TABLE LAYOUT FOR AN AIRCRAFT AND PASSENGER CABIN AREA

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a table arrangement suitable for use in a passenger cabin of an aircraft. Furthermore, the invention relates to a passenger cabin area equipped with such a table arrangement.

[0002] A state-of-the-art table arrangement is shown, for example, in

[0003] EP 2 930 109 A1 and US 2017 / 021 931 A1.

[0004] US 2009 / 0 078 169 A1 further shows a table arrangement with the features of the preamble of patent claim 1.

[0005] From US 2009 / 0 078 169 A1, a folding table and a support frame assembly are known. The table comprises two flat parts connected by a hinge element. One of the flat parts is connected to a support frame so that the folded table can be moved into a stowed position within the support frame assembly. The planar sections comprise a proximal section or inner element and a distal section or outer element. The proximal section and the distal section are connected to one another by the hinge element or central element. The hinge element enables the distal section to be rotated into a folded position on the proximal section. When the two planar parts are folded together, a smaller table surface is created in the half-open or partially unfolded position.When the two flat parts are opened along the hinge element, the flat parts and the hinge element form a larger, continuous table in the fully extended position.

[0006] In modern modes of transport, especially passenger aircraft, the optimal use of the space available in a passenger cabin is of great economic importance. For paperwork and the like, crew members typically use small, multi-purpose folding tables, which may be located, for example, in the galley area or near a flight attendant seat.

[0007] The invention is based on the object of providing a table arrangement suitable for use in the passenger cabin of a means of transport, which provides a crew member, for example a purser, with a usable workstation, yet can be stowed away in a space-saving manner when not in use. Furthermore, the invention is based on the object of specifying a passenger cabin area equipped with such a table arrangement.

[0008] This object is achieved by a table arrangement having the features of patent claim 1 and a passenger cabin area having the features of patent claim 13.

[0009] A table arrangement comprises a mounting element that can be fastened to a fastening structure element. For example, the mounting element of the table arrangement can be provided for fastening to a fastening structure element that is designed in the form of a monument suitable for installation in a passenger cabin, in particular an aircraft cabin. The monument can be, for example, an on-board galley, a toilet module, a partition wall, a storage cupboard or a similar monument. The mounting element of the table arrangement defines a mounting plane. When the table arrangement is fastened to a fastening structure element, the mounting plane defined by the mounting element can, for example, extend essentially parallel to a wall surface of the fastening structure element facing the mounting element.

[0010] The table assembly further comprises a first table element connected to the mounting element. The first table element is pivotable relative to the mounting element about a first pivot axis between a stowed position and a use position. In its stowed position, the first table element and its central longitudinal axis extend substantially parallel to the mounting plane defined by the mounting element. In contrast, in its use position, the first table element and its central longitudinal axis extend substantially perpendicular to the mounting plane defined by the mounting element. This allows the first table element to be either stowed away to save space or used as a workstation, as required.

[0011] Finally, the table arrangement comprises a second table element connected to the first table element. The second table element is arranged substantially parallel to the first table element and rotatable relative to the first table element about a rotation axis arranged parallel to the mounting plane in the use position. In the stowed position of the first table element, the rotation axis is arranged perpendicular to the mounting plane. Due to the connection to the first table element, the second table element is moved together with the first table element when the first table element is pivoted between its stowed position and its use position. When the first table element is in its stowed position, the second table element, which is arranged parallel to the first table element, can also be stowed away in a space-saving manner.When the first table element is in its use position, the second table element can be rotated relative to the first table element about the rotation axis to a position that allows both the first and second table elements to be used as workstations. This creates a comparatively spacious workspace.

[0012] Preferably, the second table element is connected to the first table element in the region of an end of the first table element facing away from the first pivot axis. This allows the work surface provided by the first and second table elements to be maximized. In particular, the axis of rotation is also arranged in the region of an end of the first table element facing away from the first pivot axis. The end of the first table element facing away from the first pivot axis is preferably rounded. Additionally or alternatively, an end of the second table element connected to the first table element can also be rounded. A free end of the second table element, in contrast, can have a straight edge.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, a friction force generating element can be provided in the region of the rotation axis, which is designed to minimize unwanted movement of the second table element relative to the first table element about the rotation axis. The friction force generating element is preferably arranged in the region of the rotation axis between the first and second table elements and can be made, for example, of a plastic material, an elastomer material, or the like, in order to counteract unwanted rotation of the second table element about the rotation axis.

[0014] In one embodiment, the friction force generating element is designed to generate a constant, permanent friction force. This friction force can be adjusted once, for example, during assembly of the table assembly, using a screw or the like. If desired, the friction force generating element can also be designed so that the friction force it exerts is variable and manually adjustable. A user of the table assembly can then, for example, first rotate the second table element about the rotation axis with the friction force generating element deactivated and then activate the friction force generating element to hold the second table element in its position.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the table arrangement, the second table element is rotatable relative to the first table element about the rotation axis between an overlay position and a working position. When the second table element is in its overlay position relative to the first table element, the first and second

[0016] Table element is preferably arranged in a position that overlaps one another to the greatest extent, i.e. an area by which one of the two table elements projects beyond the other table element is minimized. A longitudinal axis, in particular the central longitudinal axis of the first table element then preferably extends parallel to a longitudinal axis, in particular the central longitudinal axis of the second table element. When the first table element is in its stowed position, the second table element is preferably arranged in its overlapping position relative to the first table element. This minimizes the space required by the table arrangement. The axis of rotation is perpendicular to the two central longitudinal axes of the first and second table element, in particular at an intersection point of the two central longitudinal axes. The axis of rotation thus intersects the two central longitudinal axes, in particular at the intersection point.

[0017] In contrast, the longitudinal axis of the first table element can form an angle of approximately 80 to 120°, in particular an angle of approximately 90 to 110°, with the longitudinal axis of the second table element when the second table element is in its working position relative to the first table element. The longitudinal axis of the first table element can, for example, extend substantially perpendicular to the mounting plane defined by the mounting element when the first table element is in its use position. This allows for the creation of a particularly comfortable workstation with two "table legs."

[0018] The second table element is displaceable relative to the first table element in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the first table element and the longitudinal axis of the second table element, at least when the first table element is arranged in its stowed position. In particular, the second table element can be connected to the first table element in such a way that it is displaceable relative to the first table element in the direction of the first pivot axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first table element and the longitudinal axis of the second table element when the first table element is arranged in its stowed position.

[0019] The second table element preferably has a smaller area than the first table element. For example, the second table element can have a shorter dimension in the direction of its longitudinal axis than the first table element in the direction of its longitudinal axis. Additionally or alternatively, the second table element can be designed congruently to a section of the first table element, i.e. the second table element can be shaped such that it completely overlies a section of the first table element when it is arranged in its overlay position relative to the first table element. The section of the first table element designed congruently to the second table element preferably forms a section of the first table element facing away from the first pivot axis.

[0020] The first table element can be provided with a first edge protection profile. The first edge protection profile, which can be made of a suitable plastic material, for example, can extend along at least a portion of a peripheral edge of the first table element. The first edge protection profile preferably extends along the entire peripheral edge of the first table element and thus forms a continuous border of a table surface of the first table element. Additionally or alternatively, the second table element can also be provided with a second edge protection profile, which can be made of a suitable plastic material, for example, and preferably extends along at least a portion of a peripheral edge of the second table element. The second edge protection profile preferably extends along the entire peripheral edge of the second table element and thus forms a continuous border of a table surface of the second table element.An edge protection profile protects an edge area of the first and / or second table element from damage.

[0021] Preferably, the first edge protection profile protrudes beyond the table surface of the first table element in a direction parallel to the rotation axis. Additionally or alternatively, the second edge protection profile can also protrude beyond the table surface of the second table element in a direction parallel to the rotation axis. Such a design of the edge protection profile ensures that spilled liquids are retained at least to a certain extent and prevents objects placed on the table arrangement from slipping off.

[0022] The table surface of the first table element can be designed to be slip-resistant. Additionally or alternatively, the table surface of the second table element can also be designed to be slip-resistant. For example, the first table element and / or the second table element can be made of a slip-resistant material or be provided with a slip-resistant coating.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the table arrangement, the second table element is arranged relative to the first table element such that an underside of the second table element faces the table surface of the first table element. This enables particularly simple operation of the table arrangement, in particular when transferring the second table element between its overlay position and its working position, and when transferring the first table element between its use position and its storage position.

[0024] The first table element and the second table element are preferably dimensioned such that a user of the table arrangement can place three DIN A4 sheets of paper on the first table element and the second table element. In particular, the first table element is shaped such that its dimension in the direction of its longitudinal axis is greater than its dimension in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. Additionally or alternatively, the second table element can be shaped such that its dimension in the direction of its longitudinal axis is greater than its dimension in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. The dimensions of the first table element in the direction of its longitudinal axis and perpendicular to its longitudinal axis are preferably dimensioned such that a user of the table arrangement can place two DIN A4 sheets of paper in landscape format on the first table element.The dimensions of the second table element in the direction of its longitudinal axis and perpendicular to its longitudinal axis are preferably such that a user of the table arrangement can place a DIN A4 sheet in landscape format on the second table element.

[0025] Furthermore, a handle can be formed on the first table element. The handle can be grasped by a user when the first table element is to be pivoted between its storage position and its use position. The handle is provided in particular in the region of the end of the first table element facing away from the first pivot axis. For example, the handle can be designed in the form of a recess formed into an underside of the first table element opposite the table surface of the first table element.

[0026] According to the invention, the first pivot axis, about which the first table element can be pivoted between its stowed position and its use position, can be moved between a rest position and an operating position when the first table element is transferred between its stowed position and its use position relative to the mounting element. The movement of the first pivot axis relative to the mounting element can be a translational movement of the first pivot axis in the mounting plane defined by the mounting element. Consequently, when the first table element is transferred between its stowed position and its use position, the end of the first table element facing the first pivot axis not only performs a pivoting movement about the first pivot axis, but also a translational movement in the mounting plane.

[0027] When the table arrangement is mounted ready for operation on a fastening structure element in an aircraft cabin, the first pivot axis is displaced upwards relative to the mounting element when the first table element is transferred from its stowed position to its use position, preferably in the mounting plane defined by the mounting element. Conversely, the first pivot axis is displaced downwards relative to the mounting element when the first table element is transferred from its use position to its stowed position, preferably in the mounting plane defined by the mounting element. The displaceable design of the first pivot axis enables a particularly space-saving embodiment of the table arrangement, since the first table element thereby protrudes significantly less beyond the mounting element in the direction of its longitudinal axis in its stowed position than would be the case with an arrangement having a rigid first pivot axis.

[0028] The table assembly may further comprise a guide device for guiding the movement of the first pivot axis between its rest position and its operating position. For example, the guide device may comprise at least one guide rail in which one end of the first pivot axis is slidably received. Preferably, the guide device comprises two substantially parallel guide rails, each of which slidably receives one end of the first pivot axis. The guide device, i.e., the guide rail(s) of the guide device, is / are preferably attached to the mounting element.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the mounting element of the table assembly comprises two side walls. The side walls of the mounting element can extend substantially perpendicular to the mounting plane defined by the mounting element. Additionally or alternatively, the side walls of the mounting element can extend substantially parallel to one another. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting element can comprise a rear wall. The rear wall preferably extends in the mounting plane defined by the mounting element.

[0030] The table assembly preferably further comprises a locking mechanism for locking the first table element in its use position. The locking mechanism can, for example, comprise a first locking element connected to the mounting element and a second locking element complementary to the first locking element and connected to the first table element. The locking element can, for example, be attached to the first table element in the region of the end of the first table element facing the first pivot axis.

[0031] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the locking mechanism is designed such that it can be activated by applying a compressive force to the table surface of the first table element arranged in its use position. For example, the first and / or second locking elements of the locking mechanism can be arranged and constructed such that they automatically engage with one another as soon as a user applies a corresponding compressive force to the table surface of the first table element arranged in its use position.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, the locking mechanism can be designed so that its activation is associated with an audible sound. For example, the first and / or second locking elements of the locking mechanism can be designed so that a click is audible when the two locking elements engage with each other. A user of the table assembly then receives an audible signal indicating that the first table element is securely in its use position.

[0033] Furthermore, the table assembly can include a manually operable release mechanism for releasing the locking mechanism. The release mechanism can be attached to the mounting element. For example, the release mechanism can include an actuating button connected to the first locking element of the locking mechanism via a connecting element. The actuating button can, for example, be attached to a holding element extending between the two side walls of the mounting element. A manual actuation, such as pressing the actuating button, can be transmitted to the first locking element via the connecting element, thereby releasing the first locking element from the second locking element.

[0034] The table arrangement preferably further comprises a support element, the first end of which is pivotally connected to the mounting element about a second pivot axis. A second end of the support element, in contrast, is preferably pivotally connected to the first table element about a third pivot axis. In particular, the second end of the support element is connected to an underside of the first table element. The support element is therefore pivotable relative to the mounting element and the first table element between a rest position and a support position. In its rest position, which the support element assumes when the first table element is in its stowed position, the support element is arranged substantially parallel to the first table element.In its support position, which the support element assumes when the first table element is in its use position, a longitudinal axis of the first table element forms an angle of approximately 30 to 60° with a longitudinal axis of the support element, in particular an angle of approximately 40 to 50° and particularly preferably an angle of approximately 45°.

[0035] The support element gives the first table element an increased load-bearing capacity, making it more resilient than the second table element. Preferably, the support element is dimensioned so that the first table element can support a load of 5 kg. This allows a user of the table arrangement to place an electronic device, such as a tablet or a lightweight laptop, on the first table element.

[0036] Furthermore, the table arrangement can comprise a securing mechanism for securing the first table element in its stowed position. The securing mechanism can, for example, comprise at least one securing lever, which can be attached to the mounting element so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis. When the securing lever is in a securing position, it preferably rests against an underside of the first table element or the support element opposite the table surface of the first table element, thereby holding the first table element in its stowed position. When the securing lever is in a release position, however, it releases the first table element or the support element so that the first table element can be moved from its stowed position into its use position.To ensure particularly reliable securing of the first table element in its stowed position, the securing mechanism can be equipped with two securing levers. The securing mechanism then meets the requirements for aircraft approval. The two securing levers are preferably attached to the mounting element in such a way that, in their secured position, they rest against the underside of the first table element in the area of two opposing edge regions of the first table element or against the area of two opposing edge regions of the support element.

[0037] A passenger cabin area, in particular an aircraft passenger cabin area, comprises a fastening structural element and a table arrangement as described above. The fastening structural element is designed in particular in the form of a monument, for example a galley, a toilet module, a partition wall of a storage cabinet, or a comparable monument. The mounting element of the table arrangement is attached to the fastening structural element.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment of the passenger cabin area, a seat, in particular a flight attendant seat, is attached to the fastening structural element adjacent to the table arrangement. The table arrangement is then optimally usable by a person sitting on the seat.

[0039] A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, of which Figure 1 shows a table arrangement suitable for use in a passenger cabin, in particular an aircraft passenger cabin, in a front view, wherein a first table element of the table arrangement is in a stowed position, Figure 2 shows the table arrangement according to Figure 1 in a rear view, Figure 3 shows the table arrangement according to Figure 1 in a three-dimensional view, Figure 4 shows the table arrangement according to Figure 3 when transferring the first table element of the table arrangement from its storage position into a use position, Figure 5 shows the table arrangement according to the Figures 3 and 4 shows, wherein the first table element of the table arrangement assumes its use position, while a second table element of the table arrangement is arranged relative to the first table element in an overlay position, Figures 6a and b show the table arrangement according to Figure 5show, wherein the second table element is arranged relative to the first table element in a working position, Figure 7 shows the table arrangement according to Figure 6a with a "transparent" drawn second table element, Figure 8 shows the table arrangement according to the Figures 6a and b in a side view, Figure 9 shows the table arrangement according to Figure 8 in a plan view and Figure 10 a with a table arrangement according to the Figures 1 to 9 equipped aircraft passenger cabin area.

[0040] In the Figures 1 to 9 a table arrangement 10 is shown in various operating states. As particularly shown in Figure 10As can be seen, the table arrangement 10 is intended to be installed in a passenger cabin area, in particular an aircraft passenger cabin area 100. The table arrangement 10 comprises a mounting element 12, which can be fastened to a fastening structure element 102 installed in the aircraft passenger cabin area 100. In the Figure 10 In the illustrated aircraft passenger cabin area 100, the fastening structure element 102 is designed in the form of an aircraft galley, i.e., the mounting element 12 is attached to a side wall of the aircraft galley. Alternatively, however, it is also possible to fix the mounting element 12 and thus the table arrangement 10 to a fastening structure element 102 designed in the form of a partition wall, in the form of a toilet module, in the form of a storage cabinet, or in the form of a comparable monument. Adjacent to the table arrangement 10, a flight attendant seat 104 is attached to the fastening structure element 102.

[0041] How best to Figures 2 and 4 to 7 As can be seen, the mounting element 12 comprises two side walls 14, 16 that extend substantially parallel to one another. The side walls 14, 16 are connected to one another by a rear wall 18. To fasten the mounting element 12 to the fastening structure element 102, the rear wall 18 of the mounting element 12 is fixed to the fastening structure element 102, for example, by screws, rivets, or comparable fastening elements. The mounting element 12 thus defines a mounting plane E that extends substantially perpendicular to the side walls 14, 16 of the mounting element 12. The rear wall 18 of the mounting element 12, in contrast, extends in the mounting plane E.

[0042] Furthermore, the table arrangement 10 comprises a first table element 20 connected to the mounting element 12. The first table element 20 is pivotable relative to the mounting element 12 about a first pivot axis S1 between a Figures 1 to 3 shown stowage position and one in the Figures 5 to 9 The first pivot axis S1 extends essentially parallel to the mounting plane E defined by the mounting element 10.

[0043] In its stowed position, the first table element 20 is arranged substantially parallel to the mounting plane E defined by the mounting element 12. A first table element 20 arranged in its use position, however, extends substantially perpendicular to the mounting plane E defined by the mounting element 12.

[0044] The first table element 20 is shaped such that its dimension in the direction of its central longitudinal axis L1 is greater than its dimension in a direction perpendicular to its central longitudinal axis L1. When the first table element 20 is arranged in its stowed position, the central longitudinal axis L1 of the first table element extends substantially parallel to the mounting plane E defined by the mounting element 12. However, when the first table element 20 is arranged in its use position, the central longitudinal axis L1 of the first table element 20 extends substantially perpendicular to the mounting plane E defined by the mounting element 12.

[0045] The table arrangement 10 further comprises a second table element 22 connected to the first table element 20. In particular, the second table element 22 is connected to the first table element 20 in the region of an end of the first table element 20 facing away from the first pivot axis S1. The axis of rotation D is also arranged in the region of an end of the first table element 20 facing away from the first pivot axis S1. In the embodiment of a table arrangement 10 illustrated in the figures, the end of the first table element 20 facing away from the first pivot axis S1, which is connected to the second table element 22, is rounded. An end of the second table element 22 connected to the first table element 20 is also rounded. In contrast, a free end of the second table element 22 has a straight edge.

[0046] The second table element 22 extends substantially parallel to the first table element 20 and is arranged relative to the first table element 20 in particular such that an underside 24 of the second table element 22 faces a table surface 26 of the first table element 20. Similar to the first table element 20, the second table element 22 is also shaped such that its dimension in the direction of its central longitudinal axis L2 is greater than its dimension in a direction perpendicular to its central longitudinal axis L2.

[0047] The second table element 22 can be pivoted together with the first table element 20 about the first pivot axis S1. This means that when the first table element 20 is in its stowed position, in which the first table element 20 extends substantially parallel to the mounting plane E defined by the mounting element 12, the second table element 22 also extends substantially parallel to the mounting plane E. The central longitudinal axis L2 of the second table element 22 then extends, just like the central longitudinal axis L1 of the first table element 20, substantially parallel to the mounting plane E. In contrast, when the first table element 20 is in its use position, in which the first table element 20 extends substantially perpendicular to the mounting plane E defined by the mounting element 12, the second table element 22 also extends substantially perpendicular to the mounting plane E.

[0048] As best seen from a comparison of the Figure 5 with the Figures 6 to 9 As can be seen, the second table element 22 is rotatable relative to the first element 20 about a rotation axis D. The rotation axis D is arranged in the use position of the table elements 20, 22 parallel to the mounting plane (E). It intersects the two central longitudinal axes L1, L2 at an intersection point and is perpendicular to them. In particular, the second table element 22 can be rotated relative to the first table element 20 about the rotation axis D between a Figure 5 shown overlay position and one shown in the Figures 6 to 9 illustrated working position.

[0049] Furthermore, the second table element 22, at least when the first table element 20 is arranged in its stowed position, is displaceable relative to the first table element 20 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L1 of the first table element 20 and the longitudinal axis L2 of the second table element 20. In particular, the second table element 22 is connected to the first table element 20 in such a way that it is displaceable relative to the first table element 20 in the direction of the first pivot axis S1 parallel to the longitudinal axis L1 of the first table element 20 and the longitudinal axis L2 of the second table element 22 when the first table element 20 is arranged in its stowed position. As a result, the first table element 20, arranged in its stowed position, projects further upwards out of the mounting element 12 than the second table element 22, see Figures 2 and 3 .

[0050] When the second table element 22 is arranged in its overlapping position relative to the first table element 20, the first and second table elements 20, 22 are arranged in a position that maximally overlaps one another, i.e., an area by which one of the two table elements projects beyond the other table element is minimized. In the embodiment of a table arrangement 10 illustrated in the figures, the second table element 22 has a smaller area than the first table element 20. In particular, the second table element 22 has a shorter dimension in the direction of its central longitudinal axis L2 than the first table element 20 in the direction of its central longitudinal axis L1.

[0051] Otherwise, however, the second table element 22 is designed congruently to a section of the first table element 20, i.e. the second table element 22 is shaped such that it completely overlaps a section of the first table element 20 when it is arranged in its overlapping position relative to the first table element 20. The section of the first table element 20 designed congruently to the second table element 22 forms a section of the first table element 20 facing away from the first pivot axis S1, so that only a section of the first table element 20 adjacent to the first pivot axis S1 is not covered by the second table element 22 when the second table element 22 is arranged in its overlapping position relative to the first table element 20.

[0052] When the first table element 20 is in its stowed position, the second table element 22 is always arranged in its overlay position relative to the first table element 20 in order to minimize the space requirement of the table arrangement 10, see Figures 1 to 3 . However, when the first table element 20 is in its use position, the second table element 22 can be in its Figure 5 shown overlay position, in which the central longitudinal axis L2 of the second table element 22 extends substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis L1 of the first table element 20 and substantially perpendicular to the mounting plane E. However, the second table element 22 can also be rotated about the rotation axis D relative to the first table element 20 in its Figures 6 to 9 illustrated working position can be rotated.

[0053] When the second table element 22 is in its working position, the central longitudinal axis L1 of the first table element 20 forms an angle of approximately 80 to 120°, in particular an angle of approximately 90 to 110°, with the central longitudinal axis L2 of the second table element 22. This creates a comfortable workstation with two "table legs" for a person sitting on the flight attendant seat 104.

[0054] In the embodiment of a table arrangement 10 shown in the figures, the first table element 20 and the second table element 22 are dimensioned such that a user of the table arrangement 10 can place three DIN A4 sheets on the first table element 20 and the second table element 22. In particular, the table surface 26 of the first table element 20 is designed to be slip-resistant and suitable for holding two DIN A4 sheets in landscape format, while a table surface 30 of the second table element 22, which is also designed to be slip-resistant, is suitable for holding one DIN A4 sheet in landscape format.

[0055] How best in Figure 6bAs can be seen, the first table element 20 is provided with a first edge protection profile 31a, which extends along the entire peripheral edge of the first table element 20 and thus forms a continuous border of the table surface 26 of the first table element 20. Accordingly, the second table element 22 is provided with a second edge protection profile 31b, which extends along the entire peripheral edge of the second table element 22 and thus forms a continuous border of the table surface 30 of the second table element 22. The edge protection profiles 31a, 31b are each made of a suitable plastic material and protect the edge regions of the table elements 20, 22 from damage.

[0056] Furthermore, the first edge protection profile 31a protrudes beyond the table surface 26 of the first table element 20 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis D, while the second edge protection profile 31b protrudes beyond the table surface 30 of the second table element 22 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis D. The edge protection profiles 31a, 31b thus prevent spilled liquids from dripping unhindered from the table surfaces 26, 30 of the table elements 20, 22 and secure objects placed on the table surfaces 26, 30, such as papers, at least to a certain extent, from slipping off.

[0057] In the area of the rotation axis D there is a Figure 7 illustrated friction force generating element 28 is provided, which is designed to minimize undesired movement of the second table element 22 relative to the first table element 20 about the rotation axis D. This is particularly important when the table arrangement 10, as in Figure 10shown, is installed in an aircraft passenger cabin and is intended for use during flight operations. In particular, the friction force generating element 28 is arranged in the region of the rotation axis D between the first table element 20 and the second table element 22 and can be made, for example, of a plastic material, an elastomer material, or the like.

[0058] The friction force generating element 28 is designed here to generate a constant, permanent friction force, which is adjusted during assembly of the table assembly 10 by means of a screw or the like. However, the friction force generating element 28 can also be designed such that the friction force it exerts is variable and manually adjustable. A user of the table assembly 10 can then, for example, first rotate the second table element 22 from its overlapping position about the rotation axis D into its working position with the friction force generating element 28 deactivated and then activate the friction force generating element 28 to hold the second table element 22 in its working position relative to the first table element 20.

[0059] How best to Figures 1 , 3 and 4As can be seen, a handle 32 is formed on the first table element 20. In particular, the handle 32 is arranged in the region of the end of the first table element 20 facing away from the first pivot axis S1 and is designed in the form of a recess that is formed into an underside 34 of the first table element 20 opposite the table surface 26 of the first table element 20. The handle 32 can be gripped by a user when the first table element 20 is to be pivoted together with the second table element 22 between its storage position and its use position.

[0060] The table assembly 10 further comprises a support element 36, the first end of which is pivotally connected to the mounting element 12 about a second pivot axis S2. The second pivot axis S2 extends substantially parallel to the first pivot axis S1 and parallel to the mounting plane E defined by the mounting element 12. When the table assembly 10, as in Figure 10 shown, is mounted in the aircraft passenger cabin area 100, the second pivot axis S2 is fixed to the mounting element 12 in a region of the mounting element 12 near the ground.

[0061] A second end of the support element 36, however, is pivotally connected to the first table element 20 about a third pivot axis S3. In particular, the second end of the support element 36 is connected to the underside 34 of the first table element 20, so that the support element 36 can be pivoted relative to the mounting element 12 and the first table element 20 between a Figures 1 and 3 illustrated resting position and one in the Figures 5 to 9shown support position. In its rest position, which the support element 36 assumes when the first table element 20 is in its stowed position, the support element 36 is arranged substantially parallel to the first table element 20. In its support position, which the support element 36 assumes when the first table element 20 is in its use position, however, the longitudinal axis L1 of the first table element 20 forms an angle of approximately 45° with a longitudinal axis L3 of the support element 36.

[0062] The support element 36 provides the first table element 20 with an increased load-bearing capacity, so that the first table element 20 can bear a greater load than the second table element 22. In the embodiment shown here, the table arrangement 10 can generally bear a load of 5 kg.

[0063] The table assembly 10 includes a securing mechanism 38 for securing the first table element 20 in its stowed position. The securing mechanism 38 includes two securing levers 40, 42, each of which is mounted on the side walls 14, 16 of the mounting element 12 so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis. When the securing levers 40, 42 are in a securing position, they rest against opposite edge portions of the support element 36 arranged in its rest position and thereby hold the support element 36 in its rest position, see in particular Figure 1. This also holds the first table element 20 in its stowed position. However, when the locking levers 40, 42 are in a release position, they release the support element 36 and consequently the first table element 20, so that the support element 36 can be moved into its support position, while the first table element 20 can be moved into its use position, see in particular Figures 3 to 5 .

[0064] As best seen from a comparison of the Figures 3 to 5 As can be seen from the drawing, the first pivot axis S1 is arranged between a pivot axis in the case of a transfer of the first table element 20 between its storage position and its use position relative to the mounting element 12 Figure 3 shown resting position and one in Figure 5illustrated operating position. The movement of the first pivot axis S1 relative to the mounting element 12 is a translational movement of the first pivot axis S1 in the mounting plane E defined by the mounting element 12. When the first table element 20 is transferred between its stowed position and its use position, the end of the first table element 20 facing the first pivot axis S1 consequently performs not only a pivoting movement about the first pivot axis S1, but also a translational movement in the mounting plane E.

[0065] The translational movement of the first pivot axis S1 in the mounting plane E is guided by a guide device 44. The guide device 44 comprises two essentially parallel guide rails, in each of which one end of the first pivot axis S1 is slidably received. The guide device 44, i.e., the guide rails of the guide device 44, is / are attached to the mounting element 12.

[0066] If the table arrangement 10, as in Figure 10shown, is mounted ready for operation on the fastening structure element 102, the first pivot axis S1 is displaced upwards relative to the mounting element 12 when the first table element 20 is transferred from its stowed position to its use position in the mounting plane E. Conversely, the first pivot axis S1 is displaced downwards relative to the mounting element 12 when the first table element 20 is transferred from its use position to its stowed position in the mounting plane E.

[0067] In addition, the table assembly 10 includes a locking mechanism 46 for locking the first table element 20 in its use position. The locking mechanism 46 includes a first locking element 48 connected to the mounting element 12, see in particular Figure 4. Furthermore, the locking mechanism 46 comprises a second locking element (not visible in the figures) that is complementary to the first locking element 48 and connected to the first table element 20, which second locking element is attached to the first table element 20 in the region of the end of the first table element 20 facing the first pivot axis S1.

[0068] The locking mechanism 46 is designed in such a way that it can be locked by applying a pressure force (illustrated by the arrow in Figure 5 ) onto the table surface 26 of the first table element 20 arranged in its use position. In particular, the first and second locking elements 48 of the locking mechanism 46 are arranged and constructed such that they automatically engage with one another as soon as a user applies a corresponding pressure force to the table surface 26 of the first table element 20 arranged in its use position. Figure 5In the arrangement shown, in which the first table element 20 is still superimposed by the second table element 20, the pressure force for activating the locking mechanism 46 is transmitted via the table surface 30 of the second table element 22 to the table surface 26 of the first table element 20.

[0069] Furthermore, the locking mechanism 46 is designed such that its activation is associated with an audible sound. In particular, the first and second locking elements 48 of the locking mechanism 46 are constructed such that a clicking sound is audible when the two locking elements 48 engage with each other.

[0070] Finally, the table assembly 10 includes a manually operable release mechanism 50 for releasing the locking mechanism 46. The release mechanism 50 is attached to the mounting element and includes an actuating button 52, which is connected to the first locking element 48 of the locking mechanism 46 via a connecting element 54. The actuating button 52 is attached to a holding element 56 that extends between the two side walls 14, 16 of the mounting element 12. When a manual pressure force is exerted on the actuating button 52, this pressure force is transmitted via the connecting element 54 to the first locking element 48. This releases the first locking element 48 from the second locking element, so that the first table element 20 can be pivoted from its use position into its storage position.

Claims

1. Table arrangement (10) for an aircraft having: - a mounting element (12) which can be fastened to a fastening structural element (102) and defines a mounting plane (E), - a first table element (20) connected to the mounting element (12), wherein the first table element (20) can be pivoted relative to the mounting element (12) about a first pivot axis (S1) between a stowage position, in which the first table element (20) and its centre longitudinal axis (L1) extend substantially parallel to the mounting plane (E) defined by the mounting element (12), and a use position, in which the first table element (20) and its centre longitudinal axis (L1) extend substantially perpendicularly with respect to the mounting plane (E) defined by the mounting element (12), and - a second table element (22) connected to the first table element (20), wherein the second table element (22) is arranged substantially parallel to the first table element (20) and can be rotated relative to the first table element (20) about a rotational axis (D) which, in the use position, is arranged parallel to the mounting plane (E), wherein the first pivot axis (S1) can be moved between a rest position and an operating position in the case of a transfer of the first table element (20) between its stowage position and its use position relative to the mounting element (12), characterized in that - the rotational axis (D) is arranged, in the stowage position, perpendicularly with respect to the mounting plane (E), and - the second table element (22), at least when the first table element (20) is arranged in its stowage position, can be displaced relative to the first table element (20) in a direction parallel to the centre longitudinal axis (L1) of the first table element (20) and the longitudinal axis (L2) of the second table element (22).

2. Table arrangement (10) according to Claim 1, wherein the second table element (22) is connected to the first table element (20) in the region of one end of the first table element (20) facing away from the first pivot axis (S1) and / or wherein, in the region of the rotational axis (D), a frictional force generating element (28) is provided which is configured to minimize an unwanted movement of the second table element (22) relative to the first table element (20) about the rotational axis (D).

3. Table arrangement (10) according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the second table element (22) can be rotated relative to the first table element (20) about the rotational axis (D) between a superimposed position, in which the first and the second table element (22) are arranged in a maximum superimposed position with respect to each other, and a working position, in which the longitudinal axis (L1) of the first table element (20) forms, with the longitudinal axis (L2) of the second table element (22), an angle of approximately 80 to 120°, in particular an angle of approximately 90 to 110°.

4. Table arrangement (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 3, wherein: - the second table element (22) has a smaller surface area than the first table element (20), and / or - the second table element (22) is of congruent configuration with respect to a portion of the first table element (20), and / or - the first table element (20) is provided with a first edge protection profile (31a) which extends along at least one portion of a peripheral edge of the first table element (20) and / or projects in a direction parallel to the rotational axis (D) above a table surface (26) of the first table element (20); and / or - the second table element (22) is provided with a second edge protection profile (31b) which extends along at least one portion of a peripheral edge of the second table element (22) and / or projects in a direction parallel to the rotational axis (D) above a table surface (30) of the second table element (22); and / or - the table surface (26) of the first table element (20) is designed to prevent slipping; and / or - the table surface (30) of the second table element (22) is designed to prevent slipping.

5. Table arrangement (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein the second table element (22) is arranged relative to the first table element (20) in such a way that a lower side (24) of the second table element (22) is facing a table surface (26) of the first table element (20), and / or wherein the first table element (20) and the second table element (22) are dimensioned in such a way that a user of the table arrangement (10) can place three DIN A4 sheets on the first table element (20) and the second table element (22), and / or wherein the first table element (20) is shaped in such a way that its dimension in the direction of its longitudinal axis (L1) is greater than its dimension in a direction perpendicular with respect to its longitudinal axis (L1), and / or wherein the second table element (22) is shaped in such a way that its dimension in the direction of its longitudinal axis (L2) is greater than its dimension in a direction perpendicular with respect to its longitudinal axis (L2), and / or wherein a handle (32) is formed on the first table element (20).

6. Table arrangement (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, further comprising a guide device (44) for guiding the movement of the first pivot axis (S1) between its rest position and its operating position.

7. Table arrangement (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 6, wherein the mounting element (12) comprises two side walls (14, 16) which extend substantially perpendicularly with respect to the mounting plane (E) defined by the mounting element (12) and / or substantially parallel to each other, and / or wherein the mounting element (12) comprises a rear wall (18) which extends substantially in the mounting plane (E) defined by the mounting element (12).

8. Table arrangement (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 7, which further comprises a locking mechanism (46) for locking the first table element (20) in its use position.

9. Table arrangement (10) according to Claim 8, wherein the locking mechanism (46) is designed in such a way that it can be activated by applying a pressure force to a table surface (26) of the first table element (20) arranged in its use position, and / or wherein the locking mechanism (46) is designed in such a way that its activation is linked to an audible noise.

10. Table arrangement (10) according to Claim 8 or 9, further comprising a manually actuable release mechanism (50) for releasing the locking mechanism (46).

11. Table arrangement (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 10, which further comprises a support element (36), the first end of which is connected to the mounting element (12) such that it can be pivoted about a second pivot axis (S2), and the second end of which is connected to the first table element (20) such that it can be pivoted about a third pivot axis (S3), with the result that the support element (36) can be pivoted relative to the mounting element (12) and the first table element (20) between a rest position, in which the support element (36) is arranged substantially parallel to the first table element (20), and a support position, in which a longitudinal axis (L1) of the first table element (20) forms, with a longitudinal axis (L3) of the support element (36), an angle of approximately 30 to 60°, in particular an angle of approximately 40 to 50°, and, in particular, preferably an angle of approximately 45°.

12. Table arrangement (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 11, which further comprises a securing mechanism (38) for securing the first table element (20) in its stowage position.

13. Passenger cabin region (100) comprising: - a fastening structural element (102), and - a table arrangement (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 12, wherein the mounting element (12) of the table arrangement (10) is fastened to the fastening structural element (102).

14. Passenger cabin region (100) according to Claim 13, wherein a flight attendant seat (104) is fastened to the fastening structural element (102) adjacently with respect to the table arrangement (10).