Foldable table
Patent Information
- Application Number
- EP2023731202
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-06-08
- Filing Date
- 2023-06-06
- Publication Date
- 2025-04-16
AI Technical Summary
Existing folding tables are complicated and time-consuming to fold and unfold due to the large number of independently movable components that rotate around different axes, making the process cumbersome.
A collapsible table design featuring an actuating linkage that couples the table top to pivotable legs, allowing the table top to pivot into a rest state, which automatically folds the legs into their folded position, simplifying the folding and unfolding process by linking the movements of the table top and legs.
The design enables easy and quick conversion between the unfolded and folded states, improving usability and reducing the effort required for folding and unfolding, while also making transportation and storage more convenient.
Smart Images
Figure 1.1
Abstract
Description
[0001] Foldable table
[0002] The present invention relates to a collapsible table comprising a table top having a substantially horizontal surface area in an operating state, and a plurality of table legs attached to the table top. The table top can be pivoted relative to the table legs from the operating state about a first axis of rotation into a rest state, in which the table top has a surface area that deviates from the horizontal surface area. At least one of the table legs can be pivoted from an extended position about a second axis of rotation that deviates from the first axis of rotation into a folded position.
[0003] Tables of the type mentioned above are known from the prior art, for example, as so-called foldable standing or bistro tables. These known tables comprise a tabletop and four table legs. The tabletop is attached to two opposite, fixed, non-pivoting table legs so that it can pivot about a first horizontal axis of rotation. Two other opposite table legs can each pivot about their own second axis of rotation between an extended and a folded position relative to the fixed table legs. In their extended position, the pivoting table legs are attached to the underside of the tabletop in its operating state via a releasable locking connection. After the locking connection is released, the pivoting table legs can be pivoted about their respective second axis of rotation into their folded position, where they rest laterally against the fixed table legs.The tabletop can then be pivoted around the first pivot axis into its resting position, with the tabletop then assuming a nearly vertical surface and resting laterally against the table legs. The folded table, with the tabletop in its resting position and the pivoting table legs in their folded position, can be stored in a particularly space-saving manner.
[0004] A disadvantage of known folding tables is that folding them is complicated and time-consuming. Based on the prior art described above, the present invention is therefore based on the object of designing and developing a table of the type mentioned above so that it can be folded – and, of course, unfolded again – particularly easily and time-savingly.
[0005] To achieve this object, a table having the features of claim 1 is proposed. In particular, starting from the table of the type mentioned at the outset, it is proposed that the table have an actuating linkage which couples the table top to the at least one pivotable table leg in such a way that a transition of the table top from the operating state to the rest state automatically pivots the at least one pivotable table leg from the unfolded position to the folded position.
[0006] It was recognized that the considerable effort required to fold known tables is a result of the large number of independently movable components. In particular, the large number of components that can be pivoted relative to each other and independently of each other about various axes of rotation makes folding the table complicated and time-consuming. This is significantly simplified and accelerated with the present invention.
[0007] According to the invention, it is proposed that the table top can no longer be pivoted about the first axis of rotation independently of the pivotable table legs, or conversely, the pivotable table legs can no longer be pivoted about the second axis of rotation independently of the table top. This allows the table to be folded by simply pivoting the table top from the operating state to the rest state, since the pivotable table legs automatically pivot into their folded position. A further advantage of the invention is that the table top, in the rest state, holds the pivotable table legs in their folded position. This significantly simplifies the transport of the folded table.
[0008] In a corresponding manner, the invention also has the stated features and advantages for unfolding the table, ie for pivoting the table top about the first axis of rotation from the rest state to the operating state and for pivoting the pivotable table legs from the folded into the unfolded position.
[0009] It is proposed that the deviating surface extension of the table top in the resting state be a substantially vertical surface extension. The details of horizontal and vertical surface extension refer to the case where the table stands with its table legs on a level floor with a substantially horizontal surface extension. The table legs rest on the floor via contact points formed at their distal ends. The contact points can be height-adjustable to enable the table to stand firmly even on uneven floor. Furthermore, it is conceivable that friction-preventing and / or damping elements are arranged at the contact points. Finally, it is also conceivable that rollers or wheels, preferably swivel casters rotatable about vertical steering axes, are arranged at the contact points of the table legs.According to an advantageous development of the invention, it is proposed that the actuating linkage for each pivotable table leg comprises an actuating rod assigned to the pivotable table leg, which is articulated on the one hand to the table top at a distance from the first axis of rotation and on the other hand to the pivotable table leg at a distance from the second axis of rotation. The articulation of the actuating rod on the one hand to the table top, preferably to an underside of the table top, eccentrically to the first axis of rotation and on the other hand to the associated pivotable table leg eccentrically to the second axis of rotation ensures that a transition of the table top from the operating state to the rest state automatically also pivots the associated pivotable table leg from the unfolded position to the folded position.This allows the table to be easily and quickly moved from the unfolded position for its intended use to the folded position for transport and storage. Accordingly, when the tabletop is moved from the idle state to the operating state, the associated pivoting table leg automatically pivots from the folded position to the extended position. This allows the table to be easily and quickly moved from the folded position for transport and storage to the unfolded position for its intended use.
[0010] The distance from the first axis of rotation at which the operating rod is hinged to the table top does not have to be the same as the distance from the second axis of rotation at which the operating rod is hinged to the associated pivotable table leg. Preferably, the distance at which the operating rod is hinged to the table top is greater than the distance at which the operating rod is hinged to the associated pivotable table leg. This results in the pivoting movement of the table top being greater than the pivoting movement of the pivotable table legs. The pivoting movement of the table top between the operating state with the essentially horizontal surface extension and the rest state with the, for example, essentially vertical surface extension can be, for example, 90°. At the same time, the pivoting movement of a pivotable table leg between the unfolded position and the folded position is, for example, only 45°.
[0011] To set and adjust the relationship of the table top to the pivoting table legs, it is proposed that the or each actuating rod of the at least one pivoting table leg be adjustable in length. This can be achieved, for example, by designing the actuating rod as a threaded rod. The actuating rod can, for example, be designed in two parts, with one end of a first rod part of the actuating rod having an external thread and a corresponding end of another rod part of the actuating rod having an internal thread corresponding to the external thread. The two rod parts are arranged coaxially along the longitudinal axis of the actuating rod such that the threads formed at the ends of the rod parts engage and the rod parts can be screwed together to a greater or lesser extent.
[0012] In an alternative embodiment, it would also be conceivable for the operating rod to be hinged to the table top and / or the associated pivoting table leg via one or more suitable joints. Corresponding threads can be formed at at least one end of the operating rod and on the joint(s). The operating rod can be attached to the joint(s) via the thread. At the same time, the operating rod can be screwed to the joint(s) to a greater or lesser extent, allowing the length of the operating rod to be varied or adjusted.
[0013] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that a first end of the or each actuating rod of the at least one pivotable table leg is articulated to the tabletop, preferably to an underside of the tabletop, by means of a pivot or fork joint, a universal joint, or a ball joint. These joints have one (pivot or fork joint), two (universal joint), or three (ball joint) degrees of freedom. Other joints or no joint at all can also be used. If the actuating rod is made of an elastically deformable material, for example, the number of degrees of freedom or movements of the joint used can be reduced.
[0014] Advantageously, the fork, ball, or universal joint is mounted on the tabletop so that it can rotate in a plane that runs parallel to the surface of the tabletop. The fork, ball, or universal joint is thus mounted on the tabletop so that it can rotate about a rotation axis, with the rotation axis running perpendicular to a surface of the tabletop. This prevents mechanical stress in the operating rod and / or the joints during folding or unfolding of the table.
[0015] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that a second end of the or each actuating rod is articulated to the pivotable table leg associated with it by means of a fork joint, a universal joint or a ball joint.
[0016] The first axis of rotation preferably has a horizontal extension parallel to the surface extension of the table top. Since the table top is pivotable about the first axis of rotation, the first axis of rotation runs parallel to the surface extension of the table top both in the operating state of the table top and in the rest state of the table top. The first axis of rotation preferably runs at a distance from a geometric center of gravity of the table top.
[0017] Advantageously, the at least one pivotable table leg pivots about the second pivot axis during the transition from the extended position to the folded position in the direction of the tabletop in the resting state. This reduces the table's footprint and makes it easier to transport, e.g., because it now fits through doors or narrow hallways. Furthermore, the folded table is easier to store because it requires less space. Preferably, the second pivot axis runs essentially perpendicular to the first pivot axis. With a horizontal first pivot axis, the second pivot axis therefore runs vertically.
[0018] It is proposed that the at least one pivoting table leg be assigned a support surface on which the underside of the tabletop rests in its operating state. Damping elements can be arranged on the support surfaces to enable the table to unfold silently and prevent scratching of the underside of the tabletop.
[0019] According to another preferred embodiment, it is proposed that the at least one pivotable table leg and / or the table top be assigned securing means, for example in the form of a screw, a snap or latching lock, or a bayonet lock, which are designed to secure the table top in its operating state on the or each support surface. The securing means can be integrated into the support surfaces or formed separately from them. In particular, it is proposed that an actuating element of the securing means be arranged on the at least one pivotable table leg and a corresponding opening be arranged on the underside of the table top, with which opening the actuating element can releasably engage. When the actuating element engages with the corresponding opening, the table top is secured in the operating state. The engagement can be automatic, for example.Spring-loaded, as soon as the table top reaches its operating state, or by actuating the actuating element. When the engagement is released by actuating the actuating element, the locking mechanism is released and the table top can pivot into its resting position.
[0020] Advantageously, the at least one pivotable table leg is assigned a stop which limits a pivoting movement of the pivotable table leg from the unfolded position to the folded position. The stop is preferably assigned to one or more of the non-pivoting table legs or is at least indirectly formed on them. When the table is folded, corresponding stop surfaces assigned to one or more of the non-pivoting table legs run against the stop(s). By limiting the pivoting movement of the pivotable table legs, the pivoting movement of the table top is also limited due to the coupling via the operating linkage. Furthermore, due to the coupling of the pivotable table legs via the operating linkage and the table top, it is sufficient if such a stop is assigned to only one of several pivotable table legs.Preferably, however, all pivoting table legs are assigned such a stop.
[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, it is proposed that the table has a plurality of pivotable table legs, preferably two pivotable table legs, and / or the table has a plurality of non-pivoting table legs, preferably two pivotable table legs. Such a table preferably has four table legs, of which two table legs are fixed or non-pivoting, and two other table legs are pivotable about the second axis of rotation.
[0022] It is particularly preferred if two adjacent table legs are pivotable and two other, likewise adjacent, table legs are fixed. When the table is folded, the two fixed table legs thus remain in their unchangeable extended position, while the two pivotable table legs pivot into the folded position. In this case, the distance in the circumferential direction between the two pivotable table legs is preferably increased, while the distance in the circumferential direction of the pivotable table legs to the adjacent fixed table legs is reduced. When the table is folded, the pivotable table legs fold towards the fixed table legs, thereby significantly reducing the table's footprint.At the same time, the extended fixed table legs ensure that the table has a sufficiently large base even when folded, allowing it to stand on its own on the floor. This is particularly advantageous if casters or wheels are installed where the table legs meet the floor, as the table can then be easily and quickly moved to a desired position on the floor, even when folded. There's no risk of the folded table tipping over due to its sufficiently large base.
[0023] When using multiple pivoting table legs, it is advantageous if the pivoting table legs can pivot from their extended position to their retracted position around the same second axis of rotation. This allows for a particularly compact table design with a very small number of components and correspondingly low assembly effort.
[0024] It is also particularly preferred if, when the pivoting table legs are folded in, the contact points of the pivoting table legs with the floor on which the table stands are arranged on the same side of the tabletop in its resting state, as viewed from above. Preferably, the contact points of the fixed table legs are then arranged on the opposite side of the tabletop in its resting state. This configuration, with the tabletop arranged between the contact points of the table legs in the resting state, ensures a balanced and stable stand of the folded table.
[0025] Further features and advantages of the present invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. It is noted that individual features shown in the figures may also be essential to the invention on their own, even if this is not shown in the figures and is not expressly mentioned in the following description. Furthermore, it is noted that the features shown in the figures may be combined with one another in any desired manner, even if such a combination is not shown in the figures and is not expressly mentioned in the description. They show:
[0026] Figure 1 shows a table according to the invention in a folded state in a perspective view obliquely from above; Figure 2 shows the table from Figure 1 in an unfolded state in a perspective view from the side;
[0027] Figure 3 shows an enlarged section of the table from Fig. 1;
[0028] Figure 4 shows two tables arranged side by side from Figure 1 in a side view; and
[0029] Figure 5 shows the tables from Fig. 4 in a view from above.
[0030] Figs. 1 and 2 show an example of a collapsible table 2 according to the invention in a folded state (see Fig. 1) and in an unfolded state (see Fig. 2), respectively. The table 2 comprises a table top 4, which in an operating state (see Fig. 2) has a substantially horizontal surface extension. Furthermore, the table 2 comprises a plurality of table legs 6, 8 attached to the table top 4.
[0031] In the example, the tabletop 4 is designed as a round tabletop. Of course, it can also have any other shape, for example, oval, square, or rectangular. Furthermore, the tabletop 4 can be made of any material, including wood, metal, glass, and / or stone, as well as any composite materials.
[0032] The table top 4 can be pivoted relative to the table legs 6, 8 from the operating state about a first rotation axis 10 into a rest state (see Fig. 1), in which the table top 4 has a surface extension that deviates from the horizontal surface extension. In the example shown, the deviated surface extension is a substantially vertical surface extension. However, the deviated surface extension can also be any other inclined surface extension.
[0033] In the example shown, two table legs 6 can be pivoted from an extended position (see Fig. 2) of the unfolded table 2 about a second axis of rotation 12, which deviates from the first axis of rotation 10, into a folded position (see Fig. 1) of the folded table 2. The two pivotable table legs 6 are adjacent table legs. In the example, both table legs 6 pivot about the same second axis of rotation 12. However, it would also be conceivable for each pivotable table leg 6 to pivot about its own second axis of rotation 12. Several second axes of rotation 12 preferably run parallel to one another.
[0034] Furthermore, the table 2 comprises two fixed or non-pivoting table legs 8. In total, the table 2 therefore has four table legs 6, 8. The two non-pivoting table legs 8 are also adjacent table legs.
[0035] In the example shown, the fixed table legs 8 are fastened to at least one support element 14, which in the example has a U-shape. The first axis of rotation 10 is formed at the distal ends of the U-shaped support element 14. The axis of rotation 10 is formed, for example, by a rod 16 fastened to the distal ends of the U-shaped support element 14, the ends of which are guided in bearing elements 18 (or joint blocks) fastened to the table top 4. In this example, the bearing elements 18 are not fastened directly to the table top 4, but indirectly, namely initially to a fastening plate 20, which in turn is fastened to the underside of the table top 4, e.g. by means of screws 22 or in some other way.
[0036] A kinematic reversal would of course also be possible, in which case the bearing elements 18 would be attached directly or indirectly to the support element 14 and the rod 16 to the table top 4.
[0037] The table legs 6, 8 are essentially L-shaped. A first leg 6a, 8a of the L-shape runs approximately parallel to the second rotation axis 12. A second leg 6b, 8b of the L-shape extends radially outward from a central region of the table 2. The two legs 6a, 6b and 8a, 8b are at an angle of approximately 90° to each other. Preferably, they are at an angle greater than 90° to each other, so that the second legs 6b, 8b of the table legs 6, 8 extend radially outward and diagonally downward from the central region of the table 2.
[0038] At the distal ends of the table legs 6, 8, contact points 24 are formed, via which the table legs 6, 8 stand on a preferably flat floor 26. The contact points 24 can have rollers 28, each of which is rotatable about its axis of rotation 30 and with which the table 2 can be rolled across a floor. At least some of the rollers 28 can be designed as swivel rollers, each of which is freely rotatable not only about its axis of rotation 30, but also about a substantially vertical steering axis 32. At least one of the rollers 28 can have an actuatable braking element 29, which, when actuated, prevents, blocks, or brakes rotation of the roller 28 about its axis of rotation 30. In the example shown, only the swivel rollers 28 arranged on the fixed table legs 8 have a braking element 29.
[0039] The pivoting of the pivotable table legs 6 about the second axis of rotation 12 occurs relative to the table top 4 or the fixed table legs 8. For this purpose, bearing elements are attached to the fixed table legs 8 or to a component attached thereto, e.g., to the U-shaped support element 14. Corresponding tabs 34, each with a guide opening, are formed on the pivotable table legs 6. It is conceivable for a guide pin to be formed on the bearing element, which is inserted through the guide opening of the tabs 34. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the bearing elements to also have a guide opening, and for separate guide pins to be inserted through the guide openings of the bearing elements and the tabs 34. In any case, the pivotable table legs 8 are articulated to the fixed table legs 6 so as to be pivotable about the second axis of rotation 12.
[0040] The invention proposes that the table 2 has an actuating linkage 36 which couples the table top 4 to the pivotable table legs 6 in such a way that a transition of the table top 4 from the operating state (cf. Fig. 2) to the rest state (cf. Fig. 1) automatically pivots the pivotable table legs 6 from the unfolded position (cf. Fig. 2) to the folded position (cf. Fig. 1).
[0041] The table top 4 can therefore no longer be pivoted about the first axis of rotation 10 independently of the pivotable table legs 6 or, conversely, the pivotable table legs 6 can no longer be pivoted about the second axis of rotation 12 independently of the table top 4.
[0042] In a corresponding manner, the invention also has the stated features and advantages for unfolding the table 2, ie for pivoting the table top 4 about the first axis of rotation 10 from the rest state (cf. Fig. 1) into the operating state (cf. Fig. 2) and for pivoting the pivotable table legs 6 from the folded position (cf. Fig. 1) into the unfolded position (cf. Fig. 2).
[0043] The actuating linkage 36 preferably comprises an actuating rod 38 for each pivotable table leg 6, which is assigned to the pivotable table leg 6. This actuating rod is articulated on the one hand at a distance 40 (cf. Fig. 3) from the first axis of rotation 10 on the table top 4 or the fastening plate 20 and on the other hand at a distance 42 (cf. Fig. 3) from the second axis of rotation 12 on the pivotable table leg 6. The articulation of the actuating rod 38 on the one hand eccentrically to the first axis of rotation 10 on the table top 4 and on the other hand eccentrically to the second axis of rotation 12 on the associated pivotable table leg 6 causes a transition of the table top 4 from the operating state (cf. Fig. 2) to the rest state (cf. Fig. 1) to automatically pivot the associated pivotable table leg 6 from the unfolded position to the folded position.
[0044] The distance 40 from the first rotation axis 10, at which the actuating rod 38 is articulated to the table top 4, can, but does not have to, be the same as the distance 42 from the second rotation axis 12, at which the actuating rod 38 is articulated to the associated pivotable table leg 6. Preferably, the distance 40, at which the actuating rod 38 is articulated to the table top 4, is greater than the distance 42, at which the actuating rod 38 is articulated to the associated pivotable table leg 6. This results in the pivoting movement of the table top 4 being greater than the pivoting movement of the pivotable table legs 6. The pivoting movement of the table top 4 between the operating state with the essentially horizontal surface extension and the rest state with the essentially vertical surface extension can be, for example, 90°.At the same time, the pivoting movement of a pivoting table leg 6 between the unfolded position and the folded position is, for example, only 45°.
[0045] A lever element 48 is rotatably mounted on each upper distal end of the pivotable table legs 6. Lever elements 48 extend substantially radially outward from the second axis of rotation 12, preferably congruent with the second limbs 6b of the table legs 6. Pivoting the lever elements 48 about the second axis of rotation 12 thus inevitably leads to a corresponding pivoting of the table legs 6 about the axis of rotation 12. The actuating rods 38 are articulated to the lever elements 48 at a distance 42 from the second axis of rotation 12.
[0046] To set and adjust the relationship between the table top 4 and the pivoting table legs 6, it is proposed that the actuating rods 38 be adjustable in length. In the example shown, this is achieved by the actuating rods 38 being each hinged to the table top 4 or to the associated pivoting table leg 6 via one or more suitable joints 44, 46. Corresponding threads are formed on at least one end of the actuating rods 38 and on the joint(s) 44, 46. The actuating rod 38 can be attached to the joint(s) 44, 46 via the thread. At the same time, the actuating rod 38 can be screwed to a greater or lesser extent to the joint(s) 44, 46, whereby the length of the actuating rod 38 can be varied or adjusted.
[0047] A first end of each of the actuating rods 38 is connected to the table top 4, preferably to the underside of the table top 4, by means of a first joint 44. The first joint 44 is designed, for example, as a pivot or fork joint, a universal joint, or a ball joint. In the example shown, the first joint 44 is designed as a universal joint.
[0048] The first joint 44 is preferably mounted on the table top 4 or on the mounting plate 20 in a plane that runs parallel to the surface of the table top 4. Thus, the joint 44 is mounted on the table top 4 so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis, wherein the rotation axis runs perpendicular to a surface of the table top 4. This prevents mechanical stresses in the actuating rod 38 and / or the joints 44, 46 during the folding or unfolding of the table 2.
[0049] A second end of the actuating rods 38 is each connected to the respective pivotable table leg 6 by means of a second joint 46. The second joint 46 is designed, for example, as a rotary or fork joint, a universal joint, or a ball joint. In the example shown, the second joint 46 is designed as a ball joint.
[0050] It would be conceivable to manufacture the actuating rods 38 from an elastically deformable material. Deforming the actuating rods 38 could reduce stresses that may occur in the actuating rods 38 and / or the joints 44, 46 during folding or unfolding of the table 2. Under certain circumstances, this could even allow the use of simpler and more compact joints 44, 46 with a smaller number of degrees of freedom or a smaller number of movements.
[0051] The first axis of rotation 10 preferably has a horizontal extension parallel to the surface extension of the table top 4. The first axis of rotation 10 preferably runs at a distance from a geometric center of gravity 48 of the table top 4. The axes of rotation 10, 12 preferably run at a distance and transversely, particularly preferably perpendicularly, to one another. When the pivotable table legs 6 pivot about the second axis of rotation 12 during the transition from the unfolded position (see Fig. 2) to the folded position (see Fig. 1), they move onto the table top 4 in the rest state. This reduces the footprint of the table 2 and makes it easier to transport, e.g., because it now fits through doors or narrow hallways. In addition, the folded table 2 is easier to store because it requires less space or footprint in the folded state (see Fig. 1) than in the unfolded state (see Fig. 2).
[0052] Each of the pivotable table legs 6 is preferably assigned a support surface 50, on which the underside of the table top 4 rests in its operating state or on the mounting plate 20. Damping elements (not shown) can be arranged on the support surfaces 50 to enable silent unfolding of the table 2 and to prevent scratching of the underside of the table top 4. In the example shown, the support surfaces 50 are formed on distal end portions of the lever elements 48.
[0053] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the pivotable table legs 6 and / or the table top 4 are assigned securing means 52, which are designed to secure the table top 4 in its operating state on the or each support surface 50. The securing means 52 can, for example, be in the form of a screw, a snap or latching closure, or a bayonet closure. In the example shown, the securing means 52 are formed at least indirectly on the pivotable table legs 6. In particular, the securing means 52 are formed on the lever elements 48.
[0054] Furthermore, in the example shown, the securing means 52 are integrated into the support surfaces 50. However, it would also be conceivable for the securing means 52 to be formed separately from the support surfaces 50 at another location on the pivotable table legs 6 or the lever elements 48.
[0055] In particular, it is proposed that the securing means 52 each have an actuating element 54 assigned to the pivotable table leg 6 and corresponding openings 56 on the underside of the table top 4 or the fastening plate 20, with which the actuating element 54 can releasably engage. In particular, the actuating element 54 comprises a bayonet-like pin 58 which, in a specific position, can enter the corresponding opening 56. By actuating the actuating element 54, the pin 58 can be rotated and fixed in the opening 56. The table top 4 is thereby secured in the operating state. When the engagement between the pin 58 and an edge of the opening 56 is released by actuating the actuating element 54, the securing mechanism is removed and the table top 4 can be pivoted into its rest position.
[0056] Of course, spring-loaded locking devices would also be conceivable, which would automatically activate as soon as the table top 4 is in the resting state. Releasing the locking device would then occur counter to a spring force. The spring-loaded locking devices could also be released using an actuating element. Examples of such locking devices are locking or snap-in connections.
[0057] Furthermore, it is proposed that at least one of the pivotable table legs 6 be assigned a stop 60 (cf. Fig. 3), which limits a pivoting movement of the pivotable table leg 6 from the unfolded position into the folded position. In the example, a stop 60 is assigned to each of the table legs 6. In the example, the stops 60 are formed on a side surface of the U-shaped support element 14 facing the lever elements 48 and, when the table legs 6 are folded in, interact with corresponding side surfaces of the lever elements 48. By limiting the pivoting movement of the pivotable table legs 6, the pivoting movement of the table top 4 is also limited due to the coupling by the actuating linkage 36.Furthermore, due to the coupling of the pivotable table legs 6 via the actuating linkage 36 and the table top 4, it is sufficient if such a stop 60 is assigned to only one of several pivotable table legs 6. Preferably, however, such a stop 60 is assigned to all pivotable table legs 6. When the table 2 is in the unfolded state, the second legs 6b, 8b of the table legs 6, 8 or the contact points 24 are spaced approximately 90° apart from one another in the circumferential direction. When the table 2 is in the folded state, the second legs 8b of the fixed table legs 8 or the corresponding contact points 24 are still spaced approximately 90° apart from one another in the circumferential direction. The second legs 6b of the pivotable table legs 6 or the corresponding contact points 24 are then spaced approximately 180° apart from one another in the circumferential direction.The distance in the circumferential direction between a second leg 6b of a pivotable table leg 6 to a second leg 8b of an adjacent fixed table leg 8 is then approximately 45°.
[0058] It is understood that these numerical values are only examples. Different numerical values will result, particularly with a different number of table legs 6, 8. It is also conceivable that, in the example shown, the distance between the second legs 6b of the pivoting table legs 6 or the corresponding contact points 24 when the table 2 is folded is less than 180° in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, the distance in the circumferential direction between a second leg 6b of a pivoting table leg 6 and a second leg 8b of an adjacent fixed table leg 8 would then be greater than 45°.
[0059] When table 2 is folded (see Fig. 1), the two fixed table legs 8 remain in their unchangeable extended position, while the two pivoting table legs 6 pivot into the folded position. The circumferential distance between the two pivoting table legs 6 is increased, while the circumferential distance between the pivoting table legs 6 and the adjacent fixed table legs 8 is reduced. When table 2 is folded (see Fig. 1), the pivoting table legs 6 fold toward the fixed table legs 8, significantly reducing the footprint of table 2.At the same time, the still-extended fixed table legs 8 ensure that a sufficiently large base is available even when the table 2 is folded, so that the table 2 can stand alone on the floor 26 even when folded. This is particularly advantageous if rollers 28 or wheels are arranged at the contact points 24 of the table legs 6, 8 with the floor 26, since the table 2 can then be easily and quickly pushed to a desired position on the floor 26 even when folded. Due to the sufficiently large base, there is no risk of the folded table 2 tipping over.
[0060] As can be seen from Fig. 1, in the example shown, the contact points 24 of the pivoting table legs 6 with a base 26 on which the table 2 stands are arranged, when viewed from above, on the same side of the table top 4 in its resting state in the folded position. The contact points 24 of the fixed table legs 8 are arranged on the opposite side of the table top 4 in its resting state. This structure, with the table top 4 arranged between the contact points 24 of the table legs 6, 8 in the resting state, ensures a balanced and stable stand of the folded table 2.
[0061] In the example of Figs. 1 and 2, the table 2 according to the invention is shown with a round tabletop 4. Together with the L-shaped angled table legs 6, 8, this results in the first limbs 6a, 8a of the table legs 6, 8 being arranged substantially parallel to one another and relatively close together (so-called central base). This configuration could be provided in a corresponding manner for a table 2 with a square tabletop 4. For a tabletop 4 with an elongated extension, e.g., an oval or rectangular tabletop 4, it would be conceivable for the support element 14 to also have a greater longitudinal extension in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the tabletop 4, so that the fixed table legs 8 are spaced apart from one another at a greater distance than shown in Figs. 1 and 2.Correspondingly, the pivotable table legs 6 would then also have a greater distance from one another, which preferably corresponds to the distance between the fixed table legs 8. In this case, the second axes of rotation 12 of the pivotable table legs 6 would also be spaced apart from one another. In this case, the rod 16 fastened to the support element and the first axis of rotation 10 running through it could also be longer than shown in Figs. 1 and 2. Accordingly, the bearing elements 18 fastened to the table top 4 would have a greater distance from one another. For the observer, a table 2 with an elongated table top 4 thus results in two pairs of legs spaced apart from one another in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the table top 4, each pair comprising a fixed table leg 8 and a pivotable table leg 6 hinged thereto.The operating principle described above and the coupling between the table top 4 pivotable about the rotation axis 10 and the table legs 6 pivotable about at least one rotation axis 12 remain the same.
[0062] Figures 3 and 4 show two folded tables 2, 2', one viewed from the side and the other from above. The same reference numerals as in Figures 1-3 are used for the components of the first table 2. For the corresponding components of the second table 2', the reference numerals in Figures 1-3 have been prefixed with an apostrophe.
[0063] The two tables 2, 2' are arranged offset from one another by an offset 62 when viewed from above, such that the folded pivotable table legs 6 or the corresponding contact points 24 of the first table 2 engage between the fixed table legs 8' or its second leg 8b'. The table tops 4, 4' of the two tables 2, 2' run parallel to one another. A distance 64 between the table tops 4, 4' is smaller than the distance of the contact points 24, 24' of the fixed legs 8, 8' of the tables 2, 2' to the second legs 6b, 6b' of the pivotable legs 6, 6' in their folded position. In this way, the folded tables 2, 2' can be arranged nested next to one another, which further saves space.
Claims
Claims 1. A collapsible table (2) comprising a tabletop (4) which, in an operating state, has a substantially horizontal surface extent, and several table legs (6, 8) attached to the tabletop (4), wherein the tabletop (4) is pivotable relative to the table legs (6, 8) about a first axis of rotation (10) into a rest state in which the tabletop (4) has a surface extent deviating from the horizontal, and wherein at least one of the table legs (6) is pivotable from an unfolded position about a second axis of rotation (12), which deviates from the first axis of rotation (10), into a folded position, characterized in that the table (2) has an actuating linkage (36) which couples the tabletop (4) to the at least one pivotable table leg (6) in such a way thatthat a transition of the tabletop (4) from the operating state to the rest state automatically also pivots the at least one swiveling table leg (6) from the extended position to the folded position.
2. Table (2) according to claim 1, wherein the actuating linkage (36) for each pivotable table leg (6) comprises an actuating rod (38) associated with the pivotable table leg (6), which is articulated on the one hand at a distance (40) to the first axis of rotation (10) on the table top (4) and on the other hand at a distance (42) to the second axis of rotation (12) on the pivotable table leg (6).
3. Table (2) according to claim 2, wherein the or each actuating rod (38) of the at least one pivotable table leg (6) is length-adjustable, preferably by means of a thread.
4. Table (2) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein a first end of the or each actuating rod (38) of the at least one pivotable table leg (6) is attached to the underside of the table top (4) by means of a fork, ball or cross joint (44).
5. Table (2) according to claim 4, wherein the fork, ball or cross joint (44) is rotatably mounted on the table top (4) in a plane that runs parallel to the surface extension of the table top (4).
6. Table (2) according to one of claims 2 to 5, wherein a second end of the or each actuating rod (38) is articulated to the pivotable table leg (6) associated with it by means of a fork, ball or cross joint (46).
7. Table (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the differing surface extent of the tabletop (4) in the rest state is a substantially vertical surface extent.
8. Table (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first axis of rotation (10) has a horizontal extent parallel to the surface extent of the table top (4).
9. Table (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pivotable table leg (6) pivots about the second axis of rotation (12) in the direction of the table top (4) in the rest position when transitioning from the unfolded position to the folded position.
10. Table (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second axis of rotation (12) is substantially perpendicular to the first axis of rotation (10).
11. Table (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pivotable table leg (6) is associated with a support surface (50) on which an underside of the table top (4) rests in its operating state.
12. Table (2) according to claim 11, wherein the at least one pivotable table leg (6) and / or the table top (4) is secured by means (52), e.g. in the form associated with a screw, a snap or latch lock, or a bayonet lock, which are designed to secure the table top (4) in its operating state on the or each support surface (50).
13. Table (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one pivotable table leg (6) is associated with a stop (60) which limits a pivoting movement of the pivotable table leg (6) from the unfolded position to the folded position.
14. Table (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the table (2) has several pivotable table legs (6), preferably two pivotable table legs (6), and / or the table (2) has several non-pivotable table legs (8), preferably two pivotable table legs (8).
15. Table (2) according to claim 14, wherein the pivotable table legs (6) are pivotable from their unfolded position about the same second axis of rotation (12) into their folded position.
16. Table (2) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein contact points (24) of the pivotable table legs (6) with a base (26) on which the table (2) stands are arranged on the same side of the table top (4) when viewed from above in the folded position of the pivotable table legs (6).
17. Table (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tabletop (4) in its rest state is arranged, viewed from above, between contact points (24) of at least one non-pivotable table leg (8) with a base (26) on which the table (2) stands, and contact points (24) of at least one pivotable table leg (6) in the folded position with the base (26).