Item of furniture with reversible panel

Abstract

The invention relates to an item of furniture, which in particular can be a table (1). The item of furniture comprises a panel (1.1) having a first panel main surface (1.1.1), a second panel main surface (1.1.2) opposite the first panel main surface (1.1.1), and two panel supports (1.2). The panel (1.1) extends between the panel supports (1.2) along a panel rotational axis (PA). The panel (1.1) is rotatably connected to the panel supports (1.2) about the panel rotational axis (PA). The rotational axis of the panel extends between the first panel main surface (1.1.1) and the second panel main surface (1.1.2). The panel supports (1.2) each have a fastening structure for mounting the item of furniture on a mounting base. A support height of the panel supports (1.2) between the panel rotational axis (PA) and the fastening structures can be changed. The support height is minimal in a stowed configuration.

Description

[0001] FURNITURE WITH REVERSIBLE TOP

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a piece of furniture. The piece of furniture can, in particular, be a table. The disclosure further relates to a vehicle having a piece of furniture according to the disclosure. The piece of furniture can, in particular, be a table. The vehicle can, in particular, be a land or water vehicle. The invention further relates to the use of a piece of furniture according to the disclosure, alternatively as furniture or as part of a usable floor area, in particular a loading and / or step surface.

[0004] BACKGROUND AND GENERAL PRESENTATION OF REVELATION

[0005] Arranging and assembling furniture in confined spaces presents a particular challenge and generally requires a number of compromises. This applies, for example, to the assembly of furniture inside land vehicles such as mobile homes, caravans, or camper vans, as well as watercraft, particularly motor and / or sailing yachts. The challenge and the compromises that must be made increase with the size or bulkiness of the furniture and are particularly pronounced for tables with their comparatively large space requirements. A further problem arises when vehicle-mounted furniture is not intended to be used permanently as such. In this case, it is advantageous if the space taken up by a piece of furniture when not in use can be reduced or if the furniture can be stored as space-savingly as possible.The effort required to switch between storage and use should be kept as low as possible. Furniture that can be folded and thus stored relatively space-savingly, especially tables and chairs, is well known from the prior art. Various designs for vehicle-mounted furniture are also known from the prior art. For example, DE102004004166A1 discloses a passenger car with a seating arrangement and a table that, when not in use, is housed in a recess in the vehicle's cargo area floor and can be adjusted from there into a use position. The legs are foldable and can be locked for use according to the principle of a beer bench. DE10200881 A1 discloses a folding table for a motor vehicle that, when not in use, can be stowed like a drawer in a receptacle formed in an interior furniture part.GB190915639A discloses a vehicle-mounted table with a tabletop supported by a scissor-lift mechanism. When not in use, the tabletop can be lowered by retracting the scissors, so that the tabletop forms part of a vehicle floor in this state. The table has a central section and outwardly foldable wings, which fold onto the central section when not in use, thus reducing the space required. CN1 12937414A discloses a vehicle-mounted piece of furniture that can be rotated about a horizontal axis and thus used alternatively as a table or bed.

[0006] The disadvantage of a table according to DE10200881 A1 is that when not in use or when the seating is lowered, the vehicle's loading area can generally be used. However, without further measures such as an additional cover, the furniture areas forming part of the loading area are exposed to considerable stress and the risk of soiling and damage. Furthermore, there is no option for height adjustment and the possible height with sufficient stability is limited. With the solution according to GB190915639A, the table surface used as a table is protected when not in use thanks to the folding wings. However, a table with fold-out wings is not ideal for some applications, such as as a desk or conference table. Furthermore, the possible table size while taking into account acceptably simple and comfortable handling is limited.Likewise, the arrangement with a central section and folding wings requires a relatively large amount of vertical space when not in use.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to further develop the state of the art regarding vehicle-mounted furniture and, in general, furniture for installation in confined spaces. Preferably, one or more disadvantages known from the prior art are partially or completely avoided.

[0008] As explained below, a piece of furniture according to the invention allows, in particular, the use of the interior of a vehicle, such as a van or panel van of a known type, as a mobile office, including the possibility of holding meetings. When not in use, the interior remains fully available as loading or storage space in the usual way, whereby the attractiveness and aesthetics of the furniture are not diminished even by frequent use as loading or storage space and / or as a step.

[0009] The problem is solved in general terms by a piece of furniture according to claim 1 and a vehicle according to claim 14. Specific advantageous embodiments and further developments are defined by the dependent claims and the description as a whole, as are further components and furniture elements that can be advantageously used together with and complement a piece of furniture according to the claims. According to one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a piece of furniture according to claim 1. The piece of furniture can in particular be a table or other piece of furniture, in particular of a fundamentally table-like shape. The piece of furniture has a panel with a first panel main surface and a second panel main surface opposite the first panel main surface.

[0010] The first and second main plate surfaces are arranged at a distance from one another and are generally flat or substantially flat and structured. Typically, the first and second main plate surfaces are parallel to one another, with the distance between the main plate surfaces being determined by a plate thickness. The main plate surfaces typically each have an identical contour and are typically congruent to one another. A circumferentially closed plate end surface runs between the main plate surfaces and connects the main plate surfaces. The term contour here refers to the outline of a surface or a flat object, in particular of the plate, when viewed transversely to, in particular perpendicular to, the surface.

[0011] The piece of furniture further comprises two panel supports, wherein the panel extends between the panel supports along a panel rotation axis, and the panel is connected to the panel supports so as to be rotatable about the panel rotation axis. The panel supports are assumed to be stationary, meaning they do not change their position and orientation when the panel rotates. The panel rotation axis runs between the first and second main panel surfaces. The panel rotation axis intersects the contour or border of the first and second main panel surfaces.

[0012] In a typical embodiment, which is generally assumed below, the orientation of the first and second main surfaces of the panel can be swapped by rotating the panel. This implies that the panel can be rotated by at least 180 degrees. However, this is not mandatory, as explained further below. The panel supports each have a fastening structure for mounting the furniture to a mounting base. A support height of the panel supports is variable and minimal in a stowed configuration. The support height can, in particular, define a distance between the panel rotation axis and the fastening structures. As explained further below, the mounting base is typically, but not necessarily, part of a vehicle.

[0013] To ensure the plate can be pivoted, pivot hinges can be provided at the interfaces between the plate and the plate supports, or the plate and the plate supports can be connected via pivot hinges. The hinge axes of the pivot hinges are coaxial with the plate rotation axis.

[0014] When the furniture is used, particularly as a table as explained below, or in a usage configuration, the plate supports serve as a frame that holds the plate, similar to table legs, at a suitable distance above the mounting base for use. In the usage configuration, the plate supports typically run at least approximately vertically, or between "top" and "bottom," with the support height corresponding to the height of the plate above the mounting base. In the usage configuration, or with a non-minimal support height, the plate rotation axis of each plate support runs in the region of an upper support end. The fastening structure is arranged at the opposite lower support end. The plate supports typically run parallel to each other and are spaced apart by the plate.

[0015] With regard to the plate rotation axis, the plate runs completely between the plate supports. In this way, the plate can be rotated about the plate rotation axis without colliding with the plate supports. In one design variant, the plate can be rotated as desired without stops, but this is not mandatory. Generally, the plate can be rotated by at least 180 degrees. The position of the plate in the use configuration and the stowed configuration is typically parallel to one another and typically at least approximately horizontal, so that one of the plate's main surfaces points upwards and the other plate's main surface downwards, or one of the plate's main surfaces is arranged above the other. The orientation of the plate's main surfaces can essentially be understood as the orientation of a normal vector pointing away from the respective plate's main surface.

[0016] By rotating the plate around the plate rotation axis, you can choose which of the plate's main surfaces is on top and which is on the bottom, or the top and bottom of the plate can be interchanged.

[0017] A rotation of the table top by 180 degrees between the storage configuration and the use configuration is typical for a table, but not mandatory. For example, the table top can be designed to rotate by slightly less or more than 180 degrees. This allows the table top to be tilted in the use configuration. A rotation of less than 180 degrees, for example, can be additionally provided, or the rotation of the table top can be structurally limited to less than 180 degrees. Alternatively or additionally, a rotation of the table top by 90 degrees, thus allowing it to be positioned vertically, can be provided. This is advantageous, for example, for using the furniture as a projection surface or as a screen for a projector, as a whiteboard, pinboard, or similar.

[0018] The fact that the plate rotation axis runs between the first and second main plate surfaces implies that the plate rotation axis runs through the volume bounded by the main plate surfaces and the plate end surface. The plate rotation axis intersects the plate end surface. Such a piece of furniture according to the disclosure has particular advantages with regard to its arrangement and assembly in confined spaces, such as in a vehicle, and is particularly advantageous when the furniture is only needed temporarily, for example as a table. The advantages are essentially achieved through the interaction of the adjustable support height and the rotatable plate.

[0019] The adjustable support height means that the furniture can be stowed away, particularly with minimal or ideally practically no additional space required, for example in the floor area of ​​a vehicle. The panel is rotated about the panel rotation axis so that one of the first and second main panel surfaces faces upwards. The second panel main surface is used as an example below. In the stowed configuration, this can be part of a usable floor, such as a loading area. The opposite first main panel surface faces downwards in the stowed configuration. It is not directly accessible and is therefore protected. To use the furniture, for example as a table, the support height can be increased from the stowed configuration and the panel rotated about the panel rotation axis so that the first main panel surface now faces upwards and is available as a table surface.The signs of wear that typically arise from use, such as scratches, surface damage, discoloration, etc., typically cause the second main surface to become unsightly over time. However, this is irrelevant for use as a table, since the second main surface faces downwards, or rather, represents the underside, which is invisible to the viewer.

[0020] The piece of furniture can be permanently or firmly mounted using the fastening structures, but can of course also be removably or detachably mounted by a user. This additionally enables use as a mobile table, for example, even outside a vehicle. In one embodiment, the plate rotation axis runs, in a view transverse to the first and second main plate surfaces, through a center, in particular through a center of gravity, of the first and second main plate surfaces. "Transverse" in this document refers to perpendicular or at least approximately perpendicular. Such a course of the plate rotation axis has the advantage that the plate is balanced with respect to the rotation axis, especially when horizontally aligned. At least in the unloaded state of the plate, there is no torque acting around the plate rotation axis that would have to be absorbed or absorbed by the plate's bearings.The plate rotation axis can also run exactly or approximately through the plate's center of mass.

[0021] In one embodiment, the plate rotation axis runs centrally between the first and second plate main surfaces in a view along the plate rotation axis.

[0022] In one embodiment, the first and second main plate surfaces have a rectangular contour and each have two parallel long plate sides and short plate sides. The plate end face here accordingly has four rectangular end face segments separated by edges. In a special embodiment with rectangular main plate surfaces, the plate rotation axis runs parallel to and centrally between the long plate sides. The short plate sides are accordingly intersected or halved centrally by the plate rotation axis. Such a configuration is advantageous with regard to arrangement, for example, in the interior of a vehicle. In particular, the arrangement can be such that the long plate sides and the plate rotation axis are aligned with the vehicle's longitudinal axis or run parallel to it, which is advantageous for good use of space.Furthermore, space is required to rotate the panel both downwards and upwards (e.g., toward a ceiling of the vehicle interior). In the design described here, the required space in both directions corresponds to only half the length of one of the panel's short sides.

[0023] In such a configuration with a plate rotation axis running centrally between the plate main surfaces, the first and second plate main surfaces are also swapped in position when the plate is rotated by 180 degrees. Thus, after the rotation, the second plate main surface assumes the position previously occupied by the first plate main surface, and vice versa.

[0024] In further embodiments, the plate has a different, non-rectangular contour of the main plate surfaces and / or the plate rotation axis runs differently. The main plate surfaces can, in particular, have a square, circular, oval, or elliptical contour. Furthermore, the plate rotation axis can run slightly off-center.

[0025] In one embodiment, the plate can be releasably locked relative to the plate's rotation axis. For locking, a releasable force-locking and / or positive-locking connection can be provided between the plate and the plate support. For this purpose, one or more movable latches, clamping devices, or similar devices can be provided, as is generally known. Preferably, a connection between the plate and both plate supports is provided.

[0026] In one embodiment, the support height is releasably fixable. Such a releasable fixation allows the furniture to be fixed in the usage configuration at different distances or heights above the mounting base, thus adapting it to different usage situations and / or individual preferences, for example for use as a coffee table (low height), a desk or conference table (medium height), or a standing table (high height). Depending on the design of the tabletop supports, clamping and / or locking devices can be provided for fixing, as is generally known from the prior art. The releasable fixation can be in steps, in particular with a latching action, and / or continuously variable. In an embodiment with spring and / or damper devices as described below, these can be fixable or lockable.

[0027] In principle, the support height can be fixed at any height from the storage configuration onwards, or it should be possible, but there may also be a minimum support height for the usage configuration. With a low height, for example for use as a coffee table, the available space below may not be sufficient to allow the tabletop to be rotated. In this case, the tabletop can be rotated at a higher support height than the subsequent use. The same applies analogously if a high desired height, for example as a standing table, is limited above the tabletop. In this case, the tabletop can be rotated at a lower support height than the subsequent use.

[0028] In one embodiment, the panel supports each comprise a scissor-lift mechanism. Scissor lifts for height-adjustable positioning and storage of panels, assembly platforms, machines, etc. are well known in the art in various designs and sizes. In the present application, scissor-lift mechanisms are particularly interesting due to their compactness. A particularly advantageous feature is the low minimum height required in the stowed configuration. In the intended application, this is typically a few centimeters. A scissor-lift mechanism has a fundamentally simple and robust construction and possesses high stability and load-bearing capacity. The extension length, which determines the support height, is variable within wide limits. In a scissor-lift mechanism, the design dictates that the extension transverse to the extension direction (hereinafter also referred to as the scissor width) changes depending on the extension.Therefore, translation devices are provided at the ends of the lifting scissor mechanisms, which may in particular comprise sliders, carriages and / or rollers which are guided in a linearly movable manner.

[0029] On the side facing the mounting base, the base-side translation devices form the fastening structure or part of the fastening structure and advantageously run in corresponding base-side longitudinal guides provided on the mounting base, such as rails or grooves. The furniture can include the base-side longitudinal guides, in particular as part of the fastening structures. Likewise, the base-side longitudinal guides can be part of the mounting base or firmly connected to it.

[0030] On the opposite side, away from the mounting base, to which the plate is attached, the plate supports can each have a plate connector. Similar to the mounting base, each plate connector can have a longitudinal guide, for example in the form of a rail or a groove, in particular a T-slot, in which the plate-side translation devices are guided linearly. The plate connectors are advantageously elongated and extend transversely to the support height and transversely to the plate rotation axis. The rotatable fastening of the plate, for example via rotary hinges as mentioned above, is achieved by means of the plate connectors. The plate connectors thus serve as transition or intermediate pieces via which the plate is connected to the lifting scissor mechanisms. Typically, the length of the plate connectors corresponds to the length of a plate side facing them.For a rectangular plate, where the plate rotation axis runs centrally through the plate's short sides as described above, the length of the plate connectors can, in particular, correspond to the plate's short sides. The plate connectors can each represent an end extension of the plate along the plate rotation axis. In further embodiments, the plate supports do not comprise lifting scissor mechanisms, but rather a plurality of rod- or bar-shaped segments. These can be telescopic to adjust the support height or can be articulated at their ends according to the principle of a folding rule.

[0031] In a typical embodiment, the plate supports are designed for manual adjustment of the support height using muscle power. In other embodiments, a separate drive, particularly a motor drive, is provided for this purpose, alternatively or additionally. In a preferred embodiment, the plate is also rotated manually, but a motor drive can also be provided.

[0032] Advantageously, the plate supports allow the plate height to be changed without rotating or tilting the plate, in particular in a pure translational movement in the direction determined by the support height, particularly in the vertical direction. Accordingly, the plate is displaced parallel when the support height changes. Such a design has the advantage that adjusting or changing the height, especially in the usage configuration, does not require prior removal of objects located or placed on the plate. This is particularly true for plate supports with a scissor-lift mechanism.

[0033] In one embodiment, the panel supports each comprise a spring and / or damper device (spring / damper device). The spring / damper device can be configured to counteract the weight of the panel and any objects located on it, as well as to minimize or eliminate shocks and jolts during panel movement or when the extension height changes. Spring / damper devices can advantageously be designed, in particular, as gas pressure springs, such as those known for holding doors and flaps, for example, upward-opening tailgates. Such a gas pressure spring can, for example, be attached at one of its ends to a scissor segment of a scissor-lift mechanism and at its other end to the mounting base in a generally known manner.A spring-damper device can be designed to compensate for the weight of the plate, so that the plate essentially maintains its distance from the mounting base even without additional fixation. As mentioned, a spring and / or damper device can be lockable in length. One or more spring-damper devices can be provided, in particular one for each plate carrier or lifting scissor mechanism.

[0034] In one embodiment, the piece of furniture comprises one or more handle devices. Handle devices can be recessed into the panel from one or both main panel surfaces. Other types of attachment are possible. Handle devices are in particular arranged such that they allow the exertion of a tensile force along the direction of the support height, i.e. typically in the vertical direction, and in particular upwards. Furthermore, the handle devices are preferably designed for gripping and pulling by hand. Handle devices are used in particular for gripping to increase the support height, in particular when changing from the stowed configuration to the use configuration. For this purpose, handle devices are in particular arranged on the second main panel surface or recessed into the panel from the second main panel surface. The handle elements are preferably recessed flush with the panel.A handle element can, for example, in a basically known manner, comprise a pivoting handle bar arranged in a recess. The flush arrangement ensures that in the stowed configuration or when the second main surface of the panel faces upwards, the handle elements are visible but do not protrude in a disruptive manner. When the first main surface of the panel faces upwards, the handle elements are located on the underside of the panel without causing any disruption. In one embodiment, the first and second main surfaces of the panel have different designs. The different designs can, in particular, comprise different materials. A different design of the main surfaces is advantageous with regard to adaptation for different uses and stresses of the panel, in particular in the stowed configuration on the one hand and the usage configuration on the other.

[0035] In a specific embodiment, the first main surface of the panel is designed as a work surface, and the second main surface is designed as a step and / or loading surface. The work surface can, in particular, be a desk surface and / or a coffee table surface. The work surface is advantageously visually and haptically appealing, but relatively delicate. At least one first cover layer of the panel, which encompasses the first main surface as a surface, can consist of a material typical for desks, coffee tables, and the like, such as a wood veneer. The first main surface of the panel typically faces upward in the usage configuration.

[0036] The step and / or loading area as the second main panel surface is advantageously robust and resilient. For this purpose, at least one second cover layer of the panel comprising the second main panel surface as a surface can be made of a typical material such as synthetic felt, rubber, metal, in particular sheet metal, or a robust plastic, parquet, or high- or medium-density wood panels. The floor surface or loading area can advantageously be walked on by people without damage and / or is suitable for storing objects such as luggage. The second cover layer is advantageously made of the same material as a usable floor area surrounding it in the stowed configuration. The panel is typically constructed as a sandwich with several typically plane-parallel layers, with the first and second cover layers representing the outermost layers.Between these two cores, there can be a single- or multi-part core with a structure and materials generally familiar from furniture construction, such as plywood, chipboard, glued strips, plastic, or solid wood. The core can also be designed as a lightweight or hollow construction of a generally familiar type. Typically, the core makes up the largest part of the panel thickness between the first and second main panel surfaces.

[0037] In one embodiment, the plate comprises at least one magnetic element, preferably a number of magnetic elements. The magnetic element or elements are preferably permanently magnetic and preferably planar, in particular plate-, disc-, or strip-shaped. Magnetic elements can be embedded into the plate from one or both main plate surfaces, in particular from the first main plate surface, so that their surfaces represent a visible part of the respective main plate surface. Alternatively or additionally, magnetic elements can be arranged beneath a cover layer as described above and thus be optically invisible.Magnetic elements arranged in this way can be advantageously used to hold objects made of ferromagnetic material, such as iron, or at least with a sufficient ferromagnetic content, on the plate with sufficient magnetic holding force to ensure that they maintain their position during a change in support height or a slow movement of the furniture including the mounting base, and do not slip or fall off. Objects that can be advantageously held in this way include devices such as laptop computers or monitors.

[0038] In one embodiment, the plate supports are arranged in the stowed configuration, viewed along the plate rotation axis, at least largely between the first and second main plate surfaces. With such a configuration, the plate supports take up little or no additional height in addition to the plate, which is particularly advantageous for stowing. Such an arrangement can be easily implemented, for example, using plate supports with a scissor-lift mechanism as described.

[0039] In one embodiment, the extension of the furniture in a viewing direction along the panel's rotation axis in the stowed configuration is ideally no greater than 60 mm, preferably no greater than 45 mm. Such a design allows for storage, for example, in the area of ​​the usable floor of a vehicle, with little or no height requirement. The available free height in the interior of a vehicle or in other height-restricted spaces is thus not or only slightly restricted.

[0040] The arrangement of the panel between the panel supports as described ensures that the panel can be rotated without colliding with the panel supports. However, the panel supports, in particular panel connectors as described above, are not rotated and are always visible without further measures. In the stowed configuration, they also form part of the usable floor and are subject to corresponding stress and wear. In one embodiment, the furniture item comprises an associated cover element for each panel support, or the panel supports each comprise a cover element. The cover elements each extend transversely to the panel rotation axis. The cover elements are typically rod- or strip-shaped and have a length corresponding to a panel side facing the panel supports.In the case of a rectangular panel as described above, the length of the cover elements can in particular correspond to the length of a short side of the panel or the panel width, or in the case of a square panel, to the side length of the square. The cover elements can, for example, have a rectangular cross-section. The cover elements each have a first cover element main surface and a second cover element main surface opposite the first cover element main surface. The first cover element main surface advantageously corresponds to the first panel main surface in terms of appearance, feel, and material properties. Likewise, the second cover element main surface disadvantageously corresponds to the second panel main surface in terms of appearance, feel, and material properties. In particular, the cover elements can each comprise a first and second cover layer, each consisting of the same material as a respective cover layer of the panel, for exampleWood veneer for the first cover layer as mentioned above. In a top view, the panel supports, especially the lifting scissors as described, and the panel connectors are located under the cover elements.

[0041] The cover elements are configured such that the orientation of the first cover element main surface and the second cover element main surface can be interchanged. When the furniture is in the stowed configuration or when the second panel main surface serves as part of a step and / or loading area, the cover elements are arranged such that their second cover element main surface is in a plane with the second panel main surface. In the use configuration or when the first panel main surface serves as a table surface, the first cover element main surface lies in a plane with the first panel main surface. Advantageously, the cover elements adjoin the panel without any gaps or at least almost without any gaps in both the stowed configuration and the use configuration.Thus, in the stowed configuration, the second main panel surface is continued on both sides by the second cover element main surface along the panel rotation axis. Similarly, in the use configuration, the first main panel surface is continued on both sides by the first cover element main surface along the panel rotation axis.

[0042] The cover elements can generally be structurally separated from other components of the

[0043] Tables can be separate elements. In the storage configuration of the furniture, the cover elements are arranged with the second cover element main surface facing upwards, so that the second cover element main surfaces each form a continuation of the second panel main surface. During the change to the usage configuration, the cover elements are flipped over so that the first cover element main surfaces now face upwards and form a continuation of the first panel main surface. In a version with panel connectors as described, the cover elements can be easily and detachably placed onto the panel connectors.Optionally, to prevent unwanted movement, such as slipping, of the cover elements, for example, magnetic holding means or a detachable form-fitting connection with the plate or the plate connectors, for example by detachable pinning, can be provided, or the cover elements can be detachably held magnetically to the plate connectors.

[0044] In a special embodiment, the cover elements are movably attached to the plate supports. In particular, the cover elements can each be connected to an associated plate connector so that they can pivot about a cover element pivot axis and slide along a cover element displacement axis. The cover element pivot axes can run perpendicular to the plate rotation axis, and the cover element displacement axes can run parallel to the plate rotation axis. The displacement path corresponds at least to the extent of the cover elements along the plate rotation axis. For this purpose, a displacement and pivoting mechanism can be provided, as described below.Each plate carrier can have at least one linear guide with a guide rail and a carriage that can be moved linearly in the guide rail, wherein the axis of the linear guide corresponds to a cover element displacement axis. The rails can each be arranged on the upper sides of the plate connectors. The cover elements can be rotatable or pivotably attached to the slider about the respective cover element pivot axis. In this way, the cover elements can each be moved away from the plate along the plate rotation axis and then pivoted 180 degrees towards the plate. After pivoting, the position and orientation of the first and second cover element main surfaces are swapped, with the cover elements once again adjoining the plate. To ensure collision-free displacement of the cover elements, the linear guides are arranged offset, in particular above the plate rotation axis.Other designs of a sliding and pivoting mechanism are also possible.

[0045] In one embodiment, the fastening structures are designed for mounting on a vehicle part, in particular a chassis and / or body part (chassis-Z body part). In panel supports with a scissor-lift mechanism, translation devices such as rollers as described above can be provided for this purpose, for example, running in base-side longitudinal guides, in particular rails. The base-side longitudinal guides can be permanently mounted to a chassis-Z body part supporting them in a generally known manner, for example by screwing, welding, riveting, gluing, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the base-side longitudinal guides can be detachably mounted by a user in a generally known manner. In this case, the furniture, including the base-side longitudinal guides, is designed for use outside the vehicle. Furthermore, the base-side longitudinal guides can be an integral part of the chassis-Z body part.The chassis Z-body part can in particular be part of a vehicle floor.

[0046] In one embodiment, the lifting scissor mechanism comprises a first pair of scissor segments centrally connected to form a first scissor cross. The lifting scissor mechanism can further comprise a second pair of scissor segments centrally connected to form a second scissor cross. The first scissor cross and the second scissor cross can be arranged adjacent to one another. The first scissor cross can be arranged closer to the center of the furniture than the second scissor cross. A scissor segment of the first pair of scissor segments that is arranged closest to the center of the furniture can form a first outer scissor segment. A scissor segment of the second pair of scissor segments that is farthest from the center of the furniture can form a second outer scissor segment.Scissor segments of the first pair of scissor segments and the second pair of scissor segments, which are arranged between the outer scissor segments, can each form an inner scissor segment. The first outer scissor segment and the second outer scissor segment are preferably connected at a free end. The inner scissor segments are preferably connected at a free end.

[0047] To accommodate height-adjustable positioning, the inner scissor segments can be offset from the outer scissor segments, particularly in the direction of the panel's rotation axis. This allows for a more stable and easier transition between the stowed and used configurations.

[0048] In the stowed configuration, the scissor segments of the first pair of scissor segments and the second pair of scissor segments are arranged parallel, in particular parallel to the plate rotation axis. The described arrangement of the scissor segments thus allows the lifting scissor mechanism to be lowered to a minimum height corresponding to the vertical transverse extension of the scissor segments.

[0049] The support height can be varied depending on the number of scissor crosses. For example, a higher adjustment can be achieved with three scissor crosses than with two. In one embodiment, the plate supports are connected by a support connector. Preferably, a scissor segment of one plate support can be connected to a scissor segment of an opposite plate support. For example, the first outer scissor segment of the lifting scissor mechanism can be connected via the support connector to a first outer scissor segment of the opposite lifting scissor mechanism. Depending on the application, a free end of one or more gas pressure springs can be articulated to the support connector. The opposite free end of the one or more gas pressure springs can be attached to the mounting base. The plate connector enables the plate supports to be held together more securely.

[0050] Preferably, the plate can have a recess on a side facing the mounting base. In the stowed configuration, the first pair of scissor segments and the second pair of scissor segments can be arranged in the recess. The recess in the plate can be formed from one or more individual recesses. The recess offers the advantage of more compact stowage of the plate supports.

[0051] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure relates to a vehicle. For example, the vehicle can be, in particular, a land vehicle, such as a motor vehicle or a trailer, or also a watercraft. In the present document, the example generally assumes a motor vehicle in the form of a conventional closed transporter, van, or panel van with an exemplary permissible total weight of 3.5 t, although truck bodies / containers with a total weight including the carrier vehicle of over 3.5 t are also possible. Such transporters are well known, for example, from the fields of freight forwarding and logistics. However, the vehicle can also be another motor vehicle, such as a mobile home or a caravan. As a watercraft, the vehicle can, in particular, be a sailing and / or motor yacht.

[0052] The vehicle has a main floor with a main floor surface. The main floor has a panel receiving recess, which opens into the main floor surface via a panel receiving opening.

[0053] A piece of furniture according to the disclosure is mounted on a vehicle part such that, in the stowed configuration, the panel is positioned in the panel-receiving recess, wherein one of the main panel surfaces and at least a surrounding region of the main usable floor surface lie in a plane and form a usable floor surface. The vehicle part can, in particular, be a chassis Z-body part. In the use configuration, the panel is spaced from the main usable floor by the panel supports and, in particular, held above the main usable floor surface.

[0054] The second main panel surface is assumed to be the main panel surface that forms part of the usable floor area in the stowage configuration, which can be designed as a loading area and / or floor area as described.

[0055] The plate receiving opening and the furniture are generally congruent or coincident or approximately coincident in a top view and have an identical or approximately identical contour, so that the plate receiving opening is at least largely filled by the plate in the stowed configuration, although a slight gap may remain.

[0056] In the use configuration, the panel is located above the panel receiving opening. The vehicle part to which the unit is mounted is located below (in the direction of the wheels in a land vehicle) the main floor area. In the stowed configuration, the second main panel surface generally represents the upper limit of the unit, meaning that in the stowed configuration, the unit extends downwards from the main floor area.

[0057] In a land vehicle such as a van, motorhome, or caravan, the main usable floor can be the interior floor of a typically enclosed interior. In a watercraft such as a yacht, the usable floor can be, for example, the interior cabin floor, but in principle also the deck or part of the deck.

[0058] A piece of furniture according to the disclosure allows the furniture to fit seamlessly into the surrounding main usable floor in the stowed configuration, or the main usable floor area and the second main panel area merge into one another without a ledge or step. With a sufficiently robust design of the second main panel area as described above, the entire usable floor area, i.e. both the main usable floor area and the second main panel area, can be used for the placement and transport of objects such as luggage or commercial payloads, without restriction by the furniture, or can be used, for example, to place an inflatable bed. As shown above, the second main panel area is also advantageously accessible for people. In this context, it should be noted that many typical vans, with largely standardized internal dimensions, allow an adult to stand upright in their interior.

[0059] In its intended use, the furniture can serve as a relatively large and multifunctional table, such as a coffee table, dining table, desk, or conference table. Combined with appropriately designed furniture, especially folding chairs, the vehicle can serve as a relatively spacious, mobile office and conference room. By rotating the tabletop, the first main surface is on top, creating a visually and tactilely appealing table surface.

[0060] In addition to installation in a vehicle, a piece of furniture according to the disclosure can also be advantageously used in other confined spaces, such as on a balcony or terrace, where the furniture is part of the balcony or is integrated. Likewise, the furniture can be used in a cabin, a weekend home, or a so-called "tiny house," etc., where it can be integrated into a floor.

[0061] In a further aspect, the present disclosure relates to the use of a piece of furniture according to the disclosure in its usage configuration as furniture, in particular a table, and alternatively in its storage configuration as a usable floor area, in particular as a step and / or loading area.

[0062] BRIEF EXPLANATION OF THE FIGURES

[0063] The figures show schematically:

[0064] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a piece of furniture according to the disclosure in the form of a table in a first side view in a usage configuration;

[0065] Fig. 2 shows the furniture according to Fig. 1 in a second side view in the usage configuration; Fig. 3 shows the furniture according to Fig. 1 in a corresponding view in a storage configuration;

[0066] Fig. 4 shows an end region along the plate rotation axis PA for a further embodiment of a table as a piece of furniture according to the disclosure in a plan view;

[0067] Fig. 5 shows a section of a panel connector and other elements for a table according to Fig. 4;

[0068] Fig. 6 is a detailed view of an end portion of a panel connector;

[0069] Fig. 7 shows an end region of a table according to Figure 4 in the stowed configuration;

[0070] Fig. 8 is a view corresponding to Fig. 7 in an intermediate state;

[0071] Fig. 9 shows a view corresponding to Fig. 7 in the usage configuration;

[0072] Fig. 10 shows a table mounted in a van or box van; Fig. 11 shows a folding chair according to the disclosure in a side view;

[0073] Fig. 12 shows an embodiment of the furniture in a plan view;

[0074] Fig. 13 is a sectional view corresponding to Fig. 12 in the stowed configuration. DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0075] In the following, reference is first made to Figure 1 and Figure 2, which schematically show a table 1 as an exemplary piece of furniture according to the disclosure in a mounted configuration on a body / chassis part 2.1 of a vehicle in two mutually perpendicular side views, transverse to the direction of gravity.

[0076] Spatially directional terms such as "height," "top, bottom," and "horizontal" are used with reference to the Cartesian coordinate system with spatial directions x, y, and z shown as an example: In a normal usage configuration, such as mounting the furniture in a horizontally or leveled vehicle, the x-axis and y-axis run horizontally or lie in a horizontal plane. A vertical direction perpendicular to this defines "top" and "bottom," with the direction of gravity corresponding to the negative z-direction.

[0077] The table 1 comprises a plate 1.1 and two plate supports 1.2, each of which is implemented here with a scissor-lift mechanism. The table 1 is mounted, by way of the scissor-lift mechanism, to a chassis / body part 2.1, for example a floor part of a land vehicle (not shown as such, see Figure 10) such as a van or panel van or a box body / container. The chassis / body part 2.1 represents a mounting base. The table 1 can, in particular, be mounted such that it is located in the interior area of ​​the land vehicle. Other mountings, for example in caravans or watercraft, as explained in the general description, are possible. The plate 1.1 is, by way of example, rectangular with a plate length I, a plate width b and a plate thickness d. I is the length of the long sides of the plate and b is the length of the short sides of the plate.A panel rotation axis PA runs parallel and centrally between the long sides of the panel. In a typical configuration for installation in a van or panel truck, the panel length I can be 2 m and the panel width b 0.6 m, for example. Other dimensions are of course possible depending on the intended use and space available.

[0078] Along the plate rotation axis PA, the plate 1.1 is held rotatably about the plate rotation axis PA by means of rotary hinges 1.4 between plate connectors 1.2.6, which are arranged parallel to the plate short sides and directly adjacent to the plate short sides or with a small gap. The rotary hinges 1.4 can be designed as torque hinges or have deliberate friction to prevent unintentional rotation of the plate 1.1. The plate 1.1 can advantageously be rotatable by at least 180 degrees, but can also be rotatable by a larger or smaller angle or even indefinitely. Optionally, it is also possible to rotate the plate in locking steps. A dimension resulting from the plate length I plus further elements adjoining in the longitudinal direction or along the plate rotation axis is referred to as the effective plate length I'.The effective panel length I' refers in particular to the total length of all elements that are raised or lowered via the panel supports 1.2 by changing the support height. In the embodiment shown, the effective panel length I' results from the panel length I plus the dimension of the two panel connectors 1.6.2 along the panel rotation axis PA. In general, the effective panel length I' is also the total length of the furniture 1 along the panel rotation axis PA.

[0079] The plate 1 .1 has two main plate surfaces 1 .1 .1 , 1 .1 .2 spaced from each other by the plate thickness d. In the configuration shown in Figure 1 , Figure 2, the first main plate surface 1.1.1 points upwards (away from the body / chassis part 2.1 or the mounting base) and the second main plate surface 1.1.2 points downwards (towards the body / chassis part 2.1 or the mounting base). By rotating the plate 1 .1 about the plate rotation axis PA, the orientation and position of the main plate surfaces 1.1.1 , 1 .1 .2 can be interchanged.

[0080] The plate supports 1.2 are designed to hold the plate 1.1 at a variable support height h above the chassis / body part 2.1 or the mounting base. The support height h essentially corresponds to an extension height of the lifting scissor mechanisms. The connection between the lifting scissor mechanisms of the plate supports 1.2 and the plate 1.1 is made via the plate connectors 1.2.6. The lifting scissor mechanisms each carry a plate connector 1.2.6 at their upper ends. The plate connectors 1.2.6, in turn, rotatably support the plate 1.1 via the rotary hinges 1.4.

[0081] The lifting scissor mechanisms, in a basically known manner, each have a number of scissor segments 1.2.1 which are rotatably connected in pairs at their ends and in their middles by scissor joints 1.2.2. This allows the extension and thus the support height h to be changed, whereby the support height h is measured in the vertical direction or along the z-axis, perpendicular to the main panel surfaces 1.1.1, 1.1.2. A scissor width sb measured along the y-axis also changes with a change in the extension or the support height h, and in the opposite direction: the greater the extension or the support height h, the smaller the scissor width sb and vice versa. The lowest scissor segments 1.2.1 each have a roller 1.2.3 at their free end as a translation device. The two rollers 1.2.3 of each panel support 1.2 are each mounted in a rail 1.3, which extends parallel to the x-axis or the short sides of the plate. The rails 1 .3 are mounted on or at the chassis / body part 2.1. They are assumed here to be part of the table 1, but as interface elements they can also be viewed as part of the mounting base. During vehicle assembly, the rails 1 .3 (and thus the x-axis) advantageously extend in the direction of the vehicle width. The uppermost scissor segments 1 .2.1 also each have a translation device 1 .2.3' at their free end, e.g. in the form of sliders, carriages or rollers, which run in a corresponding linear guide realized by a groove 1 .2.7. A groove 1 .2.7 extends lengthwise in each of the plate connectors 1 .2.6 on their underside facing the mounting base.

[0082] In the embodiment shown here, each plate carrier 1.2 is further equipped with a spring-damper device, here designed as a gas pressure spring 1.2.4 (shown only in Figure 1). The gas pressure springs 1.2.4 can in particular be double-stroke springs, as is generally known from the prior art. One free end of each gas pressure spring 1.2.4 (here on the piston) is articulated to a scissor segment 1.2.1, and the opposite free end (here on the cylinder) is attached to the body / chassis part 2.1 or the mounting base. The gas pressure springs 1.2.4 allow the plate 1.1 to be held at a desired height without the lifting scissor mechanisms being compressed by the gravity of the plate 1.1 and any objects located on it, causing the plate 1.1 to sink downwards. At least one of the gas pressure springs can optionally be fixable or lockable. Alternatively or additionally, one or more locking devices 1 .2.5 may be provided, which, for example, lock two adjacent scissor segments 1.2.1 against each other for releasable height fixation. Depending on the dimensions and overall design, only one gas pressure spring 1.2.4 may be provided on one of the lifting scissor mechanisms.

[0083] In the embodiment shown, at the interface between the plate

[0084] 1.1 and the plate connectors 1.2.6, furthermore, locks 1.5 are provided, which can be designed, for example, as sliding or pivoting locks in a generally known manner. These locks prevent the plate 1.1 from accidentally rotating around the plate rotation axis PA, particularly in the use configuration. In the stowage configuration explained in more detail below, the plate can be placed on a corresponding support, for example, on the career / chassis part.

[0085] 2.1 and thus be secured. An additional locking device can be provided as an option.

[0086] Figure 2 further shows the advantageous arrangement of the table 1, for example in the interior of a vehicle (see also Figure 10) as previously described. The vehicle has a main usable floor 2.2, assumed here to be at least substantially flat, with a main usable floor surface 2.2.1. The main usable floor surface 2.2.1 is typically designed as a step surface and / or loading surface or floor surface. For this purpose, at least one (not separately shown) uppermost layer or cover layer of the main usable floor 2.2 consists of a correspondingly robust and resilient material as is generally known from the prior art and mentioned in the general description. At least one cover layer of the plate 1.1 defining the second main plate surface 1.1.2 is preferably made of the same material. A cover layer defining the first main plate surface 1.1.1 defining opposite cover layer is, as stated in the general description, typically made of a different and usually sensitive material for use as a desk and / or conference table and / or coffee table surface or the like.

[0087] The main usable floor 2.2 has a panel receiving recess 2.2.2. At the top, i.e. into the main usable floor surface 2.2.1, the panel receiving opening 2.2.2 opens into a panel receiving opening 2.2.2'. The body / chassis part 2.1, on which the table 1 is mounted, is located below or at the base of the panel receiving recess 2.2.1 and is accessible from there. Depending on the design, the main usable floor 2.2 can be completely or partially integral with the body / chassis part 2.1 or can be part of the body / chassis part 2.1. In this case, the panel receiving recess 2.2.1 can be shaped, for example, as a depression or trough.

[0088] Instead of a body / chassis part, the mounting base can also form a structural unit with the main floor 2.2 or be manufactured integrally with it. In this case, the main floor 2.2 can be provided together with the table 1 as a pre-assembled insert floor and, for example, can be mounted as a whole in the interior of the vehicle or anchored to the interior floor of the vehicle when retrofitting a vehicle.

[0089] The dimensions and contour of the plate receiving recess 2.2.2 are adapted to the table 1. In particular, the contour of the plate receiving opening 2.2.2' corresponds to the table 1 in the top view. For this example with a rectangular plate 1.1, the contour of the plate receiving opening 2.2.2' is also rectangular, with a length equal to the effective plate length l' and a width corresponding to the plate width b. If necessary, the contour or dimensions of the plate receiving opening 2.2.2' can be selected to be slightly larger. In the interest of assembly and tolerance compensation, a small circumferential gap is then present, which is functionally and visually unproblematic in use. It should be noted that the plate receiving recess 2.2.2, as shown in Figure 2, basically has a constant cross-section over its extension to the chassis / body part 2.1, but can of course also widen. The only important thing is that the plate 1.1 can be sunk as described below.

[0090] Figure 3 schematically illustrates the storage configuration of a table 1 in a view corresponding to Figure 1, wherein the plate 1.1 is in section. The plate 1.1 with the adjacent plate connectors 1.2.6 is lowered by means of the lifting scissor mechanisms such that it is received by the plate receiving opening 2.2.2 or sunk into it. Before lowering, the plate 1.1 was rotated 180° about the plate rotation axis PA compared to Figures 1 and 2, so that the second main plate surface 1.2.2 points upwards. After lowering, the second main plate surface 1.2.2 lies in a plane with the main usable floor surface 2.2.1. In this way, a substantially continuous usable floor surface is formed, which comprises both the main usable floor surface 2.1.1 and the second main plate surface 1.1.2. In this configuration, the lifting scissor mechanisms are folded and have a minimal height or extension in the z-direction.The scissor width sb is accordingly maximum. The more sensitive first main plate surface 1 .1 .1 points downwards and is accordingly protected. The gas pressure springs 1 .2.4 (not shown in Figure 3), as well as the lifting scissor mechanisms, are arranged vertically between the plate 1 .1 and the body Z-chassis part 2.1. Typically, the height occupied by the table 1 (in the z-direction) between a top side of the mounting base or the body Z-chassis part 2.1 and the usable floor area is a few centimeters, for example in a range of no more than 4 cm or no more than 6 cm, or in a range of 4 cm to 6 cm.

[0091] To facilitate the extension of the lifting scissor mechanisms when changing from the stowed configuration to the use configuration, one or more handle devices 1.1.3 (shown only in Figure 3) can be recessed into the panel 1.2, starting from the second main panel surface 1.1.2, as explained in the general description. In the stowed configuration, these point upwards and are easily accessible, but due to their recessed installation, they do not interfere with the use as part of the usable floor. In the use configuration, they are located on the underside of panel 1.1 and thus do not interfere with the continuous first main panel surface 1.1.1.

[0092] Furthermore, Figure 3 and Figure 9, which is otherwise described below, show the integration of optional magnetic elements 1.1.4 into the plate 1. As explained in the general description, plate-, disc-, or strip-shaped magnetic elements 1.1.4 can be embedded in the plate 1.1 so as to be visible from the first main plate surface 1.1,1 or arranged invisibly beneath a cover layer forming the first main plate surface 1.1.1. Objects can be fixed to the plate 1.1 using magnetic elements 1.1.4. If required, such magnetic elements can also be integrated into the plate connectors 1.2.6 or cover elements 1.7 in an analogous manner, as described below.

[0093] Without further modification, the table 1, as described above, has the disadvantage that a side of the panel connectors 1 .2.6 facing away from the mounting base, i.e., facing upwards, is visible. This can be visually disturbing, particularly in the usage configuration, since the surface, as part of the usable floor area, is subject to increased stress and wear in the stowed configuration, as described. With reference to Figures 4 to 9, an embodiment is shown that avoids this disadvantage. It should be noted that an identical arrangement is advantageously provided at both ends of the furniture item 1 along the panel rotation axis PA.

[0094] Figure 4, like Figures 7, 8, 9, schematically shows an end region of a table 1 along the plate rotation axis PA in a plan view, i.e. vertically from above. Unless otherwise described, the table 1 basically corresponds to that previously described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. The illustration, particularly in Figure 4 and Figures 7, 8, 9, is not to scale, in that the plate width b is shown in a shortened form. Furthermore, the plate 1.1 is shown spaced apart from adjacent elements, in particular plate connectors 1.2.6 and / or cover element 1.7 as described below, along the plate rotation axis PA.

[0095] In this embodiment, the panel connectors 1.2.6 are designed such that their upper sides are offset downwards relative to the upward-facing main panel surface 1.1.1 or 1.1.2, i.e., toward the mounting base. At the top of the panel connectors 1.2.6, at their ends relative to the panel width (x-direction), a displacement device is arranged with a linear guide, e.g., implemented as a rail 1.2.8, in which a carriage 1.2.8' is accommodated for linear displacement. It should be noted that only one displacement device on one of the sides would also be possible.

[0096] The rails 1.2.8 form the upper end of the plate supports 1.2. The carriages 1.2.8 point toward each other or toward the plate rotation axis PA. Accordingly, the rails 1.2.8 are open toward the plate rotation axis PA or toward the center of the plate connector 1.2.6. The displacement axes run parallel to the plate rotation axis PA.

[0097] A cover element 1 .7 is attached to the carriage 1 .2.8' so as to be rotatable or pivotable about a cover element pivot axis AA. The cover element 1 .7 is attached to the carriage 1 .2.8 at one end of the cover element 1 .7 along the plate rotation axis PA. The cover element pivot axis AA runs transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the plate rotation axis PA and parallel to the short sides of the plate. Like the plate rotation axis PA, the cover element pivot axis AA runs horizontally or parallel to the xy plane. As explained below, the plate rotation axis PA does not intersect the cover element pivot axis AA. Rather, the cover element pivot axis AA is offset upwards or away from the mounting base with respect to the plate rotation axis PA (see Figure 5). Figure 5 shows a schematic section of a plate connector 1 .2.6 together with the rail 1.2.8 and carriage 1 .2.8' mounted thereon in a section through the plate connector 1 .2.6, with the section plane running parallel to the yz-plane. Figure 6 shows a schematic detailed view of an end region of a plate connector 1.2.6 together with the rail 1.2.8 and slide 1.2.8' mounted thereon in a view parallel to the plate rotation axis PA or the y-axis.

[0098] Thanks to the sliding arrangements, each cover element 1.7 can be displaced horizontally relative to the plate 1.1 and the plate connector 1.2.6, as described below, and can also be pivoted about its cover element pivot axis AA. The cover elements 1.7 are designed such that, when viewed from above, they completely cover the plate connector 1.2.6 to which they are mounted. The cover elements 1.7 can, for example, be designed in the form of a plate strip or a bar with an at least substantially rectangular cross-section. The effective plate length I' here corresponds to the plate length I plus the extension of the two cover elements 1.7 along the plate rotation axis.

[0099] In the following, particular reference is again made to Figure 4 and Figures 7, 8, 9. Figure 7 shows a situation in which the cover element 1.7 of one panel end adjoins the panel 1.1 and completely covers the panel connector 1.2.6. The panel connector 1.2.6 is therefore not visible as such. In the view from above, a second cover element main surface 1.7.2 is visible from the cover element 1.7, which corresponds in appearance and properties to the second panel main surface 1.1.2 and can be part of a step and / or loading surface as described. In Figure 7, the panel 1.1 is also rotated so that the first panel main surface 1.1.1, which as described can be designed, for example, as a desk surface, points upwards. The first panel main surface 1.1.1 and the second cover element main surface 1.7.2 lie in a horizontal plane.This corresponds, for example, to a state in which, starting from the stowed configuration, the support height h has been increased for use and the plate 1 .1 has been rotated about the plate rotation axis PA. Starting from the configuration shown in Figure 7, the cover element 1 .7 can now be moved away from the plate 1.1 (to the left in Figure 7) using the displacement devices, whereby the carriages 1 .2.8' each move accordingly in their rails 1 .2.8 and the cover element pivot axis AA also moves accordingly. Figure 4 shows an intermediate state and Figure 8 shows the configuration at the end of the movement. The cover element 1.7 has now moved furthest away from the plate 1.1. Starting from this configuration, the cover element 1.7 can now be pivoted 180 degrees about the cover element pivot axis AA until an end position according to Figure 9 is reached. Now, as in the initial position of Figure 7, the cover element 1.7 lies on the plate connector 1.2.6, but is rotated 180 degrees so that its first cover element main surface 1.7.1, opposite the second cover element main surface 1.7.2, faces upward and lies in a plane with the first plate main surface 1.1.1. The first cover element main surface 1.7.1 is preferably designed to correspond to the first plate main surface 1.1.1. The same procedure is followed for the cover element located at the other plate end.

[0100] To change back to the stowage configuration, in addition to turning over the plate 1.1, the steps described above are carried out in reverse order, so that before lowering, the second plate main surface 1.1.2 and the second cover element main surface 1.7.2 of each cover element face upwards.

[0101] In another embodiment, cover elements 1 .7 can be placed on the plate connectors 1 .2.6 and fastened, for example, magnetically or detachably in a form-fitting manner.

[0102] Figure 10 schematically and exemplarily illustrates the integration or installation of a table 1 into a vehicle, shown here as a van or panel van 2, in a top view. The van 2 has a closed box 2.4 and, in front of it in the direction of travel, a driver's cab 2.3, which is separated here as an example. The box 2.4 has a single- or multi-part, for example two-part, door 2.4.1 of a known type at the rear and encloses an interior space which can serve, for example, as a usable or loading space. Alternatively or additionally, doors can also be provided on one or both side walls of the box 2.4. The table 1 is integrated as described above, with the long sides of the panel and the panel rotation axis PA running parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal axis.

[0103] In the arrangement shown, table 1 is suitable, for example, as a retractable desk and conference table, which allows the van 2 to be used as a mobile office. For this purpose, additional seating, in particular folding chairs 3, as described below, can be provided. Furthermore, office aids (not shown) such as a screen mounted on a wall or on the box ceiling and an adjustable monitor / projector can be provided. Furthermore, storage furniture (not shown) such as built-in cupboards, drawer elements, etc. can be provided for both office supplies and other utensils, such as camping equipment. Likewise, a separate or open kitchen and / or a sanitary area can be provided, as is generally known from mobile homes and caravans.

[0104] In the stowed configuration of table 1, the usable floor area can serve as a loading area as described, but also for example for the placement of one or more air mattresses or an inflatable bed as is generally known.

[0105] Figure 10 shows the arrangement of a single table 1 with an elongated, rectangular tabletop 1.1. This is advantageous if the table 1 is to be used (also), for example, as a conference table. However, it is also possible to provide several, for example two, essentially separate tables 1, each with a shorter tabletop 1.1 in the longitudinal direction, for example a square tabletop. This optionally makes it possible to put only one of the tables 1 into the usage configuration, while the other remains in its storage configuration. If the entire length is not required, a short table with correspondingly more other space is available. It is also possible to arrange two, for example, square tables lengthwise at a certain distance and to provide a removable partition or room divider between them, for example in the form of a roller blind or curtain mounted on the box ceiling.In this way, it is possible to optionally divide the space into two offices, each with a table.

[0106] Furniture of the type described here can be easily retrofitted to many common vehicles, such as vans, by simply inserting a reversible insert shelf that contains the furniture. However, it can also be installed directly during vehicle manufacture as an accessory or as standard equipment. The insert shelf can represent the main usable floor.

[0107] An advantageous embodiment of seating furniture, in particular folding chairs 3, is described below with additional reference to Figure 11. These can advantageously complement a piece of furniture, in particular a table 1 as described above. However, they can also be used independently. Figure 11 shows a schematic side view of the folding chair 3. A folding chair 3 can be lowered into a usable floor when not in use in a similar manner to that described above for a table 1 and, similar to the tabletop 1.1 of the table 1, can represent part of a usable floor area. The usable floor can be an insert shelf as described above.

[0108] The folding chair 3 has a seat element 3.1, a backrest element 3.2, and a seat support 3.3 (only partially shown). The seat support 3.3 can basically be designed in the same way as a previously described plate support. In particular, one or two scissor-lift mechanisms can be provided. The chair 3 can be mounted on a mounting base, for example the body Z-chassis part 2.2, via the seat support 3.3 in the same way as the table 1. A seat height of the seat element 3.3 above the mounting base can advantageously be changed and fixed. The seat support is attached to a seat element underside 3.1.2 of the seat element 3.1. The opposite seat element upper side 3.1.1 is designed, for example, as a padded seat surface and points upwards when mounted or installed.

[0109] The backrest element 3.2 is pivotably or foldably connected to the seat element 3.1 along one edge about a backrest pivot axis RA, for example via a chair hinge 3.4. The chair hinge 3.4 can be designed as a torque hinge. The backrest element 3.2 has a backrest element front 3.1.1 and an opposite backrest element rear 3.1.2. In a usage configuration of the folding chair 3, the seat element 3.1 and the backrest element 3.2 form the seat and backrest of a chair, whereby a person can sit on the seat element top 3.1.1 and lean their back against the backrest element front 3.2.1. The backrest element front 3.2.1 can, for example, be designed identically to the seat element top 3.1.1 and, for example, be upholstered.

[0110] When not in use, the backrest element 3.2 is folded onto the seat element 3.1 about the backrest pivot axis RA so that the front side 3.2.1 of the backrest element rests on the top side 3.1.1 of the seat element. By lowering the folding chair 3 or reducing the seat height via the seat support 3.3, the folding chair 3 can be converted into its stowed configuration. In this configuration, the backrest element rear side 3.2.2 lies flush with the main usable floor area 2.2, as previously described, and thus forms part of the usable floor area. The backrest element rear side 3.2.2 is advantageously designed in the same way as, or made of, the same material as, the main usable floor 2.2. In the stowed configuration, the top side 3.1.1 of the seat element and the backrest element front side 3.2.1 are inaccessible and protected.

[0111] Reference is now made to Figures 12 and 13, which schematically show a piece of furniture with a panel support and lifting scissor mechanism. In particular, one embodiment of the lifting scissor mechanism is shown. The piece of furniture 1, shown in dashed lines, can be, for example, a table or chair as described here. Other types of furniture are certainly conceivable. For the sake of clarity, the terms panel and panel support are used to describe Figures 12 and 13. The panel can also be a seat element with a backrest element as described herein. The panel support can also be a seat support as described herein. In particular, the piece of furniture 1 can be mounted in an assembled configuration on a body or chassis part of a vehicle. The piece of furniture 1 in Figure 12 is shown in plan view. The piece of furniture 1 comprises a panel 1.1, which is preferably connected to panel supports 1 via panel connectors (not shown in Figures 12 and 13).2, as described herein. The plate supports 1.2 are designed to hold the plate 1.1 at a variable support height above the chassis or body part (not shown) or the mounting base.

[0112] One of the lifting scissor mechanisms will be discussed below, since both panel supports 1.2 in Figure 12 are identical, or rather are arranged mirror-symmetrically to the panel rotation axis PA. The lifting scissor mechanism of the panel support 1.2 has a first pair of scissor segments 1.2.9a and a second pair of scissor segments 1.2.9b. The first pair of scissor segments 1.2.9a and the second pair of scissor segments 1.2.9b are each connected centrally by means of a scissor joint 1.2.2'. The first pair of scissor segments 1.2.9a is designed as a first scissor cross, and the second pair of scissor segments 1.2.9b is designed as a second scissor cross. The first pair of scissor segments 1.2.9a is arranged closer to the center of the furniture than the second pair of scissor segments 1.2.9b. As can be seen from Figures 12 and 13, the first pair of scissor segments is 1 .2.9a and the second pair of scissor segments is 1 .2.9b in the stowed configuration arranged parallel to the plate rotation axis PA. A scissor segment of the first pair of scissor segments 1, 2.9a, which is arranged closest to the furniture center, forms a first outer scissor segment 1.2.1a. A scissor segment of the second pair of scissor segments 1, 2.9b, which is arranged furthest from the furniture center, forms a second outer scissor segment 1.2.1d. Scissor segments arranged between the first outer scissor segment 1.2.1a and the second outer scissor segment 1.2.1d each form an inner scissor segment 1.2.1b, 1.2.1c. The first outer scissor segment 1.2.1a is articulated to the second outer scissor segment 1.2.1d, each at a free end, by means of a scissor joint 1.2.2. The inner scissor segments 1.2.1b, 1.2.1c are connected at one free end by a scissor joint 1.2.2. The scissor joints connecting the outer scissor segments 1.2.1a, 1.2.1d connect opposite to the scissor joints that connect the inner scissor segments 1.2.1 b, 1.2.1c.

[0113] Along the x-direction, an offset can be seen between the inner scissor segments 1, 2.1 b, 1.2.1 c and the outer scissor segments 1.2.1 a, 1.2.1 d. For clarity, Figure 12 shows a comparatively large distance in the y-direction between parallel arranged scissor segments 1.2.1 a, 1.2.1 b, 1.2.1 c, 1.2.1 d. However, it should be noted that this distance can be reduced to a minimum in order to realize a more compact arrangement of the scissor segments 1.2.1 a, 1.2.1 b, 1.2.1 c, 1.2.1 d. The second outer scissor segment 1.2.1 d has a roller at its free end.

[0114] 1.2.3. The inner scissor segment 1.2.1c, connected to the second outer scissor segment 1.2.1d, also has a roller 1.2.3 at its other free end. Furthermore, one or more locking devices 1.2.5 are provided between the inner scissor segments 1.2.1b and 1.2.1c.

[0115] In the embodiment shown, the plate supports 1.2 are equipped with two gas pressure springs

[0116] 1.2.4. One free end of each gas spring 1.2.4 (here on the piston) is hinged to the first outer scissor segment 1.2.1a of the plate support 1.2 and to a first outer scissor segment of the opposite plate support by a support connector 4. The opposite free end (here on the cylinder) of each gas spring is attached to the body or chassis part or the mounting base. The plate 1.1 has a recess (not shown) on a side facing the mounting base.

[0117] Figure 13 schematically shows the piece of furniture 1 according to Figure 12 in a corresponding sectional view AA. The panel 1.1 is only shown schematically by the dashed frame. The piece of furniture 1 is in a stowed configuration, i.e. the lifting scissor mechanism is lowered such that the panel 1.1 is received in or sunk into a panel receiving opening. The first pair of scissor segments and the second pair of scissor segments are arranged in the recess of the panel 1.1. Likewise, the gas pressure spring can be arranged in the recess of the panel. The recess of the panel 1.1 can be formed from one or more individual recesses which receive the support profiles and / or gas pressure springs.

[0118] The offset between the first outer scissor segment 1.2.1 a and the inner

[0119] Scissor segment 1.2.1 b can also be seen in Figure 13. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0120] 1 table

[0121] 1.1 Plate

[0122] 1.1.1 first main plate surface

[0123] 1.1.2 second main plate surface

[0124] 1.1.3 Handle device

[0125] 1 .1 .4 magnetic element

[0126] 1 .2 Plate carrier

[0127] 1.2.1 Scissor segment

[0128] 1.2.1 a first outer scissor segment

[0129] 1 .2.1 b inner scissor segment

[0130] 1.2.1c inner scissor segment

[0131] 1 .2.1 d second outer scissor segment

[0132] 1.2.2, 1.2.2' scissor joint

[0133] 1.2.3, 1.2.3' Roller (translation device)

[0134] 1 .2.4 Gas spring (spring-damper device)

[0135] 1 .2.5 Locking device

[0136] 1 .2.6 Panel connectors

[0137] 1.2.7 Groove (linear guide)

[0138] 1.2.8 Rail (linear guide)

[0139] 1 .2.8' sled

[0140] 1 .2.9a, 1 .2.9b Pair of scissor segments / scissor cross

[0141] 1 .3 Rail

[0142] 1 .4 Rotating hinge

[0143] 1 .5 bars

[0144] 1 .7 Cover element

[0145] 1 .7.1 first cover element main surface 1 .7.2 second cover element main surface

[0146] 2 vans (vehicles)

[0147] 2.1 Body Z-Chassis part (assembly base)

[0148] 2.2 Main usable floor

[0149] 2.2.1 Main usable floor area

[0150] 2.2.2 Plate receiving recess

[0151] 2.2.2' Plate holder opening

[0152] 2.3 Driver's cab

[0153] 2.4 Box

[0154] 2.4.1 Door

[0155] 3 folding chairs (seating furniture)

[0156] 3.1 Seat element

[0157] 3.1.1 Seat element top

[0158] 3.1.2 Seat element underside

[0159] 3.2 Backrest element

[0160] 3.2.1 Backrest element front

[0161] 3.2.2 Backrest element back

[0162] 3.3 Seat support

[0163] 3.4 Chair hinge

[0164] 4 Beam connector b Panel width d Panel thickness

[0165] I Plate length

[0166] I' effective plate length h beam height sb scissor width

[0167] PA plate rotation axis

[0168] AA Cover element pivot axis RA Backrest pivot axis x, y, z spatial directions

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1 . Furniture, in particular a table (1 ), comprising: - a plate (1.1) with a first main plate surface (1.1.1) and a second main plate surface (1.1.2) opposite the first main plate surface (1.1.1) and - two plate supports (1.2), wherein the plate (1.1) extends between the plate supports (1.2) along a plate rotation axis (PA) and the plate (1.1) is rotatably connected to the plate supports (1.2) about the plate rotation axis (PA), wherein the plate rotation axis (PA) runs between the first (1.1.1) and second (1.1.2) plate main surface, wherein the plate supports (1.2) each have a fastening structure for mounting the furniture on a mounting base, wherein a support height (h) of the plate supports (1.2) between the plate rotation axis (PA) and the fastening structures is variable, wherein the support height (h) is minimal in a stowed configuration.

2. Furniture according to claim 1, wherein the plate rotation axis (PA) in a view transverse to the first (1.1.1) and second (1.1.2) plate main surface runs through a center, in particular through a center of gravity of the first (1.1.1) and second (1.2.2) plate main surface.

3. Furniture according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plate rotation axis (PA) runs centrally between the first (1.1.1) and second (1.1.2) plate main surface.

4. Furniture according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first (1.1.1) and second (1.1.2) main panel surfaces have a rectangular contour and each have two mutually parallel long sides and short sides.

5. Furniture according to claim 4, wherein the plate rotation axis (PA) runs parallel to and centrally between the plate long sides.

6. Furniture according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plate (1.1) is releasably lockable with respect to the plate rotation axis (PA).

7. Furniture according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support height (h) is releasably fixable.

8. Furniture according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel supports (1.2) each comprise a lifting scissor mechanism.

9. Furniture according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first (1.1.1) and second (1.2.12) main panel surfaces are designed differently.

10. Furniture according to claim 9, wherein the first main plate surface (1.1.1) is designed as a work surface, in particular a desk surface, and the second main plate surface (1.1.2) is designed as a step and / or loading surface. 1 1. Furniture according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel supports (1.2) in the stowed configuration are arranged at least largely between the first (1.1.1) and second (1.1.2) main panel surfaces in a viewing direction along the panel rotation axis (PA).

12. Furniture according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an extension of the furniture in a viewing direction along the plate rotation axis (PA) in the stowed configuration is not greater than 60 mm, preferably not greater than 45 mm.

13. Furniture according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening structures are designed for mounting on a vehicle part, in particular a body and / or chassis part (2.1).

14. Vehicle, wherein the vehicle is in particular a motor vehicle, a trailer or a watercraft, with a piece of furniture according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the vehicle has a main floor (2.2) with a main floor surface (2.2.1 ), wherein the main floor (2.2) has a plate receiving recess (2.2.2), wherein the plate receiving recess (2.2.2) opens into the main floor surface (2.2.1 ) with a plate receiving opening (2.2.2'), - wherein the furniture is mounted on a vehicle part in such a way that, in the stowed configuration, the plate (1.1) is positioned in the plate receiving recess (2.2.2), wherein one of the main plate surfaces (1 .1 .1, 1 .1 .2) and at least one surrounding area of ​​the main usable floor surface (2.2.1) lie in one plane and form a usable floor surface, - and wherein in the usage configuration the plate (1.1) is spaced from the main usable floor (2.2) by the plate supports (1.2) and in particular is held above the main usable floor surface (2.2.1).

15. Use of a piece of furniture according to one of claims 1 to 13 in its use configuration as furniture, in particular a table (1 ), and alternatively in its Storage configuration as usable floor space, particularly as a step and / or loading area.

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