EP2522252B1 - Foldable Table - Google Patents

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a table.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Although the present invention is applicable in connection with tables of various kinds, such as tables for private households, and tables for furnishing offices, meeting rooms or conference rooms, the present invention and the underlying problems will be explained below with reference to a large conference table.

Such conference tables often have large-sized table tops to make room for depositing a variety of files, drawings, and the like, and to ensure that a large number of people can sit at that table. Accordingly, such a conference table also requires a sufficiently stable base.

In most cases, such conference tables are placed in a corresponding conference room. Occasionally it happens that the room is to be used in other ways, whereby the conference table can then disturb and is therefore removed. However, because of their size and stability, conventional conference tables can often be relatively heavy, so that dislocation may be difficult and strenuous is, and the table is still a bulky obstacle even when pushed aside. Generic tables are for example from the FR 2 138 048 A1 or the DE 198 47 398 A1 known.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, the present invention seeks to provide an improved table that can be stowed to save space, effortlessly and without danger to an operator person.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a table having the features of patent claim 1.

Accordingly, a table is provided, which has a first plate part and a second plate part, which are pivotable relative to each other from a utilization position into a storage position. In addition, the table has a first support and a second support, a first rod and a second rod and a transmission with a transmission carrier. The first and second supports serve to support the table against a floor.

Here, the first plate member is pivotally coupled to the first support, while the second plate member is pivotally coupled to the second support. Further, the first plate member is pivotally coupled to the gear carrier about a first axis. The second plate member is pivotally coupled to the gear carrier about a second axis. The first rod is pivotally coupled to the first support about a third axis, and the second rod is pivotally coupled to the second support about a fourth axis. The first rod is with the gear carrier about a fifth axis pivotally coupled, and the second rod is pivotally coupled to the gear carrier about a sixth axis. By means of the transmission in this case a pivoting movement of the first rod is coupled relative to the transmission carrier to a pivoting movement of the second rod relative to the transmission carrier.

The idea of the present invention is to provide a table whose table top has at least a first and a second plate part, which can be brought by pivoting into a position in which the plate parts require considerably less space than in their utilization position. In other words, by the pivotable coupling of the plate parts with the gear carrier and by the pivotable coupling of the supports with the respective associated plate part a foldability of the table according to the invention is achieved. The two rods, by their pivotable coupling with the gear carrier and with the first and the second support respectively, allow correct positioning and alignment of the first and second supports to the plate parts in the utilization position as well as in the stowage of the plate parts. During the Verschwenkvorgangs of the utilization position in the stowage position and also during the reverse pivoting operation of the stowage position in the use position, the first rod and the second rod are pivoted about the fifth axis and the sixth axis with respect to the transmission carrier. Here, the spatial orientation of the first plate member to the first support and to the transmission carrier, while at the same time changes the spatial orientation of the second plate member to the second support and to the transmission carrier. Characterized in that the pivoting movement of the first rod with respect to the transmission carrier means of the gearbox is coupled to the pivoting movement of the second rod relative to the gear carrier, and that, in other words, the pivoting movements of the first and the second rod about the fifth and sixth axis can not be independent of each other, it can be ensured that in the transferring of the plate members from the utilization position to the storage position, and also in the reverse process, the spatial alignment of the first plate member and the first support and the second plate member and the second support to each other and to the transmission carrier in a synchronized manner. A crooked folding or tilting of the table can be avoided. In addition, an easy and effortless movement is achieved by the synchronization of the movement by means of the transmission and avoid damage to individual components by unintended forces.

Advantageous embodiments and further developments will become apparent from the other dependent claims and from the description with reference to the figures of the drawing.

According to one embodiment, the first rod and the second rod are arranged such that they intersect when pivoting the plate parts from the utilization position into the storage position. In a preferred embodiment, the first rod and the second rod are also arranged such that they intersect each other during the entire pivoting movement of the plate members from the utilization position into the stowage position. Particularly preferably, the first rod and the second rod also cross each other in the utilization position and in the stowage position. Due to the crosswise arrangement of the first and second rod can be advantageously achieved that the first support and the second support in the stowage of the plate parts, in other words, in the folded state of the table are aligned in the same way to the ground as in the utilization position, ie the unfolded state of the table. At the same time, the rods crossing each other make it possible to achieve a dead center situation between the utilization position and the stowage position. During the pivoting process of the plate parts, an approximation to the dead center situation can initially take place, and then an overrun of this. Also starting from the stowage position, the configuration may approach the position of the dead center during pivoting of the plate parts in the direction of the utilization position, wherein the latter is in turn passed over.

In a further embodiment of the inventive table, the first axis and the second axis are arranged spaced from each other. This makes it possible to abut the first and second plate parts in the use position in a clean and aesthetic as well as narrow joint, while at the same time the first axis at a small distance from the first plate member and the second axis are arranged at a small distance from the second plate member can. At the same time, space is created between the first and the second plate part for accommodating the bars and the supports in the stowed position of the plate parts, and a substructure for the plate parts, for example involving trusses, profiles, carrier elements or housings, can be slender.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the fifth axis and the sixth axis are arranged spaced from each other. As a result, a particularly simple transmission can be used for synchronizing the motion sequence, for example a gear with gears rotatably mounted about the fifth and the sixth axis or gear segments.

In a particularly preferred improvement of the table according to the invention, the first axis, the sixth axis and the fourth axis can occupy a position relative to one another during the pivoting of the plate parts between the utilization position and the stowage position in which the first, sixth and fourth axes are arranged in a first plane , The first, sixth and fourth axes are then within the first level. At the same time, in this improvement, the second axis, the fifth axis and the third axis can assume a position relative to one another during the pivoting of the plate parts between the utilization position and the stowage position in which the second, fifth and third axes are arranged in a second plane, in other words to lie in the second level. In this position of the first, sixth and fourth axes to each other and the second, fifth and third axes to each other during the pivoting of the plate parts reaches the dead center situation. While coming from the utilization situation, the weight forces acting on the components of the table, and in particular on the plate parts, cause the plate parts to be released when the table is released before the dead center situation is reached, in the absence of other forces to control the movement of the plate parts endeavor to return to the utilization position, the weight forces act on the components of the table after passing the dead center situation and in particular in the stowage of the plate parts in such a way that the plate parts the Maintain storage. Preferably, the dead center situation is selected in such a way that even a slight deflection of the first and second plate parts from the stowage position does not lead to the dead center situation being exceeded, and the plate parts disturbed in this way automatically return to the stowage position by themselves. It then requires a deliberate action by an operator to bring the plate parts of the table in the utilization position. It is advantageous in this improvement of the invention not necessary to provide an additional locking device to lock the plate parts in the stowed position.

In a further embodiment of the inventive table, the first plane and the second plane are inclined to each other. This can be avoided, for example, that the first support and the second support in the stowage of the plate parts engage with each other. This allows, for example, with space-saving construction of the supports nevertheless a stable even in the stowage table. In addition, a symmetrical design and opposing arrangement of the supports is possible, which may also be advantageous for aesthetic reasons.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the first axis, the second axis, the third axis, the fourth axis, the fifth axis and the sixth axis are arranged substantially parallel to each other. This allows a simple, manageable for the operator folding without the risk of jamming.

In a preferred embodiment of the table according to the invention are with respect to a plane of symmetry, which in the Verstaulage the plate members are centered between the plate members, the first axis is symmetrical about the second axis, the third axis is symmetrical about the fourth axis and the fifth axis is symmetrical about the sixth axis. Preferably, in this embodiment, in addition, the first plate part is formed symmetrically with respect to the second plate part with respect to this plane of symmetry. Also, the first support may be formed symmetrically with respect to the second support with respect to this plane of symmetry. As a result, a pivoting or folding process is achieved, which proceeds on both sides of the plane of symmetry in the same way and thus is particularly aesthetic, manageable and safe. In addition, a symmetrical construction in this way allows a rational production of the table according to the invention.

In an advantageous embodiment, the transmission is designed as a form-fitting acting gear. Preferably, the transmission couples the pivoting movements of the first and second rods relative to the transmission carrier with each other by means of a toothing. Such a transmission makes it possible to couple the pivoting movements of the two rods with respect to the gear carrier without slippage. As a result, misalignments of the first and second plate parts, the first and second rods and the first and second supports and the gear carrier to each other even with multiple folding and unfolding of the table can be avoided.

In a further embodiment, the transmission has two gear segments in engagement with each other. Here, a first of the gear segments about the fifth axis is rotatably mounted on the transmission carrier. There is also a second one the gear segments rotatably supported about the sixth axis on the transmission carrier. An end portion of the first rod is fixed to the first gear segment, and an end portion of the second rod is fixed to the second gear segment. Such gear transmissions have a simple structure, a high reliability and build with small dimensions. Thus, with this embodiment, an even more reliable foldable table is created in which the transmission can be accommodated in a space-saving and unobtrusive way.

According to a further embodiment of the table according to the invention, the first support and the second support each have a foot section. The respective foot section is provided with one or more rollers, which are intended to carry the table rollingly displaceable. The table according to the invention thereby becomes even more practical in use. He can be on the roles both in the use position of the table tops in a simple manner within a building, a conference room or the like back and forth, as well rolled in the stowage of the plate parts after folding, for example, in a corner, where he then its small footprint does not bother.

In a further embodiment, the rollers are each pivotally coupled about a pivot axis with the foot portion of the associated support, wherein the pivot axes of the rollers provided on the first support and those on the second support in the use position and in the storage position are aligned substantially parallel to each other. This allows easy driving of the table both in the use position and in the stowage in several directions, in other words, a steering of the table when moving is possible.

Clamping the rollers in their pivotal movement about the pivot axes is avoided by a parallel arrangement of these in the utilization position and in the stowage position. Preferably, the pivot axes of the rollers provided on the first and second supports in the utilization position and in the stowage position of the plate members are respectively aligned substantially perpendicular to the ground.

In a further preferred embodiment, the supports are each formed with two legs. Here, the legs each have a first bend. The legs of the same support are each connected to each other in the region of the first bend by a cross bar. On the crossbar coupled to the respective support rod is pivotally mounted. As a result, a table with an even greater stability, especially in the stowage, created. While the transverse rods of the first and second supports may be arranged adjacent to one another in the stowage position, the foot portions of the first and second supports may have a greater distance from each other through the first angling in the stowage position, which is advantageous for good stability of the folded table.

In a further embodiment, the legs further each have a second bend. The second bend is adjacent to a head portion of the post which is adapted to pivotally couple the post to the associated plate member. As a result, it can be achieved, for example, that the first and second plate parts in the stowage position are aligned parallel to one another, that at the same time there is sufficient space between the plate parts for accommodating the transmission and the transmission carrier remains and that there is no collision between the plate parts and the supports.

In an advantageous embodiment, the legs are made of a straight pipe semi-finished product. The angled portions are here produced by the introduction of recesses into the semi-finished tube, in particular by means of a laser processing, and by subsequent bending of the recesses adjacent remaining material areas and by subsequent welding at least portions of the edges of the respective recess. In this case, each of the legs can be advantageously manufactured as a one-piece part. For example, each of the legs may be programmed as a one-piece workpiece for processing using tube laser technology. In one go, all required cutouts or recesses can be introduced into the semi-finished tube and the semi-finished tube can advantageously be cut to length. The bending around the remaining material areas can be done in a simple manner by hand with a small bending radius in the manner of a bend around these material areas. To weld the edges, the pieces of the prepared in this way semi-finished tube can then be placed in a simple device. A separate preparation of several mitred items, which are then connected together in elaborate devices, for example by soldering, can be omitted.

In a further embodiment, a third plate part can be fixedly connected to the gear carrier. Preferably, the third plate part is arranged on an upper side of the transmission carrier. When pivoting the first and second plate parts from the utilization position into the stowage position, this retains third plate part thus its position relative to the gear carrier at. In this embodiment, the third plate member together with the first and the second plate member in their use position a table top of the table by then preferably between the first plate member and the second plate member is arranged in a plane therewith and with both plate parts each have a narrow gap through which it adjoins the plate parts.

The above embodiments and developments can, if appropriate, combine with each other as desired. Further possible refinements, developments and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention which have not been explicitly mentioned above or described below with regard to the exemplary embodiments. In this case, the person skilled in the art will in particular also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention.

CONTENTS OF THE DRAWINGS

Figur 1

einen Tisch gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung, in einer Seitenansicht, wobei sich die Plattenteile in der Nutzungslage befinden;

Figur 2

den Tisch der Figur 1 in einer Stirnansicht;

Figur 3

den Tisch in dem Zustand der Figur 1, wobei ein Teil eines Getriebeträgers entfernt wurde und ein Getriebe sichtbar ist;

Figur 4

ein Detail A, wie in Figur 3 bezeichnet;

Figur 5

das Detail A der Figur 3, wobei zur Veranschaulichung ergänzend zwei Gasdruckfedern dargestellt sind;

Figur 6

der Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel während des Verschwenkens der Plattenteile aus der Nutzungslage in eine Verstaulage, kurz nach Beginn des Verschwenkvorgangs, wobei wiederum ein Teil des Getriebeträgers zur besseren Übersicht entfernt ist;

Figur 7

ein Detail B, wie in Figur 6 bezeichnet;

Figur 8

der Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel, während des Verschwenkens der Plattenteile aus der Nutzungslage in die Verstaulage, in einem Zustand, welcher auf den Zustand der Figur 6 folgt, beim Überfahren einer Totpunktsituation, wobei auch hier ein Teil des Getriebeträgers nicht dargestellt ist;

Figur 9

ein Detail C, wie in Figur 8 bezeichnet;

Figur 10

der Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei sich die Plattenteile in der Verstaulage befinden, und wobei ein Teil des Getriebeträgers entfernt ist und das Getriebe auch in diesem Zustand sichtbar ist;

Figur 11

ein Detail D, wie in Figur 10 bezeichnet;

Figur 12

das Detail D der Figur 10, wobei zur Veranschaulichung zusätzlich die Gasdruckfedern ergänzt sind;

Figur 13

der Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei die Plattenteile in der Verstaulage der Figur 10 angeordnet sind, der Getriebeträger vollständig dargestellt ist und die Gasdruckfedern gezeigt sind;

Figur 14

der Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei sich die Plattenteile in der Verstaulage befinden, in einer Stirnansicht;

Figur 15

der Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei sich die Plattenteile in der Verstaulage befinden, in einer Variante des Ausführungsbeispiels, in einer Stirnansicht;

Figur 16

die Darstellung einiger Bauteile des Tisches gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel in einer Explosionsansicht;

Figur 17

eine detaillierte Explosionsansicht, welche einige der in Figur 16 dargestellten Bauteile zeigt;

Figur 18

ein Bein für eine Stütze des Tisches gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel, während der Fertigung, wobei einzelne Abschnitte des Beins bereits gegeneinander abgewinkelt sind;

Figur 19

ein Teil eines Kopfabschnitts des Beins der Figur 18;

Figur 20

ein mittels der Rohrlasertechnik bearbeitetes Rohrhalbzeug für das Bein der Figur 18, in einem Bereich, in dem in einem nachfolgenden Bearbeitungsschritt eine erste Abwinklung des Beins erzeugt werden wird;

Figur 21

eine weitere Ansicht des in Figur 20 gezeigten Bereichs des Rohrhalbzeugs, wobei das Rohrhalbzeug gegenüber der Lage der Figur 20 verdreht ist;

Figur 22

eine dritte Ansicht des in Figur 20 gezeigten Bereichs des Rohrhalbzeugs, wobei das Rohrhalbzeug gegenüber der Lage der Figur 20 noch weiter verdreht ist; und

Figur 23

das mittels der Rohrlasertechnik bearbeitete Rohrhalbzeug in einem Bereich, in dem in einem nachfolgenden Bearbeitungsschritt eine zweite Abwinklung des Beins erzeugt werden wird.

The present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments indicated in the schematic figures of the drawings. Hereby show:

FIG. 1

a table according to an embodiment of the invention, in a side view, wherein the plate parts are in the use position;

FIG. 2

the table of FIG. 1 in an end view;

FIG. 3

the table in the state of FIG. 1 wherein a part of a transmission carrier has been removed and a transmission is visible;

FIG. 4

a detail A, as in FIG. 3 designated;

FIG. 5

the detail A of the FIG. 3 , wherein two gas spring springs are additionally shown for illustrative purposes;

FIG. 6

the table according to the embodiment during the pivoting of the plate parts from the utilization position in a stowage position, shortly after the start of the pivoting operation, again a part of the gear carrier is removed for clarity;

FIG. 7

a detail B, as in FIG. 6 designated;

FIG. 8

the table according to the embodiment, during the pivoting of the plate parts from the utilization position in the stowage position, in a state which on the state of FIG. 6 follows, when driving over a dead center situation, whereby also here a part of the gear carrier is not shown;

FIG. 9

a detail C, as in FIG. 8 designated;

FIG. 10

the table according to the embodiment, wherein the plate parts are in the stowed position, and wherein a part of the transmission carrier is removed and the transmission is visible even in this state;

FIG. 11

a detail D, as in FIG. 10 designated;

FIG. 12

the detail D of the FIG. 10 in addition, for illustrative purposes, the gas springs are supplemented;

FIG. 13

the table according to the embodiment, wherein the plate parts in the stowed the FIG. 10 are arranged, the transmission carrier is fully shown and the gas springs are shown;

FIG. 14

the table according to the embodiment, wherein the plate parts are in the storage position, in an end view;

FIG. 15

the table according to the embodiment, wherein the plate parts are in the storage position, in a variant of the embodiment, in an end view;

FIG. 16

the representation of some components of the table according to the embodiment in an exploded view;

FIG. 17

a detailed exploded view, which some of the in FIG. 16 shown components;

FIG. 18

a leg for supporting the table according to the embodiment, during manufacture, wherein individual sections of the leg are already angled against each other;

FIG. 19

a portion of a head portion of the leg of Figure 18;

FIG. 20

a processed by means of the tube laser tube technology for the leg of the FIG. 18 in a region in which a first bend of the leg will be generated in a subsequent processing step;

FIG. 21

another view of the in FIG. 20 shown portion of the pipe semi-finished product, the semi-finished tube over the position of FIG. 20 is twisted;

FIG. 22

a third view of the in FIG. 20 shown portion of the pipe semi-finished product, the semi-finished tube over the position of FIG. 20 still further twisted; and

FIG. 23

the processed by means of tube laser tube technology in a range in which in a subsequent processing step, a second bend of the leg will be generated.

The accompanying drawings are intended to provide further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and serve in conjunction with the description of the explanation of principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the stated advantages will become apparent with reference to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale to each other.

In the figures of the drawing are the same, functionally identical and equivalent elements, features and components, unless otherwise stated - have been provided with the same reference numerals.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows a table 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The table 1 has a first plate part 2a and a second plate part 2b, which are in FIG. 1 in a utilization situation. In the utilization position, the plate parts 2a and 2b are arranged substantially in one plane and form a table top of the table 1. On the underside, the plate parts 2a and 2b by trusses 3, which may be formed, for example, as a profile carrier made of metal, reinforced. Furthermore, two supports 4a and 4b are provided, which support the table 1 against a horizontally extending H in the bottom 5. In addition, the table 1 has a first rod 6a and a second rod 6b, and a gear carrier 7, a in FIG. 1 not visible, since the transmission carrier 7 concealed transmission 8 carries. In the utilization position of the plate parts 2a and 2b, the pillars 4a, 4b, the rods 6a, 6b and the gear carrier 7 with the gear 8 are arranged below the first and second plate parts 2a and 2b. The first support 4a and the second support 4b each have a foot portion 13a and 13b, wherein at the foot portions 13a, 13b rollers 12 are provided, by means of which the table 1 can be moved on the floor 5 rolling.

FIG. 2 shows the table 1 in an end view. In FIG. 2 the second support 4b is visible, wherein the first support 4a is formed in a similar manner. The second support 4b has two legs 15 extending from the second plate part 2b toward the bottom 5. Each of the legs 15 has a first angled portion 16, see also FIG. 1 , There, each of the legs 15 is angled at an obtuse angle. The two legs 15 of the second support 4b are connected to one another in the region of the respective first bend 16 by a transverse rod 18, wherein the transverse rod 18 in this exemplary embodiment preferably extends substantially parallel to the base 5. As FIG. 2 shows, the second rod 6b is pivotally mounted on the cross bar 18 of the second support 4b. Similarly, the first rod 2a is supported on a crossbar 18 connecting two legs 15 of the first support 4a.

FIG. 3 shows the table 1 according to the embodiment of the invention again in the state of FIG. 1 However, this time the gear 8 is visible. The gear carrier 7 is formed with two gear carrier parts 7a and 7b, of which in FIG. 3 the front gear carrier part 7a is not shown. At the in FIG. 3 shown foldable table 1, the first plate part 2a is pivotally coupled to the gear carrier 7 about a first axis 21. Similarly, the second plate member 2 b is pivotally coupled to the gear carrier 7 about a second axis 22. The first rod 6a is pivotally coupled to the first support 4a about a third axis 23, in that the first rod 6a is pivotally mounted on the crossbar 18 between the legs 15 of the first support 4a, similar to FIG FIG. 2 shown. Similarly, the second rod 6b is pivotally coupled to the second support 4b about a fourth axis 24. Here, the bearings of the first rod 6a and the second rod 6b on the respective cross bar 18 are slightly offset from each other, see FIG. 2 whereby the rods 6a and 6b can cross each other. The pivotable mounting of the first rod 6a and the second rod 6b on the respective crossbar 18 takes place at a respective end of the first and second rod 6a, 6b.

As FIG. 3 Furthermore, the first rod 6a is also coupled at its end remote from the third axis 23 about a fifth axis 25 pivotally connected to the gear carrier 7. Similarly, the second rod 6b is pivotally coupled to the gear carrier 7 at its end remote from the fourth axis 24 about a sixth axis 26.

In addition, as also in FIG. 3 shown, the plate parts 2a, 2b pivotally coupled to the respective support 4a, 4b. In detail, the first plate part 2a is mediated via the associated trusses 3 about a seventh axis 27 pivotally mounted on the first support 4a, while the second plate part 2b mediated via the associated trusses 3 about an eighth axis 28 is pivotally mounted on the second support 4b ,

A plane of symmetry S extends into FIG. 3 along a vertical direction V substantially perpendicular to the bottom 5 and substantially perpendicular to the table top of the table 1, which coincides with the two plate parts 2a and 2b in the utilization position is formed. In the presentation of the FIG. 3 the plane S is shown projecting. The first axis 21, the second axis 22, the third axis 23, the fourth axis 24, the fifth axis 25, the sixth axis 26, the seventh axis 27 and the eighth axis 28 are in the illustration of FIG. 3 also shown projecting, are substantially parallel and have a substantially symmetrical arrangement with respect to the plane of symmetry S. In detail, this means that the first axis 21 is arranged with respect to the plane S substantially symmetrically to the second axis 22 and spaced therefrom, the third axis 23 with respect to S to the fourth axis 24 is arranged substantially symmetrically, the fifth axis 25th with respect to the plane S to the sixth axis 26 is substantially symmetrical and spaced therefrom, and the seventh axis 27 is arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to the plane S to the eighth axis 28. The third, fourth, fifth and sixth axes 23, 24, 25 and 26 are arranged in such a manner that the rods 6a and 6b cross each other substantially in the plane of symmetry S.

As from the enlargement of detail A of FIG. 4 can be seen, the gear 8 is formed positively acting with a toothing 9. An end portion of the first rod 6a is attached to a first gear segment 10a, wherein the first gear segment 10a is rotatably supported about the fifth axis 25 on the gear carrier 7, for example on a bearing pin projecting from the first gear carrier part 7a or the second gear carrier part 7b. The second rod 6b is attached to an end portion on a second gear segment 10b, which is rotatably mounted about the sixth axis 26 on the gear carrier 7, also for example on a provided for this journal. The two gear segments 10a and 10b are engaged with each other with their teeth. A pivoting of the first rod 6a relative to the gear carrier 7 is thereby coupled to a pivoting of the second rod 6b relative to the gear carrier 7, in other words, the two rods 6a and 6b can not be pivoted independently of each other with respect to the gear carrier 7. FIG. 4 also shows that in the utilization position, the plate parts 2a and 2b above the transmission carrier 7, of which only the second transmission carrier part 7b is shown here, abut one another in a gap 20 which is as small as possible in the use position. Adjacent to the gap 20, each of the plate parts 2a, 2b has a hook 50 which can be engaged with an associated projection 51 of the gear carrier 7 for locking the respective plate part 2a, 2b in the utilization position. For locking and releasing the locking of the respective plate member 2a, 2b with the gear carrier 7, an actuating element 52 is provided, by means of which the hook 50 and the projection 51 can be clamped against each other and also disengaged.

FIG. 5 again shows approximately the image section of the FIG. 4 , wherein in turn the first gear carrier part 7a is omitted to make the gear 8 with the teeth 9 visible. Additionally are in FIG. 5 two gas springs 11 are plotted, one of which is pivotally coupled at its upper end at an attachment point 11b with the first plate member 2a, while the other gas spring 11 is pivotally coupled at an attachment point 11b with the second plate member 2b. At their lower ends, the gas springs 11 are both pivotally mounted on the not visible here transmission support member 7a in attachment points 11b, wherein the transmission support part 7a in the use state of the table 1 with the transmission support member 7b is firmly connected to form the transmission carrier 7. The gas springs 11 serve as energy storage, which receive or release potential energy when pivoting the plate parts 2a, 2b about the first axis 21 and the second axis 22 relative to the transmission carrier 7. In FIG. 5 behind the second gear carrier part 7b, two further gas springs 11 are arranged, which are coupled in the same manner as just described with the plate parts 2a, 2b and the gear carrier 7.

The table 1 according to the embodiment of the invention, by pivoting the plate members 2 a and 2 b relative to each other from the in the FIGS. 1 and 3 shown utilization position of the plate parts 2a, 2b are folded into a stowage position of these plate parts 2a, 2b. FIG. 6 shows the beginning of the folding process. The supports 4a and 4b in this case move towards one another in the direction of the arrows 61a or 61b, the rollers 12 rolling on the base 5. At the same time, the gear carrier 7 is raised in the direction of arrow 62 vertically upwards. At this time, the first plate part 2a pivots about the first axis 21 with respect to the gear carrier 7, and the second plate part 2b pivots about the axis 22 with respect to the gear carrier 7. At the same time, the first plate part 2a pivots about the seventh axis with respect to the first pillar 4a 27 and the second plate member 2b pivoted about the eighth axis 28 with respect to the second support 4b. The first rod 6a pivots about the third axis 23 relative to the first support 4a, and the second rod 6b pivots about the fourth axis 24 relative to the second support 4b. Like the detail of FIG. 7 shows more clearly, in this case the rods 6a and 6b pivot at the same time with respect to the gear carrier 7 by the fifth Axis 25 and about the sixth axis 26, wherein the pivoting movements about the axes 25 and 26 by the positive gear 8 can not be done independently. In this way, the pivotal and translational movements of the supports 4a and 4b, the plate parts 2a and 2b and the rods 6a and 6b are synchronized, it is ensured that the parts can not assume any undesirable misalignments to each other, and it is ensured that the transmission carrier 7 remains in the folding operation in a horizontal position parallel to the bottom 5, in other words, that the two axes 25 and 26 occupy no different height above the bottom 5. This means that the gear carrier 7 in the transfer of the plate parts 2a, 2b from the utilization position into the storage position no pivoting movement, but only a vertical translation 62 performs.

The rollers 12 provided on the supports 4a and 4b are pivotally coupled to the foot sections 13a and 13b, respectively, about pivot axes 33. This pivotal mounting of the rollers 12 makes it possible to move the table 1 rolling in different directions on the floor 5, both in the utilization position of the plate parts 2a, 2b and in their stowage position. As FIG. 3 shows, the pivot axes 33 of the rollers 12 mounted on the first support 4a and the second support 4b in the utilization position of the plate parts 2a, 2b are substantially parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the bottom 5, whereby all rollers 12 without clamping can be pivoted and the table 1 can be easily rolled back and forth. In the state of FIG. 6 On the other hand, the pivot axes 33 are slightly inclined to each other, yet there remains a trouble to move toward each other of the supports 4a and 4b in the direction of arrows 61a and 61b by rolling the rollers 12 on the bottom 5 possible.

FIG. 8 shows a further state, which takes the table 1 during the pivoting of the plate parts 2a and 2b of their use position in the stowage position. In the state of FIG. 8 The first, fourth and sixth axes 21, 24 and 26, which in turn are shown projecting, lie in a first plane 31, while the second, third and fifth axes 22, 23 and 25, which are likewise projecting, lie in a second plane 32. The levels 31 and 32 are how FIG. 8 shows, inclined to each other and enclose with each other an acute angle α. In this state, the plate parts 2a, 2b, the rods 6a, 6b, the supports 4a, 4b and the gear carrier 7 have reached a dead center situation. Figure 9 shows in detail C the position of the gear segments 10a and 10b to each other when reaching the dead center situation.

On all components of the table 1 act in a substantially vertical direction V weight forces. When pivoting the plate parts 2a and 2b of the use position in the stowage the plate parts 2a and 2b strive after crossing the in FIG. 8 shown dead center situation, ie between dead center situation and stowage, under the effect of weight forces no longer alone on the use situation.

The pivoting operation of the plate parts 2 a, 2 b is supported by the gas pressure springs 11. The forces applied by the gas pressure springs 11 on the plate parts 2a, 2b and the gear carrier 7 are preferably adjusted in such a way that the plate parts 2a and 2b between the dead center situation and occupy a position of equilibrium, in which the applied weight forces are compensated by the gas pressure springs 11. When pivoting the plate parts 2a, 2b from the stowed position into the utilization position, an operator then has to apply a force from above onto one or both plate parts 2a, 2b when reaching the equilibrium position, ie deliberately press lightly in order to transfer them into the utilization position. In the equilibrium position mutually facing edge portions of the plate parts 2a, 2b, which form the gap 20 in the use position with each other, yet sufficiently spaced apart to avoid pinching the fingers of the operator between these edge portions.

Conversely, relax the gas springs 11 when releasing the locking of the plate parts 2a, 2b on the gear carrier 7 and thus support the return movement of the plate parts 2a, 2b in the equilibrium position. Subsequently, the plate parts can be transferred by little effort by the operator person on the dead center situation away in the stowage position.

The Figures 10-15 Finally, show the table 1 according to this embodiment in a state in which the first and second plate parts 2a and 2b have reached their stowage position. The force acting on the components of the table 1 weight forces cause in this stowed state, characterized in that the dead center situation has been run over that the two plate parts 2 a and 2 b do not automatically pivot out of the stowage position. Instead, it requires a defined action by the operator person, for example by pulling on ends of the two plate parts 2a and 2b in the direction of arrow 63a or 63b to unfold the table again. A separate locking device for locking the first and second plate parts 2a and 2b in the storage position is not required. The supports 4a and 4b are in the state of Figure 10 to a large extent between the substantially parallel aligned first and second plate parts 2a and 2b. The pivot axes 33 about which the rollers 12 are pivotable with respect to the supports 4a and 4b, extend in the state of FIG. 10 , in which the plate parts 2a, 2b occupy the stowage, again substantially parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the bottom 5. Thus, the space-saving folded table 1 can be easily moved in different directions on the floor 5 rolling. FIG. 11 shows the position of the transmission 8 in the stowage position of the first and second plate parts 2a, 2b in detail. In addition, in FIG. 11 the attachment points 11b and the longitudinal axes 11 of the gas springs 11 located. In the state of FIG. 11 the gas springs 11 have given the stored energy in them and reached their maximum length.

FIG. 12 shows the view of FIG. 11 again, wherein on the first transmission support part 7a, which in turn is not shown, attached gas pressure springs 11 are now shown. As FIG. 12 shows, in this state, the piston rod of the gas springs drove out far.

As from the synopsis of FIGS. 4 . 7 . 9 and 10 As can be seen, the rods 6a and 6b cross each other in the stowage position and in the utilization position of the plate parts 2a, 2b, as well as during the entire pivoting process of these.

FIG. 13 shows the in FIG. 10 illustrated state of the table 1 again, this time the first gear carrier part 7a and the gas pressure springs 11 are shown.

The Figures 14 and 15 show front views of the table 1 in the stowed the FIG. 10 , In the variant of FIG. 14 For example, the second plate part 2b shown here has an approximately central opening 19, through which the rods 6a and 6b are visible. Alternatively, the plate parts 2 a, 2 b may be performed continuously without opening, such as FIG. 15 shows. Of course, also plate parts 2 a, 2 b may be used with a different shape and in the unfolded state of the table 1, for example, instead of a substantially rectangular also form an oval or boat-shaped table top.

The exploded drawings of the Figures 16 and 17 make again the pivotal coupling of the supports 4a, 4b with the plate parts 2a, 2b and the pivotal coupling of the gear carrier 7 with the plate parts 2a, 2b clearly. At the bottom of the plate member 2 a, 2 b two trusses 3 are attached. The first and second supports 4a, 4b are each pivotally mounted with respect to the trusses 3. With the trusses 3 of each of the plate parts 2a, 2b and the associated plate part, a housing 70 is firmly connected. This housing 70 is pivotally mounted on the gear carrier 7 about the axes 21 and 22 and thereby couples the respective plate member pivotally connected to the transmission carrier 7. The gas springs 11 are pivotally mounted in the region of their upper ends to the respective housing 70. FIG. 16 also shows how the legs 15 of the support 4b, in similar As the support 4a is formed, in the region of the head portion 14b has a second bend 17.

The FIG. 17 shows again in detail the pivotal mounting of the second rod 6b on the cross bar 18 of the second support 4b, as well as some components of the gear carrier 7 and the transmission 8. How FIG. 17 shows, the transmission carrier 7 is formed with a first transmission carrier part 7a and a second transmission carrier part 7b, which together form the transmission carrier 7 and thus also a transmission housing for the transmission 8. For this purpose, the gear carrier parts 7a and 7b, for example, be firmly bolted together. Further shows FIG. 17 in that on both sides of the gear carrier 7 further connecting pieces 7c and 7b can be provided, which are also pivotable relative to the plate parts 2a and 2b about the first axis 21 and the second axis 22, respectively. The connecting pieces 7c and 7d improve the rigidity of the construction and contribute to an effortless folding process. For this purpose, the connecting pieces 7c, 7d are pivotally mounted on both housings 70 in the embodiment shown.

In the Figures 18-23 the production of the legs 15 for the two supports 4a and 4b is shown. FIG. 18 shows a leg 15 during the manufacture of the leg 15 from a previously straight tube blank 34. Preferably, the tube blank 34 is formed of steel. In the state of FIG. 18 For example, individual portions of the semi-finished tube 34 are already angled against each other to form the leg 15, whereby the first and second angled portions 16 and 17 are formed. Adjacent to the second bend 17, the leg has an opening 38 and an end rounded 39. This is in FIG. 19 in detail shown. The opening 38 serves to connect the legs 15 of a support and the bearing of the support to the adjacent cross member 3, see FIG. 16 , In order to avoid jamming of the leg 15 against the associated plate member during pivoting of the plate member relative to the support, the rounding 39 is provided.

The Figures 20-22 show a piece of semi-finished tube 34, in which by means of the tube laser technology, a recess 35 has been introduced. This leaves a piece of material 35 ', which is initially connected to the remaining material of the tube semi-finished product 34 by remaining, very thin material bridges. In the further manufacturing process, the laser-machined semi-finished tube 34 is transported, then the remaining pieces of material 35 'knocked out and the semi-finished tube 34 subsequently bent by hand to material areas of the tube blank 34, which the recesses 35 are left adjacent, with a small bending radius. In other words, through the recess 35, the tube blank 34 was not completely severed at this point. When bending or kinking reach portions 36 of the edges 37 of the same recess 35 to bear against each other and can then be welded. For this purpose, the pre-bent pipe semi-finished product 34 can be inserted into a simple device. At the in the Figures 20-22 In this way, the first bend 16 of the leg 15 is formed. The recess 35, as shown in FIGS Figures 20-22 is shown, is designed in such a way that after the welding of the portions 36, a round opening for receiving the cross bar 18 remains.

In FIG. 23 a further section of the initially straight tube semi-finished product 34 is shown. In this area is after the Striking out of a piece of material 35 'and by a subsequent bending and welding the second bend 17 of the leg 15 arise.

In order to facilitate a correct bending or kinking and to ensure that the edges 37 of the recess 35 then come to lie in a correct manner to each other and properly welded, positioning aids in the form of elevations 40 and recesses 41 are provided at the edges 37. With proper juxtaposition of the edges 37 of the recesses 35, the survey 40 engages in the associated recess 41 a.

The Figures 18-23 make it clear that the leg 15 for the supports 4a, 4b can be made very easily in this way. All required recesses 35, openings 38, rounded portions 39 and the like can be introduced in a train by means of the tube laser technology in a straight tube semi-finished product 34. The material pieces 35 'are initially still connected to the residual material of the tube semi-finished product 34 after the laser processing. In the further processing, the pieces of material 35 'are simply broken out, the cut-to-length tube blank 34 then bent by hand to position, placed in a simple device and subsequently desired portions 36 of the edges 37 of the recess 35 or the entire edge 37 of a recess 35 welded together. In FIG. 18 the state of the leg is shown just prior to welding these edges.

Legs 15 made in this way for the table 1 are inexpensive to manufacture and still have the required stability. Due to the initially remaining pieces of material 35 ', the semi-finished tube for the production of the legs 15 can be easily transported and handled after the laser processing beyond.

Although the present invention has been fully described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto, but is modifiable in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the claims as defined by the claims. For example, it is not necessary to provide the supports with rollers. Instead, the foot portions of the supports may also be provided, for example, with sliders for easy movement, for example on a carpet.
In addition, it is not necessary to form the gear with a toothing, although this is very advantageous. Instead, the transmission can also be designed as a chain transmission, a cable transmission or the like.
The invention is also not limited to use in office conference furniture. Although the present invention is particularly advantageous there, it may equally apply to table furniture for home, garden tables or the like.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

table

2a

first plate part

2 B

second plate part

3

traverse

4a

first support

4b

second support

5

ground

6a

first pole

6b

second pole

7

gear carrier

7a

first gear carrier part

7b

second transmission carrier part

7c, 7d

joint

8th

transmission

9

gearing

10a

first gear segment

10b

second gear segment

11

Gas spring

11a

Longitudinal axis (gas spring)

11b

Attachment point (gas spring)

12

role

13a, 13b

foot section

14a, 14b

header

15

leg

16

first bend (leg)

17

second bend (leg)

18

crossbar

19

opening

20

gap

21

first axis

22

second axis

23

third axis

24

fourth axis

25

fifth axis

26

sixth axis

27

seventh axis

28

eighth axis

31

first floor

32

second level

33

Pivot axis (roller)

34

Tube semis

35

recess

35 '

piece of material

36

section

37

edge

38

opening

39

rounding off

40

survey

41

deepening

50

hook

51

head Start

52

jig

61a

Direction of movement (first support)

61b

Direction of movement (second support)

62

Direction of movement (gear carrier)

63a

Pulling direction (first plate part)

63b

Draw direction (second plate part)

70

casing

H

Horizontal direction

V

Vertical direction

S

plane of symmetry

α

angle

Claims (14)

1. Table (1) with a first (2a) and a second (2b) panel portion, capable of pivoting relative to one another from an operating position into a stowing position;
   with a first (4a) and a second (4b) prop for propping the table (1) on a floor (5);
   with a first (6a) and a second (6b) bar; and with gearing (8) and a gearing bearer (7);
   wherein the first panel portion (2a) is coupled pivotably to the first prop (4a) and the second panel portion (2b) is coupled pivotably to the second prop (4b);
   wherein the first panel portion (2a) is coupled pivotably to the gearing bearer (7) around a first axis (21) and the second panel portion (2b) is coupled pivotably to the gearing bearer (7) around a second axis (22), wherein the first bar (6a) is coupled pivotably to the first prop (4a) around a third axis (23) and the second bar (6b) is coupled pivotably to the second prop (4b) around a fourth axis (24);
   wherein the first bar (6a) is coupled pivotably to the gearing bearer (7) around a fifth axis (25) and the second bar (6b) is coupled pivotably to the gearing bearer (7) around a sixth axis (26);
   wherein by means of the gearing (8) a pivoting of the first bar (6a) relative to the gearing bearer (7) is coupled to a pivoting of the second bar (6b) relative to the gearing bearer (7), characterised in that the table (1) has four gas pressure springs (11),
   two of the gas pressure springs (11) being coupled pivotably at each of their upper ends to the first panel portion (2a) and the other two gas pressure springs (11) at each of their upper ends being coupled pivotably to the second panel portion (2b), and wherein the four gas pressure springs (11) at their lower ends are each mounted pivotably on the gearing bearer (7).
2. Table according to claim 1, characterised in that the first bar (6a) and the second bar (6b) are arranged in such a way that the panel portions (2a, 2b) cross one another when pivoting from the operating position into the stowing position.
3. Table according to claim 2, characterised in that the first bar (6a) and the second bar (6b) are arranged in such a way that during the entire pivoting movement of the panel portions (2a, 2b) from the operating position into the stowing position they cross one another and preferably cross one another in the operating position and in the stowing position.
4. Table according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first axis (21) and the second axis (22) are arranged remote from one another and/or in that the fifth axis (25) and the sixth axis (26) are arranged remote from one another.
5. Table according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that on the panel portions (2a, 2b) pivoting between the operating position and the stowing position the first (21), sixth (26) and fourth (24) axis are able to assume a position in which the first (21), sixth (26) and fourth (24) axis are arranged on a first plane (31) and in that on the panel portions (2a, 2b) pivoting between the operating position and the stowing position the second (22), fifth (25) and third (23) axis are able to assume a position in which the second (22), fifth (25) and third (23) axis are arranged on a second plane (32).
6. Table according to claim 5, characterised in that the first plane (31) and the second plane (32) are inclined towards one another.
7. Table according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first (21), second (22), third (23), fourth (24), fifth (25) and sixth (26) axis are substantially parallel to one another.
8. Table according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the gearing (8) is form-fitting in design and couples the pivoting movements of the first (6a) and second (6b) bar with one another relative to the gearing bearer (7), particularly by means of teeth (9).
9. Table according to claim 8, characterised in that the gearing (8) exhibits two interlocking gearwheel segments (10a, 10b), a first (10a) of the gearwheel segments mounted rotatably around the fifth axis (25) and a second (10b) of the gearwheel segments mounted rotatably around the sixth axis (26) on the gearing bearer (7), and in that an end portion of the first bar (6a) is fixed to the first gearwheel segment (10a) and an end portion of the second bar (6b) is fixed to the second gearwheel segment (10b) .
10. Table according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first (4a) and the second (4b) prop each have a base portion (13a, 13b) and in that the respective base portion (13a, 13b) is provided with one or more rollers (12) designed for bearing the table (1) in a manner displaceable by rolling.
11. Table according to claim 10, characterised in that the rollers (12) are each coupled pivotably around a pivoting axis (33) to the base portion (13a, 13b) of the associated prop (4a, 4b), the pivoting axes (33) of the rollers (12) provided on the first prop (4a) and the second prop (4b) being oriented substantially parallel to one another in the operating position and in the stowing position.
12. Table according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the props (4a, 4b) are each provided with two legs (15), each of which has a first bend (16) and the legs (15) of any one prop (4a, 4b) are interconnected by means of a crossbar (18) in the region of the first bend (16), and in that the bar (6a, 6b) coupled to the prop (4a, 4b) is mounted pivotably on the crossbar (18).
13. Table according to claim 12, characterised furthermore in that the legs (15) each have a second bend (17) which is arranged adjacent to a top portion (14a, 14b) of the prop (4a, 4b), said top portion (14a, 14b) being provided for coupling the prop (4a, 4b) pivotably to the associated panel portion (2a, 2b).
14. Table according to any one of claims 12 or 13, characterised in that the legs (15) are manufactured of a straight tubular semi-product (34), the bends (16, 17) being manufactured by the machining of cut-outs (35) in the tubular semi-product (34), in particular by means of laser machining, subsequent bending of the remaining material regions adjacent to the cut-outs (35) and subsequent welding of at least portions (36) of the edges (37) of the respective cut-out (35).

Images