Folding table

Abstract

To provide a novel folding table usable in two modes.SOLUTION: A folding table T1 includes: a nearly polygonal annular frame 100 in a planar view; and three or more top plates 200. The frame 100 has three or more side parts 110 and a first opening H1 divided by the three or more side parts 110. The three or more top plates 200 are supported by the three or more side parts 110 of the frame 100 so that the plates are freely rotatable between a closed position and an open position. The closed position is where the three or more top plates 200 are located at least partially inside the three or more side parts 110 to close the first opening H1 and are in a nearly first horizontal state. The open position is where the three or more top plates 200 are located at least partially outside the three or more side parts 110 and are in a nearly second horizontal state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a folding table. [Background technology]

[0002] A conventional table is described in Patent Document 1. This conventional table includes a circular top plate and a plurality of legs that support the top plate. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-052160 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Conventional tables can only be used in one way.

[0005] The present invention provides a novel folding table that can be used in two ways. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A folding table according to one aspect of the present invention includes a frame that is substantially polygonal in plan view and three or more tabletops. The frame has three or more sides and a first opening defined by the three or more sides. The three or more tabletops are supported by the three or more sides of the frame so as to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position. The closed position is a position in which the three or more tabletops are at least partially inside the three or more sides, closing the first opening, and are in a substantially first horizontal state. The open position is a position in which the three or more tabletops are at least partially outside the three or more sides, and are in a substantially second horizontal state.

[0007] A folding table according to another aspect of the present invention includes a frame having a substantially even-sided polygonal ring shape in plan view and two tabletops. The frame has four or more sides and a first opening defined by the four or more sides. The two tabletops are supported by two opposing sides of the four or more sides of the frame so as to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position. The closed position is a position in which the two tabletops are at least partially inwardly positioned relative to the two sides, blocking the first opening and assuming a substantially first horizontal state. The open position is a position in which the two tabletops are at least partially outwardly positioned relative to the two sides, assuming a substantially second horizontal state. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] A folding table according to one embodiment of the present invention can be used not only in a configuration in which three or more tabletops are positioned in a closed position to block the first opening and the three or more tabletops function as a single tabletop, but also in a configuration in which three or more tabletops are positioned in an open position to open the first opening and the three or more tabletops are positioned around the first opening.

[0009] A folding table according to another aspect of the present invention can be used not only in a configuration in which the two tabletops are positioned in a closed position to block the first opening and the two tabletops function as one tabletop, but also in a configuration in which the two tabletops are positioned in an open position to open the first opening and the two tabletops are positioned on either side of the first opening. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1A] 1 is a perspective view of a folding table according to a first embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the top side, with the top panel in a closed state. [Figure 1B] 1 is a perspective view of the folding table of the first embodiment as viewed from the bottom side, with the top plate in a closed state. FIG. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the folding table of the first embodiment, showing a state in which the top plate is closed. [Figure 1D] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the folding table of the first embodiment, showing the top panel in a closed state. [Figure 1E]FIG. 1 is a front view of the folding table of the first embodiment, showing a state in which the top plate is closed. [Figure 2A] 1 is a perspective view of the folding table of the first embodiment as viewed from the top side, showing the state in which the top plate is open. FIG. [Figure 2B] 1 is a perspective view of the folding table of the first embodiment as viewed from the bottom side, with the top plate in an open state. FIG. [Figure 2C] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the folding table of the first embodiment, showing the state in which the top plate is open. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the folding table of the first embodiment, showing the state in which the top plate is open. [Figure 2E] FIG. 1 is a front view of the folding table of the first embodiment, showing a state in which the top plate is open. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a folding table according to a first design modification of the first embodiment, showing a state in which the top plate is closed. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a folding table according to a first design modification, showing the top panel in an open state. [Figure 4A] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of a folding table according to a second design modification of the first embodiment, showing the top panel in a closed state. [Figure 4B] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of a folding table according to a second design modification, showing the top panel in an open state. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of a folding table according to a third design modification of the first embodiment, showing the top panel in a closed state. [Figure 5B] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of a folding table according to a third design modification, showing the top panel in an open state. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of a folding table according to a fourth design modification of the first embodiment, showing the top panel in a closed state. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of a folding table according to a fourth design modification, showing the top panel in an open state. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of a folding table according to a second embodiment of the present invention, showing a state in which the top plate is closed. [Figure 7B] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of the folding table of the second embodiment, showing the top panel in an open state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, several embodiments of the present invention will be described, including Examples 1 and 2 and their design variations. Note that the components of the examples and design variations described below can be combined with each other as long as they are not inconsistent. Also, note that the materials, shapes, dimensions, numbers, and arrangements of the components in each aspect of the examples and design variations described below are merely examples, and that any design variation is possible as long as the same functions can be achieved. [Example]

[0012] A folding table T1 (hereinafter also simply referred to as "table T1") according to a number of embodiments of the present invention, including a first embodiment and its design variations, will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1A to 6B. FIGS. 1A to 2E show table T1 of the first embodiment. FIGS. 3A to 3B show a first design variation of table T1 of the first embodiment. FIGS. 4A to 4B show a second design variation of table T1 of the first embodiment. FIGS. 5A to 5B show a third design variation of table T1 of the first embodiment. FIGS. 6A to 6B show a fourth design variation of table T1 of the first embodiment.

[0013] Table T1 includes a frame 100. Frame 100 is a frame body that has a generally regular polygonal ring shape in a plan view (for example, a generally regular triangular ring (see FIGS. 3A to 3B), a generally regular square ring (see FIGS. 2A to 2E), a generally regular pentagonal ring (see FIGS. 4A and 4B), a generally regular hexagonal ring (see FIGS. 5A and 5B), or a generally octagonal ring (not shown)), and is made of metal (for example, steel or stainless steel), wood, or the like.

[0014] The frame 100 has three or more sides 110, three or more corners, and a first opening H1 defined by the three or more sides 110. The three or more sides 110 are shaped like a rectangular tube or a rectangular column, and have an upper surface 111, an opposite lower surface 112, an outer surface 113, and an opposite inner surface 114. The three or more sides 110 include three or more sets of two adjacent sides 110. The three or more corners are formed by three or more sets of two adjacent sides 110 butting together.

[0015] When the frame 100 is a frame body having a substantially equilateral triangular ring shape in a plan view (see FIGS. 3A and 3B), the three or more side portions 110 have three side portions 110 and the three or more corner portions have three corner portions. The three side portions 110 define a first opening H1 having a substantially equilateral triangular shape in a plan view. The three side portions 110 have three sets of two adjacent side portions 110. The three corner portions are formed by the three sets of two adjacent side portions 110 butting together.

[0016] When the frame 100 is a frame body having a substantially square ring shape in plan view (see FIGS. 2A to 2E and 6A to 6B), the three or more side portions 110 have four side portions 110 and the three or more corner portions have four corner portions. The four side portions 110 define a first opening H1 having a substantially square shape in plan view. The four side portions 110 have four pairs of adjacent side portions 110. The four corner portions are formed by the four pairs of adjacent side portions 110 butting together.

[0017] When the frame 100 is a frame body having a substantially regular pentagonal ring shape in a planar view (see FIGS. 4A and 4B), the three or more side portions 110 have five side portions 110 and the three or more corner portions have five corner portions. The five side portions 110 define a first opening H1 having a substantially pentagonal shape in a planar view. The frame 100 has five corner portions. The five side portions 110 have five pairs of adjacent side portions 110. The five corner portions are formed by five pairs of adjacent side portions 110 butting together.

[0018] When the frame 100 is a frame body having a substantially regular hexagonal ring shape in a plan view (see FIGS. 5 and 5B), the three or more side portions 110 have six side portions 110 and the three or more corner portions have six corner portions. The six side portions 110 define a first opening H1 having a substantially regular hexagonal shape in a plan view. The six side portions 110 have six pairs of adjacent side portions 110. The six corner portions are formed by six pairs of adjacent side portions 110 butting together.

[0019] When the frame 100 is a frame body having a substantially regular octagonal ring shape in a plan view (not shown), the three or more side portions 110 have eight side portions 110, and the three or more corner portions have eight corner portions. The eight side portions 110 define a first opening H1 having a substantially regular octagonal shape in a plan view. The eight side portions 110 have eight pairs of adjacent side portions 110. The eight corner portions are formed by eight pairs of adjacent side portions 110 butting together.

[0020] The table T1 further includes three or more tabletops 200. The number of the three or more tabletops 200 corresponds to the number of the three or more sides 110 of the frame 100. The three or more tabletops 200 and the three or more sides 110 correspond one-to-one. For example, when the three or more sides 110 are three (see FIGS. 3A and 3B), the three or more tabletops 200 include three tabletops 200. When the three or more sides 110 are four (see FIGS. 1A to 2E and 6A to 6B), the three or more tabletops 200 include four tabletops 200. When the three or more sides 110 are five (see FIGS. 4 and 4B), the three or more tabletops 200 include five tabletops 200. When the three or more sides 110 are six (see FIGS. 5A and 5B), the three or more tabletops 200 include six tabletops 200. When the three or more sides 110 are eight (not shown), the three or more table tops 200 include eight table tops 200. The three or more table tops 200 include three or more pairs of two adjacent table tops 200.

[0021] Each tabletop 200 can be, for example, a substantially isosceles trapezoid (see FIGS. 1A to 6B) or a substantially isosceles triangle (not shown). Each tabletop 200 is made of metal (e.g., steel or stainless steel), wood, or the like. The interior of each tabletop 200 may be hollow or solid. Each tabletop 200 may have a plurality of through-holes penetrating through it in the thickness direction, but this is not essential. Each tabletop 200 has a first surface 201 on one side in the thickness direction and a second surface 202 on the other side in the thickness direction.

[0022] When each table top 200 has a substantially isosceles trapezoidal shape, it has a lower side portion 210, an upper side portion 220, a first oblique side portion 230, and a second oblique side portion 240. When each table top 200 has an isosceles triangular shape, it has a lower side portion 210, a first oblique side portion 230, and a second oblique side portion 240.

[0023] The length of the bottom side portion 210 is preferably approximately the same as the length of the corresponding side portion 110 (see FIGS. 1A to 5B), but can also be shorter (see FIGS. 6A to 6B). The bottom side portion 210 has an area at the bottom side of the first surface 201. Hereinafter, this area will be referred to as the first area of the bottom side portion 210. The bottom side portion 210 has an area at the bottom side of the second surface 202. Hereinafter, this area will be referred to as the second area of the bottom side portion 210. The bottom side portion 210 has a third surface 203 between the first area and the second area. This third surface 203 is also the bottom surface of the top plate 200.

[0024] The first angle R1 of the first oblique side portion 230 relative to the bottom side portion 210 and the second angle R2 of the second oblique side portion 240 relative to the bottom side portion 210 are substantially the same, and are each set to approximately half of the third angle R3 between two adjacent side portions 110 (the angle of the corner formed by two adjacent side portions 110). For example, when the frame 100 has a substantially equilateral triangular ring shape (see FIGS. 3A and 3B), the third angle R3 is approximately 60 degrees, and therefore the first angle R1 and the second angle R2 are each approximately 30 degrees. When the frame 100 has a substantially equilateral square ring shape (see FIGS. 1A to 2E and 6A to 6B), the third angle R3 is approximately 90 degrees, and therefore the first angle R1 and the second angle R2 are each approximately 45 degrees. When the frame 100 is in a substantially regular pentagonal ring shape (see FIGS. 4A and 4B), the third angle R3 is approximately 108 degrees, and therefore the first angle R1 and the second angle R2 are each approximately 54 degrees. When the frame 100 is in a substantially regular hexagonal ring shape (see FIGS. 5A and 5B), the third angle R3 is approximately 120 degrees, and therefore the first angle R1 and the second angle R2 are each approximately 60 degrees. When the frame 100 is in a substantially regular octagonal ring shape, the third angle R3 is approximately 135 degrees, and therefore the first angle R1 and the second angle R2 are each approximately 67.5 degrees.

[0025] The three or more top panels 200 have their bottom sides 210 supported by the three or more sides 110 of the frame 100 so as to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position.

[0026] The closed position is a position in which the three or more tabletops 200 are at least partially positioned inside the three or more side portions 110 of the frame 100, closing the first opening H1 of the frame 100, and are in a substantially first horizontal state (see FIGS. 1A to 1E, 3A, 4A, 5A, and 6A). In this closed position, in each of the three or more pairs of tabletops 200, the first oblique side portion 230 of one of the two adjacent tabletops 200 contacts the second oblique side portion 240 of the other tabletop 200. When the three or more tabletops 200 are substantially isosceles trapezoidal, in this closed position, the upper side portions 220 of the three or more tabletops 200 define a second opening H2 that is substantially regular polygonal in plan view. The shape of the second opening H2 in plan view corresponds to the shape of the frame 100 in plan view. For example, when the frame 100 is substantially triangular (not shown), the second opening H2 is substantially equilateral triangular. When the frame 100 is in the shape of a substantially regular square ring (see FIGS. 1A to 1E and 6A to 6B), the second opening H2 is in the shape of a substantially regular square. When the frame 100 is in the shape of a substantially regular pentagonal ring (see FIG. 4A), the second opening H2 is in the shape of a substantially regular pentagon. When the frame 100 is in the shape of a substantially regular hexagonal ring (see FIG. 5A), the second opening H2 is in the shape of a substantially regular hexagon. When the frame 100 is in the shape of a substantially regular octagonal ring (not shown), the second opening H2 is in the shape of a substantially regular octagon. Note that when three or more tabletops 200 are in the shape of a substantially isosceles triangle, the three or more tabletops 200 do not have upper side portions 220, and therefore the three or more tabletops 200 do not define the second opening H2 in the closed position.

[0027] The open position is a position where the three or more tabletops 200 are at least partially positioned outside the three or more side portions 110 of the frame 100 and are in a substantially second horizontal state (see FIGS. 2A to 2E, 3B, 4B, 5B, and 6B). In this open position, in each of the three or more pairs of tabletops 200, the first oblique side portion 230 of one tabletop 200 and the second oblique side portion 240 of the other tabletop 200 are arranged in a substantially V-shape convex toward the opposite side from the center of the frame 100, a substantially V-shape convex toward the center of the frame 100, or a linear shape. For example, when the frame 100 has a substantially equilateral triangular ring shape (see FIG. 3B), the first oblique side portion 230 of one tabletop 200 and the second oblique side portion 240 of the other tabletop 200 are arranged in a substantially V-shape convex toward the opposite side from the center of the frame 100. When the frame 100 has a substantially square annular shape (see FIGS. 2A to 2E and 6B), the first oblique side portion 230 of one table top 200 and the second oblique side portion 240 of the other table top 200 are arranged in a straight line. When the frame 100 has a substantially pentagonal annular shape (see FIG. 4B), when the frame 100 has a substantially regular hexagonal annular shape (see FIG. 5B), or when the frame 100 has a substantially regular octagonal annular shape (not shown), the first oblique side portion 230 of one table top 200 and the second oblique side portion 240 of the other table top 200 are arranged in a substantially V-shape that protrudes toward the center of the frame 100.

[0028] The table T1 may further include three or more hinges 300. The three or more hinges 300 connect the three or more bottom side portions 210 of the table tops 200 to the three or more side portions 110 of the frame 100 so as to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position.

[0029] The three or more hinges 300 are one or more for each of the three or more tabletops 200 and the three or more side portions 110. In Figures 1A to 4B, two hinges 300 are provided for each of the three or more tabletops 200 and the three or more side portions 110, but one hinge 300 may be provided for each of the three or more tabletops 200 and the three or more side portions 110, or three or more hinges 300 may be provided for each of the three or more tabletops 200 and the three or more side portions 110. Hereinafter, the tabletops 200 and the side portions 110 to which each hinge 300 is connected will be referred to as the corresponding tabletops 200 and side portions 110.

[0030] Each hinge 300 is a flat hinge and has a first blade 310, a second blade 320, and a shaft 330. The shaft 330 connects the adjacent ends of the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 so that they can rotate approximately 180 degrees. Each hinge 300, the corresponding top panel 200, and the corresponding side 110 further have any one of the following configurations (1) to (3). Note that three or more hinges 300 can be omitted. In this case, the configuration (4) is preferable.

[0031] (1) The first blade 310 of each hinge 300 is fixed to the second area of the lower side 210 of the corresponding top panel 200 (see FIGS. 1A to 2E). The second blade 320 of each hinge 300 is fixed to the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side 110 of the frame 100 (see FIGS. 1A to 2E).

[0032] When the corresponding table top 200 is in the closed position (see FIGS. 1A to 1E), the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 overlap (face each other), the second area of the lower side portion 210 of the corresponding table top 200 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, the portion of the corresponding table top 200 above the lower side portion 210 is positioned inside the corresponding side portion 110 to partially close the first opening H1 of the frame 100, and the third surface 203 of the lower side portion 210 of the corresponding table top 200 and the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110 are approximately flush with each other. The corresponding table top 200 in this closed position is supported by the corresponding side portion 110 via each hinge 300, and the second area of the lower side portion 210 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0033] When the corresponding table tops 200 are positioned in the open position (see FIGS. 2A to 2E), the first blades 310 and second blades 320 are opened approximately 180 degrees, the third surface 203 of the lower side portion 210 of the corresponding table top 200 abuts against the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110, the second surface 202 of the corresponding table top 200 is approximately flush with the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, and the entire corresponding table top 200 is positioned outward relative to the corresponding side portion 110. The corresponding table tops 200 positioned in the open position in this manner are supported by the corresponding side portions 110 via the hinges 300, and the third surface 203 of the lower side portion 210 abuts against the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0034] (2) The first blade 310 of each hinge 300 is fixed to the third surface 203 of the corresponding bottom edge 210 of the top panel 200 (not shown). The second blade 320 of each hinge 300 is fixed to the outer surface 113 of the corresponding edge 110 of the frame 100 (not shown).

[0035] When the corresponding table top 200 is in the closed position, the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 open approximately 180 degrees, the second area of the lower edge portion 210 of the corresponding table top 200 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, the portion of the corresponding table top 200 above the lower edge portion 210 is positioned inside the corresponding side portion 110 to partially close the first opening H1 of the frame 100, and the third surface 203 of the lower edge portion 210 of the corresponding table top 200 and the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110 are approximately flush with each other. The corresponding table top 200 in this closed position is supported by the corresponding side portion 110 via each hinge 300, and the second area of the lower edge portion 210 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0036] When the corresponding table tops 200 are positioned in the open position, the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 overlap (face each other), the third surface 203 of the lower side portion 210 of the corresponding table top 200 abuts against the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110, the second surface 202 of the corresponding table top 200 is substantially flush with the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, and the entire corresponding table top 200 is positioned outward from the corresponding side portion 110. The corresponding table tops 200 positioned in the open position in this manner are supported by the corresponding side portions 110 via the hinges 300, and the third surface 203 of the lower side portion 210 abuts against the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0037] In addition, in order for the third surface 203 of the lower edge portion 210 of the corresponding tabletop 200 to abut against the outer surface 113 of the corresponding edge portion 110 when the corresponding tabletop 200 is positioned in the open position, a convex protrusion may be provided on the other side at a location where at least one of the third surface 203 of the lower edge portion 210 of the corresponding tabletop 200 and the outer surface 113 of the corresponding edge portion 110 does not have a hinge 300.

[0038] (3) The first blade 310 of each hinge 300 is fixed to a first area of the lower edge 210 of the corresponding top panel 200 (see FIG. 6A). The second blade 320 of each hinge 300 is fixed to the upper surface 111 of the corresponding edge 110 of the frame 100 (see FIG. 6A).

[0039] When the corresponding table top 200 is in the closed position (see FIG. 6A), the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 open approximately 180 degrees, the third surface 203 of the lower side portion 210 of the corresponding table top 200 abuts against the inner surface 114 of the corresponding side portion 110, the first surface 201 of the corresponding table top 200 is approximately flush with the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, and the entire corresponding table top 200 is positioned inside the corresponding side portion 110 to partially close the first opening H1 of the frame 100. The corresponding table top 200 in this closed position is supported by the corresponding side portion 110 via each hinge 300, and the third surface 203 of the lower side portion 210 abuts against the inner surface 114 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0040] When the corresponding table tops 200 are positioned in the open position (see FIG. 6B), the first blades 310 and second blades 320 overlap (face each other), and a first area of the lower side portion 210 of the corresponding table tops 200 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, so that the portion of the corresponding table tops 200 above the lower side portion 210 is positioned outward relative to the corresponding side portion 110. The corresponding table tops 200 positioned in the open position in this manner are supported by the corresponding side portions 110 via the hinges 300, and the first area of the lower side portion 210 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0041] (4) A pair of first rotating protrusions projecting upward are provided on the corresponding side portion 110, and a second rotating protrusion is provided on the corresponding lower side portion 210 of the tabletop 200, the second rotating protrusion being disposed between the pair of first rotating protrusions and rotatably supported by the pair of first rotating protrusions. Alternatively, a rotating recess is provided on the corresponding lower side portion 210 of the tabletop 200, while a rotating protrusion projecting upward is provided on the corresponding side portion 110, the rotating protrusion being disposed within the rotating recess and rotatably supported by both wall portions of the rotating recess.

[0042] When the corresponding table top 200 is positioned in the closed position, a second area of the lower side portion 210 of the corresponding table top 200 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, and the portion of the corresponding table top 200 above the lower side portion 210 is positioned inside the corresponding side portion 110 to partially close the first opening H1 of the frame 100. The corresponding table top 200 positioned in this manner in the closed position is rotatably supported by the corresponding side portion 110, and the second area of the lower side portion 210 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0043] When the corresponding table top 200 is positioned in the open position, a first area of the lower side portion 210 of the corresponding table top 200 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, and the portion of the corresponding table top 200 above the lower side portion 210 is positioned outward relative to the corresponding side portion 110. The corresponding table top 200 positioned in this way in the open position is rotatably supported by the corresponding side portion 110, and the first area of the lower side portion 210 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0044] The table T1 may further include three or more suspension portions 400. The number of the three or more suspension portions 400 is the same as the number of the three or more corners of the frame 100. For example, if the frame 100 has three or more corners, the three or more suspension portions 400 include three suspension portions 400. If the frame 100 has four or more corners, the three or more suspension portions 400 include four suspension portions 400. If the frame 100 has five or more corners, the three or more suspension portions 400 include five suspension portions 400. If the frame 100 has six or more corners, the three or more suspension portions 400 include six suspension portions 400. If the frame 100 has eight or more corners, the three or more suspension portions 400 include eight suspension portions 400.

[0045] Each of the suspension portions 400 is suspended from two adjacent side portions 110 that form each corner of the frame 100, and abuts from below two adjacent top plates 200 that are positioned in the closed position.

[0046] Each suspension part 400 has a suspension part body 410 suspended from two adjacent side parts 110. The suspension part body 410 is made of a metal plate, a wooden plate, or the like. The suspension part body 410 has a first end and a second end on the opposite side.

[0047] When the plurality of hinges 300 fixed to two adjacent side portions 110 have the configuration (1) above, (1-1) the first end of the suspension body 410 is fixed to the upper surface 111 of one of the two adjacent side portions 110 in a state where it is partially overlapped on the second wing 320 of the hinge 300 fixed to the one side portion 110, and the second end of the suspension body 410 is fixed to the upper surface 111 of the other side portion 110 in a state where it is partially overlapped on the second wing 320 of the hinge 300 fixed to the upper surface 111 of the other side portion 110, It may be fixed to the upper surface 111 of the other side portion 110 (see Figures 2A to 2E, 3B, and 5B), or (1-2) the first end of the suspension body 410 may be fixed to the upper surface 111 of one side portion 110 separately from the second wing 320 of the hinge 300 fixed to the one side portion 110, and the second end of the suspension body 410 may be fixed to the upper surface 111 of the other side portion 110 separately from the second wing 320 of the hinge 300 fixed to the upper surface 111 of the other side portion 110 (see Figure 4).

[0048] When the multiple hinges 300 fixed to two adjacent side portions 110 have the configuration (2) above, (2-1) the first end of the suspension body 410 is fixed to the upper surface 111 of one side portion 110, and the second end of the suspension body 410 is fixed to the upper surface 111 of the other side portion 110.

[0049] When the multiple hinges 300 fixed to two adjacent side portions 110 have the configuration (3) above, (3-1) the first end of the suspension body 410 is fixed to the underside 112 of one side portion 110, and the second end of the suspension body 410 is fixed to the underside 112 of the other side portion 110 (not shown).

[0050] As described above in (4), when the hinge 300 is omitted, (4-1) the first end of the suspension body 410 is fixed to the top surface 111 of one of the two adjacent side portions 110, and the second end of the suspension body 410 is fixed to the top surface 111 of the other side portion 110 (not shown).

[0051] Each suspension 400 may further have a protrusion 420 that is convex upward. The protrusion 420 is provided on the suspension main body 410. For example, when the suspension main body 410 is made of a metal plate, the protrusion 420 may be formed by pressing a portion of the suspension main body 410 so that it is convex upward, or may be a protrusion that is provided integrally on the suspension main body 410, or may be a separate body from the suspension main body 410 and fixed to the suspension main body 410. The height of the protrusion 420 may be approximately the same as or slightly larger than the dimension of the gap between the suspension main body 410 and two adjacent tabletops 200 that are positioned in the closed position. The protrusion 420 abuts the two adjacent tabletops 200 that are positioned in the closed position from below.

[0052] When the suspension body 410 has the configuration (1-1) above, the height dimension of the protrusion 420 may be approximately the same as or slightly larger than the thickness dimension of the first blade 310 of the multiple hinges 300, which is the cause of the gap. When the suspension body 410 has the configuration (1-2) above, the height dimensions of the suspension body 410 and the protrusion 420 may be approximately the same as or slightly larger than the sum of the thickness dimensions of the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 of the multiple hinges 300, which are the cause of the gap. When the suspension body 410 has the configuration (2-1), (3-1), or (4-1) above, the height dimension of the protrusion 420 may be approximately the same as or slightly larger than the dimension of the gap. Note that the protrusion 420 may be omitted.

[0053] Three or more suspension parts 400 may further include magnets 430. In this case, three or more top plates 200 are made of a ferromagnetic material.

[0054] When each suspension part 400 is provided with a protrusion 420, the protrusion 420 has a magnet 430. The magnet 430 may be built into the protrusion 420, or the magnet 430 may constitute the protrusion 420. When the protrusion 420 is in contact with the two adjacent tabletops 200 positioned in the closed position from below, the magnet 430 is attracted to the two adjacent tabletops 200 positioned in the closed position.

[0055] When no protrusions 420 are provided on each suspension section 400, the suspension section main body 410 has the magnet 430. The magnet 430 may be built into the suspension section main body 410, or the magnet 430 may be attached to the suspension section main body 410, or the magnet 430 may constitute the suspension section main body 410. When the suspension section main body 410 is in contact with the two adjacent tabletops 200 positioned in the closed position from below, the magnet 430 is attracted to the two adjacent tabletops 200 positioned in the closed position.

[0056] Three or more suspension parts 400 may be made of a ferromagnetic material. In this case, three or more tabletops 200 further include magnets 430. The magnets 430 may be built into each tabletop 200, or the magnets 430 may be attached to each tabletop 200, or each tabletop 200 may be made of the magnets 430.

[0057] When the protrusions 420 are provided on each suspension part 400, the protrusions 420 are made of a ferromagnetic material. In this case, when the protrusions 420 are in contact with the lower sides of the two adjacent tabletops 200 that are in the closed position, the protrusions 420 are attracted to the magnets 430 of the two adjacent tabletops 200.

[0058] When the protrusions 420 are not provided on the suspension parts 400, the suspension part main body 410 is made of a ferromagnetic material. In this case, when the suspension part main body 410 is in contact with the two adjacent tabletops 200 positioned in the closed position from below, the suspension part main body 410 is attracted to the magnets 430 of the two adjacent tabletops 200 positioned in the closed position.

[0059] It is possible to omit three or more suspension units 400. Although three or more suspension units 400 are provided, the magnets 430 do not have to be provided on three or more suspension units 400 or three or more tabletops 200. Three or more suspension units 400 may be omitted, and the magnets 430 may also be omitted.

[0060] The table T1 further includes a plurality of legs 500. The plurality of legs 500 are rotatably attached to the frame 100 (see FIGS. 1A to 2E). Note that the legs 500 are omitted in FIGS. 3A to 5B.

[0061] (a) The number of the multiple legs 500 can be the same as the number of the three or more corners of the frame 100 (see FIGS. 1A to 2E). In this case, each leg 500 is made of a metal rod. Each leg 500 has a substantially U-shaped leg body 510 and a pair of shafts extending away from each other from the upper end of the leg body 510. The pair of shafts are rotatably supported in shaft holes of two adjacent side portions 110 that form each corner of the frame 100. The leg body 510 is rotatable between a folded position and an upright position, with the pair of shafts as fulcrums.

[0062] (b) The number of the multiple legs 500 can be the same as the number of the three or more sides 110 of the frame 100 (not shown). In this case, each leg 500 has the above-mentioned leg main body 510 and a pair of shafts. The pair of shafts are rotatably supported by shaft holes in a pair of protrusions provided on each side 110. The leg main body 510 can rotate freely between an upright position and a folded position, with the pair of shafts as fulcrums.

[0063] (c) The number of the multiple legs 500 can be two (not shown). In this case, the two legs 500 have the above-mentioned leg body 510 and a pair of shafts. The pair of shafts are rotatably supported by shaft holes in a pair of protrusions provided on two opposing sides of the three or more sides 110 of the frame 100. The leg body 510 is rotatable between an upright position and a folded position, with the pair of shafts as fulcrums.

[0064] In any of the above cases (a) to (c), the folded position is a position where the leg main body 510 is disposed below and along the three or more tabletops 200 that are positioned in the closed position. The standing position is a position where the leg main body 510 stands upright relative to the frame 100 (a position rotated approximately 90 to 120 degrees from the folded position relative to the frame 100).

[0065] The plurality of legs 500 may be detachably attached (not shown) to the frame 100. For example, the number of the plurality of legs 500 may be the same as the number of three or more corners or three or more side portions 110 of the frame 100, and the upper end of each leg 500 may be screwed into a screw hole in each corner or side portion 110, or the upper end of each leg 500 may be fitted (FIT IN) into a fitting hole in each corner or side portion 110.

[0066] When three or more hinges 300 have the configuration (1) or (2) above and a plurality of legs 500 have the configuration (a) above, the table T1 may further include three or more locking portions 600. Note that the locking portions 600 are omitted in Figures 3A to 5B.

[0067] The number of the multiple locking portions 600 is the same as the number of the three or more corners of the frame 100 (see FIGS. 1A to 2E). Each locking portion 600 has a locking portion main body 610. The locking portion main body 610 is made of a metal plate, a wooden plate, or the like. The locking portion main body 610 has a first end and a second end on the opposite side, and the first end and the second end are fixed to the lower surfaces 112 of two adjacent side portions 110 that make up each corner of the frame 100. When each suspension portion 400 is fixed to the upper surfaces 111 of the adjacent side portions 110 that make up each corner of the frame 100, the locking portion main body 610 of each locking portion 600 faces the corresponding suspension portion 400 with a gap in the up-down direction.

[0068] The locking portion main body 610 is provided with a pair of locking holes 620 that are generally L-shaped when viewed from the bottom. The pair of locking holes 620 has a first hole 621 and a second hole 622. The first holes 621 of the pair of locking holes 620 extend generally parallel to each other along imaginary lines extending from the center of the frame 100 to each corner of the frame, and are open toward the center of the frame 100 while being closed on the opposite side. The second holes 622 of the pair of locking holes 620 extend away from each other from the closed ends of the first holes 621.

[0069] Each locking part 600 can further include first and second vertical plates extending upward from the first and second ends of the locking part body 610. The inner ends of the first and second vertical plates are provided with locking recesses 630, 630 that are recessed away from each other (see FIG. 2B).

[0070] The distance between the leg bodies 510 of each leg 500 in the folded position is narrowed by hand. In this state, each leg 500 is rotated from the folded position to the standing position. During this rotation process, the leg bodies 510 are inserted into the first holes 621 of the pair of locking holes 620 and reach the closed ends of the first holes 621. When the hands are released from the leg bodies 510 of each leg 500, the leg bodies 510 return to their original position and are inserted into the second holes 622 of the pair of locking holes 620. In this way, the leg bodies 510 of each leg 500 are locked by the locking parts 600 in the standing position.

[0071] The distance between the leg bodies 510 of each leg 500 in the upright position is narrowed by hand. Then, the leg bodies 510 move through the second holes 622 of the pair of locking holes 620 and reach the closed ends of the first holes 621. In this state, each leg 500 is rotated from the folded position to the upright position. During this rotation process, the leg bodies 510 are disengaged from the first holes 621 of the pair of locking holes 620. In this way, the locking of the locking portions 600 of the leg bodies 510 of each leg 500 is released.

[0072] When the legs 500 are in the folded position, if the hands are released from the leg body 510, the leg body 510 returns to its original state and fits into the locking recesses 630, 630. In this way, the leg body 510 of each leg 500 is locked to the locking portions 600 in the folded position.

[0073] It is possible to omit three or more locking portions 600. It is also possible to have a configuration in which the locking portion main body 610 of each locking portion 600 is provided, but the first and second vertical plates are not provided.

[0074] The folding table T1 as described above has the following technical features and effects (1) to (6).

[0075] (1) The table T1 can be used not only in an embodiment in which three or more table tops 200 are positioned in the closed position to block the first opening H1 and the three or more table tops 200 are used as a single table top, but also in an embodiment in which three or more table tops 200 are positioned in the open position to open the first opening H1 and position the three or more table tops 200 around the first opening H1. With the three or more table tops 200 positioned in the open position, the space within the first opening H1 can be used as a space for placing an outdoor heating cooker such as a barbecue grill or a fire pit, or as a space for making a bonfire on the ground below the first opening H1.

[0076] (2) When the three or more tabletops 200 are substantially isosceles trapezoidal or substantially isosceles triangular in plan view, when the three or more tabletops 200 are positioned in the closed position, the first oblique side portion 230 of one of two adjacent tabletops 200 among the three or more tabletops 200 contacts the second oblique side portion 240 of the other tabletop 200. Therefore, when the three or more tabletops 200 close the first opening H1 of the frame 100, no gap is created between any two adjacent tabletops 200 among the three or more tabletops 200, making it easier to use the three or more tabletops 200 as a single tabletop.

[0077] (3) When the three or more tabletops 200 are substantially isosceles triangular in plan view, dimensional tolerances of the three or more tabletops 200 and / or tolerances of the attachment positions of the three or more tabletops 200 relative to the three or more side portions 110 of the frame 100 may cause the tops of the three or more tabletops 200 to interfere with each other when the three or more tabletops 200 are positioned in the closed position, which may hinder smooth rotation of the three or more tabletops 200. However, when the three or more tabletops 200 are substantially isosceles trapezoidal in plan view, the three or more tabletops 200 have upper side portions 220, and the upper side portions 220 of the three or more tabletops 200 define the second opening H2 when the three or more tabletops 200 are positioned in the closed position, so the upper side portions 220 of the three or more tabletops 200 do not interfere with each other when positioned in the closed position. Moreover, by defining the second opening H2 with the upper side portions 220 of three or more tabletops 200, the second opening H2 can be used as a hole for inserting a lantern pole or a parasol pole.

[0078] (4) When three or more side portions 110, three or more tabletops 200, and three or more hinges 300 have the configuration (1) or (2) above, when the three or more tabletops 200 are positioned in the closed position, the second area of the lower edge portion 210 of each of the three or more tabletops 200 abuts against the upper surface 111 of the three or more side portions 110, and when the three or more tabletops 200 are positioned in the open position, the third surface 203 of the lower edge portion 210 of each of the three or more tabletops 200 abuts against the outer surface 113 of the three or more side portions 110. When the three or more side portions 110, the three or more tabletops 200, and the three or more hinges 300 have the configuration (3) above, when the three or more tabletops 200 are positioned in the closed position, the third surfaces 203 of the lower side portions 210 of the three or more tabletops 200 abut against the inner surfaces 114 of the three or more side portions 110, and when the three or more tabletops 200 are positioned in the open position, the first areas of the lower side portions 210 of the three or more tabletops 200 abut against the upper surfaces 111 of the three or more side portions 110. Therefore, whether the three or more tabletops 200 are positioned in the closed position or the open position, they abut against the three or more side portions 110 and are stably supported.

[0079] (5) When three or more suspension parts 400 are provided, each suspension part 400 abuts against two adjacent tabletops 200 in the closed position to support the two adjacent tabletops 200, thereby stabilizing the two adjacent tabletops 200 in the closed position. Moreover, when each suspension part 400 has a protrusion 420, even if there is a gap between the suspension part body 410 of each suspension part 400 and the two adjacent tabletops 200 in the closed position, the protrusion 420 of each suspension part 400 abuts against the two adjacent tabletops 200 in the closed position.

[0080] (6) When magnets 430 are provided on three or more suspension units 400, when each suspension unit 400 abuts from below against two adjacent tabletops 200 that are positioned in the closed position, the magnets 430 of each suspension unit 400 are attracted to the two adjacent tabletops 200. When magnets 430 are provided on three or more tabletops 200, when each suspension unit 400 abuts from below against two adjacent tabletops 200 that are positioned in the closed position, the magnets 430 of the two adjacent tabletops 200 attract each suspension unit 400. This makes it easier to maintain the two adjacent tabletops 200 in the closed position. [Example]

[0081] A folding table T2 (hereinafter simply referred to as "table T2") according to a second embodiment of the present invention and a number of other embodiments including design variations thereof will be described below with reference to Figures 7A and 7B. Figures 7A and 7B show table T2 according to the second embodiment.

[0082] The folding table T2 has the same configuration as the table T1, except that the frame 100 is a substantially even-sided polygonal ring in a plan view and has two top panels 200'. Only these differences will be described in detail below, and any explanation of the table T2 that overlaps with the explanation of the table T1 will be omitted.

[0083] 7A and 7B, the frame 100 of the table T2 has a substantially rectangular ring shape in plan view, but is not limited thereto and may have a substantially even polygonal ring shape such as a substantially hexagonal ring or a substantially octagonal ring. The frame 100 of the table T2 has four or more sides 110. The four or more sides 110 of the table T2 define a first opening H1 having a substantially even polygonal shape in plan view. Each side 110 of the table T2 has the same configuration as each side 110 of the frame 100 of any of the above-described embodiments of the table T1. Note that the four or more sides 110 of the frame 100 (all sides 110) include two sides 110 that face each other.

[0084] The shape of each table top 200' of the table T2 in a plan view can be approximately half the shape of the outline of the approximately even-polygonal frame 100 in a plan view. Each table top 200' has a lower side 210' and an upper side 220'. Each table top 200' has a first surface 201' on one side in the thickness direction of the table top 200' and a second surface 202' on the other side in the thickness direction.

[0085] The two tabletops 200' have their lower sides 210' supported by the two opposing sides 110 so as to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position. The length of the lower sides 210' of the two tabletops 200' is preferably approximately the same as the length of the two opposing sides 110.

[0086] The closed position is a position in which the two tabletops 200' are at least partially positioned inside the two opposing side portions 110, closing the first opening H1 of the frame 100, and are in a substantially first horizontal state (see FIG. 7A). In this closed position, the upper side portions 220' of the two tabletops 200' are in contact with each other.

[0087] The open position is a position where the two tabletops 200' are at least partially positioned outside the two opposing sides 110 and are in a substantially second horizontal state (see FIG. 7B).

[0088] The table T2 may include two or more hinges 300. The number of two or more hinges 300 may be one or more for each of the two table tops 200' and two opposing side portions 110. In FIGS. 7A and 7B, two hinges 300 are provided for each of the two table tops 200' and two opposing side portions 110, but one hinge 300 may be provided for each of the two table tops 200' and two opposing side portions 110, or three or more hinges 300 may be provided for each of the two table tops 200' and two opposing side portions 110. Hereinafter, the table tops 200' and sides 110 to which each hinge 300 is connected will be referred to as the corresponding table tops 200' and corresponding side portions 110.

[0089] Each hinge 300 of the table T2 has the same configuration as each hinge 300 of the table T1.

[0090] When each hinge 300, the corresponding table top 200' and the corresponding edge 110 of the table T2 have the configuration (1) above, when the corresponding table top 200' is positioned in the closed position (see Figure 7A), the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 overlap (face each other), the second surface 202' of the corresponding table top 200' abuts the upper surface 111 of the corresponding edge 110 and the upper surfaces 111 of one or more edges 110 located on both sides of the corresponding edge 110, the portion above the lower edge 210' of the corresponding table top 200' is located inward relative to the corresponding edge 110 to partially block the first opening H1 of the frame 100, and the third surface 203' of the lower edge 210' of the corresponding table top 200' and the outer surface 113 of the corresponding edge 110 are approximately flush with each other. The corresponding table top 200' positioned in the closed position in this manner is supported by the corresponding side portion 110 via each hinge 300, and its second surface 202' abuts against the top surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110 and the top surfaces 111 of one or more side portions 110 located on both sides of the corresponding side portion 110. On the other hand, when the corresponding table top 200' is positioned in the open position (see FIG. 7B), the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 open approximately 180 degrees, the third surface 203' of the bottom side portion 210' of the corresponding table top 200' abuts against the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110, the second surface 202' of the corresponding table top 200' becomes approximately flush with the top surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, and the entire corresponding table top 200' is positioned outward from the corresponding side portion 110. The corresponding top panel 200' positioned in this open position is supported by the corresponding side portion 110 via each hinge 300, and the third surface 203' of the lower side portion 210' abuts against the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0091] When each hinge 300, the corresponding table top 200' and the corresponding edge 110 of the table T2 have the configuration (2) above, when the corresponding table top 200' is positioned in the closed position (not shown), the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 open approximately 180 degrees, the second surface 202' of the corresponding table top 200' abuts the upper surface 111 of the corresponding edge 110 and the upper surfaces 111 of one or more edges 110 located on both sides of the corresponding edge 110, the portion above the lower edge 210' of the corresponding table top 200' is positioned inward relative to the corresponding edge 110 to partially block the first opening H1 of the frame 100, and the third surface 203' of the lower edge 210' of the corresponding table top 200' and the outer surface 113 of the corresponding edge 110 are approximately flush with each other. The corresponding top plate 200' positioned in the closed position in this manner is supported by the corresponding side portion 110 via each hinge 300, and its second surface 202' abuts against the top surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110 and the top surfaces 111 of one or more side portions 110 positioned on both sides thereof. On the other hand, when the corresponding top plate 200' is positioned in the open position (not shown), the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 overlap (face each other), the third surface 203' of the lower side portion 210' of the corresponding top plate 200' abuts against the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110, the second surface 202' of the corresponding top plate 200' is approximately flush with the top surface 111 of the corresponding side portion 110, and the entire corresponding top plate 200' is positioned outward from the corresponding side portion 110. The corresponding top panel 200' positioned in this open position is supported by the corresponding side portion 110 via each hinge 300, and the third surface 203' of the lower side portion 210' abuts against the outer surface 113 of the corresponding side portion 110.

[0092] When each hinge 300, the corresponding table top 200', and the corresponding side 110 of the table T2 have the configuration (3) above, when the corresponding table top 200' is in the closed position (not shown), the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 open approximately 180 degrees, the third surface 203' of the lower side 210' of the corresponding table top 200' abuts against the inner surface 114 of the corresponding side 110, the first surface 201' of the corresponding table top 200' is approximately flush with the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side 110, and the entire corresponding table top 200' is positioned inside the corresponding side 110 to partially close the first opening H1 of the frame 100. The corresponding table top 200' in this closed position is supported by the corresponding side 110 via each hinge 300, and the third surface 203' of the lower side 210' abuts against the inner surface 114 of the corresponding side 110. On the other hand, when the corresponding table top 200' is positioned in the open position (not shown), the first blade 310 and the second blade 320 overlap (face each other), and a first area of the lower side 210' of the corresponding table top 200' abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side 110, so that the portion of the corresponding table top 200' above the lower side 210' is positioned outward from the corresponding side 110. In this way, the corresponding table top 200' positioned in the open position is supported by the corresponding side 110 via each hinge 300, and the first area of the lower side 210' abuts against the upper surface 111 of the corresponding side 110.

[0093] It is possible to omit two or more hinges 300. In this case, the corresponding side portion 110 and the corresponding top plate 200' may have the configuration (4) above.

[0094] The table T2 may further include four or more suspension portions 400. Each suspension portion 400 of the table T2 has the same configuration as each suspension portion 400 of the table T1 in any of the above-described aspects.

[0095] When the frame 100 is approximately rectangular annular in plan view, the number of suspension parts 400 is four, and half of the suspension parts 400 (some of the suspension parts 400) abut from below against one of the two top plates 200' that is positioned in the closed position, and the remaining half of the suspension parts 400 (another part of the suspension parts 400) abut from below against the other top plate 200'.

[0096] When the frame 100 is approximately octagonal annular in plan view, the number of suspension parts 400 is eight, and half of the suspension parts 400 (some of the suspension parts 400) abut from below one of the two tabletops 200' positioned in the closed position, and the remaining half of the suspension parts 400 (another part of the suspension parts 400) abut from below the other tabletop 200'.

[0097] When the frame 100 has a substantially hexagonal ring shape in a plan view, the number of suspension parts 400 is six. Two suspension parts 400 (some of the suspension parts 400) of the six suspension parts 400 abut from below one of the two top plates 200′ positioned in the closed position, two other suspension parts 400 (another part of the suspension parts 400) abut from below the other top plate 200′, and the remaining two suspension parts 400 (the remaining suspension parts 400) abut from below the two top plates 200′ positioned in the closed position.

[0098] It is possible to omit the suspension parts 400 that are four or more.

[0099] The table T2 further includes a plurality of legs 500. Each leg 500 of the table T2 has the same configuration as each leg 500 of the table T1.

[0100] The table T2 may further include four or more locking portions 600. Each locking portion 600 of the table T2 has the same configuration as each locking portion 600 of the table T1 in any of the above-described embodiments. Note that four or more locking portions 600 can be omitted.

[0101] The folding table T2 as described above has the following technical features and effects (1) to (4).

[0102] (1) The table T2 can be used not only in an embodiment in which the two table tops 200' are positioned in the closed position to close the first opening H1 and the two table tops 200' are used as a single table top, but also in an embodiment in which the two table tops 200' are positioned in the open position to open the first opening H1 and the two table tops 200' are positioned on both sides of the first opening H1. With the two table tops 200' positioned in the open position, the space within the first opening H1 can be used as a space for placing an outdoor heating cooker such as a barbecue grill or a fire pit, or as a space for making a bonfire on the ground below the first opening H1.

[0103] (2) When the two opposing side portions 110, the two tabletops 200', and the two or more hinges 300 have the configuration (1) or (2) above, when the two tabletops 200' are positioned in the closed position, the second surfaces 202' of the two tabletops 200' abut against the upper surfaces 111 of the two opposing side portions 110 and the upper surfaces 111 of one or more adjacent side portions 110, and when the two tabletops 200' are positioned in the open position, the third surfaces 203' of the lower side portions 210' of the two tabletops 200' abut against the outer surfaces 113 of the two opposing side portions 110. When the two opposing side portions 110, the two tabletops 200', and the two or more hinges 300 have the configuration (3) above, when the two tabletops 200' are positioned in the closed position, the third surfaces 203' of the lower side portions 210' of the two tabletops 200' abut against the inner surfaces 114 of the two opposing side portions 110, and when the two tabletops 200' are positioned in the open position, the first areas of the lower side portions 210' of the two tabletops 200' abut against the upper surfaces 111 of the two opposing side portions 110. Therefore, whether the two tabletops 200' are positioned in the closed position or the open position, the two tabletops 200' abut against the two side portions 110 and are stably supported.

[0104] (3) When four or more suspension parts 400 are provided, some of the four or more suspension parts 400 abut from below against one of the two table tops 200' positioned in the closed position, and some other suspension parts 400 abut from below against the other table top 200', thereby stabilizing the two table tops 200' in the closed position. Furthermore, when four or more suspension parts 400 have protrusions 420, even if there is a gap between some of the suspension parts 400 and one of the table tops 200' positioned in the closed position and a gap between another part of the suspension parts 400 and the other table top 200' positioned in the closed position, the protrusions 420 of some of the suspension parts 400 abut against one of the table tops 200' positioned in the closed position, and the protrusions 420 of another part of the suspension parts 400 abut against the other table top 200' positioned in the closed position.

[0105] (4) When magnets 430 are provided on four or more suspension sections 400, some of the suspension sections 400 are in contact from below with one of the tabletops 200' positioned in the closed position, and another part of the suspension sections 400 are in contact from below with the other of the tabletops 200' positioned in the closed position, and the magnets 430 of some of the suspension sections 400 are attracted to one of the tabletops 200', and the magnets 430 of some of the suspension sections 400 are attracted to the other of the tabletops 200'. When the magnets 430 are provided on the two tabletops 200', some of the suspension parts 400 are in contact from below with one tabletop 200' positioned in the closed position, and another part of the suspension parts 400 are in contact from below with the other tabletop 200' positioned in the closed position, and some of the suspension parts 400 are attracted to the magnets 430 of one tabletop 200', and another part of the suspension parts 400 are attracted to the magnets 430 of the other tabletop 200'. This makes it easier to maintain the two tabletops 200' in the closed position.

[0106] The folding table described above is not limited to the above embodiment, and can be modified in any manner within the scope of the claims.

[0107] The frame 100 of the table T1 described above can be formed in a substantially polygonal ring shape other than a substantially regular polygonal ring shape in a plan view.

[0108] The shapes of the three or more tabletops 200 of the table T1 described above can be determined arbitrarily. For example, the three or more tabletops 200 described above may be substantially trapezoidal in shape other than a substantially isosceles trapezoid, or substantially triangular in shape other than a substantially isosceles triangle. In either case, in each of the three or more pairs of adjacent tabletops 200, the first oblique side portion 230 of one tabletop 200 may or may not contact the second oblique side portion 240 of the other tabletop 200 in the closed position. The shape and size of each of the three or more tabletops 200 may be appropriately determined so that the first oblique side portion 230 of one tabletop 200 contacts the second oblique side portion 240 of the other tabletop 200. When three or more tabletops 200 are trapezoidal in shape other than an approximately isosceles trapezoid and in the closed position, and in each of the three or more sets, the first oblique side portion 230 of one of two adjacent tabletops 200 contacts the second oblique side portion 240 of the other tabletop 200, the upper side portions 220 of the three or more tabletops 200 define a second opening H2 that is approximately polygonal in plan view.

[0109] The shapes of the three or more table tops 200' of the table T2 can also be determined arbitrarily.

[0110] When the suspension portions 400 of the tables T1 and T2 are omitted, the magnets 430 may be provided on three or more sides 110 of the frame 100. [Explanation of symbols]

[0111] T1, T2: Folding table 100: Frame 110: Side 111: Top surface 112: Bottom surface 113: Outside surface 114: Inside surface 200, 200': Top plate 201, 201': 1st side 202, 202': 2nd side 203, 203': 3rd side 210, 210': Lower side portion 220, 220': Upper side portion 230: First oblique side portion 240: Second oblique side portion 300: Hinge 310: First blade 320: Second blade 330: Shaft 400: Suspension part 410: Suspension body 420: Protrusion 430: Magnet 500: Feet 510: Foot body 600: Stop 610: Fastening part body 620: Fastening hole 621: First hole 622: Second hole 630: Fastening recessed part H1: 1st opening H2: 2nd opening R1: 1st angle R2: 2nd angle R3: 3rd angle

Claims

1. a frame having a substantially polygonal ring shape in a plan view; It has three or more top plates, the frame has three or more sides and a first opening defined by the three or more sides, the three or more top panels are supported on the three or more sides of the frame so as to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position; the closed position is a position in which the three or more top panels are at least partially positioned inside the three or more side portions to close the first opening and are in a substantially first horizontal state; The open position is a position in which the three or more tabletops are at least partially positioned outward from the three or more sides of the folding table, and are in a substantially second horizontal state.

2. 2. The folding table of claim 1, The three or more top plates include three or more pairs of two top plates adjacent to each other in the closed position, The three or more top plates are substantially trapezoidal in shape and have a lower side, an upper side, a first oblique side, and a second oblique side, the bottom side portions of the three or more tabletops are supported by the three or more side portions of the frame so as to be rotatable between the closed position and the open position, In each of the three or more sets, when the two adjacent tabletops are positioned at the closed position, the first oblique side portion of one of the two adjacent tabletops contacts the second oblique side portion of the other tabletop, A folding table in which the upper edge portions of the three or more tabletops positioned in the closed position define a second opening that is approximately polygonal in plan view.

3. 2. The folding table of claim 1, The three or more top plates include three or more pairs of two top plates adjacent to each other in the closed position, The three or more top plates are substantially triangular in shape and have a bottom side, a first oblique side, and a second oblique side, the bottom side portions of the three or more tabletops are supported by the three or more side portions of the frame so as to be rotatable between the closed position and the open position, In each of the three or more sets of folding tables, when the two adjacent tabletops are positioned in the closed position, the first oblique side portion of one of the two adjacent tabletops contacts the second oblique side portion of the other tabletop.

4. The folding table according to claim 2 or 3, Further comprising three or more hinges, The three or more hinges each have a first blade, a second blade, and a shaft portion connecting the first blade and the second blade, the first blades of the three or more hinges are fixed to the bottom side portions of the three or more top panels, the second blades of the three or more hinges are fixed to the three or more sides of the frame; A folding table in which, when the three or more tabletops are positioned in the closed position, the first blades and the second blades of the three or more hinges overlap, and the lower edge portions of the three or more tabletops abut the upper surfaces of the three or more sides of the frame, while, when the three or more tabletops are positioned in the open position, the first blades of the three or more hinges open approximately 180 degrees relative to the second blades, and the lower edge portions of the three or more tabletops abut the outer surfaces of the three or more sides of the frame.

5. The folding table according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising three or more suspensions; Each of the three or more suspension parts is suspended from two adjacent sides of the three or more sides and abuts the two adjacent tabletops from below when they are in the closed position.

6. The folding table according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising three or more hinges and three or more suspensions; The three or more hinges each have a first blade, a second blade, and a shaft portion connecting the first blade and the second blade, the first blades of the three or more hinges are fixed to the bottom side portions of the three or more top panels, the second blades of the three or more hinges are fixed to the three or more sides of the frame; When the three or more top plates are positioned at the closed position, the first blades and the second blades of the three or more hinges overlap, while when the three or more top plates are positioned at the open position, the first blades of the three or more hinges open at approximately 180 degrees relative to the second blades, Each of the three or more suspension parts has a suspension part main body suspended on two adjacent sides of the three or more side parts; The suspension body has a protruding portion on the upper side, The folding table has the protrusions abutting the two adjacent tabletops from below when the tabletops are in the closed position.

7. 6. The folding table according to claim 5, the three or more top plates are made of a ferromagnetic material, the three or more suspension portions have magnets; A folding table in which the magnets of each of the three or more suspension parts are attracted to the two adjacent tabletops positioned in the closed position from below.

8. 6. The folding table according to claim 5, the three or more suspension parts are made of a ferromagnetic material, the three or more top plates have magnets; A folding table in which each of the three or more suspension parts is attracted to the magnets of the two adjacent tabletops that are positioned in the closed position.

9. 7. The folding table according to claim 6, the three or more top plates are made of a ferromagnetic material, the protrusions of the three or more suspensions have magnets; A folding table in which the magnets of each of the three or more suspension parts are attracted to the two adjacent tabletops positioned in the closed position from below.

10. a frame having a substantially even polygonal ring shape in a plan view; It has two top plates, the frame has four or more sides and a first opening defined by the four or more sides, The two top panels are supported on two opposing sides of the four or more sides of the frame so as to be rotatable between a closed position and an open position, The closed position is a position in which the two top plates are at least partially positioned inside the two side portions to close the first opening and are in a substantially first horizontal state; The open position of the folding table is a position in which the two tabletops are at least partially positioned outside the two sides and are in a substantially second horizontal state.

11. The folding table according to claim 1 or 10, The folding table further comprises a plurality of legs rotatably or detachably attached to the frame.

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