System, vehicle, and method of manufacturing a system

Abstract

The invention relates to a system including a support structure for supporting items which are placed on and / or against the support structure. The support structure includes a plurality of individual slats (16) arranged in series, a cover layer (18) which defines a top surface of the support structure on and / or against which the items are placeable, and an intermediate layer (24) arranged between the cover layer and the slats (16). The intermediate layer (24) is attached to the slats (16) and the cover layer (18). The support structure is configured to be extendible from a rolled up stowed position, in which the support structure is at least partially stowable, to an unrolled deployed position, in which the items can be placed on and supported by the support structure. The support structure includes an interconnecting mechanism (30) configured to interconnect the slats (16) in the deployed position to maintain the slats in said deployed position. The interconnecting mechanism is configured to at least partially release the interconnection of the slats (16) to allow the movement into the stowed position. The invention further relates to a vehicle and method of manufacturing a system.

Description

[0001] Vossius Ref.: AJ3389 PCT-0 S5

[0002] System, vehicle, and method of manufacturing a system

[0003] Tables and other support structures (e.g. horizontal or vertical), such as wall elements or dividers, are used in various environments, e.g., in vehicle, trains, aircraft, and watercraft, for a number of different purposes, e.g., for recreational and / or work purposes, e.g., to place items on and / or as a boundary, e.g., of a room. Some environments, in particular in vehicles, aircraft, and watercraft, may provide only a limited space to accommodate the table and / or other support structure.

[0004] For this purpose, support structures, for instance tables, in relatively compact environments, e.g., in vehicles, trains, aircraft, and watercraft, as well as rooms and / or spaces in general, e.g., of and / or within a building, are often configured to be movable from a stowed position, in which the table utilizes a minimum amount of space, to a use position. At least in most cases, tables known from the prior art are configured to be foldable to allow the respective table to be folded in the stowed position and unfolded to the use position.

[0005] However, the foldable tables known from the prior art have several drawbacks. For insta nee, foldable tables often have one or more seams and / or joints along which the respective table is foldable. The one or more seams and / or joints may reduce the aesthetic appeal of the table. Furthermore, this may reduce the choice of materials which may be used for or with the table and / or may reduce the flexibility and / or a freedom of choice for the configuration of the table, e.g., with respect to a shape and / or one or more dimensions of the table.

[0006] Moreover, foldable tables may reduce or provide a limited user-friendliness and / or conveniency of use. For instance, the folding and / or unfolding process of the foldable tables may be relatively cumbersome. For instance, at least most foldable tables require that any items which are arranged on the table be removed before folding the table into the stowed position.

[0007] The prior art has not or at least not sufficiently addressed one or more of the above-described drawbacks. Thus, based on the prior art, there remains a need to provide an improved table and / or other support structure for use in compact environments, e.g., by improving or eliminating one or more drawbacks of the devices know from the prior art, e.g., one or more of the aboveidentified drawbacks.

[0008] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved table and / or other support structure for use in compact environments, in particular by improving or eliminating one or more drawbacks of the devices know from the prior art, e.g., one or more of the aboveidentified drawbacks.

[0009] This object is achieved by a system as defined by the features of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are defined by the features of the respective dependent claims.

[0010] The system may include at least one support structure configured to support one or more items which are placed or placeable on and / or against the support structure. The system may be configured for use in an interior of an aircraft, a watercraft, and / or a vehicle. The support structure may include a plurality of slats, preferably individual slats. The slats may be arranged in series along at least one direction. The support structure may include at least one cover layer which preferably defines a top and / or visible surface of the support structure on and / or against which the one or more items are placeable. The support structure may include at least one intermediate layer arranged at least partially between the cover layer and the slats. The intermediate layer may be attached, e.g., adhesively attached, to the slats and the cover layer. In particular, the intermediate layer may be attached directly to, i.e., by directly contacting, the slats and / or the cover layer. Alternatively, or additionally, the intermediate layer may be attached indirectly to the slats and / or the cover layer, e.g., by arranging one or more further layers between the intermediate layer and the slats and / or between the intermediate layer and the cover layer.

[0011] The support structure may be configured to be extendible from a stowed position, in which the support structure is at least partially stowed or stowable, to a deployed position, in which the one or more items are placeable on (and / or against) and supportable by the support structure. For instance, the support structure may extend further, e.g., from a housing or base structure of the system, in the deployed position than in the stowed position.

[0012] The support structure may include at least one interconnecting mechanism configured to at least partially interconnect the slats in the deployed position, in particular to increase a rigidity of the support structure. The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to at least partially release the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism in the stowed position. The slats may remain at least partially interconnected, in particular by the interconnecting mechanism, in the stowed position. In this case, for instance, the interconnecting mechanism may be configured to reduce a rigidity and / or stiffness of the interconnection and / or provided by the interconnection in the stowed position (e.g., the interconnecting mechanism may allow more movement of the slats relative to each other). The interconnection of the slats provided by means of the interconnecting mechanism may not be the only interconnection of the slats. For instance, the cover layer and / or the intermediate layer may interconnect the slats. However, by contrast to such potential additional interconnections, such as by means of the cover layer and / or the intermediate layer, the interconnection of the slats by means of the interconnecting mechanism may be released and / or a rigidity and / or a stiffness of the interconnection and / or provided by the interconnection in the stowed position may be reduced (e.g., the interconnecting mechanism may allow more movement of the slats relative to each other), when the support structure is in the stowed position. This may allow the interconnection by means of the interconnecting mechanism to be relatively strong and rigid when the support structure is in the deployed position, while still allowing the support structure to be relatively flexible when the support structure is in or is moved into the stowed position to facilitate stowing the support structure.

[0013] Configuring the support structure to be extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position may allow the support structure to be relatively compact and space-efficient in the stowed position, while providing a sufficiently large surface, e.g., for supporting various items, in the deployed position. Extending the support structure, rather than unfolding the support structure such as in the prior art, may provide a greater user-friendliness. In particular, the use may simply pull or push the support structure from the stowed position to the deployed position. Moreover, at least most foldable support structures, e.g., foldable tables, require that any items which are arranged on the support structure / table element be removed manually by the user before folding the support structure / table element into the stowed position. However, the system described herein enables the user to simply push or pull the support structure, e.g., table element, from the deployed position to the stowed position without necessarily having to manually remove items which are arranged on the support structure.

[0014] Furthermore, arranging the intermediate layer at least partially between the cover layer and the slats may allow the intermediate layer to be configured to absorb forces and / or stress and / or movement of the support structure, e.g., forces and / or stress and / or movement of the support structure between the slats and / or forces and / or stress and / or movement between the intermediate layer and the cover layer and / or the slats. This may allow less forces and / or stress and / or movement to be absorbed by the cover layer, which may protect the cover layer from damage and / or distortion. This may allow a material and / or a configuration of the cover layer to be chosen more flexibly, in particular with a greater focus on optical features, in particular to provide an aesthetically appealing appearance of the support structure by the cover layer, and more independently from the aspects covered or provided by the intermediate layer (as mentioned above), such as absorbing movement and / or stress. Moreover, the intermediate layer may increase one or more haptic characteristics of th e support structure, e.g., by providing a softer and / or more appealing touch of the support structure by a user. Moreover, the intermediate layer may allow one or more functions, such as integrating a device, such as a touch sensor, configured to receive one or more user inputs, and / or one or more light devices and / or one or more actuators, e.g., a linear resonant actuator, i.e., a linear vibration motor, to be integrated into the support structure.

[0015] Moreover, the cover layer may increase an aesthetically appealing appearance of the support structure, since the cover layer may cover any seams and / or joints which may be arranged between the slats. This may provide a seamless and aesthetically appealing appearance of the support structure and eliminate further potential inconveniences caused by such seams and / or joints, in particular when items, e.g., a drink container, are placed on the seams and / or joints, which may cause an inconvenience to the user, such as the item, e.g., drink container, tipping over.

[0016] Moreover, the interconnecting mechanism configured to at least partially interconnect the slats in the deployed position and release the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism in the stowed position may allow the properties of the support structure to be optimized for the deployed position and the stowed position. In particular, the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism in the deployed position may reduce movement and flexibility between adjacent slats which may increase a rigidity and / or a stiffness of the support structure in the deployed position which may increase the usability of the support structure in the deployed position. Releasing the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism may allow the support structure to be stowed in a relatively compact manner in the stowed position, in particular by increasing, compared with the deployed position, a bendability and / or a flexibility of the support structure in the stowed position.

[0017] Although the present disclosure may describe the features, configurations, and advantages of the system within the context of a table element, said features, configurations, and advantages may be applied or implemented to or in any support structure, i.e., any support structure configured to bear a load of one or more items exerted on the support structure. The support structure may be a table element, as described herein in exemplary manner. However, alternatively, or additionally, the support structure may be, e.g., a wall element, e.g. a horizontal wall element or a vertical wall element or an oblique wall element, and / or a divider element, in particular a wall element and / or divider element of an aircraft, a watercraft, in particular a yacht, a vehicle, a train, a mobile home or a space and / or building. The support structure may be configured to at least partially separate two spaces, e.g., of an interior space of a vehicle and / or an aircraft, e.g., as a divider element. The cover layer may define a visible surface of the support structure. The cover layer may include and / or define a visible face, preferably a primary visible face.

[0018] The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to automatically release the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism, e.g., in that a user simply moves the support structure, e.g., by pushing and / or pulling the support structure, towards the stowed position and the interconnecting mechanism automatically releases the interconnection of the slats without the user having to additionally activate a release of the interconnection other than the user simply moving the support structure towards the stowed position.

[0019] The system may include a powered, preferably electrically powered, drive unit configured to drive the support structure between the stowed position and the deployed position, or to at least partially assist manual movement of the support structure, in particular by adding controlled energy, e.g. by electric, hydraulic and / or pneumatic actuators. This may assist the user in moving the support structure between the stowed position and the deployed position. The system may include at least one user interface, e.g., at least one button or touch sensor, configured to receive one or more commands from a user to operate the drive unit to move the support structure between the stowed position and the deployed position.

[0020] Each slat may be a single-piece component, e.g., an integrally or monolithically formed component. Alternatively, each slat may include multiple pieces which have been assembled to a unit, preferably an integral unit.

[0021] The slats may be substantially parallel to each other, in the stowed position and / or in the deployed position. The slats may be at least partially made of wood and / or plastic and / or a composite material, preferably a lightweight composite material, e.g., including phenolic resin impregnated aramid fibers and / or carbon fibers, and / or metal, e.g., aluminum.

[0022] The support structure may be configured as a tray.

[0023] Preferably, the support structure is cantilevered in the deployed position. In particular, a distal end or leading end of the support structure, with respect to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, may be cantilevered.

[0024] Preferably, at least the deployed section of the support structure, is free of any support elements, e.g., a table leg, which support the support structure (in particular by engaging or connecting the support structure and a floor), in particular against gravitational forces, in particular along all lateral sides or edges which are exposed and / or visible by a user when the support structure is in the deployed position. This may allow the system, more specifically the support structure, to be relatively compact and aesthetically appealing. Moreover, this may prevent further inconveniences caused by the above-mentioned support elements, which are commonly used in the prior art (such as support legs which engage with the respective support structure / table element and a floor, support struts in which at least a portion of lateral sides or edges of the respective support structure / table element are received or receivable, etc.), such as potential injuries caused by such support elements.

[0025] Preferably, at least the deployed section of the support structure is free of any support elements which engage with a floor, e.g., a floor of a vehicle, an aircraft, a watercraft. In other words, the deployed section of the support structure may be self-supporting or selfsupported.

[0026] Preferably, the cover layer is a continuous and / or uninterrupted layer.

[0027] The slats may have a width in a range of 4 mm to 50 mm, preferably 6 mm to 22 mm.

[0028] The slats may have a gap between adjacent slats of 0.1mm to 10 mm. Alternatively, there may not, or at least not substantially, be a gap between adjacent slats, e.g., adjacent slats may be in contact with each other. Preferably, the slats are each elongate along a width of the support structure, preferably in a direction which extends substantially perpendicularly to a length of the support structure and / or a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. Preferably, the slats extend along the entire width, or at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, preferably at least 90% of the width, of the support structure. This may increase the rigidity and / or strength and / or load bearing capabilities of the support structure at least along the width of the support structure.

[0029] Preferably, the slats are rigid or substantially rigid elements. The slats being rigid or substantially rigid elements means that the slats are not deformed or at least not substantially deformed under normal operating conditions of the system, more specifically the support structure.

[0030] The slats may be made of a wide range of different materials, preferably to provide rigid or substantially rigid slats. For instance, the slats may be made of wood, metal, plastic, etc. The slats may include different materials. For instance, at least a first section of the respective slat may be made of wood and / or a composite material, preferably a lightweight composite material (e.g. including at least one fibrous material and at least one polymer matrix; fibrous material - e.g. carbon fibers, glass fibers, aramid fibers, plant-based fibers, cellulose or cotton fibers, basalt fibers - polymer matrix - a thermoplastic or thermoset matrix - phenolic resin, melamine resin, polylactic acid, polyamide, Polyimid, Ultem), and / or a plastic or metal, preferably a high performance plastic or metal, and at least a second section of the respective slat may be made of a different type of material, e.g., a different type of plastic or metal, e.g., a high performance plastic or metal. This may allowthe properties of the slatsto beconfigured more precisely and / or a tradeoff of properties of the slats to be provided, e.g., a relatively light weight of the slats and a relatively low friction along a section of the slats, e.g., to facilitate sliding of one or more components (e.g., the reinforcing device described below), and / or increased strength along a section of the slats.

[0031] Preferably, the system further includes at least one guiding device configured to guide the support structure, preferably the slats, when the support structure is moved between the stowed position and the deployed position, i.e., while the support structure is moved between the stowed position and the deployed position. The support structure, preferably the slats, may include at least one channel, e.g., an alignment channel, configured to at least partially receive the guiding device. The interaction between the channel and the guiding device may guide the support structure, when the support structure is moved between the stowed position and the deployed position. Preferably, the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one reinforcing device configured to interconnect the slats in the deployed position to increase a rigidity of the support structure. Preferably the interconnecting mechanism is configured to deploy the reinforcing device, when the support structure is or has been moved into the deployed position. Preferably, the interconnecting mechanism is configured to retract the reinforcing device, when the support structure is or has been moved into the stowed position, in particular to release the interconnection of the slats. The reinforcing device may be a rod or an elongate strip of material.

[0032] The reinforcing device may be made of metal, e.g., aluminum, or plastic. Alternatively, or additionally, the reinforcing device may be made of a composite material, e.g., a fiber- reinforced composite material. The reinforcing device may be made of a spring steel, a copper alloy, and / or a fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0033] The reinforcing device may have a width of 20 mm to 200 mm, preferably 2 mm to 80 mm, and / or a thickness of 0.05 mm to 1 mm, preferably 0.07 to 0.25 mm.

[0034] Alternatively, the reinforcing device may be or may include one or more second slats, e.g., which may be configured to be at least partially inserted between gaps in the above- mentioned slats, referred to as first slats. The first slats may be the slats of a first component of the support structure and the second slats may be the slats of a second component of the support structure. The first component and the second component of the support structure are described below in more detail.

[0035] The reinforcing device may be arranged to engage with a side of the slats which is opposite from the cover layer and intermediate, e.g., with a bottom of the slats.

[0036] Preferably, the interconnecting mechanism is configured to store the reinforcing device in a stored position, preferably by at least bending or partially rolling up the reinforcing device, when the support structure is in the stowed position. This may allow the reinforcing device to be stored in a relatively compact manner. This may reduce the overall size of the system.

[0037] Preferably, the system is configured to at least partially bend and / or roll up the support structure in the stowed position. Preferably, at least a section of the support structure has a radius of no more than 50 cm, preferably no more than 40 cm, preferably no more than 30 cm, preferably no more than 25 cm, preferably no more than 20 cm, preferably no more than 15 cm. This may allow the support structure to be stowed in the stowed position in a relatively compact manner. The radius may be determined at an inner side of the support structure, with respect to a bent and / or rolled up state of the support structure.

[0038] Preferably, the support structure is configured to be bent and / or rolled up only in a single direction. This may allow the slats and / or gaps between adjacent slats to be specifically configured to increase a rigidity and / or a strength of the support structure, when the support structure is in the deployed position. For instance, the slats may be configured to be locked, preferably in a form-fitting manner, in a downwards direction, when the support structure is in the deployed position.

[0039] The system may include at least one housing in which the support structure is at least partially, preferably completely, receivable in the stowed position. The housing may be configured to receive at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, preferably at least 95%, of a length and / or a volume of the support structure, when the support structure is in the stowed position.

[0040] The housing may house one or more further components of the system in addition to the support structure (in the stowed position). For instance, the reinforcing device, and optionally a roll or spool on which the reinforcing device may be at least partially wound, may be at least partially housed in the housing, in particular at least when the support structure is in the stowed position.

[0041] Preferably, the interconnecting mechanism is configured to alter a cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device between the stored position of the reinforcing device and a state in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats. The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to store the reinforcing device in a rolled-up state, preferably in or on a spool.

[0042] Preferably, the interconnecting mechanism is configured to alter a cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device between a first state, in which the reinforcing device does not interconnect the slats and / or the reinforcing device is in the stored position and / or the reinforcing device is not deployed, and a second state in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats and / or is deployed. The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to actively alter the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device, i.e., by exerting a force into the reinforcing device. Alternatively, or additionally, the interconnecting mechanism may be configured to passively alter the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device, i.e., by allowing the reinforcing device to return to a certain cross-sectional shape, e.g., an innate or natural cross-sectional shape, of the reinforcing device. For instance, in a natural or innate state, in particular when the interconnecting mechanism does not exert any forces on the reinforcing device and / or when the reinforcing device is in a relaxed state, the reinforcing device may have a cross-sectional shape which is profiled and / or bent and / or curved and / or U-shaped and / or semi-circular. The profiled and / or bent and / or U-shaped cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device may increase a rigidity and / or strength of the reinforcing device. This natural or innate state of the reinforcing device may be used to increase a rigidity and / or strength of the support structure in the second state of the reinforcing device. The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to at least partially flatten the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device, in particular towards a substantially flat cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device, in the first state. This may reduce the rigidity of the reinforcing device to facilitate retracting and / or storing the reinforcing device, e.g., in a spool. For instance, the interconnecting mechanism may be configured to actively alter the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device from the second state to the first state and passively alter the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device from the first state to the second state or vice versa.

[0043] Preferably, the reinforcing device is configured as a spring or spring-like element. In other words, at least a section of the reinforcing device may have a spring constant which provides a spring function. This may prevent the reinforcing device from breaking, or at least reduce the risk thereof, and / or may facilitate altering a cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device to alter properties of the reinforcing device during operation, e.g., as described above. For instance, the reinforcing device may be biased in or towards a profiled and / or bent and / or curved and / or U-shaped cross-sectional shape, e.g., when the reinforcing device extends straight or substantially straight, i.e., when the reinforcing device is in the second state in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats and / or is deployed.

[0044] Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device is bent in the state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats, to a greater extent than in the stored position and / or when the reinforcing device is not deployed. Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device is substantially flat, when the reinforcing device is in the stored position and / or is not deployed.

[0045] Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device is U-shaped or substantially U- shaped and / or semi-circular when the reinforcing device interconnects the slats.

[0046] Preferably, the slats have a cross-sectional shape which is rectangular, trapezoidal or of a complex shape.

[0047] Preferably, the slats include at least one channel or recess in which the reinforcing device is receivable in the deployed position of the support structure. This may guide the reinforcing device along the slats, when the reinforcing device is deployed. The interconnecting mechanism may include an insert connected to a respective slat of the slats. The channel or recess may be defined in the insert. The insert may be made of a material and / or may be configured, e.g., processed and / or finished, to have a relatively high or a relatively low friction at least along the channel or recess. A relatively low friction along the channel or recess may facilitate sliding of the reinforcing device along the channel or recess, in particular when the reinforcing device is deployed. A relatively high friction along the channel or recess may prevent the insert from slipping out of the channel or recess during the use of the support structure.

[0048] Preferably, the reinforcing device extends along a length, preferably the entire length, of the support structure, preferably along a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0049] Preferably, the interconnecting mechanism includes a plurality of the at least one reinforcing device. The reinforcing devices may be distributed and / or spaced apart along a width of the support structure and / or in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to a length of the support structure and / or perpendicular to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. This may increase the rigidity and / or load-bearing capabilities of the support structure and / or allow a usable area of the support structure to be increased.

[0050] Preferably, the support structure includes a first component which includes a plurality of slats and a second component which includes a plurality of slats. The slats of the first component and the slats of the second component may be configured identical or similar (i.e., the slats may share at least some features) to any of the slats described herein, e.g., described above. The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to interconnect the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component such that the slats of the first component are at least partially received in respective gaps between adjacent slats of the second component and / or such that the slats of the second component are at least partially received in respective gaps between adjacent slats of the first component, preferably in an alternating manner (i.e., the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component may be alternatingly arranged in series). The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to at least partially separate the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component to at least partially release the interconnection of the slats caused by the interconnecting mechanism, when the support structure is in or is moved towards the stowed position. This may increase a rigidity and / or a stiffness and / or the load-bearing capabilities of the support structure in the deployed position, while allowing the support structure to be stowed in a relatively compact manner in the stowed position, in particular by increasing, compared with the deployed position, a bendability and / or a flexibility of the support structure in the stowed position.

[0051] The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to interconnect the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component in a zipper-like manner or zipper-type manner.

[0052] The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to successively and / or consecutively interconnect the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component, i.e., one after another, preferably from a distal end of the support structure towards a proximal end of the support structure and / or in a direction which is opposite to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0053] The system may be configured to store the first component and the second component at least partially separately, i.e., such that the first component and the second component are at least partially separated, in the stowed position.

[0054] The slats may have a profile which includes a base connected, e.g., glued, to the intermediate layer and a structure and / or cross-section which may be rectangular and / or stepped, or more complex with one or more rounded corners and one or more interlocking, e.g., tongue and groove, profiles. The stepped structure and the additional interlocking, e.g., tongue and groove, joints may enable a more stable form-fitting connection of the slats, depending on the materials used and the intended loads.

[0055] Adjacent slats of the first component may be distanced from each other by a first gap and adjacent slats of the second component may be distanced from each other by a second gap. The first gap may be identical to the second gap or may be greater than or smaller than the second gap. This may provide the first component and the second component with different properties, in particular with respect to stowing or storing the first component and the second component and / or a strength or rigidity of the first component and the second component. For instance, a greater gap may allow the respective component to be bent to a greater degree, e.g., to stow the respective component in a more compact manner. A smaller gap may provide a greater strength and / or rigidity to the respective component, in particular when the support structure is in the deployed position.

[0056] The first component may be bendable at a smaller or greater radius than the second component. The radius may be determined at an inner side of the respective component, with respect to a bent and / or rolled up state of the respective component.

[0057] The slats may have a gap between adjacent slats of 0.1 mm to 10 mm. Alternatively, there may not be a gap between adjacent slats, e.g., adjacent slats may be in contact with and / or abut each other.

[0058] The slats of the first component may include one or more first engagement element, e.g., one or more tongues or projections, configured to engage, preferably interlock! ngly engage, with one or more second engagement elements, e.g., one or more grooves or recesses, of the slats of the second component, to interconnect the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component.

[0059] Preferably, the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one interconnecting or urging device configured to urge the slats of the first component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the second component and / or urge the slats of the second component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the first component. This may facilitate interconnecting the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component. For instance, the system may include a first guide element, e.g., a guide rail, configured to guide the first component and a second guide element, e.g., a guide rail, configured to guide the second component between the deployed position and the stowed position. The first guide element and the second guide element may converge and / or may be arranged, e.g., routed, such that the first component and the second component converge to an area in which the slats of the first component engage and interconnect with the slats of the second component. For instance, a gap between the first guide element and the second guide element and / or between the first component and the second component may successively become smaller towards the area in which the slats of the first component engage and interconnect with the slats of the second component. Alternatively, or additionally, the system may include a gap or opening through which the first component and the second component at least partially pass, when the support structure is moved from the stowed position to the deployed position and vice versa. The gap or opening may be dimensioned such that, as the first component and the second component pass through the gap or opening, the first component and the second component are urged towards each other to urge the slats of the first component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the second component a nd / or urge the slats of the second component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the first component.

[0060] Preferably, the first component includes the cover layer and the intermediate layer. The intermediate layer may be attached to the slats of the first component. The second component may include at least one bottom layer which is attached to the slats of the second component. In other words, the first component may be a top section of the support structure and the second component may be a bottom section of the support structure, when the support structure is in the deployed position. Thus, the top section and the bottom section of the support structure, i.e., the first component and the second component, may be assembled when or as the support structure is deployed towards or brought into the deployed position.

[0061] Preferably, the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one guiding device configured to guide the first component and the second component, when the support structure is moved between the deployed position and the stowed position. The slats of the first component and / or the slats of the second component, or at least some of the slats of the first component and / or some of the slats of the second component, may include one or more alignment channels configured to at least partially receive the guiding device, at least while the support structure is being extended from the stowed position to the deployed position. This may allow the first component and the second component to be aligned with respect to each other, which may facilitate deploying and / or retracting the support structure.

[0062] Preferably, in the deployed position, the support structure has a length, which preferably extends in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, preferably at least 60 cm, preferably at least 70 cm, preferably at least 80 cm, preferably at least 90 cm, preferably at least 100 cm, preferably at least 110 cm, preferably at least 120 cm, preferably at least 130 cm, preferably at least 140 cm, preferably at least 150 cm, preferably at least 200 cm.

[0063] Preferably, in the deployed position, the support structure has a length, which preferably extends in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of no more than 20 cm, preferably no more than 30 cm, preferably no more than 40 cm, preferably no more than 50 cm, preferably no more than 60 cm, preferably no more than 70 cm, preferably no more than 80 cm, preferably no more than 90 cm, preferably no more than 100 cm, preferably no more than 110 cm, preferably no more than 120 cm, preferably no more than 130 cm, preferably no more than 140 cm, preferably no more than 150 cm, preferably no more than 200 cm.

[0064] Preferably, in the deployed position, the support structure has a width, which preferably extends perpendicularly to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, preferably at least 60 cm, preferably at least 70 cm, preferably at least 80 cm, preferably at least 90 cm, preferably at least 100 cm, preferably at least 110 cm, preferably at least 120 cm preferably at least 130 cm, preferably at least 140 cm, preferably at least 150 cm, preferably at least 200 cm.

[0065] Preferably, in the deployed position, the support structure has a width, which preferably extends in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of no more than 20 cm, preferably no more than 30 cm, preferably no more than 40 cm, preferably no more than 50 cm, preferably no more than 60 cm, preferably no more than 70 cm, preferably no more than 80 cm, preferably no more than 90 cm, preferably no more than 100 cm, preferably no more than 110 cm, preferably no more than 120 cm, preferably no more than 130 cm, preferably no more than 140 cm, preferably no more than 150 cm, preferably no more than 200 cm, preferably no more than 210 cm.

[0066] Preferably, at least in the deployed position, the support structure has a thickness of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 2.5 cm, preferably at least 3 cm, preferably at least 3.5 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, preferably at least 4.5 cm, preferably at least 5 cm, preferably at least 6 cm, preferably at least 7 cm, preferably at least 8 cm, preferably at least 9 cm, preferably at least 10 cm.

[0067] Preferably, at least in the deployed position, the support structure has a thickness of no more than 10 cm, preferably no more than 5 cm, preferably no more than 4.5 cm, preferably no more than 4 cm, preferably no more than 3.5 cm, preferably no more than 3 cm, preferably no more than 2.5 cm, preferably no more than 2 cm.

[0068] Preferably, in the deployed position, the support structure is configured to bear a total weight of one or more items of at least 5 kg, preferably at least 7.5 kg, preferably at least 10 kg, preferably at least 12.5 kg, preferably at least 15 kg, preferably at least 17.5 kg, preferably at least 20 kg, preferably at least 30 kg, preferably at least 40 kg. Alternatively, or additionally, in the deployed position, the support structure, e.g., a table element or a wall or a divider, may be configured to bear a total weight of the one or more items in compliance with EASA CM No.: CM-S-009 Issue 01 issued October 17, 2018.

[0069] Preferably, in the deployed position, the support structure is configured to bear a static load of at least 15 kg, preferably at least 20 kg, preferably at least 22.5 kg, preferably at least 25 kg of the one or more items, in particular at a distal section of the support structure, in particular with an area of the top surface of the support structure of approximately 68 cm x 68 cm, in particular with the slats being made of aluminum, in particular with a maximum downward deflection of the support structure of 100 mm, preferably of 90 mm, preferably of 80 mm, preferably of 70 mm, preferably of 60 mm, preferably of 50 mm, preferably of 40 mm, preferably of 30 mm, preferably of 20 mm, preferably of 15 mm, preferably of 10 mm.

[0070] Preferably, the system is configured to meet the requirements of EASA CM No.: CM-S-009 Issue 01 issued October 17, 2018, This may also apply for the support structure, as defined herein more generally, e.g., in case the support structure is a vertical, extendable wall or a divider element, rather than a support structure, configured for use in an aircraft.

[0071] Preferably, the system is at least partially made of flame-retardant materials and / or has at least partially been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents. This may allow or increase the suitability of the system to be used in environments in which a fire-hazard may exist, e.g., in a vehicle, an aircraft, a watercraft, etc.

[0072] Preferably, the system is configured to pass the vertical-burn test. The vertical burn test may be performed as defined by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), more specifically in CFR Title 14, Subchapter C, Appendix F to Part 25, Part I (a)(l)(i) in connection with CFR Title 14, Subchapter C, Appendix F to Part 25, Part I (b)(4), also known as the 60 second vertical burn test. Additionally, or alternatively, the vertical burn test may be performed pursuant to CFR Title 14, Subchapter C, Appendix F to Part 25, Part I (a)(1)(h) in connection with CFR Title 14, Subchapter C, Appendix F to Part 25, Part I (b)(4), also known as the 12 second vertical burn test. The version of the above-identified Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) which is in force as of July 26, 2024 is to be applied.

[0073] Preferably, at least the slats, the cover layer, the intermediate layer, the interconnecting and reinforcing mechanisms are at least partially made of flame-retardant materials and / or have at least partially been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents.

[0074] The flame-retardant agents may include a phosphorous P-type, a nitrogen N-type and / or a P- N-type flame retardant.

[0075] A P type flame retardant refers to a flame retardant which includes at least one phosphorus compound and / or at least one nitrogen phosphorus compound.

[0076] An N type flame retardant refers to a flame retardant which includes at least one nitrogen compound and / or at least one nitrogen phosphorus compound.

[0077] A P-N type flame retardant refers to a flame retardant which includes: at least one nitrogen phosphorus compound, and / or at least one phosphorus compound and at least one nitrogen compound.

[0078] The term "nitrogen phosphorus compound" means that said compound includes phosphorus and nitrogen within one molecule or chemical species - such as organic amino phosphate, aminomethylphosphonate or the like.

[0079] Suitable and / or advantageous flame retardants or agents may also include one or more of the following: aluminium hydroxide, zinc borate, borate, one or more further borate compounds, ammonium monophosphate, ammonium polyphosphate, aluminum hydroxide, ammonium polyphosphate, calcium carbonate, gypsum, calcium sulfate hemihydrate, organic phosphonic acid ester, such as CAS No. 3001-98-7.

[0080] The phosphorus compound may include one or more of the following phosphates: phosphate, phosphoric acid organic phosphate, e.g., alkyl phosphate oligomer, such as, CAS No. 184538- 58-7, triethyl ester of phosphoric acid, aromatic phosphate ester, phosphorus polyol, OH - terminated phosphorus polyol, diphenyl phenyl phosphate (DPK), cresyl diphenyl phosphate (CDP), TCPP tris(l-chloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TCPP), triethyl phosphate (TEP), Tris(2- chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), Diphenyl tolyl phosphate, and Diphenylcresyl phosphate (DPK).

[0081] Alternatively, or additionally, the phosphorus compounds may include one or more of the following phosphonates: inorganic phosphonate, organic phosphonic acid ester, and organic phosphonate.

[0082] Preferably, the one or more phosphonates are halogen free, e.g., dimethyl propyl phosphonate (DMPP), methyl phosphonic acid, diethyl ethyl phosphonate (DEEP), and dimethyl methyl phosphonate (DMMP). Alternatively, or additionally the flame retardant(s) include at least one nitrogen compound, such as at least one of ammonia and its salts, a primary amine, such as monoethanolamine, a secondary amine, a tertiary amine and its salts, derivates of urea and melamine and its salts, melamine cyanurate, and amidinourea and its salts.

[0083] The nitrogen phosphorus compound may include one or more of the following: amino phosphate, amino phosphonate, ammonium polyphosphate, ammonium phosphate, organic amino phosphate, even more preferably organic amino phosphonate (e.g. Diethyl -bis(2- hydroxyethyl), aminomethylphosphonate, salt of amines, urea-derivates with phosphorcontaining acids, and salt of urea derivates with organic phosphonic ester.

[0084] Preferably, the flame retardant(s) and / or agents is / are substantially free of halogenides, more preferably free of organic halogenides and is / are free of boron, its salts, and compounds.

[0085] Preferably, the intermediate layer is configured to absorb one or more forces and / or stress, preferably including shear stress, in particular which act(s) between adjacent slats and / or between the cover layer and the slats and / or tensile stress and / or stress which may be caused by the weight of the support structure and additional loads or forces.

[0086] Preferably, the intermediate layer may be made of or may include one or more of the following: fabric, preferably a woven fabric, a foam material, a textile, a fabric or nonwoven material which includes a plurality of natural and / or synthetic fibers which are preferably arranged unidirectionally, linen, cotton, cellulose fibers, e.g., viscose fibers, acrylic fibers, fibers of halogenated polymers, preferably fluoropolymers, polypropylene fibers, polyamide fibers, polyester fibers, glass fibers, aramid fibers, or carbon fibers, a fabric made of continuous fibers, preferably with a tensile strength of at least 40 MPa, preferably at least 80 MPa, preferably at least 100 MPa, preferably at least 150 MPa, preferably at least 200 MPa, preferably at least 250 MPa, preferably at least 300 MPa, preferably at least 400 MPa, preferably at least 500 MPa, preferably at least 600 MPa, preferably at least 700 MPa, preferably at least 800 MPa, preferably at least 900 MPa, preferably at least 1000 MPa, preferably at least 1100 MPa, a material which includes a plurality of fibers, such as any of the aforementioned fibers, which are embedded in a matrix material, such as a 2-component epoxy resin, preferably a matrix material with an elongation at break in a range from 20% to 75%.

[0087] Preferably, the intermediate layer is made of or includes a foam material which may be a flexible foam made of materials based on, for example, polyolefins such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), an acrylic, polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyester variants, nitrile butadiene rubber or any other thermoplastic foam and / or flame retardant foam, for example polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyether imide (PEI), polyethersulfone (PESU), polyphenyl sulfone (PPSU).

[0088] The intermediate layer may be adhesively attached to the slats and / or the cover layer. The adhesive may be or may include polyurethane, polycondendate resin (e.g. containing phenol, melamine resin, melamine urea resin), polyvinyl acetate, silicone, epoxy or neoprene adhesive, or a hotmelt, for example. The intermediate layer may be self-adhesive, in particular towards the slats and / or the cover layer.

[0089] Preferably, the intermediate layer has an elongation of less than 5%, particularly preferably less than 2%, in particular with a tensile load of 80 to 100 MPa, in particular with a tensile load of 100 MPa, in particular during operation of the system, more particularly the support structure, in particular when the support structure is in the deployed position. The intermediate layer preferably has a tensile strength greater than 40 MPa, preferably greater than 80 MPa, preferably greater than 100 MPa, preferably greater than 150 MPa, preferably greater than 200 MPa, preferably greater than 250 MPa, preferably greater than 300 MPa, preferably greater than 400 MPa, preferably greater than 500 MPa, preferably greater than 600 MPa, preferably greater than 700 MPa, preferably greater than 800 MPa, preferably greater than 900 MPa, preferably greater than 1000 MPa, preferably greater than 1100 MPa.

[0090] Preferably, the intermediate layer has a thickness in a range from 0.5 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 0,6 mm to 2.0 mm.

[0091] Preferably, the cover layer is made of or includes one or more of the following: a veneer, preferably a real wood veneer, laminate, preferably a rollable laminate, a plastic foil, leather, an artificial leather made of synthetic and / or vegetable raw materials, a leather-like material such as alcantara, a textile, a fabric, a decorative paper, a cardboard, a metal or metal foil, e.g. made of aluminum, a stone, carbon, one or more colored coatings.

[0092] Plastic foils, which may be included in the cover layer, may include or be made of, for example, one or more of the following: polyolefin such as polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene (PS), various polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), polyurethane, copolymers such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), bio-based plastics such as polylactide (PLA), cellulose acetate or starch blends, one or more composite films, or combinations or composites thereof. Composite films, which may be included in the cover layer, may include or be made of ABS / PMMA films (e.g., Senosan® films), PMMA / PVDF films, in high-gloss, matt or embossed versions, with or without antibacterial / antiviral finish, with or without anti-fingerprint finish.

[0093] The laminate(s), which may be included in the cover layer, may include or consist of decorative, kraft, and / or aramid papers and / or one or more resins in a composite structure. For example, laminate panels may be made with polycondensate resins (e.g. melamineformaldehyde, melamine urea formaldehyde, phenol or furfuryl formaldehyde resin) and decorative and kraft papers, in high-gloss, matt or super matt finishes, with or without antibacterial / antiviral, anti-fingerprint, scratch-resistant, flame-retardant or fire-resistant finishes.

[0094] Preferably, the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of or including one or more of the following: maple wood, birch wood, beech wood, oak, alder wood, pine wood, cherry wood, mahogany wood, walnut wood, teak wood, eucalyptus wood and a reconstituted (engineered) wood veneer.

[0095] Preferably, the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of real wood . A fiber grain of the real wood may extend in a direction along a length of the support structure and / or in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0096] Preferably, the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of real wood which has been treated by removing at least some of the lignin of the real wood and / or which has been treated by controllably introducing a plurality of cracks into the veneer. This may increase the flexibility and durability of the cover layer and / or the support structure, e.g., to facilitate altering a shape of the cover layer and / or the support structure, e.g., when moving the support structure to the stowed position. This may allow the support structure to be stowed in the stowed position in a relatively compact manner.

[0097] Preferably, at least some of the cracks extend in a direction which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a length of the support structure and / or perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position . This may increase the flexibility and / or durability of the cover layer and / or the support structure, e.g., to facilitate altering a shape of the cover layer and / or the support structure, e.g., when moving the support structure to the stowed position. This may allow the support structure to be stowed in the stowed position in a relatively compact manner.

[0098] Preferably, the cover layer has been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents. This may allow or increase the suitability of the system to be used in environments in which a firehazard may exit, e.g., in a vehicle, an aircraft, a watercraft, etc. Moreover, flame-retardant agents may act as softeners for the polymeric matrices and / or may increase the flexibility of the cover layer and / or the support structure, e.g., to facilitate altering a shape of the cover layer and / or the support structure, e.g., when moving the support structure to the stowed position. This may allow the support structure to be stowed in the stowed position in a relatively compact manner.

[0099] Preferably, the cover layer has a thickness in a range from 0.2 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 0,4 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0100] Preferably, the cover layer has been treated and / or at least partially covered with one or more of the following: a paint, a clear varnish, a n oil such as linseed oil or soybean oil or UV-post- cured oil coating, a polyurethane varnish, a polyester varnish, an acrylic coating, a flameretardant coating, a flame retardant agent containing coating, an antibacterial and / or antiviral coating, an anti-fingerprint coating, a scratch-resistant coating, a glossy coating, or a structured coating. This may allow the aesthetic appeal and / or one or more functions, e.g., an enhanced durability, of the cover layer to be increased. Preferably, the cover layer is relatively flexible. Preferably, the cover layer, or at least one or more components of the cover layer, has an E-modulus (tensile modulus, at a temperature of 20 to 25°C) of 3 to 100 N / mm2, preferably 10 to 100 N / mm2. Alternatively, the cover layer, or at least one or more components of the cover layer, e.g., a paint and / or a varnish, may have an E-modulus (tensile modulus, at a temperature of 20° C to 25° C) of 100 N / mm2to 500 N / mm2. This may provide the cover layer with sufficient flexibility, while increasing the hardness and / or resistance of the cover layer, i.e., this may provide an improved balance between flexibility and hardness and / or resistance of the cover layer.

[0101] Preferably, the slats are made of a solid material or are at least partially hollow.

[0102] Preferably, the support structure is configured for use in an interior of an aircraft, a watercraft, preferably a yacht, and / or a vehicle.

[0103] Preferably, the system is configured to at least partially roll up the support structure, when the support structure is in the stowed position. Preferably, the system is configured to at least partially unroll the support structure when the support structure is brought from the stowed position into the deployed position.

[0104] The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle, preferably an aircraft, a watercraft, a train, a mobile home, or a building or a space, which has an interior in which at least one system according to any of the embodiments described herein is arranged. The features, configurations and / or advantages described above in relation to the system also apply to the vehicle accordingly.

[0105] The object set out at the beginning is also solved by a method of manufacturing a system, preferably the system according to any of the embodiments described herein. The features, configurations, and advantages described above in relation to the system also apply to the method accordingly.

[0106] The system may include at least one support structure configured to support one or more items which are placed on the support structure. The support structure may be configured to be extendible from a stowed position, in which the support structure is at least partially stowable, to a deployed position, in which the one or more items can be placed on and supported by the support structure.

[0107] The method may include: arranging a plurality of individual slats, preferably in series.

[0108] The method may include: attaching at least one intermediate layer to the slats.

[0109] The method may include: attaching at least one cover layer to the intermediate layer, preferably such that the intermediate layer is arranged at least partially between the cover layer and the slats. The cover layer may define a top surface of the support structure on and / or against which the one or more items are placeable.

[0110] The method may include: providing at least one interconnecting mechanism configured to at least partially interconnect the slats in the deployed position to increase a rigidity of the support structure. The interconnecting mechanism may be configured to at least partially release the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism in the stowed position.

[0111] The following list of aspects provides alternative and / or further features of the present disclosure:

[0112] 1. A system including at least one support structure, preferably wherein the support structure is configured to bear a load of one or more items exerted on and / or against the support structure, preferably wherein the support structure is configured for use in an interior of an aircraft, a watercraft, a train and / or a vehicle and / or a space, the support structure including: a plurality of slats, preferably individual slats, wherein the slat are preferably arranged in series; at least one cover layer which defines an engagement surface, preferably a top surface, of the support structure which engages with the one or more items, when the support structure bears the load of one or more items; at least one intermediate layer arranged at least partially between the cover layer and the slats, wherein the intermediate layer is attached to the slats and the cover layer, wherein the support structure is configured to be extendible from a stowed position, in which the support structure is at least partially stowable, to a deployed position, in which the one or more items can be placed on and supported by the support structure; optionally wherein the support structure includes at least one interconnecting mechanism configured to at least partially interconnect the slats in the deployed position to increase a rigidity of the support structure, preferably wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to at least partially release the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism and / or at least partially reduce a rigidity and / or a stiffness of the interconnection provided by the interconnecting mechanism in the stowed position.

[0113] 2. The system of aspect 1, wherein the support structure is a table element.

[0114] 3. The system of aspect 1, wherein the support structure is a wall element or a divider element.

[0115] 4. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the support structure is cantilevered in the deployed position. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the cover layer is a continuous and / or uninterrupted layer. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the slats are each elongate, preferably in a direction which extends substantially perpendicularly to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the slats are rigid or substantially rigid elements. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one reinforcing device configured to interconnect the slats in the deployed position to increase a rigidity of the support structure, preferably wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to retract the reinforcing device, when the support structure is or has been moved into the stowed position, in particular to release the interconnection of the slats. The system of aspect 8, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to store the reinforcing device in a stored position, preferably by at least partially rolling up the reinforcing device, when the support structure is in the stowed position. The system of aspect 8 or 9, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to alter a cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device between the stored position of the reinforcing device and a state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats. The system of any of aspect 10, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device, preferably in a cross-section which is substantially perpendicular to a length and / or a longitudinal axis of the support structure and / or of a direction of movement of the support structure between the stowed position and the deployed position, is bent in the state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats, to a greater extent than in the stored position. The system of aspect 10 or 11, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device is U-shaped in the state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats. The system of any of aspects 8 to 12, wherein the slats include at least one channel in which the reinforcing device is receivable in the deployed position of the support structure. The system of any of aspects 8 to 13, wherein the reinforcing device extends along a length, preferably the entire length, of the support structure, preferably along a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The system of any of aspects 8 to 14, wherein the reinforcing device is configured as a spring or spring-like element. The system of any of aspects 8 to 15, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes a plurality of the at least one reinforcing device, wherein the reinforcing devices are distributed and / or spaced apart in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to a length of the support structure and / or perpendicular to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The system of any of aspects 8 to 16, wherein the reinforcing device is biased towards a cross-sectional shape which is profiled and / or curved and / or U-shaped, at least when the reinforcing device is straight and / or when the reinforcing device is in a state in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats. The system of any of the preceding aspects, further including at least one guiding device configured to guide the support structure, preferably the slats, when the support structure is moved between the stowed position and the deployed position. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the support structure includes a first component which includes a plurality of slats and a second component which includes a plurality of slats, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to interconnect the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component such that the slats of the first component are at least partially received in respective gaps between adjacent slats of the second component and / or such that the slats of the second component are at least partially received in respective gaps between adjacent slats of the first component, preferably such that the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component are a Iternatingly arranged in series. The system of aspect 19, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one interconnecting device configured to urge the slats of the first component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the second component and / or urge the slats of the second component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the first component. The system of aspect 19 or 20, wherein the first component includes the cover layer and the intermediate layer, wherein the intermediate layer is attached to the slats of the first component, wherein the second component includes at least one bottom layer which is, preferably directly or preferably via another intermediate layer, attached to the slats of the second component. The system of any of aspects 19 to 21, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one guiding device configured to guide the first component and the second component, wherein the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component each include a channel, preferably an alignment channel, configured to at least partially receive the guiding device, at least while the support structure is being extended from the stowed position to the deployed position. The system of any of aspects 19 to 22, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to interconnect the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component in a zipper-like manner or zipper-type manner. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein, in the deployed position, the support structure has a length, which preferably extends in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, preferably at least 60 cm, preferably at least 70 cm, preferably at least 80 cm, preferably at least 90 cm, preferably at least 100 cm, preferably at least 110 cm, preferably at least 120 cm, preferably at least 130 cm, preferably at least 140 cm, preferably at least 150 cm, preferably at least 200 cm. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein, in the deployed position, the support structure has a width, which preferably extends perpendicularly to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, preferably at least 60 cm, preferably at least 70 cm, preferably at least 80 cm, preferably at least 90 cm, preferably at least 100 cm, preferably at least 110 cm, preferably at least 120 cm preferably at least 130 cm, preferably at least 140 cm, preferably at least 150 cm, preferably at least 200 cm. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein, at least in the deployed position, the support structure has a thickness of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 2.5 cm, preferably at least 3 cm, preferably at least 3.5 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, preferably at least 4.5 cm, preferably at least 5 cm, preferably at least 6 cm, preferably at least 7 cm, preferably at least 8 cm, preferably at least 9 cm, preferably at least 10 cm. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein, at least in the deployed position, the support structure has a thickness of no more than 10 cm, 5 cm, preferably no more than 4.5 cm, preferably no more than 4 cm, preferably no more than 3.5 cm, preferably no more than 3 cm, preferably no more than 2.5 cm, preferably no more than 2 cm. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein, in the deployed position, the support structure is configured to bear a total weight of one or more items of at least 5 kg, preferably at least 10 kg, preferably at least 15 kg, preferably at least 20 kg, preferably at least 30 kg, preferably at least 40 kg. Alternatively, or additionally, in the deployed position, the support structure, or more generally a wall or a divider, may be configured to bear a total weight of the one or more items in compliance with EASA CM No.: CM-S-009 Issue 01 issued October 17, 2018. This also applies for support structures, as defined herein more generally, e.g. in case the support structure is a wall element, in particular a vertical or oblique extendable wall or a divider element rather than a table element , in which case the support structure may be configured to bear a horizontal and / or a vertical load in compliance with EASA CM No.: CM-S-009 Issue 01 issued October 17, 2018; and / or a total weight of at least 5 kg, preferably at least 10 kg, preferably at least 15 kg, preferably at least 20 kg, preferably at least 30 kg, preferably at least 40 kg. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the system is at least partially made of flame-retardant materials and / or has at least partially been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the system is configured to pass the vertical-burn test. 1 The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein at least the slats, the cover layer, and the intermediate layer are at least partially made of flame-retardant materials and / or have at least partially been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the intermediate layer is configured to absorb one or more forces and / or stress, preferably including shear stress, in particular which act(s) between adjacent slats and / or between the cover layer and the slats, and including tensile stress and / or stress caused by the weight of the support structure. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the intermediate layer is made of or includes one or more of the following: fabric, preferably a woven fabric, a foam material, a textile, a fabric or nonwoven material which includes a plurality of natural and / or synthetic fibers which are preferably arranged unidirectionally, linen, cotton, cellulose fibers, e.g., viscose fibers, acrylic fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyamide fibers polyester fibers, glass fibers, aramid fibers, or carbon fibers, a fabric made of continuous fibers, preferably with a tensile strength of at least 40 MPa, more preferably of at least 80 MPa, at least 100 MPa, at least 150 MPa, at least 200 MPa, at least 250 MPa, at least 300 MPa, at least 400 MPa, at least 500 MPa, at least 600 MPa, at least 700 MPa, at least 800 MPa, at least 900 MPa, at least 1000 MPa, at least 1100 MPa, a material which includes a plurality of fibers, such as any of the aforementioned fibers, which are embedded in a matrix material, such as a 2-component epoxy resin, preferably a matrix material with an elongation at break in a range from 20% to 75%. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the intermediate layer has an elongation of less than 5%, particularly preferably less than 2%, and preferably a tensile strength greater than 40 MPa, 80 MPa, preferably greater than 100 MPa, preferably greater than 150 MPa, preferably greater than 200 MPa, preferably greater than 250 MPa, preferably greater than 300 MPa, preferably greater than 400 MPa, preferably greater than 500 MPa, preferably greater than 600 MPa, preferably greater than 700 MPa, preferably greater than 800 MPa, preferably greater than 900 MPa, preferably greater than 1000 MPa, preferably greater than 1100 MPa. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the intermediate layer has a thickness in a range from 0.05 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 0.6 mm to 2.0 mm. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes one or more of the following: a veneer, preferably a real wood veneer, laminate, preferably a rollable laminate, a plastic foil, leather, an artificial leather made of synthetic and / or vegetable raw materials, a leather-like material such as alcantara, a textile, a fabric, a decorative paper, a cardboard, a metal or metal foil, e.g. made of aluminum, a stone, carbon, one or more essentially transparent or colored coatings and / or a varnish, preferably an oil coating, preferably a UV-post-cured oil coating. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of or including one or more of the following: maple wood, birch wood, beech wood, oak, alder wood, pine wood, cherry wood, mahogany wood, walnut wood, teak wood, eucalyptus wood, a reconstituted wood veneer (e.g. a recon veneer from Alpi). The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of real wood, wherein a fiber grain of the real wood extends in a direction along a length of the support structure and / or in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of real wood: which has been treated by removing at least some of the lignin of the real wood; and / or which has been treated by controllably introducing a plurality of cracks into the veneer, preferably wherein at least some of the cracks extend in a direction which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a length of the support structure and / or perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position; and / or which has been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the cover layer has a thickness in a range from 0.2 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 0,4 mm to 1.0 mm. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the cover layer has been treated and / or at least partially covered with one or more of the following: a paint, preferably a paint and / or a varnish which is relatively flexible, preferably a material, preferably a paint and / or a varnish, which has an E-modulus (tensile modulus, preferably at a temperature of 20° C to 25° C) of 3 to 500 N / mm2, preferably 10 to 500 N / mm2, preferably 10 to 100 N / mm2, a clear varnish, a wood oil such as linseed oil or soybean oil, a polyurethane varnish, a polyester varnish, an acrylic coating, a flame-retardant coating, an antibacterial and / or antiviral coating, a glossy coating, or a structured coating. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the slats are made of a solid material or are at least partially hollow. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the slats have a cross-sectional shape which is rectangular, trapezoidal or of a complex shape, preferably wherein the slats include one or more recesses and / or one or more tongues and / or one or more projections and / or one or more curves. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the support structure is configured for use in an interior of an aircraft, a watercraft, preferably a yacht, and / or a vehicle, a train, a mobile home, space and / or a building. The system of any of the preceding aspects, further including at least one powered, preferably electrically powered, drive unit configured to drive the support structure between the stowed position and the deployed position. The system of aspect 45, further including at least one user interface, preferably including at least one button or touch sensor, configured to receive one or more commands from a user to operate the drive unit. The system of any of the preceding aspects, wherein the system is configured to at least partially roll up the support structure, when the support structure is in the stowed position, preferably wherein the system is configured to at least partially unroll the support structure when the support structure is brought into the deployed position. A vehicle, preferably an aircraft or a watercraft, having an interior in which at least one system according to any of the preceding aspects is arranged. A method of manufacturing a system, preferably the system according to any of aspects 1 to 47, which includes at least one support structure configured to bear a load of one or more objects and / or items exerted on and / or against the support structure, preferably wherein the support structure is configured for use in an interior of an aircraft, a watercraft, and / or a vehicle, wherein the support structure is configured to be extendible from a stowed position, in which the support structure is at least partially stowable, to a deployed position, in which the one or more items can be placed on and supported by the support structure, wherein the method includes: arranging a plurality of individual slats series; attaching at least one intermediate layer to the slats, attaching at least one cover layer to the intermediate layer, preferably such that the intermediate layer is arranged at least partially between the cover layer and the slats, preferably wherein the cover layer defines a top surface of the support structure on and / or against which the one or more items are placeable; providing at least one interconnecting mechanism configured to at least partially interconnect the slats in the deployed position to establish and / or increase a rigidity of the support structure, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to at least partially release the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism in the stowed position. The method of aspect 49, wherein the support structure is a table element. The method of aspect 49, wherein the support structure is a wall element or a divider element. The method of any of aspects 49 to 51, wherein the support structure is cantilevered in the deployed position. The method of aspect 49 or 52, wherein the cover layer is a continuous and / or uninterrupted layer. The method of any of aspects 49 to 53, wherein the slats are each elongate, preferably in a direction which extends substantially perpendicularly to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The method of any of aspects 49 to 54, wherein the slats are rigid and / or stiff elements. The method of any of aspects 49 to 55, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one reinforcing device configured to interconnect the slats in the deployed position to increase a rigidity of the support structure, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to at least partially disconnect the reinforcing device from the slats in the stowed position. The method of aspect 56, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to store the reinforcing device in a stored position, preferably by at least partially rolling up the reinforcing device, when the support structure is in the stowed position. The method of aspect 56 or 57, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to alter a cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device between the stored position of the reinforcing device and a state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats. The method of any of aspect 58, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device is bent in the state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats, to a greater extent than in the stored position. The method of aspect 58 or 59, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device is U-shaped and / or semi-circular in the state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats. The method of any of aspects 56 to 60, wherein the slats include at least one channel in which the reinforcing device is receivable in the deployed position of the support structure. The method of any of aspects 56 to 61, wherein the reinforcing device extends along a length, preferably the entire length, of the support structure, preferably along a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The method of any of aspects 56 to 62, wherein the reinforcing device is configured as a spring or spring-like element. The method of any of aspects 56 to 63, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes a plurality of the at least one reinforcing device, wherein the reinforcing devices are distributed and / or spaced apart in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to a length of the support structure and / or perpendicular to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The method of any of aspects 56 to 64, wherein the reinforcing device is biased towards a cross-sectional shape which is profiled and / or curved and / or U-shaped, at least when the reinforcing device is straight and / or when the reinforcing device is in a state in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats. The method of any of aspects 49 to 65, wherein the support structure includes a first component which includes a plurality of slats and a second component which includes a plurality of slats, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to interconnect the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component such that the slats of the first component are at least partially received in respective gaps between adjacent slats of the second component and / or such that the slats of the second component are at least partially received in respective gaps between adjacent slats of the first component, preferably such that the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component are alternatingly arranged in series. The method of aspect 66, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one interconnecting device configured to urge the slats of the first component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the second component and / or urge the slats of the second component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the first component. The method of aspect 66 or 67, wherein the first component includes the cover layer and the intermediate layer, wherein the intermediate layer is attached to the slats of the first component, wherein the second component includes at least one bottom layer which is attached to the slats of the second component. The method of any of aspects 66 to 68, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one guiding device configured to guide the first component and the second component, wherein slats of the first component and the slats of the second component each include an alignment channel configured to at least partially receive the guiding device, at least while the support structure is being extended from the stowed position to the deployed position. The method of any of aspects 49 to 69, wherein, in the deployed position, the support structure has a length, which preferably extends in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, preferably at least 60 cm, preferably at least 70 cm, preferably at least 80 cm, preferably at least 90 cm, preferably at least 100 cm, preferably at least 110 cm, preferably at least 120 cm, preferably at least 130 cm, preferably at least 140 cm, preferably at least 150 cm, preferably at least 200 cm. The method of any of aspects 49 to 70, wherein, in the deployed position, the support structure has a width, which preferably extends perpendicularly to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, preferably at least 60 cm, preferably at least 70 cm, preferably at least 80 cm, preferably at least 90 cm, preferably at least 100 cm, preferably at least 110 cm, preferably at least 120 cm preferably at least 130 cm, preferably at least 140 cm, preferably at least 150 cm, preferably at least 200 cm. The method of any of aspects 49 to 71, wherein, at least in the deployed position, the support structure has a thickness of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 2.5 cm, preferably at least 3 cm, preferably at least 3.5 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, preferably at least 4.5 cm, preferably at least 5 cm, preferably at least 6 cm, preferably at least 7 cm, preferably at least 8 cm, preferably at least 9 cm, preferably at least 10 cm . The method of any of aspects 49 to 72, wherein, at least in the deployed position, the support structure has a thickness of no more than 10 cm, no more than 5 cm, preferably no more than 4.5 cm, preferably no more than 4 cm, preferably no more than 3.5 cm, preferably no more than 3 cm, preferably no more than 2.5 cm, preferably no more than 2 cm. The method of any of aspects 49 to 73, wherein, in the deployed position, the support structure is configured to bear a total weight or as a vertical or oblique wall element or divider bear a horizontal load meeting the requirements of EASA CM No.: CM-S-009 Issue 01 issued October 17, 2018. The method of any of aspects 49 to 74, wherein one or more components of the system are at least partially made of flame-retardant materials and / or have at least partially been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents. The method of any of aspects 49 to 75, wherein the system is configured to pass the vertical-burn test. The method of any of aspects 49 to 76, wherein at least the slats, the cover layer, and the intermediate layer are at least partially made of flame-retardant materials and / or have at least partially been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents. The method of any of aspects 49 to 77, wherein the intermediate layer is configured to absorb one or more forces and / or stress, preferably including shear stress, in particular which act(s) between adjacent slats and / or between the cover layer and the slats and including tensile stress, which may be caused by the weight of the support structure and additional loads or forces. The method of any of aspects 49 to 78, wherein the intermediate layer is made of or includes one or more of the following: fabric, preferably a woven fabric, a foam material, a textile, a fabric or nonwoven material which includes a plurality of natural and / or synthetic fibers which are preferably arranged unidirectionally, linen, cotton, cellulose fibers, e.g., viscose fibers, acrylic fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyamide fibers polyester fibers, glass fibers, aramid fibers, or carbon fibers, a fabric made of continuous fibers, preferably with a tensile strength of at least 80 MPa, a material which includes a plurality of fibers, such as any of the aforementioned fibers, which are embedded in a matrix material, such as a 2-component epoxy resin, preferably a matrix material with an elongation at break in a range from 20% to 75%. The method of any of aspects 49 to 79, wherein the intermediate layer has an elongation of less than 5%, particularly preferably less than 2%, and preferably a tensile strength greater than 80 MPa. The method of any of aspects 49 to 80, wherein the intermediate layer has a thickness in a range from 0.05 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 0.6 mm to 2.0 mm. The method of any of aspects 49 to 81, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes one or more of the following: a veneer, preferably a real wood veneer, laminate, preferably a rollable laminate, a plastic foil, leather, an artificial leather made of synthetic and / or vegetable raw materials, a leather-like material such as alcantara, a textile, a fabric, a decorative paper, a cardboard, a metal or metal foil, e.g. made of aluminum, a stone, carbon, one or more colored coatings. The method of any of aspects 49 to 82, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of or including one or more of the following: maple wood, birch wood, beech wood, oak, alder wood, pine wood, cherry wood, mahogany wood, walnut wood, and teak wood. The method of any of aspects 49 to 83, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of real wood, wherein a fiber grain of the real wood extends in a direction along a length of the support structure and / or in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The method of any of aspects 49 to 84, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of real wood: which has been treated by removing at least some of the lignin of the real wood; and / or which has been treated by controllably introducing a plurality of cracks into the veneer, preferably wherein at least some of the cracks extend in a direction which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a length of the support structure and / or perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position; and / or which has been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents. The method of any of aspects 49 to 85, wherein the cover layer has a thickness in a range from 0.2 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm. The method of any of aspects 49 to 86, wherein the cover layer has been treated and / or at least partially covered with one or more of the following: a paint, a clear varnish, a wood oil such as linseed oil or soybean oil, a polyurethane varnish, a polyester varnish, an acrylic coating, a flame-retardant coating, an antibacterial and / or antiviral coating, a glossy coating, or a structured coating. The method of any of aspects 49 to 87, wherein the slats are made of a solid material or are at least partially hollow. The method of any of aspects 49 to 88, wherein the support structure is configured for use in an interior of an aircraft, a watercraft, preferably a yacht, and / or a vehicle.

[0116] Fig. 1 shows, in a schematic and cross-sectional view, a system which includes a support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0117] Fig. 2 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, the system of Fig. 1;

[0118] Fig. 3 shows, in a further schematic and perspective view, the system of Figs. 1 and 2;

[0119] Fig. 4 shows, in a further schematic and perspective view, the system of Figs. 1 to 3;

[0120] Fig. 5 shows, in a further schematic and perspective view, the system of Figs. 1 to 4;

[0121] Fig. 6 shows, in a schematic and cross-sectional side view, the system of Figs. 1 to 5;

[0122] Fig. 7 shows, in a further schematic and perspective view, the system of Figs. 1 to 6;

[0123] Fig. 8 shows, in a schematic and cross-sectional view, a system which includes a support structure according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0124] Fig. 9 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, the system of Fig. 8;

[0125] Fig. 10 shows, in a schematic and detailed perspective view, the system of Figs. 8 and 9;

[0126] Fig. 11 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, the system of Figs. 8 to 10;

[0127] Fig. 12 shows, in a schematic and cross-sectional view, the system of Figs. 8 to 11.

[0128] Figs. 1 to 7 show, in various views, a system 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure which includes a support structure 12. The support structure 12 may be configured to bear a load of one or more items or objects, e.g., a person or a container, e.g., a cup, exerted on the support structure 12. The support structure 12 may be a table element, as shown in the Figures in exemplary manner. Alternatively, the support structure 12 may be any other support structure capable of bearing a load of the one or more items or objects, e.g., a wall or divider element. The support structure 12 may be referred to as "table element" herein and in the following. However, it is understood that any of the configurations or features may apply to any other support structure 12, e.g., a horizontal, vertical or oblique wall or divider element. The system 10 may be configured for use in an interior of an aircraft, a watercraft, and / or a vehicle, a train, a mobile home, a space and / or a building. The table element 12 may be cantilevered in the deployed position.

[0129] The system 10 may include a plurality of individual slats 16, preferably arranged in series. The system 10 may include at least one cover layer 18 which preferably defines a top surface 20 of the table element 12 on which the one or more items are placeable. The cover layer 18 may be a continuous and / or uninterrupted layer. The system 10 may include at least one intermediate layer 24 arranged at least partially between the cover layer 18 and the slats 16. The intermediate layer 24 may be attached to the slats 16 and the cover layer 18. The cover layer 18 may be treated and / or at least partially covered with one or more of the following: a paint, a clear varnish, a wood oil such as linseed oil or soybean oil, a polyurethane varnish, a polyester varnish, an acrylic coating, a flame-retardant coating, an antibacterial and / or antiviral coating, a glossy coating, or a structured coating.

[0130] The slats 16 may be made of a solid material or are at least partially hollow.

[0131] The cover layer 18 may have a thickness in a range from 0.2 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0132] The table element 12 may be configured to be extendible, preferably in a direction 29, from a stowed position, in which the table element 12 is at least partially stowable, to a deployed position, in which the one or more items can be placed on and supported by the table element 12.

[0133] The slats 16, or at least some of the slats 16, may each be elongate, preferably in the direction which extends substantially perpendicularly to the direction 29 in which the table element 12 is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The slats 16 may be rigid elements.

[0134] Preferably, the system 10 is configured to at least partially bend and / or roll up and / or curl the table element 12 in the stowed position (see, e.g., Fig. 7). Preferably, at least a section of the table element 12, e.g., section 27 (see Fig. 7), has an inside radius of no more than 50 cm, preferably 40 cm, 30 cm, preferably no more than 25 cm, preferably no more than 20 cm, preferably not more than 15 cm.

[0135] In the deployed position, the table element 12 may have a width 31, which preferably extends perpendicularly to the direction 29 in which the table element 12 is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, preferably at least 60 cm, preferably at least 70 cm, preferably at least 80 cm, preferably at least 90 cm, preferably at least 100 cm, preferably at least 110 cm, preferably at least 120 cm preferably at least 130 cm, preferably at least 140 cm, preferably at least 150 cm, preferably at least 200 cm.

[0136] Preferably, in the deployed position, the table element 12 has a width, which preferably extends in a direction in which the table element 12 is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of no more than 20 cm, no more than 30 cm, no more than 40 cm, no more than 50 cm, no more than 60 cm, no more than 70 cm, no more than 80 cm no more than 90 cm, no more than 100 cm, no more than 110 cm, no more than 120 cm, no more than 130 cm, no more than 140 cm, no more than 150 cm, no more than 200 cm, no more than 210 cm.

[0137] At least in the deployed position, the table element 12 may have a thickness of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 2.5 cm, preferably at least 3 cm, preferably at least 3.5 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, preferably at least 4.5 cm, preferably at least 5 cm, preferably at least 6 cm, preferably at least 7 cm, preferably at least 8 cm, preferably at least 9 cm, preferably at least 10 cm.

[0138] At least in the deployed position, the table element 12 may have a thickness of no more than 5 cm, preferably no more than 4.5 cm, preferably no more than 4 cm, preferably no more than 3.5 cm, preferably no more than 3 cm, preferably no more than 2.5 cm, preferably no more than 2 cm.

[0139] In the deployed position, the table element 12 may be configured to bear a total weight or as a vertical wall or divider resist a horizontal force in compliance with the requirements of EASA CM No.: CM-S-009 Issue 01 issued October 17, 2018, especially in cases it forms horizontal tables and / or vertical, extendable wall or divider elements, designed for the use in aircrafts.

[0140] The intermediate layer 24 may be configured to absorb one or more forces and / or stress, preferably including shear stress, in particular which act(s) between adjacent slats 16 and / or between the cover layer 18 and the slats 16.

[0141] The intermediate layer 24 may have an elongation of less than 5%, particularly preferably less than 2%, and preferably a tensile strength greater than 80 MPa. The intermediate layer 24 may have a thickness in a range from 0.05 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm.

[0142] The cover layer 18 may be made of or may include a veneer made of real wood. A fiber grain of the real wood may extend along the length 50 of the table element 12 and / or in the direction 29 in which the table element 12 is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0143] The table element 12 may include at least one interconnecting mechanism 30 configured to at least partially interconnect the slats 16 in the deployed position to increase a rigidity of the table element 12. The interconnecting mechanism 30 may be configured to at least partially release the interconnection of the slats 16 provided by the interconnecting mechanism 30 in the stowed position.

[0144] The interconnecting mechanism 30 may include at least one reinforcing device 34 configured to interconnect the slats 16 in the deployed position, in particular to increase a rigidity of the table element 12. The interconnecting mechanism 30 may be configured to at least partially disconnect the reinforcing device 34 from the slats 16 in the stowed position of the table element 12.

[0145] Alternatively, the reinforcing device 34 may be or may include one or more second slats, e.g., which may be configured to be at least partially inserted between gaps in the above- mentioned slats 16, referred to as first slats. The first slats may be the slats of a first component of the table element and the second slats may be the slats of a second component of the table element 12 (see the first component 90 and the second component 92 of the table element 12 described further below in more detail).

[0146] The interconnecting mechanism 30 may be configured to store the reinforcing device 34 in a stored position, preferably by at least partially rolling up the reinforcing device 34, preferably in a spool or roll 38 as shown, e.g., in Figs. 5 and 6, when the table element 12 is in the stowed position. The interconnecting mechanism 30 may include one or more guide pulleys 39 configured to guide and / or redirect reinforcing device 34, in particular between the spool or roll 38 and the slats 16.

[0147] The interconnecting mechanism 30 may be configured to alter or change a cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device 34 between the stowed position and the deployed position of the table element. For instance, the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device 34 may be bent in a state, in which the reinforcing device 34 interconnects the slats 16, to a greater extent than a state in which the reinforcing device 34 is at least partially disconnected from the slats 16. The cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device 34 may be U-shaped in the state in which the reinforcing device 34 interconnects the slats 16. For instance, a bent, curved, or U-shaped cross-sectional shape 40 of the reinforcing device 34 is shown, e.g., in Figs. 1 and 5. A substantially flat cross-sectional shape 42 of the reinforcing device 34 in the state in which the reinforcing device 34 is at least partially disconnected from the slats 16 is shown, e.g., in Fig. 5. In particular, the interconnecting mechanism 30 may include an altering device 43 configured to alter the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device 34 as described above. The altering device 43 may include one or more channels 45 which have a cross-sectional shape which matches or is similar to the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device 34 when the reinforcing device 34 interconnects the slats 16.

[0148] The slats 16 may include at least one channel or recess 48 in which the reinforcing device 34 is at least partially receivable in the deployed position of the table element 16. The interconnecting mechanism 30 may include an insert 49 connected to one or more of the slats 16. The channel or recess 48 may be defined in the insert 49. The insert 49 may be made of a material and / or may be configured, e.g., processed and / or finished, to have a relatively different friction at least along the channel or recess 48.

[0149] The channel or recess 48 may have one or more engagement sections 51 configured to engage with the reinforcing device 34, when the reinforcing device 34 is received in the channel or recess 48. The one or more engagement sections 51 may be at least partially curved, in particular to facilitate altering the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device 34, in particular towards a curved shape, and / or to facilitate guiding the reinforcing device 34 and / or holding the reinforcing device 34 in place.

[0150] At least some of the slats 16 may include an alignment channel 56 configured to at least partially receive a guiding device 57, at least while the table element 12 is being extended from the stowed position to the deployed position. This may facilitate aligning and / or guiding the table element 12, in particular in a target orientation. For instance, this may ensure that a predetermined relative distance or a predetermined relative distance range between the slats 16 and the reinforcing device 34 is maintained to facilitate engagement of the reinforcing device 34 with the slats 16.

[0151] The reinforcing device 34 may extend along a length 50, preferably the entire length 50, of the table element 12, preferably along the direction 29 in which the table element 12 is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position. The reinforcing device 34 may be configured as a spring or spring-like element. Preferably, the reinforcing device 34 is biased in or towards a profiled and / or bent and / or curved and / or U- shaped cross-sectional shape, when the reinforcing device 34 extends straight or substantially straight, i.e., when the reinforcing device 34 is in a second state in which the reinforcing device 34 interconnects the slats 16 and / or is deployed, e.g., as shown in Figs. 1 to 5.

[0152] The interconnecting mechanism 30 may include a plurality of the at least one reinforcing device 34. The reinforcing devices 34 may be distributed and / or spaced apart in a direction 52 which is substantially perpendicular to the length 50 of the table element 12 and / or perpendicular to the direction 29 in which the table element 12 is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0153] The table element 12 may include an edge cover 60 or handle bar configured to extend along at least one edge 62, preferably the distal edge 62 of the table element 12. The table element 12 may include a housing 66 into which the table element 12 is at least partially received or receivable when the table element 12 is in the stowed position. The table element 12 may be extendible and retractable through an opening 68 in the housing 66. A cover element 69 may be configured to close the opening 68, when the table element 12 is completely stowed in the housing 66.

[0154] The housing 66 may house one or more further components of the system 10, in addition to the table element 12 (in the stowed position). For instance, the housing 66 may house one or more components of the interconnecting mechanism 30. For instance, the reinforcing device 34 and / or the spool or roll 38 and / or the one or more guide pulleys 39 and / or at least one drive unit (not shown), preferably electrically powered drive unit, for driving the table element 12 between the stowed position and the deployed position may be at least partially housed in the housing 66, in particular at least when the table element 12 is in the stowed position.

[0155] The table element 12 may include at least one bottom layer (not shown) arranged on a side of the slats 16 which is opposite from the cover layer 18 and the intermediate layer 24. The bottom layer may cover the slats 16 on a bottom side of the table element 12, e.g., to improve the aesthetic appeal of the table element 12.

[0156] Figs. 7 to 12 show, in various views, the system 10 according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment of Figs. 1 to 6 and the embodiment of Figs. 7 to 12 may be implemented separately. However, the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 6 and the embodiment of Figs. 7 to 12 may also be combined.

[0157] The embodiment of Figs. 7 to 12 differs from the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 6 in the or at least mainly in the configuration of the interconnecting mechanism 30. As opposed to the interconnecting mechanism 30 having the reinforcing device 34 as shown in Figs. 1 to 6, the table element 12 of the system 10 of Figs. 7 to 12 may include a first component 90 which may include a plurality of slats 16A and a second component 92 which may include a plurality of slats 16B. The interconnecting mechanism 30 of the system 10 of Figs. 7 to 12 may be configured to interconnect the slats 16A of the first component 90 and the slats 16B of the second component 92 such that the slats 16A of the first component 90 are at least partially received in respective gaps 96 between adjacent slats 16B of the second component 92 and / or such that the slats 16B of the second component 92 are at least partially received in respective gaps 97 between adjacent slats 16A of the first component 90, preferably such that the slats 16A of the first component 90 and the slats 16B of the second component 92 are alternatingly arranged in series, preferably along the direction 29 in which the table element 12 is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

[0158] The gaps 96 between adjacent slats 16B of the second component 92 and thegaps 97 between adjacent slats 16A of the first component 90 may be identical or substantially identical. Alternatively, the gaps 96 between adjacent slats 16B of the second component 92 and the gaps 97 between adjacent slats 16A of the first component 90 may be different or substantially different.

[0159] The interconnecting mechanism 30 may be configured to interconnect the slats 16A of the first component 90 and the slats 16B of the second component 92 in a zipper-like manner or zipper-type manner.

[0160] The system 10 may include one or more guide elements 100A, 100B configured to guide the first component 90 and / or the second component 92, preferably between the stowed position and the deployed position of the table element 12. Preferably, a first guide element 100A may be configured to guide the first component 90 and a second guide element 100B may be configured to guide the second component 92. The guide elements 100A, 100B may be configured as guide rails.

[0161] The system 10 may include at least one further guide element 106 configured to guide the first component 90 and / or the second component 92 into a bent and / or rolled configuration. The one or more guide elements 100A, 100B may be configured as guide rails which are formed, preferably monolithically and / or integrally, on the further guide element 106, optionally wherein the further guide element 106 is configured as a bent and / or curved plate on which the one or more guide elements 100A, 100B are formed.

[0162] The slats 16A of the first component 90 and / or the slats 16B of the second component 92 may include at least one alignment channel or recess 110 configure to at least partially receive at least one of the guide elements 100A, 100B. The alignment channel or recess 110 may be defined in an insert 111, preferably a plurality of inserts 111, attached to a structure of the slats 16A of the first component 90 and / or the slats 16B of the second component 92.

[0163] The interconnecting mechanism 30 may include at least one interconnecting device 103 configured to urge the slats 16A of the first component 90 into the gaps 96 between adjacent slats 16B of the second component 92 and / or urge the slats 16B of the second component 92 into the gaps 97 between adjacent slats 16A of the first component 90. For instance, the guide elements 100A, 100B may guide the first component 90 and the second component 92 towards each other such that the slats 16A of the first component 90 engage and interconnect with the slats 16B of the second component 92. For instance, the guide elements 100A, 100B may converge to an area 113 in which the slats 16A of the first component 90 engage and interconnect with the slats 16B of the second component 92. In other words, a gap between the guide elements 100A, 100B may become successively smaller towards the area 113 in which the slats 16A of the first component 90 engage and interconnect with the slats 16B of the second component 92.

[0164] The slats 16A of the first component 90 may include one or more first engagement elements 114 (see Fig. 10), e.g., one or more tongues or projections, configured to engage with one or more second engagement elements, e.g., one or more grooves or recesses, of the slats 16B of the second component 92, to interconnect the slats 16A of the first component 90 and the slats 16B of the second component 92.

[0165] The system 10 may include a roll-up device or spool 112 configured to at least partially roll up or curl the first component 90 and / or the second component 92, when the table element 12 is in or brought into the stowed position.

[0166] The first component 90 may include the cover layer 18 and the intermediate layer 24. The intermediate layer 24 may be attached to the slats 16A of the first component 90. The second component 92 may include at least one bottom layer (not shown) which is attached to the slats 16B of the second component 92.

[0167] The system 10 may include a gap or opening 115 through which the first component 90 and the second component 92 at least partially pass, when the table element 12 is moved from the stowed position to the deployed position and vice versa. The gap or opening 115 may be defined in the housing 66.

Claims

Claims1. A system including at least one support structure configured to support one or more items which are placed on and / or against the support structure, the support structure including: a plurality of individual slats arranged in series; at least one cover layer which defines a top surface of the support structure on and / or against which the one or more items are placeable; at least one intermediate layer arranged at least partially between the cover layer and the slats, wherein the intermediate layer is attached to the slats and the cover layer, wherein the support structure is configured to be extendible from a stowed position, in which the support structure is at least partially stowable, to a deployed position, in which the one or more items can be placed on and supported by the support structure; wherein the support structure includes at least one interconnecting mechanism configured to at least partially interconnect the slats in the deployed position to increase a rigidity of the support structure, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to at least partially release the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism in the stowed position.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the support structure is a table element.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the support structure is a wall element or a divider element.

4. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure is cantilevered in the deployed position.

5. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover layer is a continuous and / or uninterrupted layer.

6. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the slats are each elongate, preferably in a direction which extends substantially perpendicularly to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

7. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the slats are rigid and / or stiff elements.

8. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one reinforcing device configured to interconnect the slats in the deployed position to increase a rigidity of the support structure, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to retract the reinforcing device, when the support structure is or has been moved into the stowed position, in particular to release the interconnection of the slats.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to store the reinforcing device in a stored position, preferably by at least partially rolling up the reinforcing device, when the support structure is in the stowed position.

10. The system of claim 8 or 9, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to alter a cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device between the stored position of the reinforcing device and a state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats.

11. The system of any of claim 10, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device is bent in the state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats, to a greater extent than in the stored position.

12. The system of claim 10 or 11, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the reinforcing device is U-shaped in the state, in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats.

13. The system of any of claims 8 to 12, wherein the slats include at least one channel in which the reinforcing device is receivable in the deployed position of the support structure.

14. The system of any of claims 8 to 13, wherein the reinforcing device extends along a length, preferably the entire length, of the support structure, preferably along a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

15. The system of any of claims 8 to 14, wherein the reinforcing device is configured as a spring or spring-like element.

16. The system of any of claims 8 to 15, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes a plurality of the at least one reinforcing device, wherein the reinforcing devices are distributed and / or spaced apart in a direction which is substantially perpendicular to a length of the support structure and / or perpendicular to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

17. The system of any of claims 8 to 16, wherein the reinforcing device is biased towards a cross-sectional shape which is profiled and / or curved and / or U-shaped, at least when the reinforcing device is straight and / or when the reinforcing device is in a state in which the reinforcing device interconnects the slats.

18. The system of any of the preceding claims, further including at least one guiding device configured to guide the support structure, preferably the slats, when the support structure is moved between the stowed position and the deployed position.

19. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure includes a first component which includes a plurality of slats and a second component which includes a plurality of slats, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to interconnect the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component such that the slats of the first component are at least partially received in respective gaps between adjacent slats of the second component and / or such that the slats of the second component are at least partially received in respective gaps between adjacent slats of the first component, preferably such that the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component are a Iternatingly arranged in series.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one interconnecting device configured to urge the slats of the first component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the second component and / or urge the slats of the second component into respective gaps between adjacent slats of the first component.

21. The system of claim 19 or 20, wherein the first component includes the cover layer and the intermediate layer, wherein the intermediate layer is attached to the slats of the first component, wherein the second component includes at least one bottom layer which is either directly attached to the slats of the second component or indirectly attached to the slats or the second component via at least one further intermediatelayer.

22. The system of any of claims 19 to 21, wherein the interconnecting mechanism includes at least one guiding device configured to guide the first component and the second component, wherein slats of the first component and the slats of the second component each include an alignment channel configured to at least partially receive the guiding device, at least while the support structure is being extended from the stowed position to the deployed position.

23. The system of any of claims 19 to 22, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to interconnect the slats of the first component and the slats of the second component in a zipper-like manner or zipper-type manner.

24. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, in the deployed position, the support structure has a length, which preferably extends in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, preferably at least 60 cm, preferably at least 70 cm, preferably at least 80 cm, preferably at least 90 cm, preferably at least 100 cm, preferably at least 110 cm, preferably at least 120 cm, preferably at least 130 cm, preferably at least 140 cm, preferably at least 150 cm, preferably at least 200 cm.

25. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, in the deployed position, the support structure has a width, which preferably extends perpendicularly to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position, of at least 20 cm, preferably at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm, preferably at least 50 cm, preferably at least 60 cm, preferably at least 70 cm, preferably at least 80 cm, preferably at least 90 cm, preferably at least 100 cm, preferably at least 110 cm, preferably at least 120 cm preferably at least 130 cm, preferably at least 140 cm, preferably at least 150 cm, preferably at least 200 cm .

26. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, at least in the deployed position, the support structure has a thickness of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 2.5 cm, preferably at least 3 cm, preferably at least 3.5 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, preferably at least 4.5 cm, preferably at least 5 cm, preferably at least 6 cm, preferably at least 7 cm, preferably at least 8 cm, preferably at least 9 cm, preferably at least 10 cm.

27. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, at least in the deployed position, the support structure has a thickness of no more than 10 cm, 5 cm, preferably no more than 4.5 cm, preferably no more than 4 cm, preferably no more than 3.5 cm, preferably no more than 3 cm, preferably no more than 2.5 cm, preferably no more than 2 cm .

28. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein, in the deployed position, the support structure is configured to bear a total weight of the one or more items of at least 5 kg, preferably at least 7.5 kg, preferably at least 10 kg, preferably at least 12.5 kg, preferably at least 15 kg, preferably at least 17.5 kg, preferably at least 20 kg, at least 30 kg, at least 40 kg. Alternatively, or additionally, in the deployed position, the support structure may be configured to bear a total weight of the one or more items in compliance with EASA CM No.: CM-S-009 Issue 01 issued October 17, 2018.

29. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the system is at least partially made of flame-retardant materials and / or has at least partially been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents.

30. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the system is configured to pass the vertical-burn test.

31. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein at least the slats, the cover layer, and the intermediate layer are at least partially made of flame-retardant materials and / or have at least partially been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents.

32. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer is configured to absorb one or more forces and / or stress, preferably including shear stress, in particular which act(s) between adjacent slats and / or between the cover layer and the slats, and tensile stress and / or stress caused by the weight of the support structure.

33. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer is made of or includes one or more of the following: fabric, preferably a woven fabric, a foam material, a textile, a fabric or nonwoven material which includes a plurality of natural and / or synthetic fibers which are preferably arranged unidirectionally, linen, cotton, cellulose fibers, e.g., viscose fibers, acrylic fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyamide fibers polyester fibers, glass fibers, aramid fibers, or carbon fibers, a fabric made of continuous fibers, preferably with a tensile strength of at least 80 MPa, a materialwhich includes a plurality of fibers, such as any of the aforementioned fibers, which are embedded in a matrix material, such as a 2-component epoxy resin, preferably a matrix material with an elongation at break in a range from 20% to 75%.

34. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer has an elongation of less than 5%, particularly preferably less than 2%, and preferably a tensile strength greater than 40 MPa, 80 MPa, preferably greater than 100 MPa, preferably greater than 150 MPa, preferably greater than 200 MPa, preferably greater than 250 MPa, preferably greater than 300 MPa, preferably greater than 400 MPa, preferably greater than 500 MPa, preferably greater than 600 MPa, preferably greater than 700 MPa, preferably greater than 800 MPa, preferably greater than 900 MPa, preferably greater than 1000 MPa, preferably greater than 1100 MPa.

35. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate layer has a thickness in a range from 0.05 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 0.6 mm to 2.0 mm.

36. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes one or more of the following: a veneer, preferably a real wood veneer, laminate, preferably a rollable laminate, a plastic foil, leather, an artificial leather made of synthetic and / or vegetable raw materials, a leather-like material such as alcantara, a textile, a fabric, a decorative paper, a cardboard, a metal or metal foil, e.g. made of aluminum, a stone, carbon, one or more essentially transparent or colored coatings and / or a varnish, preferably an oil coating, preferably a UV-post-cured oil coating.

37. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of or including one or more of the following: maple wood, birch wood, beech wood, oak, alder wood, pine wood, cherry wood, mahogany wood, walnut wood, teak wood, eucalyptus wood, and reconstituted wood veneer.

38. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of real wood, wherein a fiber grain of the real wood extends in a direction along a length of the support structure and / or in a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position.

39. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover layer is made of or includes a veneer made of real wood:which has been treated by removing at least some of the lignin of the real wood; and / or which has been treated by controllably introducing a plurality of cracks into the veneer, preferably wherein at least some of the cracks extend in a direction which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a length of the support structure and / or perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a direction in which the support structure is extendible from the stowed position to the deployed position; and / or which has been treated with one or more flame-retardant agents.

40. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover layer has a thickness in a range from 0.2 mm to 5.0 mm, preferably 0.4 mm to 1.0 mm.

41. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover layer has been treated and / or at least partially covered with one or more of the following: a paint, preferably a paint and / or a varnish which is relatively flexible, preferably a material, preferably a paint and / or a varnish, which has an E-modulus (tensile modulus), preferably at a temperature of 20° C to 25° C, of 3 to 500 N / mm2, preferably 10 to 500 N / mm2, preferably 10 to 100 N / mm2, a clear varnish, a wood oil such as linseed oil or soybean oil, a polyurethane varnish, a polyester varnish, an acrylic coating, a flame-retardant coating, an antibacterial and / or antiviral coating, a glossy coating, or a structured coating.

42. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the slats are made of a solid material or are at least partially hollow.

43. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the slats have a cross-sectional shape which is rectangular, trapezoidal or of a complex shape, preferably wherein the slats include one or more recesses and / or one or more tongues and / or one or more projections and / or one or more curves.

44. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure is configured for use in an interior of an aircraft, a watercraft, preferably a yacht, a vehicle, a train, a mobile home, a space and / or a building.

45. The system of any of the preceding claims, further including at least one powered, preferably electrically powered, drive unit configured to drive the support structurebetween the stowed position and the deployed position.

46. The system of claim 45, further including at least one user interface, preferably including at least one button or touch sensor, configured to receive one or more commands from a user to operate the drive unit.

47. The system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the system is configured to at least partially roll up the support structure or at least one or more components of the support structure, when the support structure is in the stowed position, preferably wherein the system is configured to at least partially unroll the support structure when the support structure is brought into the deployed position.

48. A vehicle, preferably an aircraft or a watercraft, having an interior in which at least one system according to any of the preceding claims is arranged.

49. Method of manufacturing a system, preferably the system according to any of claims 1 to 47, which includes at least one support structure configured to support one or more items which are placed on the support structure, wherein the support structure is configured to be extendible from a stowed position, in which the support structure is at least partially stowable, to a deployed position, in which the one or more items can be placed on and supported by the support structure, wherein the method includes: arranging a plurality of individual slats series; attaching at least one intermediate layer to the slats, attaching at least one cover layer to the intermediate layer such that the intermediate layer is arranged at least partially between the cover layer and the slats, wherein the cover layer defines a top surface of the support structure on and / or against which the one or more items are placeable; providing at least one interconnecting mechanism configured to at least partially interconnect the slats in the deployed position to increase a rigidity of the support structure, wherein the interconnecting mechanism is configured to at least partially release the interconnection of the slats provided by the interconnecting mechanism in the stowed position.

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