Table, table tennis table, and table tennis set

Abstract

To constitute a table tennis table which prevents a position deviation between tables only by combining the plurality of tables.SOLUTION: A table 1 includes: a top board 2; length-adjustable support legs arranged on a lower surface of the top board; and a rubber part 15 for covering a peripheral side surface 13 of the top board. The rubber part is arranged to cover a portion from a connection part 13a between a peripheral side wall of the top board 2 and an upper surface to a connection part 13b with a lower surface, and a part 15c for covering the connection part 13a with the upper surface is flush with the upper surface. When the plurality of tables 1 are assembled, the rubber parts 15 are abutted each other when a table tennis is constituted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a table, a table tennis table and a table tennis set. [Background technology]

[0002] In childcare facilities such as nurseries, kindergartens and schools, it is sometimes necessary to make effective use of small spaces while being able to carry out a variety of activities smoothly. In such facilities, it is being considered to incorporate table tennis into children's exercise.

[0003] However, the tabletop dimensions of a typical international standard official table tennis table are large, measuring 274 cm in length and 152.5 cm in width, so even a separate (two-piece) type takes up a lot of space when installed.

[0004] Therefore, it has been proposed to create a table tennis table of the size required for ball games by assembling multiple small tables together, as described in Patent Document 1. When using such small tables, they are easy to set up, store, and handle even in a small space, and have the advantage of being highly versatile, since they can be used individually or multiple tables can be combined to form a table tennis table. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Registered Utility Model No. 3227840 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, when combining small tables to form a ping-pong table as described above, there is a problem that the tables move and become misaligned. While it is possible to provide a mechanism to secure the tables so that they do not easily move, this would make the structure complicated and cumbersome to use. Furthermore, in facilities where young children live, safety is a priority, so it is undesirable to provide a mechanism that is unnecessary when using a single table.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and one of its purposes is to provide a table that can be used to create a highly safe table tennis table that is less likely to become misaligned with other tables, simply by combining multiple tables. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the table according to the present invention has the following features. A top plate having a rectangular shape in a plan view and having an upper surface, a lower surface, and a peripheral side surface connecting the upper surface and the lower surface; Support legs provided on the lower surface to support the top plate; a rubber portion provided to cover the peripheral side surface from a connection portion with the upper surface to a connection portion with the lower surface, the portion covering at least the connection portion with the upper surface being flush with the upper surface; Equipped with table.

[0009] The table tennis table according to the present invention has the following features. A table tennis table made by combining multiple tables listed above.

[0010] Furthermore, the table tennis set according to the present invention has the following features: The table tennis table mentioned above, a racket having a striking plate, a handle connected to the striking plate, and an elastic sheet attached to the front and back surfaces of the striking plate, the outer periphery of the elastic sheet extending outward beyond the outer periphery of the striking plate; Equipped with Table tennis set. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, by providing a rubber portion on the peripheral side of the tabletop, when multiple tables are placed adjacent to each other with their peripheral sides in close contact, the contact between the rubber portions prevents slippage and prevents the tables from shifting position relative to each other. Furthermore, the upper end of the rubber portion on the peripheral side (the portion covering the connection with the upper surface of the peripheral side of the tabletop) is flush with the upper surface of the tabletop and does not protrude beyond the upper surface of the tabletop. Therefore, even when multiple tables are combined to be used as a ping-pong table, the joints between the two tables form a continuous plane with the upper surface of the tabletop. Therefore, even if a table tennis ball hits the joint, it is possible to minimize any unusual rebound, allowing for a natural ball game to be played.

[0012] The present invention has been briefly described above. The details of the present invention will become clearer by reading the following detailed description of the invention (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a table top according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a plan view, (b) is a side view of the long side, and (c) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of part A in (b). [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the table of the same embodiment. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a perspective view showing the table of the embodiment set to a height for an infant. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of a table tennis table constructed by combining four tables of the same embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the rubber parts at the joints of the table tops of adjacent tables and the position where the ball hits when a table tennis table is constructed. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 shows a specific example of the configuration of the support legs, where (a) is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of one support leg, and (b) is a longitudinal sectional view of the main part of (a). [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a table according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a specific example of the configuration of the support legs in this embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a scale for the table height. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the scale for the table height. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a side view showing another example of the support leg. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the peripheral side of the table top of another embodiment of the present invention, and is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the joint between the table tops of adjacent tables when multiple tables are brought together to form a ping-pong table. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the peripheral side of the table top of yet another embodiment of the present invention, and is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the joint between the table tops of adjacent tables when multiple tables are brought together to form a ping-pong table. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view of a table tennis table made up of eight smaller tables. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a plan view of a table tennis table made up of 12 smaller tables. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows an example of a table tennis racket used with a table tennis table, where (a) is a front view and (b) is a side cross-sectional view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram of the configuration of the table top of a first embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a plan view, (b) is a side view of the long side, and (c) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of part A in (b). Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B are perspective views of the table, where Fig. 2A shows the table set to adult height and Fig. 2B shows the table set to infant height. Fig. 3 is a plan view of a ping-pong table made up of four tables combined, and Fig. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the rubber parts of the joints of the table tops of adjacent tables and the position where the ball hits when the ping-pong table is made up.

[0015] The dimensions of an official international standard table tennis table are length Y = 274 cm, width X = 152.5 cm, and height H = 76 cm. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, table 1 of this embodiment is configured as a small, independent table with a table top 2 that is the size of an official-size table tennis table T divided lengthwise and widthwise into four (length Y1 = 137 cm, width X1 = 76.25 cm). Therefore, by combining four of these tables 1, two arranged lengthwise and two arranged widthwise, an official-size table tennis table can be configured.

[0016] This table 1 is intended to be provided in facilities where children live, such as nurseries and kindergartens. To ensure safety when a child comes into contact with the table, as shown in FIG. 1(a), the four corners 2a of the rectangular top plate 2 in plan view are rounded with a constant radius (R). Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the underside of the top plate 2 is provided with height-adjustable (length-adjustable) support legs 3 that support the top plate 2 horizontally. The support legs 3 have detachable attachment legs (lower legs 3b and connecting bars 5, described later; see FIG. 2A), allowing the table 1 to be adjusted between infant and adult heights. Furthermore, the support legs 3 have a sliding structure, allowing the height of the table 1 for infants to be adjusted depending on the age of the child. Details of the support legs 3 will be described later.

[0017] As shown in Figures 1(a) and 1(b), the tabletop 2 is a flat plate having an upper surface 11, a lower surface 12, and a peripheral side surface (peripheral edge surface) 13. The peripheral side surface 13 connects the upper surface 11 and the lower surface 12 and is perpendicular to the upper surface 11 and the lower surface 12. The entire peripheral side surface 13 of the tabletop 2, including the long side 13S, the short side 13T, and the four rounded corners 2a, is covered with a rubber portion 15. As shown in Figure 1(c), the rubber portion 15 is arranged so that the connection portion (upper edge corner) 13a of the peripheral side surface 13 with the upper surface 11 and the connection portion (lower edge corner) 13b of the peripheral side surface 13 with the lower surface 12 are continuous with a flat portion. The corners of the desk (the joint lines between the horizontally extending upper surface 11 and lower surface 12 and the vertically extending end surfaces of the tabletop 2) are covered with the rubber portion 15 and not exposed to the tabletop 2. At least a portion 15c (the upper edge of the rubber portion 15) covering the connection portion 13a with the top surface 11 of the rubber portion 15 is flush with the top surface 11 of the top board 2.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1(c), the rubber portion 15 has a lower half 15a near the bottom surface 12 that is thicker than the upper half 15b near the top surface 11. The peripheral side (outer surface) of the thicker lower half 15a is perpendicular to the top surface 11 and the bottom surface 12. In other words, when viewed in vertical cross section, the peripheral side of the lower half 15a of the rubber portion 15 is linear and perpendicular to the top surface 11 and the bottom surface 12 of the top plate 2. The upper half 15b of the rubber portion 15 has a thickness gradient that decreases from the connection with the lower half 15a toward the top surface. In other words, if the thickness of the lower half 15a, which has a constant thickness, is n1, the thickness n2 of the upper edge of the upper half 15b is set to approximately one-tenth of n1. Specifically, if n1 is 5 mm, n2 is set to approximately 1 mm to 0.5 mm. The rubber portion 15 has large and small rounded corners at necessary locations to prevent any edges (corners) from appearing on the outer surface.

[0019] In this way, by rounding the four corners 2a of the rectangular top plate 2 when viewed from above with an R (radius), and by providing rubber parts 15 on all of the peripheral side surfaces 13 of the top plate 2, safety when used by children can be improved.

[0020] Furthermore, by providing rubber portions 15 on the peripheral side surface 13 of the table top 2, as shown in FIG. 3, four tables 1 can be arranged adjacent to each other with the peripheral sides 13 of the table tops 2 tightly contacting each other to form a table tennis table T. The symbol N in FIG. 3 indicates a net that divides the court in half. When four tables 1 are arranged adjacent to each other, the contact between the rubber portions 15 prevents them from sliding relative to each other, preventing the multiple tables 1 from shifting out of position. For example, in FIG. 3, the long and short sides of the table top 2 indicated by 13T and 13S are in tight contact with each other, and the anti-slip effect of the rubber portions 15 located on the contacting surfaces prevents the tables 1 from shifting out of position.

[0021] In this case, the peripheral side surface (outer peripheral surface) of the lower half 15a of the rubber part 15 covering the peripheral side surface 13 of the table top 2 is configured as a surface perpendicular to the upper surface 11 and lower surface 12 of the table top 2. With this configuration, when the peripheral side surfaces 13 of the two table tops 2 are butted together, these perpendicular surfaces come together, creating a stable and wide contact surface. This improves adhesion, and the rubber part 15 has a greater effect of preventing slippage.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1(a), a logo mark 4 is provided on the top surface 11 of one short side 13T of the table top 2. This logo mark 4 is provided to indicate where to attach the net N when four tables 1 are assembled together to form the table tennis table T, as shown in FIG. 3. The table tennis table T can be constructed by vertically positioning the tables 1 and butting them together so that the logo marks 4 align. The logo mark 4 is formed flat on the top surface 11 of the table top 2 to prevent unevenness. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, if the logo mark 4 is formed by embedding resin into the table top 2, the top surface 4a of the logo mark 4 is processed to be flush with the top surface 11 of the table top 2. Furthermore, while differences in the material (e.g., a melamine resin-coated surface) between the portion where the logo mark 4 is formed and the top surface 11 of the table top 2 affect the reflection of the table tennis ball, the logo mark 4 is located where the net is installed, preventing the ball from hitting the net. This structure allows the position of the net on the table 1 to be determined, facilitating adjustment of the table's position and height. The logo mark 4 part is not limited to the logo mark and can be other marks.

[0023] Furthermore, the upper end of the rubber portion 15 on the peripheral side surface 13 of the table top 2 is flush with the upper surface 11 of the table top 2 and does not protrude beyond that, making the contact width P (see Figure 4) between the table top 2 and the rubber portion 15 zero or extremely narrow. The joint between the table tops 2 of the two tables 1 forms a flat surface that is continuous with the upper surface 11 of the table top 2, and the upper half 15b of the rubber portion 15 has a steep slope, so the table tennis ball 100 rarely hits the rubber portion 15. Even if the table tennis ball 100 hits the joint, the upper end of the rubber portion 15 forms a flat surface that is continuous with the upper surface 11 of the table top 2, minimizing the likelihood of an abnormal rebound. In particular, the upper half 15b of the rubber portion 15 is thinner than the lower half 15a where it is butted, so that even if butting pressure (pressing force) is applied to the rubber portion 15, it will not rise above the upper surface 11 of the table top 2. Therefore, the table tennis ball 100 does not come into contact with the raised portion, and an abnormal rebound can be avoided.

[0024] Furthermore, because the thickness of the upper edge of the rubber portion 15 is small, even when the table tennis ball 100 hits the rubber portion 15, the contact width P (see FIG. 4) between the table tennis ball 100 and the rubber portion 15 can be kept very small. Therefore, even if the table tennis ball 100 hits the rubber portion 15, the slight contact can minimize any abnormal rebound. Furthermore, although the thickness of the upper edge of the rubber portion 15 is very small, the rubber portion 15 still covers the connection portion 13a between the top surface 11 and the peripheral side surface 13 of the table top 2 (the upper edge of the table top 2), so it is possible to reliably prevent any abnormal rebound that may occur in a definite direction when the table tennis ball 100 hits the edge. This makes it possible to play ball games without any discomfort.

[0025] The rubber portion 15 may be formed by attaching a thin rubber sheet, by applying or spraying a rubber-based paint or foaming agent, or by molding it with resin. The rubber portion 15 may be made of a soft rubber or vinyl-like resin material. The rubber portion 15 is preferably made of a safe material, such as a material that meets the safety standards for toys for infants and young children under the Food Sanitation Act, and is also preferably made of a material that allows the rubber portions 15 to press against each other to fix the table 1 in place. Considering that the table 1 will be used for children's school lunches and crafts, the surface of the top plate 2 may be coated with melamine resin for safety and hygiene reasons. Furthermore, assuming that the table 1 will be used as a ping-pong table, white lines may be drawn where necessary.

[0026] Conventional ping-pong tables have the drawbacks of being too high for young children to exercise on, and requiring a large storage area. Furthermore, adjusting the height of the table to accommodate young children makes it difficult for adults to use. Furthermore, tables for infants and toddlers are low in height and cannot be used as adult tables. When adults use tables for infants and toddlers for office work, for example, they end up in unnatural positions for long periods of time, putting strain on the lower back and shoulders, leading to problems such as stiff shoulders and lower back pain. However, providing a separate table for adults requires storage space, making it difficult to store both in limited childcare spaces.

[0027] Therefore, it is conceivable to make the table height adjustable between infant and adult sizes. A technology for adjusting the table height has been proposed in the past, which involves attaching detachable legs to the table's support legs. To make a regular table adjustable between infant and adult heights, it is conceivable to add short legs to use it like a low table for adults. However, in the case of table tennis tables, the height for adults is fixed at 77 cm, and the height of the table legs must be more than twice the original height. If individual legs are used to increase the leg height to more than twice the original height, the table will lack stability and be difficult to use for sports.

[0028] Furthermore, because infants and toddlers grow particularly rapidly (in height) over the course of a year, playing table tennis at an appropriate height requires adjusting the height according to age, necessitating separate height settings for infants and toddlers and adult height adjustments. Furthermore, to ensure a safe childcare environment for infants and toddlers, whose height growth is particularly rapid over the course of a year, table height must be adjusted annually. Annual legal amendments often require changes to class sizes by age. This increases the need for height-adjustable tables for infants and toddlers. However, extending the legs of a height-adjustable table for infants and toddlers to adult height can result in instability and safety concerns. While an unstable table is not a major problem for simple use, such as camping or emergencies, when used in kindergartens and daycare centers, it can become unstable or change in height when children apply pressure, posing safety concerns.

[0029] Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the support legs 3 of the table 1 are configured to be adjustable in height H of the table top 2. The support legs 3 have the lower legs 3b and connecting bar 5 shown in Figure 2A, so that the height of the table 1 can be changed between a height for infants and a height for adults. Furthermore, the support legs 3 have a sliding structure, so that the height of the table 1 can be adjusted to suit the age, physique, etc. of the infant.

[0030] In this embodiment, the height H of the tabletop 2 can be adjusted by adjusting the length of the support legs 3. As a specific configuration example, the support legs 3 are configured to include upper legs 3a fixed perpendicularly to the underside 12 of the tabletop 2, lower legs 3b supported on the floor, and intermediate legs 3c interposed between the upper legs 3a and the lower legs 3b. As shown in FIG. 5 , the length Ha of the support legs 3 can be set for an adult when the upper legs 3a, lower legs 3b, and intermediate legs 3c are connected. Furthermore, the lower legs 3b of the support legs 3 are configured to be detachable from the intermediate legs 3c, so that the length Ha of the support legs 3 can be set for an infant when the lower legs 3b are removed. Furthermore, the support leg 3 has a height-adjusting rubber 6 attached to the lower end of the middle leg 3c, which improves the stability of the table 1, which is set at a height suitable for infants and young children, when the lower leg 3b is removed, i.e., when the middle leg 3c is attached to the upper leg 3a.

[0031] The intermediate leg 3c is slidably fitted to the upper leg 3a, and by changing the sliding position, the overall length (total height) of the support leg 3, specifically the length Hb from the upper end of the upper leg 3a to the lower end of the height adjustment rubber 6 attached to the lower end of the intermediate leg 3c, can be adjusted.

[0032] In this way, the lower leg 3b of the support leg 3 is detachable, so that the support leg 3 can be used for both adults and children. Furthermore, the support leg 3 has a sliding structure, which makes the support leg 3 extendable and retractable, and the length Hb of the support leg 3 when the lower leg 3b is detached can be adjusted. Therefore, the length Hb of the support leg 3 is freely adjustable (the length Hb of the support leg 3 is variable), so that the height H from the floor surface to the upper surface of the tabletop 2 can be changed.

[0033] The lower legs 3b of the four support legs 3 are connected in pairs by connecting bars 5 to form an H shape, ensuring stability. The upper legs 3a, lower legs 3b, and middle legs 3c that make up each support leg 3 are all made of square pipes, but each member that makes up the support leg 3 may also be made of cylindrical pipes.

[0034] FIG. 5 shows a specific example of the configuration of the support leg 3, where (a) is a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of one support leg 3, and (b) is a longitudinal sectional view of the main part of (a).

[0035] The support leg 3 is composed of an upper leg 3a made of a square pipe fixed perpendicularly to the underside 12 of the tabletop 2, a lower leg 3b made of a square pipe supported on the floor, and an intermediate leg 3c made of a square pipe interposed between the upper leg 3a and the lower leg 3b. The square pipe constituting the intermediate leg 3c is slightly smaller in size than the upper and lower legs 3a and 3b. The intermediate leg 3c is fitted and fixed to the lower leg 3b by fitting the lower half of the intermediate leg 3c into the upper end of the lower leg 3b with a height-adjusting rubber 6 attached to its lower end. The upper end of the intermediate leg 3c protruding from the upper end of the lower leg 3b is inserted into the interior of the upper leg 3a from below so as to be slidable in the direction of arrow Z (up and down).

[0036] An engagement pin 9, which is movable by a spring 9a, is provided on the peripheral wall of the portion of the intermediate leg 3c that slides into the upper leg 3a. Meanwhile, a plurality of engagement holes 7 (7a to 7e) are provided at intervals in the vertical direction on the peripheral wall of the upper leg 3a, with which the engagement pin 9 of the intermediate leg 3c selectively engages. By sliding the intermediate leg 3c and engaging it with any of the engagement holes 7 in the upper leg 3a, the intermediate leg 3c can be fixed to the upper leg 3a at the slid position. This allows the length of the support leg 3 to be adjusted when the table 1 is used for an infant, i.e., when the table is used with the lower leg 3b detached.

[0037] In this example, five engagement holes 7a to 7e are provided corresponding to the heights (five height levels) of the support legs 3 for infants. Corresponding scales 17 and marks are provided on the engagement holes 7a to 7e. In this example, scales 17 ranging from "1 (for 1 year old)" to "5 (for 5 year olds)" are provided for infants in order from top to bottom. The scales 17 are not essential. In addition, protective resin rings 8 are attached around each engagement hole 7a to 7e to prevent the engagement pins 9 from being unintentionally pushed in by a child's foot when the engagement pins 9 are engaged with the engagement holes 7. In other words, the height of the protective rings 8 is set to be equal to or slightly greater than the height of the engagement pins 9 protruding from the engagement holes 7, thereby preventing the engagement pins 9 from being easily pushed in.

[0038] In this example, when the length Ha of the support leg 3 is set for an adult, as shown in FIG. 5, by engaging the engagement pin 9 with the central engagement hole 7d, fitting the lower leg 3b onto the lower end of the middle leg 3c, and fastening and fixing it with a fastener 10, it is possible to prevent wobbling of the table 1 and improve stability. By providing a mark such as a notch indicating the engagement hole 7d on the support leg 3, it is possible to improve the workability when attaching the lower leg 3b. It is important that the middle leg 3c is long, and it is more than half the length of the upper leg 3a. When attaching the lower leg 3b, it is set so that about half the length of the middle leg 3c protrudes (the height of a 4-year-old child). In this state, the middle leg 3c is housed in the hollow portion of the lower leg 3b, and the lower edge of the upper leg 3a is tightly connected to the upper edge of the lower leg 3b, thereby preventing wobbling between the upper leg 3a and the lower leg 3b. Furthermore, by fastening the lower leg 3b to the middle leg 3c with the fastener 10, more stable use is possible. Since the upper leg 3a and the lower leg 3b have the same diameter and shape, the upper leg 3a and the lower leg 3b can be easily and tightly connected, and the long length of the middle leg 3c allows for stable use. By making the upper leg 3a, the lower leg 3b, and the middle leg 3c rectangular prism-shaped, wobbling can be further prevented. Reducing wobbling is an extremely important issue in table structures, and this simple structure allows for height adjustment and stabilization at heights of more than twice the normal height, which was previously difficult.

[0039] In this way, the length Ha of the support legs 3 can be adjusted by attaching or detaching the lower legs 3b and changing the sliding and fixing position of the middle legs 3c relative to the upper legs 3a, thereby adjusting the height H from the floor surface to the top surface of the tabletop 2. Therefore, the table 1 can be used for both adults and children.

[0040] Table tennis has not been considered a sport for infants and young children, and no consideration has been given to playing on a table of an appropriate height for their age. When infants and young children play table tennis as a sport, playing on a table that is too high for their height may not provide the desired exercise or educational benefits, or may even hinder them. However, until now, no specific configuration has been proposed for how to adjust the height of the table as the child grows.

[0041] Therefore, in this embodiment, by making it possible to adjust the height of the table 1 (table top 2) using the support legs 3 as described above, infants can use the table 1 at a height appropriate for their age, making it possible to play table tennis more effectively as a sport. In other words, by appropriately changing the height of the table 1 according to the age of the user (infant), it becomes possible to exercise comfortably in accordance with their growth. Furthermore, by playing table tennis using the table 1 adjusted to a height appropriate for their age, it is possible for the child to continuously learn table tennis strokes and the like as they grow without losing their form.

[0042] Specifically, the height of Table 1 corresponds to age: 32cm for 0-year-olds, 36cm for 1-year-olds, 40cm for 2-year-olds, 44cm for 3-year-olds, 48cm for 4-year-olds, 52cm for 5-year-olds, 56cm for 1st grade (first grade of elementary school; same below), 60cm for 2nd grade, 64cm for 3rd grade, 68cm for 4th grade, 72cm for 5th grade, and 76cm for adults. Sixth grade and above play at adult height. Scale 17 indicates the age as of April 1, the first day of the school year. For example, a 3-year-old refers to a child who turns 3 on April 1. In kindergarten, this refers to a child in the youngest grade, and a child is considered 3 years old until March 31 of the year they turn 4. In other words, the same height scale 5 is used throughout the year from April 1 to the end of the same grade. Table 1 includes scale 5, which indicates the age of the child, making it easy to adjust the height to suit the age of the infant when playing table tennis. When two players of different ages (grades) play against each other, the height of the table 1 can be easily adjusted by basically adjusting it to the younger age (grade).In addition, by setting the support legs 3 with the lower legs 3b attached so that the height of the table top 2 is the international standard height for adults (76 cm), the table can be used for practice in official matches, and adults such as childcare workers can also use it as a table tennis table.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a table according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The table 21 of the second embodiment has the same configuration as the top plate 2, and differs from the first embodiment only in the structure of the support legs 23.

[0044] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a specific example of the configuration of the support leg 23, Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the scale for the table height, and Fig. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the scale for the table height.

[0045] 6 and 7, support leg 23 is configured by combining fixed leg portion 23a, which is the upper half fixed vertically to underside 12 of tabletop 2, with movable leg portion 23b, which is the lower half slidably fitted onto fixed leg portion 23a. Fixed leg portion 23a is configured as a circular or square pipe, and movable leg portion 23b, which is similarly configured as a pipe one size smaller than fixed leg portion 23a, is slidably inserted into fixed leg portion 23a. Movable leg portion 23b can be fixed by screw portion 26 after being adjusted to various height positions.

[0046] The movable leg 23b can be fixed to the fixed leg 23a by, for example, passing a screw 26 through through holes provided in the fixed leg 23a and the movable leg 23b and tightening the screw 26. The screw 26 is composed of a combination of a male screw 26a and a female screw 26b. When using the table 1, the support leg 23 can be fixed at the adjusted height by passing the screw 26 through one of a plurality of through holes provided at appropriate intervals in the height direction on the movable leg 23b side.

[0047] In this case, the movable leg 23b is provided with a scale 25 to indicate the adjusted height of the tabletop 2. The scale 25 may be provided in increments of, for example, one to several centimeters so that the adjusted table height can be known in centimeters, but as shown in Fig. 8, it may also be provided in intervals (increments) according to age or grade so that the optimum table height can be known according to age or grade of elementary school. In other words, the support leg 23 may be provided with a scale indicating the age of the child for which the table is intended.

[0048] Furthermore, if it is desired to set different table heights for children of the same age or grade depending on the type of use, such as whether the table is used for lunch or for table tennis, it is also desirable to provide multiple lines of scales for different systems, as shown in FIG. 9. Scale 25a in FIG. 9 indicates the line of scales indicating the table height when used as a desk for lunch or work. Scale 25b in FIG. 9 indicates the line of scales indicating the table height when used for table tennis. In this way, by providing multiple types of scales 25a, 25b on support leg 23 according to the use of table 21, the height of table 21 can be easily adjusted depending on the type of use.

[0049] 7, a resin protective cover 27 is placed over the lower end of fixed leg portion 23a of support leg 23 to hide the step between fixed leg portion 23a and movable leg portion 23b, and this protective cover 27 protects the body from directly hitting the lower edge of fixed leg portion 23a. Furthermore, lower edge 27a of protective cover 27 is set as a reference position for reading scale 25, and by reading scale 25 on lower edge 27a of protective cover 27, the height of upper surface 11 of tabletop 2 at that time can be determined.

[0050] When the scale 25 is provided in this manner, the height of the tabletop 2 can be easily set according to differences in height while looking at the scale 25. Therefore, by changing the height of the tabletop 2, it can be used by people of all heights, from children to adults, for eating, playing table tennis, working, and so on.

[0051] FIG. 10 is a side view showing another example of a height-adjustable support leg on the underside of the table top. The support leg 30 can be adjusted to any desired height by appropriately combining multiple short blocks 32 of the same height (e.g., 4 cm) or long blocks 33 each having a height equivalent to several short blocks 32, and connecting these to the fixed block 31 on the underside of the tabletop 2. For example, by combining five short blocks 32 of a fixed height with any number of long blocks 33 each having a height equivalent to six short blocks 32, 0 to 11 different heights can be set. For example, by counting the height of one short block 32 as half the height difference of a one-year-old child, height adjustment for children from 0 to 11 years old is possible. By marking the short block 32 with a number 1 and the blocks with a length n times the length of the short block 32 with a number n, the total number of numbers on the blocks used in the support leg 30 indicates the appropriate age for the child. The maximum total number is 11, and for children 11 years and older, the height does not need to be adjusted and the child is the adult size.

[0052] The support legs 3 can be configured to be foldable, which is even more convenient for storage. Also, a display unit that serves as a substitute for the scale 15 may be provided. In addition, in the above embodiment, an example was given in which rubber parts 15 were provided on all of the peripheral side surfaces of the table top 2, but rubber parts 15 may also be provided only on the long side 13S and short side 13T (the peripheral side surfaces of two adjacent sides) that come into contact with each other when four tables 1 are placed adjacent to each other, as shown in Figure 3.

[0053] As a modified example of the method of providing the rubber portion covering the peripheral side surface of the top plate, examples such as those shown in Figs. 11 and 12 can be given.

[0054] 11, the connecting portions (upper and lower peripheral edges) of the peripheral side surface 13 of the tabletop 42 and the upper surface 11 and the lower surface 12 are chamfered with a radius r1 (= smaller than 1 / 2 the thickness t of the tabletop 2). As a result, a flat portion perpendicular to the upper surface 11 and the lower surface 12 of the tabletop 2 is formed in the center of the height direction of the peripheral side surface 13. A rubber portion 45 is provided to cover this peripheral side surface 13, and an upper edge 45c of the rubber portion 45 (the portion covering the connecting portion of the peripheral side surface 13 and the upper surface 11) is flush with the upper surface 11 of the tabletop 42.

[0055] In table 41 having such a top plate 42 configuration, when peripheral side surfaces 13 of top plates 42 are butted together, the flat surfaces mentioned above come together, creating a stable contact surface. Moreover, because rubber portions 45 are provided on these flat surfaces, the rubber portions 45 come into close contact with each other over a wide area, enhancing the anti-slip effect of rubber portions 45.

[0056] In addition, in the table 51 shown in FIG. 12 , the radius r2 of the chamfer of the peripheral side surface 13 of the tabletop 52 is set to exactly half the thickness t of the tabletop 2, and a rubber portion 55 is provided to cover the peripheral side surface 13, with the upper edge 55c of the rubber portion 55 (the portion covering the connection between the peripheral side surface 13 and the upper surface 11) being flush with the upper surface 11 of the tabletop 52. Therefore, a flat portion perpendicular to the upper surface 11 and the lower surface 12 of the tabletop 2 is not formed in the center of the height direction of the peripheral side surface 13, as in the example of FIG. 11 . As a result, when the peripheral side surfaces 13 of the two tabletops 52 are butted together, the contact surface becomes narrower, and the contact area between the rubber portions 55 becomes smaller, which is thought to slightly reduce the anti-slip effect of the rubber portion 15. However, in this example, the larger radius r2 of the chamfer provides the advantage of improving the impact absorption effect when a child bumps into it.

[0057] 11 and 12, the upper edges 45c, 55c (portions covering the joints between the peripheral side surfaces 13 and the top surface 11) of the rubber portions 45, 55 covering the peripheral side surfaces 13 of the table tops 42, 52 are flush with the top surface 11. Therefore, when multiple tables 41, 51 are combined to be used as a table tennis table T, even if the table tennis ball 100 hits the joint between the table tops 42, 52 of two tables 41, 51, the table tennis ball 100 will only make contact with the rubber portions 45, 55 over a small area. This minimizes the likelihood of the table tennis ball 100 rebounding unnaturally. In other words, even with the anti-slip rubber portions 45, 55 in place at the joints, it is possible to play ball games without feeling uncomfortable.

[0058] The radiused chamfered portion of the upper edge of the peripheral side surface 13 of the table tops 42, 52 is set to a size that prevents the table tennis ball 100 from getting stuck in the joint of the table. Furthermore, the upper and lower edges (corners of the upper and lower peripheral edges in the thickness direction) of the peripheral side surface 13 of the table tops 42, 52 only need to be radiused, and the shape is not limited to the examples shown in Figures 11 and 12. For example, in the example shown in Figure 12, the cross section of the radiused chamfered portion of the peripheral side surface 13 has a semicircular shape with a radius r2, but the cross section of the radiused chamfered portion may also have a semi-elliptical shape.

[0059] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which one ping-pong table was constructed by putting together four tables, but as shown in Fig. 13, it is also possible to prepare tables that are one-eighth the size of a standard-sized ping-pong table and put together eight tables 61 to construct one ping-pong table T. In this case, the size of the top board 62 of the table 61 is width X1 = 76.25 cm and length Y2 = 68.5 cm.

[0060] 14, tables that are 1 / 12 the size of a standard-sized table tennis table may be prepared, and 12 tables 71 may be gathered together to form one table tennis table T. In this case, the size of the table top 72 of the table 71 is width Y2 = 68.5 cm and length X3 = 50.83 cm.

[0061] These tables 61 and 71 are of a size that can be used alone as a desk for an elementary school student, and can be equipped with drawers as needed. In this case, the height of the tables 61 and 71 should be adjustable to 50, 58, 61, 64, 67, 70, 73, and 76 cm.

[0062] Figure 15 shows an example of a racket suitable for use with a table tennis table as a table tennis set when the table 1 of the above-mentioned embodiment is combined to form a table tennis table, (a) is a front view, and (b) is a side cross-sectional view.

[0063] A typical adult table tennis racket is too heavy for infants and young children, putting too much strain on the muscles. Also, when swinging the racket, there is a risk of injuring other children. Therefore, it is desirable for the racket used with the table tennis table combined with Table 1 to be a racket that is safe for infants and young children to swing.

[0064] As shown in Figures 15(a) and 15(b), this racket 110 has a hitting plate 111 and a handle 112 connected to the hitting plate 111. The hitting plate 111 has a hitting plate body 111a and a top sheet 111b and a back sheet 111b bonded to the front and back surfaces of the hitting plate body 111a. The racket 110 is a shakehand type, and the hitting plate body 111a and the handle 112 are made of wood to promote exercise. The hitting plate body 111a has a shape similar to that of a typical shakehand racket, with all sides rounded. In other words, the outer periphery of the hitting plate body 111a is chamfered in the thickness direction. This shape enhances safety when used by infants and young children. The outer periphery of the hitting plate 111 and the handle 112 is the same size as that of a typical compact table tennis racket. The outer peripheral edges of top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b, which are attached to the front and back surfaces of hitting plate main body 111a, extend outward beyond the outer peripheral edge of hitting plate main body 111a. Top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b are 3mm to 5mm thick sponge sheets made of foamed resin such as foamed polyethylene, with an adhesive sheet on their back surfaces. Top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b are an example of an elastic sheet. Hitting plate 111 is formed by attaching die-cut top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b to the front and back surfaces of hitting plate main body 111a. Hitting plate 111 is formed by extending outer peripheral edges 111c of top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b, which are attached to the front and back surfaces of hitting plate main body 111a, outward and attaching the extended outer peripheral edges 111c together. With this configuration, racket 110 has nearly the entire outer periphery of hitting plate 111 protected by top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b. That is, the outer periphery of hitting plate main body 111a, excluding the connection point with handle 112, is covered by outer periphery 111c of top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b. Top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b are bonded together with their outer peripheries 111c overlapping by approximately 2 millimeters. By bonding top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b together with their outer peripheries 111c overlapping by approximately 1 to 3 millimeters, top sheet 111b and back sheet 111b reliably cover hitting plate main body 111a, further increasing safety for infants and young children.Although known table tennis rubber can be used for the top sheet 111b and the back sheet 111b, using a rubber sheet increases the weight of the racket 110, which may be too heavy for small children. It is preferable to use a sponge sheet for the top sheet 111b and the back sheet 111b, as these can be easily handled by small children.

[0065] As described above, racket 110 of this embodiment uses a single thin plate as hitting board body 111a, thereby preventing excessive muscle strain on infants and young children. Furthermore, racket 110 has a rounded outer edge of hitting board body 111a, which reduces the risk of injury even if racket 110 is swung around and hits a nearby child. Furthermore, racket 110 has an elastic sheet covering substantially the entire periphery of hitting board body 111a, thereby improving safety when used by children.

[0066] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be appropriately modified, improved, etc. In addition, the material, shape, dimensions, numerical values, form, number, location, etc. of each component in the above-described embodiments are arbitrary and not limited as long as they can achieve the present invention.

[0067] Here, the features of the table, table tennis table, and table tennis set according to the above-described embodiments of the present invention will be briefly summarized and listed below in [1] to

[10] . [1] A top plate (2, 42, 52, 62, 72) having a rectangular shape in a plan view, the top plate (2, 42, 52, 62, 72) having an upper surface (11), a lower surface (12), and a peripheral side surface (13) connecting the upper surface and the lower surface; Support legs (3, 23, 30) provided on the lower surface to support the top plate; a rubber portion (15, 45, 55) provided to cover the peripheral side surface from a connecting portion (13a) with the upper surface to a connecting portion (13b) with the lower surface, and a portion (15c, 45c, 55c) covering at least the connecting portion (13a) with the upper surface being flush with the upper surface; Equipped with Tables (1, 21, 41, 51, 61, 71).

[0068] According to the table having the configuration [1] above, a rubber portion (15) is provided on the peripheral side (13) of the table top (2). With this configuration, when multiple tables (1, 21, 41, 51, 61, 71) are placed adjacent to each other with their peripheral sides in close contact, the contact between the rubber portions prevents slippage and prevents the tables from shifting relative to each other. Furthermore, since the upper edges (15c, 45c, 55c) of the rubber portions on the peripheral sides are flush with the top surface of the table top and do not protrude beyond the top surface of the table top, even when multiple tables are combined to be used as a table tennis table, the joints between the two tables form a continuous plane with the top surface of the table top. Therefore, even if a table tennis ball hits the joint, it is possible to minimize any unusual rebound, allowing for a natural ball game.

[0069] [2] The rubber portion (15) has a lower half (15a) close to the lower surface that is thicker than an upper half (15b) close to the upper surface, and the peripheral side surface of the thicker lower half is perpendicular to the upper and lower surfaces. The table described in [1] above.

[0070] According to the table of the above [2], when multiple tables are placed adjacent to each other with their peripheral sides in close contact with each other, the degree of contact between the rubber parts can be increased, which further prevents slippage and eliminates misalignment between the tables.

[0071] [3] The upper half (15b) of the rubber part (15) has a thickness gradient such that the thickness becomes thinner from the connection part with the lower half (15a) toward the upper surface (11). The table described in [2] above.

[0072] According to the table having the configuration [3] above, it is possible to prevent the rubber parts (15) from pushing against each other and bulging upward beyond the upper surface of the table top, thereby avoiding an abnormal rebound when a table tennis ball hits it.

[0073] [4] The support legs (3, 23, 30) are configured to be able to adjust the height from the floor surface to the top plate (2) when installed on the floor surface. A table according to any one of [1] to [3] above.

[0074] According to the table of the above configuration [4], the height from the floor to the top can be adjusted, so it can be used by people of all heights, from children to adults, for eating, playing table tennis, working, etc.

[0075] [5] The support leg (3) has a sliding structure. The table described in [4] above.

[0076] According to the table having the configuration [5] above, the support legs have a sliding structure, so that the height from the floor to the top plate can be easily changed.

[0077] [6] The support leg (3) has an upper leg portion (3a) fixed to the lower surface (12) of the top plate (2), a lower leg portion (3b) supported on the floor surface, and an intermediate leg portion (3c) interposed between the upper leg portion (3a) and the lower leg portion (3b), The lower leg portion (3b) is configured to be detachable from the middle leg portion (3c), The intermediate leg portion (3c) is slidably fitted to the upper leg portion (3a). The table described in [5] above.

[0078] According to the table having the configuration [6] above, the support legs can be set to an adult length with the lower legs attached, and can be changed to an infant length by removing the lower legs. Furthermore, with this table, the middle legs can slide relative to the upper legs, allowing the support legs to be adjusted to a length appropriate for the age of the infant. This provides a highly safe table that can be used both as a table for infants and adults. Furthermore, simply by combining multiple such tables, a highly safe ping-pong table suitable for infants and young children can be provided, which is less likely to shift positions relative to each other.

[0079] [7] A display unit (scale 25) that displays the height of the tabletop is provided on the support leg. The table described in [4] above.

[0080] According to the table having the configuration [7] above, the height of the tabletop can be easily adjusted while looking at the display unit.

[0081] [8] The display unit is provided with a scale indicating the height of the tabletop for a child of a certain age. Table described in [7] above.

[0082] According to the table of the configuration [8] above, the height of the tabletop can be easily set according to the age of the child by looking at the scale.

[0083] [9] The display unit is provided with a plurality of types of scales according to the purpose of the table. The table described in [8] above.

[0084] According to the table having the above configuration [9], the height of the table can be easily adjusted according to the purpose while looking at the scale.

[0085]

[10] A table tennis table made up of multiple tables described in any one of [1] to [9] above.

[0086] According to the table tennis table having the configuration

[10] above, a rubber portion (15) is provided on the peripheral side surface (13) of the table top (2). With this configuration, when multiple tables (1) are placed adjacent to each other with their peripheral sides in close contact, the contact between the rubber portions prevents slippage and prevents the tables from shifting relative to each other. Furthermore, the rubber portion (15) is not provided at the connection portion of the peripheral side surface (13) with the top surface (11). As a result, when multiple tables (1) are combined to be used as a table tennis table (T), even if the table tennis ball (100) hits the joint between the two tables, it is possible to prevent an unusual rebound, as would occur if the ball hit the rubber. Therefore, it is possible to play ball games without any discomfort.

[0087]

[11] A table tennis table (T) according to

[10] above and a racket (110), The racket (110) The golf club has a hitting plate portion (111) and a handle portion (112) connected to the hitting plate portion, The striking plate has a striking plate body (111a) and elastic sheets (front sheet 111b, back sheet 111b) attached to the front and back surfaces of the striking plate body (111a), and the outer periphery of the elastic sheets extends outward beyond the outer periphery of the striking plate body. Table tennis set.

[0088] According to the table tennis set having the configuration

[11] above, the outer edge of the hitting board body of the racket is covered with an elastic sheet, which increases safety when used by children.

[0089]

[12] Top plate (2) and and support legs (3) provided on the underside (12) of the top plate (2) to support the top plate, The support leg (3) The table has upper legs (3a) fixed to the lower surface (12) of the top plate (2), lower legs (3b) supported on a floor surface, and intermediate legs (3c) interposed between the upper legs (3a) and the lower legs (3b), The lower leg portion (3b) is configured to be detachable from the middle leg portion (3c), The intermediate leg portion (3c) is slidably fitted to the upper leg portion (3a). Table (1).

[0090] According to the table having the configuration

[12] above, the support legs can be set to an adult length with the lower legs attached, and can be changed to an infant length by removing the lower legs. Furthermore, with this table, the middle legs slide relative to the upper legs, allowing the support legs to be adjusted to a length that suits the age of the infant. This provides a table that can be used both as a table for infants and adults. In particular, the support legs have a sliding structure that allows for easy length adjustment, making it easy to change the height from the floor to the tabletop. Therefore, it can be used by people of all heights, from children to adults, for eating, playing table tennis, and other activities, as well as for work. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 1 table 2. Top plate 3 Support legs 3a Upper leg 3b Lower leg 3c Middle leg 11 Top side 12 Bottom side 13 Circumferential side 15 Rubber part 15a lower half 15b Upper half 15c Part covering the connection with the top surface 21,41,51,61,71 Tables 25 scales (display) 42, 52, 62, 72 Top plate 45,55 Rubber part 45c, 55c Covering the connection with the top surface T Table Tennis Table 100 table tennis balls 110 rackets 111 Ball batting board section 111a Ball hitting plate body 111b seat 112 Handle

Claims

1. A top plate having a rectangular shape in a plan view and having an upper surface, a lower surface, and a peripheral side surface connecting the upper surface and the lower surface; Support legs provided on the lower surface to support the top plate; a rubber portion provided to cover the peripheral side surface from a connection portion with the upper surface to a connection portion with the lower surface, the portion covering at least the connection portion with the upper surface being flush with the upper surface; Equipped with table.

2. The rubber portion has a lower half portion close to the lower surface that is thicker than an upper half portion close to the upper surface, and the peripheral side surface of the thicker lower half portion is a surface perpendicular to the upper and lower surfaces. The table of claim 1 .

3. the upper half of the rubber portion has a thickness gradient such that the thickness becomes thinner from the connection portion with the lower half portion toward the upper surface, The table of claim 2.

4. The support legs are configured to be adjustable in height from the floor surface to the top plate when the support legs are installed on the floor surface. The table of claim 1 .

5. The support leg has a slide structure.

5. The table of claim 4.

6. the support legs include upper legs fixed to the lower surface of the tabletop, lower legs supported on the floor surface, and intermediate legs interposed between the upper legs and the lower legs; The lower leg portion is configured to be detachable from the middle leg portion, The middle leg is slidably fitted to the upper leg.

6. The table of claim 5.

7. A display unit that displays the height of the tabletop is provided on the support leg.

5. The table of claim 4.

8. The display unit is provided with a scale indicating the height of the tabletop for a child of a certain age.

8. The table of claim 7.

9. The display unit is provided with a plurality of types of scales according to the purpose of the table.

8. The table of claim 7.

10. A table tennis table comprising a combination of a plurality of tables according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A table tennis table according to claim 10; a racket having a striking plate, a handle connected to the striking plate, and an elastic sheet attached to the front and back surfaces of the striking plate, the outer periphery of the elastic sheet extending outward beyond the outer periphery of the striking plate; Equipped with Table tennis set.

12. The top plate and support legs provided on the underside of the top plate to support the top plate, The support legs are The table has upper legs fixed to the lower surface of the tabletop, lower legs supported on a floor surface, and intermediate legs interposed between the upper legs and the lower legs, The lower leg portion is configured to be detachable from the middle leg portion, The middle leg is slidably fitted to the upper leg. table.

Images