Display fixture with tabletop

Abstract

We provide furniture with a tabletop that can accommodate both long hours of focused work and short periods of communication and meetings. [Solution] The furniture with a tabletop 1 of the embodiment comprises a tabletop 2 having an upward-facing work surface 2a, and a support structure placed on the floor surface and supporting the tabletop 2 from below. In a plan view, a first communication area CA1 is formed in the area enclosed by the respective extensions of the first work edge 21 and the third work edge 23, and the first communication edge 25, and includes a space 15 into which at least some of the people using the furniture with a tabletop 1 can enter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a furniture with a top board.

Background Art

[0002] In workspaces such as offices and public facilities, large furniture with a top board having a wide work surface and allowing multiple users to perform work tasks is known. Such furniture with a top board generally employs a rectangular top board that is rectangular in plan view (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the furniture with a top board disclosed in Patent Document 1, when another user sits in front, one's attention may be distracted, and it may be difficult to concentrate on work for a long time. Also, in the case of a general rectangular top board, for a worker using the top board, even if a passerby or a person who wants to consult wants to talk, they may protrude outside the top board and may get in the way of the surroundings, so it may be difficult to talk.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a furniture with a top board that can cope with long-term concentrated work and short-term communication or meetings.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] (1) A furniture with a top plate according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a top plate having an upward-facing work surface, and a support structure disposed on the floor surface and supporting the top plate from below, wherein the outer edge of the top plate has a first end located on one side in the left-right direction in a plan view, and a first work edge extending linearly from the first end toward the other side in the left-right direction, and a second end located on one side in the left-right direction relative to the first end, and a second work edge located on one side in the front-rear direction relative to the first work edge, and extending linearly from the second end toward the other side in the left-right direction, and The furniture comprises a third work edge extending from the second end to the other side in the front-rear direction, perpendicular to the second work edge, and a first communication edge connected to the other end of the third work edge in the front-rear direction at an obtuse angle to the third work edge, and connected to the first end at an obtuse angle to the first work edge. In the plan view, a first communication area is formed in the area enclosed by the extensions of the first work edge and the third work edge, as well as the first communication edge, and includes a space into which at least a portion of the person using the furniture with a top panel can enter. According to this embodiment, the work surface of the tabletop comprises a first work area extending along the first work edge on the other side in the front-to-back direction, and a second work area defined by the second and third work edges on one side in the front-to-back direction. A worker using the work surface can perform their work using either the first or second work area. Furthermore, because the first and second work areas are offset on one side in the left-to-right direction, it is difficult for a worker working in the first work area facing the first work edge and a worker working in the second work area facing the second work edge to face each other directly in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, it is possible to concentrate on individual work. Moreover, since one end of the second work area in the left-to-right direction is formed at a right angle by the second and third work edges, a wider work surface can be secured compared to the case of an acute angle. Furthermore, since a space (first communication area) is formed outside the first communication rim that people can enter, a consultant who approaches a worker who is working individually in the first or second work area can enter the first communication area. This allows the consultant in the first communication area to have a meeting with the worker while preventing them from encroaching on the area outside the tabletop and disturbing others. Therefore, it is easier for passersby to approach workers and encourage short, brief communication. Also, during a meeting, the worker can use either the first or second work area, and the consultant can use the work surface along the first communication rim. In this way, different work surfaces can be used, ensuring a wide work surface is available during meetings. In addition, since the first communication rim is connected to the first and third work rims at an obtuse angle in plan view, a consultant in the first communication area can easily face the same direction as a worker working in the first or second work area, allowing them to discuss while looking at documents or screens together. Therefore, we can provide furniture with a tabletop that can accommodate both long periods of focused work and short periods of communication and meetings.

[0007] (2) In the embodiment of (1) above, the first communication edge may extend to a length shorter than the left-right dimension of each of the first and second work edges in the plan view. According to this embodiment, the first communication veranda, which does not have a larger work surface area compared to the first and second work areas, can discourage users who wish to work for extended periods from sitting there, thus encouraging it to remain vacant. As a result, it becomes easier for passersby or people seeking consultation to approach workers in the first or second work area from the vacant first communication veranda, encouraging short conversations and meetings.

[0008] (3) In the embodiment of (1) or (2) above, each of the first and second work edges may have dimensions that allow multiple workers to work side by side in the plan view. According to this embodiment, the first and second work verandas can be used by multiple people, making them convenient to use.

[0009] (4) In any embodiment of (1) to (3) above, the first communication edge may include a curved shape that bulges outward from the top plate in the plan view. According to this embodiment, compared to the case where the first communication edge curves inward from the top surface in a plan view, the distance between the first communication edge and people passing by is reduced, making it easier for passersby to approach the first communication area. Furthermore, compared to the case where the first communication edge forms a straight line connecting the first and third work edges in a plan view, the work surface on the first communication edge side is narrower, which discourages users who want to work for extended periods from sitting on the first communication edge, encouraging it to remain empty. As a result, it becomes easier for passersby and people seeking consultation to approach workers working in the first or second work area from the empty first communication edge, encouraging short conversations and meetings.

[0010] (5) In any embodiment of (1) to (4) above, the support structure includes a first partition member that horizontally partitions the space below the top plate near the first communication edge, the first partition member including a first communication-side partition portion formed in a shape along the first communication edge in a plan view and a first work-side partition portion formed in a shape along the first work edge, the shortest distance from the first communication edge to the first communication-side partition portion in a plan view may be shorter than the distance in the front-to-back direction from the second work edge to the first work-side partition portion. According to this embodiment, the first partition member makes the lower limb space of a person on the first communication veranda narrower than the lower limb space of a person on the second work veranda, thus more effectively preventing a person who wants to work for a long time from facing the first communication veranda.

[0011] (6) In any embodiment of (1) to (5) above, the third end located on the other side in the left-right direction of the first work edge is located on the other side in the left-right direction relative to the fourth end located on the other side in the left-right direction of the second work edge, and the outer edge of the top plate comprises, in plan view, a fourth work edge extending from the third end to one side in the front-rear direction perpendicular to the first work edge, and a second communication edge connected to one end of the fourth work edge in the front-rear direction at an obtuse angle with the fourth work edge, and connected to the fourth end at an obtuse angle with the second work edge, and in plan view, a second communication area may be formed in the area enclosed by the extensions of the second work edge and the fourth work edge and the second communication edge, including a space into which at least a portion of the person using the top plate furniture can enter. According to this embodiment, both the left and right sides of the tabletop-equipped furniture can accommodate prolonged periods of focused work, as well as short periods of communication and meetings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a furniture with a tabletop that can accommodate long periods of focused work as well as short periods of communication and meetings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] A perspective view of the fixture with a tabletop according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Top view of the fixture with a tabletop according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] A bottom view of the fixture with a top plate according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of the dimensions of a fixture with a tabletop according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] A top view of a fixture with a top plate, representing a first modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 6] A top view of a fixture with a top plate, representing a second modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 7] A top view of a fixture with a top plate, representing a third modified example of the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, expressions indicating relative or absolute arrangements such as "parallel," "orthogonal," "center," and "coaxial" do not only mean such arrangements strictly, but also include states in which the elements are relatively displaced by tolerances or angles and distances that allow the same function to be achieved. In the drawings used in the following description, the scale of each element may be changed to make each element recognizable.

[0015] <Display fixture with tabletop> Figure 1 is a perspective view of the overhead display unit 1 of the embodiment. Figure 2 is a top view of the overhead display unit 1 of the embodiment. Figure 3 is a bottom view of the overhead display unit 1 of the embodiment. Figure 4 shows an example of the dimensions of the overhead display unit 1 of the embodiment. Referring to Figures 1 to 4, the furniture unit with a tabletop 1 is placed on the floor surface F. For example, the furniture unit with a tabletop 1 is installed in offices, public facilities, etc. However, the installation location of the furniture unit with a tabletop 1 is not limited to the above and can be changed as appropriate.

[0016] In the following description, an XYZ coordinate system is shown as a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system in each figure as appropriate. In the XYZ coordinate system, the Z-axis direction is the vertical direction. The vertical direction is the direction perpendicular to the floor surface F on which the ceiling fixture 1 is placed (corresponding to the up-and-down direction). The +Z side is the upper side, and may be simply referred to as "upper" hereinafter. The -Z side is the lower side, and may be simply referred to as "lower" hereinafter. The X-axis direction is a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and is the left-right direction of the ceiling fixture 1, and may be referred to as the "width direction" hereinafter. The +X side is the right side of the ceiling fixture 1, and may be simply referred to as "right side" hereinafter. The -X side is the left side of the ceiling fixture 1, and may be simply referred to as "left side" hereinafter. The Y-axis direction is a direction orthogonal to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction and is the front-back direction of the ceiling fixture 1. The +Y side is the rear side of the ceiling fixture 1, and may be simply referred to as "rear side" hereinafter. The -Y side is the front side of the ceiling fixture 1, and may be simply referred to as "front side" hereinafter. Note that upper, lower, front side, rear side, left side, and right side are merely names for explaining the relative positional relationship of each part, and the actual arrangement relationship, etc. may be an arrangement relationship, etc. other than the arrangement relationship indicated by these names.

[0017] The ceiling fixture 1 is, for example, a desk. The ceiling fixture 1 includes a ceiling board 2 having a work surface 2a facing upward, and a support structure 3 disposed on the floor surface and supporting the ceiling board 2 from below.

[0018] <Ceiling board> The ceiling board 2 is formed in a plate shape along the XY plane. The ceiling board 2 is connected to the upper part of the support structure 3, for example, by bolts or the like.

[0019] For example, the front-back dimension Ly of the ceiling board 2 may be set in the range of 800 mm or more and 1200 mm or less. For example, the left-right dimension Lx of the ceiling board 2 may be set in the range of 2400 mm or more and 3600 mm or less. Note that the front-back dimension Ly and the left-right dimension Lx of the ceiling board 2 are not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0020] The outer edge 2e of the tabletop includes a first work edge 21, a second work edge 22, a third work edge 23, a fourth work edge 24, a first communication edge 25, and a second communication edge 26.

[0021] Each of the first and second work edges 21 has dimensions that allow multiple workers to work side by side when viewed from above. The first and second work edges 21 and 22 are spaced apart from each other in the front-to-back direction when viewed from above. The first and second work edges 21 and 22 extend in a straight line parallel to each other in the left-to-right direction when viewed from above. The straight line includes not only straight lines but also shapes in which curves or irregularities are formed in part of the straight line. The distance between the first and second work edges 21 and 22 in the front-to-back direction corresponds to the front-to-back dimension Ly of the tabletop 2.

[0022] The first work edge 21 has a first end E1 located on one side (-X side) in the left-right direction when viewed from above. The first work edge 21 extends linearly from the first end E1 to the other side (+X side) in the left-right direction when viewed from above.

[0023] The second work edge 22 has a second end E2 located on one side (-X side) in the left-right direction relative to the first end E1 in a plan view. The second work edge 22 is located on one side (+Y side) in the front-back direction relative to the first work edge 21. In a plan view, the second work edge 22 extends linearly from the second end E2 to the other side (+X side) in the left-right direction.

[0024] The third end E3, located on the other side (+X side) in the left-right direction of the first work edge 21, is located on the other side (+X side) in the left-right direction of the fourth end E4, located on the other side (+X side) in the left-right direction of the second work edge 22.

[0025] In the example shown in the diagram, each of the workspaces 21 and 22 is sized to accommodate three workers of the same build standing side-by-side. However, the number of workers who can use each workspace 21 and 22 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0026] In the example shown in the figure, each of the office edges 21 and 22 is positioned with a left-right offset between their respective ends in a plan view. In the example shown in the figure, the lengths (left-right dimensions) of each of the office edges 21 and 22 are the same, and their respective ends are offset by the same amount in the left-right direction.

[0027] In the example shown in the diagram, when three workers of the same build use the workspaces 21 and 22 side by side, the workspaces 21 and 22 are positioned such that the worker using one workspace 21(22) does not directly face the worker using the other workspace 22(21). In the example shown in the diagram, when viewed from the front or back, the head of the worker using one workspace 21(22) does not overlap with the head of the worker using the other workspace 22(21).

[0028] Each of the third and fourth work edges 23 and 24 has dimensions that allow at least one worker to use it in a plan view. The third and fourth work edges 23 and 24 are spaced apart from each other in a plan view. The third and fourth work edges 23 and 24 extend linearly in the front-to-back direction parallel to each other in a plan view. The distance between the third and fourth work edges 23 and 24 in the left-to-right direction corresponds to the left-to-right dimension Lx of the tabletop 2.

[0029] In a plan view, the third work edge 23 extends from the second end E2 to the other side (-Y side) in the front-to-back direction, perpendicular to the second work edge 22. In a plan view, the third work edge 23 extends linearly in the front-to-back direction with a dimension shorter than the left-to-right dimension of the first work edge 21 and the second work edge 22, respectively.

[0030] In a plan view, the fourth work edge 24 extends from the third end E3 in one direction (+Y side) in the front-to-back direction, perpendicular to the first work edge 21. In a plan view, the fourth work edge 24 extends linearly in the front-to-back direction with a dimension shorter than the left-to-right dimension of the first work edge 21 and the second work edge 22, respectively.

[0031] In the example shown in the figure, each of the office edges 23 and 24 is positioned such that, in a plan view, their respective ends are offset from each other in the front-to-back direction. In the example shown in the figure, the lengths (front-to-back dimensions) of each of the office edges 23 and 24 are the same, and their respective ends are offset from each other by the same amount in the front-to-back direction.

[0032] The first communication edge 25 is connected to the other end (-Y side end) of the third work edge 23 in the front-rear direction, forming an obtuse angle with the third work edge 23 in a plan view, and is also connected to the first end E1, forming an obtuse angle with the first work edge 21. In a plan view, the first communication edge 25 extends to a length shorter than the left-right dimensions of the first work edge 21 and the second work edge 22, respectively.

[0033] The first communication edge 25 includes a curved shape that bulges outward from the top plate 2 in a plan view. In the example shown in the figure, the first communication edge 25 connects to the -X side end of the first work edge 21 and the -Y side end of the third work edge 23 in a plan view, and curves in an arc outward (towards both the -X and -Y sides).

[0034] In the example shown in the figure, in a plan view, the tangent line at one end (+X end and -Y end) of the first communication edge 25 intersects the extension of the first work edge 21 at an obtuse angle, and the tangent line at the other end (-X end and +Y end) of the first communication edge 25 intersects the extension of the third work edge 23 at an obtuse angle.

[0035] For example, the length (arc length) of the first communication edge 25 may be set within the range of 800 mm to 1000 mm. However, the length of the first communication edge 25 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0036] In a plan view, the second communication edge 26 is connected to one end of the fourth work edge 24 in the front-rear direction (+Y side end) so as to form an obtuse angle with the fourth work edge 24, and is also connected to the fourth end E4 so as to form an obtuse angle with the second work edge 22. In a plan view, the second communication edge 26 extends to a length shorter than the left-right dimensions of the first work edge 21 and the second work edge 22, respectively.

[0037] The second communication edge 26 includes a curved shape that bulges outward from the top plate 2 in a plan view. In the example shown in the figure, the second communication edge 26 connects to the +X side end of the second work edge 22 and the +Y side end of the fourth work edge 24 in a plan view, and curves in an arc outward (towards both the +X and +Y sides).

[0038] In the example shown in the figure, in a plan view, the tangent line at one end (-X end and +Y end) of the second communication edge 26 intersects the extension of the second work edge 22 at an obtuse angle, and the tangent line at the other end (+X end and -Y end) of the second communication edge 26 intersects the extension of the fourth work edge 24 at an obtuse angle.

[0039] For example, the length (arc length) of the second communication edge 26 may be set in the range of 800 mm to 1000 mm. In the example shown in the figure, the length of the second communication edge 26 is the same as the length of the first communication edge 25. Note that the length of the second communication edge 26 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0040] The work surface 2a includes a first work area WA1 that extends along the first work edge 21 on the other side in the front-rear direction (-Y side), and a second work area WA2 that is defined by the second work edge 22 and the third work edge 23 on one side in the front-rear direction (+Y side).

[0041] The first work area WA1 is the area on the work surface 2a where the worker on the first work edge 21 side works, and is an area where the worker can work together with the person on the fourth work edge 24 side if necessary. In the example shown in the figure, the first work area WA1 extends across the entire first work edge 21 in the left-right direction in a plan view, and is formed in a rectangular shape (a rectangle that is long in the left-right direction) defined by the first work edge 21 and the fourth work edge 24 on the +X side.

[0042] The second work area WA2 is the area on the work surface 2a where the worker on the second work edge 22 side works, and is an area where they can work together with the person on the third work edge 23 side if necessary. In the example shown in the figure, the second work area WA2 extends across the entire second work edge 22 in the left-right direction in a plan view, and is formed in a rectangular shape (a rectangle that is long in the left-right direction) defined by the second work edge 22 and the third work edge 23 on the -X side.

[0043] In a plan view, a first communication area CA1 is formed in the area enclosed by the extensions of the first work edge 21 and the third work edge 23, as well as the first communication edge 25, and includes a space 15 into which at least some of the people using the tabletop furniture 1 can enter. People using the tabletop furniture 1 include workers using the work area and people other than the workers. People other than the workers include, for example, people who have business with workers working in the first work area WA1 (-X side) or the second work area WA2 (-X side), or passersby.

[0044] "At least a part of a person" includes not only the whole or part of one person, but also the whole or part of multiple people. For example, the entire torsos of multiple people may be able to enter space 15, or only a part of the torso of one person may be able to enter. The planar size of space 15 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0045] In a plan view, a second communication area CA2 is formed in the area enclosed by the extensions of the second work edge 22 and the fourth work edge 24, as well as the second communication edge 26, and includes a space 16 into which at least some of the people using the tabletop furniture 1 can enter. People using the tabletop furniture 1 include workers using the work area and people other than the workers. People other than the workers include, for example, people who have business with workers working in the first work area WA1 (+X side) or the second work area WA2 (+X side), or passersby.

[0046] <Support structure> The support structure 3 is installed on the floor surface F. Since the support structure 3 supports loads such as the top plate 2, it only needs to be made of a material with high strength and rigidity. The material used to form the support structure 3 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0047] The support structure 3 includes a first partition member 31 that horizontally partitions the space 10 below the tabletop 2 near the first communication edge 25, and a second partition member 32 that horizontally partitions the space 10 below the tabletop 2 near the second communication edge 26. The partition members 31 and 32 may function as support legs to support the load of the tabletop 2, for example, or they may be composed of support legs plus a skirting board or the like. The lower ends of the support legs may be provided with contact members (for example, adjusters or casters) that come into contact with the floor surface F.

[0048] The first partition member 31 includes, in plan view, a first communication-side partition portion 33 formed in a shape that follows the first communication edge 25, and a first work-side partition portion 34 formed in a shape that follows the first work edge 21. In plan view, a lower limb space is formed between the second work edge 22 and the first work-side partition portion 34, capable of accommodating the lower limbs of an office worker working on the second work edge 22 side.

[0049] In a plan view, the shortest dimension S1 from the first communication edge 25 to the first communication side partition portion 33 is shorter than the front-rear dimension S2 from the second work edge 22 to the first work side partition portion 34 (S1 < S2). Note that the dimension S1 corresponds to the minimum distance between the first communication edge 25 and the outer edge of the first communication side partition portion 33. The dimension S2 corresponds to the front-rear dimension between the second work edge 22 and the +Y side edge of the first work side partition portion 34.

[0050] The second partition member 32 includes, in a plan view, a second communication side partition portion 35 formed in a shape along the second communication edge 26 and a second work side partition portion 形成36 formed in a shape along the second work edge 22. In a plan view, a lower limb space capable of accommodating the lower limbs of an operator working on the first work edge 21 side is formed between the first work edge 21 and the second work side partition portion 36.

[0051] In a plan view, the shortest dimension S3 from the second communication edge 26 to the second communication side partition portion 35 is shorter than the front-rear dimension S4 from the second work edge 22 to the second work side partition portion 36 (S3 < S4). Note that the dimension S3 corresponds to the minimum distance between the second communication edge 26 and the outer edge of the second communication side partition portion 35. The dimension S4 corresponds to the front-rear dimension between the first work edge 21 and the -Y side edge of the second work side partition portion 36.

[0052] In the example of the figure, each of the partition members 31 and 32 is formed in a panel shape having a predetermined thickness and partially curved in a plan view. Note that the plan view shape of each of the partition members 31 and 32 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0053] The partition members 31 and 32 are entirely shifted in the left-right direction. In a plan view, the partition members 31 and 32 are spaced apart from each other in the front-rear direction to partition the lower space 10 of the top plate 2 in the front-rear direction, and their left-right positional relationships are different from each other.

[0054] In a plan view, the combined shape of the first communication-side partition 33 and the first work-side partition 34, and the combined shape of the second communication-side partition 35 and the second work-side partition 36, are both J-shaped. In the example shown in the figure, the pair of partition members 31 and 32 are oriented opposite to each other in the left-right direction and are formed to be the same shape as each other. In a plan view, the pair of J-shaped partition members 31 and 32 are arranged in a point-symmetrical bracket-like configuration.

[0055] In a plan view, a space 11 is formed between the pair of partition members 31 and 32 in the left-right direction, which does not partition the space 10 below the top plate 2 in the front-rear direction. That is, a space 11 that communicates in the front-rear direction is formed between the pair of partition members 31 and 32 in the left-right direction. In the example shown in the figure, the space 11 communicates in the front-rear direction across the left-right direction between the +X side end of the first work-side partition 34 and the -X side end of the second work-side partition 36.

[0056] <Effects and Effects> As described above, the tabletop-equipped furniture 1 of the above embodiment comprises a tabletop 2 having an upward-facing work surface 2a, and a support structure 3 that is placed on the floor surface F and supports the tabletop 2 from below. The outer edge 2e of the top plate has, in a plan view, a first work edge 21 that has a first end E1 located on one side in the left-right direction and extends linearly from the first end E1 to the other side in the left-right direction; a second work edge 22 that has a second end E2 located on one side in the left-right direction relative to the first work edge 21 and is located on one side in the front-rear direction relative to the first work edge 21 and extends linearly from the second end E2 to the other side in the left-right direction; a third work edge 23 that extends from the second end E2 to the other side in the front-rear direction perpendicular to the second work edge 22; and a first communication edge 25 that is connected to the other end of the third work edge 23 in the front-rear direction at an obtuse angle with the third work edge 23 and connected to the first end E1 at an obtuse angle with the first work edge 21. In a plan view, a first communication area CA1 is formed in the area enclosed by the extensions of the first work edge 21 and the third work edge 23, as well as the first communication edge 25, and includes a space 15 into which at least some of the people using the tabletop furniture 1 can enter. In this configuration, the work surface 2a of the tabletop 2 includes a first work area WA1 that extends along the first work edge 21 on the other side in the front-to-back direction, and a second work area WA2 defined by the second work edge 22 and the third work edge 23 on one side in the front-to-back direction. As a result, an employee working on the work surface 2a can use either the first work area WA1 or the second work area WA2. Furthermore, because the first work area WA1 and the second work area WA2 are offset on one side in the left-to-right direction, it is difficult for an employee working in the first work area WA1 facing the first work edge 21, and an employee working in the second work area WA2 facing the second work edge 22, to face each other directly in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, it is possible to concentrate on individual work. Furthermore, since one side of the second work area WA2 is formed at a right angle by the second work edge 22 and the third work edge 23, a wider work surface can be secured compared to the case of an acute angle. In addition, a space 15 (first communication area CA1) that a person can enter is formed outside the first communication edge 25, so for example, a consultant who approaches a worker who is working individually in the first work area WA1 or the second work area WA2 can enter the first communication area CA1. This allows the consultant in the first communication area CA1 to have a meeting with the worker while preventing them from encroaching on the area outside the tabletop 2 and disturbing others. Therefore, it is easier for a passing consultant to approach the worker and encourage short communication. Also, during a meeting, the worker can use either the first work area WA1 or the second work area WA2, and the consultant can use the work surface along the first communication edge 25. In this way, different work surfaces can be used, ensuring a wide work surface when having a meeting. Furthermore, since the first communication edge 25 is connected to the first work edge 21 and the third work edge 23 at an obtuse angle in a plan view, a consultant in the first communication area CA1 can easily face the same location as a worker in the first work area WA1 or the second work area WA2, allowing them to discuss while looking at documents, screens, etc. together.Therefore, we can provide a tabletop-equipped furniture unit 1 that can accommodate long periods of focused work as well as short periods of communication and meetings.

[0057] In the above embodiment, the first communication edge 25 extends to a length shorter than the left-right dimension of the first work edge 21 and the second work edge 22 in a plan view. This configuration makes it possible to discourage users who wish to work for extended periods from sitting on the first communication edge 25 side, which does not offer a wider workspace compared to the first work area WA1 and the second work area WA2, thus encouraging it to remain empty. Specifically, it encourages the side (one side in the left-right direction) of a worker working in the first work area WA1, and the front (the other side in the front-back direction) of a worker working on the second work edge 22 side of the second work area WA2, to remain empty. As a result, it becomes easier for passersby or people who wish to have a meeting to approach a worker working in the first work area WA1 or the second work area WA2 from the empty first communication edge 25 side, encouraging short communication or meetings.

[0058] In the above embodiment, each of the first work area 21 and the second work area 22 has dimensions that allow multiple workers to work side by side when viewed from above. This configuration allows multiple people to use both the first work area 21 and the second work area 22, making it very convenient to use.

[0059] In the above embodiment, the first communication edge 25 includes a curved shape that bulges outward from the top plate 2 in a plan view. With this configuration, compared to the case where the first communication edge 25 curves inward towards the top surface in a plan view, the distance between the first communication edge 25 and people passing by is shorter, making it easier for passersby to approach the first communication area CA1. Also, compared to the case where the first communication edge 25 forms a straight line connecting the first work edge 21 and the third work edge 23 in a plan view, the work surface on the first communication edge 25 side is narrower, which discourages users who want to work for extended periods from sitting on the first communication edge 25 side, encouraging it to remain empty. As a result, for workers working in the first work area WA1 or the second work area WA2, passersby and people seeking consultation can easily approach them from the empty first communication edge 25 side, encouraging short communication and meetings.

[0060] In the above embodiment, the support structure 3 includes a first partition member 31 that horizontally partitions the space 10 below the top plate 2 near the first communication edge 25. The first partition member 31 includes a first communication-side partition portion 33 formed in a shape that follows the first communication edge 25 in a plan view, and a first work-side partition portion 34 formed in a shape that follows the first work edge 21. In a plan view, the shortest distance S1 from the first communication edge 25 to the first communication-side partition portion 33 is shorter than the front-to-back distance S2 from the second work edge 22 to the first work-side partition portion 34 (S1 <S2)。 According to this embodiment, the first partition member 31 makes the lower limb space of a person on the first communication edge 25 side narrower than the lower limb space of a person on the second work edge 22 side, thus more effectively preventing a person who wants to perform work for a long time from facing the first communication edge 25 while working.

[0061] In the above embodiment, the third end E3 located on the other side in the left-right direction of the first work edge 21 is located on the other side in the left-right direction of the fourth end E4 located on the other side in the left-right direction of the second work edge 22. The outer peripheral edge 2e of the tabletop includes, in plan view, a fourth work edge 24 extending from the third end E3 to one side in the front-rear direction perpendicular to the first work edge 21, and a second communication edge 26 connected to one end of the fourth work edge 24 in the front-rear direction at an obtuse angle with the fourth work edge 24, and connected to the fourth end E4 at an obtuse angle with the second work edge 22. In plan view, a second communication area CA2 is formed in the area enclosed by the respective extensions of the second work edge 22 and the fourth work edge 24, as well as the second communication edge 26, and includes a space 16 into which at least some of the people using the tabletop furniture 1 can enter. This configuration allows for both prolonged periods of focused work and short periods of communication or meetings on both the left and right sides of the tabletop-equipped furniture.

[0062] <Variation> In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the first communication edge extends to a length shorter than the left-right dimension of the first and second work edges in a plan view, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the first communication edge may extend to a length longer than the left-right dimension of the first and second work edges in a plan view. Similarly, the second communication edge may extend to a length longer than the left-right dimension of the first and second work edges in a plan view. The dimensional relationship between each communication edge and each work edge can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0063] In the above embodiment, an example was given in which each of the first and second work verandas has dimensions that allow multiple workers to sit side by side in a plan view, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, at least one of the first and second work verandas may have dimensions that allow one worker to sit side by side in a plan view. The relationship between the number of workers and the dimensions of each work veranda can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0064] In the above embodiment, the first communication edge was described as having a curved shape that bulges outward from the top plate in a plan view, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first communication edge may be curved inward from the top plate in a plan view. Also, the second communication edge may be curved inward from the top plate in a plan view. For example, the first communication edge may have a straight shape in a plan view. Also, the second communication edge may have a straight shape in a plan view. As shown in Figure 5, the outer edge of the top plate comprises a first work edge 121, a second work edge 122, a third work edge 123, a fourth work edge 124, a first communication edge 125, and a second communication edge 126, and the first communication edge 125 and the second communication edge 126 may have a straight shape parallel to each other in a plan view. The plan view shape of each communication edge can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0065] In the above embodiment, the support structure includes a first partition member that horizontally partitions the space below the top plate near the first communication edge, and the first partition member includes a first communication-side partition portion formed in a shape along the first communication edge and a first work-side partition portion formed in a shape along the first work edge in a plan view, and in the example described, the shortest dimension from the first communication edge to the first communication-side partition portion in a plan view is shorter than the front-to-back dimension from the second work edge to the first work-side partition portion, but it is not limited to this. For example, in a plan view, the shortest dimension from the first communication edge to the first communication-side partition portion may be longer than the front-to-back dimension from the second work edge to the first work-side partition portion. The dimensional relationship between the first communication edge to the first communication-side partition portion and the second work edge to the first work-side partition portion can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0066] In the above embodiment, the third end located on the other side in the left-right direction of the first work edge is located on the other side in the left-right direction of the fourth end located on the other side in the left-right direction of the second work edge, and the outer edge of the top plate comprises, in plan view, a fourth work edge extending from the third end to one side in the front-rear direction perpendicular to the first work edge, and a second communication edge connected to one end of the fourth work edge in the front-rear direction at an obtuse angle with the fourth work edge, and connected to the fourth end at an obtuse angle with the second work edge, and in plan view, a second communication area is formed in the area enclosed by the extensions of the second work edge and the fourth work edge, as well as the second communication edge, and the space into which at least some of the people using the top plate furniture can enter. However, the embodiment is not limited to this example. For example, the third end located on the other side in the left-right direction of the first work edge is in the same left-right position as the fourth end located on the other side in the left-right direction of the second work edge, and the outer edge of the tabletop may have a fourth work edge that connects to the third end and the fourth end in a state perpendicular to the first and second work edges in a plan view. For example, the communication area may be formed on only one side in the left-right direction. As shown in Figure 6, the outer edge of the tabletop has a first work edge 221, a second work edge 222, a third work edge 223, and a first communication edge 225, and the first communication edge 225 is formed only on the -X side and may be curved in an arc outwards (towards the -X and -Y sides) in a plan view, connecting to the -X side end of the first work edge 221 and the -Y side end of the third work edge 223. As shown in Figure 7, the outer edge of the tabletop comprises a first work edge 321, a second work edge 322, a third work edge 323, and a first communication edge 325. The first communication edge 325 is formed only on the -X side and may have a straight shape in plan view, connecting the -X side end of the first work edge 321 and the -Y side end of the third work edge 323. The arrangement of each communication edge can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0067] In the above embodiment, the fixture with a top was described using the example of a desk, but it is not limited to this. For example, the fixture with a top may be a table, counter, shelf, etc. The form of the fixture with a top can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0068] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto, and additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications of the configuration are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention, and the above-described modifications can be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0069] 1… Display unit with tabletop 2… Tabletop 2a…Work surface 2e...outer edge 3...Support structure 15, 16… Spaces into which at least a portion of a person can enter 21…First Office Connection 22...Second Office Connection 23...Third Office Connection 24…Fourth Office Connection 25…First Communication Connection 26…Second Communication Connection 31...First partition member 33...First communication side partition 34…First Office Side Partition E1...first end E2…Second end E3...Third end E4...Fourth end F…Floor surface S1... The shortest distance from the first communication edge to the first communication side partition. S2... Dimension in the front-to-back direction from the first workspace edge to the partition on the first workspace side.

Claims

1. A tabletop with an upward-facing work surface, It comprises a support structure placed on the floor surface and supporting the top plate from below, The outer edge of the aforementioned top plate, in plan view, Having a first end located on one side in the left-right direction, and a first work edge extending linearly from the first end toward the other side in the left-right direction, A second work edge has a second end located on one side in the left-right direction relative to the first end, and is located on one side in the front-rear direction relative to the first work edge, and extends linearly from the second end toward the other side in the left-right direction, A third work edge extending from the second end to the other side in the front-rear direction, perpendicular to the second work edge, It comprises a first communication edge connected to the other end of the third work edge in the front-rear direction so as to form an obtuse angle with the third work edge, and connected to the first end so as to form an obtuse angle with the first work edge, In the aforementioned plan view, a first communication area is formed in the area enclosed by the extensions of the first work edge and the third work edge, as well as the first communication edge, and includes a space into which at least a portion of the person using the tabletop furniture can enter. Display unit with a tabletop.

2. The first communication edge extends, in the plan view, to a length shorter than the left-right dimension of each of the first and second work edges. The fixture with a tabletop as described in claim 1.

3. Each of the first and second work areas has dimensions that allow multiple workers to work side by side in the plan view. A fixture with a tabletop according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first communication edge includes a curved shape that bulges outward toward the outside of the top plate in the plan view. A fixture with a tabletop according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The support structure includes a first partition member that horizontally partitions the space below the top plate near the first communication edge, The first partition member includes, in plan view, a first communication-side partition portion formed in a shape that follows the first communication edge, and a first work-side partition portion formed in a shape that follows the first work edge. In the aforementioned plan view, the shortest distance from the first communication edge to the first communication side partition is shorter than the distance in the front-to-back direction from the second work edge to the first work side partition. A fixture with a tabletop according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The third end located on the other side in the left-right direction of the first work edge is located on the other side in the left-right direction relative to the fourth end located on the other side in the left-right direction of the second work edge, The outer edge of the top plate, in the plan view, A fourth work edge extending from the third end to one side in the front-rear direction, perpendicular to the first work edge, The device comprises a second communication edge connected to one end of the fourth work edge in the front-rear direction so as to form an obtuse angle with the fourth work edge, and connected to the fourth end so as to form an obtuse angle with the second work edge, In the aforementioned plan view, a second communication area is formed in the portion enclosed by the extensions of the second and fourth work edges and the second communication edge, including a space into which at least a portion of the person using the tabletop furniture can enter. A fixture with a tabletop according to claim 1 or 2.

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