TABLE WITH MOLDED PLASTIC TOP

专利摘要:
TABLE WITH MOLDED PLASTIC TOP. The present invention relates to a table dimensioned and configured to fit with an adjacent table to reduce the height of a plurality of tables stacked in an embedded configuration. The table top may include an upper surface, a side wall and a receiving portion at least partially arranged on the upper surface and the side wall. The receiving portion can be sized and configured to receive a coupling portion from an adjacent table, when the tables are arranged in an embedded configuration. The table top can also include a plurality of reinforcement elements arranged in the bottom portion of the table top dimensioned and configured to support the receiving portion. For example, the reinforcing elements may include an internal surface dimensioned and configured to support an internal surface of the receiving portion.
公开号:BR112013027522B1
申请号:R112013027522-7
申请日:2012-04-25
公开日:2020-11-24
发明作者:Wendell Peery；Neil Watson
申请人:Lifetime Products, Inc.；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

Cross Referendum for Related Orders
This application claims the priority and benefits of US provisional patent application serial number 61 / 478,786, entitled "Mesa", filed on April 25, 2011; American provisional patent application serial number 61 / 478,879, entitled "Tables and chairs", filed on April 25, 2011; the application for registration of American industrial design, serial number 29 / 390,471, entitled "Part of a table", filed on April 25, 2011; American provisional patent application serial number 61 / 531,081, entitled "Mesa", filed on September 5, 2011; and US provisional patent application serial number 61 / 543,277, entitled "Bureau" filed on October 4, 2011; each of these requests is incorporated here as a reference in Integra. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of invention
The present invention relates generally to structures, including at least a constructed part of plastic, and particularly furniture, such as tables and chairs, which may include molded plastic components. Related art description Related art description
Many different types of tables are well known and used for different and different purposes. For example, conventional tables may include legs that are hingedly attached to the table top, the legs being displaced between a position of use, in which the legs extend away from the table top, and a position of storage, in which the legs are folded against the table top. Conventional tables with relatively large table tops and folding legs are often referred to as "banquet tables" and these tables are often used in meeting rooms, banquet halls, convention centers, hotels, colleges, churches, and other places where large groups of people come together. Tables of this type can be positioned in a variety of different configurations and used in different arrangements. When banquet tables are not in use, the table legs can be moved to the storage position and the tables can be more easily transported and stored.
Because most banquet tables are between 1,828 and 3,048 meters long and between 0,9144 and 1,219 meters wide, the storage area required for such tables is quite large, even with the legs in the folded position. This large storage area can be a problem for companies or places that use them, such as hotels, schools and churches, due to the large number of these tables that may have to be stored.
Conventional tables often include table tops made of materials such as wood, chipboard or metal. Table tops made of wood, chipboard or metal, however, are often relatively heavy and this can cause tables to become awkward or difficult to transport. Table tops made of wood or metal are also relatively expensive and these types of table tops should generally be treated or finished before use. For example, table tops made of wood should generally be sanded and painted, and metal table tops should be shaped into the desired shape and painted. Additionally, these wooden and metal table tops are relatively heavy, which can increase the cost of shipping and transporting the tables. The weight of the table top can make tables more difficult to transport and store.
To reduce the weight of conventional tables, table tops can be made of relatively light materials, such as plastic. Disadvantageously, these table tops made of lightweight materials may require reinforcement elements or other structural handles, such as armories, staples, supports and the like to strengthen the table top. While, these additional handles can increase the strength of the table top, the added handles can also increase the weight of the table. These complementary handles can result in higher production costs and require more time to assemble the table. In addition, extra fasteners may be required to assemble and connect these handles to the table, which may require more time and labor during the manufacturing process. Additional handles and fasteners can also increase the cost of the table and make the table more difficult to manufacture. In addition, these handles and additional fastening elements may have sharp edges that can hurt the user's legs or blisters.
Conventional tables can include a frame that is attached to the table top. The frame can include a pair of side rails that are attached to the sides of the table top using fasteners. Several fastening elements may be necessary to firmly connect the frame to the table top and transmit forces applied to the table top for the frame. Undesirably, when a large load or force is applied to some known tables, the frame may bend, deform or disconnect from the table top. In addition, the fasteners used to connect the frame to the table top can come loose or separate from the table top. The fastening elements can also damage and tear the table top if this load or force is excessive. In addition, the frames or fasteners of some known tables can break in some circumstances.
The table tops of some known tables can undesirably bend or deform if a relatively large load or force is applied to a portion of the table top. For example, if a load or force is applied to an external portion of a conventional table top, this portion of the table top may undesirably move or bend. In particular, that portion of the table top can flex downwards when a load or force is applied to the top surface of the table top.
The large size of conventional banquet tables may require a large amount of storage space from manufacturers, merchants and consumers. This large amount of storage space can be a problem, especially for manufacturers, merchants and consumers in need. to store, transporter and / or exhibit a large number of tables. BRIEF SUMMARY
Therefore, there is a need for a table that reduces or eliminates the disadvantages and problems described above.
An aspect and table that may include a table top and one or more legs dimensioned and configured to support the table top on a surface, such as the floor or floor. The table can also include a frame and the legs can be connected to the frame. The legs can be moved in relation to the table top, between a retracted or storage position and an extended or used position. In particular, the legs can be articulated between a retracted position, in which the legs are arranged, at least, in proximity to a lower surface of the table top and an extended position, in which the legs extend out of the table top. . If desired, the legs can at least partially touch or touch the bottom surface of the table top when the legs are in the retracted position. In addition, the bottom surface of the table top may include one or more recesses sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the legs when the legs are in the retracted position. This can advantageously reduce the amount of space required to store and / or transport the table.
Another aspect is a table that can be relatively light, allowing the table to be more easily transported and moved. For example, the table may include a light table top that can reduce the total weight of the table. The table can also be built with a limited number of handles or components, which can allow the weight of the table to be reduced. In addition, a limited number of fastening elements may be required to assemble the table, which can also reduce the weight of the table. The limited number of fastening elements can also allow the table to be assembled more quickly and easily.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a table top constructed of plastic. For example, the table top can be constructed of molded plastic using blow molding, injection molding, rotary molding or other suitable molding processes. The molded plastic table top can provide a relatively rigid, high strength frame that is capable of withstanding repeated use and wear. The molded plastic table top can also be manufactured relatively quickly, easily and efficiently. In addition, the molded plastic table top can be easily molded to the desired dimensions and shapes, such as for a utility table, game table, personal table and the like. The molded plastic table top can be relatively light since, for example, it can include a hollow internal portion formed during the molding process. The molded plastic table top can also include two opposite walls, which can be spaced apart by a generally constant and / or predetermined distance, and which can help to increase the strength and stiffness of the table top. Molded plastic table top can be generally weather resistant and insensitive to temperature. In addition, molded plastic table tops will not rust, corrode, or deteriorate for an extended period of time, which can help to create a long-lasting table.
Yet another aspect is a table that can be constructed of molded plastic and one or more features can be integrally formed during the molding process as part of a unit, built on a single handle. For example, the molded plastic table top can include one or more depressions (also known as "tack-offs") and depressions can be designed to increase the strength of the table top and / or interconnect the blown walls. Depressions can also be dimensioned and configured to create reinforcement with particular characteristics and qualities, such as a table top with strength, uniform stiffness and / or structural integrity. The molded plastic table top may also include other features, such as structures that increase the strength, stiffness and / or the torsion resistance of at least a portion of the table top.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include components that can be manufactured quickly and easily. For example, the legs and / or side members of the frame can be relatively easy to manufacture. Furthermore, the legs and / or side members of the frame can be be quickly and easily attached to the table, which can reduce manufacturing costs. The table can also be built with few handles and a limited amount of fastening elements may be necessary, which can allow the table to be quickly and easily assembled by the manufacturer, dealer and / or consumer.
Another aspect is a table that can facilitate the stacking of a plurality of tables. Advantageously, stacked tables can be arranged in an alignment configuration. For example, a table can be easily aligned with an adjacent table, which can facilitate the transport, storage and / or display of several tables. Significantly, the aligned tables can be arranged vertically, horizontally, or at suitable angles, depending, for example, on whether the tables will be transported, stored or displayed. If desired, stacked tables can be block or have a tendency to stick together. For example, an interference or friction fit between adjacent stacked tables tends to keep the tables in a stacked configuration. If tables are likely to stick together, this can help to reduce damage to tables during transport, storage and / or display.
Yet another aspect is a table that can be docked with an adjacent table to reduce space. Significantly, dockable tables can allow tables to be stored in a smaller area, which can substantially reduce transport and storage costs. Nesting tables can also allow more tables to be stored in the same area compared to conventional tables that do not fit. In addition, nesting tables help protect tables from damage. For example, because an upper portion of a table can be arranged. Inside a lower portion of an adjacent table, which can help prevent the table from being damaged. Nestable tables can also have table tops of the same size or substantially the same size as those of conventional tables, which may indicate that the tables have similar appearances and characteristics, such as forpa, structural integrity, among others. Nestable tables can also generally have the same size as a conventional table, but nestable tables significantly allow more tables to be arranged on a forklift or shipping container and / or allow the same number of tables to be arranged on significantly less space.
Yet another aspect is a table that can be fitted with an adjacent table in a stacked configuration. Advantageously, nestable tables have a significantly reduced height compared to conventional tables that do not fit together. For example, known tables may have a table top with a height of about 2.125 inches (5.39 cm), so thirty of these conventional stacked tables would have a height of at least 63, 75 inches (1.62 m) ). An exemplary embodiment of an embedded table may have a table top with a thickness of about 2.0 inches (5.0 cm), but it can overlap with an adjacent table by about 0.25 inch (0.63 cm) ), so the height of the docked table can only be about 1.75 inches (4.45 cm) when docked with another table. Thus, the height of thirty docked tables can only be about 52.75 inches (1.34 m) because the adjacent tables can fit together. In particular, because a portion of a table can be arranged inside or overlap with an adjacent table in the nesting configuration, this may allow the total height of the nesting tables to decrease. Therefore, in this example configuration, the height of the table in the docked configuration can only be about 1.75 inches (4.45 cm). Consequently, nestable tables have a height reduction of between 0.375 and 0.25 inch (0.95 and 0.63 cm) per stacked table compared to previously known tables. This can allow more tables to be arranged in a stacked configuration, which can significantly increase the number of tables that can be stacked on a bench or shelf, or arranged in a container or truck.
Yet another aspect is a table that can be attached together with an adjacent table to reduce the total height of the stacked tables. For example, a conventional table may have a blow-molded table top with a height of approximately 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) and a frame with a height of about (1.625) inches (4.13 cm). The height of the frame for this type of conventional table is more than eighty percent (80%) of the height of the table top to create a table with the necessary strength and rigidity. The frame for this type of conventional table can have a rectangular cross-sectional configuration, which can help to create a beam-like frame with two opposite walls that are separated by a generally constant distance. It is known that a decrease in the height of the frame can result in a decrease in the resistance of the table. It is also known that a decrease in the width of the frame can allow an undesirable twist or bend to occur on the table. In contrast to these known tables, nestable tables generally have the same height and appearance as a conventional table and generally the same strength and structural integrity of a conventional table, but the tables can fit together. The similar size and dimension of the tables can allow consumers to immediately deduce that the nesting tables generally have the same strength, rigidity, and torsion resistance as conventional tables. However, stackable tables significantly decrease the height of two or more stacked tables. Because nesting tables can have a significant decrease in height in the nesting configuration, this can result in considerable space savings, which can be very important for the manufacturer during the manufacturing and transportation process; for the merchant, regarding the storage or display of several tables; and / or for the consumer to buy, transporter or store more than one table.
Another aspect is a table that can be dimensioned and configured to be fitted so that the height of the nestable tables is reduced by more than ten percent (10%). For example, the height of a single table can be about 2.0 inches (5.08 cm). When the table is attached to another table, the height of the table can be about 1.75 inches (4.45 cm), because one part of the table is attached to the other. In this mode, the nesting tables result in a decrease in the height of each stacked table of about 0.25 inches (0.63 cm). Therefore, the height of a table in the stacked configuration can be approximately twelve and a half percent (12.5%) less than in the non-stacked configuration. Advantageously, this can allow tables to be efficiently stored, transported and displayed, because less space may be required. In another example, a standard pallet or shipping configuration may include twenty-one (21) conventional tables, but tables with these fitting features disclosed here may allow twenty seven (27) or twenty nine (29) to be placed on a standard pallet or in a typical shipping configuration. If twenty-seven tables are placed on a pallet or in a standard shipping configuration, instead of twenty-one tables, then about twenty-eight percent (28%) more tables can be stored, transported or displayed. If twenty-nine tables, instead of twenty-one tables are placed on a pallet or in a standard shipping configuration, a thirty-eight percent (38%) increase in the number of tables can be achieved. This can advantageously result in significant savings and cost advantages, because, for example, considerably more tables can be stored, transported or displayed in the same area; or the same number of tables can be stored, transported or displayed in an area that is at least twenty-five percent (25%) less. When large volumes of tables are transported, as in a standard or high-capacity shipping container, this can result in advantages and savings.
And yet one aspect, a table that can be docked with an adjacent table, so that the height of a docked table is reduced by approximately twenty percent (20%). For example, the height of a conventional blow molded plastic table top is typically 2.0 inches (5.08 cm) or more. The height of the table top of an embedded table can be about 2.0 inches (5.0 cm), when it is not fitted with another table, but the height of the table can only be between about 1.5 and 1 , 75 inches (3.81 and 4.45 cm) when docked with another table. This can result in a significant reduction in height between twelve and a half percent (12.5%) and twenty-five percent (25%), when two or more tables are docked. In particular, if the dockable tables are lowered in height by approximately twenty percent (20%), then the tables can be about 1.6 inches (4 cm) high in the docked configuration. In addition, the embedded table has a weight that is less than the weight of conventional tables. The docked table, therefore, can contribute less weight when stacked or docked with one or more tables and this can allow a larger number of docked tables to be stacked without additional weight.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a receiving portion, such as a groove, channel, or a recessed portion in an upper portion of the table top sized and configured to receive a portion of a portion of an adjacent table to facilitate fitting the tables. For example, the receiving portion can be arranged on an upper surface and / or outer perimeter of the table top. In more detail, the receiving portion may have a generally L-shaped configuration, with a bottom surface generally parallel to the top surface of the table top and a side wall generally perpendicular to the top surface of the table top. The portion of an adjacent table can be arranged in the receiving portion to allow the tables to be fitted together. In particular, a portion of the reinforcement, such as a projection or flange and / or a portion of the table top, such as an edge or a corner, can be arranged in the receiving portion. In greater detail, a portion of the side walls of the frame can be arranged in the receiving portion along the sides of an adjacent, stacked table. A lower portion of an edge and / or the corners of the table top can also be arranged in the receiving portion of the adjacent, stacked table.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a frame sized and configured to facilitate stacking the tables. For example, the frame may include an upper portion generally aligned with the lower portion of the table top. The upper portion of the frame may be arranged in a frame of the receiving portion in the lower portion of the table top and this may help to maintain the frame in the desired position. The frame may also include a smaller portion sized and configured to make contact with an upper portion of an adjacent stacked table. The frame may further include a coupling portion dimensioned and configured to be arranged in the receiving portion of an adjacent nestable table. The coupling portion may include a projection or downwardly extending flange and configured to fit within the receiving portion, such as a groove or notch in the adjacent nestable table. Advantageously, the frame can directly support at least a part of the weight and / or the force applied to the tables in the fitted configuration, which can help to prevent damage to the tables. For example, when the tables are stacked in a horizontal configuration, the framing of a table can contact the adjacent table in a way that allows the stacked tables to support a significant amount of weight without causing damage to the tables. This can allow ten, twenty, thirty or more tables to be arranged in a stacked configuration without damaging any of the tables. In addition, the frame coupling portion is arranged in a receiving portion of an adjacent table, which can facilitate stacking, storage and / or transportation of the tables, as it can help to keep the tables in the stacked configuration and ensure that the weight and correctly and / or evenly distributed.
Yet another aspect is a table that can be sized and configured to fit with an adjacent stacked table, where a load or weight is supported on several different areas, locations and / or surfaces. Advantageously, the various contact areas can allow the stresses and forces to be arranged over a larger area and can help to prevent damage to the tables. For example, the table may include one or more contact areas dimensioned and configured to contact the upper surface of the adjacent table top. In more detail, the side frames of the frame may include a lower portion, such as a flat contact surface or load-bearing surfaces, generally arranged parallel to an upper surface of the table top. In addition, the side rails of the frame may include a coupling portion, such as a projection or downward-extending flange, dimensioned and configured to be arranged in a receiving portion of the adjacent stacked table. The lower portion of the flange may contact a lower surface of the receiving portion, which may be another load-bearing surface. In addition, the table may include other portions, such as corners or edges sized and configured to be arranged in the receiving portion of the adjacent stacked table. For example, the corners and / or edges may include a pressing edge that contacts the bottom surface of the receiving portion, which may also be load-bearing surfaces. When two or more tables are fitted together, the various contact areas can facilitate stacking the tables without damaging or damaging the tables.
Another aspect is a table that can include a table with one or more portions formed of compression molded plastic. For example, a portion of the corners and / or edge can be molded by compression during the blow molding process. Advantageously, the compression molded corners and / or edge can help to create stronger, more rigid and / or more impact resistant structures, which can increase the durability and usefulness of the table. Significantly, compression molding can allow a portion of the corners and / or edge to be relatively thin, because there is little or no gap or space between the walls of the compression molded plastic structure. The compression molded corners and / or edges can also be sized and configured to fit within a receiving portion of an adjacent stacked table, which can facilitate stacking and nesting of the tables. Compression-shaped portions can also be sized and configured to contact a portion of the frame. For example, a compression molded portion can be arranged along at least a portion of the edge and side rail of the frame can contact or touch the compression molded portion, which can help to position and hold the frame in position desired.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a pressing edge. For example, if the table top is constructed of blow-molded plastic, the compression edge can be formed by the outer wall being folded over itself, so that the compression edge has a thickness approximately equal to twice the thickness of the external wall. The pressing edge can be arranged over all or part of the perimeter of the table top, such as the edges or corners. Advantageously, the compression edge can help to provide greater strength, structural integrity and / or impact resistance. The pressing edge can also be dimensioned and configured to be at least partially arranged on the receiving portion of an adjacent nestable table.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a pressing edge with different sizes. For example, the corners of the table top may include a compression edge that is different in size from the compression edge that extends along the sides and / or ends of the table top. In particular, the table top may include a downward extending edge and the corners may include a pressing edge which is generally of a height equal to or greater than most of the edge height. The corners can also include a pressing edge with a height generally or at least substantially equal to the height of the edge. The sides of the table top may include a compression edge smaller than the compression edge at the corners. For example, the sides of the table top can include a pressing edge with a height that is generally equal to or less than the height of the edge. The height of the compression edge arranged along the sides and / or the ends of the table top can also be significantly less than the height of the edge. In an exemplary embodiment, the compression edge arranged on the sides of the table top can be between 0.125 inch (0.32 cm) and about 0.25 inch (0.63 cm) in height and the corners can include a compression edge with a height between 0.25 inch (0.63 cm) and about 0.5 inch (1.27 cm). The pressing edge along the ends of the table top can be between 0.125 inch (0.32 cm) and about 0.5 inch (1.27 cm) high. Thus, the compression edge of the corners and / or ends of the table top can be two or more times greater than the compression edge along the sides. The compression edges at the corners can be much larger, if desired, such as three, four, five or more times the edge compression height along the sides and / or the ends.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include seaweed arranged at one or both ends of the table top. The seaweed can consist of a cavity or opening in the edge that extends below a table top and the seaweed can be integrally formed with the table top as part of a unit, built into a single handle. Preferably, the seaweed is sized and configured to facilitate table movement and transport. In addition, seaweed can assist in separating tables when they are in a stacked configuration. The table top may further include recesses or openings that may allow a portion of the frame to be arranged on the sides of the table top. For example, the sides of the table top may include openings that allow at least a portion of the frame to be exposed. Therefore, the ends of the table may include openings in the edge that form the algae and openings in the sides that allow a portion of the frame to be exposed. Other portions of the frame can be inserted and / or arranged internally in an external perimeter of the table top, which can help protect the frame from being damaged.
Another aspect is a table that can include a frame with a first portion arranged along one side of the table top and a second portion arranged along a second side of the table top. In particular, the frame can include a first side rail arranged along a first side of the table top and a second side rail arranged along a second side of the table top. The side rails can extend over the length and / or width of the table top and the side rails can help support the table top and / or facilitate the connection of the legs to the table top. Each side rail can include a body, and the body can be elongated to have one or more mating surfaces and can be constructed of relatively strong materials, such as metal. In more detail, the body of the side rails can be arranged at least close to an edge extending from the table top and the body of the side rails can be arranged vertically in relation to the table top. The side rails can also include an upper portion and a lower portion. For example, the upper portion of the side rail may include a flange that extends internally at an angle, such as a right angle to the body. The upper portion of the side rail can also include a second flange, such as an inner flange that can extend downwards. This inner flange can be arranged at least close to the end of the upper portion of the side rail and can be generally arranged parallel to the side rail body. The lower portion of the side rail may include a flange that extends externally to an external portion of the table top. The lower portion may also include a downwardly extending portion, such as a flange or projection, which may be arranged perpendicular to the lower portion of the side rail. If desired, the downwardly extending portion may be twice as thick in comparison to other portions of reinforcement. In particular, the downwardly extending portion can be folded or curved over itself and includes an upwardly extending portion sized and configured to contact a table top portion, such as a bottom surface of the extending edge down.
Yet another aspect is a table that may include a table top with one or more receiving portions sized and configured to receive a portion of the receiving portion of the dimensioned frame and configured to receive an upper portion of the side rail of the frame. In addition, the table top may include a side wall dimensioned and configured to contact the body of the side rail and an edge dimensioned and configured to contact the lower portion of the side rail. If desired, an inner edge wall may form at least a portion of the side wall and a lower edge portion may contact the lower reinforcement portion. Advantageously, the table top can be dimensioned and configured to help position and / or keep the side rail in the desired position. In addition, the table top can be sized and configured to help prevent the side rail from bending, forcing or moving, helping to create a stronger and more resistant table.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a frame with one or more sections generally in the form of L or U. For example, the side rails of the frame may include an upper portion with a generally U-shape configuration. inverted and a lower portion with a generally U-shaped configuration. The upper portion of the frame can be sized and configured to be arranged in a portion receiving the frame in a portion below or below the table top. The lower portion of the frame can be dimensioned and configured to contact an adjacent table in a stacked fitted configuration.
In particular, the lower portion of the frame may include a lower surface dimensioned and configured to contact an upper surface of the adjacent table in the fitted configuration. The lower portion of the frame may still include a coupling portion dimensioned and configured in a receiving portion of an adjacent table in the fitted configuration.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a frame that facilitates the fitting and stacking of a plurality of tables. The frame can also help to support an edge that extends below the table top. For example, the frame can support an inner surface, the bottom surface and / or the outer edge portion. In addition, the frame can provide several contact areas, such as a flat coupling surface and a plug or flange portion, which can allow a load to be distributed over several areas when several tables are attached together. This can allow more tables to be arranged in a stacked configuration and / or help prevent damage to the tables.
Another aspect is a table that can include a frame with an internally arranged portion and an externally arranged portion. For example, the frame may include a first portion disposed towards an internal portion of the table top, and a second portion disposed inwardly may be at least partially or substantially internally arranged on an edge extending below the table top, while the portion disposed externally can contact and / or close at least one portion of the edge.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a frame and a portion of the frame can be arranged along an edge or perimeter of the table top. For example, the table top can include an edge with an opening and an external portion of the frame can be arranged in the opening, or at least close to it. Advantageously, this can allow a portion of the frame to be exposed, and the exposed portion of the frame can indicate to consumers that the table has great strength, and is strong and durable. The exposed portion of the frame can generally be aligned and / or internally spaced from an external perimeter of the table top. The exposed portion of the frame can also generally be aligned with a lower portion of the table, as well as a lower surface of the corners, edge and / or ends. In more detail, an opening can be arranged on the edge along the sides of the table top and the exposed portion of the frame can be arranged and / or generally aligned with the openings. The lower portion of the frame can be aligned with a lower portion of the table top or it could extend outwardly more than configuration, the lower portion of the frame can form the lower portion of the table top. The exposed frame can also create a table with better aesthetics and / or style. For example, the exposed frame can provide a color contrast with the table top. That is, the table top can have one or more colors and the frame can have one or more different colors to create a table with a stylized appearance or an aesthetically pleasing design.
Yet another additional aspect is a table that can include a table top with openings to allow a portion of the frame to be exposed and / or arranged near a perimeter of the table top. For example, the table top may include one or more openings that allow at least a portion of the frame to be exposed and arranged at least close to the perimeter of the table top. These openings may extend at least to the most of the length of the table top. The table top can also include one or more openings for a seaweed at the ends of the table top. The openings in the sides of the table top are preferably much larger than the openings in the ends of the table top, by a factor as five, ten, twenty or more times the length of the opening for the seaweed.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a frame that comes into contact, couples and / or supports an edge and / or the outer perimeter of the table top. Advantageously, if the frame is arranged along the outer edges of the table top, then the frame can provide greater support for the edges or ends of the table top. In addition, if a portion of the frame is arranged below or close to the edge, then the frame can help prevent the table top from being damaged. For example, the frame can absorb impacts or dents, which could otherwise damage the table top.
Yet another additional aspect is a table that can include a frame with a coupling portion, such as a protuberance or flange, which facilitates the fitting and stacking of the tables. The protrusion can generally be aligned and / or disposed close to the lower portion of the rim, as well as a pressing edge. Because the compression and protrusion edge may have double wall thicknesses, this can help prevent the table from being damaged. In more detail, the protrusion can be folded or curved over itself, so that it includes two parallel and adjacent walls and a rounded end. The pressing edge may include an inner wall and an outer wall that are preferably parallel and adjacent. If desired, the compression and protrusion edges may include lower surfaces that are generally aligned and arranged on the same piano. Advantageously, the double wall thicknesses of frame and edge can help to prevent the table top from being damaged. In addition, the thickness of the double wall can promote the stacking and fitting of the tables, because, for example, it can allow a strong, thin, resilient and / or damage-resistant portion of a table to be arranged in the receiving portion of a table adjacent.
Another aspect is a frame for a table that may be less likely to bend or deform undesirably. For example, reinforcement may have a configuration that resists twisting or rotation when the load or ram is applied to reinforcement. In addition, armature can provide more balance on the table when a load or ram is applied. For example, reinforcement could include several curves or angles, as well as a plurality of 90 ° or right angles. Advantageously, the various angles can help to increase the reinforcement strength, resistance to torsion or rotation when the load or force is applied to the reinforcement, and / or provide more balance. The reinforcement could also include one or more portions that are folded or curved over themselves at an angle of 180 °, so that the portions of the reinforcement are twice as thick. This can also help to increase the reinforcement strength, resistance to torsion or rotation when the load or force is applied to the reinforcement and / or provide more balance.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a frame, at least partially arranged in one or more receiving portions on the table top. The table top can also include one or more receiving portions that are sized or configured to receive other components of the table, such as transversal elements, transversal bars and the like. For example, the table top can include receiving portions sized and configured to receive an upper portion of a support structure. The table top can also include receiving portions sized and configured for receiving portion of the legs when the legs are in the retracted position. In addition, the frame may include one or more openings that are sized and configured to facilitate fixing the legs on the table. For example, reinforcement may include openings that are dimensioned and configured to receive the ends of a cross member and / or the upper portion of a support structure. Depending on the shape and arrangement of the frame, the openings in the frame may have circular or non-circular configurations. The legs can be securely connected to the table top, extending the ends of the transverse tube through the holes in the frame.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a frame and a set of legs that are constructed of relatively strong and durable materials, such as metal, steel and the like. It will be appreciated, however, that the frame and the set of legs can be constructed of other materials with suitable characteristics and properties.
In addition, the table, frame, set of legs and the like can thus have a variety of other shapes, sizes, configurations and suitable arrangements depending, for example, on the intended use of the table.
Another aspect is a table that can include a plurality of tables with depressions. The plurality of depressions can be erased and cover at least most, substantially all, substantially all or all of the bottom surface of the table top. The plurality of depressions can be arranged in a generally uniform pattern, where the depressions generally have the same size, shape, orientation and arrangement. In addition, at least most depressions in the plurality of depressions can be erased from one or more adjacent depressions by a generally consistent or uniform distance. Advantageously, the depressions can help to create a table top with greater strength, stiffness and / or structural integrity. Furthermore, if the depressions of the plurality of depressions are generally uniformly spread out and arranged in a generally uniform pattern, this can help creating a table top with generally uniform characteristics.
Yet another aspect is a table top that can include reinforcement elements, such as depressions, grooves, channels and the like, arranged near or adjacent to the structural support elements or features of the table. For example, the table top can include a plurality of structural elements disposed near and / or adjacent to the frame. In more detail, the table top can include one or more receiving portions of the frame dimensioned and configured to receive the side rails of the frame and the receiving portion of the frame can include a plurality of reinforcement elements. When the frame is attached to the table top portion, the frame may cover all or part of the reinforcement elements in the frame receiving portion. The reinforcement elements in the receiving portion of the frame can be arranged in different arrangements and / or configurations, and can be used to create areas of increased strength and / or different characteristics. For example, the reinforcement elements can be arranged in the first and second configurations. In particular, the first configuration of the reinforcement elements can generally be aligned in the first direction, such as along the table top, while the second configuration of the reinforcement elements can generally be aligned in a second direction, such as along the width of the table top. The first configuration of the reinforcement elements can provide more strength in one direction or location and the second configuration of the reinforcement elements can provide more strength in a second direction or location. Due to the reinforcement elements providing additional strength in different directions and / or locations , this can allow relatively strong, resistant, hard or rigid structures to be built.
The other aspect is a table top that can include reinforcement elements with different configurations and / or arranged in different locations, to avoid or minimize potential points of weakness, stress concentration and so on. For example, the reinforcement elements can be dimensioned and configured to support the table top areas arranged outside the frame. The reinforcement elements can also be sized and configured to help prevent the table top from bending, flexing or closing when a load or force is applied over the table top portion. In addition, the reinforcement elements can be dimensioned and configured to help prevent the table top from being twisted or rotated in relation to reinforcement. Advantageously, due to the reinforcing elements it can help to support the portions of the table top arranged on the frame and / or edges; a strong, resistant and well supported table can be created. This can make stacking and nesting tables even easier, because, for example, the lower tables in the table stack can be susceptible to damage from the weight of the stacked tables.
Yet another aspect is a portion of the table top which may include one or more reinforcement elements disposed between and / or connected to a portion receiving the frame and an external portion of the table, as such as an edge. In particular, one or more reinforcement elements may connect to an armature receiving portion and an edge portion, such as an inner or side edge wall. In more detail, one or more reinforcement elements may be arranged at least partially on the upper surface and / or on the side walls of the reinforcement receiving portion and in at least a portion of an edge side wall. Because the reinforcement elements can connect the receiving portion of the reinforcement and the edge, the reinforcing elements can increase the strength and / or structural integrity of the receiving portion of the reinforcement and / or edge. In addition, because the reinforcement can cover at least a part of the receiving portion of the reinforcement and the side wall of the rim, these reinforcement elements can generally be hidden.
Yet another aspect is a table top that can include a plurality of reinforcement elements that are generally aligned. For example, the reinforcement elements can include a body which is generally aligned with an axis and each reinforcement element of the plurality of reinforcement elements can be generally aligned along the same axis or parallel axes. Advantageously, due to the reinforcement elements it is generally aligned with an axis, it can increase the strength, structural integrity and / or other characteristics in a given direction, as well as along the axis. Aligning the reinforcement elements along the same axis or parallel axes helps to create a table top with generally uniform characteristics and properties. The table top can also include another plurality of reinforcement elements which are generally aligned along a different axis. For example, the reinforcement elements arranged along the different axis can provide greater strength, structural integrity and / or other characteristics along this axis. Therefore, the reinforcement elements arranged along different axes can be used to create portions of the table top with different characteristics. This may allow, for example, that some of the reinforcement elements in the receiving portion of the reinforcement are arranged along a first axis, as generally aligned with a length of the table and other reinforcement elements arranged on a second axis, as well as aligned with a table top width. If desired, one or more of the reinforcement elements can be dimensioned and configured to help support the outer or lateral edges of the table top. For example, the reinforcement elements can help to prevent the outer edges of the table top from being supported directly on the frame, thus preventing them from bending, twisting or flexing unintentionally. it may include reinforcement elements, such as ribs arranged on an outer edge or on the edge of the table top. For example, the table top can include an edge or edge and a plurality of reinforcement elements can be formed on the edge. In particular, the inner surface of the edge, such as a side wall, can include a plurality of structural elements that extend internally. In addition, these reinforcement elements can be arranged, at least partially, in an armature receiving portion. Significantly, the reinforcement elements can provide greater strength, strength, stiffness and / or structural integrity for the table top portions, as well as the table top portions arranged on the frame and the table top portions that extend beyond of the frame, as the edge. Advantageously, the reinforcement elements can also help to prevent bending, bending or undesirable folding of the table top.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include reinforcement elements and depressions with different shapes, sizes, arrangements, orientations and / or configurations. For example, most or substantially the entire central portion of the table top may include depressions that are generally uniform in shape, size, arrangement, orientation and configuration. This can help to create a table top with generally constant characteristics. The lateral or the edges of the table top, however, can include depressions or reinforcement elements with different shapes, sizes, arrangements, orientations and / or configurations. For example, the edges of the table top can include a first group of depressions generally aligned in a first direction and a second group of depressions generally aligned in a second direction. If desired, the first direction can generally be perpendicular, or at an angle of about 30 °, 45 ° or 60 ° with respect to the second direction. Because the depressions or reinforcement elements can be aligned in different directions, the portions of the table top can have different characteristics. The reinforcement elements near the edges of the table top can also have different configurations. For example, a first group of reinforcement elements can be arranged in the receiving portion of the reinforcement and a second group of reinforcement elements can be arranged at least in a receiving portion of the reinforcement and the edge. These reinforcement elements can support the portion of the table top arranged above the frame and / or the portion of the table top that extends beyond the frame.
Yet another aspect is a table top that can include a receiving portion in an upper portion of the table top dimensioned and configured to receive a fitting portion of an adjacent table in an embedded configuration. The receiving portion can be supported by the reinforcement elements in the lower portion of the table top.
For example, the reinforcement elements may extend inwardly to the edge along the sides of the table top and / or be arranged on the bottom surface of the table top. An internal portion of the reinforcement elements may contact, engage or abut an internal portion of the receiving portion to provide greater strength, support, stiffness and / or structural integrity for the receiving portion. Advantageously, this can allow several tables to be stacked together because the receiving portion can support a much greater amount of weight and shape of the embedded tables.
Yet another aspect is a table top that can include a generally uniform pattern of depressions arranged in a plurality of generally aligned lines that extend across a lower surface of the table top. The table top can also include a plurality of channels on the bottom surface that are aligned with the lines of the depressions. The bottom surface of the table top may also include a recess dimensioned and configured to receive a structural support element such as a crossbar. The channels can be arranged on both sides of the structural support elements and the ends of the channels can be arranged to one side or to the end of the table top. In addition, a plurality of depressions can be arranged in a lower portion of the channels. The channels and depressions can be dimensioned and configured to provide extra strength, rigidity, structural integrity and / or torsion resistance close to the structural support elements and / or the ends of the table top. In more detail, the channels can be aligned with the depression lines and the channels can have different lengths. The width of the channels can generally be equal to the width of the depressions on the bottom surface of the table top. The depression in the channels can generally have the same shape, configuration and arrangement as the depression pattern on the bottom surface, but with a smaller size. The depressions in the channels can generally be arranged in the same pattern, arrangement and spacing as the depressions on the lower surface, which can provide minimal or no interruption to the support of the upper surface of the table top. This can allow the table top to have generally uniform characteristics, such as strength, stiffness, structural integrity and / or torsion resistance.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include a combination of features, features and the like, such as one or more of those discussed above. For example, the table may include a frame with fitting portions that are sized and configured to be arranged in a receiving portion of an adjacent table when the tables are fitted together. The table may also include one or more compression edges dimensioned and configured to be arranged in the receiving portion of the adjacent nestable table. Thus, fittings and compression edges can facilitate the alignment and fitting of the tables in a stacked configuration. In addition, the table may include depressions or structural elements arranged adjacent or close to the portions of the reinforcement, such as the side rails, and these structures can be dimensioned and configured to increase the strength, stiffness and / or structural integrity of the worktop portion. table arranged above and / or next to the frame, and / or portions of the table top that are not directly supported by the frame. In addition, the table may include depressions and / or structural elements arranged angularly in relation to the bottom surface of the table top. For example, the table may include structural elements on the edge arranged perpendicular to the bottom surface of the table top. In addition, the table may include openings or recesses in the sides that allow a portion of the frame to be exposed and easily visible when the table is being used or stored and the openings at the ends create algae.
Another aspect is a table that can be built from one or more materials and processes. For example, the table top can be constructed of molded plastic, such as blow molded plastic. The frame and legs can be built with high strength materials such as steel. In particular, the frame and / or the legs can be constructed with high-strength, low-alloy steel (HSLA) instead of traditional carbon steel. It is important to say that the HSLA shaft can be twenty to thirty percent (20% to 30%) lighter than carbon shaft with the same strength. Therefore, a frame built with HSLA shaft can be light and have the same strength it is a conventional table built with a carbon steel frame, because a smaller HSLA steel gauge can be used. For example, 16 sixteen or eighteen 18 HSLA gauges can be used to build the table, which is less than would be used with traditional ago. Aug HSLA, however, was not previously used in this or other related industries, because it is much more expensive than traditional auger. 0 ago HSLA has a prohibitive cost. Reducing the amount of water needed to manufacture the table with one or more of the features disclosed here, however, may be more than sufficient to offset or justify the price of the more expensive HSLA water. Particularly, due to the amount of augmentation needed to create the table with the characteristics disclosed here, it can be significantly less than the amount of augmentation needed to create a corresponding traditional table, HSLA augmentation can no longer be so prohibitive. Thus, because less ago is required and / or the HSLA ago may be stronger and lighter, the table can be manufactured with agoHSLA.
Yet another aspect is a table that can include legs with support elements that are widely spaced, which can help to create a firm table that is likely to move or swing if not desired. The table can also include a table top with various shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements, such as rectangular, square, circular, rectangular and the like. In addition, the table top may include one or more openings to allow, for example, a portion of the frame to be exposed and / or to create algae or a handle.
Another aspect is a table top that can be dimensioned and configured to fit with an adjacent table to reduce the height of a plurality of tables stacked in an embedded configuration. The table top can be constructed of molded plastic and includes an upper surface, a side wall and a receiving portion at least partially arranged on the upper surface and the side wall. The receiving portion can be sized and configured to receive a coupling portion from an adjacent table when the tables are arranged in an embedded configuration. The table top can also include a lower portion and a plurality of reinforcement elements can be arranged in the lower portion of the table top that is sized and configured to support the receiving portion. Each reinforcement element of the plurality of reinforcement elements can include an internal portion, dimensioned and configured to support an internal portion of the receiving portion. The upper surface, the side wall, the receiving portion, the lower portion and the plurality of reinforcement elements can be integrally formed during the molding process as part of a unit, built in a single handle.
Yet another aspect is a table top which can include an upper surface formed by an external wall of the molded plastic table top and a lower portion formed by the external wall of the molded plastic table top. A receiving portion can be formed on the outer wall of the molded plastic table top and a plurality of reinforcement elements can be formed on the outer wall of the molded plastic table top. The receiving portion can be arranged over a perimeter of the top surface of the table top. In addition, if the table top is constructed of blow-molded plastic, then the upper surface, the side wall, the receiving portion, the lower portion and the plurality of reinforcement elements can be integrally formed as part of a unit, constructed in a single handle during the blow molding process. In addition, the receiving portion can be arranged between a piano generally aligned with the top surface of the table top and umpian generally aligned with a lower surface of the table top, and the plurality of reinforcement elements can be arranged between the piano generally aligned with the top surface of the table top and the piano generally aligned with the bottom surface of the table top. The upper portion of the reinforcement elements may come into contact with the inner portion of the receiving portion and one or more of the reinforcement elements may extend into the lower portion of the table top and contact the receiving portion. One or more of the reinforcement elements may also extend into a side wall of an edge and an inner portion of one or more reinforcement elements comes into contact with the inner portion of the receiving portion. One or more of the elements of the reinforcement may additionally extend over the bottom portion of the table top and contact the receiving portion. Finally, one or more of the reinforcement elements may extend inwardly on a side wall of an edge and an upper portion of one or more reinforcement elements may also come into contact with the inner surface of the receiving portion, and one or more of the elements of the reinforcement can extend over the lower portion of the table top and contact the receiving portion.
Yet another aspect is a table top that can be dimensioned and configured to fit with an adjacent table to reduce the height of a plurality of tables stacked in an embedded configuration, and the table top can be constructed of molded plastic. The table top may include an upper surface, a side wall, a receiving portion at least partially arranged on the upper surface and the side wall which is dimensioned and configured to receive a coupling portion of an adjacent table, when the tables are arranged in an embedded configuration and a lower portion. A plurality of reinforcement elements can be arranged in the lower portion of the table top and can be dimensioned and configured to support the receiving portion. The upper surface, the side wall, the receiving portion, the lower portion and the plurality of reinforcement elements can be integrally formed during the molding process as part of a unit, built in a single piece. The reinforcement elements may include a first plurality of reinforcement elements arranged along a first portion of the table top, each reinforcement element of the first plurality of reinforcement elements may include an internal portion, dimensioned and configured to support an internal portion of the receiving portion. The reinforcement elements may also include a second plurality of reinforcement elements arranged along a second portion of the table top, each reinforcement element of the second plurality of reinforcement elements may include an internal portion dimensioned and configured to support an internal portion of the table top. receiving portion.
The first plurality of reinforcement elements can be arranged along one side of the table top and the second plurality of reinforcement elements can be arranged in a corner of the table top. In addition, the first plurality of reinforcement elements may extend into a side wall of an edge of the table top and an inner portion of the first plurality of reinforcement elements may contact the inner portion of the receiving portion. In addition, the second plurality of reinforcement elements may extend over the bottom portion of the table top and an inner portion of the second plurality of reinforcement elements may come into contact with the inner portion of the receiving portion. In addition, the first plurality of reinforcement elements can be arranged generally parallel to the lower portion of the table top and the second plurality of reinforcement elements can be arranged generally perpendicular to the lower portion of the table top. The first plurality of reinforcement elements can also include a depression disposed at least in most of the reinforcement elements and the internal portion of the receiving portion and the second plurality of reinforcement elements also comprises a depression arranged between at least most of the reinforcement elements and the internal portion of the receiving portion.
Yet another aspect is a table top that can be dimensioned and configured to fit with an adjacent table to reduce the height of a plurality of tables stacked in an embedded configuration. The table top can be constructed of molded plastic and includes an upper surface, a side wall and a receiving portion at least partially arranged on the upper surface and the side wall, the receiving portion can be sized and configured to receive a coupling portion of an adjacent table, when the tables are arranged in an embedded configuration. The table top can also include a lower portion and a plurality of depressions arranged in the lower portion of the table top can be sized and configured to support the receiving portion, and each depression of the plurality of depressions can include an internal portion sized and configured for supporting an internal portion of the receiving portion. The upper surface, the side wall, the receiving portion, the lower portion and the plurality of depressions can be integrally formed during the molding process as part of a unit, built in a single piece. One or more depressions of the plurality of depressions can be arranged on one edge of the table top and one end of the depressions can come into contact with the inner portion of the receiving portion. In addition, one or more depressions of the plurality of depression may be arranged in a corner of the table top and one end of the depressions may come into contact with the inner portion of the receiving portion. In addition, the plurality of depressions can be arranged along one or more laterals, one or more corners and one or more ends of the table top and the depressions can be sized and configured to support the receiving portion on the laterals, the corners and the ends of the table top.
These and other aspects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become completely more evident from the detailed Description below of the preferred embodiments and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The attached drawings contain figures of the preferred modalities to further clarify and illustrate the above-mentioned aspects, advantages and characteristics of the present invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings describe only the preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit its scope. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that while the drawings may illustrate preferred sizes, scales, relationships and configurations of the invention, however these are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. The invention will be described and explained with additional and detailed specificity by using the attached drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary table;
Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of the table, illustrating the support structures in a use or extended position;
Figure 3 is another bottom perspective view of the table part, showing the support structure in a storage or retracted position;
Figure 4 is a bottom perspective view, showing the table top;
Figure 5 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of a portion of the table top designated by dotted lines labeled 5 in Figure 4;
Figure 6 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of a portion of the table top designated by dotted lines labeled 6 in Figure 4;
Figure 7 is a partial and enlarged cross-sectional side view along lines 7-7, of a portion of the table top shown in Figure 4;
Figure 8 is a partial and enlarged cross-sectional side view along lines 8-8, of a portion of the table top shown in Figure 3;
Figure 9 is a partial and enlarged cross-sectional side view along lines 9-9, of a portion of the table top shown in Figure 3;
Figure 10 is a partial and enlarged cross-sectional side view along lines 10-10 of a portion of the table top shown in Figure 4;
Figure 11 is a partial and enlarged cross-sectional side view along lines 11-11 of a portion of the table top shown in Figure 3;
Figure 12 is a partial and enlarged cross-sectional side view along lines 12-12 of a portion of the table top shown in Figure 4;
Figure 13 is a top perspective view of two exemplary tables arranged in a stacked or embedded shape;
Figure 14 is a cross-sectional side view along the cutting line 14-14, of part of the tables shown in Figure 13;
Figure 15 is another bottom perspective view of the table, showing the support structure in a storage or retracted position;
Figure 16 and yet another bottom perspective view of a part of the table, which illustrates the table top;
Figure 17 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of a portion of the table top designated by dotted lines labeled 17 in Figure 16;
Figure 18 is an enlarged cross-sectional view along lines 18-18 of a portion of the table top shown in Figure 16; and
Figure 19 is a cross-sectional side view along lines 19-19 of a portion of the table top shown in Figure 15. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The present invention is generally directed to a table. The principles of the present invention, however, are not limited to tables. It should be understood that, in the light of the present disclosure, the tables disclosed herein may have a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements. In addition, while the tables shown in the attached figures are illustrated as dining tables or utility tables, it should be noted that the tables can be of other suitable types of tables, such as round tables, staff, conference, games. In addition, the invention disclosed herein can be used successfully in connection with other types of furniture and / or structures.
Additionally, to assist in the description of the preferred table modes, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, right and left can be used to describe the attached figures, which can be, but not necessarily, drawn to scale. It will also be appreciated that the tables can be arranged in a variety of desired positions or orientations, and used in various locations, environments and arrangements. A detailed description of the table's exemplary modalities is now provided.
As shown in figures 1 and 2, an exemplary table 10 can include a table top 12 and the table top can be constructed of molded plastic. Table top 12 may include an upper portion 14, such as an upper surface, a lower portion 16, such as a lower portion and a perimeter 18. As shown in the accompanying figures, a side wall can be arranged over perimeter 18 of the table top 12. The upper portion 14 can be separated from the lower portion 16 of the table top 12 by a distance, which can be a generally constant distance. The table top 12 may also include a hollow internal portion disposed between the upper and lower parts 14, 16 of the table top. In addition, table top 12 may include a lip 20, which may extend below the bottom portion 16 of the table top. The table top 12 may further include one or more laterals 22, corners 24 and ends 26. The table top 12 including the upper portion 14, the lower portion 16, the hollow inner portion, the edge 20, the sides 22, the corners 24 and / or ends 26 can be formed integrally as part of a unit, built in a single piece during the molding process. If table top 12 is constructed of plastic, it can be formed into the desired shape by blow molding, injection molding, rotary molding, or other suitable processes. It will also be appreciated that table top 12 can be constructed using various materials, such as wood, metal and the like.
Table 10 can also include one or more support structures 28 that can be dimensioned and configured to support table top 12 on a surface, such as the floor or floor. The support structures 28 can include one or more legs or supports 30 and the support structures can be moved between a use or extended position and a storage position or retracted in relation to the table top portion 12. As shown in the figures attached, support structures 28 may include a pair of legs or supports 30 and a connecting element 32 for interconnecting the supports.
Table 10 can include a frame 36 which is connected to the table top portion 12. If desired, the support structures 28 can be connected to the frame 36. In addition, the support structures 28 can be movably connected to the frame 36 to allow legs 30 to move between a use or extended position and a storage or retracted position. For example, the support structures 28 may include or be connected to the transversal elements 38, 40 and the legs 30 can be connected to the transversal elements. The cross members 38, 40 can be attached to the frame 36. In particular, the frame 36 can include elongated elements, such as side rails 42, 44 and the cross elements, 38, 40 can be attached to the side rails. It will be appreciated that the cross members 38, 40 can also be a part of the frame 36.
Support structures 28 and / or legs 30, however, will not need to be connected to cross members 38, 40 or frame 36. Instead, support structures 28 and / or legs 30 can be connected to any appropriate parts of the table 10. It will also be appreciated that the table 10 can include any suitable number of support structures 28 and / or legs 30 depending, for example, on the intended use of the table. It will also be appreciated that the table top 12, the support structures 28 and the legs 30 can have different sizes, shapes, configurations and arrangements depending, for example, on the intended use of the table 10. It will also be appreciated that the frame 36, side rails 42, 44 and / or cross members 38, 40 are not necessary; and table 10 can have other components, features, features, features and the like, if desired.
Table 10 can also include first and second sets of broachers 46, 48, which can be connected with support structures 28. In particular, the set of broachers 46, 48 can be connected to legs 30 and can be sized and configured to allow the legs to move between the use and storage positions. As shown in figure 2, the set of broachers 46, 48 can include a first portion 50A connected to the legs 30 and a second portion 50B connected to a cross member 52 and / or the portion of the table top 12. The first and second portions 50A, 50B can be interconnected to form the set of broachers 46, 48.
Table 10 is preferably sized and configured to be stacked with one or more additional tables. In particular, stacked tables 10 are preferably fitted together to reduce the height of stacked tables, which can allow tables to be transported, stored and shipped in a smaller area. This can result in a significant reduction in costs for the manufacturer because, for example, less storage space may be required and a substantial reduction in transportation costs can be achieved. An exemplary embodiment of stacked and stacked tables is shown in figures 13 and 14, which will be discussed in more detail below. Characteristics, additional aspects, and exemplary modalities of docked and stacked tables are shown in the applicant's US patent number 13 / 455,041, entitled TABLES WITH NESTING TABLE TOPS, filed on April 24, 2012; American patent application serial number 13 / 455,055, entitled FRAME FOR A TABLE, filed on April 24, 2012; and American patent application serial number 13 / 455,066, entitled TABLE, filed on April 24, 2012. Each of these applications is incorporated here as a reference in Integra.
Frame 36 can be dimensioned and configured to facilitate the seating of tables 10. For example, as shown in figure 2, the side rails, 42, 44 of frame 36 can be arranged along the sides 22 of table top 12. Advantageously, the side rails 42, 44 are arranged next to the side 22 of the table top 12, so the side sides of the table top can be supported by frame 36, which can help to create a strong and resistant table 10. In addition, the rails laterals 42, 44 can be dimensioned and configured to help transfer forces in the central portion of the table and away from perimeter 18, which also helps to create a strong and resistant table 10.
As shown in figures 1 to 4, table 10 can include a seaweed 54 arranged at one or both ends 26 of the table top 12. Seaweed 54 is preferably sized and configured to facilitate the movement and transport of the table 10. In addition, alga 54 can help to separate tables 10 in the docked configuration. The seaweed 54 can consist of a recess or opening in the edge 20 of the table top 12 and the seaweed can be integrally formed with table top as part of a unit, built in a single handle.
Table 10 can also include openings 56 arranged on edge 20 along the sides 22 of table top 12. Openings 56 can be sized and configured to allow a portion of reinforcement 36, such as the outer surface 58 of the reinforcement, to be visible or exposed along the sides 22 of the table top 12. This can allow, for example, a consumer to easily see the exposed surface 58 of frame 36. Therefore, the table top 12 can include openings 56 in the sides 22 to allow that a portion of the frame 36 is exposed and open at the ends 26 to form the algae 54. Thus, the table top 12 can include openings on both sides 22 and the ends 26 and the openings 56 on the sides can be much larger than algae 54 by a factor like five, ten, twenty or more.
As shown in the attached figures, table top 12 can include a plurality of depressions 60. Depressions 60 can be sized, formed, configured and arranged to provide greater strength, strength and / or rigidity for table top 12. Depresses 60 may also cover most, substantially all or all of the lower portion 16 of table top 12. In addition, depressions 60 may have a generally uniform shape, size, configuration and arrangement. The depressions 60 can also have an elongated shape that is aligned with the axis and the depressions can be aligned in a series of rows and columns that extend along the length and width of the table top 12. In addition, the depressions 60 in the adjacent rows and columns can be offset and the distance between depressions in the adjacent rows and columns can generally be the same. For example, the distance between the adjacent depressions in each row or column can generally be constant or the same. adjacent rows and columns can also be generally constant or the same.
The depressions 60 can be used to create a table top 12 with generally uniform characteristics or qualities. For example, if the depressions 60 are consistently eroded, they can allow a top surface 62 of table top 12 to be supported evenly. In addition, if the depressions 60 are separated by a generally constant distance, which can be measured from the center of a depression to the center of an adjacent depression, they can create a table top 12 with more uniform characteristics or qualities. between adjacent depressions 60 can be measured in the longitudinal direction, laterally or at an angle depending, for example, on the arrangement of the depressions.
Depressions 60 can also be arranged in a pattern and depressions can generally be aligned and / or arranged in predetermined positions within the pattern. The pattern can include, for example, a number of lines 64 and / or columns 66 of depressions 60. Lines 64 can be arranged along a length of table top 12 and columns 66 can extend over a width of the table top. The depressions 60 can also be arranged in other suitable shapes and patterns and can have other shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements, depending, for example, on the use of the table 10.
A plurality of depressions 60 can also be arranged next to the connection of frame 36 and table top 12. These depressions 60 next to frame 36 can have the same size, shape, configuration and arrangement, as the depressions in the pattern. The depressions 60 next to frame 36 can also have other sizes, shapes, configurations and / or arrangements, as discussed in more detail below. A plurality of depressions 60 can also be disposed between side rails 42, 44 of frame 36 and an upper surface 62 of table top 12. Advantageously, depression 60 can help support the portion of table top 12 arranged on the rails laterals 42, 44 of frame 36, which can help to prevent the table top from flexing or deforming undesirably. The depressions 60 can also help to prevent the portions of the table top 12 arranged on the side rails 42, 44 of the frame 36 from bending or closing if a load or the frame is applied over that portion of the table top.
The depressions 60 can also have different characteristics, depending, for example, on a particular configuration of the depressions. For example, the depressions 60 may have an elongated length and a depression may have an increased strength along its length.
60 can also have a non-circular configuration with the force increased in one direction compared to another direction. Advantageously, if the depressions 60 have different characteristics, then the depressions can be organized or configured so that the structure has certain characteristics. In particular, the depressions 60 can be arranged in a pattern to maximize certain features and / or create a structure with generally uniform features. For example, the pattern can include generally uniformly spaced depressions 60 which are separated by a generally constant distance and / or arranged in a standardized arrangement. A consistent arrangement of depressbes 60 can help to create a structure with uniform characteristics. For example, a generally constant pattern of depressbes 60 can create a structure with generally uniform strength and structural integrity.
Table 10, table top 12, depressbes 60 and other components of the table may have a variety of suitable shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements, as disclosed in U.S. Patent Number 7,069,865, by the Applicant itself, entitled HIGH -STRENGTH, LIGHTWEIGHT BLOW-MOLDED PLASTIC STRUCTURES, issued on July 4, 2006, which is incorporated herein by reference, in its entirety. In addition, table 10, table top 12 and the appropriate configurations, as disclosed in US provisional patent application serial number 11 / 372,515, by the Applicant itself, entitled HIGH-STRENGTH, LIGHTWEIGHT BLOW-MOLDED PLASTIC STRUCTURES, deposited on March 9, 2006, currently pending, which is incorporated by reference, in its entirety.
The table top 12 can also have one or more reinforcement elements 70, which can be arranged close to the ends 26 of the table top. Reinforcement elements 70 can also be formed on the edge 20, the laterals 22 and / or the corners 24 of the table top 12. Advantageously, the reinforcement elements 70 can increase the strength, stiffness, structural integrity and / or impact resistance of the table top 12. Additional examples of tables, table tops, depressions and reinforcement elements (along with other features, aspects and components) are disclosed in the Applicant's patents, numbers 7,111,563; 7,475,643; 7,814,844 and 8,033,228; each of these requests is incorporated here as a reference in Integra. It will be understood that the tables disclosed in this document © can have different shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements; and may include any suitable amount and combination of characteristics, aspects and components; but none of these features, aspects or components may be necessary.
The table top 12 can include reinforcement elements, such as depressions 60 and / or reinforcement elements 70, arranged at least close to stress concentrations. For example, reinforcement elements can be positioned to help reinforce the upper surface 62 and / or a lower surface 68 of the table top 12, and to minimize stress concentrations, as can occur with the connection of frame 36 and table top. table. In particular, the reinforcement elements can be dimensioned and configured to increase the strength, stiffness and / or strength of the table top 12 disposed above the frame 36 to minimize areas without table top support. In addition, the reinforcement elements can increase the strength, stiffness and / or strength of the portions of the table top 12 that extend beyond the frame 36. For example, the reinforcement elements can be dimensioned and configured to help prevent parts of the table top 12 bend or become undesirable, such as the edges that are arranged on the perimeter 18 of the table top 12.
As discussed above, reinforcement elements, such as depressions 60 and / or reinforcement elements 70, can have a certain size, shape, configuration and / or arrangement to provide greater strength, stiffness and / or structural integrity. Thus, the reinforcement elements can have specific sizes, shapes, configurations and arrangements depending on, for example, factors such as location, use, function and the like.
As best seen in figure 5, the table top can include reinforcement elements 72 disposed next to a frame portion 74 dimensioned and configured to receive at least a frame frame portion 36. In particular, frame frame 74 may be dimensioned and configured to receive side rails 42, 44 of frame 36.0 side track 42 can contact or touch a top surface 76 of the receiving portion of frame 74.0 side track 42 can also contact or touch an inner side wall 78 and a wall outer side 80 of the receiving portion of frame 74. The receiving portion of frame 74 can be integrally formed on the lower surface 68 of table top 12 as part of a unit, built in a single piece.
The reinforcement elements 72 can be pressed or arranged between an upper surface of the side rail 42, 44 and the upper surface 62 of the table top 12. For example, the reinforcement elements 72 may include an end disposed close to an upper surface of the table. side track 42, 44 and an opposite end, contacting the upper surface 62 of the table top 12. The reinforcement elements 72 can also be dimensioned and configured to facilitate the air flow during the molding process, which can be It is particularly useful if the table top is constructed of blow-molded plastic, because the receiving portion of frame 74 can extend into the lower surface 68 of table top 12 and can be blown off at a boundary between the upper portion of the receiving portion of the frame and the upper surface of the table top 12.
As seen in figures 5 and 7, the reinforcement elements 72 can be arranged on the upper surface 76 of the receiving portion of the frame 74. The reinforcement elements 72 can extend from the upper surface 76 of the receiving portion of the frame 74 to the upper surface 62 of the table top 12. As shown in the accompanying figures, each of the reinforcement elements 72 can be a channel or rib which is formed on the upper surface 76 of the receiving portion of the frame 74 which contacts or abuts the upper surface 62, but the elements of reinforcement can also be grooves, notches, depressions or the like. The reinforcement element 72 can be entirely arranged between or confined within the inner side wall 78 and the outer side wall 80 of the receiving portion of the frame 74. While the reinforcement element 72 can have an elongated length as shown in the attached figures, the elements reinforcement can also have other suitable configurations, such as round, circular, oval, oblong, and the like.
Reinforcement elements 72 can be dimensioned, formed, configured and organized to provide greater strength, strength and / or rigidity for table top 12, Reinforcement elements 72 can also be used to create a table top 12 with more features or uniform qualities. Advantageously, the reinforcement elements 72 can help to support the portion of the table top 12 arranged on the side rails 42, 44, which can help to prevent the table top from flexing undesirably or otherwise deforming. The reinforcement elements 72 can also help prevent the portion of the table top 12 arranged on the side rails 42, 44 from folding or closing if a load or force is applied to the portion of the table top.
As best seen in figures 5 and 7, table top 12 can include a first group or plurality of reinforcement elements 72, which can be substantially or totally arranged on the upper surface 76 of the reinforcement receiving portion 74. The reinforcement elements 72 they may have an elongated length that is arranged in a first direction, as well as generally perpendicular to the length of the table top 12 and located between the sides of the inner and outer walls 78, 80 of the receiving portion of reinforcement 74. The reinforcement elements 72 may have a generally constant or consistent spacing, size, shape, configuration and / or arrangement. In addition, the reinforcement elements 72 can be arranged along the axis and / or in a parallel configuration, and the adjacent reinforcement elements in the receiving portion of reinforcement 74 can be separated from each other by a generally constant distance.
The table top 12 may also include a second group or plurality of reinforcement elements 82. The second plurality of reinforcement elements 82 can generally be of the same size, shape, configuration and arrangement. The second plurality of reinforcement elements 82 can also be separated by a generally consistent distance. As shown in the accompanying figures, the first and second pluralities of reinforcement elements 72, 82 can have different shapes, configurations of sizes and / or arrangements. For example, the reinforcement elements 72, 82 can be arranged at different angles, such as at right angles to each other, or in different directions. For example, in the present embodiment, if the first plurality of reinforcement elements 72 is generally aligned with the length of the table top 12, then the second plurality of reinforcement elements 82 can be generally aligned with the width of the table top. table. If desired, reinforcement elements 72, 82 can alternate between a reinforcement element of the first plurality of reinforcement elements and the second plurality of reinforcement elements.
As shown in figures 5 and 7, the reinforcement elements 72, 82 can have different configurations. For example, the reinforcement element 82 can be a rib or channel that extends the entire width of the receiving portion of the frame 74 and can be arranged at least partially on one or more of the side walls 78, 80 of the receiving portion of the frame. If the receiving portion of the frame 74 is aligned with the edge 20, the reinforcement element 82 can also be formed on the edge, as in an inner side wall 84 of the edge. The reinforcement element 82 can be arranged perpendicularly to the edge 20 or an edge of the table top 12, such as the laterals 22 and the reinforcement elements can be arranged in a parallel configuration. The reinforcement elements 82 can be dimensioned and configured to avoid flexing or bending the external parts of the table top 12 that are not supported by the frame 36.
In greater detail, the reinforcement element 82 can be formed in the inner side wall 78 of the receiving portion of the frame 74 and the reinforcement element can extend along all or just a part of the inner side wall. The reinforcement element 82 may also extend over the entire width of the upper surface 76 of the frame receiving portion 74. Furthermore, the reinforcement element 82 may be formed on the outer wall 80 of the frame receiving portion 74 and / or a side wall 84 of edge 20. As best seen in figure 5, the reinforcement element 82 can have different sizes and configurations. For example, some of the reinforcement elements 82 can be larger or smaller. Advantageously, because the reinforcement elements 82 can be arranged both on the receiving portion of the frame 74 and on the edge of 20, the reinforcement elements can help to connect the receiving portion of the frame and the edge. Reinforcement elements 82 can also provide greater strength, strength and / or stiffness for these portions of table top 12. For example, reinforcement elements 82 can increase the strength, stiffness and / or strength of portions of table top 12 which extend or are arranged beyond the frame 36, such as the edge 20. In addition, the reinforcement elements 82 can be dimensioned and configured to prevent the edge 20 from bending or deforming undesirably.
Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment, a first plurality of depressions or reinforcement elements 72 and a second plurality of depressions or reinforcement elements 82 can be arranged between the side rails 42, 44 and the upper portion 14 or upper surface 62 of the worktop. table 12. As shown in figure 9, the side rails, 42, 44 can include an upper portion or surface 86 that contacts the lower surface 68 of the table top 12. In addition, the plurality of reinforcement elements 72 can be arranged between a first side 88A and a second side 88B of the upper portion or surface 86 of the side rails 42, 44.
As discussed above, depressions 60, reinforcement elements 72 and reinforcement elements 82 can provide greater strength, stiffness and / or structural integrity. These structures can also support the portions of the table top 12, such as the portions arranged on the side rails 42, 44 of the frame and the portions that extend beyond frame 36. Advantageously, this may allow the table top 12 to have more uniform features.
As shown in figures 9, 11 and 12, table top 12 can include a receiving portion 90 which is sized and configured to facilitate coupling of tables. The receiving portion 90 can be arranged at least partially in the upper portion 14 or upper surface 62 of table top 12 and can be sized and configured to receive a coupling portion 92 from an adjacent table, when the tables are arranged in an interlocking configuration . The receiving portion 90 is preferably arranged over the perimeter 18 of the table top 12. In particular, the receiving portion 90 is preferably arranged over the entire perimeter 18 of the table top 12, including the laterals 22, corners 24 and ends 26 Desirably, the receiving portion 90 can be arranged below a piano aligned with the upper surface 62 of the table top 12. The receiving portion 90 can be integrally formed with the table top 12 as part of a unit, built in a single unit. picks up during the molding process, if the table top is constructed of molded plastic. In more detail, the receiving portion 90 can be arranged at least near the intersection of the upper surface 62 and an outer edge of the table top 12. In addition, the receiving portion 90 can have a generally L-shaped configuration and open on both sides, which can help to facilitate the alignment and coupling of tables 10.
The coupling portion 92 may be a portion of the frame 36, as well as a portion of the side rails, 42, 44, and / or a portion of the table top 12, such as a portion of the edge 20, the laterals 22, the corners 24 and / or the ends 26. If desired, the portions of the edge 20, the laterals 22, the corners 24 and / or the ends 26 disposed in the receiving portion 90 may include pressing edges. Therefore, the coupling portion 92 arranged in the receiving portion 90 may include a combination of one or more portions of the frame 36 and / or table top 12. The receiving portion 90 and the coupling portion 92 may have various shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements, as shown in patent application serial number 13 / 455,041, entitled TABLES WITH NESTING TABLE TOPS, filed on April 24, 2012; American patent application serial numbers 13 / 455,055, entitled FRAME FOR A TABLE, filed on April 24, 2012; and US provisional patent application serial number 13 / 455,066, entitled TABLE, filed on April 24, 2012, all in the name of the Applicant. Each of these requests is incorporated here as a reference in Integra.
As shown in the attached figures, the receiving portion 90 is preferably arranged on the perimeter 18 of the table top 12, including the sides 22, the corners 24 and the ends 26. In addition, the receiving portion 90 can be at least partially arranged on the the upper surface 62 and the edge of the table top 12, and the receiving portion can be arranged below on a piano generally aligned with the upper surface of the table top. The receiving portion 90 can be integrally formed with the table top 12 as part of a unit, built in a single handle during the molding process, if the table top is constructed of molded plastic.
As shown in figure 14, the receiving portion 90 can have a generally L-shaped configuration that is open on both sides, which can facilitate the alignment and coupling of the tables 10. The receiving portion 90 can be a rib or channel with a height and width. For example, a side wall 106 of the receiving portion 90 may have a height between 0.25 inches (0.63 cm) and about 0.3 inches (0.762 cm) or 0.4 inches (1.016 cm) and a bottom surface 106 of the receiving portion 90 may have a width that is greater than the height by a factor such as two, three or more. For example, the width can be approximately twice the height so that, in the exemplary embodiment, if the height is about 0.25 inches (0.63 cm), then the width can be about 0.5 inches (1, 27 cm). The height and width can also be approximately the same. For example, if the height is about 0.5 inches (1.27 cm), then the width can also be about 0.5 inches (1.27 cm). It will be appreciated that the width can also be less than the height. So, for example, if the height is about 0.4 inches (1.0 cm), then the width can be about 0.3 inches (0.76 cm) or less. It should be understood that the height and / or width of the receiving portion 90 can vary depending, for example, on the intended use of the table 10.
The receiving portion 90 can be supported by the reinforcement elements and / or depressions 94 disposed in the lower portion 16 of the table top 12. For example, as shown in figure 11, the reinforcement elements 94 can include an internal portion 96 (such as an internal or upper surface) that contacts, abuts or engages an internal portion 98 (as well as, an internal surface) of the receiving portion 90. In greater detail, the reinforcement elements 94 may extend internally or horizontally in relation to the portion bottom 16 of table 12. For example, reinforcement elements 94 can be arranged along sides 22 or ends 26 of table top 12. In particular, reinforcement elements 94 can be arranged on inner side wall 84 of edge 20 and has a generally curved or arc-shaped configuration. An inner surface of the reinforcement element 94 can be eroded in addition to an outer wall of the edge 20 and the inner portion 96 of the reinforcement elements can contact the inner portion 98 of the receiving portion 90. For a table 10 having about six pieces ( 1.8 meters) in length and thirty-two reinforcement elements 94 can be arranged along each side 22 of the table top 10. It will be understood that more or less reinforcement elements 94 can be arranged along the sides 22 and / or ends 26 of table top 12 depending, for example, on the length or intention of using table 10.
As shown in figures 4 to 7 and 10 to 11, for example, reinforcement elements 94 can be arranged on side wall 84 of edge 20. Reinforcement elements 94 can also be arranged in corners 24, as shown in figures 2 and 12. Advantageously, the reinforcement elements 94 may also consist of and / or be referred to as depressions. In addition, as discussed below, one or more depressions can be used to connect the receiving portion 90 and the reinforcement elements 94. It will be understood in light of the present disclosure, that the reinforcement elements 94 can have different shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements depending, for example, on the use of the table 10.
The reinforcement elements 94 can also be arranged at other angles and / or connected to the internal portion 98 of the receiving portion 90 in different configurations and arrangements.
For example, as shown in figure 12, the reinforcement elements 94 can be arranged in the corners 24 of the table top 12. The reinforcement elements 94 in the corners 24 can extend above the lower surface 68 of the table top 12. In In more detail, the inner portion 96 of the reinforcement element 94 in the corner 24 can contact, abut or engage the inner portion 98 of the receiving portion 90. In particular, the inner portion 96 of the reinforcement elements 94 can contact the inner portion 98 of the portion receiver 90, such as the inner surface of a lower portion 100 and / or an inner surface of the side wall 102. Each corner 24 of table top 12 may include eight connections between the reinforcement elements 94 and the receiving portion 90. It will be understood Since table 10 can have any number of suitable connections between the reinforcement elements 94 and the receiving portion 90, the reinforcement elements can be arranged in any appropriate parts of the table top 12 and the reinforcement elements forgo may have other sizes, shapes, configurations and arrangements depending, for example, on the intended use of the table 10.
Advantageously, the reinforcement elements 94 can provide greater strength, support, stiffness and structural integrity for the receiving portion 90. The reinforcement elements 94 can also allow the receiving portion 90 to support a considerable amount of weight or force. Significantly, this can allow a number of tables 10 to be arranged in an embedded configuration, because, for example, the tables arranged at the bottom of the stack are not damaged by the weight of the tables. For example, when tables 10 are joined together as shown in figures 13 and 14, the coupling portion 92 may contact or abut the bottom surface 104 and / or the side wall 106 of the receiving portion 90 and these may become the surfaces load-bearing. Because the reinforcement elements 94 can increase the strength, stiffness and / or structural integrity of the receiving portion 90, this can allow a considerable number of tables 10 to be stacked and fitted together without causing damage to the receiving portion.
One or more depressions can also support the receiving portion 90. For example, one or more depressions can attach to the reinforcement element 94 and the receiving portion 90. In addition, one or more depressions can be formed at the edge 20 and / or at the lower portion 14 of table top 12 and depressions can contact, couple or abut the inner portion 98 of the receiving portion 90.
Table 10 can also include other structures that can increase the strength, stiffness and / or structural integrity of table top 12. For example, the bottom surface 68 of table top 12 can include one or more recesses 110, which are dimensioned and configured to receive a structural support element, such as a portion of the support structure 28, the frame 36, the cross element 38, the cross element 40 and / or the cross element 52. For example, as shown in figure 16, a the first recess of the cross member 112 can be sized and configured to receive a part of the cross member 38 and a second recess of the cross member 114 can be sized and configured to receive a part of the cross member 40. The third recess of the cross member 116 can be dimensioned and configured to receive the cross member 52 disposed close to the center of the table top 12. The bottom surface 68 of the table top 12 can also i Include a first recess of the support structure 118 and a second recess of the support structure 120 which are sized and configured to receive the support structures 28 in the storage or closed position. The recesses 112, 114, 116, 118 and 120 can facilitate the fitting of the tables 10, allowing an upper portion of an adjacent stacked table to be arranged in a lower portion of the table. The recesses, 112, 114, 116, 118 and 120 can also help to position the various components in the desired position.
The bottom surface 68 of table top 12 can also include one or more channels 122, which can be aligned in a parallel configuration. The channels 122 may have a width generally equal to the width of the depressions 60 on the lower surface 68 and the channels are preferably aligned with the depressions. Advantageously, because the channels 122 can be aligned and generally have the same width as the depressions 60, the channels may not interrupt or interfere with the pattern or generally uniform arrangement of the disposed depressions. The channels 122, however, can have a width that is greater or less than the width of the depressions 60, if desired.
As shown in figures 15 to 19, a plurality of depressions 124 may be arranged in a lower portion 126 of channel 122 and the depressions may contact, touch or engage with the upper surface 62 of the table top 12. The depressions 124 may have in general the same pattern, spacing, size, shape, configuration and arrangement. In addition, the depressions 124 in the lower portion 12 6 of the channel 122 can generally be arranged in the same pattern, as well as the depressions 60 in the lower surface 68. Significantly, if the depressions 60, 124 are arranged in the same pattern in general, this can create a table top 12 with generally uniform characteristics, such as strength, rigidity and structural integrity.
Channels 122 can have a variety of different lengths. For example, some of the channels 122 may have a length that allows only a limited number of depressions 124, as many as three, to be arranged in the lower portion 126. Other channels 122 may have a longer length that allows a greater number of depressions 124 is arranged in the lower portion 126, as ten or twelve. In addition, other channels 122 can extend from one end to the other end of table top 12. It will be appreciated that channels 122 can be of any suitable length.
The channels 122 can be dimensioned, formed, configured or organized to increase the strength, stiffness, structural integrity and / or torsion resistance of the table top 12. For example, the channels 122 can have opposite walls 128, 130 and opposite walls they can increase the strength, stiffness, structural integrity and / or torsion resistance of table top 12. The lower portion 126 of the channel can also be spread out close to the upper surface 62 and can increase the stiffness, force, structural integrity and / or strength the twist of the table top 10.
The channels 122 are preferably arranged on both sides of a structural support element, such as the transversal elements, 38, 40. In particular, the channels 122 preferably extend through a recess in the cross element, such as the first and the second recesses of the transverse elements 112, 114 pass through both sides of the recess of the transverse element. In addition, a depression can be arranged at an intersection of one or more of the channels 122 and the recess of the cross member. In addition, the ends of the channels 122 are preferably arranged close to a portion of the table top 12 which is not directly supported by the frame 36. For example, the ends of the channels122 can be arranged close to the ends 26 of the table top 12, which they can extend beyond the ends of the side rails 42, 4 4 and the elementostransversals, 38, 40. In particular, a first end of each channel 122 of the plurality of channels can be arranged close to a first end of the table top and the ends of the channels can generally be blown away at a distance equal to that of the first end of the table top. The channels 122 can also have different lengths. Advantageously, the channels 122 and the depressions 124 can increase the strength, strength, stiffness and / or structural integrity next to the structural support elements and accompanying recesses and the ends 26 of the table top 12. Significantly, this can prevent the ends 26 of the table top 12 rotate or move downwardly relative to the cross member, 38, 40 and / or ends of the frame 36, which can increase the resistance to the top of the table top 12.
As seen in figures 18 and 19, the lower surface 68 can be blown away at a generally constant distance from the upper surface 62 so that the table top 12 has a generally constant height or thickness. The various structures arranged on the lower surface 68 on the table top 12 can have different heights. For example, the recesses of the cross member 112, 114, 116 may have a height that is slightly less than the thickness of the table top 12. The receiving portion of the frame 74 may have a height that is less than the thickness of the table top. table 12 and the height of the recess of the cross member 112. The lower portion 126 of the channels 122 can also have a height that is less than the thickness of the table top 12 and the height of the recess of the cross member 112. As shown in the attached figures, the height of the receiving portion of frame 74 and channel 122 can be approximately the same. Thus, the height of the recess of the cross member 112, 114, 116 can be between the height of the receiving portion of the frame 74 and the channel 122. Because the height of the receiving portion of the frame 74 and the channel 122 may be the same, and because the receiving portion of the frame may include reinforcement elements 72, 82 and the channel may include depressions 124, the upper surface 62 of table top 12 may in general have similar characteristics, such as strength, stiffness and structural integrity.
In this exemplary configuration, the uniforms surface is supported, which may allow the table top to generally have consistent characteristics and qualities, such as strength, stiffness, structural integrity and smoothness of the upper surface. It will be appreciated that table 10 and table top 12 may also have other characteristics, aspects, suitable and similar configurations, such as disclosed in American patent application serial number 13 / 455.076, entitled TABLE WITH MOLDED PLASTIC TABLE TOP, deposited in 24 April 2012; and in American patent application serial number 13 / 455,081, entitled TABLE TOP, filed on April 24, 2012. Each of these patent applications is incorporated by reference, in its entirety.
A person skilled in the art, after reviewing this disclosure, will realize that the tables revealed here can have different aspects, characteristics and configurations. In addition, a table can have any suitable number of aspects, characteristics, properties and configurations depending, for example, on the use of the table.
Although this invention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments have become apparent to those skilled in the art and will also be within the scope of this invention. Therefore, it is intended that the scope of the invention is defined by the claims that follow.

权利要求:
Claims (14)
[0001]
1. Table top (12) dimensioned and configured to fit with an identical adjacent table (10) to reduce the height of a plurality of stacked tables (10) in an embedded configuration, the table top (12) being constructed molded plastic, the table top (12) FEATURED by the fact that it comprises: an upper surface (62); an edge (20) comprising an outer wall and an inner side wall (84); at least one receiving portion (90) partially arranged on the upper surface (62) and on the outer edge wall (20), the receiving portion (90) being a groove or channel with a height and width, the receiving portion (90) being arranged on an external perimeter (18 ) of the table top, the receiving portion (90) receiving a coupling portion (92) from an adjacent table (10) when the tables (10) are arranged in an interlocking configuration; a lower portion (16); A plurality of reinforcement elements (94) arranged in the lower portion (16) of the table top (12) supporting the receiving portion (90), each reinforcement element (94) of the plurality of reinforcement elements (94), including an inner portion (96) that supports an inner portion (98) of the receiving portion (90); the upper surface (62), the receiving portion (90), the lower portion (16), the edge (20) and the plurality of reinforcement elements (94) being integrally formed during a molding process as part of a unit, built in a single handle; in which the reinforcement elements (94) extend inward or horizontally in relation to the lower portion (16) of the table top (12); where the reinforcement elements (94) are arranged on the inner side wall (84) of the edge (20) and have a curved or arched configuration; in which the internal portion (96) of the elements reinforcement (94) comes into contact with the internal portion (98) of the receiving portion (90); and in that an internal surface of the reinforcement elements (94) is spaced in relation to the outer edge wall (20).
[0002]
2. Table top (12) according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the upper surface (62) is formed by an external wall of the molded plastic table top (12) and the lower portion (16) and formed by the outer wall of the molded plastic table top (12), wherein the receiving portion (90) is formed on the outer wall of the molded plastic table top (12); and in that the plurality of reinforcement elements (94) is formed on the outer wall of the molded plastic table top (12).
[0003]
Table top (12) according to claim 1 or 2, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the receiving portion (90) is arranged on a perimeter (18) of the upper surface (62) of the table top (12).
[0004]
4. Table top (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the table top (12) is constructed of blow-molded plastic and the upper surface (62), the receiving portion (90), the lower portion (16), the edge (20) and the plurality of reinforcement elements (94) are integrally formed as part of a unit, built in a single handle during the blow molding process.
[0005]
5. Table top (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the receiving portion (90) is arranged between a piano aligned with the top surface (62) of the table top (12 ) and a piano aligned with the bottom surface (68) of the table top (12); and in that the plurality of reinforcement elements (94) is arranged between the piano aligned with the upper surface (62) of the table top (12) and the piano aligned with the lower surface (68) of the table top (12).
[0006]
6. Table top (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it additionally comprises an upper portion of the reinforcement elements (94) that comes into contact with the internal portion (98) of the portion receiver (90).
[0007]
7. Table top (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that one or more of the reinforcement elements (94) extends into the lower portion (16) of the table top ( 12) and comes into contact with the receiving portion (90).
[0008]
8. Table top (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that one or more of the reinforcement elements (94) extends upwards from the bottom portion (16) of the top table (12) and comes into contact with the receiving portion (90).
[0009]
9. Table top (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that one or more of the reinforcement elements (94) extend into the inner side wall (84) of the edge (20 ) and an upper portion of one or more reinforcement elements (94) comes into contact with the inner surface of the receiving portion (90); and when one or more of the reinforcement elements (94) extends upwards from the bottom portion (16) of the table top (12) and comes in contact with the receiving portion (90).
[0010]
10. Table top (12) according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the plurality of reinforcement elements (94) comprises: a first plurality of reinforcement elements disposed along a first portion of the table top ( 12), each reinforcement element of the first plurality of reinforcement elements including an internal portion dimensioned and configured to support an internal portion of the receiving portion (90); In a second plurality of reinforcement elements arranged along a second portion of the table top (12), each reinforcement element of the second plurality of reinforcement elements including an internal portion dimensioned and configured to support an internal portion of the receiving portion (90 ).
[0011]
11. Table top (12) according to claim 10, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the first plurality of reinforcement elements is arranged along one side (22) of the table top (12) and the second plurality of elements reinforcement and arranged in a corner (24) of the table top (12).
[0012]
12. Table top (12) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by the fact that the first plurality of reinforcement elements extends into the inner side wall (84) of the edge (20) of the table top (12); and in that the inner portion of the first plurality of reinforcement elements comes into contact with the inner portion (98) of the receiving portion (90).
[0013]
13. Table top (12) according to any of claims 10 to 12, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the second plurality of reinforcement elements extends upwards from the bottom portion (16) of the table top (12 ); and in that an internal portion of the second plurality of reinforcement elements comes into contact with the internal portion of the receiving portion (90).
[0014]
14. Table top (12) according to any one of claims 10 to 13, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the first plurality of reinforcement elements is arranged parallel to the lower portion (16) of the table top (12); and wherein the second plurality of reinforcement elements is arranged perpendicular to the lower portion (16) of the table top (12).

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US9763517B2|2017-09-19|Table with nesting table top

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US20120266791A1|2012-10-25|Table top

---

EP2701549B1|2017-06-28|Table with molded plastic table top

---

ES2608693T3|2017-04-12|Table

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USRE48976E1|2022-03-22|Table with molded plastic table top

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AU2020294334B2|2022-03-03|Table with molded plastic table top

---

EP2701552B1|2018-07-11|Table with molded plastic table top

---

ES2661503T3|2018-04-02|Tabletop

同族专利:

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公开号 | 公开日

---

CA2819028C|2018-09-18|

---

AU2012249780A1|2013-07-11|

---

CA2819028A1|2012-11-01|

---

WO2012149063A1|2012-11-01|

---

US9138050B2|2015-09-22|

---

AU2012249780B2|2016-04-14|

---

MX350904B|2017-09-25|

---

US9730514B2|2017-08-15|

---

US20120266790A1|2012-10-25|

---

US20160324316A1|2016-11-10|

---

MX2013007063A|2013-07-29|

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法律状态:
2018-12-18| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|

---

2020-03-31| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|

---

2020-08-11| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|

---

2020-11-24| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 25/04/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

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2022-02-15| B21F| Lapse acc. art. 78, item iv - on non-payment of the annual fees in time|Free format text: REFERENTE A 10A ANUIDADE. |

优先权:

---

申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

---

US201161478786P| true| 2011-04-25|2011-04-25|

---

US201161478879P| true| 2011-04-25|2011-04-25|

---

US61/478,879|2011-04-25|

---

US29/390,471|USD659450S1|2011-04-25|2011-04-25|Table top surface and edge|

---

US29/390,471|2011-04-25|

---

US201161531081P| true| 2011-09-05|2011-09-05|

---

US61/531,081|2011-09-05|

---

US201161543277P| true| 2011-10-04|2011-10-04|

---

US61/543,277|2011-10-04|

---

US13/455,076|2012-04-24|

---

US13/455,076|US9138050B2|2011-04-25|2012-04-24|Table with molded plastic table top|

---

PCT/US2012/035058|WO2012149063A1|2011-04-25|2012-04-25|Table with molded plastic table top|

---