Foldable rack

Abstract

We provide a foldable rack that prevents excessive folding of the shelves. [Solution] The folding rack comprises a plurality of wheels, a main body supported by the plurality of wheels, a first shelf supported by the main body, and an over-folding prevention member that prevents the first shelf from being folded excessively. The state of the first shelf can be changed from an unfolded state to a first folded state. After the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member is disabled, the state of the first shelf can be changed from a first folded state to a second folded state. The second folded state is a state in which the first shelf is folded further compared to the first folded state. When the state of the first shelf is the first folded state, the posture of the main body can be maintained in a self-standing posture.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a folding rack.

Background Art

[0002] Foldable racks are known.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a folding rack with a positioning control device. In the folding rack described in Patent Document 1, by pulling up the slide frame, the two support frames and the shelf member approach each other and are folded together.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the folding rack described in Patent Document 1, no member is provided to prevent excessive folding of the shelf member. If the shelf member is excessively folded, the folding rack may fall over.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a folding rack in which excessive folding of the shelf is prevented.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] Hereinafter, the means for solving the problems will be described using the numbers and symbols used in the embodiments for implementing the invention. These numbers and symbols are added in parentheses for reference to show an example of the correspondence relationship between the description of the claims and the embodiments for implementing the invention. Therefore, the claims should not be construed in a limiting manner by the description in parentheses.

[0008] In some embodiments, the folding rack comprises a plurality of wheels (2), a main body (3) supported by the plurality of wheels (2), a first shelf (41) supported by the main body (3), and an over-folding prevention member (50) that prevents the first shelf (41) from being folded excessively. The state of the first shelf (41) can be changed from an unfolded state (S0) to a first folded state (S1). After the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member (50) is deactivated, the state of the first shelf (41) can be changed from the first folded state (S1) to a second folded state (S2). The second folded state (S2) is a state in which the first shelf (41) is folded further compared to the first folded state (S1). When the first shelf (41) is in the first folded state (S1), the main body (3) can be maintained in a self-supporting upright position.

[0009] The above-mentioned folding rack may also include a first operating part (53) that disables the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member (50).

[0010] The folding rack described above may include a locking member (60) that prevents the first shelf (41) from returning from the first folded state (S1) to the unfolded state (S0). The folding rack may also include a second operating part (63) that releases the lock by the locking member (60) so that the first shelf (41) can return from the first folded state (S1) to the unfolded state (S0).

[0011] In the above-described folding rack, the second operating section (63) may be a button (63B). Furthermore, the release of the lock and at least a part of the transition from the first folded state (S1) to the unfolded state (S0) may be performed by pressing the button (63B).

[0012] In the above-described folding rack, the lock may be released and the state may be changed from the first folded state (S1) to the unfolded state (S0) by a single action of pressing the button (63B) downward.

[0013] In the above-described folding rack, the direction in which the operating force is applied to disable the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member (50) may be in the opposite direction to the direction in which the operating force is applied to change the state of the first shelf (41) from the first folded state (S1) to the second folded state (S2).

[0014] The above-described folding rack may include an operating part (11) for pulling up a portion of the first shelf (41). Furthermore, the state of the first shelf (41) may be changed from the unfolded state (S0) to the first folded state (S1) by pressing the second operating part (63) and pulling up the operating part (11).

[0015] In the above-described folding rack, the first shelf (41) may be positioned between the first operating section (53) and the second operating section (63) in a plan view.

[0016] In the above-described folding rack, the primary color of the outer surface of the first operating section (53) is the first color, and the primary color of the outer surface of the second operating section (63) may be a second color different from the first color.

[0017] The above-described folding rack may include a first lateral operating part (11a) for lifting a portion of the first shelf (41) upward. In the above-described folding rack, the first lateral operating part (11a) may be attached to the slide frame (33a) of the main body (3) so as to be rotatable around the first axis (AN1). In the default state, most of the first lateral operating part (11a) may hang down below the first axis (AN1). Furthermore, by pulling the first lateral operating part (11a) upward, most of the first lateral operating part (11a) may be lifted above the first axis (AN1).

[0018] In the above-described folding rack, the plurality of wheels (2) may include a first wheel (2a) and a second wheel (2b). Furthermore, when the distance between the center of the first wheel (2a) and the center of the second wheel (2b) when the first shelf (41) is in the unfolded state (S0) is defined as distance L0, when the distance between the center of the first wheel (2a) and the center of the second wheel (2b) when the first shelf (41) is in the first folded state (S1) is defined as distance L1, and when the distance between the center of the first wheel (2a) and the center of the second wheel (2b) when the first shelf (41) is in the second folded state (S2) is defined as distance L2, distance L1 may be smaller than distance L0. Also, distance L2 may be smaller than distance L1. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] The present invention provides a foldable rack that prevents excessive folding of the shelves. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0020] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a foldable rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the foldable rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 3]FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic side view schematically showing a state where the folding rack can be changed between an unfolded state, a first folded state, and a second folded state. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic side view schematically showing a state where the folding rack can be changed between an unfolded state, a first folded state, and a second folded state. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the first operating force transmission mechanism. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a part of the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing a part of the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the first unit. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view schematically showing the folding rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a foldable rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second operating force transmission mechanism. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view showing a portion of the foldable rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a schematic perspective view showing a portion of the foldable rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the second unit. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a schematic plan view illustrating the foldable rack in the first embodiment. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a schematic three-view drawing illustrating the foldable rack in the first embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] The folding rack 1 in the embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components and parts having the same function will be denoted by the same reference numeral, and repeated descriptions of components and parts denoted by the same reference numeral will be omitted.

[0022] (First Embodiment) The folding rack 1 in the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 24. Figures 1 to 7 are schematic perspective views illustrating the folding rack 1 in the first embodiment. In Figures 4 to 7, the first shelf 41 is shown with a dashed line to make it easier to understand the members and parts located below the first shelf 41, and members and parts that are normally not visible due to the presence of the first shelf 41 are also shown. Figures 8 and 9 are schematic side views illustrating how the folding rack 1 can change between an unfolded state S0, a first folded state S1, and a second folded state S2. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the first operating force transmission mechanism M1. Figures 11 and 12 are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of the folding rack 1 in the first embodiment. Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the first unit U1. Figures 14 to 18 are schematic perspective views illustrating the folding rack 1 in the first embodiment. In Figures 14 to 18, the first shelf 41 is shown with a dashed line to make it easier to understand the components and parts located below the first shelf 41, and components and parts that would normally be invisible due to the presence of the first shelf 41 are also shown. Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the second operating force transmission mechanism M2. Figures 20 and 21 are schematic perspective views illustrating a part of the foldable rack 1 in the first embodiment. Figure 22 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the second unit U2. Figure 23 is a schematic plan view illustrating the foldable rack 1 in the first embodiment. Figure 24 is a schematic three-view drawing illustrating the foldable rack 1 in the first embodiment. A schematic plan view is shown on the upper side of Figure 24, a schematic front view is shown on the lower left side of Figure 24, and a schematic side view is shown on the lower right side of Figure 24.

[0023] As illustrated in Figure 1, the folding rack 1 comprises a plurality of wheels 2, a main body 3, a first shelf 41, and an over-folding prevention member 50.

[0024] By rolling the multiple wheels 2 against the ground (e.g., the floor), the user can move the folding rack 1. In the example shown in Figure 1, multiple wheels 2 are located at the bottom of the folding rack 1.

[0025] The main body 3 is supported by multiple wheels 2. In the example shown in Figure 1, the main body 3 has multiple frames 30. Multiple wheels 2 are attached to the multiple frames 30.

[0026] The first shelf 41 is supported by the main body 3. In the example shown in Figure 1, the first shelf 41 is the uppermost shelf. The folding rack 1 may also have a second shelf 42 positioned below the first shelf 41. The folding rack 1 may also have a third shelf 43 positioned below the second shelf 42. In the example shown in Figure 1, the folding rack 1 has three shelves 4, but the folding rack 1 may have four or more shelves 4.

[0027] In the example shown in Figure 5, the over-folding prevention member 50 prevents the first shelf 41 from being folded excessively. In the example shown in Figure 5, the over-folding prevention member 50 prevents multiple shelves 4, including the first shelf 41 and the second shelf 42, from being folded excessively.

[0028] In the examples shown in Figures 1 and 2, the state of the first shelf 41 can be changed from the unfolded state S0 (see Figure 1) to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2). In the examples shown in Figures 1 and 2, the state of the second shelf 42 can be changed from the unfolded state S0 (see Figure 1) to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2). In the examples shown in Figures 1 and 2, the state of the third shelf 43 can be changed from the unfolded state S0 (see Figure 1) to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2).

[0029] In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, the state of the first shelf 41 can be changed from the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2) to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 3). The second folded state S2 (see Figure 3) of the first shelf 41 is a state in which the first shelf 41 is folded even further compared to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2).

[0030] In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, the state of the second shelf 42 can be changed from the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2) to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 3). The second folded state S2 (see Figure 3) of the second shelf 42 is a state in which the second shelf 42 is folded even further compared to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2).

[0031] In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, the state of the third shelf 43 can be changed from the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2) to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 3). The second folded state S2 (see Figure 3) of the third shelf 43 is a state in which the third shelf 43 is folded even further compared to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2).

[0032] As illustrated in Figures 5 to 7, changing the state of the first shelf 41 from the first folded state S1 (see Figure 5) to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 7) is possible after the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is disabled. In other words, in the examples shown in Figures 5 to 7, the state of the first shelf 41 can be changed from the first folded state S1 (see Figure 6) to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 7) after the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is disabled (see Figure 6). Note that Figure 5 shows the state in which the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is enabled, and Figure 6 shows the state in which the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is disabled.

[0033] In the example shown in Figure 8(b), when the first shelf 41 is in the first folded state S1, the posture of the main body 3 (or the posture of the folding rack 1) can be maintained in a self-supporting upright posture. In the example shown in Figure 8(b), when the second shelf 42 is in the first folded state S1, the posture of the main body 3 (or the posture of the folding rack 1) can be maintained in a self-supporting upright posture. Also, in the example shown in Figure 8(b), when the third shelf 43 is in the first folded state S1, the posture of the main body 3 (or the posture of the folding rack 1) can be maintained in a self-supporting upright posture. In this specification, a self-supporting upright posture means a state in which the unit stands upright independently without support from a wall or the like.

[0034] In the example shown in Figure 8(b), the main body 3 can be maintained in a self-standing position, so after setting each shelf 4 to the first folded state S1, the folding rack 1 can be easily moved while preventing it from tipping over. Furthermore, because the main body 3 can be maintained in a self-standing position, there is no need to lean the folding rack 1 against a wall or the like when storing it in a storage location.

[0035] In the example shown in Figure 8(b), each shelf 4 can be placed in the first folded state S1, making the folding rack 1 more compact. More specifically, by placing each shelf 4 in the first folded state S1, the area occupied by the folding rack 1 is reduced.

[0036] As illustrated in Figures 8(a), 8(b), and 8(c), distance L0 is defined as the distance between the center of the first wheel 2a and the center of the second wheel 2b when the folding rack 1 (or the first shelf 41, second shelf 42, third shelf 43, etc.) is in the unfolded state S0, distance L1 is defined as the distance between the center of the first wheel 2a and the center of the second wheel 2b when the folding rack 1 (or the first shelf 41, second shelf 42, third shelf 43, etc.) is in the first folded state S1, and distance L2 is defined as the distance between the center of the first wheel 2a and the center of the second wheel 2b when the folding rack 1 (or the first shelf 41, second shelf 42, third shelf 43, etc.) is in the second folded state S2. In the example shown in Figure 8, distance L1 is smaller than distance L0. Also, distance L2 is smaller than distance L1.

[0037] The ratio of distance L1 to distance L0 (in other words, distance L1 / distance L0) is, for example, 0.7 or less, 0.6 or less, or 0.5 or less. The ratio of distance L1 to distance L0 (in other words, distance L1 / distance L0) is, for example, 0.2 or more, 0.3 or more, or 0.4 or more. By having a sufficiently small ratio of distance L1 to distance L0, the size of the folding rack 1 in the first folded state S1 becomes compact. Also, by having a ratio of distance L1 to distance L0 that is not excessively small, the self-standing posture of the folding rack 1 is stably maintained.

[0038] In the example shown in Figure 8(c), each shelf 4 can be placed in the second folded state S2, making the foldable rack 1 even more compact. More specifically, by placing each shelf 4 in the second folded state S2, the foldable rack 1 can be stored in a narrow space.

[0039] In the examples shown in Figures 8(a) and 8(c), the ratio of distance L2 to distance L0 (in other words, distance L2 / distance L0) is, for example, 0.4 or less, 0.3 or less, or 0.2 or less. A smaller ratio of distance L2 to distance L0 results in a more compact size for the folding rack 1 in the second folding state S2. In the examples shown in Figures 8(b) and 8(c), the ratio of distance L2 to distance L1 (in other words, distance L2 / distance L1) is, for example, 0.5 or less, 0.4 or less, or 0.3 or less.

[0040] In the example shown in Figure 9, the foldable rack 1 comprises a front frame component 31f that supports the front end of the shelf board 4 (for example, the front end 41f of the first shelf board 41) and a rear frame component 31r that supports the rear end of the shelf board 4 (for example, the rear end 41r of the first shelf board 41).

[0041] As illustrated in Figures 9(a), 9(b), and 9(c), the distance between the front frame component 31f and the rear frame component 31r when the folding rack 1 (or the first shelf 41, second shelf 42, third shelf 43, etc.) is in the unfolded state S0 is defined as distance G0, the distance between the front frame component 31f and the rear frame component 31r when the folding rack 1 (or the first shelf 41, second shelf 42, third shelf 43, etc.) is in the first folded state S1 is defined as distance G1, and the distance between the front frame component 31f and the rear frame component 31r when the folding rack 1 (or the first shelf 41, second shelf 42, third shelf 43, etc.) is in the second folded state S2 is defined as distance G2. In the example shown in Figure 9, distance G1 is smaller than distance G0. Also, distance G2 is smaller than distance G1.

[0042] In the example shown in Figure 9, the ratio of interval G1 to interval G0 (in other words, interval G1 / interval G0) is, for example, 0.7 or less, 0.6 or less, or 0.5 or less. Also, the ratio of interval G2 to interval G0 (in other words, interval G2 / interval G0) is, for example, 0.4 or less, 0.3 or less, 0.2 or less, or 0.15 or less. Also, the ratio of interval G2 to interval G1 (in other words, interval G2 / interval G1) is, for example, 0.5 or less, 0.4 or less, 0.3 or less, or 0.25 or less.

[0043] The folding rack 1 in the first embodiment is equipped with an over-folding prevention member 50 (see Figure 5) that prevents the shelves 4, such as the first shelf 41, from being folded excessively. Furthermore, when the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is activated (see Figure 5), the folding rack 1 is prevented from being folded into the second folding state S2 (see Figure 7). Therefore, the folding rack 1 is prevented from being folded into the second folding state S2 (see Figure 7) due to carelessness, and the folding rack 1 is prevented from unintentionally tipping over.

[0044] When the over-folding prevention function by the over-folding prevention member 50 is activated (see Figure 5), the foldable rack 1 in an upright position can be moved stably.

[0045] (Optional additional configuration) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 24, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the foldable rack 1 in the first embodiment will be described.

[0046] (Disabling the over-folding prevention function) In the example shown in Figure 5, the folding rack 1 includes a first operating unit 53 that disables the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50. The first operating unit 53 is, for example, a first button 53B. In the examples shown in Figures 5 and 6, the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is disabled by operating the first operating unit 53 (more specifically, by pressing the first button 53B downward). After the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is disabled, it becomes possible to change the state of the shelf boards 4 (for example, the state of the first shelf board 41, the state of the second shelf board 42, and / or the state of the third shelf board 43) from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2.

[0047] When the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is disabled by pressing the first button 53B, the operation to disable the over-folding prevention function is simple. In other words, the user can easily disable the over-folding prevention function.

[0048] In the example shown in Figure 10, the folding rack 1 includes a first biasing member 55 that biases the first operating unit 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) toward the default position (more specifically, the first biasing member 55 that biases the first button 53B upward). In this case, unless the first button 53B is intentionally pressed against the biasing force of the first biasing member 55, the state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, cannot be changed from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 7). Therefore, it is prevented that the state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, will not be changed from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 7) unintentionally.

[0049] In the examples shown in Figures 5 and 6, the direction in which the operating force is applied to disable the overfolding prevention function of the overfolding prevention member 50 (more specifically, downward) is opposite to the direction in which the operating force is applied to change the state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 (more specifically, upward). More specifically, in the examples shown in Figures 5 and 6, the direction in which the first operating unit 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) is pressed (more specifically, downward) is opposite to the direction in which the operating force is applied to change the state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 (more specifically, upward). In this case, the unintentional change of the state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, to the second folded state S2 is prevented more effectively.

[0050] (Locking member 60) In the example shown in Figure 15, the folding rack 1 includes a locking member 60 that prevents the state of the first shelf 41 from returning from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0. In the example shown in Figure 15, the locking member 60 prevents the state of multiple shelves 4, including the first shelf 41 and the second shelf 42, from returning from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0. In the example shown in Figure 15, one locking member 60 prevents the state of multiple shelves 4, including the first shelf 41 and the second shelf 42, from returning from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0.

[0051] In the example shown in Figure 16, the folding rack 1 includes a second operating section 63 for releasing the lock by the locking member 60. More specifically, the folding rack 1 includes a second operating section 63 for releasing the lock by the locking member 60 so that the state of the shelves 4, such as the first shelf 41 (for example, the state of multiple shelves 4 including the first shelf 41 and the second shelf 42), can be returned from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0. The second operating section 63 is, for example, a second button 63B.

[0052] In the example shown in Figure 16, when the second operating unit 63 is operated (more specifically, when the second button 63B is pressed downward), the lock by the locking member 60 that prevents the state of the shelves 4 (for example, multiple shelves 4 such as the first shelf 41 and the second shelf 42) from returning from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0 is released. After the lock by the locking member 60 is released, it becomes possible to change the state of the shelves 4 (for example, the state of the first shelf 41, the state of the second shelf 42, and / or the state of the third shelf 43) from the first folded state S1 (see Figure 16) to the unfolded state S0 (see Figure 17).

[0053] In the example shown in Figure 16, even if the lock by the locking member 60 is released (more specifically, even if the second button 63B is pressed), the state of the shelf board 4 (for example, the state of the first shelf board 41, the state of the second shelf board 42, and / or the state of the third shelf board 43) cannot be changed from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 unless the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is disabled. Similarly, in the example shown in Figure 6, even if the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is disabled (more specifically, even if the first button 53B is pressed), the state of the shelf board 4 (for example, the state of the first shelf board 41, the state of the second shelf board 42, and / or the state of the third shelf board 43) cannot be changed from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0 unless the lock by the locking member 60 is released. Thus, the shelf board 4 in the first folded state is prevented from being changed to an unintended state.

[0054] When the lock by the locking member 60 is released by pressing the second button 63B, the operation for releasing the lock is simple. In other words, the user can easily release the lock by the locking member 60 that prevents the shelf board 4 from returning from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0.

[0055] In the example shown in Figure 19, the folding rack 1 includes a second biasing member 65 that biases the second button 63B toward the default position (more specifically, a second biasing member 65 that biases the second button 63B upward). In this case, unless the second button 63B is intentionally pressed against the biasing force of the second biasing member 65, the state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, cannot be changed from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0. Therefore, it is prevented that the state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, will not be changed from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0 unintentionally.

[0056] In the examples shown in Figures 16 and 17, the release of the lock and at least a part of the transition from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0 can be performed by pressing the second button 63B. In other words, when the state of the shelf 4, such as the first shelf 41, is the first folded state S1, pressing the second button 63B releases the lock, and further pressing of the second button 63B causes the state of the shelf 4, such as the first shelf 41, to transition from the first folded state S1 to a state where the amount of folding is less than that of the first folded state S1. Therefore, the operation to release the lock and the operation to reduce the amount of folding can be performed by pressing the second button 63B.

[0057] In the examples shown in Figures 16 and 17, the lock described above can be released and the state can be changed from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0 with only one action of pressing the second button 63B downward. In this case, the user can return the state of the shelf boards 4, such as the first shelf board 41, from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0 with a simple operation.

[0058] (Operation unit 11) In the example shown in Figure 4, the folding rack 1 is equipped with an operating unit 11 (for example, a first lateral operating unit 11a and / or a second lateral operating unit 11b) for pulling up a portion of the shelf boards 4, such as the first shelf board 41. More specifically, the folding rack 1 is equipped with an operating unit 11 for simultaneously pulling up a portion of the first shelf board 41 and a portion of the second shelf board 42. In the example shown in Figure 4, pulling up the operating unit 11 causes the slide frame 33, described later, to be pulled up.

[0059] As illustrated in Figure 4, the operating section 11 may include a first lateral operating section 11a positioned to the side of the shelf 4 in a plan view, and a second lateral operating section 11b positioned to the side of the shelf 4 in a plan view. In the example shown in Figure 4, the first shelf 41 is positioned between the first lateral operating section 11a and the second lateral operating section 11b in a plan view.

[0060] In the example shown in Figure 4, the state of the shelves 4, such as the first shelf 41 (for example, the state of the first shelf 41, the state of the second shelf 42, and / or the state of the third shelf 43), can be changed from the unfolded state S0 (see Figure 4) to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 5) by pressing the second operating unit 63 and pulling the operating unit 11 (more specifically, the first lateral operating unit 11a and the second lateral operating unit 11b) upward (see arrow AR1). In this case, the user can change the state of the shelves 4, such as the first shelf 41, from the unfolded state S0 to the first folded state S1 with a simple operation. Note that it is not necessary to operate the first operating unit 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) when changing the state of the shelves, such as the first shelf 41, from the unfolded state S0 to the first folded state S1.

[0061] In the example shown in Figure 6, the state of the shelves 4, such as the first shelf 41 (for example, the state of the first shelf 41, the state of the second shelf 42, and / or the state of the third shelf 43), can be changed from the first folded state S1 (see Figure 6) to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 7) by only two actions: a first action of pressing the first button 53B (more specifically, a first action of pressing the first button 53B downward: see arrow AR2) and a second action of pulling up the operating section 11 (more specifically, the first lateral operating section 11a and the second lateral operating section 11b) upward (see arrow AR3).

[0062] In this case, the user can change the state of the shelf boards 4, such as the first shelf board 41, from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 with a simple operation. Furthermore, the state of the shelf boards 4 will not change to the second folded state S2 by the action of pulling up the operating unit 11 alone, thus preventing accidental changes to the state of the shelf boards 4. If the direction of pressing the first button 53B and the direction of pulling up the operating unit 11 are opposite, such accidental operation is prevented even more effectively.

[0063] In the example shown in Figure 6, the operating section 11 has a closed-loop shape (for example, a roughly oval shape, a roughly triangular shape, a roughly rectangular shape, a roughly circular shape, etc.). More specifically, the first lateral operating section 11a has a closed-loop shape (for example, a roughly oval shape, a roughly triangular shape, a roughly rectangular shape, a roughly circular shape, etc.), and the second lateral operating section 11b has a closed-loop shape (for example, a roughly oval shape, a roughly triangular shape, a roughly rectangular shape, a roughly circular shape, etc.).

[0064] (Main body 3) In the example shown in Figure 17, the main body 3 includes a support frame 31 supported by a plurality of wheels 2, and a slide frame 33 that is relatively movable in a direction parallel to the vertical direction with respect to the support frame 31. The main body 3 may also have a slider 38 (more specifically, a first slider 38a and a second slider 38b) that moves vertically in conjunction with the folding operation of the shelf board 4. The main body 3 may also have a connecting member 37 that connects the support frame 31 and the slide frame 33.

[0065] In the example shown in Figure 17, the support frame 31 includes a plurality of frame components. In the example shown in Figure 17, the support frame 31 includes a front frame component 31f and a rear frame component 31r.

[0066] In the example shown in Figure 17, the support frame 31 includes a plurality of support columns 311.

[0067] In the example shown in Figure 17, the support frame 31 (more specifically, the front frame component 31f) includes a first support portion 311a and a second support portion 311b. The support frame 31 (more specifically, the front frame component 31f) may also have a first horizontal bar portion 312f connecting the first support portion 311a and the second support portion 311b. In the example shown in Figure 17, the front frame component 31f has a substantially U-shape when viewed from the front.

[0068] In the example shown in Figure 17, the support frame 31 (more specifically, the rear frame component 31r) includes a third support column 311c and a fourth support column 311d. The support frame 31 (more specifically, the rear frame component 31r) may also have a second horizontal bar 312r (see Figure 14) connecting the third support column 311c and the fourth support column 311d. In a front view, the rear frame component 31r has, for example, a substantially U-shape.

[0069] In the example shown in Figure 17, the first wheel 2a and the third wheel 2c are attached to the support frame 31 (more specifically, the front frame component 31f). The folding rack 1 may have a switching member that switches between prohibiting the rotation of the first wheel 2a and allowing the rotation of the first wheel 2a. Alternatively, or additionally, the folding rack 1 may have a switching member 21c that switches between prohibiting the rotation of the third wheel 2c and allowing the rotation of the third wheel 2c. In the example shown in Figure 17, the first wheel 2a is the right front wheel, and the third wheel 2c is the left front wheel.

[0070] In the examples shown in Figures 17 and 18, the second wheel 2b and the fourth wheel 2d are mounted on the support frame 31 (more specifically, the rear frame component 31r). The folding rack 1 may have a switching member 21b for switching between prohibiting the rotation of the second wheel 2b and allowing the rotation of the second wheel 2b. Alternatively, or additionally, the folding rack 1 may have a switching member for switching between prohibiting the rotation of the fourth wheel 2d and allowing the rotation of the fourth wheel 2d. In the examples shown in Figures 17 and 18, the second wheel 2b is the right rear wheel, and the fourth wheel 2d is the left rear wheel.

[0071] In the example shown in Figure 17, the slide frame 33 includes a first lateral slide frame 33a and a second lateral slide frame 33b. The slide frame 33 (more specifically, the first lateral slide frame 33a and the second lateral slide frame 33b) is positioned between the front frame component 31f and the rear frame component 31r. In the example shown in Figure 17, the first lateral slide frame 33a is positioned between the first support portion 311a and the third support portion 311c, and the second lateral slide frame 33b is positioned between the second support portion 311b and the fourth support portion 311d.

[0072] In the example shown in Figure 4, the slider 38 includes a first slider 38a and a second slider 38b. In the examples shown in Figures 4 to 7, the slider 38 moves up and down in conjunction with the folding operation of the shelf board 4 (e.g., the first shelf board 41). In the examples shown in Figures 4 and 5, when the state of the shelf board 4 (e.g., the first shelf board 41) is changed from the unfolded state S0 to the first folded state S1, the amount of upward movement of the slider 38 (e.g., the first slider 38a, the second slider 38b) is smaller than the amount of upward movement of the slide frame 33 (e.g., the first lateral slide frame 33a, the second lateral slide frame 33b). Furthermore, in the examples shown in Figures 6 and 7, when the state of the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) is changed from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2, the amount of upward movement of the slider 38 (for example, the first slider 38a, the second slider 38b) is smaller than the amount of upward movement of the slide frame 33 (for example, the first lateral slide frame 33a, the second lateral slide frame 33b).

[0073] In the examples shown in Figures 4 to 7, the first slider 38a slides relative to the first lateral slide frame 33a along the longitudinal direction of the first lateral slide frame 33a. In the examples shown in Figures 4 to 7, the first slider 38a is a cylindrical body positioned opposite the outer surface of the first lateral slide frame 33a. Furthermore, the first lateral slide frame 33a is positioned to pass through the cylindrical body, the first slider 38a.

[0074] In the examples shown in Figures 4 to 7, the second slider 38b slides relative to the second lateral slide frame 33b along the longitudinal direction of the second lateral slide frame 33b. In the examples shown in Figures 4 to 7, the second slider 38b is a cylindrical body positioned opposite the outer surface of the second lateral slide frame 33b. Furthermore, the second lateral slide frame 33b is positioned to pass through the cylindrical second slider 38b.

[0075] In the example shown in Figure 8, the connecting member 37 includes a first connecting rod 371 and a second connecting rod 372. The first connecting rod 371 connects the first support column 311a and the first lateral slide frame 33a. More specifically, the first connecting rod 371 connects the first support column 311a and the first lateral slide frame 33a via the first slider 38a.

[0076] In the example shown in Figure 8, the first connecting rod 371 is supported on the first support column 311a so as to be tiltable relative to the first support column 311a, and is supported on the first slider 38a so as to be tiltable relative to the first slider 38a.

[0077] In the example shown in Figure 8, the second connecting rod 372 connects the third support column 311c and the first lateral slide frame 33a. More specifically, the second connecting rod 372 connects the third support column 311c and the first lateral slide frame 33a via the first slider 38a.

[0078] In the example shown in Figure 8, the second connecting rod 372 is supported on the third support column 311c so as to be tiltable relative to the third support column 311c, and is supported on the first slider 38a so as to be tiltable relative to the first slider 38a.

[0079] In the example shown in Figure 9, the connecting member 37 includes a third connecting rod 373 and a fourth connecting rod 374. The third connecting rod 373 connects the second support column 311b and the second lateral slide frame 33b. More specifically, the third connecting rod 373 connects the second support column 311b and the second lateral slide frame 33b via the second slider 38b.

[0080] In the example shown in Figure 9, the third connecting rod 373 is supported on the second support column 311b so as to be tiltable relative to the second support column 311b, and is supported on the second slider 38b so as to be tiltable relative to the second slider 38b.

[0081] In the example shown in Figure 9, the fourth connecting rod 374 connects the fourth support column 311d and the second lateral slide frame 33b. More specifically, the fourth connecting rod 374 connects the fourth support column 311d and the second lateral slide frame 33b via the second slider 38b.

[0082] In the example shown in Figure 9, the fourth connecting rod 374 is supported on the fourth support column 311d so as to be tiltable relative to the fourth support column 311d, and is supported on the second slider 38b so as to be tiltable relative to the second slider 38b.

[0083] (Shelf board 4) In the example shown in Figure 1, shelf 4 includes a first shelf 41. In the example shown in Figure 1, the first shelf 41 constitutes the top plate of the folding rack 1.

[0084] In the example shown in Figure 1, the front end 41f of the first shelf 41 is tiltably supported by the support frame 31 (more specifically, the first support column 311a and the second support column 311b). The rear end 41r of the first shelf 41 is also tiltably supported by the support frame 31 (more specifically, the third support column 311c and the fourth support column 311d).

[0085] In the example shown in Figure 1, the first shelf 41 is foldable in half at its middle section 41m. The middle section 41m of the first shelf 41 is supported by a slide frame 33 (more specifically, a first lateral slide frame 33a and a second lateral slide frame 33b) so that the first shelf 41 can be folded in half at its middle section 41m.

[0086] More specifically, the first shelf 41 includes a front plate 411 and a rear plate 413. The rear end of the front plate 411 and the front end of the rear plate 413 are each tiltably supported by a slide frame 33 (more specifically, a first lateral slide frame 33a and a second lateral slide frame 33b).

[0087] In the example shown in Figure 1, shelf 4 includes a second shelf 42. In the example shown in Figure 1, the second shelf 42 is located directly below (in other words, vertically downward from) the first shelf 41.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 1, the front end 42f of the second shelf 42 is tiltably supported by the support frame 31 (more specifically, the first support column 311a and the second support column 311b). The rear end 42r of the second shelf 42 is also tiltably supported by the support frame 31 (more specifically, the third support column 311c and the fourth support column 311d).

[0089] In the example shown in Figure 1, the second shelf 42 is foldable in half at its middle section 42m. The middle section 42m of the second shelf 42 is supported by a slide frame 33 (more specifically, a first lateral slide frame 33a and a second lateral slide frame 33b) so that the second shelf 42 can be folded in half at its middle section 42m.

[0090] In the example shown in Figure 1, shelf 4 includes a third shelf 43. In the example shown in Figure 1, the third shelf 43 is located directly below (in other words, vertically below) the second shelf 42.

[0091] In the example shown in Figure 1, the front end 43f of the third shelf 43 is tiltably supported by the support frame 31 (more specifically, the first support column 311a and the second support column 311b). The rear end 43r of the third shelf 43 is also tiltably supported by the support frame 31 (more specifically, the third support column 311c and the fourth support column 311d).

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 1, the third shelf 43 is foldable in half at its middle section 43m. The middle section 43m of the third shelf 43 is supported by a slide frame 33 (more specifically, a first lateral slide frame 33a and a second lateral slide frame 33b) so that the third shelf 43 can be folded in half at its middle section 43m.

[0093] In the example shown in Figure 1, when the slide frame 33 moves upward, the state of the first shelf 41 changes from the unfolded state S0 to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2). When the slide frame 33 moves further upward, the state of the first shelf 41 changes from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 3). In the examples shown in Figures 1 and 3, the first shelf 41 is folded in half as the state of the first shelf 41 changes from the unfolded state S0 to the second folded state S2.

[0094] In the example shown in Figure 1, when the slide frame 33 moves upward, the state of the second shelf 42 changes from the unfolded state S0 to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2). When the slide frame 33 moves further upward, the state of the second shelf 42 changes from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 3). In the examples shown in Figures 1 and 3, the second shelf 42 is folded in half when its state changes from the unfolded state S0 to the second folded state S2. Also, the third shelf 43 is folded in half when its state changes from the unfolded state S0 to the second folded state S2.

[0095] In the example shown in Figure 9(c), when the first shelf 41 is in the unfolded state S0, the upper surface of the front plate 411 of the first shelf 41 and the upper surface of the rear plate 413 of the first shelf 41 are substantially flush. The angle α1 between the upper surface of the front plate 411 of the first shelf 41 and the upper surface of the rear plate 413 of the first shelf 41 when the first shelf 41 is in the first folded state S1 is greater than the angle α2 between the upper surface of the front plate 411 of the first shelf 41 and the upper surface of the rear plate 413 of the first shelf 41 when the first shelf 41 is in the second folded state S2. The angle α1 is, for example, 30 degrees or more and 70 degrees or less, or 40 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less. The angle α2 is, for example, less than 30 degrees, less than 20 degrees, less than 15 degrees, or less than 10 degrees.

[0096] In the example shown in Figure 3, when the slide frame 33 moves downward, the state of the first shelf 41 changes from the second folded state S2 to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 2). When the slide frame 33 moves further downward, the state of the first shelf 41 changes from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0 (see Figure 1).

[0097] (Excessive folding prevention member 50) In the examples shown in Figures 5 and 6, the position of the over-folding prevention member 50 can be changed between an extended position P1 and a retracted position P2. More specifically, the over-folding prevention member 50 includes a first protruding member 500 that can be changed between an extended position P1 and a retracted position P2. The first protruding member 500 may be a first hook 500f.

[0098] In the example shown in Figure 10, when the first operating unit 53 is operated (more specifically, when the first button 53B is pressed), the position of the over-folding prevention member 50 (more specifically, the first protruding member 500) is changed from the extended position P1 to the retracted position P2. On the other hand, when no operating force is applied to the first operating unit 53 (more specifically, when the first button 53B is not pressed), the position of the over-folding prevention member 50 (more specifically, the first protruding member 500) returns to the extended position P1 due to the biasing force of the first biasing member 55.

[0099] When the over-folding prevention member 50 (more specifically, the first protruding member 500) is in the extended position P1, the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is activated (in other words, the change of state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 is prohibited), and when the over-folding prevention member 50 (more specifically, the first protruding member 500) is in the retracted position P2, the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is deactivated (in other words, the change of state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 is permitted).

[0100] In the example shown in Figure 11, a through-hole 33h is formed in the side wall of the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the first lateral slide frame 33a). The base of the first protruding member 500 is positioned inside the slide frame 33 (first lateral slide frame 33a). When the first protruding member 500 is repositioned from the retracted position P2 to the extended position P1, at least a portion of the first protruding member 500 moves across the through-hole 33h. Also, when the first protruding member 500 is repositioned from the retracted position P2 to the extended position P1, the amount of protrusion of the first protruding member 500 from the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the amount of protrusion from the through-hole 33h) increases. On the other hand, when the first protruding member 500 is repositioned from the extended position P1 to the retracted position P2, the amount of protrusion of the first protruding member 500 from the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the amount of protrusion from the through-hole 33h) decreases.

[0101] As illustrated in Figure 5, in this specification, the direction from the first lateral slide frame 33a toward the second lateral slide frame 33b (or the direction from the first support column 311a toward the second support column 311b) is defined as the first direction DR1. In the example shown in Figure 5, when the first protruding member 500 is in the extended position P1, the first protruding member 500 protrudes from the first lateral slide frame 33a toward the first direction DR1.

[0102] In the example shown in Figure 5, when the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) is in the extended position P1, the first protruding member 500 is located on the movement trajectory of the first slider 38a.

[0103] As illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, when the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) is in the extended position P1, and the folding rack 1 (more specifically, the operating unit 11) is operated so that the shelf 4 (e.g., the first shelf 41) in the unfolded state S0 is folded, the first slider 38a collides with the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the hook portion of the first hook 500f) when the state of the shelf 4 (e.g., the first shelf 41) becomes the first folded state S1. In this way, the collision between the first protruding member 500 and the first slider 38a causes the state of the shelf 4 (e.g., the first shelf 41) to become the first folded state S1, and the collision between the first protruding member 500 and the first slider 38a prevents the state of the shelf 4 (e.g., the first shelf 41) from becoming the second folded state S2.

[0104] As illustrated in Figure 5, when the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) is in the first folded state S1 and the first protruding member 500 is in the extended position P1, the upper surface 500u of the first protruding member 500 is positioned opposite the lower end of the first slider 38a. In the example shown in Figure 5, even if the first slider 38a strongly collides with the upper surface 500u of the first protruding member 500, the first protruding member 500 will not change position from the extended position P1 to the retracted position P2. Therefore, even if the first slider 38a strongly collides with the upper surface 500u of the first protruding member 500, the state of the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) is effectively prevented from changing from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2.

[0105] In the example shown in Figure 12, when the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) is in the retracted position P2, the first protruding member 500 does not interfere with the movement trajectory of the first slider 38a.

[0106] As illustrated in Figure 6, when the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) is in the retracted position P2, and the folding rack 1 (more specifically, the operating unit 11) is operated so that the shelf 4 (e.g., the first shelf 41) in the first folded state S1 is further folded, the lower end of the first slider 38a moves relative to the first protruding member 500, crossing it and moving downward. In this way, the state of the shelf 4 (e.g., the first shelf 41) changes from the first folded state S1 to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 7).

[0107] In the example shown in Figure 7, when the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) is in the second folded state S2, the first protruding member 500 is stored inside the first slider 38a. In the example shown in Figure 7, when returning the shelf board 4 from the second folded state S2 to the first folded state S1, operation of the first operating unit 53 is unnecessary (more specifically, pressing the first button 53B is unnecessary). In the example shown in Figure 14, by directly applying an opening force to the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) (see arrow AR4), the state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, can be returned from the second folded state S2 to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 15). In the example shown in Figure 14, the state of the shelf boards 4, such as the first shelf board 41, can be returned from the second folded state S2 to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 15) simply by applying a force in the opening direction directly to the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) without operating the first operating unit 53 (see arrow AR4).

[0108] (First operating force transmission mechanism M1) In the example shown in Figure 13, the folding rack 1 includes a first operating force transmission mechanism M1 that transmits a first operating force acting on the first operating section 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) to the over-folding prevention member 50.

[0109] The first operating force transmission mechanism M1 converts the operating force acting on the first operating section 53 (more specifically, the downward first operating force acting on the first button 53B) into a first moving force that moves the over-folding prevention member 50 from the extended position P1 to the retracted position P2. In the example shown in Figure 13, the first operating force transmission mechanism M1 includes a first movable arm 54 (more specifically, a first link arm 540) that connects the first operating section 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) and the over-folding prevention member 50.

[0110] In the example shown in Figure 13, the first operating force transmission mechanism M1 includes a first fixed arm 56 that slidably supports the first movable arm 54. The first fixed arm 56 is fixed to the slide frame 33 (first lateral slide frame 33a).

[0111] The first operating force transmission mechanism M1 may include a first biasing member 55 (more specifically, a coil spring 55s) that biases the first movable arm 54 upward. The first operating force transmission mechanism M1 may also include a first pin member PN1 and / or a second pin member PN2, as described later.

[0112] In the example shown in Figure 13, the assembly comprising the first operating force transmission mechanism M1, which includes the first movable arm 54, the first biasing member 55, and the first fixed arm 56, and the first protruding member 500, is unitized as the first unit U1. In this case, the first operating force transmission mechanism M1 and the first protruding member 500 can be positioned inside the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the first lateral slide frame 33a) simply by inserting the first unit U1 into the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the first lateral slide frame 33a). Therefore, it is easy to mount the first operating force transmission mechanism M1 and the first protruding member 500 onto the slide frame 33.

[0113] In the example shown in Figure 13, the first unit U1 includes the first operating section 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B). Alternatively, the first operating section 53 does not have to be included in the first unit U1. In this case, the first operating section 53 may be attached to the first unit U1 after the first unit U1 has been attached to the slide frame 33.

[0114] In the example shown in Figure 10, the first movable arm 54 moves vertically downward along with the first button 53B in response to the pressing of the first button 53B. The length of the first movable arm 54 is, for example, 10 cm or more, 15 cm or more, or 20 cm or more.

[0115] In the example shown in Figure 10, the first movable arm 54 has an inclined hole 54h that inclins inward as it moves downward (more specifically, an inclined hole 54h that inclins toward the first direction DR1 as it moves downward). A first pin member PN1 connected to the first protruding member 500 is inserted into the inclined hole 54h. The first pin member PN1 is slidable along the inclined hole 54h, and the first protruding member 500 is rotatable around the central axis of the first pin member PN1 (hereinafter referred to as the "rotation axis AX1").

[0116] In the example shown in Figure 10, the first movable arm 54 has an elongated hole 54k that extends in the vertical direction. A second pin member PN2, which is connected to the first protruding member 500, is inserted into the elongated hole 54k. The second pin member PN2 is slidable along the elongated hole 54k, and the first protruding member 500 is tiltable around the central axis of the second pin member PN2 (hereinafter referred to as the "tilting axis AX2").

[0117] In the examples shown in Figures 11 and 12, the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) is connected to the first fixed arm 56 so as to be able to tilt around the tilt axis AX2. More specifically, the first operating force transmission mechanism M1 has a second pin member PN2 positioned along the tilt axis AX2, and the first protruding member 500 is connected to the first fixed arm 56 via the second pin member PN2.

[0118] In the example shown in Figure 11, when the first movable arm 54 moves downward (more specifically, when the first movable arm 54 moves relative to the first fixed arm 56 in a vertical downward direction), the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) tilts around the tilt axis AX2. Also, when the first movable arm 54 moves downward, the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) moves along the inclined hole 54h. Furthermore, when the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) moves along the inclined hole 54h, the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) rotates around the pivot axis AX1. In this way, the position of the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) is changed from the extended position P1 (see Figure 11) to the retracted position P2 (see Figure 12).

[0119] In the examples shown in Figures 11 and 12, when the position of the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) is changed from the extended position P1 to the retracted position P2, the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) tilts relative to the first movable arm 54 and slides relative to the first movable arm 54 (more specifically, slides along the inclined hole 54h). The combination of tilting and sliding allows the first protruding member 500 to move a large distance with a small operating stroke.

[0120] Alternatively, when the position of the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) is changed from the extended position P1 to the retracted position P2, the first protruding member 500 (more specifically, the first hook 500f) may be configured to slide only relative to the first movable arm 54, or to tilt only relative to the first movable arm 54.

[0121] The first movable arm 54 may be substantially entirely located within the internal space of the first lateral slide frame 33a. In this case, the first movable arm 54 is protected by the first lateral slide frame 33a. The first operating force transmission mechanism M1 may be substantially entirely located within the internal space of the first lateral slide frame 33a. In this case, the first operating force transmission mechanism M1 is protected by the first lateral slide frame 33a.

[0122] In the examples shown in Figures 11 and 12, the first movable arm 54 does not substantially swing relative to the first lateral slide frame 33a (or the first fixed arm 56). In this case, the movement of the first movable arm 54 is simplified, and malfunctions are less likely to occur in the first operating force transmission mechanism M1.

[0123] In the example shown in Figure 10, the first biasing member 55 is a cylindrical coil spring, not a leaf spring. In this case, there is no need to fine-tune the leaf spring, and malfunctions are less likely to occur in the first operating force transmission mechanism M1. However, the embodiment does not exclude the case in which the first biasing member 55 is a leaf spring.

[0124] (Locking member 60) In the example shown in Figure 19, the position of the locking member 60 can be changed between a second extended position P3 and a second retracted position P4. More specifically, the locking member 60 includes a second protruding member 600 that can be changed between the second extended position P3 and the second retracted position P4. The second protruding member 600 may be a second hook 600f. In the examples shown in Figures 10 and 19, the orientation of the second hook 600f is opposite to that of the first hook 500f. More specifically, the second hook 600f is an inverted hook that engages with the object to be engaged (more specifically, the second slider 38b) from above, while the first hook 500f is an upright hook that engages with the object to be engaged (more specifically, the first slider 38a) from below.

[0125] In the example shown in Figure 19, when the second operating section 63 is operated (more specifically, when the second button 63B is pressed), the position of the locking member 60 (more specifically, the second protruding member 600) is changed from the second extended position P3 to the second retracted position P4. On the other hand, when no operating force is applied to the second operating section 63 (more specifically, when the second button 63B is not pressed), the position of the locking member 60 (more specifically, the second protruding member 600) returns to the second extended position P3 due to the biasing force of the second biasing member 65.

[0126] When the locking member 60 (more specifically, the second protruding member 600) is in the second extended position P3, the locking function of the locking member 60 is activated (in other words, the change of state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0 is prohibited), and when the locking member 60 (more specifically, the second protruding member 600) is in the second retracted position P4, the lock by the locking member 60 is released (in other words, the change of state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0 is permitted).

[0127] In the example shown in Figure 20, a second through-hole 33k is formed in the side wall of the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the second lateral slide frame 33b). The base of the second protruding member 600 is positioned inside the slide frame (second lateral slide frame 33b). When the second protruding member 600 is repositioned from the second retracted position P4 to the second extended position P3, at least a portion of the second protruding member 600 moves across the second through-hole 33k. Also, when the second protruding member 600 is repositioned from the second retracted position P4 to the second extended position P3, the amount of protrusion of the second protruding member 600 from the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the amount of protrusion from the second through-hole 33k) increases. On the other hand, when the second protruding member 600 is repositioned from the second extended position P3 to the second retracted position P4, the amount of protrusion of the second protruding member 600 from the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the amount of protrusion from the second through-hole 33k) decreases.

[0128] As illustrated in Figure 14, in this specification, the direction from the second lateral slide frame 33b toward the first lateral slide frame 33a (or the direction from the second support column 311b toward the first support column 311a) is defined as the second direction DR2. In the example shown in Figure 14, the second direction DR2 is the opposite direction to the first direction DR1. In the example shown in Figure 14, when the second protruding member 600 is in the second extended position P3, the second protruding member 600 protrudes from the second lateral slide frame 33b toward the second direction DR2.

[0129] In the example shown in Figure 14, when the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) is in the second extended position P3, the second protruding member 600 is located on the movement trajectory of the second slider 38b.

[0130] As illustrated in Figure 14, when the shelf 4 (for example, the first shelf 41) in the second folded state S2 is unfolded while the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) is in the second extended position P3 (see Figure 15), the second slider 38b collides with the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the hook portion of the second hook 600f) when the state of the shelf 4 (for example, the first shelf 41) changes from the second folded state S2 to the first folded state S1. In this way, the collision between the second protruding member 600 and the second slider 38b prevents the state of the shelf 4 (for example, the first shelf 41) from changing from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0.

[0131] In the example shown in Figure 15, when the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) is in the first folded state S1 and the second operating unit 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) is not operated, the second protruding member 600 in the second extended position P3 is located directly above the second slider 38b.

[0132] As illustrated in Figure 15, when the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) is in the first folded state S1 and the second protruding member 600 is in the second extended position P3, the lower surface 600w of the second protruding member 600 (see Figure 20) is positioned opposite the upper end of the second slider 38b. In the example shown in Figure 20, even if the second slider 38b strongly collides with the lower surface 600w of the second protruding member 600, the second protruding member 600 will not change position from the second extended position P3 to the second retracted position P4. Therefore, the state of the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) is effectively prevented from changing from the first folded state S1 to the unfolded state S0.

[0133] In the example shown in Figure 21, when the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) is in the second retracted position P4, the second protruding member 600 does not interfere with the movement trajectory of the second slider 38b.

[0134] When the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) is in the second retracted position P4, the folding rack 1 (for example, the second operating unit 63) is operated so that the shelf 4 (for example, the first shelf 41) in the first folded state S1 is further unfolded (see arrow AR5 in Figure 16). The second slider 38b moves relative to the second protruding member 600, across the second protruding member 600, and upward. In this way, the shelf 4 (for example, the first shelf 41) is in the unfolded state S0 (see Figure 17).

[0135] In the example shown in Figure 18, when the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) is in the unfolded state S0 and the second operating unit 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) is not operated, the second protruding member 600 in the second extended position P3 is located directly below (in other words, vertically downward) the second slider 38b.

[0136] In the example shown in Figure 18, when the state of the shelf board 4 (for example, the first shelf board 41) is changed from the unfolded state S0 to the first folded state S1, the second slider 38b collides with the upper surface 600u of the second protruding member 600. In the example shown in Figure 18, when the second slider 38b collides with the upper surface 600u of the second protruding member 600, the second protruding member 600 may be configured to automatically change position from the second extended position P3 to the second retracted position P4. In this case, operation of the second operating unit 63 is unnecessary when changing the state of the shelf board 4 from the unfolded state S0 to the first folded state S1 (more specifically, pressing the second button 63B is unnecessary). In the example shown in Figure 18, the state of the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, can be changed from the unfolded state S0 to the first folded state S1 simply by applying an upward force to the operating unit 11. Furthermore, if the second slider 38b is strongly jammed when it collides with the upper surface 600u of the second protruding member 600, the state of the shelf board 4 can be changed from the unfolded state S0 to the first folded state S1 by pushing the second operating unit 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) downward while pulling the operating unit 11 (more specifically, the first lateral operating unit 11a and the second lateral operating unit 11b) upward.

[0137] (Second operating force transmission mechanism M2) In the example shown in Figure 22, the folding rack 1 includes a second operating force transmission mechanism M2 that transmits a second operating force acting on the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) to the locking member 60.

[0138] The second operating force transmission mechanism M2 converts the operating force acting on the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the downward second operating force acting on the second button 63B) into a second moving force that moves the locking member 60 from the second extended position P3 to the second retracted position P4. In the example shown in Figure 22, the second operating force transmission mechanism M2 includes a second movable arm 64 (more specifically, a second link arm 640) that connects the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) and the locking member 60.

[0139] In the example shown in Figure 22, the second operating force transmission mechanism M2 includes a second fixed arm 66 that slidably supports the second movable arm 64. The second fixed arm 66 is fixed to the slide frame 33 (second lateral slide frame 33b).

[0140] The second operating force transmission mechanism M2 may include a second biasing member 65 (more specifically, a coil spring 65s) that biases the second movable arm 64 upward. The second operating force transmission mechanism M2 may also include a third pin member PN3 and / or a fourth pin member PN4, as described later.

[0141] In the example shown in Figure 22, the assembly containing the second operating force transmission mechanism M2, which includes the second movable arm 64, the second biasing member 65, and the second fixed arm 66, and the second protruding member 600, is unitized as the second unit U2. In this case, the second operating force transmission mechanism M2 and the second protruding member 600 can be positioned inside the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the second lateral slide frame 33b) simply by inserting the second unit U2 into the slide frame 33 (more specifically, the second lateral slide frame 33b). Therefore, it is easy to mount the second operating force transmission mechanism M2 and the second protruding member 600 onto the slide frame 33.

[0142] In the example shown in Figure 22, the second unit U2 includes the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B). Alternatively, the second operating section 63 does not have to be included in the second unit U2. In this case, the second operating section 63 may be attached to the second unit U2 after the second unit U2 has been attached to the slide frame 33.

[0143] In the example shown in Figure 19, the second movable arm 64 moves vertically downward along with the second button 63B in response to the pressing of the second button 63B. The length of the second movable arm 64 is, for example, 10 cm or more, or 15 cm or more. The length of the second movable arm 64 may be 3 cm or more shorter than the length of the first movable arm 54 (see Figure 10), or 5 cm or more shorter than the length of the first movable arm 54 (see Figure 10).

[0144] In the example shown in Figure 19, the second movable arm 64 has a second inclined hole 64h that inclins inward as it extends downward (more specifically, a second inclined hole 64h that inclins toward the second direction DR2 as it extends downward). A third pin member PN3, connected to the second protruding member 600, is inserted into the second inclined hole 64h. The third pin member PN3 is slidable along the second inclined hole 64h, and the second protruding member 600 is rotatable around the central axis of the third pin member PN3 (hereinafter referred to as the "second pivot axis AT1").

[0145] In the example shown in Figure 19, the second movable arm 64 has a second elongated hole 64k that extends along the vertical direction. A fifth pin member PN5, connected to the second fixed arm 66, is inserted into the second elongated hole 64k. The fifth pin member PN5 guides the relative movement of the second movable arm 64 with respect to the second fixed arm 66 (more specifically, relative movement in a direction parallel to the vertical direction).

[0146] In the example shown in Figure 19, the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) is connected to the second fixed arm 66 so as to be able to tilt around the second tilt axis AT2.

[0147] In the example shown in Figure 19, the second operating force transmission mechanism M2 has a fourth pin member PN4 positioned along the second tilt axis AT2, and the second protruding member 600 is connected to the second fixed arm 66 via the fourth pin member PN4. The second protruding member 600 is also tiltable around the second tilt axis AT2, which is the central axis of the fourth pin member PN4.

[0148] In the example shown in Figure 20, when the second movable arm 64 moves downward (more specifically, when the second movable arm 64 moves relative to the second fixed arm 66 in a vertical downward direction), the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) tilts around the second tilting axis AT2. Also, when the second movable arm 64 moves downward, the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) moves along the second inclined hole 64h. Furthermore, when the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) moves along the second inclined hole 64h, the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) rotates around the second pivoting axis AT1. In this way, the position of the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) is changed from the second extended position P3 (see Figure 20) to the second retracted position P4 (see Figure 21).

[0149] In the examples shown in Figures 20 and 21, when the position of the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) is changed from the second extended position P3 to the second retracted position P4, the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) tilts relative to the second movable arm 64 and slides relative to the second movable arm 64 (more specifically, slides along the second inclined hole 64h). The combination of tilting and sliding allows the second protruding member 600 to move a large distance with a small operating stroke.

[0150] Alternatively, when the position of the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) is changed from the second extended position P3 to the second retracted position P4, the second protruding member 600 (more specifically, the second hook 600f) may be configured to slide only relative to the second movable arm 64, or to tilt only relative to the second movable arm 64.

[0151] The second movable arm 64 may be substantially entirely located within the internal space of the second lateral slide frame 33b. In this case, the second movable arm 64 is protected by the second lateral slide frame 33b. The second operating force transmission mechanism M2 may be substantially entirely located within the internal space of the second lateral slide frame 33b. In this case, the second operating force transmission mechanism M2 is protected by the second lateral slide frame 33b.

[0152] In the examples shown in Figures 20 and 21, the second movable arm 64 does not substantially swing relative to the second lateral slide frame 33b (or the second fixed arm 66). In this case, the movement of the second movable arm 64 is simplified, and malfunctions are less likely to occur in the second operating force transmission mechanism M2.

[0153] In the example shown in Figure 19, the second biasing member 65 is a cylindrical coil spring, not a leaf spring. In this case, there is no need to fine-tune the leaf spring, and malfunctions are less likely to occur in the second operating force transmission mechanism M2.

[0154] (First operating section 53, and second operating section 63) In the example shown in Figure 23, the first shelf 41 is positioned between the first operating section 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) and the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) in a plan view. Since the second operating section 63 is positioned on the opposite side of the first operating section 53, operating errors are less likely to occur.

[0155] In the example shown in Figure 18, the first operating section 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) is positioned directly above the first lateral slide frame 33a. In this case, the amount of protrusion of the first operating section 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) in the second direction DR2 is small. Therefore, it is less likely that a person passing by the folding rack 1 will come into contact with the first operating section 53.

[0156] In the example shown in Figure 6, the point (in other words, the point of force application) for the user to apply operating force to the first operating unit 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) is located directly above the first lateral slide frame 33a. In this case, the movement of the first operating unit 53 and the operation of the first operating force transmission mechanism M1 within the first lateral slide frame 33a can be simplified, and malfunctions of the first operating force transmission mechanism M1 are less likely to occur. In the example shown in Figure 13, the point (in other words, the point of force application) for the user to apply operating force to the first operating unit 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B), the connection between the first operating unit 53 and the first movable arm 54, and the first movable arm 54 are all located on a straight line (more specifically, on a straight line parallel to the vertical direction).

[0157] In the example shown in Figure 23, the overhang length L3 of the first operating section 53 toward the second direction DR2 from the first plane PL1, which is parallel to the vertical direction and passes through the end of the first support section 311a toward the second direction DR2 and the end of the third support section 311c toward the second direction DR2, is 1 cm or less (more preferably 5 mm or less, and even more preferably zero). When the overhang length L3 is small, it is difficult for a person passing by the folding rack 1 to come into contact with the first operating section 53. As illustrated in Figure 23, when the third plane PL3 is defined as a plane parallel to the vertical direction and passing through the end of the first connecting rod 371 toward the second direction DR2 and the end of the second connecting rod 372 toward the second direction DR2, the entire first operating section 53 may be located toward the first direction DR1 side of the third plane PL3. In this case, it is even more difficult for a person passing by the folding rack 1 to come into contact with the first operating section 53.

[0158] In the example shown in Figure 23, the edge shape of the first operating section 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) on the second direction DR2 side in a plan view is an arc shape. When the edge shape of the first operating section 53 on the second direction DR2 side is an arc shape, objects that come into contact with the first operating section 53 are less likely to be damaged.

[0159] In the example shown in Figure 23, the first operating unit 53 is positioned on the extension of the boundary line LN1 between the front plate 411 and the rear plate 413 of the first shelf 41 in a plan view.

[0160] In the example shown in Figure 18, the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) is positioned directly above the second lateral slide frame 33b. In this case, the amount of protrusion of the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) in the first direction DR1 is small. Therefore, it is less likely that a person passing by the folding rack 1 will come into contact with the second operating section 63.

[0161] In the example shown in Figure 16, the point (in other words, the point of force application) for the user to apply operating force to the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) is located directly above the second lateral slide frame 33b. In this case, the movement of the second operating section 63 and the operation of the second operating force transmission mechanism M2 within the second lateral slide frame 33b can be simplified, and malfunctions of the second operating force transmission mechanism M2 are less likely to occur. In the example shown in Figure 22, the point (in other words, the point of force application) for the user to apply operating force to the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B), the connection between the second operating section 63 and the second movable arm 64, and the second movable arm 64 are all located on a straight line (more specifically, on a straight line parallel to the vertical direction).

[0162] In the example shown in Figure 23, the overhang length L4 of the second operating section 63 toward the first direction DR1 from the second plane PL2, which is parallel to the vertical direction and passes through the end of the second support section 311b on the first direction DR1 side and the end of the fourth support section 311d on the first direction DR1 side, is 1 cm or less (more preferably 5 mm or less, and even more preferably zero). When the overhang length L4 is small, it is difficult for a person passing by the folding rack 1 to come into contact with the second operating section 63. As illustrated in Figure 23, when the fourth plane PL4 is defined as a plane parallel to the vertical direction and passing through the end of the third connecting rod 373 on the first direction DR1 side and the end of the fourth connecting rod 374 on the first direction DR1 side, the entire second operating section 63 may be located on the second direction DR2 side of the fourth plane PL4. In this case, it is even more difficult for a person passing by the folding rack 1 to come into contact with the second operating section 63.

[0163] In the example shown in Figure 23, the edge shape of the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) on the first direction DR1 side in a plan view is an arc shape. When the edge shape of the second operating section 63 on the first direction DR1 side is an arc shape, objects that come into contact with the second operating section 63 are less likely to be damaged.

[0164] In the example shown in Figure 23, the second operating section 63 is positioned on the extension of the boundary line LN1 between the front plate 411 and the rear plate 413 of the first shelf 41 in a plan view.

[0165] The primary color of the outer surface of the first operating section 53 (more specifically, the first button 53B) is the primary color (for example, a warning color such as red). When the primary color of the outer surface of the first operating section 53 is a warning color such as red, the first operating section 53 is less likely to be operated by mistake, and the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member 50 is less likely to be accidentally disabled.

[0166] The primary color of the outer surface of the second operating section 63 (more specifically, the second button 63B) is a secondary color (for example, a warning color such as yellow). When the secondary color is different from the first color, accidental operation of the first operating section 53 and the second operating section 63 is less likely to occur.

[0167] (First side operation section 11a) In the example shown in Figure 6, both the first operating section 53 and the operating section 11 (more specifically, the first lateral operating section 11a) can be operated simultaneously with one hand. In the example shown in Figure 6, the distance between the first operating section 53 and the first lateral operating section 11a is 10 cm or less.

[0168] In the example shown in Figure 6, the first operating section 53 can be pressed downward with one hand while the first lateral operating section 11a can be pulled upward with the same hand. More specifically, the first operating section 53 can be pressed downward with the thumb of one hand while the first lateral operating section 11a can be pulled upward with the index, middle, and ring fingers of the same hand.

[0169] In the example shown in Figure 6, the user can press the first operating section 53 downwards while gripping the first lateral operating section 11a and the second lateral operating section 11b. In this case, it is easy to change the state of the folding rack 1 from the first folded state S1 (see Figure 6) to the second folded state S2 (see Figure 7).

[0170] In the example shown in Figure 6, when the first lateral operating section 11a and the second lateral operating section 11b are pulled upward, the upper ends of the first lateral operating section 11a and the second lateral operating section 11b are located at the highest position within the folding rack 1.

[0171] In the example shown in Figure 6, the first lateral operating section 11a is attached to the first lateral slide frame 33a. Preferably, the first lateral operating section 11a is attached to the first lateral slide frame 33a so as to be rotatable around the first axis AN1. In the example shown in Figure 6, the first axis AN1 is located directly below (in other words, vertically below) the first operating section 53.

[0172] Preferably, in the default state, most of the first lateral operating section 11a hangs down below the first axis AN1, and by pulling the first lateral operating section 11a upward, most of the first lateral operating section 11a can be raised above the first axis AN1.

[0173] In the example shown in Figure 23, the first lateral operating section 11a is positioned on the second direction DR2 side of the first shelf 41. In the example shown in Figure 23, in a plan view, the first lateral operating section 11a is positioned on the extension of the boundary line LN1 between the front plate 411 and the rear plate 413 of the first shelf 41.

[0174] (Second side operation section 11b) In the example shown in Figure 16, both the second operating section 63 and the operating section 11 (more specifically, the second lateral operating section 11b) can be operated simultaneously with one hand. In the example shown in Figure 16, the distance between the second operating section 63 and the second lateral operating section 11b is 10 cm or less.

[0175] In the example shown in Figure 16, the second operating section 63 can be pressed downward with one hand while the second lateral operating section 11b is supported with the same hand. More specifically, the second operating section 63 can be pressed downward with the thumb of one hand while the second lateral operating section 11b is supported with the index, middle, and ring fingers of the same hand.

[0176] In the example shown in Figure 16, the user can press the second operating section 63 downward while gripping the first lateral operating section 11a and the second lateral operating section 11b. In this case, it is easy to change the state of the folding rack 1 from the first folded state S1 (see Figure 16) to the unfolded state S0 (see Figure 17). In the example shown in Figure 4, the user can press the second operating section 63 downward while gripping the first lateral operating section 11a and the second lateral operating section 11b. In this case, it is easy to change the state of the folding rack 1 from the unfolded state S0 (see Figure 4) to the first folded state S1 (see Figure 5).

[0177] In the example shown in Figure 16, the second lateral operating section 11b is attached to the second lateral slide frame 33b. Preferably, the second lateral operating section 11b is attached to the second lateral slide frame 33b so that it can rotate around the second axis AN2. In the example shown in Figure 16, the second axis AN2 is located directly below (in other words, vertically below) the second operating section 63.

[0178] Preferably, in the default state, most of the second lateral operating section 11b hangs down below the second axis AN2, and by pulling the second lateral operating section 11b upward, most of the second lateral operating section 11b can be raised above the second axis AN2.

[0179] In the example shown in Figure 23, the second lateral operating section 11b is positioned on the first direction DR1 side of the first shelf 41. In the example shown in Figure 23, in a plan view, the second lateral operating section 11b is positioned on the extension of the boundary line LN1 between the front plate 411 and the rear plate 413 of the first shelf 41.

[0180] (Shelf board size 4) Referring to Figure 24, an example of the size of the shelf board 4 will be described. The width W1 of the first shelf board 41 is, for example, 40 cm or more and 120 cm or less, or 45 cm or more and 100 cm or less, or 50 cm or more and 80 cm or less. The depth D1 of the first shelf board 41 is smaller than the width W1 of the first shelf board 41. The depth D1 of the first shelf board 41 is, for example, 30 cm or more and 90 cm or less, 35 cm or more and 75 cm or less, or 40 cm or more and 60 cm or less. The size of the second shelf board 42 may be the same as the size of the first shelf board 41, or it may be different from the size of the first shelf board 41. The size of the third shelf board 43 may be the same as the size of the first shelf board 41, or it may be different from the size of the first shelf board 41.

[0181] (Height dimension H1 of folding rack 1) Referring to Figure 24, an example of the height dimension H1 of the folding rack 1 will be described. In the unfolded state S0, the height dimension H1 of the folding rack 1 is, for example, 60 cm to 120 cm, 70 cm to 110 cm, or 80 cm to 100 cm.

[0182] The height dimension of the folding rack 1 in the second folded state S2 (see Figure 8(c)) is greater than the height dimension H1 of the folding rack 1 in the unfolded state S0. The height dimension of the folding rack 1 in the second folded state S2 may be 15 cm or more greater than the height dimension H1 of the folding rack 1 in the unfolded state S0, and may also be 20 cm or more greater.

[0183] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and it is clear that the embodiments can be modified or changed as appropriate within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, any additional configurations in the embodiments can be omitted as appropriate.

[0184] For example, in the example shown in Figure 8, the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, is a shelf board that can be folded in half at the middle. Alternatively, the shelf board 4, such as the first shelf board 41, may be a shelf board that cannot be folded in half. For example, the entire first shelf board 41 may be configured to tilt relative to the main body 3, thereby folding the first shelf board 41 relative to the main body 3. In this case, one of the front frame component 31f and the rear frame component 31r may function as a support frame, and the other of the front frame component 31f and the rear frame component 31r may function as a slide frame that can move vertically relative to the support frame. [Explanation of symbols]

[0185] 1: Foldable rack 2: Wheels 2a: 1st wheel 2b: 2nd wheel 2c: 3rd wheel 2d: 4th wheel 3: Main body 4: Shelf board 11:Operation section 11a: First side operation section 11b:Second side operation section 21b: Switching member 21c: Switching component 30: Frame 31: Support frame 31f: Front frame parts 31r: Rear frame part 33: Slide frame 33a: First lateral slide frame 33b: Second lateral slide frame 33h: Through hole part 33k: 2nd through hole part 37: Connecting member 38: Slider 38a: First slider 38b: Second slider 41: First shelf 41f: Front end 41m: Middle part 41r: Rear end 42: Second shelf 42f: Front end 42m: Middle section 42r: Rear end 43: Third shelf 43f: Front end 43m: Middle part 43r: Rear end 50: Excessive folding prevention member 53: 1st operation section 53B: First button 54: First movable arm 54h: Inclined hole 54k: Long hole 55: First biasing member 55s: Coil spring 56: First fixed arm 60: Locking component 63:Second operation section 63B: Second button 64: Second movable arm 64h: 2nd inclined hole 64k: 2nd long hole 65: Second biasing member 65s: Coil spring 66: Second fixed arm 311: Support section 311a: 1st pillar part 311b: 2nd pillar part 311c: 3rd pillar part 311d: 4th pillar part 312f: First horizontal bar section 312r: Second horizontal bar section 371: 1st connecting rod 372:Second connecting rod 373:Third connecting rod 374: 4th connecting rod 411: Front panel 413: Rear board 500: First protruding member 500f: First hook 500u:Top surface 540: First Link Arm 600: Second protruding member 600f: Second hook 600u:Top surface 600w: bottom side 640: Second link arm AN1: First axis AN2: 2nd axis AT1: Second drive axle AT2: 2nd tilting axis AX1: Rotary shaft AX2:Tilt axis DR1: 1st direction DR2: 2nd direction LN1 : Border line M1: First operating force transmission mechanism M2: 2nd operating force transmission mechanism P1:Advance position P2: Evacuation position P3: 2nd advance position P4: 2nd evacuation position PL1: 1st plane PL2: 2nd plane PL3: 3rd plane PL4: 4th plane PN1: First pin member PN2: Second pin member PN3: Third pin member PN4: Fourth pin member PN5: Fifth pin member S0: Expanded state S1: First folded state S2: Second folding state U1: Unit 1 U2: Unit 2

Claims

1. Multiple wheels, The main body is supported by the aforementioned multiple wheels, The first shelf is supported by the main body, An over-folding prevention member that prevents the first shelf from being folded excessively, It is equipped with, The state of the first shelf can be changed from the unfolded state to the first folded state. After the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member is disabled, the state of the first shelf can be changed from the first folded state to the second folded state. The second folded state is a state in which the first shelf is folded even further compared to the first folded state. When the first shelf is in the first folded state, the main body can be maintained in a self-supporting upright position. Foldable rack.

2. The device includes a first operating unit for disabling the over-folding prevention function provided by the over-folding prevention member. The foldable rack according to claim 1.

3. A locking member that prevents the first shelf from returning from the first folded state to the unfolded state, A second operating unit releases the lock by the locking member so that the state of the first shelf can be returned from the first folded state to the unfolded state. Equipped with The foldable rack according to claim 2.

4. The second operating part is a button, The release of the lock and at least a portion of the transition from the first folded state to the unfolded state can be performed by pressing the button. The foldable rack according to claim 3.

5. The lock can be released and the state can be changed from the first folded state to the unfolded state with just one action of pressing the aforementioned button downwards. The foldable rack according to claim 4.

6. The direction in which the operating force is applied to disable the over-folding prevention function of the over-folding prevention member is opposite to the direction in which the operating force is applied to change the state of the first shelf from the first folded state to the second folded state. A foldable rack according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. It is equipped with an operating mechanism for lifting a portion of the first shelf upwards, By pressing the second operating part and pulling the operating part upward, the state of the first shelf can be changed from the unfolded state to the first folded state. The foldable rack according to claim 3.

8. In a plan view, the first shelf is positioned between the first operating section and the second operating section. A foldable rack according to any one of claims 3 to 5.

9. The primary color of the outer surface of the first operating section is the first color. The main color of the outer surface of the second operating section is a second color, which is different from the first color. A foldable rack according to any one of claims 3 to 5.

10. It is equipped with a first lateral operating section for lifting a portion of the first shelf upward, The first lateral operating section is mounted on the slide frame of the main body so as to be rotatable around the first axis. Most of the first lateral operating section hangs down below the first axis in the default state. By pulling the first lateral operating section upward, the majority of the first lateral operating section can be raised above the first axis. A foldable rack according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

11. The aforementioned plurality of wheels include a first wheel and a second wheel, When the first shelf is in the unfolded state, the distance between the center of the first wheel and the center of the second wheel is defined as distance L0; when the first shelf is in the first folded state, the distance between the center of the first wheel and the center of the second wheel is defined as distance L1; and when the first shelf is in the second folded state, the distance between the center of the first wheel and the center of the second wheel is defined as distance L2. Then, distance L1 is smaller than distance L0, and distance L2 is smaller than distance L1. A foldable rack according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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