US20090114127A1 - Folding table and chair - Google Patents
Folding table and chair Download PDFInfo
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- US20090114127A1 US20090114127A1 US12/348,691 US34869109A US2009114127A1 US 20090114127 A1 US20090114127 A1 US 20090114127A1 US 34869109 A US34869109 A US 34869109A US 2009114127 A1 US2009114127 A1 US 2009114127A1
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- Prior art keywords
- folding
- chair
- shows
- legs
- leg
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B3/00—Folding or stowable tables
- A47B3/08—Folding or stowable tables with legs pivoted to top or underframe
- A47B3/083—Folding or stowable tables with legs pivoted to top or underframe with foldable top leaves
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/56—Parts or details of tipping-up chairs, e.g. of theatre chairs
Definitions
- the invention is directed to a folding table and chair.
- the table can be easily folded to make it more compact and transported for storage or relocation; and the chair can be folded flat to facilitate storage.
- folding tables that include a handle, or other carrying means, for transportation flat include a separate structure that is visible when the table is unfolded.
- the suitcase table includes a handle mounted to an outer edge of a table leaf.
- a hinge, or other folding mechanism is disposed at the center of the table and connects the opposing leaves.
- the suitcase table's legs have a sliding leg-lock arrangement that is widely used in folding tables.
- the legs can be folded within the thickness of the skirt surrounding the edge of each leaf.
- the table can be folded in half such that the skirt of each leaf contacts one another to form an outer planar surface that forms the “suitcase” with the legs folded inside.
- the skirt may include a latching mechanism so that the leaves can be secured together.
- the secured, folded table can be transported by means of the separate handle that is not located on the same side of the outer planar surface of the suitcase as the hinge.
- the invention meets the foregoing need and by providing a folding mechanism and carrying mechanism, respectively, that is not readily visible when unfolded, which results in a table and chair having appearances more similar to non-folding tables and chairs that are decorative and suitable for everyday use, as well as other advantages apparent from the discussion herein.
- the invention describes a table with a table top and one or more legs connected to the table top with a pivot joint.
- the table includes a locking mechanism located within a recess in the table top and able to lock the pivoting legs in a position substantially perpendicular to the table top.
- the table also includes a release mechanism located in the recess that has an upper surface substantially planar with the upper surface of the table top. The release mechanism engages the locking mechanism and releases the pivoting leg so that it can be folded to a position substantially parallel to the table top.
- the locking mechanism may consist of a lever located at the end of a clasp.
- the release mechanism may consist of a push button.
- the table may have three legs.
- the table may have four legs.
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position
- FIG. 1A shows a side elevational view of a folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position
- FIG. 1B shows an enlarged perspective view of a push button release used in a folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention
- FIG. 1C shows a perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 in a folded position
- FIG. 2 shows a side perspective view of the table of FIG. 1 in a folded position
- FIG. 2A shows an enlarged view of the folding mechanism of the table of FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a locking mechanism constructed according to the principles of the invention
- FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position
- FIG. 4A shows an enlarged view of a locking mechanism for the chair of FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 4B shows a side elevational view of the chair of FIG. 4 in a folded position
- FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position
- FIG. 6 shows a dining set incorporating the table of FIG. 5 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated in FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 7 shows yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a slat-style design
- FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a transitional style
- FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of another exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position
- FIGS. 9A , 9 B, 9 C show the chair of FIG. 9 in various stages of folding
- FIG. 10 shows a dining set incorporating the table of FIG. 8 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated in FIG. 9 ;
- FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a traditional style
- FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position
- FIG. 12A shows an enlarged perspective view of a push button release implemented in the chair of FIG. 12 that is similar to the push button release illustrated by FIG. 1B ;
- FIG. 13 shows a dining set incorporating the table of FIG. 11 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated in FIG. 12 ;
- FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a mission style
- FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position
- FIG. 16 shows a dining set incorporating the table of FIG. 14 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated in FIG. 15 ;
- FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of an exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position
- FIG. 18 shows top view of the table of FIG. 17 ;
- FIG. 19 shows a front elevation view of the table of FIG. 17 ;
- FIG. 20 shows a bottom view of the table of FIG. 17 in a folded position.
- FIG. 1 shows a folding table 100 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention.
- the table may include two leaves 122 , 123 that make up a table top 120 .
- Each table leg 110 may be pivotably connected to one of the leaves 122 , 123 that can be unlocked to fold via a push button release 105 .
- FIG. 1A is a side view of the unfolded table 100 that shows two leaves 122 , 123 joined together by a hinge 124 .
- FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of the push button release 105 .
- the button 105 may be disposed in a recess 125 of the table top 120 .
- the button 105 is pushed down to unlock the leg 110 so that it may fold, but the button may be any suitable mechanism for disengaging a lock or latch that holds the leg 110 in place when the table 100 is unfolded for use.
- FIG. 1C illustrates table 100 in a folded position.
- the leaves 122 , 123 are spaced apart, primarily by the thickness of the legs 110 . This space may expose the hinge 124 so that it can be used as a handle for carrying the table 100 in the folded position for transportation or storage.
- FIG. 2 is a side view of table 100 that illustrates that it may rest flat on the ground or other surface in a folded position, supported by an edge of the leaves 122 , 123 opposite the hinge 124 .
- FIG. 2A is a close-up view of the hinge 124 .
- the hinge 124 may include a handle 201 that is held in place by collars 203 , which are coupled to the leaves 122 , 123 by flanges 205 .
- the handle can be fixedly coupled to the collars of one leaf while being pivotably connected to the collars of the other leaf.
- the handle can be pivotably connected to all of the collars and held in place by end caps 207 disposed on the outer collars to prevent longitudinal movement of the handle.
- most of the handle 201 is disposed above the edges of the leaves 122 , 123 in the folded position to facilitate carrying of the table 100 .
- FIG. 3 shows a latching mechanism 300 that may engage push button 105 to releasably lock leg 110 in relation to table top 120 .
- the latching mechanism 300 may be coupled to table top 120 using support plate 303 .
- the leg may be coupled to the latching mechanism 300 using hinge plate 305 that is rotatably connected the support plate 303 at pin 315 .
- a latch 301 which may be biased towards the push button release 105 by a mechanism such as a spring (not shown), can be provided to fix the hinge plate 305 in relation to both the support plate 303 and table top 120 .
- the latch 301 may include a lever 309 that is adapted to engage push button release 105 within recess 125 of FIG. 1B .
- the latch may also include a clasp 311 that holds an upper planar surface of the hinge plate 305 to a lower planar surface of the support plate to “lock” the leg 110 in an unfolded position that is generally perpendicular to the table top 120 .
- the lever 309 presses the lever 309 downwardly releases the hinge plate 305 so that it may be rotated about pin 315 to allow the leg 110 to rotate into a folded position that is generally parallel to the table top 120 .
- it can be rotated so that an edge of hinge plate 303 will push the clasp 311 against biasing force provided by the latch 301 so that leg 110 can fully rotate.
- the clasp 311 will spring back due to the biasing force of latch 301 to lock the leg 110 in place.
- the clasp 311 may have a tapered surface 313 adapted to engage a leading edge of hinge plate 305 to facilitate unfolding of the leg 110 . This kind of arrangement is advantageous for the easy concealment of the mechanism used to lock/unlock the legs of a folding table.
- FIG. 4 shows a folding chair 400 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention.
- the chair 400 includes a back 403 and a seat 405 having a cushion 406 .
- the back may be supported by rear legs 407 that extend from the surface the chair 400 is resting on to the top of back 403 .
- the seat 405 can be pivotably coupled to rear legs 407 .
- the front of seat 405 may be supported by front legs 409 that are substantially shorter in length than rear legs 407 .
- Extra lateral support may be provided by support 415 that is connected to front legs 409 on a front end and pivotably connected to a cross-support 416 at a back end.
- the support 415 primarily provides lateral support in a front-to-back direction
- the cross-support 416 primarily provides lateral support in a side-to-side direction.
- seat 405 , legs 407 , 409 , support 415 , and cross-support 416 include a frame 411 preferably made of lightweight cast aluminum. But other materials that are known to be suitable for constructing folding chairs can be used in accordance with the principles of the invention.
- Each of the front legs 409 may include a slot and keyhole arrangement for locking the chair 400 in an unfolded position.
- FIG. 4A shows the front leg 409 having a slot 422 and a keyhole 423 within the leg that both engage a tab 417 of support 415 .
- the support 415 is locked relative to the cross-support 416 and the front leg 409 , thereby preventing the seat 405 from pivoting and “locks” the chair 400 in the unfolded position.
- FIG. 4B illustrates chair 400 in a folded position.
- FIG. 5 shows a modern style dining table 500 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention.
- Each leaf 522 , 523 may comprises two wooden slabs 526 , 528 , 530 , 532 that conceal the seam where the table 500 is folded.
- the table 500 also may include the previously described push button release 105 for locking/unlocking legs 510 .
- the push button release 105 is shown as an aluminum button to accent the wooden slabs 526 , 528 , 530 , 532 .
- FIG. 6 shows a dining set including table 500 with chairs 400 .
- FIG. 7 shows a slat style dining table 600 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention.
- the table leaves 622 , 623 can be made up of slats 630 .
- the push button release 105 can be made of a wood or other material, contrasting to the slats 630 for adding a stylish appeal.
- FIG. 8 shows a transitional table 650 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention.
- the table 650 may include tapered legs 660 and a beaded skirt 665 for an elegant look.
- the push button release can be covered by a veneer 656 to match the table top 670 made up of leaves 672 , 673 .
- FIG. 9 illustrates a transitional folding chair 700 using an alternative folding mechanism.
- the chair 700 includes a back 703 , a seat 705 having a cushion 706 , rear legs 707 , front legs 709 , support 715 , and cross-support 716 .
- the chair 700 also includes a front cross-support 717 that provides side to side lateral support in a similar manner to the cross-support 716 .
- the support 715 may be joined to the front cross-support 717 at the front end, and pivotably connected to the cross-support 716 at the rear end.
- the front cross-support 717 is pivotably connected to the front legs 709 .
- FIGS. 9A , 9 B, and 9 C illustrate the various steps of folding the chair 700 .
- FIGS. 9 and 9A show the chair 700 in an unfolded position suitable for use.
- FIG. 9B shows that the seat 705 may be rotated off of pegs 720 , which permits the support 715 and front legs 709 to pivot upwardly to fold the chair 700 .
- the chair in a folded position is illustrated by FIG. 9C .
- FIG. 10 shows the dining set including table 650 with chairs 700 .
- FIG. 11 shows a traditional style table 750 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention.
- the table 750 may include engraved details 776 in the leaves 772 , 773 .
- the legs 760 can have the appearance of classic lathe turned legs that end in boxed shoulders 775 integrated into the skirt 765 .
- the push button release which may covered by a veneer 756 to match the table, operates to lock/unlock the legs 760 .
- FIG. 12 illustrates a traditional folding chair 800 using yet another folding mechanism.
- the front legs 809 may be folded by pressing a push button release 815 disposed within a recess 825 of the seat 805 that functions similar to the previously described release for a folding table. Pressing the push button release 805 unlatches the front legs 809 so that the seat 805 may be rotated and the chair 800 will lay substantially flat for storage.
- FIG. 13 shows a dining set including table 750 with chairs 800 .
- FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a mission style.
- FIG. 14 shows a mission style table 850 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention.
- the leaves 872 , 873 may include ceramic or stone tiles 876 for creating the mission look.
- the legs 860 may be straight and sturdy to provide a hand made look consistent with the mission style.
- the push button release 105 may be made to match either the tiles or wood of table.
- FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position.
- FIG. 15 shows a mission chair 900 that may preferably include the alternative folding mechanism shown in FIG. 9 , but other folding mechanisms that are consistent with the principles of the invention may also be used.
- FIG. 16 shows a dining set incorporating the table of FIG. 14 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated in FIG. 15 .
- FIG. 16 shows a dining set including table 850 with chairs 900 .
- a table 100 may be provided that has a solid, one-piece table top 120 as shown in FIG. 17 .
- Such a table 100 may not have leaves 122 , 123 or a hinge 124 . It may, however, have one or more folding legs 100 and a push release button 105 .
- the button 105 may be pushed down to unlock the leg 100 so that it may fold, or the button 105 may be any other suitable mechanism for disengaging a lock or latch that holds leg 110 in position when the table 100 is unfolded.
- the button 105 may function as described above with respect to FIG. 1B , although other configuration and mechanisms, as understood by one skilled in the relevant arts, are contemplated and with the scope of the invention.
- FIG. 18 displays the top of the table 100
- FIG. 19 shows the side of the table.
- FIG. 20 illustrates the underside of the table 100 when the legs 100 are folded.
- the legs 110 are folded at an angle relative to the sides of the table 100 , although any configuration of the legs in a folded position is contemplated and within the scope of the invention.
- the invention provides unobtrusive folding mechanisms for both a table and chair that provides a folding table and chair, both of which may be constructed in a number of styles, that are sufficiently decorative for regular, everyday home use.
Abstract
A folding table and chair each have an unobtrusive folding mechanism that cannot be easily seen when unfolded for use. Because the folding mechanism is not readily seen, folding tables and chairs of a number of well-known and popular styles can be provided that are suitable for use as everyday home furniture. Folding furniture may be particularly desirable for apartment and condominium dwellers who have limited living space and need to occasionally store bulky furniture to fully use such space. The folding furniture of the invention is also easier to move than traditional furniture, including the hinge of the table, which can also serve as a carrying handle.
Description
- This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/878,310, filed on Jul. 23, 2007, the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety; which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 60/832,136, filed on Jul. 21, 2006, the disclosure of which is also expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The invention is directed to a folding table and chair. In particular, the table can be easily folded to make it more compact and transported for storage or relocation; and the chair can be folded flat to facilitate storage.
- 2. Related Art
- Many folding tables that include a handle, or other carrying means, for transportation flat include a separate structure that is visible when the table is unfolded.
- An example of such a table is a typical “suitcase” style folding table. The suitcase table includes a handle mounted to an outer edge of a table leaf. A hinge, or other folding mechanism, is disposed at the center of the table and connects the opposing leaves. The suitcase table's legs have a sliding leg-lock arrangement that is widely used in folding tables. The legs can be folded within the thickness of the skirt surrounding the edge of each leaf. The table can be folded in half such that the skirt of each leaf contacts one another to form an outer planar surface that forms the “suitcase” with the legs folded inside. The skirt may include a latching mechanism so that the leaves can be secured together. The secured, folded table can be transported by means of the separate handle that is not located on the same side of the outer planar surface of the suitcase as the hinge.
- Many of the mechanisms that permit the suitcase table to fold and be transported are visible when the table is in use. Accordingly, these visible mechanisms are unsightly and make the typical folding table undesirable for everyday home use.
- In smaller domiciles, furniture that is easily moved and storable is desired so that occupants can take full advantage of limited living space, which especially important in urban environments.
- Accordingly, there is a need for a foldable table and chair that hides the folding and carrying mechanisms so that the table is sufficiently stylish and decorative for everyday use.
- The invention meets the foregoing need and by providing a folding mechanism and carrying mechanism, respectively, that is not readily visible when unfolded, which results in a table and chair having appearances more similar to non-folding tables and chairs that are decorative and suitable for everyday use, as well as other advantages apparent from the discussion herein.
- The invention describes a table with a table top and one or more legs connected to the table top with a pivot joint. The table includes a locking mechanism located within a recess in the table top and able to lock the pivoting legs in a position substantially perpendicular to the table top. The table also includes a release mechanism located in the recess that has an upper surface substantially planar with the upper surface of the table top. The release mechanism engages the locking mechanism and releases the pivoting leg so that it can be folded to a position substantially parallel to the table top.
- The locking mechanism may consist of a lever located at the end of a clasp. The release mechanism may consist of a push button. The table may have three legs. The table may have four legs.
- Additional features, advantages, and embodiments of the invention may be set forth or apparent from consideration of the following detailed description, drawings, and claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing summary of the invention and the following detailed description are exemplary and intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the invention as claimed.
- The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the detailed description serve to explain the principles of the invention. No attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than may be necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention and the various ways in which it may be practiced. In the drawings:
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FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position; -
FIG. 1A shows a side elevational view of a folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position; -
FIG. 1B shows an enlarged perspective view of a push button release used in a folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention; -
FIG. 1C shows a perspective view of the table ofFIG. 1 in a folded position; -
FIG. 2 shows a side perspective view of the table ofFIG. 1 in a folded position; -
FIG. 2A shows an enlarged view of the folding mechanism of the table ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a locking mechanism constructed according to the principles of the invention; -
FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position; -
FIG. 4A shows an enlarged view of a locking mechanism for the chair ofFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 4B shows a side elevational view of the chair ofFIG. 4 in a folded position; -
FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position; -
FIG. 6 shows a dining set incorporating the table ofFIG. 5 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated inFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 7 shows yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a slat-style design; -
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a transitional style; -
FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of another exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position; -
FIGS. 9A , 9B, 9C show the chair ofFIG. 9 in various stages of folding; -
FIG. 10 shows a dining set incorporating the table ofFIG. 8 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated inFIG. 9 ; -
FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a traditional style; -
FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position; -
FIG. 12A shows an enlarged perspective view of a push button release implemented in the chair ofFIG. 12 that is similar to the push button release illustrated byFIG. 1B ; -
FIG. 13 shows a dining set incorporating the table ofFIG. 11 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated inFIG. 12 ; -
FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a mission style; -
FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position; -
FIG. 16 shows a dining set incorporating the table ofFIG. 14 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated inFIG. 15 ; -
FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of an exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position; -
FIG. 18 shows top view of the table ofFIG. 17 ; -
FIG. 19 shows a front elevation view of the table ofFIG. 17 ; and -
FIG. 20 shows a bottom view of the table ofFIG. 17 in a folded position. - The embodiments of the invention and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments and examples that are described and/or illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. It should be noted that the features illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and features of one embodiment may be employed with other embodiments as the skilled artisan would recognize, even if not explicitly stated herein. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques may be omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments of the invention. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the invention may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, the examples and embodiments herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined solely by the appended claims and applicable law. Moreover, it is noted that like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
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FIG. 1 shows a folding table 100 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention. The table may include twoleaves table top 120. Eachtable leg 110 may be pivotably connected to one of theleaves push button release 105.FIG. 1A is a side view of the unfolded table 100 that shows twoleaves hinge 124. -
FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of thepush button release 105. Thebutton 105 may be disposed in arecess 125 of thetable top 120. Here, thebutton 105 is pushed down to unlock theleg 110 so that it may fold, but the button may be any suitable mechanism for disengaging a lock or latch that holds theleg 110 in place when the table 100 is unfolded for use. -
FIG. 1C illustrates table 100 in a folded position. In a folded position, theleaves legs 110. This space may expose thehinge 124 so that it can be used as a handle for carrying the table 100 in the folded position for transportation or storage. -
FIG. 2 is a side view of table 100 that illustrates that it may rest flat on the ground or other surface in a folded position, supported by an edge of theleaves hinge 124.FIG. 2A is a close-up view of thehinge 124. Thehinge 124 may include ahandle 201 that is held in place bycollars 203, which are coupled to theleaves flanges 205. The handle can be fixedly coupled to the collars of one leaf while being pivotably connected to the collars of the other leaf. Alternatively, the handle can be pivotably connected to all of the collars and held in place byend caps 207 disposed on the outer collars to prevent longitudinal movement of the handle. Preferably, most of thehandle 201 is disposed above the edges of theleaves -
FIG. 3 shows alatching mechanism 300 that may engagepush button 105 to releasablylock leg 110 in relation totable top 120. Thelatching mechanism 300 may be coupled totable top 120 usingsupport plate 303. The leg may be coupled to thelatching mechanism 300 usinghinge plate 305 that is rotatably connected thesupport plate 303 atpin 315. Alatch 301, which may be biased towards thepush button release 105 by a mechanism such as a spring (not shown), can be provided to fix thehinge plate 305 in relation to both thesupport plate 303 andtable top 120. Thelatch 301 may include alever 309 that is adapted to engagepush button release 105 withinrecess 125 ofFIG. 1B . The latch may also include aclasp 311 that holds an upper planar surface of thehinge plate 305 to a lower planar surface of the support plate to “lock” theleg 110 in an unfolded position that is generally perpendicular to thetable top 120. - Pressing the
lever 309 downwardly releases thehinge plate 305 so that it may be rotated aboutpin 315 to allow theleg 110 to rotate into a folded position that is generally parallel to thetable top 120. To unfold theleg 110, it can be rotated so that an edge ofhinge plate 303 will push theclasp 311 against biasing force provided by thelatch 301 so thatleg 110 can fully rotate. When the upper planar surface ofhinge plate 305 abuts the lower planar surface of thesupport plate 303, theclasp 311 will spring back due to the biasing force oflatch 301 to lock theleg 110 in place. Theclasp 311 may have a taperedsurface 313 adapted to engage a leading edge ofhinge plate 305 to facilitate unfolding of theleg 110. This kind of arrangement is advantageous for the easy concealment of the mechanism used to lock/unlock the legs of a folding table. -
FIG. 4 shows afolding chair 400 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention. Thechair 400 includes a back 403 and aseat 405 having acushion 406. The back may be supported byrear legs 407 that extend from the surface thechair 400 is resting on to the top ofback 403. Theseat 405 can be pivotably coupled torear legs 407. The front ofseat 405 may be supported byfront legs 409 that are substantially shorter in length thanrear legs 407. Extra lateral support may be provided bysupport 415 that is connected tofront legs 409 on a front end and pivotably connected to a cross-support 416 at a back end. Thesupport 415 primarily provides lateral support in a front-to-back direction, and the cross-support 416 primarily provides lateral support in a side-to-side direction. Here,seat 405,legs support 415, and cross-support 416 include aframe 411 preferably made of lightweight cast aluminum. But other materials that are known to be suitable for constructing folding chairs can be used in accordance with the principles of the invention. - Each of the
front legs 409 may include a slot and keyhole arrangement for locking thechair 400 in an unfolded position.FIG. 4A shows thefront leg 409 having aslot 422 and akeyhole 423 within the leg that both engage atab 417 ofsupport 415. When thetab 417 is seated in theslot 422, thesupport 415 is locked relative to the cross-support 416 and thefront leg 409, thereby preventing theseat 405 from pivoting and “locks” thechair 400 in the unfolded position. Moving thetab 417 to thekeyhole 423 “unlocks” thechair 400 and allows the tab to move in a manner that permits thesupport 415 to rotate relative to thefront leg 409, which, in turn, permits a pivotal motion of theseat 405 to allow folding of thechair 400.FIG. 4B illustrateschair 400 in a folded position. -
FIG. 5 shows a modern style dining table 500 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention. Eachleaf wooden slabs push button release 105 for locking/unlockinglegs 510. Here, thepush button release 105 is shown as an aluminum button to accent thewooden slabs FIG. 6 shows a dining set including table 500 withchairs 400. -
FIG. 7 shows a slat style dining table 600 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention. The table leaves 622, 623 can be made up ofslats 630. Thepush button release 105 can be made of a wood or other material, contrasting to theslats 630 for adding a stylish appeal. -
FIG. 8 shows a transitional table 650 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention. The table 650 may includetapered legs 660 and abeaded skirt 665 for an elegant look. The push button release can be covered by aveneer 656 to match thetable top 670 made up ofleaves -
FIG. 9 illustrates atransitional folding chair 700 using an alternative folding mechanism. Thechair 700 includes a back 703, aseat 705 having acushion 706,rear legs 707,front legs 709,support 715, andcross-support 716. Here, thechair 700 also includes afront cross-support 717 that provides side to side lateral support in a similar manner to the cross-support 716. Thesupport 715 may be joined to thefront cross-support 717 at the front end, and pivotably connected to the cross-support 716 at the rear end. Thefront cross-support 717 is pivotably connected to thefront legs 709. -
FIGS. 9A , 9B, and 9C illustrate the various steps of folding thechair 700.FIGS. 9 and 9A show thechair 700 in an unfolded position suitable for use.FIG. 9B shows that theseat 705 may be rotated off ofpegs 720, which permits thesupport 715 andfront legs 709 to pivot upwardly to fold thechair 700. The chair in a folded position is illustrated byFIG. 9C .FIG. 10 shows the dining set including table 650 withchairs 700. -
FIG. 11 shows a traditional style table 750 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention. The table 750 may includeengraved details 776 in theleaves legs 760 can have the appearance of classic lathe turned legs that end in boxedshoulders 775 integrated into theskirt 765. The push button release, which may covered by aveneer 756 to match the table, operates to lock/unlock thelegs 760. -
FIG. 12 illustrates atraditional folding chair 800 using yet another folding mechanism. As can be seen inFIG. 12A , thefront legs 809 may be folded by pressing apush button release 815 disposed within arecess 825 of theseat 805 that functions similar to the previously described release for a folding table. Pressing thepush button release 805 unlatches thefront legs 809 so that theseat 805 may be rotated and thechair 800 will lay substantially flat for storage.FIG. 13 shows a dining set including table 750 withchairs 800. -
FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding table constructed according to the principles of the invention having a mission style. In particular,FIG. 14 shows a mission style table 850 constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention. Theleaves stone tiles 876 for creating the mission look. Thelegs 860 may be straight and sturdy to provide a hand made look consistent with the mission style. Thepush button release 105 may be made to match either the tiles or wood of table. -
FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary folding chair constructed according to the principles of the invention in an unfolded position. In particular,FIG. 15 shows amission chair 900 that may preferably include the alternative folding mechanism shown inFIG. 9 , but other folding mechanisms that are consistent with the principles of the invention may also be used. -
FIG. 16 shows a dining set incorporating the table ofFIG. 14 with chairs constructed in accordance with the principles of the chair illustrated inFIG. 15 . In particular,FIG. 16 shows a dining set including table 850 withchairs 900. - According to an alternative aspect of the invention, a table 100 may be provided that has a solid, one-
piece table top 120 as shown inFIG. 17 . Such a table 100 may not haveleaves hinge 124. It may, however, have one or morefolding legs 100 and apush release button 105. Thebutton 105 may be pushed down to unlock theleg 100 so that it may fold, or thebutton 105 may be any other suitable mechanism for disengaging a lock or latch that holdsleg 110 in position when the table 100 is unfolded. Thebutton 105 may function as described above with respect toFIG. 1B , although other configuration and mechanisms, as understood by one skilled in the relevant arts, are contemplated and with the scope of the invention.FIG. 18 displays the top of the table 100, andFIG. 19 shows the side of the table. -
FIG. 20 illustrates the underside of the table 100 when thelegs 100 are folded. Thelegs 110 are folded at an angle relative to the sides of the table 100, although any configuration of the legs in a folded position is contemplated and within the scope of the invention. - The invention provides unobtrusive folding mechanisms for both a table and chair that provides a folding table and chair, both of which may be constructed in a number of styles, that are sufficiently decorative for regular, everyday home use.
- While the invention has been described in terms of exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modifications in the spirit and scope of the appended claims. These examples given above are merely illustrative and are not meant to be an exhaustive list of all possible designs, embodiments, applications or modifications of the invention.
Claims (5)
1. A folding table, comprising:
a table top having an upper surface;
at least one leg pivotably coupled to the table top;
a locking mechanism having a portion disposed within a recess in the table top, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to lock the at least one leg in a position substantially perpendicular to the upper surface of the table top when the table is in an unfolded position; and
a release mechanism having a portion disposed within the recess and an upper surface that is substantially planar with the upper surface of the table top, wherein the release mechanism is configured to engage the locking mechanism to release the first leg, thereby permitting the at least one leg to be folded in a position substantially parallel to the upper surface of the table top.
2. The folding table of claim 1 , wherein the locking mechanism comprises a lever arranged at the end of a clasp.
3. The folding table of claim 1 , wherein the release mechanism comprises a push button.
4. The folding table of claim 1 , wherein the at least one leg comprises three legs.
5. The folding table of claim 1 , wherein the at least one leg comprises four legs.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/348,691 US20090114127A1 (en) | 2006-07-21 | 2009-01-05 | Folding table and chair |
PCT/US2010/020037 WO2010078550A2 (en) | 2009-01-05 | 2010-01-04 | Folding table and chair |
US12/836,896 US20110061573A1 (en) | 2006-07-21 | 2010-07-15 | Folding table and chair |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US83213606P | 2006-07-21 | 2006-07-21 | |
US11/878,310 US20080042475A1 (en) | 2006-07-21 | 2007-07-23 | Folding table and chair |
US12/348,691 US20090114127A1 (en) | 2006-07-21 | 2009-01-05 | Folding table and chair |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/878,310 Continuation-In-Part US20080042475A1 (en) | 2006-07-21 | 2007-07-23 | Folding table and chair |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/836,896 Continuation-In-Part US20110061573A1 (en) | 2006-07-21 | 2010-07-15 | Folding table and chair |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090114127A1 true US20090114127A1 (en) | 2009-05-07 |
Family
ID=42310708
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/348,691 Abandoned US20090114127A1 (en) | 2006-07-21 | 2009-01-05 | Folding table and chair |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20090114127A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2010078550A2 (en) |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20140272743A1 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-18 | Angela D. Hill | Decorative Cake Shield and Candle Support |
USD734630S1 (en) | 2014-01-27 | 2015-07-21 | Carl William Bolton | Portable foldable picnic table |
CN106690800A (en) * | 2016-12-14 | 2017-05-24 | 广东技术师范学院 | Table and table cabinet |
USD794366S1 (en) * | 2014-10-03 | 2017-08-15 | Okamura Corporation | Table |
USD794985S1 (en) * | 2014-10-03 | 2017-08-22 | Okamura Corporation | Table |
USD917236S1 (en) | 2014-02-05 | 2021-04-27 | Angela Jones | Decorative cake shield |
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US20140272743A1 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-18 | Angela D. Hill | Decorative Cake Shield and Candle Support |
USD734630S1 (en) | 2014-01-27 | 2015-07-21 | Carl William Bolton | Portable foldable picnic table |
USD917236S1 (en) | 2014-02-05 | 2021-04-27 | Angela Jones | Decorative cake shield |
USD794366S1 (en) * | 2014-10-03 | 2017-08-15 | Okamura Corporation | Table |
USD794985S1 (en) * | 2014-10-03 | 2017-08-22 | Okamura Corporation | Table |
CN106690800A (en) * | 2016-12-14 | 2017-05-24 | 广东技术师范学院 | Table and table cabinet |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2010078550A3 (en) | 2010-10-14 |
WO2010078550A2 (en) | 2010-07-08 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: MECO CORPORATION, TENNESSEE Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:WRIGHT, DOUGLAS G.;REEL/FRAME:022585/0881 Effective date: 20090420 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |