TWI898991B - Stowable foldable table assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A stowable folding table assembly designed for installation adjacent to a seating area comprises a main body housing with an internal space. A tabletop is movable between a stowed position within this space and an extended position projecting outward from the housing. The tabletop is foldable for compact storage and is connected to the housing via a rotating mechanism that includes a pivot joint and a locking element. An inclined rail mechanism within the housing features at least one guide rail inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the housing's vertical axis, facilitating gravity-assisted movement of the tabletop during stowing. A guide assembly connected to the rotating mechanism interacts with the guide rail to guide the tabletop smoothly along the rail. The main body housing may include inner and outer shells with noise reduction and vibration damping materials in between. Additional features enhance stability and user comfort, such as a hinge mechanism, support structures, and non-slip tabletop surfaces.

Description

Retractable folding table set

The present invention relates generally to furniture assemblies, and more particularly to retractable and foldable table assemblies designed for installation in environments where space is limited or confined, such as lecture halls, train carriages, aircraft, and other public transportation or gathering areas.

Providing functional surfaces for activities like writing, using electronic devices, or holding meetings is essential in environments where space efficiency and flexibility are crucial. Traditional fixed desks often lead to inefficient use of space in settings like lecture halls or train carriages, as they occupy valuable floor space even when not in use. To address this issue, a variety of retractable and foldable desk systems have been developed to provide temporary workspaces that can be easily unfolded and stored as needed.

Traditional folding desk systems typically include a basic hinge mechanism that allows the tabletop to rotate between extended and stowed positions. While these solutions offer some space-saving functionality, they often have several limitations:

1. Operational complexity: Many existing folding tables require extensive manual manipulation to deploy and store, which can be cumbersome for users, especially in high-traffic environments or when rapid deployment and storage is required.

2. Inefficient storage mechanism: Existing designs may lack an effective guidance system, preventing the table from smoothly transitioning from one position to another. This can cause unexpected movements that can cause discomfort to the user or potentially damage the table and mounting structure.

3. Space optimization limitations: Some folding tables fail to optimize the storage space within the main shell, resulting in bulky or protruding units, hindering seamless integration into existing environments.

In environments such as lecture halls and train carriages where space is at a premium and user convenience is crucial, there is a continued need for improved retractable and foldable table assemblies. These improved assemblies should offer seamless deployment and folding operation, enhanced stability and durability, efficient space utilization, and user-friendly features that meet the dynamic demands of these environments.

The present invention addresses these limitations by introducing a retractable folding table assembly equipped with a uniquely designed tilting track mechanism. This tilting track mechanism facilitates a smooth, gravity-assisted folding operation, improving ease of use and reducing mechanical complexity. Furthermore, the assembly incorporates features designed to optimize space, ensure stability during use, and provide a durable solution suitable for high-demand environments.

The present invention relates to a retractable folding table system designed for installation adjacent to seating areas. It is particularly suitable for use in environments where space optimization is critical, such as lecture halls, train carriages, airplanes, buses, and various public or private venues. The retractable folding table system provides a stable and functional work surface when the tabletop is extended and can be efficiently stored when not in use, thereby conserving valuable floor or aisle space.

The retractable folding table assembly includes a main shell defining an interior space and configured adjacent to a seating area. A tabletop is disposed within the main shell and is movable between a stowed position within the interior space and an extended position extending outward from the main shell. The tabletop folds up to fit within the shell, creating a compact storage configuration.

A swivel mechanism connects the tabletop to the main housing, enabling it to move between stowed and deployed positions. The swivel mechanism includes a pivot joint and a locking element mounted on the pivot joint to secure the tabletop in the deployed position. A support plate is attachable to the pivot joint, providing a rigid support structure when the tabletop is deployed, enhancing stability during use.

A tilt rail mechanism is housed within the main housing. It comprises at least one guide rail tilted at a predetermined angle relative to the vertical axis of the main housing. This tilt angle is precisely selected to balance gravity, allowing the tabletop to move smoothly during storage, aided by gravity and preventing uncontrolled acceleration. A stop is located at the bottom of the tilt rail mechanism to secure the tabletop in its stowed position within the main housing and prevent it from descending beyond the predetermined position.

Connected to the swivel mechanism is a guide assembly that interacts with the guide rails of the tilt track mechanism to guide the tabletop along the rails. The guide assembly includes a guide block made of a low-friction material to prevent lateral movement and a roller connected to the guide block, which is adapted to roll along the surface of the guide rail. The guide rail can be coated with a low-friction material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or a self-lubricating plastic, to ensure smooth operation.

The main housing comprises an inner shell, which encloses an interior space and houses the mechanical components, including the tilt rail mechanism, and an outer shell that covers the inner shell. The space between the inner and outer shells may include a noise-reducing and vibration-damping material selected from foam pads and rubber layers. This feature reduces operating noise and absorbs vibrations generated by the movement of the internal mechanisms, making it particularly suitable for use in quiet environments to enhance user comfort.

The tabletop features a recessed area on its underside to facilitate gripping and manipulation during both deployment and folding. It also includes a hinge mechanism that allows the tabletop to fold back onto itself for more compact storage within the main housing. Additionally, the tabletop surface may include a non-slip coating to prevent items from sliding, and a raised edge border to enhance functionality and safety during use.

A support structure connects between the swivel mechanism and the guide assembly, providing additional stability during desktop movement and ensuring a smooth and controlled transition between the stowed and deployed positions.

The design of this foldable table set offers multiple advantages, including simplified operation through gravity-assisted storage, enhanced stability during use, efficient space utilization, and an improved user experience. By integrating these innovative features, the set provides a durable and easy-to-use solution for a variety of applications requiring space optimization and functionality.

To make the above features and advantages of the present invention more clearly understood, preferred embodiments are given below with reference to the accompanying drawings for detailed description.

100: Foldable table set

110: Main body shell

112: Front side

112a: Opening

114: Interior Space

115: Shell

116: Inner shell

120:Desktop

121: Raised edge

122: Concave area

124: Hinge mechanism

130: Rotating mechanism

132: Pivot joint

134: Locking element

136: Support plate

140: Inclined track mechanism

142:Guide Rail

144: Stop file

150:Guide component

152: Guide block

154: Scroll Wheel

160: Support structure

Figure 1A shows one embodiment of the retractable folding table set of the present invention.

Figure 1B shows the retractable folding table assembly of the present invention with the outer shell hidden.

Figures 2A and 2B show different perspectives of the tabletop of the retractable folding table set of the present invention.

Figures 3A and 3B show the rotating mechanism of the retractable folding table set of the present invention in different states.

Figures 4A and 4B show the tilting track mechanism of the retractable folding table set of the present invention in different states.

Figure 5 shows the operating process of one embodiment of the retractable folding table set of the present invention.

The present invention relates to a retractable folding table system designed for installation adjacent to seating areas in environments where space optimization is critical, such as lecture halls, train carriages, airplanes, buses, and various other public or private venues. The retractable folding table system provides a stable and functional workspace when deployed and stows efficiently when not in use, saving valuable floor or aisle space.

Referring to FIG. 1A , FIG. 1A illustrates one embodiment of a foldable table system according to the present invention, showing the exterior appearance of the foldable table system when the tabletop is retracted. The foldable table system 100 includes a main housing 110 securely mounted to a structural element (not shown) adjacent to the seating area, such as a wall, partition, seat frame, or other fixed structure. The main housing 110 is generally rectangular in shape, and its dimensions can be customized to suit the tabletop and internal structure. In this embodiment, the main housing 110 has a streamlined appearance. Its front side 112 is slightly curved and has an opening 112a. The slightly curved design enhances the aesthetics, and the opening 112a leads to the interior space 114 of the main housing 110.

Please also refer to Figure 1B, which shows a view of the retractable folding table set of the present invention with the outer shell hidden. In this embodiment, the main shell 110 includes an outer shell 115 and an inner shell 116, each having different but complementary functions. The space surrounded by the inner shell 116 serves as the installation area for various mechanical components inside the retractable folding table set 100, including the tilting track mechanism 140 (as shown in Figure 4A). The inner shell 116 is made of a solid material and provides a protected environment for the various mechanical components. Enclosing the inner shell 116 is the outer shell 115, which acts as a protective shell, absorbing and dispersing external forces and enhancing the structural integrity of the combination. Outer shell 115 also enhances the aesthetics of the desk set. It can be made of materials such as molded plastic, composite, or metal with various surface finishes, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the interior design of the installation environment. The space between outer shell 115 and inner shell 116 provides noise and vibration reduction. By combining outer shell 115 and inner shell 116, the design of main shell 110 provides a balance of protection, functionality, and aesthetic customization. It enhances the durability of the set and ensures safe use by preventing users from coming into contact with moving parts.

In other embodiments, a foam pad or rubber layer can be installed in the gap between the inner and outer shells (not installed in the embodiment shown in FIG1B ) to minimize operating noise and absorb vibrations generated by the movement of the internal mechanism. This feature improves user comfort, especially in quiet environments such as lecture halls or libraries.

Please refer to Figures 2A and 2B, which show different views of the tabletop of the retractable folding desk set of the present invention. The retractable folding desk set 100 further includes a tabletop 120 that can be folded and stored within the interior space 114 of the main housing 110 when not in use. In this embodiment, the tabletop 120 is rectangular and sized for writing, reading, using a laptop or tablet computer, and dining. The tabletop 120 can be made of a material that strikes a balance between strength and weight, such as laminated wood, composite wood, or sheet metal. To prevent items from slipping, especially in environments prone to movement or vibration, such as trains or buses, the tabletop 120 can be covered with a non-slip material, such as a rubber coating or textured laminate. Alternatively, a raised edge 121 or a frame (not shown) can be provided around the tabletop to achieve the same effect. Referring to Figure 2B , The tabletop 120 has a recessed area 122 below to facilitate gripping and manipulation when unfolded or folded. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the tabletop 120 is equipped with a hinge mechanism 124 to allow the tabletop 120 to fold when folded.

Please refer to Figures 3A and 3B, which illustrate the swivel mechanism of the retractable folding table set of the present invention in different states. The tabletop 120 is connected to the main housing 110 via a swivel mechanism 130, which enables the tabletop 120 to smoothly rotate between the deployed and stowed positions. In this embodiment, the swivel mechanism 130 includes a pivot joint 132, which is made of a durable material such as stainless steel or reinforced polymer to withstand repeated use without degradation. To ensure the stability of the tabletop during use, as shown in the enlarged views of Figures 3A and 3B , the swivel mechanism 130 is equipped with a locking element 134. This locks the tabletop 120 in place when fully extended, ensuring safety and stability for the user. Furthermore, to enhance the stability of the tabletop 120 when extended, the swivel mechanism 130 includes a support plate 136. One end of the tabletop 120 is pivoted to the support plate 136, forming a rigid support structure that withstands loads during use and prevents bending or shaking. Furthermore, since one end of the tabletop 120 is hinged to the support plate 136, when the tabletop 120 is folded up, it can be rotated relative to the support plate 136 to facilitate folding.

Please refer to Figures 4A and 4B. Figure 4A shows the tilting track mechanism of the retractable folding table set of the present invention, and Figure 4B shows the guide assembly of the retractable folding table set of the present invention. A significant feature of the retractable folding table set 100 of this embodiment is the tilting track mechanism 140 integrated into the main body shell 110. The tilting track mechanism 140 includes at least one guide rail 142 tilted at a specific angle relative to the vertical axis of the main body shell 110. The tilting angle is determined according to actual circumstances to balance the gravity required to guide the table top 120 into the retracted position without causing rapid or uncontrolled movement. The guide rail 142 is made of a low-friction material or treated with a friction-reducing coating, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-coated metal or self-lubricating plastic, to ensure smooth operation.

Interacting with the tilt rail mechanism 140 is a guide assembly 150 connected to the rotation mechanism 130. In this embodiment, the guide assembly 150 may include a guide block 152 and a roller 154, designed to closely mate with the guide rail 142 and control the movement of the tabletop 120 along the tilt path. The guide block 152 is made of a material with inherently low friction, such as nylon or polyethylene. In this embodiment, the guide block 152 is covered and locked by the guide rail 142 to prevent lateral movement. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the roller 154 further reduces friction by rolling along the bottom of the guide rail 142. This guide assembly 150 ensures that when the user begins the storage process by folding and stowing the tabletop 120 toward the main housing 110, the weight of the tabletop 120 and the swivel mechanism 130 slides smoothly downward along the tilt track mechanism 140 under the influence of gravity. This movement is controlled and smooth, without the user having to constantly apply force or manage a complex locking mechanism. Stops 144 (in this embodiment, screws) are provided at the lower end of the tilt track mechanism 140 to secure the tabletop 120 in its stored position within the main housing 110. These stops 144 prevent the tabletop 120 from descending beyond a predetermined position. Furthermore, the foldable table assembly 100 of this embodiment further includes a support structure 160. In this embodiment, the support structure 160 is a plate with multiple bends. One portion of the support structure 160 is connected to the rotation mechanism 130, while another portion of the support structure 160 is locked with the guide block 152 of the guide assembly 150.

The retractable folding table assembly 100 is simple and easy to use. Please refer to FIG5 , which illustrates the operation process of one embodiment of the retractable folding table assembly of the present invention. First, as shown in step S110 , to unfold the tabletop 120 , the user grasps the recessed area 122 integrated below the tabletop 120 . Next, as shown in step S120 , the tabletop 120 is rotated outward away from the main housing 110 via the rotation mechanism 130 . Next, as shown in step S130 , the tabletop 120 is rotated horizontally via the hinge mechanism 124 to reach the fully unfolded position. Thereafter, as shown in step S140, the locking element 134 of the rotating mechanism 130 is activated to secure the tabletop 120 and prevent further rotation, thereby ensuring the safety and stability of the user when using the tabletop 120. To store the tabletop 120, as shown in step S150, the user begins to fold the tabletop 120 via the hinge mechanism 124. Next, as shown in step S160, the tabletop 120 is rotated vertically back to the main housing 110 via the rotating mechanism 130. Thereafter, as shown in step S170, the gravity-assisted movement of the tabletop 120 is performed along the guide rail 142 of the tilt rail mechanism 140, ensuring a smooth and controlled descent. Next, as shown in step S180, the tabletop 120 continues to slide into the interior space 114 of the main housing 110 until it contacts the stopper 144. At this point, the tabletop 120 is fully retracted and secured within the interior space 114 of the main housing 110.

The retractable folding table set of this invention is primarily intended for use in lecture halls or conference rooms, where it can be integrated into walls or partitions to accommodate various teaching methods and meeting needs. Furthermore, it can be installed next to seats in vehicles such as train carriages or airplanes, providing passengers with a functional tabletop while maintaining aisle accessibility. Furthermore, medical facilities can utilize this set in wards or treatment areas to address space constraints.

The present invention's foldable desk system offers several advantages over existing technologies. Its gravity-assisted folding tabletop and associated mechanisms simplify operation and reduce manual effort, enhancing user convenience. Overall, the present invention's foldable desk system provides a comprehensive solution for environments requiring a flexible and space-efficient workspace. Through the innovative integration of a tilting track mechanism and a range of technical features, the foldable desk system enhances the user experience, optimizes space utilization, and provides durable performance suitable for a wide range of applications.

Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, these are not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art may make modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention shall be determined by the scope of the attached patent application.

120:Desktop

130: Rotating mechanism

140: Inclined track mechanism

142:Guide Rail

144: Stop file

150:Guide component

Claims (10)

A retractable folding table set comprises: A main housing disposed adjacent to a seating area, the main housing defining an interior space; A tabletop movable between a stowed position within the interior space of the main housing and an extended position extending outward from the main housing, wherein the tabletop is foldable for storage within the main housing; A swivel mechanism connecting the tabletop to the main housing; A tilt rail mechanism disposed within the main housing, wherein the tilt rail mechanism includes at least one guide rail tilted at a predetermined angle relative to a vertical axis of the main housing; and A guide assembly is connected to the rotation mechanism and interacts with the guide rail, the guide assembly guiding the tabletop along the guide rail of the tilting track mechanism; The tilting track mechanism facilitates gravity-assisted movement of the tabletop along the guide rail during storage. The foldable table set of claim 1, wherein the main housing comprises: an inner housing enclosing the interior space and housing mechanical components including the tilt rail mechanism; and an outer housing covering the inner housing. A foldable foldable table set as described in claim 2, wherein the space between the inner shell and the outer shell includes a noise reduction and vibration absorption material selected from a foam pad and a rubber layer. A retractable folding table set as described in claim 1, wherein the table top includes a recessed area arranged on its lower side to facilitate a user to grasp and operate during the unfolding and folding process. The foldable table set as described in claim 1, wherein the table top further includes a hinge mechanism allowing the table top to fold itself. The foldable foldable table set of claim 1, wherein the swivel mechanism comprises: a pivot joint; a locking element disposed on the pivot joint. A retractable folding table set as described in claim 6, wherein the rotating mechanism further includes a support plate, which is connected to the pivot joint and provides a rigid support structure when the table top is in the unfolded position. The foldable table set of claim 1, wherein the guide assembly comprises: a guide block made of a low-friction material, the guide block interacting with the guide rail to prevent lateral movement; a roller connected to the guide block, the roller adapted to roll along the surface of the guide rail. The retractable folding table set as described in claim 1 further includes a support structure connected between the rotating mechanism and the guide assembly. A retractable folding table set as described in claim 1, wherein the lower end of the tilt rail mechanism includes a stopper for fixing the table top at the storage position in the main housing to prevent it from descending beyond a predetermined position.