Tray table with magnetic detents and / or interlocks

Abstract

The retractable rail system includes rails slidably interconnected to one another such that the rails slide relative to one another along a longitudinal axis. The rails are configured to be operatively connected to the carriage, the rails guiding movement of the carriage between an extended position and a retracted position. The rails include first and second magnetic detents configured to releasably retain the carriage in the partially extended and extended positions, respectively.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] [1] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 300,763, filed January 19, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 300,772, filed January 19, 2022, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] [2] The present invention relates generally to tables. More particularly, the present invention relates to a mechanism for deploying a table associated with an aircraft passenger seat. [Background technology]

[0003] [3] 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 use tables either built directly into the passenger seatback or deployable to one side of the passenger from within the seat console, and the table surface must be expandable to provide a sufficient surface area for placing food, beverages, or other objects thereon.

[0004] [4] Various 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] [5] A slide-out tray table for an aircraft includes a telescoping base that allows the tray table to extend outward from a stowed position to an extended position. The table leaf of the tray table can be moved (e.g., rotated, unfolded, etc.) to the table leaf's extended position for use. However, it can be difficult for some users to know if the tray table or table leaf has been moved to its desired position, which can increase the difficulty of using the tray table. Additionally, some users may mishandle the tray table while the base and / or table leaf are moving between its various positions, which can cause premature wear and / or damage to the base, table leaf, and / or other components of the tray table.

[0006] [6] Thus, 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] [7] 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 stowed within an aircraft seat, seat console, bulkhead, wall, etc. 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] [8] In one aspect, a telescoping rail system for an aircraft tray table includes a rail and a rail mount slidably interconnected with one another such that the rail and the rail mount slide relative to one another along a longitudinal axis. The single rail and the single rail mount that engage with one another may be collectively referred to as a "rail" in some examples. The rail and the rail mount are configured to be operatively connected to the carriage such that the rail guides movement of the carriage between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table. The rail and the rail mount include first and second magnetic detents configured to releasably retain the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table and in an extended position of the tray table, respectively.

[0009] [9] In another aspect, an aircraft slide-out tray table includes a carriage configured to hold a table leaf of the tray table and a telescoping rail system configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly along a longitudinal axis. The rail system is operatively connected to the carriage such that the rail system guides movement of the carriage between the extended and retracted positions of the tray table. The rail system includes a first magnetic detent configured to releasably hold the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table. The rail system includes a second magnetic detent configured to releasably hold the carriage in an extended position of the tray table.

[0010]

[10] In another aspect, a method of configuring a tray table for an aircraft includes operably connecting a carriage of the tray table to a rail system of the tray table such that the rail system guides movement of the carriage between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table. The method includes providing first and second magnetic detents to the rail system such that the rail system is configured to releasably retain the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table and in an extended position of the tray table, respectively.

[0011]

[11] In another aspect, an interlock assembly for an aircraft tray table includes an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The interlock is configured to be held by the tray table such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity. The interlock includes a magnetic component that cooperates with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table such that a repulsive force between the magnetic components holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in a stowed position of the table leaf. The interlock is configured such that the interlock is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity when the table leaf moves from the stowed position of the table leaf toward the deployed position.

[0012]

[12] In another aspect, a slide-out tray table for an aircraft includes a telescoping base configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table. The tray table includes a table leaf attached to the base such that the table leaf moves with the base between the extended position and the retracted position of the tray table. The table leaf is selectively movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The table leaf includes a first magnetic component. The tray table includes an interlock assembly including an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The interlock is held by the base such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity. The interlock includes a second magnetic component that cooperates with the first magnetic component of the table leaf such that a repulsive force between the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in the stowed position.

[0013]

[13] In another aspect, a method of configuring a tray table for an aircraft includes mounting an interlock to a base of the tray table such that the interlock is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position of the interlock and such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity. The method includes providing the interlock with a magnetic component configured to cooperate with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table such that a repulsive force between the magnetic components holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in a stowed position of the table leaf.

[0014]

[14] In another aspect, an interlock assembly for an aircraft tray table includes an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The interlock is configured to be held by the tray table such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity. The interlock includes a magnetic component that cooperates with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table such that the magnetic component holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in the table leaf's stowed position. The interlock is configured such that the interlock is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity when the table leaf moves from the table leaf's stowed position toward the deployed position.

[0015]

[15] 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.

[0016]

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

[0017] [Figure 1]

[17] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a tray table for an aircraft according to one implementation. [Diagram 2]

[18] Figure 2 is another isometric view of the tray table shown in Figure 1 according to one implementation. [Figure 3A]

[19] FIG. 3A is an isometric view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 according to one implementation. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is an isometric view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 according to one implementation. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is an isometric view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 according to one implementation. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3D is an isometric view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 according to one implementation. [Figure 4]

[20] Figure 4 illustrates an isometric view of a portion of the tray table shown in Figures 1 and 2 according to one implementation. [Diagram 5]

[21] Figure 5 illustrates an enlarged isometric view of a portion of the tray table shown in Figure 4 according to one implementation. [Figure 6A]

[22] FIG. 6A shows an isometric view of a portion of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, illustrating operation of the magnetic detents of the tray table according to one implementation. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B shows an isometric view of a portion of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, illustrating operation of the magnetic detents of the tray table according to one implementation. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C shows an isometric view of a portion of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrating operation of the magnetic detents of the tray table according to one implementation. [Figure 7A]

[23] FIG. 7A shows a top view illustrating the operation of the magnetic detent shown in FIG. 6 according to one implementation. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B shows a top view illustrating the operation of the magnetic detent shown in FIG. 6 according to one implementation. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C illustrates a top view showing the operation of the magnetic detent shown in FIG. 6 according to one implementation. [Figure 8]

[24] FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, showing the interlock assembly according to one implementation. [Figure 9]

[25] FIG. 9 illustrates an enlarged isometric view showing the interlock assembly shown in FIG. 8 according to one implementation. [Figure 10]

[26] FIG. 10 illustrates an isometric view of the tray table shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 showing the interlock assembly in a locked position according to one implementation. [Figure 11]

[27] FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating a method of configuring a tray table for an aircraft according to one implementation. [Figure 12]

[28] FIG. 12 shows a flowchart illustrating a method for configuring a tray table for an aircraft according to another implementation. [Figure 13]

[29] Figure 13 shows a schematic diagram of the aircraft implementation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018]

[30] 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 these reference numbers are reproduced below in connection with a discussion of the corresponding drawing features.

[0019]

[31] It should be understood that the drawings and description of the present invention have been simplified for purposes of clarity to show elements relevant to a clear understanding of the present invention, while excluding many other elements found in a rear derailleur. One of ordinary skill 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 of ordinary skill in the art.

[0020]

[32] 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 drawings. As used herein, elements or steps described in the singular and preceded by the words "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. Furthermore, 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.

[0021]

[33] Although various spatial and directional terms, such as "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "vertical," etc., are used to describe embodiments and implementations of the present application, it is understood that such terms are only used with respect to the orientation shown in the drawings. The orientation may be flipped, rotated, or otherwise changed such that a top becomes a bottom if the structure is flipped 180 degrees, a left or right side if the structure is rotated 90 degrees, etc.

[0022]

[34] A slide-out tray table for an aircraft includes a telescoping base that allows the tray table to extend outward from a stowed position to an extended position. The table leaf of the tray table can be moved (e.g., rotated, unfolded, etc.) to the table leaf's extended position for use. However, it can be difficult for some users to know if the tray table or table leaf has been moved to its desired position, which can increase the difficulty of using the tray table. Additionally, some users may mishandle the tray table while the base and / or table leaf are moving between its various positions, which can cause premature wear and / or damage to the base, table leaf, and / or other components of the tray table.

[0023]

[35] A particular implementation provides a telescoping rail system for an aircraft tray table. The rail system includes a rail and a rail mount slidably interconnected to one another such that the rails slide relative to one another along a longitudinal axis. The rail is configured to be operatively connected to the carriage such that the rail guides movement of the carriage between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table. The rail includes first and second magnetic detents configured to releasably retain the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table and in an extended position of the tray table, respectively.

[0024]

[36] In some implementations, an interlock assembly for an aircraft tray table is provided. The interlock assembly includes an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The interlock is configured to be held by the tray table such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity. The interlock includes a magnetic component that cooperates with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table such that a repulsive force between the magnetic components holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in the stowed position of the table leaf. The interlock is configured such that the interlock is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity when the table leaf moves from the stowed position of the table leaf toward the deployed position.

[0025]

[37] Certain implementations provide a rail system 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 rail system that operates in a non-conventional manner to releasably retain the tray table in an extended position of the tray table. Certain implementations provide an interlock assembly that operates in a non-conventional manner to limit movement of the tray table toward a stowed position of the tray table when a table leaf of the tray table is in the extended position.

[0026]

[38] One or more tray tables of 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. For example, certain implementations provide a satisfying feel (e.g., a feel of quality, etc.) of the movement of the tray table to the partially extended position. Further, for example, certain implementations provide a satisfying feel of the movement of the tray table to the extended position of the tray table. Further, for example, the feel of the movement of the tray table to the partially extended position and the feel of the movement of the tray table to the extended position provided by at least some implementations disclosed herein provide an indication to the user that the tray table has moved to a desired position (e.g., a partially extended position, an extended position, etc.). Thus, certain implementations disclosed herein reduce the difficulty of using the tray table. Further, for example, certain implementations provide a rail system that operates quieter, e.g., as compared to at least some known rail systems.

[0027]

[39] At least some implementations of the tray table prevent or reduce the likelihood of damage and / or wear to the tray table caused, for example, by mishandling of the tray table. Thus, for example, maintenance costs are reduced as compared to at least some known tray tables. For example, by providing an indication that the tray table has been moved to an extended position, implementations of the rail system disclosed herein prevent or reduce the likelihood of a user attempting to pull the tray table beyond the extended position. Furthermore, for example, by limiting movement of the tray table toward a stowed position when the table leaf is in the extended position, implementations of the interlock assembly disclosed herein prevent or reduce the likelihood of damage to the tray table and / or adjacent structures of the aircraft caused by the table leaf colliding with adjacent structures of the aircraft when the table leaf is in the extended position.

[0028]

[40] Referring now to the figures, perspective views of a tray table 100 for an aircraft (such as, for example, aircraft 400 shown in FIG. 13) are provided in FIGS. 1 and 2. The tray table 100 includes a telescoping base 102, a table leaf 104 attached to the base 102, one or more magnetic detents 106 and / or 108, and an interlock assembly 110. FIGS. 1 and 2 show the tray table 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. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the table leaf 104 is shown in the stowed position of the table leaf 104. The table leaf 104 is movable from the stowed position to the deployed position of the table leaf 104 shown in FIGS. 3C, 3D, and 10. The tray table 100 may be configured to be mounted adjacent to a seat (e.g., in front of, beside, behind, etc.) in a cabin of an aircraft.

[0029]

[41] Although the magnetic detents 106 and 108 are not visible in Figures 1 and 2 and only a portion of the interlock assembly 110 (e.g., stop 174) is visible, the magnetic detents 106 and 108 and the interlock assembly 110 are described in more detail below with respect to Figures 4-7 and 8-10, respectively. For example, the magnetic detents 106 and 108 are configured to releasably hold the tray table 100 in the partially extended and extended positions of the tray table 100, respectively. Further, for example, the interlock assembly 110 is configured to limit movement of the tray table 100 toward the stowed position of the tray table 100 (e.g., beyond the partially extended position of the tray table 100, beyond the retracted position of the tray table 100, etc.) when the table leaf 104 is in the deployed position of the table leaf 104.

[0030]

[42] Referring now to FIG. 3, the tray table 100 is movable between a stowed position and an extended position of the tray table 100. FIG. 3A illustrates the tray table 100 in the stowed position, and FIG. 3C illustrates the tray table 100 in the extended position. To move the tray table 100 to the extended position (e.g., to unfold the tray table 100 for use), the tray table 100 is movable from the stowed position of the tray table 100 to an 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 112 to move the tray table 100 between the stowed 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 extend outwardly and retract inwardly along the longitudinal axis 112 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 stowed position of the tray table 100 (i.e., the base 102 is moved to the retracted position of the base 102 to move the tray table 100 to the stowed position of the tray table 100). 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 extended position of the base 102, thereby moving the tray table 100 to the extended position of the tray table 100). In other words, the base 102 of the tray table 100 is configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly along the longitudinal axis 112 between the extended position of the tray table 100 and the stowed position of the tray table 100.

[0031]

[43] For example, the base 102 of the tray table 100 includes a telescoping rail system 114 having a rail 116 and a rail mount 118 (the rail 116 is not visible in FIG. 3A). The rails 116 and 118 are slidably interconnected such that the rails 116 and 118 are configured to slide relative to one another along the longitudinal axis 112, thereby extending and retracting the base 102 along the longitudinal axis 112. In some examples, a single rail 116 and a single rail mount 118 engaged with one another may be collectively referred to as a "rail." In some examples, there may be two rails 116 and two rail mounts 118 (each single rail 116 engaged with a single rail mount 118), which are collectively referred to as a "rail." FIGS. 3B, 3C, and 3D show optional covers 120 and 122. The base 102 is not limited to the exemplary rail system 114 shown and described herein. Rather, in addition to or in lieu of rail system 114, base 102 may include any other structure, system, mechanism, device, etc. that enables base 102 to extend and retract along longitudinal axis 112, thereby moving tray table 100 between a stowed position and an extended position. Although rails 116 and rail mounts 118 are shown arranged in sets of two (i.e., rail 116 includes a rail set of two rails 116a and 116b, and rail mount 118 includes a rail mount set of two rail mounts 118a and 118b), each rail 116 may include any other number of rails (e.g., a single rail, a set of three rails, etc.) and each rail mount 118 may include any other number of rail mounts (e.g., a single rail mount, a set of three rails, etc.).

[0032]

[44] The table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 is selectively movable relative to the base 102 between a stowed position of the table leaf 104 and an extended position of the table leaf 104. As shown in FIG. 3A, the table leaf 104 is in its stowed position when the tray table 100 is in its stowed 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 moved relative to the base 102 from its stowed 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 the table leaf 104 extends onto the lap of a corresponding occupant when the tray table 100 is in its extended position.

[0033]

[45] In the illustrated implementation, the table leaf 104 is configured to move from the stowed position to the deployed position by unfolding, and the table leaf 104 is configured to move from the deployed position to the stowed position by folding. For example, an exemplary implementation of the table leaf 104 includes panels 126 and 124 connected to one another at hinge 128 such that panel 126 is configured to rotate relative to panel 124 about hinge 128. Thus, to move the table leaf 104 from the stowed position to the deployed position, panel 126 is rotated about hinge 128 relative to panel 124, thereby unfolding (e.g., about 180 degrees, etc.) panel 126 from the stowed (i.e., folded) position shown in Figures 3A and 3B to the deployed (i.e., unfolded) position shown in Figures 3C and 3D. To move the table leaf 104 from the deployed position to the stowed position, the panel 126 is rotated about the hinge 128 relative to the panel 124, thereby folding (e.g., about 180 degrees, etc.) the panel 126 from the deployed (i.e., unfolded) position shown in Figures 3C and 3D to the stowed (i.e., folded) position shown in Figures 3A and 3B. Although shown as including two folding panels 124 and 126, the table leaf 104 may include any other number of folding panels (e.g., three panels, etc.). In addition to or instead of the folding action of the table leaf 104, in some other implementations the table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 is selectively rotatable (e.g., about a substantially vertical axis, about an axis extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 112, about axis 129, etc.) relative to the base 102 between the stowed position of the table leaf 104 and the deployed position of the table leaf 104. For example, in some implementations, the table leaf 104 includes a panel that is rotated (eg, in the direction of arrow 130) relative to the base 102 to move the table leaf 104 from its stowed position to its deployed position.

[0034]

[46] From the unfolded position shown in Figure 3C, the tray table 100 may 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 112 such that the table leaf 104 is moved along the longitudinal axis 112 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).

[0035]

[47] Although shown in FIG. 3D as being in a deployed position when the tray table 100 is in a 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 a 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.). Additionally, in some implementations, the table leaf 104 is locked in 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 a partially extended position.

[0036]

[48] ​​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 may, for example, allow an occupant of the corresponding seat to stand up and / or leave the seat, provide greater freedom of movement for the occupant, provide more arm and / or leg space for the occupant, etc. Additionally, 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 drink table, etc.).

[0037]

[49] 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 stowed position of the tray table 100 shown in FIG. 3A to the extended position of the tray table 100 shown in FIG. 3B. The table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 is then unfolded from the stowed position of the table leaf 104 shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B to the deployed position of the table leaf 104 shown in FIG. 3C. As shown, in the exemplary implementation, the table leaf 104 is unfolded approximately 180 degrees from the stowed position of the table leaf 104 shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B to the deployed position of the table leaf 104 shown in FIG. 3C. Other angular differences between the stowed and deployed positions of the table leaf 104 are considered to be within the scope of this application.

[0038]

[50] Now referring to FIG. 4, the base 102 of the tray table 100 includes a base plate 136 in which the rail mounts 118 of the rail system 114 are incorporated (e.g., the rail mounts 118 are attached to the base plate 136 as shown in the exemplary implementation of FIG. 4, the rail mounts 118 are integrally formed with the base plate 136 as a single, unified structure, etc.).

[0039]

[51] The base 102 of the tray table 100 includes a telescoping carriage 138. For example, the carriage 138 is configured to telescope inwardly and outwardly along the longitudinal axis 112 to move the tray table 100 between a stowed position of the tray table 100 and an extended position of the tray table 100. Specifically, the carriage 138 is configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly along the longitudinal axis 112 relative to the base plate 136 between an extended position of the carriage 138 shown in Figures 4, 6C, and 7C, and a retracted position of the carriage 138 shown in Figures 6A and 7A. The retracted position of the carriage 138 corresponds to the stowed position of the tray table 100 (i.e., the carriage 138 is moved to the retracted position to move the tray table 100 to the stowed position). The extended position of carriage 138 corresponds to the extended position of tray table 100 (i.e., carriage 138 is moved to the extended position, thereby moving tray table 100 to the extended position). Carriage 138 includes a partially extended position (shown in FIGS. 6B and 7B ) that corresponds to the partially extended position of tray table 100 (i.e., carriage 138 is moved to its partially extended position, thereby moving tray table 100 to its partially extended position).

[0040]

[52] The carriage 138 carries a table leaf 104, shown in phantom in Figure 4. In other words, the table leaf 104 of the tray table 100 is mounted on the carriage 138 such that the table leaf 104 is carried by and moves with the carriage 138 as the carriage 138 telescopes inwardly and outwardly between its retracted and extended positions.

[0041]

[53] The telescoping movement of the carriage 138 is enabled by the rail system 114. In other words, the rails 116 and 118 of the rail system 114 are operatively connected to the carriage 138 such that the rails 116 and 118 guide the movement of the carriage 138 between the extended, partially extended, and retracted positions of the carriage 138. In other words, the rails 116 and 118 are operatively connected to the carriage 138 such that the rails 116 and 118 guide the movement of the carriage 138 between the extended, partially extended, and stowed positions of the tray table 100. For example, in an exemplary implementation, the carriage 138 is slidably interconnected with each rail 116 using a slide block assembly 140, enabling the carriage 138 and the rail 116 to slide relative to one another along the longitudinal axis 112. Rails 116 and 118 are also slidably interconnected to one another in the exemplary implementation using a slide block assembly 142 that allows rails 116 and 118 to slide relative to one another along longitudinal axis 112 .

[0042]

[54] For example, referring now to FIG. 5, an exemplary slide block assembly 140 includes a slide block 144 mounted (e.g., rigidly, floatingly, etc.) to the carriage 138 to enable sliding movement of the carriage 138 along the longitudinal axis 112 relative to the rail 116, and an exemplary slide block assembly 142 includes a slide block 146 mounted (e.g., rigidly, floatingly, etc.) to a corresponding rail 118a or 118b to enable sliding movement of the rails 116a and 116b along the longitudinal axis 112 relative to the rails 118a and 118b. The carriage 138 and rail mount 118a are shown in phantom in FIG. 5 to better illustrate the slide block assemblies 140 and 142, respectively. Each slide block 144 is configured to slide within a channel 148 of the corresponding rail 116a or 116b, thereby enabling sliding movement of the carriage 138 along the longitudinal axis 112 relative to the rail 116. Each slide block 146 is configured to slide within a channel 150 of a corresponding rail 118a or 116b to allow movement of the rail 116 along the longitudinal axis 112 relative to the rail 118. In an exemplary implementation, the slide block assemblies 140 and 142 do not include bearings. The slide block assemblies 140 and 142 can reduce the amount of noise emitted by the rail system 114 during operation (e.g., during telescoping movement of the carriage 138 between retracted and extended positions) as compared to, for example, at least some known rail systems (e.g., rail systems using wheels and / or bearings, etc.). In other words, operation of the exemplary implementation of the rail system 114 can be quieter as compared to, for example, at least some known rail systems (e.g., rail systems using wheels and / or bearings, etc.). Operation of the exemplary implementation of the rail system 114 also has less tendency to coast when moved.

[0043]

[55] In the exemplary implementation, slide blocks 144 and 146 are attached to carriage 138 and rail mount 118, respectively, however, in other implementations, one or more of slide blocks 144 are integrally formed as a single unitary structure with carriage 138 and / or one or more of slide blocks 146 are integrally formed as a single unitary structure with a corresponding rail mount 118.

[0044]

[56] As mentioned above, in an exemplary implementation, slide block 144 is integrated into carriage 138 and slide block 146 is integrated into rail mount 118. In some other exemplary implementations, one or more slide blocks 144 are integrated into (e.g., attached to, integrally formed as a single unitary structure, etc.) corresponding rails 116 and configured to slide within channels (not shown) of carriage 138 and / or one or more slide blocks 146 are integrated into (e.g., attached to, integrally formed as a single unitary structure, etc.) corresponding rails 116 and configured to slide within channels (not shown) of corresponding rail mounts 118.

[0045]

[57] Any other slide block arrangements, configurations, structures, geometries, etc. may be used in addition to or in place of slide block assemblies 140 and / or 142. Additionally, any other arrangements, configurations, structures, geometries, etc. may be used in addition to or in place of slide block assemblies, such as, but not limited to, ball bearing assemblies (not shown), wheels, etc.

[0046]

[58] Referring now to Figures 6 and 7, as briefly described above, an exemplary implementation of the tray table 100 includes magnetic detents 106 and 108 configured to releasably hold the tray table 100 in its partially extended position (shown in Figures 6B and 7B) and extended position (shown in Figures 6C and 7C), respectively. For example, in the exemplary implementation, the rails 116 and rail mounts 118 of the rail system 114 and the carriage 138 include magnetic detents 106 and 108. The magnetic detents 106 are referred to herein as a "first magnetic detent" and the magnetic detents 108 are referred to herein as a "second magnetic detent." Each rail 116 is referred to herein as a "first rail" and each rail mount 118 is referred to herein as a "second rail."

[0047]

[59] The first magnetic detent 106 includes a first magnetic component 152 on the first rail 116 and a second magnetic component 154 on the second rail 118. In other words, the first rail 116 includes the first magnetic component 152 (i.e., the first magnetic component 152 is integrated into the first rail 116) and the second rail mount 118 includes the second magnetic component 154 (i.e., the second magnetic component 154 is integrated into the second rail mount 118). As described below, the magnetic components 152 and 154 cooperate to releasably hold the carriage 138 and the tray table 100, respectively, in a partially extended position.

[0048]

[60] The first and second magnetic components 152 and 154 are each configured such that the magnetic components 152 and 154 are magnetically attracted to one another. For example, in some implementations, at least one of the magnetic components 152 or 154 includes one or more magnets that generate a magnetic field configured to magnetize the ferromagnetic material of the other magnetic component 152 or 154 when the magnetic components 152 and 154 are within a predetermined distance from one another. In some implementations, for example, the magnetic components 152 and 154 each include one or more magnets that are magnetically attracted to one another when they are within a predetermined distance from one another. Each of the magnetic components 152 and 154 may include any number of magnets.

[0049]

[61] As briefly described above, the magnetic components 152 and 154 cooperate with one another to releasably hold the carriage 138 and tray table 100 in a partially extended position. For example, as shown in Figures 6B and 7B, the magnetic components 152 and 154 are disposed at respective positions along the first rail 116 and the second rail mount 118 such that when the carriage 138 is in the partially extended position, the magnetic components 152 and 154 are at least partially aligned along the longitudinal axis 112, thereby within a predetermined distance of one another. Thus, when the carriage 138 and tray table 100 are in the partially extended position, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 152 and 154 releasably holds the carriage 138 and tray table 100 in the partially extended position.

[0050]

[62] In an exemplary implementation, the first magnetic component 152 is a separate component from the body of the first rail 116 that is retained by the body of the first rail 116 using any suitable method, means, fasteners, etc. (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, rivets, pins, interference fits, clearance fits, transition fits, snap fits, clips, clamps, latches, etc.). In other examples, the first magnetic component 152 is defined by at least a portion of the body of the first rail 116, integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the body of the first rail 116, at least partially embedded and / or encapsulated within the body of the first rail 116, and / or the like. For example, one or more segments of the body of the first rail 116 may define the first magnetic component 152, while one or more other segments of the body of the first rail 116 are non-magnetic, etc.

[0051]

[63] In an exemplary implementation, the second magnetic component 154 is a separate component from the body of the slide block 146 of the second rail mount 118 that is retained by the body of the slide block 146 using any suitable method, means, fasteners, etc. (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, rivets, pins, interference fits, clearance fits, intermediate fits, snap fits, clips, clamps, latches, etc.). In other examples, the second magnetic component 154 is defined by at least a portion of the body of the slide block 146, is integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the body of the slide block 146, is at least partially embedded and / or encapsulated within the body of the slide block 146, etc. For example, one or more segments of the body of the slide block 146 may define the second magnetic component 154, while one or more other segments of the body of the slide block 146 are non-magnetic, etc. In yet other examples, another component of the second rail mount 118 (e.g., the body of the second rail mount 118) includes the second magnetic component 154 of the first magnetic detent 106. For example, in some implementations the second magnetic component 154 is carried by the body of the second rail mount 118, defined by at least a portion of the body of the second rail mount 118, integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the body of the second rail mount 118, at least partially embedded and / or encapsulated within the body of the second rail mount 118, and / or the like.

[0052]

[64] Various parameters of the first and second magnetic components 152 and 154, respectively, may be selected to enable the magnetic attractive forces therebetween to releasably hold the carriage 138 and tray table 100 in the partially extended position, such as, but not limited to, the strength of the magnets of the magnetic components 152 and / or 154, the distance between the magnetic components 152 and 154 when the carriage 138 and tray table 100 are in the partially extended position, etc. Each magnet of the first magnetic component 152 and / or second magnetic component 154 may have any number of poles that enable the magnetic components 152 and 154 to function as disclosed herein (e.g., be magnetically attracted to each other, releasably hold the carriage 138 in the partially extended position, etc.). Examples of the number of poles of the magnets of the first magnetic component 152 and / or the second magnetic component 154 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.

[0053]

[65] In some implementations, the first magnetic detent 106 is configured to generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 138, and therefore the tray table 100, moves to the partially extended position. Specifically, the magnetic components 152 and 154 of the first magnetic detent 106 are configured in one implementation to cooperate to generate an audible and / or tactile indication that the carriage 138 and tray table 100 have moved to the partially extended position. There may also be an audible indication that the carriage 138 and tray table 100 have moved to the partially extended position. For example, friction generated through the sliding engagement of the magnetic components 152 and 154 with one another as the carriage 138 moves to the partially extended position may generate a snapping action that may emit an audible and / or tactile indication that the carriage 138 and tray table 100 have moved to the partially extended position. In another example, the rate at which magnetic components 152 and 154 are drawn into alignment with one another upon coming within a predetermined distance of one another is selected (e.g., via the size and / or strength of magnetic components 152 and / or 154, via the number and / or configuration of poles of magnetic components 152 and / or 154, etc.) to provide force feedback that generates an audible and / or tactile indication that carriage 138 and tray table 100 have moved to a partially extended position. In another example, the increase in resistance to further movement of carriage 138 that is generated when magnetic components 152 and 154 align with one another is selected (e.g., via the size and / or strength of magnetic components 152 and / or 154, via the number and / or configuration of poles of magnetic components 152 and / or 154, etc.) to provide force feedback that generates an audible and / or tactile indication that carriage 138 and tray table 100 have moved to a partially extended position.

[0054]

[66] In some implementations, a four-pole configuration provides a greater attractive force between magnetic components 152 and 154 at smaller distances (such as the distance between magnetic components 152 and 154 when carriage 138 and tray table 100 are in a partially extended position), while a four-pole configuration provides a lesser attractive force between magnetic components 152 and 154 at larger distances (such as the distance between magnetic components 152 and 154 when carriage 138 and tray table 100 move away from or towards its partially extended position). In this manner, the four-pole configuration facilitates generating force feedback that generates an audible and / or tactile indication when carriage 138 and tray table 100 move to a partially extended position.

[0055]

[67] The second magnetic detent 108 includes third and fourth magnetic components 156 and 158, respectively, of the first rail 116 and carriage 138, respectively. In other words, the first rail 116 includes the third magnetic component 156 (i.e., the third magnetic component 156 is integrated into the first rail 116) and the carriage 138 includes the fourth magnetic component 158 ​​(i.e., the fourth magnetic component 158 ​​is integrated into the carriage 138). As described below, the magnetic components 156 and 158 cooperate to releasably hold the carriage 138 and the tray table 100, respectively, in the extended position.

[0056]

[68] The third and fourth magnetic components 156 and 158, respectively, are 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 from one another. Each of the magnetic components 156 and 158 may include any number of magnets.

[0057]

[69] As briefly described above, the magnetic components 156 and 158 cooperate with one another to releasably hold the carriage 138 and the tray table 100 in the extended position. For example, as shown in Figures 6C and 7C, the magnetic components 156 and 158 are positioned at respective locations along the first rail 116 and the carriage 138 such that when the carriage 138 is in the extended position, the magnetic components 156 and 158 are at least partially aligned along the longitudinal axis 112, and thereby within a predetermined distance of one another. Thus, when the carriage 138 and the tray table 100 are in the extended position, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 156 and 158 releasably holds the carriage 138 and the tray table 100 in the extended position.

[0058]

[70] In an exemplary implementation, the third magnetic component 156 is a separate component from the body of the first rail 116 that is retained by the body of the first rail 116 using any suitable method, means, fasteners, etc. (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, rivets, pins, interference fits, clearance fits, intermediate fits, snap fits, clips, clamps, latches, etc.). In other examples, the third magnetic component 156 is defined by at least a portion of the body of the first rail 116, is integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the body of the first rail 116, is at least partially embedded and / or encapsulated within the body of the first rail 116, and / or the like. For example, one or more segments of the body of the first rail 116 may define the third magnetic component 156, while one or more other segments of the body of the first rail 116 are non-magnetic, etc.

[0059]

[71] In an exemplary implementation, the fourth magnetic component 158 ​​is a separate component from the body of the slide block 144 of the carriage 138, retained by the body of the slide block 144 using any suitable method, means, fasteners, etc. (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, rivets, pins, interference fits, clearance fits, intermediate fits, snap fits, clips, clamps, latches, etc.). In other examples, the fourth magnetic component 158 ​​is defined by at least a portion of the body of the slide block 144, integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the body of the slide block 144, at least partially embedded and / or encapsulated within the body of the slide block 144, and / or the like. For example, one or more segments of the body of the slide block 144 may define the fourth magnetic component 158, while one or more other segments of the body of the slide block 144 are non-magnetic, etc. In yet other examples, another component of the carriage 138 (e.g., the body of the carriage 138) includes the fourth magnetic component 158 ​​of the second magnetic detent 108. For example, in some implementations, the fourth magnetic component 158 ​​is carried by the body of the carriage 138, defined by at least a portion of the body of the carriage 138, integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the body of the carriage 138, at least partially embedded and / or encapsulated within the body of the carriage 138, and / or the like.

[0060]

[72] Various parameters of the third and fourth magnetic components 156 and 158, respectively, may be selected to enable the magnetic attractive forces therebetween to releasably hold the carriage 138 and tray table 100 in the extended position, such as, but not limited to, the strength of the magnets of the magnetic components 156 and / or 158, the distance between the magnetic components 156 and 158 when the carriage 138 and tray table 100 are in the extended position, etc. Each magnet of the third magnetic component 156 and / or the fourth magnetic component 158 ​​may have any number of poles that enable the magnetic components 156 and 158 to function as disclosed herein (e.g., be magnetically attracted to each other, releasably hold the carriage 138 in the extended position, etc.). Examples of the number of poles of the magnets of the third magnetic component 156 and / or the fourth magnetic component 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.

[0061]

[73] In some implementations, the second magnetic detent 108 is configured to generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 138, and therefore the tray table 100, moves to the extended position. Specifically, the magnetic components 156 and 158 of the second magnetic detent 108, in one implementation, are configured to cooperate to generate an audible and / or tactile indication that the carriage 138 and tray table 100 have moved to the extended position. For example, friction generated through the sliding engagement of the magnetic components 156 and 158 with one another as the carriage 138 moves to the extended position may generate a snap action that emits an audible and / or tactile indication that the carriage 138 and tray table 100 have moved to the extended position. In another example, the rate at which magnetic components 156 and 158 are drawn into alignment with one another upon coming 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 138 and tray table 100 have moved to the extended position. In another example, the increase in resistance to further movement of carriage 138 that is generated as 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 138 and tray table 100 have moved to the extended position.

[0062]

[74] In some implementations, a four-pole configuration provides a greater attractive force between magnetic components 156 and 158 at shorter distances (such as the distance between magnetic components 156 and 158 when carriage 138 and tray table 100 are in the extended position), while a four-pole configuration provides a lesser attractive force between magnetic components 156 and 158 at longer distances (such as the distance between magnetic components 156 and 158 when carriage 138 and tray table 100 move away from or towards its extended position). In this manner, the four-pole configuration facilitates generating force feedback that generates an audible and / or tactile indication when carriage 138 and tray table 100 move to the extended position.

[0063]

[75] In operation, when a user moves (e.g., pulls, pushes, etc.) the carriage 138 of the tray table 100 in direction 134 from the retracted position of the carriage 138 and tray table 100 shown in Figures 6A and 7A (also referred to as the stowed position of the tray table 100) toward its extended position, the first rail 116 moves (relative to the base plate 136) with the carriage 138 in direction 134. For example, stiction between the first rail 116 and the slide block 144 of the carriage 138 may be sufficient to pull the first rail 116 with the carriage 138 in direction 134. When the carriage 138 reaches its partially extended position, the first magnetic component 152 and the second magnetic component 154 of the first magnetic detent 106 each align along the longitudinal axis 112, thereby magnetically interlocking with one another to releasably hold the carriage 138 and the tray table 100 in the partially extended position, as shown, for example, in Figures 6B and 7B.

[0064]

[76] As mentioned above, in some implementations, the magnetic components 152 and 154 of the first magnetic detent 106 generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 138 moves to the partially extended position. The audible and / or tactile indication generated by the magnetic components 152 and 154 when the carriage 138 moves to the partially extended position informs (e.g., reassures) 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 first magnetic detent 106 improves the user's experience, such as 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 tray table 100 that is more intuitive to use.

[0065]

[77] From the partially extended position shown in Figures 6B and 7B, the carriage 138, and thereby the tray table 100, may be moved to the extended position of the carriage 138 and tray table 100, as shown, for example, in Figures 6C and 7C. Specifically, the carriage 138 may be moved in the direction 134 with sufficient force to overcome the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 152 and 154 of the first magnetic detent 106, thereby allowing the carriage 138 to move in the direction 134 into the extended position of the carriage 138 and tray table 100. As is evident from a comparison of Figures 7B and 7C, as the carriage 138 moves from the partially extended position of the carriage 138 and tray table 100 toward the extended position of the carriage 138 and tray table 100, the carriage 138 moves (e.g., slides, etc.) along the longitudinal axis 112 (in the direction 134) relative to the first rail 116. In some implementations, the magnetic components 152 and 154 of the first magnetic detent 106 generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 138 is released from the partially extended position to inform (e.g., reassure) the user that the tray table 100 has been successfully moved from the partially extended position.

[0066]

[78] As the carriage 138 moves along the longitudinal axis 112 in the direction 134 to its extended position, the third magnetic component 156 and the fourth magnetic component 158 ​​of the second magnetic detent 108 each align along the longitudinal axis 112, thereby magnetically interlocking with one another to releasably hold the carriage 138 and the tray table 100 in the extended position, as shown, for example, in Figures 6C and 7C. As mentioned above, in some implementations, the magnetic components 156 and 158 of the second magnetic detent 108 generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 138 moves to the extended position. The audible and / or tactile indication generated by the magnetic components 156 and 158 when the carriage 138 moves to the extended position informs (e.g., reassures) the user that the tray table 100 has been successfully moved to the extended position. The tactile and / or audible indication produced by the second magnetic detent 108 improves the user's experience, for example, by providing a satisfying feel (e.g., a feel of quality) of the movement of the tray table 100 to the extended position, by providing a tray table 100 that is more intuitive to use, etc.

[0067] 6C and 7C, the carriage 138, and thus the tray table 100, can be returned to its partially extended position by moving (e.g., pushing, pulling, etc.) the carriage 138 in the direction of arrow 160 with sufficient force to overcome the magnetic attraction between the magnetic components 156 and 158, thereby allowing the carriage 138 to move relative to the first rail 116 in the direction 160 toward the retracted position of the carriage 138 shown in FIGS. 6A and 7A. For example, stiction between the first rail 116 and the slide block 146 of the second rail mount 118 can be sufficient to hold the first rail 116 in position along the longitudinal axis 112 as the carriage 138 moves relative to the first rail 116 from the extended position of the carriage 138 and tray table 100 toward the partially extended position of the carriage 138 and tray table 100. In some implementations, the magnetic components 156 and 158 of the second magnetic detent 108 generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 138 is released from the extended position to inform (e.g., reassure) the user that the tray table 100 has been successfully moved from the extended position. When the carriage 138 reaches its partially extended position, the first magnetic component 152 and the second magnetic component 154 of the first magnetic detent 106, respectively, align along the longitudinal axis 112, thereby magnetically interlocking with one another to releasably hold the carriage 138 and the tray table 100 in the partially extended position, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 6B and 7B .

[0068]

[80] From the partially extended position of carriage 138 and tray table 100, carriage 138 can be moved in direction 160 with sufficient force to overcome the magnetic attraction between magnetic components 152 and 154, thereby allowing carriage 138 to move in direction 160 relative to second rail mount 118 toward a retracted (i.e., stowed) position of carriage 138 and tray table 100, as shown, for example, in Figures 6A and 7A. As carriage 138 moves in direction 160 toward its retracted position, first rail 116 moves with carriage 138 relative to second rail mount 118 (e.g., via stiction between carriage slide block 144 and first rail 116). As described above, in some implementations, the magnetic components 152 and 154 of the first magnetic detent 106 generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the carriage 138 is released from the partially extended position to inform (e.g., reassure) the user that the tray table 100 has been successfully moved from the partially extended position.

[0069]

[81] Referring now to Figures 8-10, an exemplary implementation of the tray table 100 includes an interlock assembly 110 configured to limit movement of the tray table 100 toward a stowed position of the tray table 100 (e.g., past a partially extended position of the tray table 100, past an exit position of the tray table 100, etc.) when the table leaf 104 is in its deployed position. The interlock assembly 110 includes an interlock 162 that is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position. Figures 8 and 9 show the interlock 162 in the unlocked position, and Figure 10 shows the interlock 162 in the locked position.

[0070]

[82] In an exemplary implementation, the interlock 162 is configured to pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position. For example, the interlock 162 includes a lever 164 that is adjacent to the tray table 100 (e.g., adjacent a side plate 166 of the rail system 114) such that the lever 164 pivots about a fulcrum 168 between the locked and unlocked positions. The exemplary implementation of the lever 164 extends a length from an actuation end 170 to a stop end 172. As described below, the stop end 172 of the lever 164 is configured to engage a stop 174 (not visible in FIG. 9 ) of the tray table 100 when the interlock 162 is in the locked position. In an exemplary implementation, the actuation end 170 and the stop end 172 of the lever 164 are configured to rotate between the unlocked and locked positions of the interlock 162. For example, ends 170 and 172 move along respective arcs 176 and 178 (i.e., rotate about fulcrum 168) as lever 164 pivots between the unlocked and locked positions of interlock 162. Fulcrum 168 is shown as being positioned approximately in the center of the length of lever 164, but may have any other location along the length of lever 164 that enables interlock 162 to function as described and / or illustrated herein.

[0071]

[83] The lever 164 of the interlock 162 is held by the tray table 100 such that the interlock 162 is biased to the locked position by gravity. There is also a spring to assist the bias. In other words, in the natural rest position of the lever 164, gravity and the spring hold the stop end 172 in the locked position of the interlock 162 shown in FIG. 10. For example, the stop end 172 of the lever 164 may have a greater weight compared to the actuation end 170 of the lever 164, such that gravity pulls the stop end 172 along the arc 178 in the direction of the arrow 180 in the absence of any force acting on the actuation end 170 along the arc 176 in the direction of the arrow 182.

[0072]

[84] The interlock 162 includes a first magnetic component 184 on the table leaf 104 and a second magnetic component 186 on the actuating end 170 of the lever 164, respectively. In other words, the table leaf 104 includes the first magnetic component 184 (i.e., the first magnetic component 184 is integrated into the table leaf 104) and the actuating end portion 170 of the lever 164 includes the second magnetic component 186 (i.e., the second magnetic component 186 is integrated into the end portion 170 of the lever 164). As described below, when the table leaf 104 is in its stowed position, the magnetic components 184 and 186 cooperate to releasably hold the interlock 162 in the locked position. The magnetic component 184 is not visible in FIG.

[0073]

[85] The first and second magnetic components 184 and 186, respectively, are configured such that the magnetic components 184 and 186 magnetically repel each other when the magnetic components 184 and 186 are within a predetermined distance of each other. For example, in some implementations, at least one of the magnetic components 184 or 186 includes one or more magnets that generate a magnetic field having a different polarity compared to the other magnetic component 184 or 186. In some implementations, for example, the magnetic components 184 and 186 each include one or more magnets that magnetically repel each other when they are within a predetermined distance of each other. Each of the magnetic components 184 and 186 may include any number of magnets.

[0074]

[86] As briefly described above, the magnetic components 184 and 186 cooperate with one another to releasably hold the interlock 162 in a locked position when the table leaf 104 is in its stowed position. For example, the magnetic components 184 and 186 are disposed at respective locations along the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 (not visible in FIG. 10) and the actuating end 170 of the lever 164 such that the magnetic components 184 and 186 are at least partially aligned (e.g., along axis 188, etc.) and thereby within a predetermined distance of one another when the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 is in its stowed position, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 8 and 9. Thus, when the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 is in the stowed position of the table leaf 104, the magnetic repulsive force between the magnetic components 184 and 186 acts on the actuating end 170 of the lever 164 against the force of gravity acting on the stop end 172 of the lever 164 to hold the lever 164 in the unlocked position of the interlock 162, as shown, for example, in Figures 8 and 9.

[0075]

[87] In an exemplary implementation, the first magnetic component 184 is a separate component from the body of the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 that is retained by the body of the first rail 116 using any suitable method, means, fasteners, etc. (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, rivets, pins, interference fit, clearance fit, intermediate fit, snap fit, clips, clamps, latches, etc.). In some examples, the first magnetic component 184 is defined by at least a portion of the body of the table leaf panel 126, is integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the body of the table leaf panel 126, is at least partially embedded and / or encapsulated within the body of the table leaf panel 126, and / or the like. For example, one or more segments of the body of the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 may define the first magnetic component 184, while one or more other segments of the body of the table leaf panel 126 are non-magnetic, etc.

[0076]

[88] In exemplary implementations, the second magnetic component 186 is a separate component from the body of the lever 164 that is retained by the body of the lever 164 using any suitable method, means, fasteners, etc. (e.g., adhesives, welding, brazing, threaded fasteners, rivets, pins, interference fits, clearance fits, intermediate fits, snap fits, clips, clamps, latches, etc.). In some examples, the second magnetic component 186 is defined by at least a portion of the body of the lever 164, is integrally formed as a single unitary structure with the body of the lever 164, is at least partially embedded and / or encapsulated within the body of the lever 164, and / or the like. For example, one or more segments of the body of the lever 164 may define the second magnetic component 186, while one or more other segments of the body of the lever 164 are non-magnetic, etc.

[0077]

[89] Various parameters of the first and second magnetic components 184 and 186, respectively, may be selected to enable magnetic repulsion therebetween to releasably hold the interlock in the unlocked position, such as, but not limited to, the strength of the magnets of the magnetic components 184 and / or 186, the distance between the magnetic components 184 and 186 when the table leaf 104 is in the stowed position, etc. Each magnet of the first magnetic component 184 and / or the second magnetic component 186 may have any number of poles that enable the magnetic components 184 and 186 to function as disclosed herein (e.g., magnetically repel each other, releasably hold the interlock 162 in the unlocked position, etc.). Examples of the number of poles of the magnets of the first magnetic component 184 and / or the second magnetic component 186 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. In some implementations, the first and second magnetic components 184 and 186 are configured to generate an audible and / or tactile indication when the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 is moved into and / or out of a stowed position.

[0078]

[90] In operation, as the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 is folded from the deployed position of the panel 126 to the stowed position of the table leaf panel 126, the first magnetic component 184 and the second magnetic component 186 are each moved relative to one another (i.e., brought together) so as to align with one another within a predetermined distance of one another. As the magnetic components 184 and 186 and the actuating end 170 of the panel 126 are moved to align with one another within a predetermined distance of one another, the magnetic repulsion between the magnetic components 184 and 186 urges the actuating end 170 of the lever 174 to move along the arc 176 in the direction 182 against the bias of gravity acting on the stop end 172 of the lever 164, thereby moving the lever 164 of the interlock 162 from the locked position to the unlocked position of the interlock 162. Thus, when the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 is in the stowed position of the table leaf 104 (e.g., as shown in Figures 8 and 9), the repulsive force between the magnetic components 184 and 186 releasably holds the interlock 162 in the unlocked position.

[0079]

[91] When the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 is moved (e.g., unfolded in the exemplary implementation) from the stowed position shown in Figure 8 and 9 to the deployed position shown in Figure 10, the magnetic components 184 and 186 are moved away from each other such that the magnetic components are no longer within a predetermined distance of each other. Thus, the repulsive force between the magnetic components 184 and 186 is removed such that the interlock 162 moves from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity as the panel 126 of the table leaf 104 unfolds from the stowed position of the table leaf 104 towards the deployed position. It should be understood that the interlock assembly 110 is not limited to use with a table leaf 104 that is folded and unfolded between a stowed position and a deployed position. Rather, the interlock assembly 110 may be used with a table leaf 104 that rotates between its stowed position and the deployed position. For example, rotation of the table leaf 104 from the stowed position to the deployed position moves the magnetic components 184 and 186 away from outside the predetermined distance of each other.

[0080]

[92] As briefly described above, the interlock assembly 110 is configured to limit movement of the tray table 100 toward its stowed position when the table leaf 104 is in its deployed position. For example, in the locked position of the interlock 162 shown in FIG. 10, the stop end 172 of the lever 164 is aligned along the path P of the stop 174 such that the stop end 172 of the lever 164 is configured to engage the stop 174 when the carriage 138 moves toward the stowed position. The stop 174 may be positioned along the length of the tray table 100 (i.e., along the longitudinal axis 112) at any location where it is desirable to limit movement of the carriage 138 toward its stowed position when the table leaf 104 is deployed. For example, in some implementations, the stops 174 are positioned along the length of the tray table 100 at positions that limit movement of the tray table 100 beyond a partially extended position of the tray table 100 and / or beyond an exit position of the tray table 100 toward the stowed position when the table leaf 104 is in the deployed position.

[0081]

[93] By limiting the movement of tray table 100 toward the stowed position, interlock assembly 110 prevents or reduces the likelihood that table leaf 104 will contact (e.g., collide with) adjacent aircraft structure if a user attempts to push tray table 100 toward the stowed position when table leaf 104 is in the extended position of table leaf 104. Interlock assembly 106 thus facilitates preventing damage to tray table 100 and / or aircraft structure adjacent to tray table 100.

[0082]

[94] Although the exemplary implementation of the interlock assembly 110 is shown and described herein as operating using a repulsive force between the magnetic components 184 and 186, in some implementations the interlock assembly 110 can hold the interlock 162 in the unlocked position using an attractive force between the magnetic components 184 and 186 (e.g., using a fulcrum 168 located along the actuation end 170 of the lever 164, etc.). Furthermore, in some implementations the lever 164 moves linearly between the unlocked and locked positions of the interlock 162 in addition to or in lieu of the pivoting movement of the exemplary implementation. While shown herein as having an arm or finger structure, the stop 174 may additionally or alternatively include any other structure (e.g., a pin structure, etc.) that enables the stop 174 to function as described and / or illustrated herein.

[0083]

[95] Figure 11 illustrates a method 200 of configuring a tray table (such as, for example, the tray table 100 shown in Figures 1-10) for an aircraft (such as, for example, the aircraft 400 shown in Figure 13) according to one implementation. The method 200 includes, at 202, operatively connecting a carriage of the tray table to a rail system of the tray table such that the rail system guides movement of the carriage between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table. At 204, the method 200 includes providing first and second magnetic detents to the rail system such that the rail system is configured to releasably retain the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table and in an extended position of the tray table, respectively.

[0084]

[96] Figure 12 illustrates a method 300 of configuring a tray table (such as, for example, the tray table 100 shown in Figures 1-10) for an aircraft (such as, for example, the aircraft 400 shown in Figure 13) according to one implementation. The method 300 includes, at 302, mounting an interlock to a base of the tray table such that the interlock is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position of the interlock, and such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity and assisted by a spring. At 304, the method 300 includes providing an interlock having a magnetic component configured to cooperate with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table such that a repulsive force between the magnetic components holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in a stowed position of the table leaf.

[0085]

[97] In some implementations, the method 300 further includes, at 306, providing a stop on a base of the tray table such that when the table leaf is in the table leaf extended position, the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage the stop to limit movement of the tray table toward the retracted position of the tray table.

[0086]

[98] Optionally, providing the interlock at 304 includes configuring a magnetic component of the interlock at 304a such that the interlock is moved by gravity from the unlocked position to the locked position when the table leaf moves from the stowed position towards the deployed position of the table leaf.

[0087]

[99] Referring now to FIG. 13, examples of the present application may be described in the context of using the tray table disclosed herein on an aircraft 400 including an airframe 402. The aircraft 400 includes a number of high level systems 404 and an interior 406. Examples of high level systems 404 include one or more of a propulsion system 408, an electrical system 410, a hydraulic fluid system 412, a control system 414, and an environmental system 416. 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.). Additionally, while 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.

[0088]

[0100] Although the invention has been described above in connection with use on passenger aircraft, the invention is not limited to that environment and may also be used in passenger trains, cars, buses, and other vehicles including, but not limited to, carts, carriages, and rail-mounted transport vehicles.

[0089]

[0101] Similarly, the present invention is not limited to use in vehicles, but may be used in non-vehicle or stationary environments where there is seating and it is desirable to stow and deploy a flat work surface for use in the type of activity where a flat surface such as a table, desk, countertop, etc. Additionally, the present invention is not limited to use in connection with seats, but may be used in any environment where the device is housed within and deployed from a recess formed in a surface (e.g., wall, desktop, table), or is attached to a flat surface (e.g., wall, desktop, table) that does not have a recess in which the device is housed.

[0090]

[0102] Additionally, the claimed invention 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 described above would apply. Similarly, the length and width of the table surface area provided by the table assembly should not be construed as being 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 drawings herein (and the various components shown therein) should not be construed as being drawn to scale.

[0091]

[0103] The following sections describe further aspects: Clause Set A: A1. A telescoping rail system for an aircraft tray table, the rail system comprising a rail and a rail mount slidably interconnected to one another for sliding relative to one another along a longitudinal axis, the rail configured to be operatively connected to the carriage such that the rail and rail mount guide movement of the carriage between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table, the rail and rail mount comprising first and second magnetic detents configured to releasably retain the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table and in the extended position of the tray table, respectively. A2. The rail system of any preceding clause, wherein the rail and rail mount include first and second rails with respective first and second magnetic components of the first magnetic detent. A3. The rail system of any preceding clause, wherein the rail comprises a first rail configured to be slidably interconnected with the carriage, the first rail and the carriage comprising respective third and fourth magnetic components of the second magnetic detent. A4. The rail system of any preceding clause, wherein a first magnetic detent comprises first and second magnetic components on respective first and second rails of the rails, said first and second magnetic components configured to releasably retain said carriage in a partially extended position of said tray table when said first and second magnetic components are at least partially aligned with one another along a longitudinal axis. A5. The rail system of any preceding section, wherein the second magnetic detent comprises third and fourth magnetic components on the first rail and carriage of the rail, respectively, the third and fourth magnetic components configured to releasably retain the carriage in an extended position of the tray table when the third and fourth magnetic components are at least partially aligned with one another along a longitudinal axis. A6. A rail system as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the rails are slidably interconnected to each other by slide blocks that allow the rails to slide relative to each other. A7. The rail system of any preceding section, wherein the rail comprises a first and a second rail, the first rail comprising a first magnetic component of a first magnetic detent, and the second rail comprising a slide block slidably interconnecting the second rail to the first rail, the slide block comprising a second magnetic component of a first magnetic detent. A8. The rail system of any preceding clause, wherein the first magnetic detent is configured to generate an audible indication when the carriage moves to the partially extended position. A9. The rail system of any preceding clause, wherein the first magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the carriage moves to the partially extended position. A10. The rail system of any preceding clause, wherein the second magnetic detent is configured to generate an audible indication when the carriage moves to the extended position. A11. The rail system of any preceding clause, wherein the second magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the carriage moves to the extended position. A12. The rail system of any preceding clause, wherein the rail comprises a rail set. Clause set B: B1. An aircraft slide-out tray table, a carriage configured to hold a table leaf of the tray table; a telescoping rail system configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly along a longitudinal axis, said rail system operatively connected to said carriage to guide movement of said carriage between an extended position and a retracted position of said tray table, wherein said rail system comprises: a first magnetic detent configured to releasably retain the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table; a second magnetic detent configured to releasably retain the carriage in the extended position of the tray table. B2. A tray table as described in any preceding clause, wherein the rail system comprises first and second rails slidably interconnected to one another, the first and second rails comprising respective first and second magnetic components of the first magnetic detent. B3. A tray table as described in any preceding clause, wherein the rail system comprises a rail slidably interconnected with the carriage, the rail and the carriage comprising respective third and fourth magnetic components of the second magnetic detent. B4. A tray table as described in any preceding clause, wherein the first magnetic detent comprises first and second magnetic components on respective first and second rails of the rail system, the first and second magnetic components configured to releasably hold the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table when the first and second magnetic components are at least partially aligned with one another along the longitudinal axis. B5. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the second magnetic detent comprises third and fourth magnetic components on each of the rail of the rail system and the carriage, the third and fourth magnetic components configured to releasably hold the carriage in an extended position of the tray table when the third and fourth magnetic components are at least partially aligned with each other along a longitudinal axis. B6. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the rail system comprises rails slidably interconnected with each other and with the carriage via slide blocks that allow the rails to slide relative to each other and with the carriage. B7. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the rail system comprises first and second rails, the second rail comprising a slide block slidably interconnecting the second rail to the first rail, the slide block comprising a second magnetic component of a first magnetic detent. B8. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the carriage comprises a slide block slidably interconnecting the carriage with the rail system, the slide block comprising a fourth magnetic component of the second magnetic detent. B9. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the first magnetic detent is configured to generate an audible indication when the carriage moves to the partially extended position. B10. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the first magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the carriage moves to the partially extended position. B11. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the second magnetic detent is configured to generate an audible indication when the carriage moves to the extended position. B12. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the second magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the carriage moves to the extended position. B13. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the rail system comprises rail sets slidably interconnected with one another such that the rail sets slide relative to one another along a longitudinal axis, thereby guiding movement of the carriage between extended and retracted positions of the tray table. Section set C: C1. A method of constructing a tray table for an aircraft, comprising: operatively connecting a carriage of the tray table to a rail system of the tray table, whereby the rail system guides movement of the carriage between extended and retracted positions of the tray table; providing first and second magnetic detents on the rail system such that the rail system is configured to releasably hold the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table and in an extended position of the tray table, respectively. Section Set D: D1. An interlock assembly for an aircraft tray table comprising: 1. An interlock assembly comprising an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, the interlock configured to be held by the tray table such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity, the interlock comprising a magnetic component that cooperates with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table such that a repulsive force between the magnetic components holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in its stowed position, and wherein the interlock is configured to be moved from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity as the table leaf moves from the stowed position of the table leaf towards its deployed position. D2. An interlock assembly as described in any preceding clause, wherein the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage a stop on the tray table to limit movement of the tray table toward a retracted position of the tray table when the table leaf is in the extended position. D3. An interlock assembly as described in any preceding clause, wherein the magnetic component of the interlock is configured such that the interlock moves from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity when the table leaf expands from the stowed position towards the deployed position of the table leaf. D4. The interlock assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the interlock comprises a lever configured to be held by the tray table such that the lever pivots between the locked and unlocked positions of the interlock. D5. An interlock assembly as described in any preceding paragraph, wherein the interlock comprises a lever that pivots about a fulcrum between the locked and unlocked positions of the interlock, the lever extending from an actuation end comprising the magnetic component to a stop end configured to engage a stop on the tray table. D6. An interlock assembly as described in any preceding clause, wherein the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage a stop on the tray table when the table leaf is in the extended position to limit movement of the tray table beyond the withdrawn position of the tray table. D7. The interlock assembly of any preceding clause, wherein an end of the interlock rotates between the unlocked position and the locked position. Section set E: E1. A slide-out tray table for an aircraft, comprising: a telescoping base configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table; a table leaf attached to the base such that the table leaf moves with the base between the extended and retracted positions of the tray table, the table leaf being selectively movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, the table leaf comprising a first magnetic component; an interlock assembly; a tray table, the interlock assembly comprising an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, the interlock held by the base so as to be biased to the locked position by gravity, the interlock comprising a second magnetic component cooperating with the first magnetic component of the table leaf such that a repulsive force between the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in the stowed position. E2. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the interlock is configured such that when the table leaf moves from its stowed position towards its deployed position, the interlock is moved by gravity and a spring from its unlocked position to its locked position. E3. A tray table as described in any preceding clause, wherein the base of the tray table includes a stop and the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage the stop when the table leaf is in the extended position to limit movement of the tray table toward the retracted position of the tray table. E4. A tray table as described in any preceding clause, wherein the first and second magnetic components are configured such that the interlock moves from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity and a spring when the table leaf extends from its stowed position toward its deployed position. E5. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the interlock comprises a lever carried by the tray table such that the lever pivots between the locked and unlocked positions of the interlock. E6. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the base of the tray table includes a stop and the interlock includes a lever that pivots about a fulcrum between the locked and unlocked positions of the interlock, the lever extending from an actuation end including the magnetic component to a stop end configured to engage the stop. E7. A tray table as described in any preceding clause, wherein the base of the tray table includes a stop and the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage the stop of the tray table when the table leaf is in the extended position to limit movement of the tray table beyond the withdrawn position of the tray table. E8. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the base includes a rail and a stop arm extending outwardly from the rail toward the interlock, and when the interlock is in the locked position, the stop is configured to engage the interlock as the tray table is moved toward the retracted position. E9. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein the first magnetic component is integrated within the table leaf. E10. The tray table of any preceding clause, wherein an end of the interlock rotates between the unlocked position and the locked position. Clause set F: F1. A method of constructing a tray table for an aircraft, comprising: mounting the interlock to a base of the tray table such that the interlock is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position of the interlock and such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity and a spring; and providing the interlock with a magnetic component configured to cooperate with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table such that a repulsive force between the magnetic components holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in a stowed position of the table leaf. F2. The method of any preceding clause, wherein providing the interlock comprises configuring the magnetic component of the interlock such that the interlock is moved by gravity and a spring from the unlocked position to the locked position when the table leaf moves from the stowed position toward the table leaf's deployed position. F3. The method of any preceding clause, further comprising providing a stop on the base of the tray table, the locked position of the interlock being configured to engage the stop to limit movement of the tray table towards a retracted position of the tray table when the table leaf is in its extended position. Clause set G: G1. An interlock assembly for an aircraft tray table comprising: 1. An interlock assembly comprising an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, the interlock configured to be held by the tray table such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity and a spring, the interlock comprising a magnetic component that cooperates with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table such that the magnetic component holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in its stowed position, the interlock configured such that the interlock is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity and a spring when the table leaf moves from the stowed position of the table leaf towards its deployed position.

[0092]

[0104] As used herein, a structure, element, or element that is "configured to" perform a task or operation is specifically structurally formed, constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task or operation. For clarity and avoidance of doubt, an object that can merely be modified to perform a task or operation is not "configured to" perform a task or operation as used herein.

[0093]

[0105] As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, any ranges or values ​​set forth herein can be broadened or modified without losing the effect sought.

[0094]

[0106] 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 or acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0095]

[0107] 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 described problems or those that have any or all of the described benefits and advantages. Further, it will be understood that references to "an" item refer to one or more of those items.

[0096]

[0108] The order of execution or performance of operations in the examples of the present application illustrated and described herein is not essential unless otherwise specified. That is, operations may be performed in any order unless otherwise specified, and the examples of the present application may include more or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that executing or performing a particular operation before, contemporaneously with, or after another operation (e.g., a different step, etc.) is within the scope of the aspects and implementations of the present application.

[0097]

[0109] The term "comprising" is used herein to mean including the following features or acts without excluding the presence of one or more additional features or acts. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. The use of "including," "comprising," "having," "including," "within" and variations thereof herein is meant to include the items listed thereafter as well as additional items. Furthermore, reference to "one embodiment" or "an implementation" is 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."

[0098]

[0110] When introducing elements of aspects of the present disclosure or examples thereof, 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 expressly indicated otherwise.

[0099]

[0111] The phrase "one or more of the following 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 term "and / or" as used in the 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 construed in the same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, 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," can 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.

[0100]

[0112] As used herein and in the claims, "or" shall be understood to have the same meaning as "and / or" as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or "and / or" shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., including at least one of, but also including more than one, and optionally including additional items not listed. Only terms clearly indicating the contrary, such as "only one of" or "exactly one of," or "consisting of," when used in the claims, shall refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of, or a list of elements. In general, the term "or" as used herein shall 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, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0101]

[0113] As used herein and in the claims, the phrase "at least one" in reference to 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 does not necessarily include at least one of every element specifically listed in the list of elements, and does not exclude any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for elements to optionally be present 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. 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 that includes two or more As (and optionally includes elements other than B), optionally with no B present; in another embodiment to at least one that includes two or more Bs (and optionally includes elements other than A), optionally with no A present; in yet another embodiment to at least one that optionally includes two or more As, and at least one that optionally includes two or more Bs (and optionally includes other elements), etc.

[0102]

[0114] 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 relative to another, or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed. Ordinal terms are used solely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having the same name (except for the use of ordinal terms) to distinguish among elements of the claims.

[0103]

[0115] 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. Since various changes may 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.

[0104]

[0116] 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 may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments of the present application without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments of the present application, the embodiments are in no way limiting, but are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reviewing 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 "in which" are used as the plain English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein." Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" 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 such claim limitations expressly use the phrase "means for" followed by a recitation of a function devoid of further structure.

[0105]

[0117] This specification uses examples to disclose various embodiments of the present application, including the best mode, and also to enable any person of ordinary skill in the art to practice various embodiments of the present application, including making and using any devices or systems, and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the present application is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those of ordinary skill 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 have insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A telescoping rail system comprising:

1. A rail system comprising rails slidably interconnected to one another such that the rails slide relative to one another along a longitudinal axis, the rails configured to be operatively connected to the carriage to guide movement of the carriage between an extended position and a retracted position, the rails comprising first and second magnetic detents configured to releasably retain the carriage in a partially extended position and in the extended position, respectively.

2. The rail system of claim 1 , wherein the rail comprises a first rail and a second rail comprising first and second magnetic components, respectively, of the first magnetic detent.

3. 2. The rail system of claim 1, wherein the rail comprises a first rail configured to be slidably interconnected with the carriage, the first rail and the carriage comprising respective third and fourth magnetic components of the second magnetic detent.

4. 2. The rail system of claim 1, wherein the first magnetic detent comprises first and second magnetic components on respective first and second rails of the rails, the first and second magnetic components configured to releasably retain the carriage in the partially extended position when the first and second magnetic components are at least partially aligned with one another along the longitudinal axis.

5. 2. The rail system of claim 1, wherein the second magnetic detent comprises third and fourth magnetic components on a first one of the rails and the carriage, respectively, the third and fourth magnetic components configured to releasably hold the carriage in an extended position when the third and fourth magnetic components are at least partially aligned with one another along the longitudinal axis.

6. The rail system of claim 1 , wherein the rails are slidably interconnected to one another by slide blocks that allow the rails to slide relative to one another.

7. 2. The rail system of claim 1, wherein the rail comprises a first and a second rail, the first rail comprising a first magnetic component of the first magnetic detent, and the second rail comprising a slide block slidably interconnecting the second rail to the first rail, the slide block comprising a second magnetic component of the first magnetic detent.

8. The rail system of claim 1 , wherein the first magnetic detent is configured to generate an audible indication when the carriage moves to the partially extended position.

9. The rail system of claim 1 , wherein the first magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the carriage moves to the partially extended position.

10. The rail system of claim 1 , wherein the second magnetic detent is configured to produce an audible indication when the carriage moves to the extended position.

11. The rail system of claim 1 , wherein the second magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the carriage moves to the extended position.

12. The rail system of claim 1 , wherein the rail comprises a rail set.

13. 1. A slide-out tray table for an aircraft, comprising: a carriage configured to hold a table leaf of the tray table; a telescoping rail system configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly along a longitudinal axis, the rail system operatively connected to the carriage such that the rail system guides movement of the carriage between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table, the rail system comprising: a first magnetic detent configured to releasably retain the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table; a second magnetic detent configured to releasably retain the carriage in the extended position of the tray table.

14. 14. The tray table of claim 13, wherein the rail system comprises first and second rails slidably interconnected with one another, the first and second rails comprising respective first and second magnetic components of the first magnetic detent.

15. 14. The tray table of claim 13, wherein the rail system comprises a rail slidably interconnected with the carriage, the rail and the carriage comprising respective third and fourth magnetic components of the second magnetic detent.

16. 14. The tray table of claim 13, wherein the first magnetic detent comprises first and second magnetic components of respective first and second rails of the rail system, the first and second magnetic components configured to releasably retain the carriage in the partially extended position of the tray table when the first and second magnetic components are at least partially aligned with one another along the longitudinal axis.

17. 14. The tray table of claim 13, wherein the second magnetic detent comprises third and fourth magnetic components on a rail of the rail system and on the carriage, respectively, the third and fourth magnetic components configured to releasably retain the carriage in an extended position of the tray table when the third and fourth magnetic components are at least partially aligned with one another along the longitudinal axis.

18. 14. The tray table of claim 13, wherein the rail system comprises rails slidably interconnected with each other and with the carriage via slide blocks that allow the rails to slide relative to each other and with respect to the carriage.

19. 14. The tray table of claim 13, wherein the rail system comprises first and second rails, the second rail comprising a slide block slidably interconnecting the second rail to the first rail, the slide block comprising a second magnetic component of the first magnetic detent.

20. 14. The tray table of claim 13, wherein the carriage comprises a slide block slidably interconnecting the carriage with the rail system, the slide block comprising a fourth magnetic component of the second magnetic detent.

21. The tray table of claim 13 , wherein the first magnetic detent is configured to produce an audible indication when the carriage moves to the partially extended position.

22. The tray table of claim 13 , wherein the first magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the carriage moves to the partially extended position.

23. The tray table of claim 13 , wherein the second magnetic detent is configured to produce an audible indication when the carriage moves to the extended position.

24. The tray table of claim 13 , wherein the second magnetic detent is configured to generate a tactile indication when the carriage moves to the extended position.

25. 14. The tray table of claim 13, wherein the rail system comprises rail sets slidably interconnected to one another such that the rail sets slide relative to one another along the longitudinal axis, thereby guiding movement of the carriage between the extended and retracted positions of the tray table.

26. 1. A method of configuring an aircraft tray table, comprising the steps of: operatively connecting the carriage of the tray table to a rail system of the tray table such that the rail system guides movement of the carriage between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table; providing first and second magnetic detents on the rail system such that the rail system is configured to releasably hold the carriage in a partially extended position of the tray table and in an extended position of the tray table, respectively.

27. 1. An interlock assembly for an aircraft tray table, comprising:

1. An interlock assembly comprising an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, the interlock configured to be held by the tray table so as to be biased to the locked position by gravity, the interlock comprising a magnetic component that cooperates with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table, a repulsive force between the magnetic components holding the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in its stowed position, and wherein the interlock is configured to be moved from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity as the table leaf moves from the stowed position of the table leaf towards its deployed position.

28. 28. The interlock assembly of claim 27, wherein the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage a stop on the tray table when the table leaf is in the extended position to limit movement of the tray table toward a retracted position of the tray table.

29. 28. The interlock assembly of claim 27, wherein the magnetic component of the interlock is configured such that the interlock is moved by gravity from the unlocked position to the locked position when the table leaf spreads from the stowed position of the table leaf towards the deployed position.

30. 28. The interlock assembly of claim 27, wherein the interlock comprises a lever configured to be held by the tray table such that the lever pivots between the locked and unlocked positions of the interlock.

31. 28. The interlock assembly of claim 27, wherein the interlock comprises a lever that pivots about a fulcrum between the locked and unlocked positions of the interlock, the lever extending from an actuation end that includes the magnetic component to a stop end configured to engage a stop on the tray table.

32. 28. The interlock assembly of claim 27, wherein the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage a stop on the tray table when the table leaf is in the extended position to limit movement of the tray table beyond the withdrawn position of the tray table.

33. 28. The interlock assembly of claim 27, wherein an end of the interlock rotates between the unlocked position and the locked position.

34. 1. A slide-out tray table for an aircraft, comprising: a telescoping base configured to extend outwardly and retract inwardly between an extended position and a retracted position of the tray table; a table leaf attached to the base such that the table leaf moves with the base between the extended and retracted positions of the tray table, the table leaf being selectively movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, the table leaf comprising a first magnetic component; An interlock assembly; the interlock assembly comprising:

1. A tray table comprising an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, the interlock being held by the base so as to be biased to the locked position by gravity, the interlock comprising a second magnetic component cooperating with the first magnetic component of the table leaf such that a repulsive force between the first and second magnetic components holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in the stowed position.

35. 35. The tray table of claim 34, wherein the interlock is configured such that gravity moves the interlock from the unlocked position to the locked position when the table leaf moves from the stowed position of the table leaf towards the deployed position.

36. 35. The tray table of claim 34, wherein the base of the tray table includes a stop, and the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage the stop to limit movement of the tray table toward the retracted position when the table leaf is in the extended position.

37. 35. The tray table of claim 34, wherein the first and second magnetic components are configured such that the interlock moves from the unlocked position to the locked position under the force of gravity when the table leaf spreads from the stowed position of the table leaf towards the deployed position.

38. 35. The tray table of claim 34, wherein the interlock comprises a lever carried by the tray table such that the lever pivots between the locked and unlocked positions of the interlock.

39. 35. The tray table of claim 34, wherein the base of the tray table comprises a stop and the interlock comprises a lever that pivots about a fulcrum between the locked and unlocked positions of the interlock, the lever extending from an actuation end comprising the magnetic component to a stop end configured to engage the stop.

40. 35. The tray table of claim 34, wherein the base of the tray table includes a stop and the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage the stop of the tray table to limit movement of the tray table beyond an exit position of the tray table when the table leaf is in the extended position.

41. 35. The tray table of claim 34, wherein the base comprises a rail and a stop arm extending outwardly from the rail toward the interlock, wherein when the interlock is in the locked position, the stop is configured to engage the interlock as the tray table is moved toward the retracted position.

42. 35. The tray table of claim 34, wherein the first magnetic component is embedded within the table leaf.

43. 35. The tray table of claim 34, wherein an end of the interlock rotates between the unlocked position and the locked position.

44. 1. A method of configuring a tray table for an aircraft, comprising the steps of: mounting the interlock to a base of the tray table such that the interlock is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position of the interlock, the interlock being biased to the locked position by gravity; and providing the interlock with a magnetic component configured to cooperate with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table such that a repulsive force between the magnetic components holds the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in a stowed position of the table leaf.

45. 45. The method of claim 44, wherein providing the interlock comprises configuring the magnetic component of the interlock such that the interlock is moved by gravity from the unlocked position to the locked position when the table leaf moves from the stowed position towards the deployed position of the table leaf.

46. 45. The method of claim 44, further comprising providing a stop on the base of the tray table such that when the table leaf is in its extended position, the locked position of the interlock is configured to engage a stop to limit movement of the tray table towards a retracted position of the tray table.

47. 1. An interlock assembly for an aircraft tray table, comprising:

1. An interlock assembly comprising an interlock movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, the interlock configured to be held by the tray table such that the interlock is biased to the locked position by gravity, the interlock comprising a magnetic component that cooperates with another magnetic component of a table leaf of the tray table, the magnetic component holding the interlock in the unlocked position when the table leaf is in its stowed position, the interlock configured such that the interlock is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position by gravity as the table leaf moves from the stowed position of the table leaf towards its deployed position.

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