WO2008151002A1

WO2008151002A1 - Table having pivoting communication modules

Info

Publication number: WO2008151002A1
Application number: PCT/US2008/065299
Authority: WO
Inventors: J. Wade Beam; Lejla Husetovic
Original assignee: Fci, Inc.
Priority date: 2007-05-30
Filing date: 2008-05-30
Publication date: 2008-12-11
Also published as: US20080295743A1

Abstract

A table that incorporates a plurality of pivoting communication apparatuses and a lift device is provided. An opening in the tabletop is configured to pivotally accommodate the plurality of communication apparatuses. The table includes at least one supporting member or leg, and a tabletop supported by the leg. The lift device is housed in an interior portion of the body of the table and at least partially supports each of the communication apparatuses. The lift device is movable between a lowered position and a raised position, and is slidably coupled to each of the communication apparatuses. The movement of the lift device between the raised and lowered positions causes an edge of the lift device to slide along a cam surface of the communication apparatuses, and thus cause the communication apparatuses to pivot with respect to the tabletop.

Description

TITLE OF THE INVENTION TABLE HAVING PIVOTING COMMUNICATION MODULES

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a communication system used for audio and visual communications. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to audio and visual communication systems for use in conducting meetings, teleconferences, and the like.

[0002] Generally, conference tables are used concurrently by multiple persons as a gathering place for information exchange. The tables are typically designed to support writing pads and utensils necessary to facilitate the exchange of information and, in most cases, are designed to support electronic devices to communicate information more efficiently. These electronic devices may include, for example, telephones, computers, monitors, keyboards, speakers and various audio devices, word processors and play-back devices, as well as the wirings and connectors associated therewith.

[0003] Because modern business meetings typically require the use of several different modes of electronic communication, meetings where multiple electronic devices are required can be problematic because the devices and wirings occupy a large portion of the table. Consequently, available work space for meeting participants is reduced and, therefore, overall meeting efficiency is reduced.

[0004] Moreover, the presence of multiple electronic devices including the wirings and connectors associated therewith, can detract from the overall aesthetic appearance of a workspace. More specifically, increased amounts of clutter on conference tables during meetings can not only decrease communication efficiency but can also create a less aesthetically pleasing environment, which detracts from the efficiency of the meeting.

SUMMARY

[0005] In several embodiments described below, a table is provided that converts between at least two physical configurations. One configuration is that of a standard planar conference table. In this configuration, the entire surface of the table can be used as a standard work surface. In a second configuration, a plurality of communication modules, such as computing workstations, are pivoted up from an interior portion of the table for use. In this configuration, although a portion of the table is sacrificed as general work space, an increased capacity for information transfer and digital communication is achieved. In these embodiments, at least one lift device is housed within the table and causes the plurality of the communication modules to pivot between positions associated with the first physical configuration and the second physical configuration.

[0006] In one embodiment, a table is provided that includes several storable communication devices. The table includes a body having an interior space. At least one leg or other supporting member is coupled to the body, and a tabletop is provided that is supported by the legs. The tabletop includes an opening having at least one interior edge. A plurality of communication apparatuses are pivotally coupled to the interior edge of the tabletop. A lifting device is provided and is housed in the interior space of the body. The lifting device includes portions that are configured to slidably couple or engage each of the communication apparatuses. The lifting device is movable between a raised position and a lowered position. As the lifting device rises, the communications apparatuses pivot from a closed position to an open position. Similarly, when the lifting device lowers or retracts, the communications apparatuses pivot from the open position to the closed position.

[0007] In one embodiment, the tabletop includes a first surface, each of the communication apparatuses include a second surface, and the lifting device includes a third surface. In this embodiment, when the lifting device is in the lowered position the first surface, the second surfaces, and third surface are substantially coplanar. Thus, when the lifting device is lowered, the overall surface of the table is a single, generally coplanar and continuous surface. In this position, the entire surface area of the table can be used as a work area and resembles a traditional flat surface of a table.

[0008] In one embodiment, when the lifting device is in the raised position, the second surfaces are oriented at an angle with respect to the first and second surfaces, and the third surface is positioned above and is substantially coparallel with the first surface. Thus, when the lifting device is raised, the second surfaces of the communication apparatuses are pivoted away from the horizontal to become viewable by a user or meeting participant.

[0009] In one embodiment, the lifting device includes a platform that supports the communication apparatuses. Therefore, the platform is an extension of the lifting device that contacts and slidably engages with the communication apparatuses.

[0010] In an embodiment, each of the communication apparatuses include a cam having at least one surface. When the lifting device moves between the raised position and the lowered position, an edge of the platform slides along the surface of the cam to cause the communication apparatuses to pivot between the open position and the closed position. Therefore, because the table includes a plurality of communication apparatuses each having a cam surface and the lifting is slidably contactable with all of the communication apparatuses, the single lifting device causes all of the apparatuses to pivot between the open and closed positions.

[0011] In an embodiment, the cam includes a first surface and a second surface. The edge of the platform is spaced a distance from the first surface when the communication apparatuses are in the fully closed position. Therefore, the edge of the platform only contacts the first cam surface after the platform has been at least partially pivoted toward the open position.

[0012] In an embodiment, the tabletop further includes a plurality of platforms, that are pivotally coupled to the tabletop. Each platform included an input device mounted to the platform. In this embodiment, the platforms are pivotable about a substantially horizontal axis between a working position and a storage position. Therefore, in addition to the plurality of communication apparatuses pivotally mounted to the interior edge of the opening of the tabletop, the table further includes additional pivotally mounted input devices.

[0013] In one embodiment, a communication system is provided. The communication system includes a table having at least one leg and a tabletop supported by the leg. The tabletop includes at least one opening and at least one surface defined by the opening. A plurality of communication modules are accommodated within the opening and each of the communication modules are pivotally connected to the surface. Each communication module including a housing having a cam surface. The communication system also includes a lift device. The lift device includes a frame that is movable at least in the vertical direction. That is, the lift device enables the frame to move up and down. The frame is slidably coupled to the cam surfaces of each of the communication modules. The up and down movement of the lift device causes the frame to slide along the cam surfaces. The sliding contact of the frame to the cam surfaces of the communication modules causes the communication modules to pivot about an axis. Therefore, because the communication system includes a plurality of communication modules each having a cam surface and the frame is slidably contactable with all of the communication apparatuses, the single lift device causes all of the apparatuses to pivot to several different positions.

[0014] In an embodiment, the communication modules include at least one of: a monitor; an IEEE 1394 port; a headphone jack; a CD/ROM drive; a DVD/ROM drive; and floppy drive; a USB port; and a central processing unit. [0015] In an embodiment, each communication module includes an extruded frame, and at least one monitor, at least one central processing unit, and an at least partially transparent panel mounted to the extruded frame, and wherein each of the extruded frames are separately hingedly attached to the surface. In one embodiment, the panel is a partially transparent gray glass panel, where a computer monitor may be viewed through a portion of the panel. It should be appreciated that the panel may be any other suitable material or color provided that at least a portion of the panel is at least partially transparent. Thus, the communication system can accommodate a number of communication modules that are pivotally connected to the table and that can pivot between an open and closed position.

[0016] In one embodiment, each communication module includes a plurality of workstations. Each workstation includes a monitor, a central processing unit, and an input/output panel. In one embodiment, the tabletop further includes a plurality of secondary openings. A plurality of input devices are accommodated within each of the openings, each input device being pivotally connected to the tabletop. Therefore, in addition to the workstations included as part of the pivotable communication modules, the table further includes other pivotal input devices. In one embodiment, each communication module is pivotable about a different substantially horizontal axis.

[0017] In one embodiment, a table such as a conference table, work table or desk is provided. The table includes a body having an interior space. The table also includes a tabletop supported by the body. The table includes a substantially horizontal surface. The table also includes at least one opening, where the opening has several interior edges. The table includes a plurality of platforms, where each platform is pivotally coupled to one of the interior edges of the tabletop. In this embodiment, each platform is pivotable about a different axis. A lifting device is housed in the interior space of the body and provides the driving force to pivot the platforms between an open or working state and a close or storage state. The lifting device slidably couples to each of the platforms and is movable between a raised position and a lowered position. The movement of the lifting device causes the platforms to pivot between a retracted position and an extended position.

[0018] In an embodiment, each of the axes or rotations are substantially horizontal.

[0019] In an embodiment, the opening in the tabletop is a square or rectangular opening having four interior edges. However, it should be appreciated that the opening in the tabletop can be any suitably polygonal shape with any suitable number of sides. In an embodiment, the edges of the opening in the tabletop are straight edges. [0020] In an embodiment, when the platforms are in the retracted position, upper surfaces of the platforms are substantially flush with the horizontal surface of the tabletop. In an embodiment, when the platforms are in the extended position, the upper surfaces of the platforms extend above and are oriented at an angle relative to the horizontal surface of the tabletop.

[0021] In an embodiment, the tabletop includes a plurality of secondary openings. Each of the secondary opening accommodates a communication device, where the communication device includes a support and an input device mounted to the support. In this embodiment, the support is pivotally connected to the tabletop and pivotable about a substantially horizontal axis between a storage position and a working position. In one embodiment, the input device is a keyboard.

[0022] Additional features and advantages are described herein, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0023] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a table having a communication system in the open or working position;

[0024] Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a table having a communication system in the closed or storage position;

[0025] Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a table having a communication system in transition between a working position and a storage position;

[0026] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional side view illustrating an embodiment of a table having a communication system in an closed or storage position.

[0027] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional side view illustrating an embodiment of a table having a communication system in an open or working position.

[0028] Figure 6 is a top view illustrating an embodiment of a table having a communication system in an closed or storage position.

[0029] Figure 7 is a top view illustrating an embodiment of a table having a communication system in an open or working position.

[0030] Figures 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D are cross-sectional perspective views of an embodiment of the table, illustrating steps of the transition from the closed or storage position to the open or working position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The present disclosure relates to tables, communication systems that are intended to be incorporated within a tabletop, and methods for conducting business meetings. As used in the present disclosure, the expression "tabletop" means any surface that is elevated and designed to afford an individual the ability to utilize the surface for work, eating, or similar activities, including surfaces defined by tables, desks, end tables, coffee tables, or conference tables. For example, the tabletop could include a large conference table that is 3-30 feet or more in length and has a plurality of communications systems connected to the tabletop, thereby providing a conference table wherein a number of people may be seated about the periphery of the table, and have a separate communication system or module available for their use.

[0032] As illustrated in Fig. 1, an embodiment of a table is generally designated by the numeral 100. The table 100 includes: (a) a body 102 having at least one frame or supporting member 106; (b) a tabletop 104 supported by the body 102; and (c) a lift device 108 housed in an interior space 170 of the body 102.

[0033] In one embodiment as illustrated in Fig. 1, the body 102 is a box-shaped housing having four side walls. The body 102 defines an interior space that is sized to house a lift mechanism or device 108, and at least portions of a plurality of communication apparatuses 121. It should be appreciated that the body 102 may be any suitable shape such as circular, ovular, rectangular, or another multisided polygon. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the supporting member 106 includes four legs 115. However, it should be appreciated that any number of table legs or other suitable supporting structures may be used that provide support for the tabletop 104. In one embodiment, the legs define an interior space that can house a number of wirings or other components of a communication system.

[0034] The tabletop 104 has a generally horizontal top surface 119 portion and includes an opening 107 in an interior portion of the tabletop 104. The opening 107 is sized to accommodate a plurality of platforms 110 that are pivotally attached to the tabletop 104, where each platform 110 includes one or more communication apparatuses 121 or modules. In an embodiment, the opening 107 of the tabletop 104 defines a plurality of edges 260 or interior surfaces (see also, Fig. 8A). In this embodiment, the platforms 110 are pivotally connected or attached to the tabletop 104 at or near the edges 260 such that the platforms 110 can pivot within or about the opening 107. The opening 107 is also sized to accommodate at least a portion of the lift device 108, as described further below. [0035] In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 1, the opening 107 in the tabletop 104 is a square opening having four interior edges 260. The tabletop 104 includes four ledges or platforms 110 that are pivotally connected to the tabletop 104, as described above. The platforms 110 are pivotable within the opening 107 about a substantially horizontal axis and connect to the interior edges 260 of the tabletop 104. The platforms 110 are pivotable between an open or working position (see, Fig. 1) and a closed or storage position (see, Fig. 2). In an embodiment, the platforms 110 are shaped in a manner that allows them to pivot between the open position and closed position without physically interfering with one another (see, Fig. 3).

[0036] In the example embodiment shown in Figs. 1-3, the platforms 110 have a generally rectangular shape, where the length (L_p) of the platform 110 is substantially equal to the length (L₀) of the opening 107 and where the width (W_p) of the platform 110 is less than half of the width (W₀) of the opening 107. (See also, Fig. 6). Therefore, when all of the platforms 110 are pivoted into the storage position, the platforms 110 only cover a portion of the opening 107. As described in further detail below, a secondary tabletop 137 of the lift device 108 fills in or completes the rest of the opening 107 to form a flat surface of the table 100 when the table is in the closed or storage position, as shown in Fig. 2.

[0037] In one embodiment, the corners of the platform 110 are chamfered at a roughly forty- five degree angle, as shown in Figs. 1, 6 and 7. However, it should be appreciated that the corners of the platform 110 may be chamfered at any other suitable angle as required by the shape or geometry of the opening 107. Therefore, where the opening 107 in the tabletop 104 is a square or rectangular shape, the four platforms 110 can be pivotally attached to the edges 260 of the opening 107 and can pivot between the open or working position and the closed position without physical interfering with one another. Also, when the platforms are in the storage position, the chamfered edges meet to form a continuous surface so that the top surfaces 262 of the platforms 110 can be used as a work surface of the table 100. Accordingly, the platforms 110 function as a communication station or workstation when in the open position, and function as part of a table surface when in the storage position. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the number of platforms 110 and the shapes of the platforms 110 may be different, and the platforms 110 may not have chamfered corners, provided that the platforms can be moved or pivoted between the open and closed positions without physically interfering with one another. For example, in other embodiments the platforms may be a simple rectangular shape. [0038] In an embodiment as illustrated in Fig. 1, each of the platforms 110 support a plurality of communication components of a user workstation or computing station. For each workstation, the components include a display devices or monitor 114, an input/output panel 118, and a central processing unit 144. (See also, Fig. 4). When the platforms 110 are in the closed position, as shown in Fig. 2, the top surface 262 of the platform 110 is substantially coplanar or flush with the top surface 119 of the tabletop 104. In this position, the monitors 114 are also substantially coplanar with the tabletop 104 are and less visible or non- visible to a user seated at the table 100. However, when the platforms 110 are pivoted to the open position, as shown in Fig. 1, the surface of the platform 110 is inclined at an relatively steep angle such that the monitors are viewable to a user or meeting participant. The monitors 114 can be inclined to a ninety degree angle relative to the tabletop 104, a near ninety degree angle, or any suitable angle that allows a viewer or user to observe the display device or monitor 114, such as with a desktop or laptop computer monitor.

[0039] In an embodiment, the platforms also include input/output panels 118 that allow for user interaction and information transfer when the platforms 114 are pivoted to the open position. In one embodiment, the input/output panels 118 include a plurality of input/output (I/O) devices such as a CD/DVD read only memory (ROM) device, a universal serial bus (USB), a power switch, an earphone or headphone jack, an IEEE 1394 interface, a speaker, a microphone, and an electrical receptacle or socket. It should be appreciated that the input/output panels 118 may include any combination of the above I/O devices and more than one of a particular type of I/O device. It should also be appreciated that the input/output panels 118 can include or accommodate any number of other suitable I/O devices that enable a user or meeting participant to send and/or receive audio and visual information. In one embodiment, the input/output panels 118 include a cover plate (not shown). The cover plate is movable with respect to the input/output panel 118 and can move, slide or pivot between an open and a closed position. In the open position, the I/O devices on the input/output panel are exposed for user interaction, and the in the closed position, the I/O devices are hidden or covered.

[0040] In one embodiment as illustrated in Figs. 4 and 5, the table 100 includes a plurality of openings 400 that are configured to accommodate a plurality of input devices 116 such as keyboards. In Fig. 4, the openings 400 are illustrated to be of a substantially rectangular cross-sectional configuration. However, while the openings 400 are shown in a substantially square cross-sectional configuration, it should be appreciated that other geometric shapes are possible that allow for a pivoting motion of the input devices 116 embedded in the surface 119 of the table 100. For example, the openings 400 may be substantially ovular, circular, rectangular, or any other suitable geometric shape. In an embodiment, the shape of the openings 400 are symmetrical to allow for a 180 degree pivot of the input devices 116 between a working position and a storage position. More generally, the openings 400 should be a shape that corresponds to a shape of a working surface and a shape of the storage surface of the input devices 116, such that when the input devices 116 are pivoted from one position to another, the working surface and the storage surface substantially fit within the openings 400. It should be appreciated that the input devices 116 may be two-way communication devices that allow for information transfer to and from the central processing units 144 attached to the pivotable platforms 110.

[0041] As illustrated in Figs. 2, 4 and 8A, the input devices 116 are in the storage or closed position. Therefore, the input devices or keyboards 116 are hidden or located under the surface 119 of the tabletop 104. In one embodiment, each opening 400 is sized to accommodate a single keyboard 116. In another embodiment, each opening 400 is sized to accommodate a plurality of keyboards 116 that are each independently pivotable with respect to the tabletop 104. In this embodiment, the keyboards 116 are independently pivotable from the platforms 110. In the example illustrated in Fig. 1, where the input devices 116 are keyboards and each platform 110 includes two computing workstations, each opening 400 accommodates two keyboards that are mounted to a support member 112. Thus, when all of the platforms 110 of the table 100 are pivoted to the working position, one or more users can have their keyboard 116 pivoted to the closed position, and other users can have their keyboard 116 pivoted to the working position. Accordingly, certain users that are not using the keyboard 116 and have the input device pivoted to the closed or storage position, can use the additional surface area of the tabletop 104 as a work area.

[0042] As shown in Figs. 8 A to 8D, in an embodiment the input device 116 is mounted to a platform 112 or support that is pivotally connected to the tabletop 104. However, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, a plurality of input devices 116 or keyboards are mounted to a common support member 112 and are pivotable together. In an embodiment, the support member 112 includes an upper surface 401 and a lower surface 402 In an embodiment, the surfaces of the input devices 116 are aesthetically pleasing and may also have a surface characteristic similar to the surface 119 of the tabletop 104. As shown in Figs. 1, 5 and 8D, a plurality of the input devices 116 are in the working or open position. Thus, the input devices 116 or keyboards extend from the surface 119 of the tabletop 104 and are available for use. [0043] In an embodiment, as shown in Figs. 8A to 8D, the input devices 116 are housed in troughs 300 that are mounted to or formed into a portion of the tabletop 104. The troughs 300 function to at least partially conceal or contain the input devices 116 or keyboards. Therefore, when the keyboard 116 is pivoted into the closed or storage position, the keyboard is protected from being bumped from the underside by a user. In one embodiment, one or more wirings from the input devices 116, such a power cord, can be routed to their respective central processing units 144. In this fashion, the wires are not visible to a user and are still capable of being routed to the appropriate power source or data line.

[0044] In one embodiment, the central pivotal axis 406 (see, Fig. 8A) is located slightly below the surface 119 of the tabletop 104 by a distance generally corresponding to half of the thickness of the support 112. That is, when the support 112 is pivoted to the storage position, the surface 402 of the input devices is substantially parallel with the surface 119 of the tabletop 104. Accordingly, the surface 402 is exposed when the input device 116 is in the storage position or closed position and the keyboard is exposed when the support 112 is pivoted one-hundred eighty degrees into the working or open or operating position.

[0045] In an embodiment, the keyboards 116 each includes a switch or switching device (not shown) that activates the power for the keyboard such that when a user pivots the support 112 from the storage position to the working or open position the input device 116 powers on. In one example, when the support 112 is pivoted into the working position, the support 112 completes an electrical circuit to cause the keyboard 116 to turn on or power up. Similarly, when the support 112 is pivoted away from the working position, the electrical circuit is broken and the keyboard 116 is powered down. The switching device may be a mercury switch, a roller ball or any other suitable electrical switching device that operates, at least in part, based on gravity. In other embodiments, the keyboard 116 may be powered on even when the support 112 is pivoted to the storage or closed position. In this embodiment, the switching devices associated with the keyboards 116 does not affect the power to the separate user computing workstation monitors or central processing units.

[0046] In operation, when the table 100 is in the closed or non- working position (see, Fig. 2), the platforms 110 having the monitors 114 and CPUs 144 mounted thereon are pivoted to be flush or coplanar with the main surface 119 of the tabletop 104. Also, a cover plate (not shown) is slid into the closed position to cover or conceal the I/O devices. Therefore, the entire surface of the table 100 can be used as a standard meeting or conference or work table for a plurality of participants or users without having a distracting appearance and while physically protecting the plurality of I/O devices. When the platforms 114 are pivoted to the open or working position (see, Figs. 2 and 3), the cover plate can be moved or slid or pivoted back to reveal the I/O devices for use. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the I/O panels 118 may be accessed by a user even when the platforms 114 are in the storage position.

[0047] Referring to Fig. 4, in an embodiment, the table 100 includes a lift device 108, as discussed above. The lift device 108 includes a housing 270, a drive mechanism or motor 142 connected to the housing 270, a processor 144 or central processing unit to control the drive mechanism 142, and a secondary tabletop 137 movably connected to the housing 270. In operation, the processor 144 controls the drive mechanism 142 and causes the secondary tabletop 137 to raise or lower relative to the housing 270 and the main tabletop 104. In an embodiment, as illustrated in Figs. 4 and 5, the secondary tabletop 137 includes a central upper surface 138 and a support ledge 140 surrounding the upper surface 138. The secondary tabletop 137 is movable between a raised or extended position (see, Fig. 5) and a lowered or retracted position (see, Fig. 4). When the secondary tabletop 137 is in the retracted position, the surface 138 of the secondary tabletop 137 is substantially coplanar with the surface 119 of the main tabletop 104. When the secondary tabletop 137 is in the extended position, the surface 138 of the secondary tabletop 137 is located above the surface 119 of the main tabletop 104. Therefore, when the secondary tabletop 137 is in the retracted position and the platforms 110 are in the storage position, the surface 119 of the main tabletop 104, the top surface 262 of the platform 110, and the top surface 138 of the secondary tabletop 137 form a substantially coplanar and continuous overall surface of the table 100. Accordingly, when the table 100 is in this configuration the entire surface of the table 100 is available as a work surface such as in a traditional flat conference table. Also, in this configuration, the communication apparatuses that include the monitor 114 and I/O panel 118, and the input devices or keyboards 116 are in storage position and not available for use. Conversely, when the secondary tabletop 137 is raised to the extended position and the platforms 110 are pivoted to the open or working position, the communications apparatuses are available for use and only a portion of the overall surface of the table 100 is available as a work surface.

[0048] In an embodiment, the peripheral support ledge 140 that surrounds and extends outwardly from the secondary tabletop 137 supports at least a portion of the mass of the four platforms 110. In this embodiment, the ledge 140 slidably contacts the platforms 110 such that when the lift device 108 drives the secondary tabletop 137 and ledge 140 upward or downward, an edge 370 of the peripheral support ledge 140 slides along cam surfaces 380 of the platforms 110, as shown in Figs. 8A to 8D.

[0049] In an embodiment, as illustrated in Figs. 8A to 8D, the pivotable platforms 110 each include a mounting bracket 170 pivotally attached to the tabletop 104. At least one monitor housing 186, central processing unit 144, and glass viewing panel 187 are mounted on or fixedly attached to the bracket 170. One or more monitors 114 are fixedly attached to the bracket 170 and contained within the monitor housing 186. The monitor housing 186 includes a lower cam surface 380 that is oriented at an angle relative to the glass viewing panel 187. The lower portion of monitor housing 186 also includes a secondary surface 386 that is angled with respect to both the glass viewing panel 187 and the cam surface 380. Thus, an apex 384 is formed at the intersection of the cam surface 380 and the secondary surface 386 of the monitor housing 186. In this embodiment, the peripheral ledge 140 is positioned below the surface 138 of the secondary tabletop 137 and extends outward to at least partially support the platforms 110, as discussed above. The ledge 140 includes a main upper surface 388 and an inclined surface 382. As shown in Fig. 8A, when the secondary tabletop 137 is in the lowered position and the platform 110 is pivoted to the storage position, the secondary surface 386 of the monitor housing 186 rests against the inclined surface 382 of the ledge 140.

[0050] Figs. 8A to 8D illustrate the transition of the secondary tabletop 137 and the platform 110 as the drive mechanism 142 lifts the tabletop 137 from the retracted position to the extended position. Initially, a lifting force is applied by the main surface 388 of the ledge 140 at or near the apex 384 of the monitor housing 186, causing the platform 110 to begin to pivot about the axis of rotation 190. As illustrated in Fig. 8B, as the tabletop 137 continues to rise and the platform 110 continues to pivot, the main upper surface 388 of the ledge 140 comes into contact with the cam surface 380 of the monitor housing 186. At this point, the lifting force applied by the ledge 140 is shifted from a position near or at the apex 384 of the monitor housing 186 to a point on the cam surface 380 closer to the axis of rotation 190. More specifically, the lifting force is applied by the edge 370 of the peripheral ledge 140 to the cam surface 380 of the monitor housing 186. As shown in Fig. 8C, as the tabletop 137 continues to rise and the platform 110 continues to pivot, the edge 370 slidably moves along the cam surface 380 in a direction away from the central pivoting axis or axis of rotation 190 of the platform 110. As shown in Fig. 8D, when the tabletop 137 has risen to the fully extended position, the edge 370 of the ledge 149 has traveled along the majority of the cam surface 380 of the monitor housing 186 toward the apex 384, thus causing the platform 110 to fully pivot to the working or open position. In this position, the monitor 114 is oriented at an angle to be viewable to a user through the transparent glass viewing panel 187. Because the ledge 140 contacts the monitor housings of each of the four platforms 110, all of the platforms pivot simultaneously. Accordingly, a single lifting device or mechanism causes a plurality of communication apparatuses spaced at different positions on a meeting or conference table 100 to simultaneously pivot between a working position and a storage position.

[0051] When lifting device 108 retracts or lowers, the edge 370 of the ledge 140 slides along the cam surface 380 of the monitor housing 186 in a direction toward the axis of rotation 190, and the platform 110 begins to pivot from the open or working position to the closed or storage position. As explained above, when the tabletop 137 is retracted or lowered to the position shown in Fig. 8B, the lifting force applied from the ledge 140 to the monitor housing 186 is shifted from the edge 370 to a position on the ledge 140 corresponding to the apex 384 of the monitor housing 186. This enables the platform 110 to pivot through the remainder of its rotation to the closed position in a smooth manner and without significant slamming or jarring between the platform 110 and the ledge 140.

[0052] It should be appreciated that although the monitor housing 186 is described above as having a single planar cam surface, the monitor housing may instead have a curved cam surface or a cam surface having a plurality of straight surfaces, and any combination thereof. It should also be appreciated that the inclined surface of the ledge 382 and the secondary inclined surface 386 of the monitor housing 186 may be omitted, oriented at a different angle, or may form a part of the main cam surface.

[0053] As described above with reference to Figs. 8A to 8D, in an embodiment, the platforms 110 include a mounting bracket 170 having several components mounted thereto. In one embodiment as illustrated best in Fig. 9, the bracket 170 is a hollow extrusion formed of a strong material such as metal. It should be appreciated that the metal may be aluminum, steel, stainless steel, titanium, or any other suitable metal material or alloy thereof that is suitable to at least support the mass of the attached monitor 114 and monitor housing, the central processing unit, 144, and the glass viewing panel 187. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 9, the mounting bracket 170 includes a hook 216, a lower surface 210 and a receiver 212. The receiver 212 is configured to receive one end of the glass viewing panel 187, as shown in Fig. 8 A. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the monitor housing 168 mounts or fixedly attaches to the lower surface 210 of the mounting bracket 170. Referring again to

Fig. 9, the hook 216 has a partially tubular profile and defines a partially tubular interior space 197 that is configured to accept the extruded cylinder 196 of a second bracket 172 (see, Fig. 10), where the second bracket 172 is fixedly mounted to the tabletop 104. In operation, the hook 216 of the mounting bracket 170 is inserted into a cavity 194 that is defined by the body 199 and the cylinder 196 of the second bracket 172. As the platform 110 is pivoted to the upright or working position, an edge 214 of the hook 216 comes into contact with a wall 192 of the cavity 194. Thus, the wall 192 functions as a hard stop or limit that restricts the rotational range of the platform 110. Accordingly, even if the rotational range is also limited by the settings of the lift device, the hard stop of the wall 192 functions as a safety device and restricts the ability of a user or meeting participant from pulling or tugging on the platform 110.

[0054] In one embodiment as shown in Figs 4 and 5, a remote control device 470 controls the lift device 107. In another embodiment, the remote control device 470 enables remote communication or control between an operator such as a meeting administrator and one or more central processing units 114 from one or more tables 100 in a meeting room. For example, in a meeting room, a plurality of tables each having a plurality of computing workstations are connected through a network and the remote control can specify or enable or direct a single workstation to be a presenter workstation. That is, the user as this workstation can publish images or files or other information to the other workstations in the network. For example, the user may give a slide presentation that can be accessed through the users workstation. In addition, the user may access the slide presentation or other file through the network or through a memory card or memory stick attached to the users PC.

[0055] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMSThe invention is claimed as follows:

1. A table comprising: a body defining a tabletop and having an interior; a plurality of communication devices pivotally coupled to the tabletop, each communication device pivotable between an open position and a closed position, at least two of the communication devices located at an angle of at least 45° relative to one another; a member located at least when the communications devices are in the closed position at least partially within the interior of the body and so constructed and arranged to cause the pivotal movement of the plurality of communication apparatuses.

2. The table according to Claim 1, wherein the member is movable between a raised position and a lowered position.

3. The table according to Claim 2, wherein when the member is in the lowered position, a surface of the tabletop, surfaces of the communication devices, and a surface of the member are substantially coplanar.

4. The table according to Claim 2, wherein when the member is in the raised position, the surfaces of the communication devices are oriented at an angle with respect to the surface of the tabletop and the surface of the member.

5. The table according to Claim 4, wherein when the member is in the raised position, the surface of the member is positioned above the surface of the tabletop.

6. The table according to Claim 1, wherein the member includes at least one platform slidably connected to each the communication devices.

7. The table according to Claim 6, wherein the communication devices each include a lower cam surface, and when the member moves between the raised position and the lowered position, an edge of the platform slides along the cam surfaces of each of the communication devices to cause the communication devices to pivot between the open position and the closed position.

8. The table according to Claim 1, wherein the tabletop further includes a plurality of input devices, each input device pivotally coupled to the tabletop and pivotable about a substantially horizontal axis between an open position and a closed position.

9. The table according to Claim 8, wherein the input devices are keyboards, and each keyboard is operably coupled to one of the communication devices.

10. A communication system comprising: a table having a body, the body defining a tabletop and having an interior; a plurality of communication devices pivotally coupled to the tabletop, each communication device pivotable between an open position and a closed position, at least two of the communication devices positioned at an angle of at least 45° relative to one another; a member movably located at least partially within the interior of the body and so constructed and arranged to cause the pivotal movement of the plurality of communication apparatuses.

11. The communication system of Claim 10, wherein the communication devices include at least one device selected from the group consisting of: a monitor; an IEEE 1394 port; a headphone jack; a CD/ROM drive; a DVD/ROM drive; a floppy drive; a USB port; and a central processing unit.

12. The communication system of Claim 10, including a plurality of housings hingedly connected to the tabletop, wherein at least two communication devices are mounted to each of the housings.

13. The communication system of Claim 12, wherein the member is slidably connected to each of the housings, the movement of the member causing the housings to pivot between the open position and the closed position.

14. The communication system of Claim 12, wherein each of the housings are pivotable about a different horizontal axis.

15. The communication system of Claim 10, wherein the tabletop includes a plurality of secondary openings, and a plurality of input devices accommodated within each of the openings, each input device being separately pivotally connected to the tabletop and pivotable through at least a 180° angle.

16. A table comprising : a body defining a tabletop and having an interior; a plurality of platforms pivotally coupled to the tabletop, each platform pivotable between an open position and a closed position about a different substantially horizontal axis; a member located at least partially within the interior of the body and movable between a raised position and a lowered position, the movement of the member causing the pivotal movement of the plurality of platforms.

17. The table of Claim 16, wherein each of the platforms include at least one communication device.

18. The table according to Claim 16, wherein the tabletop includes a substantially square or rectangular opening defining four interior edges, and wherein one platform is pivotally connected to each of the interior edges.

19. The table according to Claim 18, wherein when the member is moved to the lowered position, all of the platforms are pivoted to be substantially flush with a surface of the tabletop.

20. The table according to Claim 18, wherein when the member is moved to the raised position, all of the platforms are pivoted to extend above and be oriented at an angle relative to a surface of the tabletop.