EP2522253B1 - Table - Google Patents

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a table.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Although the present invention may find application in the context of table furniture of various kinds, such as tables for conference rooms, offices, seminar rooms or the like, but also in the context of tables for the private household, the present invention and the underlying problem will be below with reference to a large conference table explained in more detail.

In order to accommodate a large amount of papers, drawings or other work materials and to facilitate meetings with a large number of people to sit at that table, conference tables are often equipped with relatively large table tops. In order to support the table top against the floor, such a table then usually requires a correspondingly stable base.

Occasionally, such a conference table in the place where it is usually placed, bothers because of its size, for example, because the associated conference room is to be used in other ways. In this case, there is a desire to create such a large-scale conference table as effortlessly and without much effort set aside and to save space. In addition, there is often the need, the conference table for For example, it is easy to spend meetings from one room to another in different rooms.

In the US 4,133,271 A a foldable table is described whose tabletop parts can be folded from a vertical storage position to a horizontal use position. The US 4,133,271 A describes a lockable hinge for this table. In an intermediate position of the table when unfolding the table, a projection of a hinge plate comes into contact with a locking rod, whereby the table does not unfold further in its horizontal position unless a handle is moved.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, the present invention seeks to provide an improved table that can be quickly and easily transferred from a use state in a space-saving state and can be converted back to its usable state in an equally effortless manner. For an operator, no additional sources of danger should arise here. Especially with regard to large tables should be achieved that the table can be used safely and does not unexpectedly move.

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

Accordingly, a table with two plate parts is provided, wherein the two plate parts are pivotable relative to each other from a stowage position to a use position. In the use position, the two plate parts are arranged substantially in a first plane, and edge portions of both plate parts are facing each other in the utilization situation. In addition, the plate parts are pivotally coupled to a connecting member about an axis. It is a Verriegelungseiririchtung provided by means of which the plate parts are locked in the use position with the connecting member. The locking device is in this case designed such that the locking device causes a locking of at least one of the plate parts on the connecting member during pivoting of the plate parts from their storage position in their use position. This latching takes place when the plate parts are in a pre-locking position. After snapping, the plate parts are prevented from moving back into the stowage position.

The idea of the present invention is to provide a table which is foldable by pivoting two plate parts to be brought from a usable state into a space-saving stowed state. In the usable state of the table, the two plate parts occupy a utilization position, in which the plate parts are arranged substantially in one plane. This allows the plate parts form a table top for the table. The pivotability of the plate members is achieved by a pivotable coupling of the plate members with a connecting member. In the use situation of the plate parts to ensure that the plate parts do not unexpectedly move out of the use situation, or in other words that the table does not fold up unexpectedly by itself. This can be avoided by a locking device, which makes it possible to lock the plate parts in the use position with the connecting member. To make the pivoting of the plate parts of the stowage in the use situation even safer and easier the locking device is formed in such a way that at least one of the plate parts engages on pivoting of the plate parts from the stowage position in the utilization position in a Vorverriegelungslage the plate members to the connecting member. This snapping prevents the plate parts from moving back into the stowage position. Thus, for example, it can be prevented that the table folds in the direction of its stowed state, if one of the plate parts unintentionally, for example by putting a person on this, is acted upon with a force before the plate parts are locked in the use position with the connecting member. Even in a case in which the locking of the plate parts is accidentally forgotten, a safe use of the table after locking in the Vorverriegelungslage is possible. It is thus created by the invention, a table that can be stowed to save space and even then is safe to operate when it is designed over a large area.

According to the invention, the table further comprises an energy store, which is coupled to the plate parts and the connecting component in such a way that the energy store absorbs energy when pivoting the plate parts from the storage position into the utilization position. In this way, a control and a damping of the pivoting movement of the plate members can be achieved by the stowage in the utilization position. As a result, the table according to the invention can be brought into its use state in a safe and gentle manner.

Advantageous embodiments and further developments emerge from the further subclaims. According to one embodiment of the table according to the invention, the locking device is designed such that it causes a latching of both plate parts on the connecting member during pivoting of the plate parts from the stowage position in the utilization position in the Vorverriegelungslage. Thus, advantageously, both plate parts are reliably prevented from moving back toward the stowage position.

In one embodiment of the invention, a first of the plate parts is pivotally coupled to the connecting member about a first axis. In addition, in this embodiment, a second of the plate parts is pivotally coupled to the connecting member about a second axis. The first axis in this case runs essentially parallel to the first plate part and the second axis runs essentially parallel to the second plate part. This makes it possible, for example, the plate parts from a utilization position in which the plate parts preferably extend substantially parallel to a floor on which the table is placed, in a respect to the Bodens essentially vertical, upright stowage to convict. In the stowage of the plate parts, the table is then very little space, which saves installation space. Especially with large conference tables, this is advantageous.

In a further embodiment, the first axis is substantially parallel to the second axis. Preferably, the first axis and the second axis are also substantially parallel to the edge portions of both plate parts, which face each other in the utilization position. As a result, for example, the shortest possible gap between the edge portions of the two plate parts can be achieved. In addition, the table is particularly space-saving in this embodiment, when the plate parts are in the stowed position.

In a preferred embodiment of the inventive table, the locking device is designed such that the pre-locking position is reached before the plate parts have reached the utilization position. It can thereby be achieved that when unfolding the table, the Vorverriegelungslage is taken reliably by the plate members. It can be further avoided in this way that the plate parts are present at the connecting member before they reach the Vorverriegelungslage.

According to a further embodiment, the locking device is further designed such that the plate parts are inclined relative to each other in the Vorverriegelungslage. An operator who brings about pivoting of the plate parts from the stowed position to the utilization position can easily see with a naked eye in a table according to this embodiment Detect whether the plate parts are in the Vorverriegelungslage or in the use position. As a result, it becomes apparent to the operator person if the plate parts, of which at least one is already engaged on the connecting component in the pre-locking position, are not yet locked in the utilization position. The operator person is therefore reminded by the visible inclination of the plate parts that the plate parts should still be locked. This further increases the safety for the operator when using the table according to the invention.

In a further improvement of the invention it is provided that the locking device has at least one actuating element. According to this improvement, the locking device is designed such that the actuating element can be brought into a latching position and into a locking position. In this case, after the latching on the connecting component by moving the actuating element from the latching position into the locking position, a transfer of the plate parts from the prelocking position into the utilization position can be effected. At the same time, the locking of the plate parts in the utilization position can be effected by this movement of the actuating element. In this way, the operator person can also recognize on the basis of the position of the actuating element, whether the plate parts are locked in the use position or not.

According to a further development of the locking device is designed such that the actuating element is further brought into a release position. In this case, by locking the actuating element from the locking position via the latching position into the release position, the locking of the plate parts can be released. This can make the table be brought by swiveling the plate parts of the utilization position in the stowage again in a space-saving stowage condition.

In a further embodiment of the table according to the invention, the locking device is furthermore designed in such a way that the engagement of the at least one or both plate parts on the connecting component can be achieved by moving the actuating element from the latching position to the release position. As a result, the plate parts can also be moved from the Vorverriegelungslage back into the stowage position.

In a further development of the invention, a plurality of actuating elements are provided. Preferably, the actuators are adjacent to the edge portions of both plate members which face each other in the use position. Particularly preferably, two actuating elements are provided on each of the two plate parts, which are arranged on different sides of the respective plate part, whereby the locking of the plate parts and the release of the lock can be made in a more comfortable way.

In one embodiment of the invention, the locking device has a hook. The hook is in this case movably mounted on one of the plate parts. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the connecting component has a projection, which is arranged and designed such that the hook can be brought into positive engagement with the projection. A positive engagement of a hook in a projection causes a particularly reliable engagement and locking of the plate members on the connecting member.

According to an improvement, the hook is mounted such that the hook is deflectable by a distance which is sufficient to bring the hook during pivoting of the plate members in the Vorverriegelungslage with the projection into engagement when the actuating element is in the latched position. In this case, the latching takes place on the connecting component advantageously automatically by the hook engages behind the projection, without any further action of the operator person would be required.

In a further development of the invention, the locking device has a shaft mounted on the one of the plate parts, wherein an eccentric is rotatably connected to the shaft and a portion of the hook surrounds the eccentric at least partially. The eccentric makes it possible, by turning the shaft, to pull the hook against the plate part, thereby causing the pivoting from the pre-locking position into the utilization position and the locking in the utilization position.

In a further embodiment, the hook has an arcuate recess facing the eccentric. A peripheral surface of the eccentric is in this case provided with a projection which is designed such that it engages in the arcuate recess. When moving the actuating element from the latching position into the locking position, in this case the elevation passes through the arcuate recess from a first end surface to a second end surface of the arcuate recess. As a result, the eccentric with respect to the hook has two defined end positions. Furthermore, the fact that the elevation preferably comes into abutment in the latching position on the first end face, by the action of the survey on the first end face of the arcuate Recess of the hook in a further rotation of the eccentric, preferably when moving the actuating element of the latched position in the release position, are deflected in such a way that the hook and the projection are disengaged.

In an advantageous embodiment, the shaft is rotatably connected to the actuating element. The actuating element may in this case preferably be designed as a pivotable button. In this way, by pivoting the actuating element between the latching position and the locking position, between the latching position and the release position or vice versa, a rotational movement of the shaft and thus a rotational movement of the eccentric can be achieved.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the locking device further comprises a rotatably connected to the shaft, non-circular cam. The cam is arranged on the shaft in such a way that, in the latching position, the cam is in contact with a wall element fixedly connected to the one of the plate parts. The cam can thereby form a stop for the rotational movement of the shaft.

In a further preferred development, the cam and the actuating element are arranged on the shaft in such a way that the actuating element in the locking position is substantially parallel to the one of the plate parts, and that the actuating element in the latched position substantially perpendicular to the one of the plate parts is aligned. For an operator, this is even more clearly recognizable by the vertical orientation of the actuator when the plate members are not yet locked in the use position. In addition, this configuration be advantageous if actuators are provided on each of the plate parts. In this case, it may be appropriate to arrange their release positions in such a way that two operating elements, which are arranged on different plate parts and preferably in the region of the edge portions of the plate parts, can be compressed by the operator with one hand toward each other to the Loosen the plate parts. In order to bring the table from the usable state to the stowed state, so in this way configured actuators can first be brought out of their locking position with one hand one by one, or with both hands at the same time, in the respective latching position. In the latching position, the plate parts are preferably still engaged on the connecting component. Only the transfer of the actuators in the release position allows the back swinging the plate parts in the stowage position. The described compression of the actuators to release advantageously allows substantially simultaneous release of both plate members. The fact that the release can be done with one hand, the operator also has the other hand free.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, a leg spring is provided, which is arranged and supported such that the leg spring is tensioned when the shaft is rotated by a deflection of the actuating element out of the engaged position. This causes the actuating element, if it is not in the locking position, is acted upon by a force which it spends in the engaged position. In this way it can be achieved that in the pivoting of the plate parts of the stowed position in the utilization position when reaching the Pre-locking always reliable engagement takes place on the connecting member, whereby the security in the use of the table is further improved.

In a further development, the energy store is arranged and configured such that the plate parts between the stowage position and the use position have an equilibrium position in which the edge portions of the plate parts are spaced apart to avoid pinching a finger of an operator, and that the application of an additional Force on at least one of the plate parts is required to transfer the plate parts from the equilibrium position in the utilization position. In this case, the additional force is preferably applied manually by the operator, the additional force to be applied being set in such a way that the operator can accomplish this without great effort. This can prevent unintentional jamming of the fingers between the edge portions of the plate members. The operation of the table is even safer, since the movement of the plate parts from the equilibrium position in the utilization situation in this development of the invention must be brought about specifically.

In a further embodiment, the energy store has at least one gas spring, wherein a first end of the gas spring is coupled to one of the plate parts and a second end of the gas spring is coupled to the connecting member. Such gas springs have a small footprint, allowing them to be placed on the table to save space, without disturbing. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the force caused by the gas pressure springs on the plate parts and the connecting member is precisely adjustable. As a result, the equilibrium position can advantageously be set exactly.

In one embodiment of the invention, a first support and a second support for supporting the table against the ground is provided. Here, the first support is pivotally coupled to a first of the two plate members, while the second support is pivotally coupled to a second of the plate members.

In a further improvement of the inventive table, the connecting member is formed as a transmission carrier. Further, in this improvement, a first rod and a second rod are provided, wherein the first rod is pivotally coupled to the first support and the second rod is pivotally coupled to the second support. In addition, the first and the second rod are pivotally coupled to the transmission component designed as a transmission carrier. Pivoting movements of the first rod and the second rod with respect to the gear carrier are in this case by a arranged on the gear carrier gear, which preferably acts positively, coupled to each other. This allows a movement of the first support with respect to the first plate member are synchronized with a movement of the second support relative to the second plate member during the pivoting of the plate members from the stowage position to the utilization position. Deformations of the plate parts and the supports to each other can be avoided.

According to a further development, the first rod and the second rod cross each other during the pivoting of the plate parts, preferably during the entire pivoting operation of the stowage position in the utilization position. Particularly preferably, the rods also intersect each other in the stowage position and in the utilization position. Due to the crosswise arrangement of the rods, an advantageous dead center situation of the plate parts, the rods, the supports and the gear carrier can be achieved with each other. Preferably, this dead center situation is achieved when the plate parts are between the equilibrium position and the stowage position. This can be achieved with advantage that the plate parts do not unintentionally move out of the stowage automatically, without the need for a separate locking device for locking the plate parts in the stowage is necessary.

The above embodiments and developments can, if appropriate, combine with each other as desired. Further possible further developments, implementations and embodiments 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. 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

Fig. 1

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

Fig. 2

den Tisch der Fig. 1 in einer Stirnansicht;

Fig. 3

den Tisch in dem Zustand der Fig.1, wobei ein Teil eines Verbindungsbauteils entfernt wurde und ein Getriebe sichtbar ist;

Fig. 4

ein Detail A, wie in Fig. 3 bezeichnet, wobei auch eine Vorverriegelungslage der Plattenteile schematisch eingezeichnet ist, sowie ein weiter vergrößertes Detail XX;

Fig. 5

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

Fig. 6

den Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel während des Verschwenkens der Plattenteile aus einer Verstaulage in die Nutzungslage, kurz vor der Beendigung des Verschwenkvorgangs;

Fig. 7

ein Detail B, wie in Fig. 6 bezeichnet;

Fig. 8

den Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung, während des Verschwenkens der Plattenteile aus der Verstaulage in die Nutzungslage, in einem Zustand vor dem Zustand der Fig. 6;

Fig. 9

ein Detail C, wie in Fig. 8 bezeichnet;

Fig. 10

den Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei sich die Plattenteile in der Verstaulage befinden, und wobei ein Teil des Verbindungsbauteils entfernt ist und das Getriebe sichtbar ist;

Fig. 11

ein Detail D, wie in Fig. 10 bezeichnet;

Fig. 12

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

Fig. 13

den Tisch gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel in dem Verstauzustand der Fig. 10, wobei das Verbindungsbauteil vollständig dargestellt ist und die Gasdruckfedern gezeigt sind;

Fig. 14

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

Fig. 15

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

Fig. 16

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

Fig. 17

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

Fig. 18

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Bereiches des Tisches, in dem die Plattenteile in der Nutzungslage aneinandergrenzen, wobei die Plattenteile abgenommen sind und Traversen, Gehäuse und eine Verriegelungseinrichtung erkennbar sind;

Fig. 19

eine perspektivische Ansicht des Bereichs des Tisches, in dem die Plattenteile in der Nutzungslage aneinandergrenzen, bei abgenommenen Plattenteilen, wobei zusätzlich Betätigungselemente für die Verriegelungseinrichtung sichtbar sind;

Fig. 20

der in den Fig. 18 und 19 gezeigte Bereich des Tisches in einer weiteren perspektivischen Ansicht;

Fig. 21

eine Vergrößerung des in Fig. 20 gezeigten Bereiches des Tisches, in einer Draufsicht;

Fig. 22

ein Detail der Verriegelungseinrichtung, in einer perspektivischen Ansicht;

Fig. 23

ein weiteres Detail der Verriegelungseinrichtung, perspektivisch entlang eines Spalts zwischen den in der Nutzungslage befindlichen Plattenteilen betrachtet;

Fig. 24

ein weiteres Detail der Verriegelungseinrichtung, in einer perspektivischen Ansicht, in einer Stellung, in der sich ein zugeordnetes Betätigungselement in einer Einraststellung befindet;

Fig. 25

das Detail der Fig. 24 in einem Zustand, in dem sich das zugeordnete Betätigungselement in einer Verriegelungsstellung befindet;

Fig. 26

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Hakens für die Verriegelungseinrichtung;

Fig. 27

eine Seitenansicht des Hakens der Fig. 26, sowie ein Schnitt A'-A' durch den Haken;

Fig. 28

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Abschnitts eines Plattenteils und eines Abschnitts des Verbindungsbauteils, wobei sich das Plattenteil in der Verstaulage befindet;

Fig. 29

ein zweiteiliger Exzenter für die Verriegelungseinrichtung, in einer perspektivischen Ansicht;

Fig. 30

der zweiteilige Exzenter der Fig. 29 in einer Seitenansicht, in einer Draufsicht, sowie in Stirnansichten A"-A"und B"-B";

Fig. 31

ein Gegenlager für die Verriegelungseinrichtung, in einer perspektivischen Ansicht;

Fig. 32

das Gegenlager der Fig. 31, in einer Draufsicht, in einem Schnitt A"'-A"', in einem Schnitt B"'-B"' sowie in einer Seitenansicht F.

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

Fig. 1

a table according to an embodiment of the invention, in a side view, wherein the plate parts are in a 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 connecting member has been removed and a gear is visible;

Fig. 4

a detail A, as in Fig. 3 denotes, wherein a Vorverriegelungslage the plate members is shown schematically, and a further enlarged detail XX;

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 a stowage position in the utilization position, shortly before the completion of the pivoting operation;

Fig. 7

a detail B, as in Fig. 6 designated;

Fig. 8

the table according to the embodiment of the invention, during the pivoting of the plate parts from the stowage position in the utilization position, in a state before the state of Fig. 6 ;

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 connecting member is removed and the transmission is visible;

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 in the stowed state of Fig. 10 wherein the connecting member is fully illustrated 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 perspective view of an area of the table, in which the plate parts adjoin in the utilization position, wherein the plate parts are removed and trusses, housing and a locking device can be seen;

Fig. 19

a perspective view of the area of the table in which the plate parts adjoin in the utilization position, with removed plate parts, in addition actuators for the locking device are visible;

Fig. 20

in the Fig. 18 and 19 shown area of the table in a further perspective view;

Fig. 21

an enlargement of the in Fig. 20 shown area of the table, in a plan view;

Fig. 22

a detail of the locking device, in a perspective view;

Fig. 23

a further detail of the locking device, viewed in perspective along a gap between the located in the use position plate parts;

Fig. 24

a further detail of the locking device, in a perspective view, in a position in which an associated actuating element is in a latched position;

Fig. 25

the detail of Fig. 24 in a state where the associated actuator is in a locked position;

Fig. 26

a perspective view of a hook for the locking device;

Fig. 27

a side view of the hook of the Fig. 26 , as well as a section A'-A 'through the hook;

Fig. 28

a perspective view of a portion of a plate member and a portion of the connecting member, wherein the plate member is located in the storage position;

Fig. 29

a two-part eccentric for the locking device, in a perspective view;

Fig. 30

the two-part eccentric of Fig. 29 in a side view, in a plan view, as well as in end views A "-A" and B "-B";

Fig. 31

an abutment for the locking device, in a perspective view;

Fig. 32

the counter bearing of Fig. 31 in a plan view, in a section A "'- A"', in a section B "'- B"' and in a side view F.

The accompanying drawings are intended to provide further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain 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 drawings, identical, functionally identical and equivalent elements, features and components, unless otherwise stated, each provided with the same reference numerals.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of the table in a side view. The table 1 has a first plate part 2 a and a second plate part 2 b, which in the in Fig. 1 shown state of the table 1 are in a utilization position 2a "', 2b"' are. In the utilization position 2a "', 2b"', the plate parts 2a and 2b are arranged substantially in a first plane E1, which, like Fig. 1 shows, substantially parallel to a bottom 5 on which the table is supported runs.

As Fig. 1 also shows, run on lower sides of each of the plate parts 2a and 2b support members or trusses 3, which may be formed, for example, as metal profiles. These serve to stiffen and support the plate parts 2a and 2b. The support of the table 1 against the bottom 5 serve a first support 4a and a second support 4b. The supports 4a and 4b each have legs 15, and at the bottom 5 facing ends of the supports 4a and 4b rollers 12 are provided. By means of the rollers 12, the table 1 on the floor 5 is slidably movable. Preferably, the rollers 12 are pivotally connected to the supports 4a and 4b, whereby the table 1 is slidable in several directions and can be steered during the displacement.

In the in Fig. 1 In the state shown in which the plate parts 2a and 2b are respectively disposed in their utilization position 2a '' and 2b '', the plate parts 2a, 2b adjoin one another with a narrow gap 20.

In the area of the undersides of the plate parts 2 a and 2 b, a connecting component 7 is arranged, wherein both the first plate part 2 a and the second plate part 2 b are pivotably coupled to the connecting component 7. Furthermore, the show Figures 1 and 2 in that gas pressure springs 11 are provided which, as will be described in more detail, are likewise pivotably coupled to the plate parts 2a and 2b and to the connection component 7. The gas springs 11 form an energy storage, the purpose of which will also be described in detail.

In the Fig. 3 the table 1 according to the embodiment of the invention is again shown in the state in which the plate parts 2a, 2b in the use position 2a "', 2b"' are. The connecting member 7 is formed at the table 1 as a gear carrier with two gear carrier parts 7 a and 7 b, wherein in Fig. 3 only a second of the gear carrier parts 7b is shown. Herein it can be seen that the connecting member 7 carries a transmission 8 as a transmission carrier and forms a transmission housing for this. The transmission 8 has two gear segments 10a and 10b, as the enlargement of Fig. 4 even more clearly shows, wherein the gear segments 10a, 10b are engaged with each other by their teeth 9.

The plate parts 2 a and 2 b of the table 1 are designed to be pivotable. The first plate part 2a is pivotally coupled to the connecting member 7 about a first axis 21, while the second plate part 2b is pivotally coupled to the connecting member 7 about a second axis 22. The first axis 21 is substantially parallel to the first plate portion 2a, the second axis 22 is substantially parallel to the second plate portion 2b, and the two axes 21 and 22 extend in the embodiment shown also substantially parallel to each other.

In addition, a first rod 6a and a second rod 6b are provided. One end of the first rod 6a is fixedly connected to the first gear segment 10a, while one end of the second rod 6b is fixedly connected to the second gear segment 10b. The first rod 6a is pivotally coupled to the first support 4a about a third axis 23, and the second rod 6b is pivotally coupled about a fourth axis 24 to the second support 4b. The two gear segments 10a and 10b are pivotally mounted about axes 25 and 26 on the connecting member 7 designed as a gear carrier. Thereby, the first rod 6a is pivotally coupled to the connecting member 7 about a fifth axis 25, while the second rod 6b is pivotally coupled to the connecting member 7 about a sixth axis 26. Furthermore, that is first plate portion 2a is pivotally coupled to first support 4a about a seventh axis 27, while second plate portion 2b is pivotally coupled to second support 4b about an eighth axis 28. The axes 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 extend in the embodiment shown preferably substantially parallel to each other and substantially parallel to the bottom 5. In the Fig. 3 and 4 the axes 21 to 28 are shown projecting. The first axis 21 and the second axis 22 are relative to a plane of symmetry S, which is substantially perpendicular to the two plate parts 2a and 2b in the utilization position 2a "', 2b"' and in Fig. 3 also shown projecting, formed substantially symmetrical. Likewise, the third axis 23 and the fourth axis 24 are arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry S. Also, the fifth axis 25 and the sixth axis 26 are arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to S, and the seventh axis 27 and the eighth axis 28 are also arranged substantially symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry S.

The two plate parts 2 a and 2 b are thus relative to each other from in the FIGS. 1 to 3 shown utilization position 2a "', 2b"' in a stowage position 2a ", 2b" pivoted. A state of the table 1, in which the plate parts 2 a, 2 b are in their storage position 2 a ", 2 b", is in the 10 to 15 displayed. In the storage position 2a ", 2b", the plate parts 2a and 2b run essentially parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the bottom 5. In the in Fig. 10 illustrated state, the table 1 is thus folded up to save space and can be rolled by means of rollers 12 which are arranged on the supports 4a and 4b, for example in a conference or meeting room to a place where it should be stored and does not bother.

In order to use the table 1, the two plate parts 2a and 2b can be pivoted relative to one another out of the stowage position 2a ", 2b" back into the utilization position 2a "', 2b"'. To do this, pull or push an operator, as in Fig. 10 shown, preferably ends of the plate parts 2a and 2b in the direction of arrow 63a and 63b to the outside. As a result, the plate parts 2 a, 2 b pivot about the axes 21 and 22 with respect to the connecting member 7, as well as with respect to the supports 4 a and 4 b about the axes 27 and 28. The pivoting show the Fig. 8 and 6 , In this case, the first rod 6a and the second rod 6b also pivot about the third axis 23 and about the fourth axis 24 with respect to the first support 4a and the second support 4b, respectively.

In the state of Fig. 10 act on the components of the table 1 acting weight forces in such a way that even with a small deflection of the plate parts 2a and 2b from the stowage 2a ", 2b" the plate parts 2a, 2b return to the stowage position 2a ", 2b". In other words, a slight disturbance, a bumping or the like do not cause the table 1 unfolds unintentionally by itself.

The rods 6a and 6b cross each other in the use and in the storage position and during the entire pivoting operation of the plate parts 2a, 2b between the use and storage position. When pulling the plate parts 2a and 2b in the direction 63a, 63b is added to the in Fig. 8 time reached a state in which the first axis 21, the fourth axis 24 and the sixth axis 26 lie in a second plane E2. At the same time lie in this state, the second axis 22, the third axis 23 and the fifth axis 25 in one third plane E3, wherein the second plane E2 and the third plane E3 are inclined to each other at an acute angle α. The pivot axes take in the in Fig. 8 shown state a dead center. Are the plate parts 2a and 2b now starting from the state of Fig. 8 further pulled in the direction 63a and 63b to the outside, so the dead center is crossed over. Finally, the table 1 reaches the in Fig. 6 shown state. On the components acting weight forces in this state after passing the dead center situation no longer lead to a return of the plate parts 2a and 2b in the stowage position 2a ", 2b".

The Fig. 11 . 12 . 4 and 5 illustrate the pivotal coupling of the gas springs 11 with the connecting member 7 and the first plate member 2a and the second plate member 2b. Longitudinal axes of the gas springs 11 are denoted by the reference numeral 11a, pivotable attachment points of the gas springs 11 by the reference numeral 11b. When pivoting the plate parts 2a, 2b from the storage 2a ", 2b" towards the utilization position 2a "', 2b"', the gas springs 11 are shortened by compression by a piston is pressed into a cylinder, whereby the gas springs 11 as energy storage Absorb energy.

In the embodiment shown here, the gas springs 11 are arranged in the manner, and their spring force is chosen such that the two plate parts 2a and 2b after passing over the in Fig. 8 shown dead center position, between the dead center and the utilization position 2a "', 2b"', but preferably well before reaching the utilization position 2a "', 2b"' assume an equilibrium position in which a balance of forces between the forces acting on the components of the table 1 weight forces on the one hand and the applied by the gas springs 11 restoring forces on the other hand is present. Edge portions 13a and 13b of the plate parts 2a and 2b are like the Fig. 4 . 9 and 11 make clear in the utilization position 2a "', 2b"' facing each other. The edge sections 13a, 13b form an only slight gap 20 in the use position 2a "', 2b"', whereby the plate parts 2a, 2b form parts of a table top of the table 1 which is substantially continuous except for the gap 20. The fact that the first and second plate parts 2a and 2b assume an equilibrium position before reaching the utilization position 2a "', 2b" under the effect of the gas pressure springs 11 avoids the pivoting process from the storage position 2a ", 2b" into the utilization position 2a "', 2b"' takes place at high speed and an operator person can pinch his fingers between the edge portions 13a, 13b painfully. Instead, the appropriately configured gas springs 11 cause the operator in the equilibrium position, not shown in the figures, to deliberately apply from above a force K on one or both of the plate parts 2a, 2b to move the plate parts 2a and 2b from the equilibrium position into the one Utilization situation 2a "', 2b"', see also the FIGS. 4 and 6 , In the equilibrium position, the edge portions 13a, 13b spaced sufficiently far apart so as not to act as a nip. This avoids unintentional trapping.

When transferring the first and second plate parts 2a, 2b from the equilibrium position into the utilization position 2a '', 2b '', the plate parts 2a, 2b engage in a pre-locking position 2a ', 2b' on the connection component 7, such that the plate parts 2a, 2b after latching on a backward movement in the equilibrium position or in the storage 2a ", 2b" are prevented. For this purpose, a locking device 14 is provided. Achieving the Vorverriegelungslage 2a ', 2b', which is taken between the equilibrium position and the utilization position 2a "', 2b"', shows schematically Fig. 4 in dotted line. In the pre-locking position 2a ', 2b' the plate parts 2a and 2b are still slightly inclined by an angle β to each other. It is clearly visible and recognizable to an operator person that the plate parts 2a and 2b are located in the pre-locking position 2a ', 2b', thus not yet having reached the utilization position 2a "', 2b"'. Nevertheless, the plate parts 2a and 2b are already secured in the pre-locking position 2a ', 2b' against a backward movement in the direction of storage 2a ", 2b". This increases the safety when using the table 1 according to the invention, because even if an unkown user sits on one end of one of the in the Vorverriegelungslage 2a ', 2b' plate parts 2a, 2b, the table 1 can not fold unexpectedly.

As described, the locking means 14 is adapted to cause the latching of the plate parts 2a, 2b on the connecting member 7 in the pre-locking position 2a ', 2b'. Furthermore, the plate parts 2a, 2b in the utilization position 2a "', 2b"' can be locked to the connection component 7 by means of the locking device 14. This is in FIG. 4 a detail XX is shown, which in turn, in addition to the shown in solid lines use position 2a "', 2b"' also illustrates the configuration in the Vorverriegelungslage in dash-dotted line.

For an actuation of the locking device 14 by an operator, the locking device 14 has actuating elements 31 on, see Fig. 4 , In the embodiment shown, the actuators 31 are arranged in the region of the edge portions 13a and 13b of the plate parts 2a and 2b. Each of the plate parts 2a, 2b is provided with two actuators 31, of which in Fig. 4 only one is visible at a time.

The locking device 14 is designed such that each of the actuating elements 31 can be brought into a latching position 31 ', into a locking position 31 "and into a release position 31"'. In the storage position 2a ", 2b" and during the pivoting of the plate parts 2a and 2b from the storage 2a ", 2b" in the equilibrium position and then in the Vorverriegelungslage 2a ', 2b' take the actuators 31, for example, in the Fig. 5 . 9 and 11 drawn latching position 31 'a. In some of the figures, the actuation elements 31 are additionally drawn in their locking position 31 "during pivoting or in the stowage position 2a", 2b "Preferably, the actuation elements 31 are in the stowage position 2a", 2b "and in their latching position 31 during pivoting '.

The locking device 14 is thus configured such that when the plate parts 2 a and 2 b pivot to move to the pre-locking position 2 a ', 2 b' and finally reach the plate parts 2 a and 2 b engage the connecting member 7. Subsequently, by pivoting the actuating elements 31 from the latching position 31 'into the respective locking position 31 ", as in FIG Fig. 5 drawn, a locking of the plate parts 2a and 2b are effected on the connecting member 7. At the same time, the plate parts 2a, 2b by the pivoting of the actuators 31 of the latching position 31 'in the locking position 31' from the Vorverriegelungslage 2 a ', 2 b' in the utilization position 2 a '', 2 b "'pivots and edge regions of the

Plate parts 2a, 2b used to the connecting member 7.

Such as out Fig. 5 it can be seen, each of the actuators 31 may be formed as a pivotable button which is in the latched position 31 'substantially perpendicular to the respective plate member 2a and 2b, while the key in the locking position 31' substantially parallel to the respective plate member 2a, 2b runs.

In order to be able to fold the table and thereby bring the plate parts 2a, 2b back into the stowage position 2a ", 2b", the locking of the plate parts 2a, 2b on the connecting component 7 is released. This is done first by pivoting the actuators 31 from the locking position 31 'into the latching position 31', and a subsequent Weiterverschwenken in the release position 31 '', see Fig. 5 , As Fig. 5 shows, the actuators 31 are thereby preferably compressed from the latched position 31 'toward each other. If the actuation elements 31 are in the release position 31 "', then the two plate parts 2a and 2b can be pivoted out of the utilization position 2a"', 2b "'back into the equilibrium position and finally into the stowage position 2a", 2b ".

During the pivoting from the stowage position 2a ", 2b" into the utilization position 2a "', 2b"', the connection component 7 moves in the vertical direction in the direction of the arrow 62 in FIG Fig. 6 moves, the supports 4a and 4b move apart in the direction of arrows 61a and 61b. Conversely, the move Supports 4a and 4b in the transfer of the table from its use state in its stowed state in the direction of arrow 61a 'and 61b' toward each other, and the connecting member 7 rises in the direction 62 '. By the coupling of the rods 6a, 6b with the supports 4a, 4b and the connecting member 7 ensures that the plate members 2a, 2b and the supports 4a, 4b during pivoting, in the use position 2a "', 2b"' and in the Storage 2a ", 2b" occupy the desired position to each other. The movement processes on both sides of the table 1 are synchronized by means of the transmission 8. For this purpose, the gear 8 coupled by means of the teeth 9, the pivoting movements, which can perform the rods 6a and 6b with respect to the formed as a transmission carrier connecting member 7, to each other.

Now, the structure of the locking device 14 will be explained in more detail. The Fig. 16 and 17 show the structure of the table 1 and the locking device 14 in overview. Below each of the plate parts 2a and 2b, a housing 40 is provided adjacent to the respective edge section 13a or 13b. The housing 40 extends between the two trusses 3 below the respective plate member and is fixedly connected to the trusses 3 and the respective plate member. Through the housing 40 and the trusses 3, a shaft 32 extends, which is preferably designed as a polygonal shaft, for example, a hexagonal shaft. The shaft 32 is passed through the respective traverse 3 on both sides of the housing 40. At both ends of the shaft 32 is an actuating element 31 rotatably connected to the shaft 32 each. The shaft 32 is preferably rotatably mounted in the region of its ends on the trusses 3 and / or the housing 40.

Fig. 17 further shows that the locking device 14 has a hook 50. The hook 50 is also in the Fig. 4 (Detail XX), 9 and 11 recognizable. The connecting member 7 is provided with two projections 51. Each one of the projections 51 is arranged on the first transmission carrier part 7a or the second transmission carrier part 7b and, for example, formed integrally with the respective transmission carrier part. This is for example in Fig. 11 only one of the projections 51 visible. The hook 50 can be brought into positive engagement with the projection 51.

As the Fig. 17 makes clear, the hook 50 has a ring portion 50a, through which the shaft 32 is passed. With the shaft 32, a two-part eccentric 33 is rotatably connected, wherein on one side of this hook 50, a first eccentric part 33a and on the other side of the hook 50, a second eccentric part 33b are arranged on the shaft.

The eccentric 33 will now be described with reference to FIGS Fig. 29 and 30 described in more detail. Each of the eccentric portions 33a and 33b is formed with two mutually off-axis portions. A peripheral surface 34a or 34b of the larger portion of the respective eccentric 33a and 33b is provided with a protrusion 35a, 35b, which extends radially outwardly. The smaller portion of the respective eccentric 33a, 33b forms an extension 36a and 36b, which projects over the peripheral surface 34a and 34b, respectively, a piece. Through each of the eccentric portions 33a and 33b, a continuous hexagonal opening 39 extends.

In addition, the first eccentric 33a on an arcuate pin 37, which in shape and size with an arcuate Recess 38 of the second eccentric 33b corresponds and improves the rotationally fixed coupling of the eccentric 33a and 33b. Be in Fig. 17 As shown in detail E, the two eccentric portions 33a and 33b are pushed together along the shaft 32, then the ring portion 50a engages both a portion of the eccentric portion 33a and a portion of the eccentric portion 33b. The arcuate recess 38 and the arcuate pin 37 are then engaged with each other.

Like from the FIGS. 26 and 27 It can be seen, the ring portion 50 a of the hook 50 moreover two arcuate recesses 52 which face the eccentric 33 in the mounted state of the locking device, are open to the outside and each having a first end face 53 and a second end face 54. The section A'-A 'in Fig. 27 shows further that the hook 50 is formed substantially symmetrical, wherein on both sides of a plane of symmetry S1 each one of the arcuate recesses 52 is provided. The protrusions 35a, 35b engage in the respective arcuate recess 52 when the locking device 14 is assembled.

The Fig. 18 to 25 show the two housings 40, one of which is associated with one of the plate parts 2a and 2b (the plate parts 2a, 2b are not shown for clarity) and two shafts 32, the actuators 31, and the respective plate member associated hook 50th of which in the FIGS. 18 to 23 only the ring portion 50a is clearly visible. Each of the plate parts 2a, 2b is thus associated with a hook 50 which is movably mounted on the respective plate part 2a and 2b via an eccentric 33 and a shaft 32. The housing 40 has a lower side Opening through which the hook 50 can protrude, see Fig. 28 ,

By pivoting, for example, the actuating element 31 on the plate part 2a, the shaft 32 associated with the plate part 2a is rotated about its longitudinal axis. The rotatably connected to the shaft 32 eccentric 33 is thus also rotated, and the projections 35a, 35b pass through the arcuate recesses 52 of the hook 50. Is the actuator 31 in the latching position 31 ', then the elevations 35a and 35b are at the first End surfaces 53 of the associated arcuate recess 52 a. As a result, the hook 50 can be deflected by rotation of the ring section 50a about the eccentric 33 even without rotation of the shaft 32 by a distance sufficient for the hook 50 to move out of the equilibrium position into the pre-locking position 2a 'during pivoting of the plate sections 2a and 2b. 2b 'engages with the projection 51, as shown in detail XX of Fig. 4 shown. For this purpose, the hook 50 preferably has a shape that allows a deflection of the hook 50 by sliding on the projection 51 and a subsequent engaging behind thereof. The hook 50 can thus engage behind the projection 51 in the latching position 31 'of the actuating element 31 and thereby prevent the plate parts 2a, 2b from moving back in the direction of the storage position 2a ", 2b". If the actuating element 31 is now rotated into the locking position 31 "with the plate elements 2a, 2b in the pre-locking position 2a ', 2b', then the elevations 35a, 35b pass through the arcuate recesses 52 until they are at the second end surface 54 of the respective arcuate Recess 52 abut. By the corresponding rotation of the eccentric 33 thus the hook 50 is a bit far in the direction Z1, see FIG. 28 , pulled into the housing 40 and approaches thus to the associated plate part 2a and 2b. This results in a drawing of the respective plate part 2a, 2b near the edge portion 13a or 13b to the connecting member 7, whereby the plate member 2a, 2b about the first axis 21 and the second axis 22 is further veschwenkt. If the actuating element 31 has reached its locking position 31 ", then the hook 50 is used so far on the respective plate part that the plate parts 2a and 2b occupy the utilization position 2a"', 2b "', in which they are arranged in the first plane E1 ,

During the pivoting of the actuating elements 31 from the latching position 31 'into the locking position 31 ", the eccentric 33 can be attached to an in Fig. 31 support abutment 70 shown in perspective. This has bearing surfaces 72 which come into contact with the projections 36a and 36b. Further, passages 71 for the shaft 32 and a passage 73 for the hook 50 are provided. The in Fig. 29 shown eccentric 33 thus acts twice. On the one hand, the hook 50 is pulled by the projections 35a and 35b upon rotation of the shaft 32 by passing through the arcuate recesses 52 in the housing 40 on the other hand further retraction of the hook 50 is effected by the peripheral surfaces of the extensions 36a, 36b at Rotate the shaft 32 with the bearing surfaces 72 of the thrust bearing 70 come into contact, supported on the bearing surfaces 72 and 32 shorten the distance of the hook 50 to the respective plate member even further by slight elastic bending of the shaft. Such as Fig. 21 shows, the abutment 70 is held within the housing 40 by ribs 43 of the housing, which may be formed as a die-cast part.

Fig. 17 further shows that the locking device 14 further comprises a leg spring 56 and a non-circular cam 55. The non-circular cam 55 is also rotatably connected to the shaft 32 and for this purpose preferably also has a continuous hexagonal opening. The FIGS. 24 and 25 show that the cam 55 of the locking device 14 is preferably also disposed between ribs 43 of the associated housing 40. One leg of the leg spring 56 is supported on the cam 55, while the other leg is supported on the housing 40. The cam 55 and the leg spring 56 are arranged in such a way that upon rotation of the shaft 32 by a deflection of the actuating element 31 from the latched position 31 'out in the direction of one of the other two positions, ie the locking position 31 "or the release position 31st '', the leg spring 56 is stretched. The cam 55 and the shaft 32 are therefore acted upon by a restoring torque upon rotation of the actuating element 31 out of the latching position 31 '.

Fig. 25 shows the cam in a state in which the actuating element 31 is disposed in the locking position 31 ''. When the actuating element 31 is pivoted out of the locking position 31 'into the engaged position 31', the cam 55 assumes the position shown in FIG Fig. 24 shown position. In this case, the non-circular cam 55 bears against a wall element 41, for example a further rib of the housing 40. If the actuator 31 is further rotated in the release position 31 '', then the cam 55 is supported on the wall member 41, whereby the shaft 32 is elastically bent a little way, while the hook 50 by abutment of the projections 35 a and 35 b to the associated first end surfaces 53 of the arcuate recesses 52 in a direction Z2, see figure 28 , is deflected and comes with the projection 51 disengaged. As a result, the latching and locking of the plate parts 2 a, 2 b on the connection component 7 can be released again. Recesses 42 in ribs 43 of housing 40 for passage of shaft 32 are formed to provide enough space for easy deflection of shaft 32.

The restoring force applied by the leg spring 56 causes the actuating element 31 and thus also the shaft 32 after the release of the locking and locking of the plate parts 2a, 2b with the connecting component 7 to return to the latching position 31 '. When the table 1 is then brought into its stowed state, the shaft 32 and the actuator 31 on each of the plate members 2a and 2b are already in the latched position 31 ', and upon refolding of the table 1, the plate members 2a and 2b engage in turn on the connecting member 7. As a result, a comfortable and safe operation of the foldable table 1 is possible. After latching the plate parts 2a and 2b in the pre-locking position, the operating members 31 on both plate parts 2a and 2b are twisted by the operator to the locking position 31 ", whereby the hook 50 provided on each of the plate parts 2a, 2b becomes the respective plate part 2a, 2b, and the plate parts assume the utilization position 2a "', 2b"', whereby the dead center of the arrangement of the ring section 50a and the eccentric 33 is run over, whereby the action of the leg spring 56 is superimposed Shaft 32 does not automatically move out of the locking position 31 ".

Although the present invention has been fully described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto, but may be modified in a variety of ways. For example, it is not necessary to provide only one hook on each of the plate parts. There may also be several hooks, e.g. arranged side by side along the edge portions 13a, 13b are provided. Moreover, it is also not necessary to form the gear with a toothing, although this is advantageous. Instead, the transmission can also be designed as a chain transmission, a cable transmission or the like.

Moreover, the invention is not limited to use in office and conference furniture. Although the present invention is particularly advantageous there, it can equally be applied to table furniture for home, garden furniture or the like.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

table

2a

first plate part

2 B

second plate part

2a '

Pre-locking position (first plate part)

2 B'

Pre-locking position (second plate part)

2a "

Storage position (first plate part)

2 B"

Storage position (second plate part)

2a " '

Usage situation (first plate part)

2 B"'

Utilization situation (second plate part)

3

traverse

4a

first support

4b

second support

5

ground

6a

first pole

6b

second pole

7

connecting member

7a

first gear carrier part

7b

second transmission carrier part

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

roll

13a

Edge section (first plate part)

13b

Edge section (second plate part)

14

locking device

15

leg

16

first bend

17

second bend

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

actuator

31 '

Latching position (actuating element)

31 "

Locking position (actuating element)

31 " '

Release position (actuator)

32

wave

33

eccentric

33a

first eccentric part

33b

second eccentric part

34a

peripheral surface

34b

peripheral surface

35a

survey

35b

survey

36a

extension

36b

extension

37

arched pin

38

arcuate recess

39

Hexagonal opening

40

casing

41

Wall element (housing)

42

recess

43

Rib (housing)

50

hook

50a

Ring section (hook)

51

head Start

52

arcuate recess

53

first end surface (arcuate recess)

54

second end surface (arcuate recess)

55

cam

56

Leg spring

61a

Direction of movement (first support)

61b

Direction of movement (second support)

61a '

Direction of movement (first support)

61b '

Direction of movement (second support)

62

Direction of movement (connecting component)

62 '

Direction of movement (connecting component)

63a

drawing direction

63b

drawing direction

70

thrust bearing

71

execution

72

storage area

73

passage

E1

first floor

E2

second level

E3

Third level

K

force

S

plane of symmetry

S1

Symmetry plane (hook)

Z1

first direction of movement (hook)

Z2

second direction of movement (hook)

α

angle

β

angle

Claims (14)

1. Table (1),
   comprising two table top parts (2a, 2b) which are pivotable with respect to one another from a storage position (2a", 2b") into a use position (2a"', 2b"'), the table top parts (2a, 2b) being arranged substantially in a first plane (E1) in the use position (2a"', 2b"'), and edge portions (13a, 13b) of the two table top parts (2a, 2b) facing one another in the use position (2a"', 2b"');
   comprising a connection component (7) to which the table top parts (2a, 2b) are each coupled so as to be pivotable about an axis (21, 22); and
   comprising a locking device (14), by means of which the table top parts (2a, 2b) can be locked to the connection component (7) in the use position (2a"', 2b"');
   the locking device (14) being formed in such a way that it causes at least one of the table top parts (2a, 2b) to latch onto the connection component (7), in a pre-locking position (2a, 2b), when the table top parts (2a, 2b) are pivoted from the storage position (2a", 2b") into the use position (2a"', 2b"'), and in such a way that the table top parts (2a, 2b) are prevented from moving back into the storage position (2a" , 2b") after the latching,
   the table (1) further comprising an energy store (11), which is coupled to the table top parts (2a, 2b) and to the connection component (7) in such a way that the energy store (11) absorbs energy when the table top parts
   (2a, 2b) are pivoted from the storage position (2a", 2b") into the use position (2a"', 2b"').
2. Table according to claim 1,
   characterised in that a first (2a) of the table top parts is coupled to the connection component (7) so as to be pivotable about a first axis (21) and a second (2b) of the table top parts is coupled to the connection component (7) so as to be pivotable about a second axis (22), the first axis (21) extending substantially parallel to the first table top part (2a) and the second axis (22) extending substantially parallel to the second table top part (2b).
3. Table according to either claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the locking device (14) is formed in such a way that the pre-locking position (2a', 2b') can be reached before the table top parts (2a, 2b) have reached the use position (2a"', 2b"').
4. Table according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the locking device (14) is formed in such a way that the table top parts (2a, 2b) are at an inclination to one another in the pre-locking position (2a', 2b').
5. Table according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the locking device (14) comprises at least one actuation element (31), and in that the locking device (14) is formed in such a way that the actuation element (31) can be brought into a latching position (31') and into a locking position (31"), it being possible, after the latching, to transfer the table top parts (2a, 2b) from the pre-locking position (2a', 2b') to the use position (2a"', 2b"') and to lock the table top parts (2a, 2b) in the use position (2a"', 2b"') by moving the actuation element (31) from the latching position (31') into the locking position (31").
6. Table according to claim 5,
   characterised in that the locking device (14) is formed in such a way that the actuation element (31) can further be brought into a release position (31"'), it being possible to release the locking of the table top parts (2a, 2b) by moving the actuation element (31) from the locking position (31") through the latching position (31') into the release position (31"').
7. Table according to either claim 5 o claim 6, characterised in that the locking device (14) comprises a hook (50) which is movably mounted on one of the table top parts (2a, 2b), and in that the connection component (7) comprises a projection (51) which is arranged and formed in such a way that the hook (50) can be brought into positive engagement with the projection (51).
8. Table according to claim 7,
   characterised in that the hook (50) is mounted in such a way that when the actuation element (31) is located in the latching position (31') the hook (50) can be deflected through a sufficient distance so as to bring the hook (50) into engagement with the projection (51) when the table top parts (2a, 2b) pivot into the pre-locking position (2a', 2b').
9. Table according to either claim 7 or claim 8, characterised in that the locking device (14) comprises a shaft (32) mounted on one of the table top parts (2a, 2b), a cam (33) being rotationally engaged with the shaft (32) and a portion (50a) of the hook (50) engaging around the cam (33) at least in part.
10. Table according to claim 9,
    characterised in that the hook (50) comprises an arc-shaped recess (52) facing the cam (33), and in that a peripheral face (34a, 34b) of the cam (33) is provided with an elevation (35a, 35b) which is formed so as to engage in the arc-shaped recess (52), the elevation (35a, 35b) passing through the arc-shaped recess (52) from a first end face (53) to a second end face (54) of the arc-shaped recess (52) when the actuation element (31) moves from the latching position (31') into the locking position (31").
11. Table according to either claim 9 or claim 10, characterised in that the shaft (32) is rotationally engaged with the actuation element (31), the actuation element (31) preferably being in the form of a pivotable button.
12. Table according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterised in that the locking device (14) further comprises a non-round lobe (55) which is rotationally engaged with the shaft (32) and which is arranged on the shaft (32) in such a way that, in the latching position (31'), the lobe (55) is applied to a wall element (41) rigidly connected to one of the table top parts (2a, 2b).
13. Table according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterised in that a leg spring (56) is provided which is arranged and braced in such a way that the leg spring (56) is tensioned when the shaft (32) is twisted by a deflection of the actuation element (31) out of the latching position (31').
14. Table according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the energy store (11) is arranged and formed in such a way that, between the storage position (2a", 2b") and the use position (2a"', 2b"'), the table top parts (2a, 2b) have an equilibrium position in which the edge portions (13a, 13b) of the table top parts (2a, 2b) are at a distance from one another so as to prevent an operator's finger from being trapped, and in that it is necessary to apply an additional force (K) to at least one of the table top parts (2a, 2b) so as to transfer the table top parts (2a, 2b) from the equilibrium position into the use position (2a,"', 2b"').

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