TRAY TABLE HAVING DETENT MECHANISM - Patent application

Abstract

A detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table is provided. The detent mechanism includes an actuator configured to move with a table leaf of the tray table as the table leaf rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position of the table leaf. The detent mechanism includes a follower biased toward an open position of the follower. The follower is configured to be moved against the bias from the open position of the follower to a closed position by engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position. The follower includes a magnetic component configured to releasably retain the follower in the closed position.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 300,997, filed January 19, 2022, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety into this specification. [Technical field]

[0002]

[0002] The present invention relates generally to tables, and more particularly to mechanisms for deploying tables associated with aircraft passenger seats. [Background technology]

[0003]

[0003] Commercial airlines strive to provide improved service to their customers as well as improve passenger comfort and convenience. It is common for passengers on both private and commercial aircraft to utilize tables built into the seatback of the seat directly in front of them or deployable to one side of the passenger from within the seat console, where the table surface must be unfolded to provide sufficient surface area for placing food, drinks, or other objects thereon.

[0004]

[0004] Different types of tables associated with aircraft passenger seats that can be moved between stowed and deployed positions have been proposed, however such tables have limitations and can always be improved.

[0005]

[0005] A retractable tray table for an aircraft includes a telescoping base that allows the tray table to be extended outwardly from a stowed position to an extended position. Once the tray table is pulled outwardly from the stowed position to an extended or partially extended position, a table leaf of the tray table can be rotated to a deployed position in which the tray table can be used. However, it can be difficult for a user to know if the table leaf has been rotated to the deployed position, which can lead the user to mishandle the table leaf. For example, the user may attempt to rotate the table leaf beyond the deployed position. Mishandling the table leaf can cause premature wear and / or damage to the table leaf and / or other components of the tray table.

[0006]

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an improved table that is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. There is also a need for a table that can be stored within a seat console. There is an additional need for a table that is easier to manufacture, assemble, adjust, and maintain. The present invention fulfills these needs and provides other related advantages. Summary of the Invention

[0007]

[0007] The present invention provides an improved mechanism for a tray table that is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The present invention also provides a mechanism for a deployable tray table that can be stored within an aircraft seat, seat console, bulkhead, wall, or the like. The present invention provides a mechanism for a deployable tray table that is easier to manufacture, assemble, adjust, and maintain. The present invention fulfills these needs and provides other related advantages.

[0008] In one aspect, a detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table is provided. The detent mechanism includes an actuator configured to move with a table leaf of the tray table as the table leaf rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position of the table leaf. The detent mechanism includes a follower biased toward an open position of the follower. The follower is configured to be moved against the bias from the open position of the follower to a closed position by engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position. The follower includes a magnetic component configured to releasably hold the follower in the closed position.

[0009] In another aspect, a detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table is provided. The detent mechanism includes a connector rail configured to be held by a telescoping carriage configured to expand outwardly and retract inwardly relative to a base plate of the tray table between an extended position and a retracted position of the telescoping carriage. The connector rail is mounted to the telescoping carriage such that the connector rail is configured to move with the telescoping carriage between a retracted position and a partially extended position of the telescoping carriage. The detent mechanism includes a magnetic detent configured to releasably hold the telescoping carriage in the partially extended position.

[0010] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.

[0011]

[0011] Various of the present embodiments will now be discussed in detail, with emphasis on highlighting advantageous features, with reference to the drawings of the various embodiments. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the present invention. These drawings include the following figures, in which like numerals indicate like parts: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1]

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary tray table for an aircraft in accordance with an implementation. [Diagram 2]

[0013] 2 illustrates another perspective view illustrating the tray table shown in FIG. 1 according to an implementation. [Figure 3A]

[0014] 3 illustrates a perspective view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 in a stored configuration, according to an implementation. [Figure 3B] 3 illustrates a perspective view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 in an extended configuration, according to an implementation. [Figure 3C] 3 illustrates a perspective view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 in an expanded configuration, according to an implementation. [Figure 3D] 3 illustrates a perspective view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 in a partially extended configuration, according to an implementation. [Figure 4]

[0015] 3 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrating a detent mechanism according to an implementation. FIG. [Diagram 5]

[0016] 5 illustrates a perspective view of the tray table shown in FIG. 4 illustrating the tray table's carriage in a retracted position, according to an implementation. [Figure 6]

[0017] 5 illustrates a perspective view of the tray table shown in FIG. 4 illustrating the tray table's carriage in a partially extended position, according to an implementation. [Figure 7]

[0018] 5 illustrates a perspective view of the tray table shown in FIG. 4, illustrating a carriage guide of the tray table according to an implementation. [Figure 8]

[0019] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a detent mechanism according to an implementation. [Figure 9]

[0020] 9 illustrates a top view of the detent mechanism shown in FIG. 8 illustrating the detent mechanism in an open position, according to an implementation. [Figure 10]

[0021] 9 illustrates a top view of the detent mechanism shown in FIG. 8 illustrating the detent mechanism in a closed position, according to an implementation. [Figure 11]

[0022] 1-3 illustrating the operation of the detent mechanism shown in FIGS. 8-10 according to an implementation. FIG. [Figure 12] 1-3, illustrating the operation of the detent mechanism shown in FIGS. 8-10 according to an implementation. FIG. [Figure 13]

[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the tray table shown in FIGS. [Figure 14]

[0024] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a tray table according to another implementation. [Figure 15]

[0025] 1 illustrates a flowchart illustrating a method for configuring a tray table for an aircraft according to an implementation. [Figure 16]

[0026] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an aircraft implementation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013]

[0027] The following detailed description describes the present embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which reference numbers label elements of the present embodiments, and which are reproduced below in connection with a discussion of the corresponding drawing features.

[0014]

[0028] It should be understood that the figures and descriptions of the present invention have been simplified for purposes of clarity to illustrate elements relevant to a clear understanding of the present invention, while excluding many other elements found in an actual product. One skilled in the art may recognize that other elements and / or steps are desirable and / or required in implementing the present invention. However, because such elements and steps are well known in the art and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, a discussion of such elements and steps is not provided herein. The disclosure herein covers all such variations and modifications to such elements and methods known to those skilled in the art.

[0015]

[0029] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments and implementations, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. As used herein, an element or step described in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not necessarily excluding a plurality of elements or steps. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" or "one implementation" are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments or implementations that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless expressly stated to the contrary, an embodiment "comprising" or "having" an element or elements having a particular characteristic can include additional elements that do not have that characteristic.

[0016]

[0030] Various spatial and directional terms, such as "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "vertical," and similar terms, are used to describe the embodiments and implementations of the present application, but it should be understood that such terms are only used with respect to the orientation shown in the drawings. The orientation can be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed so that a top side becomes a bottom side if the structure is flipped 180 degrees, a left or right side if the structure is pivoted 90 degrees, and so on.

[0017]

[0031] In one particular implementation, a detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table is provided. The detent mechanism includes an actuator configured to move with a table leaf of the tray table as the table leaf rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position of the table leaf. The detent mechanism includes a follower biased toward an open position of the follower. The follower is configured to be moved against the bias from the open position of the follower to a closed position by engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position. The follower includes a magnetic component configured to releasably hold the follower in the closed position.

[0018]

[0032] In some implementations, the detent mechanism includes a connector rail configured to be held by the telescoping carriage configured to expand outwardly and retract inwardly relative to the base plate of the tray table between the extended and retracted positions of the telescoping carriage. The connector rail is mounted to the telescoping carriage such that the connector rail is configured to move with the telescoping carriage between the retracted and partially extended positions of the telescoping carriage. The detent mechanism includes a magnetic detent configured to releasably hold the telescoping carriage in the partially extended position.

[0019]

[0033] Certain implementations provide a detent mechanism that operates in a non-conventional manner to releasably retain the tray table in a partially extended position of the tray table. Certain implementations provide a detent mechanism that operates in a non-conventional manner to releasably retain the table leaf of the tray table in an extended position of the table leaf.

[0020]

[0034] One or more tray tables in various implementations have an improved user experience, e.g., as compared to at least some known tray tables. For example, certain implementations provide a tray table that is more intuitive to use, e.g., as compared to at least some known tray tables. Certain implementations provide, for example, a satisfying feel (e.g., a quality feel, etc.) of movement of the tray table to a partially extended position. Additionally, for example, certain implementations provide a satisfying feel of movement of a table leaf of the tray table to an extended position.

[0021]

[0035] Some implementations of the tray table prevent or reduce the likelihood of damage to and / or wear on the tray table caused, for example, by mishandling the tray table (e.g., attempting to rotate the table leaves beyond the deployed position, etc.), thereby reducing maintenance costs, for example, as compared to at least some known tray tables.

[0022]

[0036] Referring now to the figures, perspective views of a tray table 100 for an aircraft (such as, for example, aircraft 500 shown in FIG. 14 ) are provided in FIGS. 1 and 2. The tray table 100 includes a telescoping base 102, a table leaf 104 mounted to the base 102, and detent mechanisms 106 and / or 108. The detent mechanisms 106 and 108 are not visible in FIGS. 1 and 2, but are described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 4-7 and 8-12, respectively. For example, the detent mechanism 106 is configured to releasably retain the tray table 100 in a partially extended position of the tray table 100. Additionally, for example, the detent mechanism 108 is configured to releasably retain the table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 in an extended position of the table leaf 104.

[0023]

[0037] 1 and 2 illustrate the tray table or table assembly 100 in a stowed position. The stowed position of the tray table 100 may also be referred to herein as the "retracted position" of the tray table 100. The tray table 100 may be configured to be installed within a cabin of an aircraft, for example, adjacent to a seat (e.g., in front of, beside, behind, etc.) of the seat. Similarly, the tray table 100 may be configured in an aircraft in connection with a wall, bulkhead, or seat console having a wall with an exterior surface and a recess that extends to a depth beyond the exterior surface of the wall, bulkhead, seat console, or seat. The tray table 100 may generally be stored within the recess when the tray table 100 is in the stowed configuration, the recess being sized and shaped to receive the tray table 100. When the tray table 100 is in the stowed configuration, the table leaf 104 is in a generally horizontal position and the outer side of the tray table 100 faces outwardly from the recess and forms at least a portion of the outer surface of the wall, bulkhead, seat, or seat console and is generally consistent with and flush with the remainder of the outer surface of the wall, bulkhead, seat, or seat console.

[0024]

[0038] 3, the tray table 100 is movable between a stored position and an deployed position. FIG. 3A illustrates the tray table 100 in the stored position, and FIG. 3C illustrates the tray table 100 in the deployed position. To move the tray table 100 to the deployed position (e.g., to deploy the tray table 100 for use, etc.), the tray table 100 is movable from the stored position of the tray table 100 to the extended position shown in FIG. 3B. For example, the base 102 of the tray table 100 is configured to telescope inwardly and outwardly along the longitudinal axis 116 to move the tray table 100 between the stored position of the tray table 100 shown in FIG. 3A and the extended position of the tray table 100 shown in FIG. 3B. Specifically, the base 102 is configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly along the longitudinal axis 116 between the extended position of the base 102 shown in FIG. 3B and the retracted position of the base 102 shown in FIG. 3A. The retracted position of the base 102 corresponds to the stored position of the tray table 100 (i.e., the base 102 is moved to the base 102 retracted position, thereby moving the tray table 100 to the tray table 100 stored position). The extended position of the base 102 corresponds to the extended position of the tray table 100 (i.e., the base 102 is moved to the base 102 extended position, thereby moving the tray table 100 to the tray table 100 extended position). In other words, the base 102 of the tray table 100 is configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly along the longitudinal axis 116 between the extended position of the tray table 100 and the stored position of the tray table 100.

[0025]

[0039] For example, in some implementations, the base 102 of the tray table 100 includes a telescoping rail system 118 having rail sets 120, 122, and 124 (rail sets 122 and 124 are best seen in FIGS. 4-6). The rail sets 120, 122, and 124 are slidably interconnected with one another such that the rail sets 120, 122, and 124 are configured to slide relative to one another along the longitudinal axis 116, thereby expanding and contracting the base 102 along the longitudinal axis 116. FIGS. 3B, 3C, and 3D illustrate optional covers 126 and 128 that cover the rail sets 122 and 124. The base 102 is not limited to the illustrative rail system 118 shown and described herein. Rather, in addition to or in lieu of rail system 118, base 102 may include any other structures, systems, mechanisms, devices, and / or the like that enable base 102 to expand and contract along longitudinal axis 116, thereby moving tray table 100 between the stowed and extended positions. Although shown as having three rail sets 120, 122, and 124, rail system 118 may include any other number of rail sets. Moreover, in the illustrative implementation, each rail set 120, 122, and 124 includes two opposing rails, although in other implementations, one or more of the rail sets includes another number of rails (e.g., a single rail, three rails, etc.).

[0026]

[0040] The table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 is selectively rotatable relative to the base 102 between a stored position of the table leaf 104 and an extended position of the table leaf 104. As shown in FIG. 3A, when the tray table 100 is in its stored position, the table leaf 104 is in its stored position. To further deploy the tray table 100 from the extended position of the tray table 100 shown in FIG. 3B to the extended position of the tray table 100 shown in FIG. 3C, the table leaf 104 is rotated relative to the base 102 (e.g., in the direction of arrow 130, etc.) from its stored position shown in FIG. 3B to the extended position of the table leaf 104 shown in FIG. 3C. In some implementations, the tray table 100 is configured such that when the tray table 100 is in its extended position, the table leaf 104 extends onto the lap of an occupant of a corresponding seat.

[0027]

[0041] From the unfolded position shown in Figure 3C, the tray table 100 can be moved to a partially extended position of the tray table 100 shown in Figure 3D. Specifically, in the partially extended position of the tray table 100, the base 102 is partially folded (e.g., partially retracted inwardly, etc.) along the longitudinal axis 116, such that the table leaf 104 is moved along the longitudinal axis 116 in the direction of arrow 132 relative to the position of the table leaf 104 in the extended position of the tray table 100 shown in Figures 3B and 3C. In other words, the base 102 of the tray table 100 includes a partially extended position shown in Figure 3D that corresponds to the partially extended position of the tray table 100 (i.e., the base 102 is moved to its partially extended position, thereby moving the tray table 100 to its partially extended position).

[0028]

[0042] 3D as being in the deployed position when the tray table 100 is in the partially extended position, the table leaf 104 is not so limited. In some implementations, the table leaf 104 is movable between various positions of the table leaf 104 when the tray table 100 is in the partially extended position (e.g., a stowed position, a deployed position, one or more intermediate positions between the stowed position and the deployed position, etc.). Moreover, in some implementations, the table leaf 104 is locked into a position (e.g., a stowed position, a deployed position, one or more intermediate positions between the stowed position and the deployed position, etc.) when the tray table 100 is in the partially extended position.

[0029]

[0043] In some implementations, the partially extended position of the tray table 100 is an exit position of the tray table 100. The exit position of the tray table 100, for example, allows an occupant of the corresponding seat to stand up and / or leave the seat, provides greater freedom of movement for the occupant, provides more arm and / or leg space for the occupant, etc. Moreover, in some implementations, the partially extended position of the tray table 100 is a position that allows an occupant of the corresponding seat to use the table leaf 104 as a desk (e.g., for writing, reading, supporting a laptop computer, eating, using as a cocktail and / or other beverage table, etc.).

[0030]

[0044] In operation, the tray table 100 is deployed for use by pulling the tray table 100 in the direction of arrow 134, thereby moving the tray table 100 from the tray table 100 stored position shown in FIG. 3A to the tray table 100 extended position shown in FIG. 3B. The table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 is then rotated from the table leaf 104 stored position shown in FIG. 3A and 3B to the table leaf 104 deployed position shown in FIG. 3C. As shown, in the illustrative implementation, the table leaf 104 is rotated approximately 90° from the table leaf 104 stored position shown in FIG. 3A and 3B to the table leaf 104 deployed position shown in FIG. 3C. Other angular differences between the table leaf 104 stored position and the deployed position (e.g., approximately 180°, etc.) are contemplated as being within the scope of the present application.

[0031]

[0045] 4, the detent mechanism 106 of the tray table 100 will be described. The covers 126 and 128 of the base 102 (shown in FIG. 3) have been removed from FIG. 4 to better illustrate the detent mechanism 106. The base 102 of the tray table 100 includes a base plate 136 in which the rail set 120 of the rail system 118 is assembled (e.g., the rail set 120 is mounted to the base plate 136 as shown in the illustrative implementation of FIG. 4, the rail set 120 is integrally formed with the base plate 136 as a single unitary structure, etc.).

[0032]

[0046] The base 102 of the tray table 100 includes a telescoping carriage 140. For example, the carriage 140 is configured to telescope inwardly and outwardly along the longitudinal axis 116 to move the tray table 100 between a stored position of the tray table 100 and an extended position of the tray table 100. Specifically, the carriage 140 is configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly relative to the base plate 136 along the longitudinal axis 116 between an extended position of the carriage 140 shown in FIG. 4 and a retracted position of the carriage 140 shown in FIG. 5 (the carriage 140 is shown in phantom in FIG. 5 for clarity). The retracted position of the carriage 140 corresponds to the stored position of the tray table 100 (i.e., the carriage 140 is moved to the retracted position to move the tray table 100 to the stored position). The extended position of carriage 140 corresponds to the extended position of tray table 100 (i.e., carriage 140 is moved to the extended position, thereby moving tray table 100 to the extended position). Carriage 140 includes a partial extended position (shown in FIG. 6) that corresponds to the partial extended position of tray table 100 (i.e., carriage 140 is moved to its partial extended position, thereby moving tray table 100 to its partial extended position).

[0033]

[0047] The carriage 140 holds the table leaf 104 (FIGS. 1-3, 11, and 12). In other words, the table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 is mounted on the carriage 140 such that the table leaf 104 is carried by the carriage 140 for movement with the carriage 140 as the carriage 140 telescopes inwardly and outwardly between its retracted and extended positions. In an illustrative implementation, telescopic movement of the carriage 140 is enabled by a rail set 124 of a rail system 118 integrated into the carriage 140 (e.g., the rail set 124 is mounted to the carriage 140 as shown in the illustrative implementation of FIG. 4, the rail set 124 is integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the carriage 140, etc.).

[0034]

[0048] The detent mechanism 106 includes a translating connector rail 142 and a magnetic detent 144. Optionally, the detent mechanism 106 includes a mechanical latch mechanism 146, which will be described in more detail below. The connector rail 142 is configured to translate along the longitudinal axis 116 between a retracted position of the connector rail 142 (shown in FIG. 5 ) corresponding to a retracted position of the carriage 140 and an extended position of the connector rail 142 (shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 ) corresponding to a partially extended position of the carriage 140 (i.e., when the carriage 140 is in its partially extended position, the connector rail 142 is in its extended position). In other words, the connector rail 142 moves along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the base plate 136 between the retracted and extended positions of the connector rail 142. As described below, the connector rail 142 remains in the extended position of the connector rail 142 (shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 ) when the carriage 140 is in its extended position.

[0035]

[0049] The connector rail 142 extends a length from an end 148 to an opposite end 150. The end 148 is slidably mounted to the base plate 136 such that the connector rail 142 is slidable relative to the base plate 136 as the carriage 140 telescopes inwardly and outwardly along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the base plate 136. In other words, the end 148 of the connector rail 142 is slidably held by the base plate 136 such that the end 148 of the connector rail 142 is configured to move along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the base plate 136, for example, as the carriage 140 moves along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the base plate 136.

[0036]

[0050] 4 only, the end 148 of the connector rail 142 is slidably mounted to the base plate 136 using structures, systems, mechanisms, devices, and / or the like that enable the connector rail 142 to function as described and / or illustrated herein (e.g., enable the end 148 of the connector rail 142 to move along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the base plate 136, etc.). For example, in some implementations, the base plate 136 includes one or more guides (not shown, e.g., rails, retainers, tracks, etc.) that engage the connector rail 142 to guide movement of the connector rail 142 as the end 148 moves along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the base plate 136. In some implementations, for example, the connector rail 142 does not engage the base plate 136 or its guides, but rather floats above a surface 152 of the base plate 136. Additionally, for example, in some implementations, the connector rail 142 rests on the surface 152 of the base plate 136 (e.g., connected thereto or not, using one or more guides).

[0037]

[0051] End 150 of connector rail 142 is mounted to carriage 140 such that end 150 of connector rail 142 is configured to move with carriage 140 between a retracted position of carriage 140 and a partially extended position of carriage 140. In other words, connector rail 142 is mounted to carriage 140 such that: (1) carriage 140 pulls connector rail 142 in direction 134 with carriage 140 as carriage 140 expands outwardly along longitudinal axis 116 and moves to its partially extended position, and (2) carriage 140 pushes connector rail 142 in direction 132 such that connector rail 142 moves with carriage 140 in direction 132 as carriage 140 retracts inwardly along longitudinal axis 116 from the partially extended position toward its retracted position.

[0038]

[0052] The mounting of the end 150 of the connector rail 142 also allows the end 150 of the connector rail 142 to move along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the carriage 140. For example, the end 150 of the connector rail 142 is slidably mounted to the carriage 140 such that the connector rail 142 is slidable along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the carriage 140 as the carriage 140 moves from its partially extended position toward its extended position. In other words, the end 150 of the connector rail 142 is slidably held by the carriage 140 such that the end 150 of the connector rail 142 is configured to move along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the carriage 140 as the carriage 140 moves in the direction 134 from its partially extended position toward its extended position. Movement of the connector rail 142 along and relative to the carriage 140 is described in more detail below.

[0039]

[0053] The end 150 of the connector rail 142 is mounted to the carriage 140 using a structure, system, mechanism, device, and / or the like that enables the connector rail 142 to function as described and / or illustrated herein (e.g., enables the end 150 of the connector rail 142 to move with the carriage 140 between a retracted position of the carriage 140 and a partially extended position of the carriage 140, enables the end 150 of the connector rail 142 to move along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the carriage 140, etc.). For example, in some implementations, the carriage 140 includes one or more guides (e.g., rails, retainers, tracks, etc.) that engage the connector rail 142 to guide movement of the connector rail 142 as the connector rail 142 moves along the longitudinal axis 116 relative to the carriage 140. 7, in the illustrative implementation, the carriage 140 includes a guide 154 that includes two rails 154a and 154b that guide movement of the connector rail 142 relative to the carriage 140 along the longitudinal axis 116. The guide 154 may include any other number of rails 154a and 154b.

[0040]

[0054] 4, as briefly described above, the detent mechanism 106 includes a magnetic detent 144. As described below, the magnetic detent 144 is configured to releasably hold the carriage 140 of the tray table 100 in a partially extended position of the carriage 140 and the tray table 100. The magnetic detent 144 includes a magnetic component 156 of the connector rail 142 and a magnetic component 158 ​​of the carriage 140 that cooperate to releasably hold the carriage 140 and the tray table 100 in the partially extended position, respectively. In other words, the connector rail 142 includes the magnetic component 156 and the carriage 140 includes the magnetic component 158. Each of the magnetic components 156 and 158 may be referred to herein as a "first" and / or a "second" magnetic component.

[0041]

[0055] The magnetic components 156 and 158 are each configured such that the magnetic components 156 and 158 are magnetically attracted to one another. For example, in some implementations, at least one of the magnetic components 156 or 158 includes one or more magnets that generate a magnetic field configured to magnetize the ferromagnetic material of the other magnetic component 156 or 158 when the magnetic components 156 and 158 are within a predetermined distance from one another. In some implementations, for example, the magnetic components 156 and 158 each include one or more magnets that are magnetically attracted to one another when they are within a predetermined distance of one another. Each of the magnetic components 156 and 158 may include any number of magnets.

[0042]

[0056] As briefly described above, the magnetic components 156 and 158 cooperate with one another to releasably hold the carriage 140 and the tray table 100 in the partially extended position. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the magnetic components 156 and 158 are positioned at respective locations along the connector rail 142 and the carriage 140 such that when the carriage 140 is in the partially extended position, the magnetic components 156 and 158 are at least partially aligned along the longitudinal axis 116, and thereby within a predetermined distance of one another. Thus, when the carriage 140 and the tray table 100 are in the partially extended position, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 156 and 158 releasably holds the carriage 140 and the tray table 100 in the partially extended position.

[0043]

[0057] In the illustrative implementation, the magnetic component 156 is a separate component from the body of the connector rail 142 that is retained by the body of the connector rail 142 using any suitable methods, means, fasteners, and / or the like (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, interference fit, clearance fit, transition fit, snap fit, clips, latches, etc.). In other examples, the magnetic component 156 is defined by at least a portion of the body of the connector rail 142. For example, one or more segments of the body of the connector rail 142 may define the magnetic component 156, while the remainder of the body of the connector rail 142 is non-magnetic, etc.

[0044]

[0058] An illustrative implementation of magnetic component 158 ​​is a separate component from the body of carriage 140 that is retained by the body of carriage 140 using any suitable methods, means, fasteners, and / or the like (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, interference fit, clearance fit, transition fit, snap fit, clips, latches, etc.). In other examples, magnetic component 158 ​​is defined by at least a portion of the body of carriage 140. For example, one or more segments of the body of carriage 140 may define magnetic component 158, while the remainder of the body of carriage 140 is non-magnetic, etc.

[0045]

[0059] Various parameters of magnetic components 156 and 158, such as, but not limited to, the strength of the magnet(s) of magnetic components 156 and / or 158, the distance between magnetic components 156 and 158 when carriage 140 and tray table 100 are in the partially extended position, and / or the like, can be selected to enable the magnetic attraction therebetween to releasably hold carriage 140 and tray table 100 in the partially extended position. Each magnet of magnetic components 156 and / or 158 can have any number of poles that enable magnetic components 156 and 158 to function as disclosed herein (e.g., be magnetically attracted to one another, releasably hold carriage 140 in the partially extended position, etc.). Examples of the number of poles of magnets of magnetic components 156 and / or 158 include, but are not limited to, a single pole, two poles, four poles, six poles, eight poles, ten poles, an even number of poles greater than ten poles, and / or the like.

[0046]

[0060] In some implementations, the magnetic detent 144 is configured to generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 140, and thus the tray table 100, moves to the partially extended position. Specifically, the magnetic components 156 and 158 of the magnetic detent 144 are configured in one implementation to cooperate to generate an audible and / or tactile indication that the carriage 140 and tray table 100 have moved to the partially extended position. For example, friction generated through the sliding engagement of the magnetic components 156 and 158 with one another as the carriage 140 moves to the partially extended position may generate a snap action that emits an audible and / or tactile indication that the carriage 140 and tray table 100 have moved to the partially extended position. In another example, the rate at which magnetic components 156 and 158 are drawn together to align with one another when within a predetermined distance of one another is selected (e.g., via the size and / or strength of magnetic components 156 and / or 158, via the number and / or configuration of poles of magnetic components 156 and / or 158, etc.) to provide force feedback that generates an audible and / or tactile indication that carriage 140 and tray table 100 have moved to the partially extended position. In another example, the increased resistance to further movement of carriage 140 that is generated when magnetic components 156 and 158 align with one another is selected (e.g., via the size and / or strength of magnetic components 156 and / or 158, via the number and / or configuration of poles of magnetic components 156 and / or 158, etc.) to provide force feedback that generates an audible and / or tactile indication that carriage 140 and tray table 100 have moved to the partially extended position.

[0047]

[0061] In some implementations, the four-pole configuration provides a greater force of attraction between the magnetic components 156 and 158 at shorter distances (e.g., the distance between the magnetic components 156 and 158 when the carriage 140 and tray table 100 are in a partially extended position, etc.), while the four-pole configuration provides a reduced force of attraction between the magnetic components 156 and 158 at longer distances (e.g., the distance between the magnetic components 156 and 158 when the carriage 140 and tray table 100 are moved away from or towards their partially extended positions, etc.). In this manner, the four-pole configuration facilitates generating force feedback that generates an audible and / or tactile indication as the carriage 140 and tray table 100 move towards the partially extended position.

[0048]

[0062] As briefly described above, in some implementations, the detent mechanism 106 includes a mechanical latch mechanism 146. The latch mechanism 146 is configured to releasably hold the connector rail 142 in an extended position (shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 ) of the connector rail 142 that corresponds to a partially extended position of the carriage 140 and the tray table 100. In the illustrative implementation, the latch mechanism 146 includes a latch member 160 on the connector rail 142 and a latch catch 162 on the base plate 136. In other words, the connector rail 142 includes the latch member 160 and the base plate 136 includes the latch catch 162.

[0049]

[0063] The latch member 160 and the latch catch 162 are configured to interlock with one another. Specifically, the latch member 160 and the latch catch are configured to interlock with one another as the connector rail 142 moves to the extended position of the connector rail 142. For example, the latch member 160 and the latch catch 162 are positioned at respective locations along the connector rail 142 and the base plate 136 such that the latch member 160 and the latch catch 162 are at least partially aligned along the longitudinal axis 116 when the connector rail 142 is in its extended position. Thus, when the connector rail 142 is in its extended position, the interlock between the latch member 160 and the latch catch 162 releasably retains the connector rail 142 in its extended position. In the illustrative implementation, the latch member 160 is positioned at the end 148 of the connector rail 142, however, the latch member 160 and the latch catch 162 may each have any other location along the connector rail 142 and base plate 136, respectively, that enables the mechanical latch mechanism 146 to function as described and / or illustrated herein (e.g., releasably retaining the connector rail 142 in its extended position, etc.).

[0050]

[0064] In the illustrative implementation, the latch member 160 and the latch catch 162 couple to one another with a snap-fit ​​connection. However, the latch mechanism 146 is not limited to a snap-fit ​​connection. Rather, the latch member 160 and the latch catch 162 couple to one another using any other type of connection (e.g., an interference fit, etc.) that additionally or alternatively enables the mechanical latch mechanism 146 to function as described and / or illustrated herein (e.g., releasably retain the connector rail 142 in its extended position, etc.).

[0051]

[0065] 4-6, when a user moves (e.g., pulls, pushes, etc.) carriage 140 of tray table 100 in direction 134 from the retracted position of carriage 140 and tray table 100 shown in FIG. 5 (also referred to as the stowed position of tray table 100) toward its extended position, connector rail 142 moves in direction 134 with carriage 140 (relative to base plate 136). For example, stiction between connector rail 142 and guide portion 154 (shown in FIG. 7) of carriage 140 may be sufficient to pull connector rail 142 in direction 134 with carriage 140. When connector rail 142 reaches its extended position, latch member 160 interlocks with latch catch 162 to releasably retain connector rail 142 in the extended position of connector rail 142. As carriage 140 is moved further in direction 134, carriage 140 moves (e.g., slides, etc.) along longitudinal axis 116 (in direction 134) relative to connector rail 142 to a partially extended position of carriage 140 and tray table 100 shown in Figure 6. When carriage 140 reaches its partially extended position, magnetic components 156 and 158 of magnetic detent 144 align along longitudinal axis 116, thereby magnetically coupling with one another to releasably hold carriage 140 and tray table 100 in the partially extended position, for example, as shown in Figure 6.

[0052]

[0066] As described above, in some implementations, the magnetic components 156 and 158 of the magnetic detents 144 generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 140 moves to the partially extended position. The audible and / or tactile indication generated by the magnetic components 156 and 158 as the carriage 140 moves to the partially extended position informs (e.g., reassures, etc.) the user that the tray table 100 has been successfully moved to the partially extended position. The tactile and / or audible indication generated by the magnetic detents 144 improves the user's experience, for example, by providing a satisfying feel (e.g., a feel of quality, etc.) of the movement of the tray table 100 to the partially extended position, by providing a more intuitive tray table 100 to use, etc.

[0053]

[0067] From the partially extended position shown in Figure 6, the carriage 140, and thus the tray table 100, can be moved to the extended position of the carriage 140 and tray table 100 shown in Figure 4. Specifically, the carriage 140 can be moved in the direction 134 with a force sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 156 and 158, thereby allowing the carriage 140 to move relative to the connector rail 142 in the direction 134 to the extended position of the carriage 140 and tray table 100. As is evident from a comparison of Figures 4 and 6, as the carriage 140 moves relative to the connector rail 142 from the partially extended position of the carriage 140 and tray table 100 toward and to the extended position of the carriage 140 and tray table 100, the mechanical latch mechanism 146 holds the connector rail 142 in its extended position.

[0054]

[0068] From the extended position of carriage 140 and tray table 100, carriage 140, and thus tray table 100, can be returned to its partially extended position by moving (e.g., pushing, pulling, etc.) carriage 140 in direction 132 until magnetic components 156 and 158 align and thereby magnetically couple. As carriage 140 moves relative to connector rail 142 from the extended position of carriage 140 and tray table 100 toward and to the partially extended position of carriage 140 and tray table 100, mechanical latch mechanism 146 holds connector rail 142 in its extended position.

[0055]

[0069] From a partially extended position of the carriage 140 and tray table 100, the carriage 140 can be moved in the direction 132 with sufficient force to overcome the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 156 and 158, thereby allowing the carriage 140 to move relative to the connector rail 142 in the direction 132 toward a retracted position of the carriage 140 shown in FIG. 5. As the carriage 140 moves relative to the connector rail 142 in the direction 132 from the partially extended position of the carriage 140 toward its retracted position, the mechanical latch mechanism 146 holds the connector rail 142 in the extended position. When the carriage 140 moves sufficiently relative to (e.g., along) the connector rail 142 in the direction 132, the carriage 140 engages a stop 164 of the connector rail 142. In the illustrated implementation, the stop 164 is defined by an end face of a channel 166 in the connector rail 142, and the carriage 140 includes a pin 168 that rides within and engages with an end face of the channel 166, although any other mechanism may be used in addition or instead. Engagement of the stop 164 may cause the carriage 140 to move further in the direction 132 with sufficient force to overcome the mechanical connection between the latch member 160 and the latch catch 162 of the latch mechanism 146 (e.g., release or unlatch the latch mechanism 146), thereby allowing the carriage 140 to move further in the direction 132 to a retracted (i.e., stored) position of the carriage 140 and the tray table 100. As carriage 140 moves in direction 132 to its retracted position, connector rail 142 moves with carriage 140 (e.g., via engagement between carriage 140 and stopper 164, via stiction between guide portion 154 and connector rail 142, etc.) to the retracted position of connector rail 142 shown in FIG. 5.

[0056]

[0070] In some implementations, the magnetic components 156 and 158 of the magnetic detent 144 generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 140 is released from the partially extended position, which informs (e.g., reassures) the user that the tray table 100 has been successfully moved from the partially extended position.

[0057]

[0071] 8-10, the detent mechanism 108 of the tray table 100 will be described. The detent mechanism 108 includes an actuator 190 (not shown in FIGS. 8 and 9), a base 192, a follower 194, and a magnetic detent 196. In some implementations, the base 192 is mounted to the carriage 140 (see FIGS. 4-7, 11, and 12), while in other embodiments, the base 192 is integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the carriage 140. The follower 194 is mounted to the base 192 such that the follower 194 is movable relative to the carriage 140 between an open position and a closed position of the follower 194. The open position of the follower 194 is shown in FIG. 9, and the closed position of the follower 194 is shown in FIG. 10. As described below, the open position of the follower 194 corresponds to the stored position of the table leaf 104 (see Figures 1-3, 11, and 12). In other words, when the table leaf 104 is in the stored position, the follower 194 is in the open position. The closed position of the follower 194 corresponds to the deployed position of the table leaf 104 (i.e., when the table leaf 104 is in the deployed position, the follower 194 is in the closed position).

[0058]

[0072] In the illustrative implementation, the follower 194 is configured to rotate (e.g., pivot, etc.) between an open position and a closed position. For example, the follower 194 is shown in the illustrative implementation as being rotatably mounted to the base 192 via a pin 198 for rotation about a central longitudinal axis of the pin 198 between the open position and the closed position. The detent mechanism 108 is not limited to a pin 198 for enabling rotational movement of the follower 194. Rather, in addition to or in lieu of the pin 198, the follower 194 may be rotatably mounted to the base 192 using any other structure (e.g., bearings, etc.) that enables the follower 194 to function as described and / or illustrated herein (e.g., enabling, facilitating, and / or the like, rotational movement of the follower 194 between the open position and the closed position, etc.). In other implementations, the follower 194 moves in a linear motion between its open and closed positions in addition to or instead of the rotational motion shown herein.

[0059]

[0073] In some implementations, the follower 194 is biased toward its open position. For example, the detent mechanism 108 includes a biasing mechanism 200 (not shown in FIG. 8 ) operably connected to the follower 194 (e.g., operably connected between the follower 194 and the base 192, operably connected between the follower 194 and another location along the carriage 140, etc.), such that the biasing mechanism 200 is configured to bias the follower 194 toward its open position. The biasing mechanism 200 may include any structure, type of biasing mechanism, and / or the like that enables the biasing mechanism 200 to function as described and / or illustrated herein. In an illustrative implementation of the biasing mechanism 200, the biasing mechanism 200 includes a helical torsion spring operably connected about the pin 198. However, biasing mechanism 200 may additionally or alternatively include any other type of spring (e.g., coil spring, torsion bar, leaf spring, etc.) and / or another type of biasing mechanism. Moreover, biasing mechanism 200 may be operatively connected to follower 194 using any other configurations, arrangements, and / or the like in addition to or in place of the illustrative configurations shown herein.

[0060]

[0074] In some implementations, the follower 194 and the base 192 include respective stoppers 202 and 204 configured to cooperate to prevent the follower 194 from moving beyond a closed position of the follower 194. For example, as shown in FIG. 10 , the stoppers 202 and 204 are configured to engage one another when the follower 194 is in a closed position such that the follower 194 is prevented from further rotating in the direction of arrow 206. As described below, the stoppers 202 and 204 thereby cooperate to prevent the table leaf 104 from rotating beyond the deployed position of the table leaf 104. Each of the stops 202 and 204 may be referred to herein as a “first” and / or a “second” stopper.

[0061]

[0075] Optionally, follower 194 and base 192 include respective stops 208 and 210 configured to cooperate to prevent follower 194 from moving beyond the open position of follower 194. For example, as shown in FIGURE 9, stops 208 and 210 are configured to engage one another when follower 194 is in the open position such that follower 194 is prevented from further rotating in the direction of arrow 212. Each of stops 208 and 210 may be referred to herein as a "first" and / or a "second" stopper.

[0062]

[0076] As briefly described above, the detent mechanism 108 includes a magnetic detent 196. The magnetic detent 196 is configured to releasably hold the follower 194 in its closed position. As described below, by releasably holding the follower 194 in its closed position, the magnetic detent 196 is configured to releasably hold the table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 in its deployed position. The magnetic detent 196 includes a magnetic component 214 of the follower 194 and a magnetic component 216 of the base 192, which cooperate to releasably hold the follower 194 in its closed position, respectively. In other words, the follower 194 includes the magnetic component 214 and the base 192 includes the magnetic component 216. Each of the magnetic components 214 and 216 may be referred to herein as a "first" and / or a "second" magnetic component.

[0063]

[0077] The magnetic components 214 and 216 are each configured such that the magnetic components 214 and 216 are magnetically attracted to one another. For example, in some implementations, at least one of the magnetic components 214 or 216 includes one or more magnets that generate a magnetic field configured to magnetize the ferromagnetic material of the other magnetic component 214 or 216 when the magnetic components 214 and 216 are within a defined (e.g., predetermined) distance from one another. In some implementations, for example, the magnetic components 214 and 216 each include one or more magnets that are magnetically attracted to one another when within a predetermined distance of one another. Each of the magnetic components 214 and 216 may include any number of magnets.

[0064]

[0078] As briefly described above, the magnetic components 214 and 216 cooperate with one another to releasably hold the follower 194 in the closed position. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the magnetic components 214 and 216 are positioned at respective locations along the follower 194 and base 192 such that when the follower 194 is in the closed position, the magnetic components 214 and 216 are at least partially aligned with one another (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10, etc.), and thereby within a predetermined distance of one another. Thus, when the follower 194 is in the closed position, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 214 and 216 releasably holds the follower 194 in the closed position. As described below, by releasably holding the follower 194 in the closed position, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 214 and 216 releasably holds the table leaf 104 in the deployed position.

[0065]

[0079] In illustrative implementations, the magnetic component 214 is a separate component from the body of the follower 194 that is retained by the body of the follower 194 using any suitable methods, means, fasteners, and / or the like (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, interference fit, clearance fit, transition fit, snap fit, clips, latches, etc.). In other examples, the magnetic component 214 is defined by at least a portion of the body of the follower 194. For example, one or more segments of the body of the follower 194 may define the magnetic component 214, while the remainder of the body of the follower 194 is non-magnetic, etc.

[0066]

[0080] An illustrative implementation of the magnetic component 216 is a separate component from the body of the base 192 that is retained by the body of the base 192 using any suitable methods, means, fasteners, and / or the like (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, interference fit, clearance fit, transition fit, snap fit, clips, latches, etc.). In other examples, the magnetic component 216 is defined by at least a portion of the body of the base 192. For example, one or more segments of the body of the base 192 may define the magnetic component 216, while the remainder of the body of the base 192 is non-magnetic, etc.

[0067]

[0081] Various parameters of the magnetic components 214 and 216, such as, but not limited to, the strength of the magnet(s) of the magnetic components 214 and / or 216, the distance between the magnetic components 214 and 216 when the follower 194 is in the closed position, and / or the like, can be selected to enable the magnetic attraction between them to releasably hold the follower 194 in the closed position and thereby the table leaf 104 in the deployed position. Each magnet of the magnetic components 214 and / or 216 can have any number of poles that enable the magnetic components 214 and 216 to function as disclosed herein (e.g., to be magnetically attracted to each other, to releasably hold the follower 194 in the closed position and the table leaf 104 in the deployed position, etc.). Examples of the number of poles of the magnets of the magnetic components 214 and / or 216 include, but are not limited to, a single pole, two poles, four poles, six poles, eight poles, ten poles, an even number of poles greater than ten poles, and / or the like.

[0068]

[0082] In some implementations, the magnetic detent 196 is configured to generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the follower 194 moves to the closed position (and hence when the table leaf 104 moves to the deployed position). In particular, the magnetic components 214 and 216 of the magnetic detent 196 may be configured to cooperate to generate an audible and / or tactile indication that the follower 194 and the table leaf 104 have moved to their respective closed and deployed positions. For example, friction generated through the sliding engagement of the magnetic components 214 and 216 with one another as the follower 194 moves to the closed position may generate a snap action that emits an audible and / or tactile indication that the follower 194 and the table leaf 104 have moved to their respective closed and deployed positions. In another example, the rate at which the magnetic components 214 and 216 are drawn into engagement with each other may create a snap action that provides an audible and / or tactile indication that the follower 194 and table leaf 104 have moved to their respective closed and deployed positions. In another example, the rate at which the magnetic components 214 and 216 are drawn together into alignment with each other upon coming within a predetermined distance of each other is selected (e.g., via the size and / or strength of the magnetic components 214 and / or 216, via the number and / or configuration of poles of the magnetic components 214 and / or 216, etc.) to provide force feedback that provides an audible and / or tactile indication that the follower 194 and table leaf 104 are in their respective closed and deployed positions.

[0069]

[0083] In some implementations, the four-pole configuration provides a greater force of attraction between the magnetic components 214 and 216 at shorter distances (e.g., the distance between the magnetic components 214 and 216 when the follower 194 is in a closed position, etc.), while the four-pole configuration provides a reduced force of attraction between the magnetic components 214 and 216 at longer distances (e.g., the distance between the magnetic components 214 and 216 as the follower 194 is moved away from or toward its closed position, etc.). In this manner, the four-pole configuration facilitates generating force feedback that generates audible and / or tactile indications as the follower 194 and table leaf 104 move to their respective closed and deployed positions.

[0070]

[0084] Movement of follower 194 from the open position shown in Figure 9 to the closed position shown in Figure 10 is driven by rotation of the table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 to the table leaf 104 deployed position. Specifically, follower 194 is configured to be moved from the open position to the closed position by engagement of actuator 190 with follower 194 against a bias to the open position provided by biasing mechanism 200 as the table leaf 104 rotates from the table leaf 104 stowed position to the table leaf 104 deployed position.

[0071]

[0085] 11 and 12, the actuator 190 is mounted to an underside 220 of the table leaf 104 such that the actuator 190 is configured to move with the table leaf 104 as the table leaf 104 rotates between its stored and deployed positions (shown in FIG. 12). For example, the actuator 190 is mounted to the table leaf 104 such that the actuator 190 moves along an arc 222 as the table leaf 104 rotates along the arc 222 between the stored and deployed positions of the table leaf 104. In an illustrative implementation, the actuator 190 includes a pin 224 (not visible in FIG. 12) at which the actuator 190 is configured to engage the follower 194 to move the follower 194 from the open position to the closed position. In other words, the actuator 190 is configured to engage the follower 194 with the pin 224. However, the actuator 190 is not limited to the pin 224. Rather, in addition to or in place of pin 224, actuator 190 may include any other structure that enables actuator 190 to function as described and / or illustrated herein (e.g., moving follower 194 from an open position to a closed position, etc.).

[0072]

[0086] 8-10, in the illustrative implementation of the detent mechanism 108, the follower 194 includes a channel 226 through which the actuator 190 (not shown in FIGS. 8 and 9) engages the follower 194. In other words, the actuator 190 is configured to engage the follower 194 within the channel 226. In the illustrative implementation, the pin 224 (not shown in FIGS. 8 and 9) is configured to be received within the channel 226 as the table leaf 104 (see FIGS. 1-3, 11, and 12) rotates from the stored position toward the deployed position. As the table leaf 104 rotates toward the deployed position, the engagement of the pin 224 with the follower 194 within the channel 226 moves the follower 194 from the open position to the closed position. For example, engagement of pin 224 with side 230 of channel 226 as pin 224 moves along arc 222 (not shown in FIG. 8 ) in the direction of arrow 228 when table leaf 104 rotates toward the deployed position moves follower 194 in direction 206 toward its closed position. As described below, engagement of pin 224 with side 234 of channel 226 as pin 224 moves along arc 222 in the direction of arrow 232 when table leaf 104 rotates toward the stowed position may facilitate moving follower 194 in direction 212 toward its open position (e.g., in addition to or instead of the biasing force provided by biasing mechanism 200, etc.).

[0073]

[0087] The configurations, arrangements, operations, and / or the like of the pins 224 and channels 226 shown and described herein are intended to be illustrative only, and the detent mechanism 108 may additionally or alternatively include any other structures, configurations, arrangements, components, operations, and / or the like that enable the detent mechanism 108 to function as described and / or illustrated herein.

[0074]

[0088] In operation, and referring now to Figures 8-12, as a user rotates the table leaf 104 along an arc 222 in a direction 228 from the table leaf 104's stowed position (shown in Figure 3B) toward the deployed position (shown in Figure 12), the pin 224 of the actuator 190 enters (e.g., is received within) the channel 226 of the follower 194. As the table leaf 104 is further rotated in the direction 228 toward the table leaf 104's deployed position, the pin 224 engages a side 230 of the channel 226 such that the pin 224 moves the follower 194 in the direction 206 against the bias of the biasing mechanism 200 from the open position shown in Figures 8, 9, and 11 to the closed position shown in Figures 10 and 12. When the follower 194 reaches its closed position, the magnetic components 214 and 216 of the magnetic detent 196 align, thereby magnetically coupling with one another. When magnetically coupled to one another, magnetic components 214 and 216 releasably hold follower 194 in a closed position against the bias of biasing mechanism 200, as shown, for example, in FIGS.

[0075]

[0089] By releasably retaining the follower 194 in its closed position, the magnetic detent 196 is configured to releasably retain the table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 in its deployed position. For example, referring now only to FIG. 10 , the closed position of the follower 194 prevents the pin 224 from moving in the direction 232 without overcoming the magnetic coupling between the magnetic components 214 and 216 (i.e., the pin 224 would have to overcome the magnetic coupling between the magnetic components 214 and 216 in order to move in the direction 232). Thus, when the follower 194 is in the closed position, the magnetic detent 196 releasably retains the table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 in its deployed position.

[0076]

[0090] As described above, in some implementations, the magnetic components 214 and 216 of the magnetic detents 196 generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the follower 194 moves to the closed position. The audible and / or tactile indication generated by the magnetic components 214 and 216 as the follower 194 moves to the closed position informs (e.g., reassures, etc.) the user that the table leaf 104 has been successfully moved to the deployed position. The tactile and / or audible indication generated by the magnetic detents 196 improves the user's experience, for example, by providing a satisfying feel (e.g., a feel of quality, etc.) of the movement of the table leaf 104 to the deployed position, by providing a more intuitive tray table 100 to use, etc. Moreover, the tactile and / or audible indication generated by the magnetic detents 196 may prevent a user from mishandling the table leaf 104 (e.g., attempting to rotate the table leaf 104 beyond the deployed position, etc.). The tactile and / or audible indication generated by the magnetic detent 196 thereby prevents or reduces the likelihood of damage to and / or wear on the tray table 100, which reduces maintenance costs (e.g., as compared to at least some known tray tables).

[0077]

[0091] In some implementations, the stoppers 202 on the follower 194 and the stoppers 204 on the base 192, respectively, may prevent the table leaf 104 from being rotated beyond the deployed position, thereby preventing a user from mishandling the table leaf 104 by attempting to rotate the table leaf 104 beyond the deployed position. The stops 202 and 204 thereby prevent or reduce the likelihood of damage to and / or wear on the tray table 100, which reduces maintenance costs (e.g., as compared to at least some known tray tables).

[0078]

[0092] In some implementations, the magnetic attractive force between the magnetic components 214 and 216 is configured to move the follower 194 to the closed position. For example, the attractive force by which the magnetic components 214 and 216 are drawn as they move into alignment with one another may reduce the force required by a user to complete the movement of the table leaf 104 to the deployed position.

[0079]

[0093] To move the table leaf 104 from its deployed position to its stored position, the user rotates the table leaf 104 in direction 232 along arc 222. As the table leaf rotates in direction 232 from the deployed position toward the stored position, the engagement between the pin 224 of the actuator 190 and the side 234 of the channel 226, together with the bias of the biasing mechanism 200, overcomes the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 214 and 216 and applies a force to the follower 194 moving it in direction 212 from the closed position toward the open position. As the table leaf 104 rotates further in direction 232, the pin 224 disengages (i.e., exits) from the channel 226, allowing the table leaf 104 to be further rotated toward the stored position. In some implementations, a stop 208 on the follower 194 and a stop 210 on the base 192 each prevent the follower 194 from moving in the direction 212 beyond its open position, which may prevent or reduce the likelihood of damage to and / or wear on the detent mechanism 108.

[0080]

[0094] In some implementations, the magnetic components 214 and 216 of the magnetic detent 196 generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the follower 194 is released from the closed position, which informs (e.g., reassures) the user that the table leaf 104 has been successfully moved from the deployed position.

[0081]

[0095] Although detent mechanism 108 is described and illustrated herein with respect to a pull-out tray table (e.g., tray table 100, etc.), detent mechanism 108 is not limited to being used with pull-out tray tables. Rather, detent mechanism 108 may be used with any other type of tray table, such as, but not limited to, a fold-out tray table, and / or the like.

[0082]

[0096] 13 , in the illustrative implementation, rail sets 120, 122, and 124 are slidably interconnected with one another using ball bearing assemblies 250 that allow rail sets 120, 122, and 124 to slide relative to one another along longitudinal axis 116, thereby expanding and contracting base 102 (and thus tray table 100) along longitudinal axis 116. For example, illustrative ball bearing assembly 250 includes a retainer 252 that retains balls 254 between races 256 defined by rails 120, 122, and 124. Other ball bearing arrangements, configurations, structures, geometries, and / or the like may be used in addition to or in place of ball bearing assembly 250.

[0083]

[0097] 14, the tray table 300 includes a telescoping base 302 and a table leaf 304 mounted to the base 302. The tray table 100 is movable between a stored position (which may also be referred to herein as a "retracted position") and a deployed position. To move the tray table 300 to the deployed position (e.g., to deploy the tray table 300 for use, etc.), the tray table 300 is movable from the stored position of the tray table 300 to an extended position of the tray table 300. For example, the base 302 of the tray table 300 is configured to telescope inwardly and outwardly along the longitudinal axis 316 to move the tray table 300 between the stored position and the extended position. Specifically, the base 302 is configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly along the longitudinal axis 316 between the extended position of the base 302 and the retracted position of the base 302. The retracted position of the base 302 corresponds to the stored position of the tray table 300. The extended position of the base 302 corresponds to the extended position of the tray table 300. In other words, the base 302 of the tray table 300 is configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly along the longitudinal axis 316 between the extended position of the tray table 300 and the retracted position of the tray table 300.

[0084]

[0098] 14 , the base 302 of the tray table 300 includes a telescoping rail system 318 having rail sets 320 and 322. The rail sets 320 and 322 are slidably interconnected with each other and with a carriage 340 of the base 302 such that the rail sets 320 and 322 are configured to slide relative to each other and the carriage 340 along the longitudinal axis 316, thereby expanding and contracting the base 302 (and thus the tray table 300) along the longitudinal axis 316. The illustrative implementation of the rail sets 320 and 322 are slidably interconnected with each other using a sliding block assembly 350 that allows the rail sets 320 and 322 to slide relative to each other and the carriage 340 along the longitudinal axis 316, thereby expanding and contracting the base 302 (and thus the tray table 300) along the longitudinal axis 316. For example, illustrative sliding block assembly 350 includes a sliding block 352 mounted (e.g., rigidly, floatingly, etc.) to a corresponding rail 320a or 320b of rail set 320 along longitudinal axis 316 for movement therewith, and a sliding block 354 mounted (e.g., rigidly, floatingly, etc.) to carriage 340 for movement therewith along longitudinal axis 316. Each sliding block 352 and 354 is configured to slide within a corresponding channel 356 and 358, respectively, of a corresponding rail 322a or 322b of rail set 322. Other sliding block arrangements, configurations, structures, geometries, and / or the like may be used in addition to or in place of sliding block assembly 350.

[0085]

[0099] FIG. 15 illustrates a method 400 of configuring a tray table (e.g., tray table 100 shown in FIGS. 1-12, etc.) for an aircraft (e.g., aircraft 500 shown in FIG. 16, etc.) according to an implementation. Method 400 includes, at 402, mounting an actuator of a detent mechanism to a table leaf of the tray table such that the actuator is configured to move with the table leaf as the table leaf rotates between the stowed and deployed positions of the table leaf. At 404, method 400 includes mounting a follower of the detent mechanism to a carriage of the tray table such that engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position moves the follower from its open position to its closed position. Method 400 further includes, at 406, operably connecting a magnetic detent of the detent mechanism to the follower such that the magnetic detent generates at least one of an audible or tactile indication when the table leaf moves to the deployed position.

[0086]

[0100] In some implementations, mounting at 402 includes mounting an actuator of the detent mechanism to the table leaf at 402a such that engagement between the actuator and the follower as the table leaf rotates from the deployed position toward the stored position is configured to move the follower from its closed position toward its open position.

[0087]

[0101] Optionally, the method 400 includes, at 408, operatively connecting a biasing mechanism to the follower of the detent mechanism such that the biasing mechanism biases the follower toward the open position of the follower.

[0088]

[0102] In some implementations, the method 400 includes, at 410, operably connecting a magnetic detent of a detent mechanism to the follower such that the magnetic detent is configured to move the follower toward a closed position.

[0089]

[0103] In some implementations, method 400 includes configuring the follower with a stop configured to prevent the follower from moving beyond a closed position of the follower, at 412. Additionally, method 400 optionally includes configuring the follower with a stop configured to prevent the table leaf from rotating beyond an extended position of the table leaf, at 414.

[0090]

[0104] 16, examples of the present application may be described in the context of using the tray table disclosed herein on an aircraft 500 including an airframe 502. The aircraft 500 includes a number of high level systems 504 and an interior 506. Examples of high level systems 504 include one or more of a propulsion system 508, an electrical system 510, a hydraulic fluid system 512, a control system 514, and an environmental system 516. Any number of other systems may be included. Although a fixed wing passenger aircraft is shown, the tray tables described and / or illustrated herein may be used with any other type of aircraft, such as, but not limited to, transport aircraft, military aircraft, rotorcraft (e.g., helicopters, etc.), lighter-than-air vehicles (e.g., balloons, etc.), and / or the like. Moreover, although an aerospace example is shown, the present application may be applied to other industries, such as, but not limited to, the automotive industry, the marine industry, etc.

[0091]

[0105] The following clauses describe further aspects: Clause Set A: A1.A detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table, the detent mechanism comprising: an actuator configured to move with the table leaf of the tray table as the table leaf rotates between the stowed and deployed positions of the table leaf; a follower biased toward an open position of the follower, wherein the follower is configured to be moved against the bias from the open position of the follower to a closed position by engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position, the follower comprising a magnetic component configured to releasably retain the follower in the closed position; A detent mechanism comprising: A2. The detent mechanism of clause A1, wherein the magnetic component is configured to generate an audible indication when the follower moves to the closed position. A3. The detent mechanism of clause A1 or A2, wherein the magnetic component of the follower is configured to cooperate with another magnetic component to generate an audible indication that the follower has moved to the closed position. A4. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A3, wherein the magnetic component is configured to generate a tactile indication when the follower moves to the closed position. A5. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A4, wherein a magnetic component of the follower is configured to cooperate with another magnetic component to generate a tactile indication that the follower has moved to the closed position. A6. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A5, wherein a magnetic attraction between a magnetic component of the follower and another magnetic component is configured to move the follower to the closed position. A7. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A6, wherein engagement between the actuator and the follower as the table leaf rotates from the deployed position toward the stowed position is configured to move the follower from its closed position toward its open position. A8. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A7, wherein the actuator comprises a pin, the actuator configured to engage the follower with the pin. A9. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A8, wherein the follower comprises a channel, and the actuator is configured to engage the follower within the channel. A10. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A9, wherein the follower includes a stopper configured to cooperate with another stopper to prevent the follower from moving beyond the follower's closed position. A11. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A10, wherein the follower includes a stopper configured to cooperate with another stopper to prevent the follower from moving beyond the open position of the follower. A12. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A11, further comprising a torsion spring operatively connected to the follower such that the torsion spring is configured to bias the follower toward the open position of the follower. A13. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A12, further comprising a base, the follower mounted to the base such that the follower is configured to move relative to the base between the follower's open and closed positions, and the base configured to be mounted to a carriage of a tray table. A14. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses A1-A13, wherein the follower is configured to rotate between the open and closed positions of the follower. A15. The detent mechanism of clauses A1-A14, wherein the actuator moves along an arc as the table leaf rotates between the stowed and deployed positions of the table leaf. Clause Set B: B1. A tray table for an aircraft, comprising: A carriage; a table leaf mounted to the carriage such that the table leaf is selectively rotatable between a stowed position and a deployed position; Detent mechanism and The detent mechanism includes: an actuator mounted to the table leaf such that the actuator is configured to move with the table leaf as the table leaf rotates between the stowed position and the deployed position; A base and a follower mounted to the base such that the follower is movable relative to the carriage between an open position and a closed position of the follower, wherein the follower is biased toward the open position of the follower, and the follower is configured to be moved against the bias from the open position to the closed position by engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position; a magnetic detent configured to releasably retain the follower in a closed position; A tray table. B2. The tray table of clause B1, wherein the magnetic detent is configured to generate an audible indication when the follower moves to the closed position. B3. A tray table as described in clause B1 or B2, wherein the magnetic detent each comprises a first magnetic component on the follower and a second magnetic component on the base, the first and second magnetic components cooperating to generate an audible indication that the table leaf has moved to the deployed position. B4. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B3, wherein the magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the follower moves to the closed position. B5. A tray table as described in any one of clauses B1-B4, wherein the magnetic detents each comprise a first magnetic component on the follower and a second magnetic component on the base, the first and second magnetic components being configured to cooperate to generate a tactile indication that the table leaf has moved to the deployed position. B6. A tray table according to any one of clauses B1-B5, wherein the magnetic detents each comprise a first magnetic component on the follower and a second magnetic component on the base, and wherein magnetic attraction between the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component is configured to move the follower to the closed position. B7. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B6, wherein engagement between the actuator and the follower as the table leaf rotates from the deployed position toward the stowed position is configured to move the follower from its closed position toward its open position. B8. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B7, wherein the actuator comprises a pin, the actuator configured to engage the follower with the pin. B9. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B8, wherein the follower comprises a channel, and the actuator is configured to engage the follower within the channel. B10. A tray table according to any one of clauses B1-B9, wherein the follower includes a first stopper and the base includes a second stopper, the first and second stops cooperating to prevent the follower from moving beyond the follower's closed position. B11. A tray table according to any one of clauses B1 to B10, wherein the follower includes a first stopper and the base includes a second stopper, the first and second stops being configured to cooperate to prevent the table leaf from rotating beyond the table leaf's deployed position. B12. A tray table described in any one of clauses B1-B11, wherein the follower includes a first stopper and the base includes a second stopper, the first and second stops cooperating to prevent the follower from moving beyond the follower's open position. B13. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B12, further comprising a torsion spring operatively connected to the follower such that the torsion spring is configured to bias the follower toward the open position of the follower. B14. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B13, wherein the base is mounted to a carriage. B15. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B14, wherein the base is integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the carriage. B16. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B15, wherein the follower is mounted to the base such that the follower is configured to rotate between the follower's open and closed positions. B17. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B16, wherein the actuator moves along an arc as the table leaf rotates between the stowed and deployed positions of the table leaf. B18. The tray table of any one of clauses B1-B17, wherein the carriage is configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table. B19. A tray table as described in any one of clauses B1-B18, wherein the tray table is configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table, the tray table comprising rail sets slidably interconnected to each other via ball bearing assemblies such that the rail sets are configured to slide relative to each other, thereby extending and contracting the tray table. B20. A tray table as described in any one of clauses B1-B19, wherein the tray table is configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table, and the tray table comprises rail sets slidably interconnected with each other and the carriage via a sliding block assembly that allows the rail sets to slide relative to each other and the carriage. Clause Set C: C1. A method of configuring a tray table for an aircraft, the method comprising: mounting an actuator of a detent mechanism to a table leaf of the tray table such that the actuator is configured to move with the table leaf as the table leaf rotates between the stowed and deployed positions of the table leaf; mounting a follower of the detent mechanism to a carriage of the tray table such that engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position moves the follower from its open position to its closed position; operatively connecting a magnetic detent of the detent mechanism to the follower such that the magnetic detent generates at least one of an audible or tactile indication when the table leaf moves to the deployed position; A method comprising: C2. The method of clause C1, further comprising operably connecting a biasing mechanism to the follower of the detent mechanism such that the biasing mechanism biases the follower toward the open position of the follower. C3. The method of any one of clauses C1 to C2, further comprising operably connecting a magnetic detent of the detent mechanism to the follower such that the magnetic detent is configured to move the follower toward the closed position. C4. The method of any one of clauses C1-C3, further comprising mounting an actuator of the detent mechanism to the table leaf such that engagement between the actuator and the follower as the table leaf rotates from the deployed position toward the stowed position is configured to move the follower from its closed position toward its open position. C5. The method of any one of clauses C1-C4, further comprising configuring the follower with a stop configured to prevent the follower from moving beyond a closed position of the follower. C6. The method of any one of clauses C1-C5, further comprising configuring the follower with a stop configured to prevent the table leaf from rotating beyond the deployed position of the table leaf. Clause Set D: D1. A detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table, the detent mechanism comprising: a follower configured to move between an open position and a closed position, where the follower is biased to the open position, the follower comprising a magnetic component configured to releasably retain the follower in the closed position; an actuator configured to move with the table leaf of the tray table as the table leaf rotates between the stowed and deployed positions of the table leaf, where the actuator is configured to engage the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position such that the actuator moves the follower against the bias from the open position to the closed position; A detent mechanism comprising: Clause Set E: E1.A detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table, comprising: a connector rail configured to be carried by a telescoping carriage configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly relative to a base plate of the tray table between an extended position and a retracted position of the telescoping carriage, wherein the connector rail is mounted to the telescoping carriage such that the connector rail is configured to move with the telescoping carriage between the retracted position and the partially extended position of the telescoping carriage; a magnetic detent configured to releasably retain the telescoping carriage in a partially extended position; A detent mechanism comprising: E2. The detent mechanism of clause E1, wherein the magnetic detent is configured to generate an audible indication when the telescoping carriage moves to the partially extended position. E3. The detent mechanism of clause E1 or E2, wherein the magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the telescoping carriage moves to the partially extended position. E4. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses E1-E3, wherein the magnetic detent comprises a first magnetic component on the connector rail and a second magnetic component on the telescoping carriage, the first and second magnetic components cooperating to generate an audible indication that the telescoping carriage has moved to the partially extended position. E5. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses E1-E4, wherein the magnetic detent comprises a first magnetic component on the connector rail and a second magnetic component on the telescoping carriage, the first and second magnetic components being configured to cooperate to generate a tactile indication that the telescoping carriage has moved to the partially extended position. E6. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses E1-E5, wherein the connector rail includes a mechanical latch mechanism configured to releasably retain the connector rail in an extended position of the connector rail corresponding to the partially extended position of the telescoping carriage. E7. A detent mechanism as described in any one of clauses E1-E6, wherein the connector rail includes a latch mechanism configured to releasably retain the connector rail in an extended position of the connector rail corresponding to a partially extended position of the telescoping carriage, the latch mechanism including a latch member on the connector rail and a latch catch on the base plate, the latch member configured to interlock with the latch catch as the connector rail moves to the extended position of the connector rail. E8. A detent mechanism as described in any one of clauses E1-E7, wherein the connector rail includes a latch mechanism configured to releasably retain the connector rail in an extended position of the connector rail corresponding to a partially extended position of the telescoping carriage, the latch mechanism including a latch member on the connector rail and a latch catch on the base plate, the latch member configured to interlock with the latch catch in a snap-fit ​​connection. E9. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses E1-E8, wherein the connector rail is configured to be slidably mounted to the telescoping carriage such that the connector rail is slidable relative to the telescoping carriage as the telescoping carriage moves from the partially extended position toward the extended position. E10. The detent mechanism of any one of clauses E1-E9, further comprising a guide portion for the telescoping carriage, the connector rail configured to engage the guide portion as the connector rail moves relative to the telescoping carriage.

[0092]

[0106] Although the present invention has been discussed above in connection with use on passenger aircraft, the present invention is not limited to that environment and may also be used on passenger trains, automobiles, buses, and other vehicles including, but not limited to, carts, carriages, and rail-mounted transport vehicles.

[0093]

[0107] Similarly, the present invention should also not be limited to use in vehicles, but may be used in non-vehicle or stationary environments where there is seating, and where it is desirable to store and deploy a flat work surface for use in the types of activities where a flat surface such as a table, desk, counter, or the like is typically used. Furthermore, the present invention should also not be limited to use in connection with seats, but may be used in any environment where the device may be stored within and deployed from a recess formed in a surface (e.g., a wall, tabletop, table), or may be attached to a flat surface (e.g., a wall, tabletop, table) that does not have a recess in which the device may be stored.

[0094]

[0108] Additionally, the invention described in the claims is not limited in size and may be configured in miniature versions or for use in very large scale applications where the same or similar principles of motion and friction control as described above would apply. Similarly, the length and width of the table surface area provided by the table assembly should not be construed as drawn to scale, and the length / width of the table surface area may be adjusted according to the area available for storage / deployment of the table assembly. Furthermore, the figures herein (and the various components shown therein) should not be construed as drawn to scale.

[0095]

[0109] As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element that is "configured to" perform a task or operation is specifically structurally shaped, constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task or operation. For purposes of clarity and to avoid doubt, an object that is merely capable of being modified to perform a task or operation is not "configured to" perform a task or operation as used herein.

[0096]

[0110] As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, any ranges or values ​​given herein can be expanded or modified without losing the effect sought.

[0097]

[0111] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0098]

[0112] It will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or to several embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to those that solve any or all of the problems described or those that have any or all of the benefits and advantages described. Further, it will be understood that references to "an" item refer to one or more of those items.

[0099]

[0113] The order of performing or doing the operations in the examples of the present application illustrated and described herein is not essential unless otherwise specified. That is, operations can be performed in any order unless otherwise specified, and the examples of the present application may include additional operations or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, performing or doing a particular operation before, contemporaneously with, or after another operation (e.g., a different step, etc.) is contemplated to be within the scope of aspects and implementations of the present application.

[0100]

[0114] The term "comprising" is used herein to mean including the succeeding feature(s) or operation(s) without excluding the presence of one or more additional features or operations. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. In other words, the use of "including," "comprising," "having," "including," "with," and variations thereof are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter as well as additional items. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" or "one implementation" are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments or implementations that also incorporate the recited features. The term "exemplary" is intended to mean "an example of."

[0101]

[0115] When introducing elements or examples of aspects of the present application, the articles "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. In other words, the indefinite articles "a," "an," "the," and "said," as used in the specification and claims, should be understood to mean "at least one," unless clearly indicated to the contrary.

[0102]

[0116] The phrase "one or more of A, B, and C" means "at least one of A and / or at least one of B and / or at least one of C." The phrase "and / or" as used in the present specification and claims should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctive in some cases and disjunctive in other cases. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" should be interpreted in the same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so conjoined. Other elements other than the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause may optionally be present, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to "A and / or B," when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising," may refer in one embodiment to only A (optionally including elements other than B), in another embodiment to only B (optionally including elements other than A), in yet another embodiment to both A and B (optionally including other elements), etc.

[0103]

[0117] When used in the specification and claims, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and / or" defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or "and / or" should be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., including at least one of, but also including more than one of, and optionally including additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as "only one of" or "exactly one of," or "consisting of," when used in the claims, will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of, or a list of elements. In general, the term "or" used should only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e., "one or the other but not both") when preceded by a term of exclusivity, such as "either," "one of," "only one of," or "exactly one of." "Consisting essentially of," when used in the claims, should have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0104]

[0118] As used herein and in the claims, the phrase "at least one," in connection with a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed in the list of elements, and not necessarily excluding any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for elements other than those specifically identified in the list of elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified, may optionally be present. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B" or, equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") can refer in one embodiment to at least one, optionally more than one, A, in which B is absent (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment to at least one, optionally more than one, B, in which A is absent (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment to at least one, optionally more than one, A, and at least one, optionally more than one, B (and optionally including other elements), etc.

[0105]

[0119] The use of ordinal terms such as "first," "second," "third," etc. in the claims to modify claim elements does not, by itself, imply any priority, precedence, or ordering of one claim element over another, or the temporal order in which operations of a method are performed. The ordinal terms are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a particular name from other elements having the same name (except for the use of the ordinal terms) to distinguish among claim elements.

[0106]

[0120] Having described the aspects of the present application in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the aspects of the present application as defined in the appended claims. Because various changes can be made in the above-described structures, products, and methods without departing from the scope of the aspects of the present application, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted in an illustrative and not limiting sense.

[0107]

[0121] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. For example, the above-described embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments of the present application without departing from their scope. The dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the present application, but the embodiments are in no way limiting and are illustrative embodiments. Many other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the above description. The scope of the various embodiments of the present application should therefore be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms "including" and "wherein" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "herein." Moreover, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Moreover, the following claim limitations are not written in means-plus-function form, and are not intended to be construed under 35 U.S.C. §112(f) unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase "means for," followed by a recitation of a function lacking further structure.

[0108]

[0122] This specification uses examples to disclose various embodiments of the application, including the best mode, and to enable those skilled in the art to practice various embodiments of the application, including making and using any device or system, and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the application is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if the examples have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if the examples include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table, the detent mechanism comprising: an actuator configured to move with the table leaf of the tray table as the table leaf rotates between its stowed and deployed positions; the follower being biased towards an open position thereof, wherein the follower is configured to be moved against the bias from the open position thereof to a closed position thereof by engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position, the follower comprising a magnetic component configured to releasably hold the follower in the closed position; A detent mechanism comprising:

2. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic component is configured to generate an audible indication when the follower moves to the closed position.

3. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic component of the follower is configured to cooperate with another magnetic component to generate an audible indication that the follower has been moved to the closed position.

4. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic component is configured to generate a tactile indication when the follower moves toward the closed position.

5. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic component of the follower is configured to cooperate with another magnetic component to generate a tactile indication that the follower has been moved to the closed position.

6. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein a magnetic attraction between the magnetic component of the follower and another magnetic component is configured to move the follower to the closed position.

7. 2. The detent mechanism of claim 1, wherein engagement between the actuator and the follower as the table leaf rotates from the deployed position toward the stowed position is configured to move the follower from the closed position of the follower toward the open position.

8. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the actuator comprises a pin, the actuator configured to urge the follower into engagement with the pin.

9. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the follower comprises a channel, and the actuator is configured to engage the follower within the channel.

10. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the follower includes a stop configured to cooperate with another stop to prevent the follower from moving beyond the closed position of the follower.

11. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the follower includes a stop configured to cooperate with another stop to prevent the follower from moving beyond the open position of the follower.

12. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , further comprising a torsion spring operatively connected to the follower such that the torsion spring is configured to bias the follower toward the open position of the follower.

13. 2. The detent mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a base, the follower being mounted to the base such that the follower is configured to move relative to the base between the open and closed positions of the follower, the base being configured to be mounted to a carriage of the tray table.

14. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the follower is configured to rotate between the open and closed positions of the follower.

15. The detent mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the actuator moves along an arc as the table leaf rotates between the stowed and deployed positions of the table leaf.

16. 1. A tray table for an aircraft, the tray table comprising: A carriage; a table leaf mounted to the carriage such that the table leaf is selectively rotatable between a stowed position and a deployed position; Detent mechanism and The detent mechanism comprises: an actuator mounted to the table leaf such that the actuator is configured to move with the table leaf as the table leaf rotates between the stowed position and the deployed position; A base and a follower mounted to the base such that the follower is movable relative to the carriage between an open position and a closed position of the follower, wherein the follower is biased towards the open position of the follower, and the follower is configured to be moved against the bias from the open position to the closed position by engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position; a magnetic detent configured to releasably retain said follower in said closed position; A tray table.

17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the magnetic detent is configured to generate an audible indication when the follower moves to the closed position.

18. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the magnetic detent comprises a first magnetic component on the follower and a second magnetic component on the base, the first and second magnetic components cooperating to generate an audible indication that the table leaf has moved to the extended position.

19. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the follower moves to the closed position.

20. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the magnetic detent comprises a first magnetic component on the follower and a second magnetic component on the base, the first and second magnetic components cooperating to generate a tactile indication that the table leaf has been moved to the extended position.

21. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the magnetic detent comprises a first magnetic component on the follower and a second magnetic component on the base, respectively, configured such that magnetic attraction between the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component moves the follower to the closed position.

22. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein engagement between the actuator and the follower as the table leaf rotates from the deployed position towards the stowed position is configured to move the follower from its closed position towards its open position.

23. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the actuator comprises a pin, the actuator configured to urge the follower into engagement with the pin.

24. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the follower comprises a channel, and the actuator is configured to engage the follower within the channel.

25. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the follower includes a first stop and the base includes a second stop, the first and second stops cooperating to prevent the follower from moving beyond the closed position of the follower.

26. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the follower includes a first stop and the base includes a second stop, the first and second stops cooperating to prevent the table leaf from rotating beyond the extended position of the table leaf.

27. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the follower includes a first stop and the base includes a second stop, the first and second stops cooperating to prevent the follower from moving beyond the open position of the follower.

28. 18. The tray table of claim 17, further comprising a torsion spring operatively connected to the follower such that the torsion spring is configured to bias the follower toward the open position of the follower.

29. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the base is mounted to the carriage.

30. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein said base is integrally formed as a single unitary structure with said carriage.

31. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the follower is mounted to the base such that the follower is configured to rotate between the open and closed positions of the follower.

32. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the actuator moves along an arc as the table leaf rotates between the stowed and deployed positions of the table leaf.

33. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the carriage is configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table.

34. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the tray table is configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly between extended and retracted positions of the tray table, the tray table comprising rail sets slidably interconnected to one another via ball bearing assemblies such that the rail sets are configured to slide relative to one another, thereby extending and contracting the tray table.

35. 17. The tray table of claim 16, wherein the tray table is configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly between extended and retracted positions of the tray table, the tray table comprising rail sets slidably interconnected with each other and with the carriage via a sliding block assembly that allows the rail sets to slide relative to each other and with respect to the carriage.

36. 1. A method of forming a tray table for an aircraft, the method comprising: mounting an actuator of a detent mechanism to a table leaf of the tray table such that the actuator is configured to move with the table leaf as the table leaf rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position of the table leaf; mounting the follower of the detent mechanism to a carriage of the tray table such that engagement of the actuator with the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position moves the follower from its open position to its closed position; operatively connecting a magnetic detent of the detent mechanism to the follower such that the magnetic detent generates at least one of an audible or tactile indication when the table leaf moves to the deployed position; A method comprising:

37. 37. The method of claim 36, further comprising operably connecting a biasing mechanism to the follower of the detent mechanism such that the biasing mechanism biases the follower toward the open position of the follower.

38. 37. The method of claim 36, further comprising operably connecting the magnetic detent of the detent mechanism to the follower such that the magnetic detent is configured to move the follower toward the closed position.

39. 37. The method of claim 36, further comprising mounting the actuator of the detent mechanism to the table leaf such that engagement between the actuator and the follower as the table leaf rotates from the deployed position toward the stowed position is configured to move the follower from its closed position toward its open position.

40. 37. The method of claim 36, further comprising configuring the follower with a stop configured to prevent the follower from moving beyond the closed position of the follower.

41. 37. The method of claim 36, further comprising configuring the follower with a stop configured to prevent the table leaf from rotating beyond the deployed position of the table leaf.

42. 1. A detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table, the detent mechanism comprising: a follower configured to move between an open position and a closed position, wherein the follower is biased to the open position, the follower comprising a magnetic component configured to releasably retain the follower in the closed position; an actuator configured to move with the table leaf of the tray table as the table leaf rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position of the table leaf, wherein the actuator is configured to engage the follower as the table leaf rotates from the stowed position to the deployed position such that the actuator moves the follower against the bias from the open position to the closed position; A detent mechanism comprising:

43. 1. A detent mechanism for an aircraft tray table, the detent mechanism comprising: a connector rail configured to be carried by the telescoping carriage configured to expand outwardly and contract inwardly relative to a base plate of the tray table between an extended position and a retracted position of the telescoping carriage, wherein the connector rail is mounted to the telescoping carriage such that the connector rail is configured to move with the telescoping carriage between the retracted position and the partially extended position of the telescoping carriage; a magnetic detent configured to releasably retain the telescoping carriage in the partially extended position; A detent mechanism comprising:

44. 44. The detent mechanism of claim 43, wherein the magnetic detent is configured to generate an audible indication when the telescoping carriage moves to the partially extended position.

45. 44. The detent mechanism of claim 43, wherein the magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the telescoping carriage moves to the partially extended position.

46. 44. The detent mechanism of claim 43, wherein the magnetic detent comprises a first magnetic component on the connector rail and a second magnetic component on the telescoping carriage, the first and second magnetic components configured to cooperate to generate an audible indication that the telescoping carriage has moved to the partially extended position.

47. 44. The detent mechanism of claim 43, wherein the magnetic detent comprises a first magnetic component on the connector rail and a second magnetic component on the telescoping carriage, the first and second magnetic components configured to cooperate to generate a tactile indication that the telescoping carriage has moved to the partially extended position.

48. 44. The detent mechanism of claim 43, wherein the connector rail comprises a mechanical latch mechanism configured to releasably retain the connector rail in an extended position thereof corresponding to the partially extended position of the telescoping carriage.

49. 44. The detent mechanism of claim 43, wherein the connector rail comprises a latch mechanism configured to releasably retain the connector rail in an extended position of the connector rail corresponding to the partially extended position of the telescoping carriage, the latch mechanism comprising a latch member on the connector rail and a latch catch on the base plate, the latch member configured to interlock with the latch catch as the connector rail moves to the extended position of the connector rail.

50. 44. The detent mechanism of claim 43, wherein the connector rail comprises a latch mechanism configured to releasably retain the connector rail in an extended position of the connector rail corresponding to the partially extended position of the telescoping carriage, the latch mechanism comprising a latch member on the connector rail and a latch catch on the base plate, the latch member configured to interlock with the latch catch in a snap-fit ​​connection.

51. 44. The detent mechanism of claim 43, wherein the connector rail is configured to be slidably mounted to the telescoping carriage such that the connector rail is slidable relative to the telescoping carriage as the telescoping carriage moves from the partially extended position toward the extended position.

52. 44. The detent mechanism of claim 43, further comprising a guide for the telescoping carriage, the connector rail configured to engage the guide as the connector rail moves relative to the telescoping carriage.

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