WO2013093813A1

WO2013093813A1 - Connector, table and storage system therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2013093813A1
Application number: PCT/IB2012/057498
Authority: WO
Inventors: Andrew Cameron; Mark Trevor BOURNEVILLE
Original assignee: Clifton Operations Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2011-12-23
Filing date: 2012-12-20
Publication date: 2013-06-27

Abstract

The present invention relates to a connector arrangement and folding arrangement for connecting at least two tables to each other to hold them in alignment, and which allows for the table legs to fold up. The invention further provides for a storage system and method for handling and storage of folding and folded tables.

Description

CONNECTOR, TABLE AND STORAGE SYSTEM THEREFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a table, as well as a connector system and storage system therefor. More particularly but not exclusively it relates to a table for use as a seminar table that provides for convenient logistics in the setting up and storage thereof.

BACKGROUND ART

Tables are used extensively throughout the world in the context of meeting rooms. In some instances, businesses have built up around the provision of meeting rooms for delegates that may not have adequate facilities in house.

Such service provider may have many rooms, that may be used for alternative functions in a short period of time. For this reason, such tables may be set up and removed from a room many times a day. In setting the tables up for a meeting, it is desirable that tables are conveniently secured in a required configuration, to prevent the tables moving around (for example if bumped) and provide an aesthetically undesirable look to the meeting room.

Further, when such tables are to be removed from the meeting room, they must be able to be conveniently detached from each other, and able to be stored away in a space saving configuration.

In this specification, where reference has been made to external sources of information, including patent specifications and other documents, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the present invention. Unless stated otherwise, reference to such sources of information is not to be construed, in any jurisdiction, as an admission that such sources of information are prior art or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

For the purposes of this specification, the term "plastic" shall be construed to mean a general term for a wide range of synthetic or semi-synthetic polymerization products, and generally consisting of a hydrocarbon-based polymer.

For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be chronologically ordered in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence. It is an object of the present invention to provide a table which overcomes or at least partially ameliorates some of the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

It is a further and/or alternative object of the present invention to provide a connector system for a table which overcomes or at least partially ameliorates some of the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

It is a further and/or alternative object of the present invention to provide a storage system for one or more tables which overcomes or at least partially ameliorates some of the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect the present invention may be said to broadly consist in a connector arrangement suitable for connecting two tables to each other, the connector arrangement being associated with one of said tables, the tables comprising a table surface member configured for presenting a horizontal support surface and comprising

β an engaging formation movable between

o an unextended position, and

o an extended position in which the engaging formation is engageable with a complementary engaging formation of a similar connector arrangement associated with an adjacent table to hold the adjacent table in alignment with said associated table.

o wherein the connector formation is associated with a table leg.

Preferably, the engaging formation is pivotable about a pivoting axis between its unextended position and its extended position.

Preferably, the connector arrangement comprises complementary engaging formations for engaging with the engaging formation of a similar connector arrangement associated with an adjacent table.

Preferably, the connector formation comprises table leg connecting formations configured for connection to a table leg.

Preferably, the table leg connecting formations are configured for removable connection to a table leg.

Preferably, the connector formation comprises a table leg. Preferably, the engaging formation in its unextended position is configured and adapted not to extend from the table surface member.

Preferably, the pivoting axis is substantially vertically oriented.

Preferably, the pivoting axis is substantially coaxial with a longitudinal axis of a table leg.

Preferably, the engaging formation comprises a hook formation.

Preferably, the connector arrangement is configured for supporting the associated table on its side.

Preferably, the engaging formation is configured to engage in a complementary manner with a similar engaging formation on an adjacent table.

Preferably, the connector arrangement comprises a running formation movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which it extends from the periphery of the table surface to present a running surface on which the table is supportable on its side.

Preferably, the running formation presents a running surface on which the table is movable when the table is on its side to protect the sides of the table from abrasion.

Preferably, the running surface is comprised of a relatively frictionless and/or abrasion resistant material.

Preferably, the connector formation comprises body member.

Preferably, the body member is securable to one or more selected form the table leg and the table surface member.

Preferably, the connector arrangement comprises a folding arrangement by which the associated table leg can be folded between a supporting position and a folded position.

Preferably, the folding arrangement allows the table leg to fold between a standing position in which the table leg extends substantially transversely from the table surface member, and folded position in which the table leg is in a more compacted position relative the table surface member.

Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises a locking arrangement by which the table leg can be locked in one or more selected from its supporting position and its folded position.

Preferably, the running formation is configured to move to its extended position as the table leg moves to its folded position.

Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises

• a table top portion that is secured or securable to the table surface member, and • a leg portion that is secured or securable with the associated table leg to move with it relative to the table surface member.

Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises a securing arrangement for securing the folding arrangement to a planar table surface member.

Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises a leg securing arrangement for securing the folding arrangement to a table leg.

Preferably, the locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable within a slot.

Preferably, the slot is defined by the body member.

Preferably, the slot is defined by one or more selected from the leg portion and table top portion.

Preferably, when the table leg is in its folded position, the locking pin is movable in said slot between

• a locked position in which the table leg is not movable into its standing position, and

• an unlocked position in which the table leg is movable into its standing position.

Preferably, when the table leg is in its standing position, the locking pin is movable in said slot between

· a locked position in which the table leg is not movable into its folded position, and

• an unlocked position in which the table leg is movable into its folded position.

Preferably, the locking pin interacts with one or more selected from the table top portion and the leg portion to lock relative movement between the leg portion and the table top portion.

Preferably, the one or more selected form the table top portion and the leg portion comprises engaging formations for engaging with the locking pin.

Preferably, the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its folded position.

Preferably, the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its folded position.

Alternately, the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its unfolded position. Alternately, the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its unfolded position. 1 In another aspect, the invention may be said to broadly consist in a folding arrangement, the folding arrangement being associated with at least one or more table leg and a table surface member in a table assembly, the folding arrangement comprising

a) a table top portion that is secured or securable to the table surface member, and

b) a leg portion that is secured or securable with the associated table leg to move with it relative to the table surface member;

wherein the table top portion and the leg portion are movable relative each other so that the table leg can be pivoted with respect to the table surface member between

o a standing position in which the table leg extends from the table surface member in a position on which the table assembly can be supported operationally, and

o a folded position in which the table leg is in a more compacted position relative the table surface member; and a locking mechanism by which the table leg can be locked in one or more selected from its supporting position and its folded position

Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises one or more table legs. Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises a securing arrangement for securing the folding arrangement to a planar table surface member.

Preferably, when the table leg is in its standing position, the locking pin is movable in said slot between β a locked position in which the table leg is not movable into its folded position, and

β an unlocked position in which the table leg is movable into its folded position.

Alternately, the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its unfolded position.

Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises an engaging formation movable between

e an unextended position, and

• an extended position in which the engaging formation is engageable with a complementary engaging formation of a similar connector arrangement associated with an adjacent table to hold the adjacent table in alignment with said associated table.

Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises complementary engaging formations for engaging with the engaging formation of a similar connector arrangement associated with an adjacent table.

Preferably, the folding arrangement is associated with a table leg.

Preferably, the connector formation is associated with each table leg. Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises table leg connecting formations for connecting to a table leg.

Preferably, the table leg connecting formations are configured for removably connecting to a table leg.

Preferably, the connector formation comprises a table leg.

Preferably, the engaging formation in its unextended position is configured and adapted not to extend from the table surface member.

Preferably, the pivoting axis is substantially vertically oriented. Preferably, the pivoting axis is substantially in coaxial with a longitudinal axis of a table leg.

Preferably, the engaging formation comprises a hook formation. Preferably, the folding arrangement is configured for supporting the associated table on its side.

Preferably, the folding arrangement comprises a running formation movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which it extends from the periphery of the table surface to present a running surface on which the table is supportable on its side.

In another aspect, the invention may be said to broadly consist in a table assembly, said table assembly comprising

» a table surface member configured for presenting a substantially horizontal surface in operation;

• at least or more table legs; and

• one or more selected from a connector arrangement and a folding arrangement as described above.

In another aspect, the invention may be said to broadly consist in a table storage arrangement for storing one or more table assemblies, said table storage arrangement comprising

• at least one or more engaging formations for engaging with and supporting an underside of a table surface member, the engaging formations movable between an upper position and a lower position; o at least one or more lifting arrangement configured and adapted for lifting at least one or more engaging formations between their upper position and their lower position.

Preferably, an engaging formation is associated with each lifting arrangement.

Preferably, each lifting arrangement comprises a force generating device. Alternately, at least one or more of the lifting arrangements is associated with a force generating device.

Alternately, each lifting arrangement comprises its own force generating device.

Preferably, the force generating device comprises one or more selected from a

» pulley arrangement;

o hydraulic piston arrangement;

· pneumatic piston arrangement;

o electrical winch arrangement;

• worm gear arrangement;

« rack and pinion arrangement.

Preferably, the force generating device is manually operable.

Alternately, the force generating device comprises a prime mover.

Preferably, the prime mover is an electrical motor.

Preferably, the table storage arrangement comprises a base arrangement.

Preferably, the base arrangement comprises a set of wheels on which the base arrangement is movable.

Preferably, the lifting arrangement is supported on the base arrangement.

Preferably, the lifting arrangement comprises a vertical support arrangement.

Preferably, the vertical support arrangement comprises a vertically aligned spine member.

Preferably, a plurality of engaging formations extend horizontally from the spine member.

Preferably, each of the plurality of engaging formations is movable upwardly along the spine member.

Preferably, the each of the plurality of engaging formations is movable upwardly along the spine member by the force lifting arrangement. Preferably, the table storage arrangement is configured for storing a plurality of table assemblies that comprise a table surface member and table legs foldable between a standing position in which the table leg extends from the table surface member, and a folded position in which the table leg is in a more compacted position relative the table surface member; and

• wherein the table storage arrangement is configured and adapted for operationally lifting an initial table assembly up, and supporting the table assembly off the ground while its legs are folded to their folded position, and then further lifting the table assembly into a storage position, so that a subsequent table assembly can be inserted under the initial table assembly for being lifted up and having its legs folded into a folded position for storage under the initial table assembly.

In another aspect, the invention may be said to broadly consist in a method of storing table assemblies that comprise a table surface member and table legs foldable between a standing position in which the table leg extends substantially transversely from the table surface member, and a folded position in which the table leg is in a more compacted position relative the table surface member, said method comprising the steps of

β lifting an initial table assembly,

o folding the legs of the initial table assembly into a folded position so that the initial table assembly is in a folded state;

• further lifting the initial table assembly in its folded state into a storage position;

· lifting a subsequent table assembly

• folding the legs of the subsequent table assembly into a folded position so that the subsequent table assembly is in a folded state;

β further lifting the subsequent table assembly in its folded state into a storage position below the initial table assembly.

Other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

As used herein the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both. As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun. In this specification, where reference has been made to external sources of information, including patent specifications and other documents, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the present invention. Unless stated otherwise, reference to such sources of information is not to be construed, in any jurisdiction, as an admission that such sources of information are prior art or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

The term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of". When interpreting statements in this specification which include that term, the features, prefaced by that term in each statement, all need to be present but other features can also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprised" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings in which :

Figure 1: shows a side cutaway view of a table assembly;

Figure 2: shows a side view of a folding arrangement showing how the table leg moves in hidden detail;

Figure 3: shows a side view of a folding arrangement showing table leg in hidden detail;

Figure 4: shows a top view of a pair of table assemblies connected by their respective connector arrangements;

Figure 5: shows a top view of three table assemblies connected by their respective connector arrangements;

Figure 6: shows a top view of three table assemblies connected by their respective connector arrangements;

Figure 7: shows a top view of three table assemblies connected by their respective connector arrangements;

Figure 8: shows a top view of five table assemblies connected by their respective connector arrangements; Figure 9: shows a top view of three table assemblies connected by their respective connector arrangements;

Figure 10: shows a side view of a table assembly including a connector arrangement and a folding arrangement;

Figure 11: shows a connector arrangement;

Figure 12: shows a pair of a connector arrangements engaged with each other;

Figure 13: shows a connector arrangement;

Figure 14: shows a side view of a table assembly including a connector arrangement and a folding arrangement;

Figure 15: shows a top perspective view of a table storage arrangement;

Figure 16: shows a top perspective view of a table storage arrangement;

Figure 17: shows a top perspective view of a table storage arrangement lifting one table assembly;

Figure 18: shows a top perspective view of a table storage arrangement lifting six table assemblies;

Figure 19: shows a top perspective view of a table storage arrangement;

Figure 20: shows a bottom perspective cutaway view of a table assembly with the table leg in a folded position;

Figure 21: shows a bottom perspective cutaway view of a table assembly with the table leg in a standing position;

Figure 22: shows a connector arrangement with a running formation, and engaged with a stabilising engaging formation; and

Figure 23: shows a connector arrangement with a running formation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT(S)

With reference to the above drawings, in which similar features are generally indicated by similar numerals, a table or table assembly according to a first aspect of the invention is generally indicated by the numeral 1000. Further, a connector system according to a further aspect of the invention is generally indicated by the numeral 100. Further, a storage system according to a further aspect of the invention is generally indicated by the numeral 2000. In one embodiment now described, there is provided a table assembly 1000. The table assembly 1000 comprises a table surface member 1100 and a plurality of table legs 1200(most preferably four table legs). The table assembly further comprises a connector arrangement 100 and a folding arrangement 200. The table surface member 1100 is configured for presenting a substantially horizontal surface operationally, for use as a table, and preferably as a large table suitable for conducting seminars or the like (e.g. a board room table). The table surface member 1100 may be of a wide variety of shapes when viewed in plan view, as illustrated in figures 4-9, and will preferably be planar in nature. In a preferred embodiment as shown in the figures, each table leg 1200 will be similar to each other, and will be elongate in nature.

The connector arrangement 100 is for connecting two adjacent table assemblies 1000 to each other. In a preferred embodiment, one connector arrangement 100 is associated with each leg 1200 of an associated table assembly 1000. The connector arrangement 100 comprises an engaging formation 110 that is moveable between an unextended position and an extended position. In its extended position, the engaging formation 110 is engageable with a complementary engaging formation 120 of a similar connector arrangement 100 associated with an adjacent table assembly 1000. In this way, adjacent table assemblies 1000 may be held in alignment with each other.

In the embodiments shown, the engaging formation 110 is pivotable about a substantially vertical pivoting axis 112 between its unextended position and its extended position. The engaging formation 110 is embodied by a hook formation 116 that pivots about a pivoting axis that is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis of a table leg 1200. Each connector arrangement 100 further comprises circular complementary engaging formations 120 with which the engaging formation 110 of a similar connector arrangement 100 associated with an adjacent table assembly 1000 can engage.

In a preferred embodiment as shown in the figures, the connector arrangement 100 comprises a body member 140 that is disposed at the junction between the table surface member 1100 and the table leg 1200, and is securable to each of these. However, in another embodiment (not shown), it is envisaged that the body member 140 of the connector arrangement 100 may comprise a table leg 1200. In this regard, it is envisaged that the body member 140 may be integrally formed with the table surface member 1100 or the table leg 1200.

In one embodiment, the body member is 140 removably securable to the table leg 1200 and/or the table surface member 1100 by a leg securing arrangement (not shown) and table top securing arrangement (not shown) respectively, however this need not be the case.

As shown in figure 11, the hook formation 116 is pivotable about its pivoting axis 112 to engage with the complementary engaging formations 120 of a connector arrangement 100 on an adjacent table assembly 1000.

In another preferred embodiment each connector arrangement 100 comprises a running formation 130, as shown in figure 20.

Each running formation 130 is configured and adapted for supporting the table assembly 1000 when the table assembly 1000 is on its side and being moved around, to protecting the table assembly from abrasion. The running formation 130 presents a running surface 132 which is preferably composed of a friction reducing and/or abrasion resisting material, such as steel, Teflon or nylon or some other hardy plastic.

The running formation 130 is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position in which it extends from the periphery of the table surface member 1100 (as shown in figure 22) to present an abrasion resistant and/or friction reducing surface on which the table 1000 is supportable on its side.

It is envisaged that the running formation 130 may move to its extended position when the engaging formation 110 is moved to its unextended position.

This is because, when the table assemblies 1000 are being moved around, the engaging formations 110 can be expected to have been moved to their unextended position after having been disengaged from the adjacent table assembly 1000.

It is further envisaged that a stabilising engaging formation 150 can be provided for the engaging formation 110 to engage within its unextended position, thereby preventing pivoting of the engaging formation when the table is being moved on the running formation 130, so that the weight of the table assembly can be supported at least partially on it.

A folding arrangement 200 is also associated with each table leg 1200 of the table assembly 1000, although this need not be the case. Each folding arrangement 200 comprises a table top portion 260 associated with, and preferably secured or securable to the table surface member 110, and a leg portion 270 that is associated with and preferably secured or securable to a table leg 1200. The table top portion 260 and leg portion 270 are pivotally moveable with respect to each other about a substantially horizontal pivot axis 265 between a supporting position (shown in figure 21) and a folded position (shown in figure 20). The table top portion 260 is preferably removably securable to the table surface member by a table top securing arrangement (not shown). The leg portion 270 is removably securable to the table leg 1200 by a leg securing arrangement (not shown).

In a preferred embodiment, the table top securing arrangement and leg securing arrangement of the folding arrangement coincide with the table leg securing arrangement and table top securing arrangement of the connector arrangement 100.

Each folding arrangement 200 allows its associated table leg 1200 to be folded between a supporting position in which the table leg extends substantially transversely from the table surface member, and a folded position in which the table leg 1200 is in a more compacted position relative the table surface member 1100 (and preferably aligned parallel to the underside of the planar table surface member 1100). The supporting position and the folded position of the folding arrangement 200 correspond to the supporting position and the folded position of the table legs 1200.

The folding arrangement further comprises a locking mechanism 210. The locking mechanism 210 is for locking the table leg 1200 in one of, or preferably both of its supporting position and its folded position. However in order to provide stability to the table assembly 10000, it is envisaged that the locking mechanism 210 will lock the table leg 1200 in at least its supporting position. As will be seen later in relation to the description of the associated table storage arrangement 2000, it is preferable that the table leg 1200 is also able to be locked in its folded position.

In the embodiments shown in figures2 and 3, the locking mechanism

210 comprises a locking pin 220 receivable within a slot 230. The locking pin and slot are associated with the table top portion 260 in the embodiments shown. The locking pin 220 engages with locking formations 250 on the leg portion 270 to lock the leg portion 270 in position relative to the table top portion 260 in either its standing position or its folded position.

It is envisaged that the locking pin 220 and slot 230 may alternatively be associated with the leg portion 270, and the locking formation associated with the table top portion 260.

It is envisaged that the locking pin 220 will be reciprocally moveable within the slot 230 between a locked position in which the table leg 1200 is not moveable into its folded position from its standing position, and an unlocked position in which the table leg is moveable into its folded position. Alternately, in another embodiment (not shown) the locking pin 220 can in addition and/or alternatively be moveable between a locked position in which the table leg 1200 is not moveable into its standing position from its folded position, and an unlocked position in which the table leg is moveable into its standing position from its folded position.

In a preferred embodiment (not shown), it is envisaged that the locking pin can be used to lock the table leg 1200 in its standing or folded position. Alternatively, different locking mechanisms could be used to lock the table leg in standing position and folded position, respectively.

In this way, a table assembly 1000 is provided that can be folded into a standing (and preferably free standing) configuration from a compacted configuration, and assembled adjacent to a similar table assembly 1000 so that the adjacent table assemblies 1000 are held snugly in alignment with each other, so that the configuration of the table assemblies 1000 does not change, for example by being bumped, thereby providing an aesthetically pleasing effect.

In order to provide for space saving, ease of handling and convenient storage of such table assemblies, a table storage arrangement 2000 is provided (as shown in figures 15-19) for storing table assemblies 1000 as described above. The table storage arrangement 2000 comprises a plurality of engaging formations 2100that extend horizontally from the spine member. Each engaging formation 2100 is for engaging with and supporting an underside of a table surface member 1100, and a lifting arrangement 2200. The lifting arrangement 2200 is configured and adapted for lifting at least one or more table assemblies 1000, and comprises a vertical support arrangement 2210 in the form of a spine member 2220 that extends from a base arrangement 2400, on which it is supported.. The base arrangement 2400 is mobile on a set of wheels 2410.

The lifting arrangement 2200 further comprises a force generating device (not shown) for moving the engaging formations between an upper position and a lower position. It will be appreciated that the force generating device could have a wide variety of configurations and operate on a wide variety of principles. For example, the force generating device could be one or more selected from a

β pulley arrangement;

e hydraulic piston arrangement;

o pneumatic piston arrangement;

· electrical winch arrangement;

worm gear arrangement;

o rack and pinion arrangement. The force generating device will be powered by a prime mover (not shown). It will be appreciated that the prime mover could operate on a wide variety of power sources. For example, the prime mover could be a motor, a pump, a pulley system or a lever system. The prime mover could be powered manually, by hydraulic pressure, by pneumatic pressure, by electricity, or by any other suitable means.

One force generating device could be associated and /or coupled to each prime mover, or one prime mover could be associated and/or coupled to a plurality of force generating devices.

Further, in an alternative embodiment one lifting arrangement 2200 could be associated with each engaging formation 2100, or one lifting arrangement 2200 could be associated with a plurality of engaging formations 2100, depending on the nature of the force generating device, and the power of the prime mover.

Each of the plurality of engaging formations 2100 is movable upwardly along the spine member 2220 between their upper position and their lower position by the lifting arrangement 2200.

Operationally, the table storage arrangement 2000 will operate to store a plurality of table assemblies 1000 as follows. Initially the engaging formations will be moved to their lower positions. In one embodiment shown in the figures, this will result in a plurality of engaging formations 2100 arranged vertically on top of each other along the spine member 2220. It is envisaged that the top most engaging formation 2100 will still be low enough to be inserted under the table surface member 1100 of a table assembly 1000.

The table storage arrangement 2000 will be wheel forward until the uppermost engaging formation is under the table surface member 1100 of the table assembly 1000. The lifting arrangement 2200 will then be used to lift the table assembly 1000 from the floor. Once the table legs 1200 are lifted off the floor, the folding arrangement 200 associated with each table leg 1200 is folded into its folded position, so that the table legs is lying parallel to the table surface member 1100 as shown by the arrows in figure 17.

The lifting arrangement is then used to lift the table assembly 1000 to its upper position. In its upper position, the folded table legs 1200 are lifted far above the upper surface of a table surface member 1100 when it is standing freely on the ground.

The next engaging formation 2100 can then be pushed under a subsequent free standing table assembly 1000, and the same process repeated to fold the table legs 1200 to their folded position. The subsequent table assembly 1000 is then lifted up in its folded position to a level just below the first table assembly.

This process can be repeated several times, depending on the number of engaging formations, the power of the prime mover, and the height of the vertical support arrangement.

Once a number of table assemblies have been processed in this manner, it is envisaged that the table storage arrangement 2000 can be moved along on its wheels 2410, and stored in a relatively compact space, such as a cupboard, or the like.

In order to set the table assemblies 1000 up again, this process is reversed.

Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to elements or integers having known equivalents, then such equivalents are included as if they were individually set forth.

Although the invention has been described by way of example and with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that modifications and/or improvements may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1 A connector arrangement suitable for connecting two tables to each other, the connector arrangement being associated with one of said tables, the tables comprising a table surface member configured for presenting a horizontal support surface and comprising

a) an engaging formation movable between

i) an unextended position, and

ii) an extended position in which the engaging formation is engageable with a complementary engaging formation of a similar connector arrangement associated with an adjacent table to hold the adjacent table in alignment with said associated table;

iii) wherein the connector arrangement is associated with a table leg.

2 A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein the engaging formation is pivotable about a pivoting axis between its unextended position and its extended position.

3 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the connector arrangement comprises complementary engaging formations for engaging with the engaging formation of a similar connector arrangement associated with an adjacent table.

4 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connector formation comprises table leg connecting formations configured for connection to a table leg.

5 A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 4, wherein the table leg connecting formations are configured for removable connection to a table leg.

6 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the connector arrangement comprises a table leg.

7 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the engaging formation in its unextended position is configured and adapted not to extend from the table surface member.

8 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the pivoting axis is substantially vertically oriented.

9 A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 8, wherein the pivoting axis is substantially coaxial with a longitudinal axis of a table leg.

10 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the engaging formation comprises a hook formation. 11 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the connector arrangement is configured for supporting the associated table on its side.

12 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the engaging formation is configured to engage in a complementary manner with a similar engaging formation on an adjacent table.

13 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the connector arrangement comprises a running formation movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which it extends from a periphery of the table surface member to present a running surface on which the table is supportable on its side.

14 A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 13, wherein the running formation presents a running surface on which the table is movable when the table is on its side to protect the sides of the table from abrasion.

15 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 14, wherein the running surface is comprised of a relatively frictionless and/or abrasion resistant material.

16 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the connector arrangement comprises a body member.

17 A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 16, wherein the body member is securable to one or more selected from the table leg and the table surface member.

18 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 17, wherein the connector arrangement comprises a folding arrangement by which the associated table leg can be folded between a supporting position and a folded position.

19 A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 18, wherein the folding arrangement allows the table leg to fold between a standing position in which the table leg extends substantially transversely from the table surface member, and a folded position in which the table leg is in a more compacted position relative the table surface member.

0 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 19, wherein the folding arrangement comprises a locking arrangement by which the table leg can be locked in one or more selected from its supporting position and its folded position. 21 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 20, wherein the running formation is configured to move to its extended position as the table leg moves to its folded position.

22 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the folding arrangement comprises

b) a leg portion that is secured or securable with the associated table leg to move with it relative to the table surface member.

23 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the folding arrangement comprises a securing arrangement for securing the folding arrangement to a planar table surface member.

24 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein the folding arrangement comprises a leg securing arrangement for securing the folding arrangement to a table leg.

25 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the locking arrangement comprises a locking pin receivable within a slot.

26 A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 25, wherein the slot is defined by the body member.

27 A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 26, wherein the slot is defined by one or more selected from the leg portion and table top portion.

28 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein when the table leg is in its folded position, the locking pin is movable in said slot between

a) a locked position in which the table leg is not movable into its standing position, and

b) an unlocked position in which the table leg is movable into its standing position.

29 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein when the table leg is in its standing position, the locking pin is movable in said slot between

a) a locked position in which the table leg is not movable into its folded position, and

b) an unlocked position in which the table leg is movable into its folded position.

30 A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the locking pin interacts with one or more selected from the table top portion and the leg portion to lock relative movement between the leg portion and the table top portion.

A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein the one or more selected from the table top portion and the leg portion comprises locking pin engaging formations for engaging with the locking pin. A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 28 to 31, wherein the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its folded position.

A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 32, wherein the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its folded position.

A connector arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 28 to 31, wherein the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its unfolded position.

A connector arrangement as claimed in claim 34, wherein the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its unfolded position.

A folding arrangement, the folding arrangement being associated with at least one or more table leg and a table surface member in a table assembly, the folding arrangement comprising

c) wherein the table top portion and the leg portion are movable relative each other so that the table leg can be pivoted with respect to the table surface member between

d) a standing position in which the table leg extends from the table surface member in a position on which the table assembly can be supported operationally, and

e) a folded position in which the table leg is in a more compacted position relative the table surface member; and f) a locking mechanism by which the table leg can be locked in one or more selected from its supporting position and its folded position.

37 A folding arrangement as claimed in claim 36, wherein the folding arrangement comprises one or more table legs.

38 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 37, wherein the folding arrangement comprises a securing arrangement for securing the folding arrangement to a planar table surface member.

39 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the folding arrangement comprises a leg securing arrangement for securing the folding arrangement to a table leg.

40 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 39, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable within a slot.

41 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 40, wherein when the table leg is in its folded position, the locking pin is movable in said slot between

42 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 41, wherein when the table leg is in its standing position, the locking pin is movable in said slot between

43 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the locking pin interacts with one or more selected from the table top portion and the leg portion to lock relative movement between the leg portion and the table top portion.

44 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 40 to 43, wherein the one or more selected from the table top portion and the leg portion comprises locking pin engaging formations for engaging with the locking pin.

45 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 41 to 44, wherein the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its folded position. 46 A folding arrangement as claimed in claim 45, wherein the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its folded position.

47 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 41 to 44, wherein the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its unfolded position.

48 A folding arrangement as claimed in claim 47, wherein the position of the locking pin in its unlocked position when the table leg is in its standing position is similar to the position of the locking pin in its locked position when the table leg is in its unfolded position.

49 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 48, wherein the folding arrangement comprises a connector arrangement for connecting two tables to each other.

50 A folding arrangement as claimed in claim 49, wherein the connector arrangement comprises an engaging formation movable between

a) an unextended position, and

b) an extended position in which the engaging formation is engageable with a complementary engaging formation of a similar connector arrangement associated with an adjacent table to hold the adjacent table in alignment with said associated table.

51 A folding arrangement as claimed in claim 50, wherein the engaging formation is pivotable about a pivoting axis between its unextended position and its extended position.

52 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 50 to 51, wherein the folding arrangement comprises complementary engaging formations for engaging with the engaging formation of a similar connector arrangement associated with an adjacent table.

53 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 52, wherein the folding arrangement is associated with a table leg.

54 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 53, wherein the connector formation is associated with each table leg.

55 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 54, wherein the folding arrangement comprises table leg connecting formations for connecting to a table leg. 56 A folding arrangement as claimed in claim 55, wherein the table leg connecting formations are configured for removably connecting to a table leg,

57 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 49 to 56, wherein the connector arrangement comprises a table leg.

58 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 50 to 57, wherein the engaging formation in its unextended position is configured and adapted not to extend from the table surface member.

59 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 51 to 58, wherein the pivoting axis is substantially vertically oriented.

60 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claim 59, wherein the pivoting axis is substantially coaxial with a longitudinal axis of a table leg.

61 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 50 to 60, wherein the engaging formation comprises a hook formation.

62 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 61, wherein the folding arrangement is configured for supporting the associated table on its side.

63 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 62, wherein the folding arrangement comprises a running formation movable between a retracted position and an extended position in which it extends from a periphery of the table surface to present a running surface on which the table is supportable on its side.

64 A folding arrangement as claimed in claim 63, wherein the running formation presents a running surface on which the table is movable when the table is on its side to protect the sides of the table from abrasion.

65 A folding arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 63 to 64, wherein the running surface is comprised of a relatively frictionless and/or abrasion resistant material.

66 A table assembly, said table assembly comprising

a) a table surface member configured for presenting a substantially horizontal surface in operation;

b) at least or more table legs; and

c) one or more selected from

i) a connector arrangement as claimed in any of claims 1 to 35; and ii) a folding arrangement as claimed in any of claims 36 to 65.

67 A table storage arrangement for storing one or more table assemblies, said table storage arrangement comprising a) at least one or more engaging formations for engaging with and supporting an underside of a table surface member, the engaging formations movable between an upper position and a lower position;

b) at least one or more lifting arrangement configured and adapted for lifting at least one or more engaging formations between their upper position and their lower position.

68 A table storage arrangement as claimed in claim 67, wherein an engaging formation is associated with each lifting arrangement.

69 A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 68, wherein each lifting arrangement comprises a force generating device.

70 A table storage arrangement as claimed in claim 69, wherein at least one or more of the lifting arrangements is associated with a force generating device.

71 A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 69 to 70, wherein each lifting arrangement comprises its own force generating device.

72 A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 69 to 71, wherein the force generating device comprises one or more selected from a

a) pulley arrangement;

b) hydraulic piston arrangement;

c) pneumatic piston arrangement;

d) electrical winch arrangement;

e) worm gear arrangement;

f) rack and pinion arrangement.

73 A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 69 to 72, wherein the force generating device is manually operable.

74 A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 69 to 72, wherein the force generating device comprises a prime mover.

75 A table storage arrangement as claimed in claim 74, wherein the prime mover is an electrical motor.

76 A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 75, wherein the table storage arrangement comprises a base arrangement.

77 A table storage arrangement as claimed in claim 76, wherein the base arrangement comprises a set of wheels on which the base arrangement is movable.

78 A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 76 to 77, wherein the lifting arrangement is supported on the base arrangement.

79 A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 78, wherein the lifting arrangement comprises a vertical support arrangement. A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 79, wherein the vertical support arrangement comprises a vertically aligned spine member. A table storage arrangement as claimed in claim 80, wherein a plurality of engaging formations extend horizontally from the spine member.

A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 80 to 81, wherein each of the plurality of engaging formations is movable upwardly along the spine member.

A table storage arrangement as claimed in claim 82, wherein the each of the plurality of engaging formations is movable upwardly along the spine member by the force lifting arrangement.

A table storage arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 67 to 83, wherein a) the table storage arrangement is configured for storing a plurality of table assemblies that comprise a table surface member and table legs foldable between a standing position in which the table leg extends from the table surface member, and a folded position in which the table leg is in a more compacted position relative the table surface member; and

b) wherein the table storage arrangement is configured and adapted for operationally lifting an initial table assembly up, and supporting the table assembly off the ground while its legs are folded to their folded position, and then further lifting the table assembly into a storage position, so that a subsequent table assembly can be inserted under the initial table assembly for being lifted up and having its legs folded into a folded position for storage under the initial table assembly.

A method of storing table assemblies that comprise a table surface member and table legs foldable between a standing position in which the table leg extends substantially transversely from the table surface member, and a folded position in which the table leg is in a more compacted position relative the table surface member, said method comprising the steps of

a) lifting an initial table assembly,

b) folding the legs of the initial table assembly into a folded position so that the initial table assembly is in a folded state;

c) further lifting the initial table assembly in its folded state into a storage position;

d) lifting a subsequent table assembly

e) folding the legs of the subsequent table assembly into a folded position so that the subsequent table assembly is in a folded state; further lifting the subsequent table assembly in its folded state storage position below the initial table assembly.