially perpendicular to the first end segment and the second end segment.

12. The device according to claim 2, wherein: The tabletop defines one or more features configured to mount accessories, the accessories including one or more of the following: pot; Cooking stoves; and Storage structure.

13. A method for unfolding a table, the method comprising: translating a first central segment and a second central segment of the table outwardly from each other such that one or more dimensions of the table change, wherein the table includes a plurality of joints configured to facilitate translation of the first central segment and the second central segment; as well as One or more panels are placed on the table to form a tabletop.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein: Movement of the first and second central segments changes the table from having a first length to having a second length, and wherein the first and second central segments are configured to support a tabletop of the table.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein: The first length is an integer multiple of the second length, and the number of the one or more panels is equal to the integer multiple.

16. The method according to claim 14, wherein: The first length corresponds to a folded configuration, the second length corresponds to an expanded configuration, and the first central segment and the second central segment remain substantially parallel to each other when the table transitions between the folded configuration and the expanded configuration.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein: The first central segment and the second central segment: is positioned within an outer perimeter of the table in the folded configuration, and Positioned at an outer perimeter of the table in the expanded configuration.

18. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: translating a first end segment and a second end segment outwardly from each other, wherein a first foldable side including the first central segment is secured to the first end segment and the second end segment, and a second foldable side including the second central segment is secured to the first end segment and the second end segment, the first foldable side and the second foldable side including the plurality of engagement portions; as well as A plurality of legs are secured to the first end segment and the second end segment.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein: (a) the first foldable side and the second foldable side, and (b) one or both of the first end segment and the second end segment define one or more first registration features, and the one or more panels define one or more second registration features, and wherein placing the one or more panels on the table includes engaging the one or more first registration features with the one or more second registration features such that the one or more panels resist inward movement of the first center segment and the second center segment.

20. The method according to claim 18, wherein: Securing the plurality of legs to the first end segment and the second end segment includes pivoting the plurality of legs outwardly from the first end segment and the second end segment.

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