Foldable table.

(57) Summary

The present invention relates to a folding table comprising: a table surface that defines an outer perimeter when viewed from a top plane view, where when viewed from the top plane view, the table surface comprises a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a third side extending from the first side to the second side, a fourth side opposite the third side and extending from the first side to the second side, a first receiving portion disposed on the first side, wherein the first receiving portion defines a first axis of rotation and a first radial direction that is radial to the first axis of rotation, a second receiving portion disposed on the first side, wherein the second receiving portion defines a second axis of rotation and a second radial direction that is radial to the second axis of rotation, a third receiving portion disposed on the second side, wherein the third receiving portion defines a third axis of rotation and a third radial direction that is radial to the third axis of rotation, a fourth receiving portion arranged on the second side, wherein a fourth receiving portion defines a fourth axis of rotation and a fourth radial direction that is radial to the fourth axis of rotation, wherein the first radial direction and the second radial direction diverge from each other in a direction away from the table surface and converge in a direction towards the second side, and where the third radial direction and the fourth radial direction diverge from each other in a direction away from the table surface and converge in a direction towards the first side; and a leg attached to each of the first, second, third, and fourth receiving portions, wherein the leg comprises a head portion and an extension portion, wherein the head portion rotates about the axis of rotation, and along the radial direction, of the respective receiving portion, from a folded position to an extended position, where, both in the folded position and the extended position, the radial directions along which the head portions of the legs of the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion rotate, diverge from each other in a direction away from the table surface, where, both in the folded position and the extended position, the radial directions along which the head portions of the legs of the third and the fourth receiving portion rotate, diverge from each other in a direction away from the table surface, wherein, in the folded position, the extension portion is contained within the outer perimeter of the table surface in plan view, where, in the extended position, the extension portion extends beyond the outer perimeter of the table surface in the respective radial direction in plan view, wherein the table surface defines a recessed storage compartment that is recessed relative to an upper surface of the table surface and that extends longitudinally adjacent to the third portion of the table surface in a direction from the first receiving portion towards the second side of the table surface, where, on a lower side of the table surface, the recessed storage compartment has an outer side wall substantially parallel to the third side, an inner side wall substantially parallel to the third side, and a horizontal bottom surface that extends between the outer side wall and the inner side wall, wherein the portion of extension of the leg attached to the first receiving portion defines a longitudinal hollow cavity, and wherein in the folded position the storage compartment lowered from the table surface is disposed within the hollow cavity of the leg extension portion attached to the first receiving portion so that the leg extension portion attached to The first receiving portion is arranged on the outer wall side, the inner side wall and the horizontal bottom surface of the recessed storage compartment.

(57) Abstract

A foldable table (100) configured to provide a stable operational position in which the table legs (102) may extend beyond the footprint of the table (100), and a folded ,. storage position in which the table legs (102) may be tucked within the footprint of the table. An aspect provides table legs (102) that may slide and pivot within sockets (112) of a table top (104), to enable the legs (102) to lock into the extended position and to also pivot fíat against a horizontal undersurface of the table top (104).

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IMPI

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<img file="MX354236B_D0001.tif" />

PATENT TITLE No. 354236

Owner (s): MEGA BRANDS INC.

Address: 4505 Hickmore, H4T 1K4, Montreal, Quebec, CANADA

Denomination: FOLDABLE TABLE.

Classification:

CIP:

CPC:

A47B3 / 08

A47B ^ / O8Q9.

Inventor (s):

Number: \

MX / a / 2017/000 ^ 90

DOMINIQUE ROY; THIERRY BEAUREGARÓ^v

Country:

US

US

Validity: váihíeí years,

<img file="MX354236B_D0002.tif" />

nstlt ^ MM ^^^ MSi

Date of A ^ ¿íigientM ^ .dlMaeró cfé'íó ^ Date of Efta | ^ tion »lh 2018 l &lt;W^9a with rrwd

The reference patent fl

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International:

2010 .

Number:

61 / Í47.298

12 / QJB1.249

In accordance with the date of

Who subscribes to this λϊΙΚμ (Official Gazette of the Federation 01/25/2006, 06/05/2009, 06/01/201

Regulation of the Mexican Institute articles 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th fraction V incr 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002, 29/0 'Deputy Generals, Coordinator, Departmental Dlrecti and other subordinates of li 04 / 08/2004 and 13/09/2007).

Law of the Pi solK ^ | tM ,, internaci &lt;^^. n fund

27 / ^ 19ftUjeform J.2B / 06I

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from la Leytfé la Pcopie, twenty puppet rrenyter vlger ^ slóM B &amp; lll and 7 ° bis 2 di

Industrial.

orrogables, counted to 6hos.

_ ______of Industrial Property # 96/1999 (01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, teciso a), 4th and 12th sections I and III of the 2004 », 07/28/2004 and 7/09 / 2007); of Industrial Property (DO F. delegates powers to the Directors fes, Deputy Divisional Directors, Coordinators 12/1999. amended on 04/02/2000, 07/29/2004,

W n basis in articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3rd of

This document is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FAITHFUL), with its Regulations, and 1 section III, 2 section V, 26 BIS and 26 TER of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Electronic Payment and Services Portal (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.

THE DIVISIONAL PATENT DIRECTOR

NAHANNY CANAL REYES

<img file="MX354236B_D0005.tif" />

Original string;

NAHANNY MARISOL CANAL REYES | 00001000000403252793 | Tax Administration Service | 1695 || MX / 2018/14859 | MX / a / 2017/000690 | Normal patent title with divisional PCT | 1223) GAGV | Page (s) 1 6IV9P1 DCL + 9qX8tqFDSrM0 + LNyM =

Digital stamp:

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R3ANLt + djmTj8AtvCQ22q8Oz3gbAXxKtoFE8wNJSpc0AKbMsyrb1xMY + AvL1sA3UP0 / CR4k / L0HpblLuWjz40EDBbb m1KM3rtOFtmYECHyUVxO9K1n8JPJJWJJWJJJJJJJJJJWJJWJWJWJWJWJWJWJWJWJWJWJWJWJWXW04

Arenal No. 550 Floor 1, Santa María Tepepan Town, Xochimilco, 16020, Mexico City.

(55) 53340700 www.gob.mx/impi

<img file="MX354236B_D0006.tif" />

<img file="MX354236B_D0007.tif" />

This application claims the benefit of the provisional US patent application No. 61 / 147,298, filed on January 26, 2009, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates in general to folding tables and, more specifically, to a folding table that provides legs with better stability and a work surface or game assembled by the user.

Background of the invention

Tables with removable or foldable legs offer a work or play surface that can be easy to transport, install, disassemble and store. To provide this portability, these tables are often made of lightweight materials such as plastic. However, the use of lightweight materials presents the challenge of providing a table that is robust, strong and durable enough for the intended use. Therefore, product designers strive to find the right balance to provide a portable and lightweight table that is strong enough to withstand the rigors of its use.

SUMMARY

<img file="MX354236B_D0008.tif" />

MEXICAN PROPERTY INSTITUTE

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX354236B_D0009.tif" />

The present invention presents a folding table qua ..... as, t, á.

configured to provide greater stability when the table legs are placed in an extended position. For example, the folding table may comprise a folding table for children's games.

In one aspect, a folding table may include a table surface defined by an outer perimeter when viewed from a top view. When viewed from the top view, the table may comprise a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a first receiving portion, a second receiving portion, a third receiving portion and a fourth receiving portion. The first receiving portion may be arranged on the first side and may define a first axis of rotation and a first radial direction that is radial to the first axis of rotation. The second receiving portion may be arranged on the first side and may define a second axis of rotation and a second radial direction that is radial to the second axis of rotation. The third receiving portion may be arranged on the second side and may define a third axis of rotation and a third radial direction that is radial to the third axis of rotation. The fourth receiving portion may be arranged on the second side and may define a fourth axis of rotation and a fourth radial direction that is radial to the fourth axis of rotation. The first radial direction and the second radial direction may diverge from each other in a direction away from the table surface and may converge in a direction towards the second side. The third radial direction and the fourth radial direction may,. . ,,,. . ,, - MEXICAN INSTITUTE diverge from each other in a direction away from the n £ u®¡é «i &amp; ic^J industrial ÍPISa

MEXICAN ipeettKb c re »ua @

INDUSTRIAL nrr, w table and can converge in a direction to the first side.

A leg may be connected to each of the first, second, third and fourth receiving portions. The leg may include a head portion and an extension portion. The head portion may rotate about the axis of rotation, and along the radial direction, of the respective receiving portion, from a folded position to an extended position. In the folded position, the extension portion may be contained within the outer perimeter of the table surface in the top view. In the extended position, the extension portion may extend beyond the outer perimeter of the table surface in the respective radial direction in the top view.

In another aspect, the first radial direction may be substantially parallel to the third radial direction and the second radial direction may be substantially parallel to the fourth radial direction.

In another aspect, when viewed from the top view 20, the first radial direction, the second radial direction, the third radial direction and the fourth radial direction may be at an angle of a horizontal line drawn from the first side to the second side. and the angle can be within a range of about 5 to 20 degrees.

&gt; In another aspect, when viewed from the top view, the first side and the second side may extend in a vertical direction Y and may be opposite each other in a horizontal direction X, and in the extended position, the portion of extension can extend beyond the outer perimeter of the table surface, as in the Y direction.

<img file="MX354236B_D0010.tif" />

In another aspect, the folding table may further include a handle member that extends between the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion, and defines an opening on the first side of the table.

In another aspect, the head portion of the leg may comprise a post. The first receiving portion may define a groove that generally extends radially to the first axis of rotation. The slot can have a first lower end and a second upper end when the folding table is viewed from a side view. The post of the head portion may be arranged in and slidably within the groove. In the folded position, the post may be arranged at the first lower end of the groove and the head portion may rotate within the first receiving portion. In the extended position, the post may be disposed at the second upper end of the groove and the head portion may be rotatably fixed within the first receiving portion.

In another aspect, the head portion may have a first contact surface and an interior of the first receiving Provision may have a second contact surface. In the extended position, the first contact surface and the second contact surface may contact each other to prevent rotation of the head portion within the first receiving portion.

ΙΜΡΙ

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF THE FMOPIEDAD

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX354236B_D0011.tif" />

In another aspect, the first receiving portion may define an opening with a projection. The head portion may have an elastic flange, which, in the extended position, may be disposed within the opening and against the protrusion to prevent movement of the head portion in the first receiving portion.

In another aspect, the first receiving portion may comprise a first face generally perpendicular to the first axis of rotation and a second face opposite the first face and generally perpendicular to the first axis of rotation. The first face can define a first opening and the second face can define a second opening. The head portion of the leg may comprise a first elastic tab that is disposed within the first opening when the leg is in the extended position and rests against a first projection of the first opening, and a second elastic tab that is disposed within of the second opening when the leg is in the extended position and rests against a second projection of the second opening. The first elastic flange and the second elastic flange may be temporarily deflectable such that a first force applied to the first elastic flange deflects the first elastic flange such that the first elastic flange releases the first protrusion and a second force applied to the second elastic tab deflects the second elastic tab so that the second releases the second protrusion, at which point the head portion of the leg can move in a direction away from the receiving portion.

IMPI

In another aspect, when the table is observed '

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX354236B_D0012.tif" />

laterally, the table surface may comprise a recessed portion that may be recessed relative to an upper surface of the table surface and may be adjacent to the first receiving portion. The post of the head portion may be arranged at the lower end to pivot the leg such that the leg extension portion can be placed almost parallel to a horizontal lower surface of the recessed portion.

In another aspect, the leg extension portion may define a hollow cavity, where in the folded position, the recessed portion of the table surface may be disposed within the hollow cavity of the extension portion.

In another aspect, the table surface can define a channel between an outer wall of the table surface and the recessed portion of the table surface. The channel can extend between the first side and the second side. The leg extension portion may have an outer wall and a transverse wall that is transverse to the outer wall. In the folded position, the outer wall can be arranged inside the channel and the transverse wall can be arranged against the lower horizontal surface of the recessed portion.

In another aspect, when viewed from a side view, the table surface may comprise a recessed portion that can be recessed from an upper surface of the table surface. The folding table may further comprise a removable plate that covers the recessed portion.

Ί you can define rebate. The pedestal

In another aspect, the pedestal table within the portion can rest on the portion of

SmarropoEoáóVí. FROM THE PROPiHPAÜ V χ INDUSTRIAL plate removed

In another aspect, when viewed from a side view, the table surface may comprise a recessed portion that can be recessed from an upper surface of the table surface. The recessed portion may comprise a perimeter platform and a pedestal portion in an interior location of the recessed portion. The folding table may comprise a plurality of removable plates covering the recessed portion. Each removable plate of the plurality of removable plates can rest on the perimeter platform and the pedestal portion. The folding table may further comprise a safety that ensures the plurality of removable plates to the pedestal portion.

In another aspect, for each removable plate, the table may include a tab disposed on each removable plate that secures each removable plate to the table surface.

In another aspect, each removable plate may include a plurality of construction posts configured to receive toy building blocks.

In another aspect, the table and legs can be made of plastic.

In another aspect a folding table is provided that includes a table surface having a set of four receiving portions and a set of four legs that are configured to be assembled within a receiving portion,. , Mexican institute y'k '-' tN ', i corresponding. When each of the cu at j? G? T assembles into a corresponding receiving portion, each leg may be configured to rotate under the table surface in a storage position and to rotate out of the table surface into a position of functioning. In the operating position, the lower part of each leg may extend outwardly so as not to be directly under the table surface. Consequently, in the operating position, the folding table may have greater mechanical stability.

In another aspect, each receiving portion may comprise a slot configured to provide a sliding movement of a corresponding folding leg with respect to each receiving portion. In the operating position, the folding leg may be arranged relatively upwardly within the groove. In the operating position, the folding leg can prevent rotation around each receiving portion. When the folding leg is arranged relatively downward within the slot, the folding leg may be configured to freely rotate in the storage position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components of the figures are not necessarily to scale, instead the emphasis is on illustrating the principles of the invention. On the other hand, in the figures, similar reference numbers designate corresponding parts through the different views.

'· Τ ..

MEXICAN INSTITUTE AND

Figure 1.1 is a schematic diagram seen in perspective of an embodiment of a folding table in an operating position, with the legs in an extended position.

Figure 1.2 is a schematic diagram showing a top view of the folding table shown in Figure 1.1.

Figure 1.3 is a schematic diagram showing a bottom perspective view of the folding table shown in Figure 1.1.

Figure 1.4 is a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of a folding table in an operating position in which the table legs are secured in place in an extended position.

Figure 1.5 is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of the folding table of Figure 1.4 in an extended position.

Figure 1.6 is a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of the folding table - of Figure 1.4 in a folded position.

Figure 1.7 is a schematic diagram showing a top view of a table surface, to illustrate an embodiment of the orientation of the receiving portion.

Figure 2.1 is a schematic diagram showing a top perspective view of an embodiment of the table surface of the folding table of Figure 1.1.

Figures 2.2 and 2.3 are depicted perspective table views of Figure 2.1.

lower diagrams of

<img file="MX354236B_D0013.tif" />

the surface ae

Figures 3.1 and 3.2 are schematic diagrams showing a perspective view of the modality of a first and a second table leg of the folding table represented in Figure 1.1.

Figures 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5 are schematic diagrams showing a bottom perspective view, a side view and an end view, respectively, of the first table leg shown in Figure 3.1.

Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an exploded view of an embodiment of the construction of a table and safe surface.

Figures 5.1 to 5.4 are schematic diagrams showing an embodiment of a table leg secured in place in an extended position, where Figure 5.1 represents a top view, Figures 5.2 and 5.3 represent partial cross-sectional cut views through lines AA of Figure 5.1, and Figure 5.4 represents a partial side view.

Figures 6.1 and 6.2 are schematic diagrams showing an embodiment of a table leg moved towards a release position, where Figure 6.1 represents a partial cross-sectional view that generally corresponds to the view of Figure 5.2 and Figure 6.2 represents a partial side view.

<img file="MX354236B_D0014.tif" />

I⁵

INSTITUTO MEXICANO figures 7.1 and 7.2 are diagrams esqi3Yes1j ^^ í_TO^ s ^^^^ 'An embodiment of a table leg turned in a fold, where Figure 7.1 represents a partial cross-sectional view corresponding to the view of Figure 5.2 and Figure 7.2 represents partial side.

They show general cutting position at a glance

Figure 8.1 is a schematic diagram of an isometric view of another embodiment of the table leg secured in place within a receiving portion in an extended position, with elastic leg tabs arranged on the faces of the receiving portion that are generally perpendicular to the pivot axis of the leg.

Figure 8.2 is a schematic diagram of a top view of the table leg and receiving portion shown in Figure 8.1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Figures 1.1 to 1.3 represent views of one embodiment of a folding table (100) placed in an operating configuration. The term folding table, as used herein, generally refers to a table that has components that are configured to fold against each other, such as the legs that fold toward a table surface pivoting around a pivot post in a receiving portion . Among other features, the folding table (100) can include a table surface (104) and four legs (102). As shown in the embodiment shown in figures 1.1 to 1.3, the folding table (100) can be configured to fit a playing surface

<img file="MX354236B_D0015.tif" />

INSTITUTO MEXICANO, - '1' · detachable (106), as described more aa-eApajTOer ,. For example, the removable playing surface may be a surface that includes vehicle tracks, such as train tracks. In some embodiments, the table surface (104) may be configured for use with water or sand. In other embodiments, the table surface (104) can provide a flat table surface, such as a practically flat surface (for example, a desk surface, a dry erase marker panel surface or a slate surface) .

In the following description, similarly but not necessarily identical, the characteristics may be referred to by the same reference number. For example, the table surface (104) and legs (102) of the table (100) represented in Figures 1.1 to 1.3 are similar, but differ slightly, their counterparts represented in Figures 1.4 to 1.6.

The table (100) may include adaptations that facilitate both improved mechanical stability, as well as portability. As shown in the top view of Figure 1.2, the lower portion (103) (distal portion) of each of the legs (102) may extend outward, so as not to be directly under the table surface (104 ). This configuration can provide greater stability to the table (100), in comparison to the table structures in which the legs are substantially orthogonal to the table surface and in which the lower portion of each of the legs does not extend substantially out of the shade of the table, when viewed in a top view.

ΙΑ

<img file="MX354236B_D0016.tif" />

As described below, the table (1

INDUSTUAL include adaptations for folding and securing the folding legs (102) in a storage position and for keeping the legs (102) in a stable operating position. Figures 1.4 to 1.6 describe the general aspects of the operation of a modality of a folding and securing mechanism. In Figure 1.4, the legs (102) extend in an operating position. In Figure 1.5, the legs (102) are in a release position after being pulled down with respect to receiving portions (112) and the table surface (104) (as represented by the arrows (111) ), freeing the legs (102) from the securing position. In Figure 1.6, the legs (102) are in a folded position, in which the legs are turned inwards after being in the release position. It should be noted that the term leg (102) refers to a leg in a set of legs in which the characteristics of each leg are generally the same, unless the symmetry of the characteristics may vary between the legs. In other words, for example, one leg (102) may be a mirror image of another leg (102).

The table surface (104) may have a substantially square shape as seen in a top view, as in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1.2. Of course, other shapes (for example, rectangular) and lateral contours are possible. For example, the table surface (104) may include non-linear sides, such as the sides that bend outwards. The table surface (104) may also include handles, such as a set of two handles (114) located between their respective pairs of receiving portions

IMPI £ 7

MEXICAN INSTITUTE (112), for example, as shown in the figures^wii3m5K55¡ |

The handle (114) can define an opening between the handle (114) and the table surface (104), as shown, which can accommodate the fingers of a user. The sides of the table surface (104) can also be curved when viewed from the side, such as the curved side (105) shown in Figures 1.1 and 1.3.

Referring also to Figures 2.1 to 2.3, the table surface (104) may comprise a three-dimensional shape having a recessed portion (110) whose sides (117) define a substantially square shape. The recessed portion (110) may also include a central pedestal portion (118). The recessed portion (110) may be configured to accommodate a game table surface, such as the game surface (106) illustrated in the figures

1.1 to 1.3.

In a top view, as indicated in Figure 1.2, the receiving portions (112) may extend at an angle to the sides (117), such that the legs (102) extend beyond the shadow of the table surface (104), in both directions X and Y. The table surface (104) and the legs (102) can each comprise a high strength plastic molding, made, for example, by a process of simple injection molding. In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 3.4, an angle (311) formed by the legs (102) may comprise about 10 to 20 degrees with respect to a vertical line (313) orthogonal to a horizontal surface (315) in which the table (100) can be placed in an operating position. In

Il J *. F*

INSTITUTE MSxiGANt · fc ^ '· ”·. ^' '' '· One modality, the angle (311) can be about

This configuration may allow the table (100) to pass an inflection test in which the table is held to the right when a force of 50 kg is applied on the table surface when the table surface is on a 15 degree slope with with respect to the horizontal, and pass an overload test when a force of 80 kg is applied to the table surface when the table (100) rests on a flat and horizontal surface.

By extending the legs (102) beyond the shadow of a table surface (104) to provide greater mechanical stability, some embodiments may include adaptations to orient the receiving portions (112) with respect to the others. Figure 1.7 illustrates an orientation modality of the receiving portion. As shown in the top view of Figure 1.7, a table surface (104) can define an outer perimeter (170) and include a first side (171), a second side (172) opposite the first side (171), and a plurality of receiving portions (173.1), (173.2), (173.3) and (173.4). As noted, the first receiving portion (173.1) may be arranged on the first side (171) and may define a first axis of rotation (174.1) and a first radial direction (175.1) that is radial to the first axis of rotation (174.2 ). The second receiving portion (173.2) may be arranged on the first side (171) and may define a second axis of rotation (174.2) and a second radial direction (175.2) that is radial to the second axis of rotation (174.2). The third receiving portion (173.3) may be arranged on the second side (172) and may define a third axis of rotation (174.3) and a third radial direction (175.3) that is radial

IMP _____ to the third axis of rotation (174.3). The fourth

INOUSTRMí (173.4) can be arranged on the second side (172) and can define a fourth axis of rotation (17 4.4¹) ”And 'a ......... uuü&gt; hka»_M radial direction (175.4) that is radial to the fourth axis of rotation (174.4).

To provide external positioning of the legs (102), as shown, the first radial direction (175.1) and the second radial direction (175.2) can diverge from each other in a direction away from the table surface (104) and can converge in a direction to the second side (172). Similarly, the third radial direction (175.3) and the fourth radial direction (175.4) can diverge from each other in a direction away from the table surface (104) and can converge in a direction towards the first side (171). The legs (102) coupled to each of the receiving portions (173.1), (173.2), (173.3) and (173.4) each may include a head portion within the receiving portion and an extension portion extending from the receiving portion, with the head portion rotating around the axis of rotation, and along the radial direction, of the respective receiving portion, from a folded position to an extended position. In the folded position, the extension portion may be contained within the outer perimeter (170) of the table surface in the top view, and in the extended position, the extension portion of the legs (102) may extend beyond the outer perimeter (170) of the table surface (104) in the respective radial directions, as shown in the top view of Figure 1.7. In the modalities, the extension portion may extend beyond the outer perimeter.^3TSW_PWi7¿gd'éC '* lal,

INDUSTRIAL table surface (104) in the X direction and / or the Y direction.

To provide stability and balance to a folding table, some modalities provide a symmetrical arrangement of the receiving portions. For example, with reference to Fig. 1.7, a table surface (104) may have a symmetrical polygon shape with the receiving portions arranged symmetrically at the corners (in this case, symmetrical with respect to the Y axis). For the symmetry of the orientation of the receiving portions, the first radial direction (175.1) may be substantially parallel to the third radial direction (175.3) and the second radial direction (175.2) may be substantially parallel to the fourth radial direction (175.4) ). To provide desirable stability, in some embodiments, the first radial direction (175.1), the second radial direction (175.2), the third radial direction (175.3) and the fourth radial direction (175.4) may be at an angle of approximately 5 to 20 degrees to a horizontal line (such as the X axis) drawn from the first side (171) to the second side (172).

In some embodiments, the receiving portions of a table surface may also include adaptations for securing and releasing the legs. For example, with reference to Figures 1.1 to 1.6, each receiving portion (112) of the table surface (104) may include a pair of opposite elongated grooves (116) (eg, U-shaped grooves) arranged to accommodate to the legs (102) and to facilitate a movement of rotation and sliding of the legs (102) with respect to the table surface (104). Referring again wiPJ mtrmrromssxímw »·. - · to figure 1.1 (also refer to the variant figure of the receiving portion (112)), and also to the figure

3.3, the receiving portions (112) can accommodate a head portion (306) of the legs (102) by attaching posts (308) within the elongated grooves (116). Thus, by initially assembling the legs (102) and the table surface (104), the legs (102) can be conveniently inserted into the receiving portions (112) by flexing the receiving portions (112) to accommodate the posts (308 ) until the posts (308) fit into place within the elongated grooves (116) U-shaped. The head portion (306) and the grooves (116) may be configured such that the head portion (306) can slide up and down along the elongated grooves (116) in a U-shape.

In the operating position, as shown in the figure

1.1, the posts (308) may be arranged relatively upward in the elongated grooves (116) in a U-shape. Also with reference to Figures 2.2 and 3.3, in this configuration, the upper surface (307) of the head portion (306) may be very close to or leaning against a portion similar to the lower portion (125) of the receiving portion (112). In addition, the vertical surface (309) can rest adjacent to a vertical surface on the receiving portion (112). Therefore, the head portion (306) can be prevented from rotating with respect to the receiving portion (112).

Additionally, all the weight placed on the table surface (104) may tend to maintain the assured operating configuration illustrated in Figure 1.1.

IMPj

INSTITUTE M, .RX'CANO and- '. · '' '\

In some modalities, a receiving portion§^IT^ £ ^ $$$ ¡) P ^ ¿a ,,^j &gt; - /. · 'In cooperation can include only one slot and one post, instead of the two pairs shown in Figures 1.1 to 1.6 and 3.5, for example.

The receiving portions (112) may be configured such that each leg (102) can slide in a foldable position by sliding the head portion (306) down, where the post (308) slides towards the lower portion of the elongated groove (116). In the foldable position, the head portion (306) can be placed sufficiently far from the lower portion of the receiving portion (112), such that the flattened top surface (307) can rotate freely, allowing the head (306) rotate around the axis of the pivot post (308) inside the elongated groove (116). This configuration may allow the extension portions (304) of the legs (102) to rotate below the table surface (104).

In the mode shown in Figures 1.1 to 1.3 and 3.1 a

3.5, the legs (102) may be hollow and have a wider outer side (310), a narrower inner side (312) and a transverse side (322) between the sides (310) and (312). The wider outer side (310) can also contribute to the stability of the table (100). In some embodiments, the legs (102) may be shaped to fit completely within the shadow of the table surface (104) when folded. In some embodiments, the inner and outer sides of the legs (102) may be the same size.

With reference to Figures 2.2 and 2.3, which represent views from the bottom of the table surface (104),

I⁵

IMPIAii ·;

a shallow inner channel (120) may be⁰¹

MEXICAN INSTITUTE to accommodate the narrower inner side (312) of the leg (102), while a deeper outer channel (122) may be provided to accommodate the wider outer side (310) of the leg (102), when The leg (102) bends below the table surface (104). The open construction of the extension portion (304) of the leg (102) defines a hollow cavity (305) (refer to Figure 3.3) between the sides (310) and (312). Therefore, when folded, a recessed portion (121) (refer to Figures 2.2 and 2.3) can be arranged inside the hollow cavity; 305 'with the outer side (310) disposed inside the channel (122) , the inner side (312) disposed inside the channel (120) and the transverse side (322) disposed against the lower horizontal surface of the recessed portion (121). By providing the groove (116) in the receiving portion (112), it is possible to allow the pole (308) of the leg (102) to move to the lower end of the groove (116) so that the leg (102) can pivot to position the extension portion (304) of the leg (102) substantially parallel to the horizontal bottom surface of the recessed portion (121). This parallel arrangement can accommodate deep functional storage compartments on the table surface, while still allowing the leg to rest flat against the bottom of the table surface, thus providing a convenient, compact configuration of minimum depth, which It facilitates the transport and storage of the table surface when the legs are in the folded position. For example, a table surface may have functional storage compartments such as the recessed portions (117) and (121), while still allowing the legs (102) to be compact.

IMPI

MEXICAN INSTITUTE, save ^ iwS ^ Suína '

<img file="MX354236B_D0017.tif" />

Now, with reference to Figure 3.5, in one embodiment, the lower extension portion (304) of the leg (102) may be angled outward with respect to the vertical direction of the head portion (306). This configuration may cause the distal portion (317) of the leg (102) to extend further outward from the front of the table surface (104) which would be the case if the extension portion (304) were arranged parallel to the head (refer to the representative regions (191) in Figure 1.2), in addition to adding stability to the table (100).

In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 3.5, a leg (102) may include a securing mechanism (314) that can be configured to fit into a slot (124) provided in the receiving portion (112). This configuration can also prevent the movement of the leg (102) in the operating position, including the rotational movement and the movement in a downward direction of the receiving portion (112). Therefore, to release the legs (102) from the operating position, a user can simultaneously press on the mechanism (314) and pull down the leg (102). The securing mechanism (314) can be an elastic tab or button, for example.

i Figures 5.1 to 7.2 show more details of the operation of the modalities of an assurance and folding mechanism operable in a folding table. Also with reference to Figures 1.4 to 1.6, Figures 5.1 to 5.4 describe the configuration of a receiving portion (512) and leg on cte^- table (504) that usually correspond to the position¹

IMPIg;

INSTITUTE MRX'CAN !, - '

Ut IA PKOl'IEDMj table operation (100) which is nnipst-ra. an i_λ f.í gyi rg___________________

1.4; Figures 6.1 to 6.2 describe the configuration of the receiving portion and the leg corresponding to position j5 of the table shown in Figure 1.5, and Figures 7.1 to 7.2 describe the configuration of the receiving portion and the corresponding leg to the table position shown in figure 1.6.

Figure 5.1 shows the configuration of a table leg 10 (504) when secured in place in an extended position, in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 5.2 shows, in a cross-section according to line AA of Figure 5.1, the configuration of the leg (504) as it advances in the general direction represented - by the arrow (515) and secured in the receiving portion (512) of the table surface (501). A projection (506) in the upper part of the leg (504) can be coupled to a flange (508) in the receiving portion (512), preventing the rotation of the leg (504). An elastic flange (514) of the leg (504) can be deflected to pass through a projection (516) of the receiving portion (512).

Moreover, an upward movement of the leg (504) to the position shown in Figure 5.3, can cause the elastic flange (514) to fit into place within the opening (517) of the receiving portion (512) and be rest against the projection (516) in the opening (517), in addition to securing the movement leg (504), including the rotational movement and the downward movement away from the receiving portion (512). As shown in the partial view of Figure 5.4, in the securing position, the post (608)

IMPI Mexican iNsrrruro may be one point higher in the groove (616)

<img file="MX354236B_D0018.tif" />

Receiver (512)

Figures 6.1 to 6.2 describe the situation in which the leg (504) moves towards a release position with respect to the receiving portion (512) of the table surface (501). To reach this release position, The elastic flange (514) can be deflected inwardly so that its distal end (519) releases the projection (516), which allows the leg (504) to move in a general direction away from the receiving portion (512) , as represented by the arrow (521). In the release position, the leg (504) can rotate freely within the receiving portion (512). As shown in the partial view of Figure 6.2, in the release position, the post (608) may be at a lower point of the groove (616) of the receiving portion (512).

Figures 7.1 to 7.2 describe the situation in which the leg (504) is turned towards a folded position. As shown, the elastic flange (514) can rotate well to the projection (516) so that the leg (504) can be fitted under the table surface (501). As shown in the partial view of Figure 7.2, in the folded position, the post (608) may be at a lower point of the groove (616) of the receiving portion (512). The movement of the post (608) to the lowest point allows the leg (504) to pivot fully (for example, 90 degrees or more) to compactly store the flattened leg (504) against the bottom of the table surface (501).

VA J.VA to ϊ «« MEXICAN TJTOTO

Although figures 5.1 to 5.3, 6.1 and one embodiment of a receiving portion (512) in which an opening (517) (which cooperates with the elastic flange (514)) can be arranged on a face (523) of the receiving portion (512) which is generally parallel to the pivot axis of the receiving portion (512) and the leg (504), in alternative embodiments an opening may be placed in other locations and may include multiple openings. For example, with reference to Figure 5.1, an opening in the receiving portion cooperating with an elastic flange on the leg can be placed on one or both sides (525) and (527), which are generally perpendicular to the pivot axis of the receiving portion (512) and the leg (504). In some modalities, openings and elastic eyelashes in cooperation can be placed in multiple places, including faces parallel and perpendicular to the axis^—the pivot of the receiving portion and the leg, as well as the faces in the positions between parallel and perpendicular.

Figures 8.1 and 8.2 illustrate one embodiment of a receiving portion and the leg having two sets of openings and elastic tabs. As noted, the receiving portion (812) may include a first opening (814) on a first face (816) that may be generally perpendicular to the pivot axis of the receiving portion (812) and the leg (804), and a second opening (818) in a second face (820) which can be generally opposite the first face (816) and can also be generally perpendicular to the pivot axis of the receiving portion (812) and the leg (804). The receiving portion (812) may include a rounded third face (822), which may generally be parallel to the pivot axis of the portion

<img file="MX354236B_D0019.tif" />

&lt;

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Receiving Chi (812) and leg (804). The leg (804 ^ ί® «® ^ θ» Λΐ? Η &amp; 1ιιιχ&gt;

INfTlJSTItíAL a first elastic flange (826) and a second elastic flange (828) that can cooperate with the first opening (814p * "" "and the second opening (818), respectively. Similar to the opening mechanisms and elastic flange described with reference to Figures 5.1 to 7.2, the elastic tabs (826) and (828) may have a distal end (830) that cooperates with a projection (832) of the receiving portion (812). The elastic tabs (826) and (828) may also have flanges (834) that can provide a surface suitable for a user to hold the tabs with the user's fingers.

The opposite arrangement of the elastic eyelashes can also be convenient allowing the user to be able to grasp the opposite eyelashes with the thumb and the opposite finger at the same time, and tighten the eyelashes towards the other in a direction generally parallel to the pivot axis of the portion receiver (812) and leg (804). Figure 8.2 illustrates an embodiment of an opposite arrangement of the elastic eyelashes, which can be placed along a narrow section of the rounded third face (822).

By moving the leg (804) from a folded position in the securing position shown in the figures

8.1 and 8.2, the leg (804) can rotate around the posts (836), with the posts (836) in a lower position in the grooves (838). As the leg (804) is rotated, the elastic eyelashes (826) and (828) can be housed within the receiving portion (812). After the leg (804) is fully rotated, for example, such that the outer surface of the leg (804) makes contact with an inner surface of the receiving portion (812) (for example, similar to

<img file="MX354236B_D0020.tif" />

<img file="MX354236B_D0021.tif" />

INSTITUTO MEXICAHC '' γ the projection (506) attaching to the flange (508) in í ^ ^ ^ jgp ^ to the leg (804) can be moved up in the receiving portion (812) until the posts (836) meet in a higher position of the grooves (838), as shown in Figure 8.1. When the posts (836) reach the highest position, the elastic tabs (826) and (828) can deviate inwardly towards the others so that the distal ends (830) of the tabs (826) and (828) release the projections (832) of the receiving portion (812). After releasing the projections (832), the elastic tabs (826) and (828) can be fitted back with the distal ends (830) placed on the projections (832), thus securing the leg (804) in position inside of the receiving portion (812), and avoiding the movement of the leg (804), including the rotational movement and the movement in a downward direction generally moving away from the receiving portion (812). To release the leg (804), a user can conveniently squeeze the elastic tabs (826) and (828) towards the others so that the distal ends (830) release the projections (832), which allows the leg ( 804) slide down away from the receiving portion (812). The leg (804) can slide down until the posts (836) reach the lowest position in the grooves (838), at which time the leg (804) can rotate to bend under the table.

Figure 4 shows a detailed view of one embodiment of a playing surface (106), consisting of four playing surface plates (108). The playing surface plates (108) can be configured to hold the table surface (104) using the lock (402). The lock (402) can be configured to couple the breaks; internawa «Tm fix each plate (108) to the pedestal (118) (refer to figure 2.1). In some embodiments the lock (402) can be a threaded rod with a handle, which can be received within a corresponding threaded opening in the pedestal (118). In addition, as shown in Figure 2.1, the table surface (104) can include in each corner a flange (115) that is placed on top of an outer rest (406) of the plate (108), and platforms perimeters (119) on which the ends of the plates (108) can rest. As shown in the configuration of Figure 4, each play surface plates (108) may include a plurality of construction surfaces (408) (eg, posts) and a track (410). Thus, a user can mount the play surface plates (108) in the configuration shown in Figure 1.1 for use as a construction surface and play surface that can accommodate building blocks and vehicles, for example.

Although the modalities described in this document refer to the folding tables for children's games, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the constitution of the table surface and the constitution of the folding legs of the present invention can be applied to any number of standing structures, such as kitchen tables, dining tables, picnic tables, desks and chairs. Therefore, despite the specific benefits associated with the use of the present invention with children's game tables, the present invention should be considered in general terms applicable to any structure with folding members, such as legs.

IMPI «MEXICAN MSTITUTO DE LA NOFIEDAD

INDUSTRIAL

<img file="MX354236B_D0022.tif" />

The above description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms described. Many variations and modifications of the modalities described in this document will be apparent to a person skilled in the art in light of the above description. The scope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Furthermore, in describing the representative embodiments of the present invention, the description has presented the method and / or process of the present invention as a certain sequence of steps. However, to the extent that the method or process is not based on a particular order of the steps set forth in this dexcription, the method or process should not be limited to the particular sequence of steps described. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, other sequence of steps may be possible. Therefore, the particular order of the steps set out in the description should not be construed as limiting the claims. In addition, the claims directed to the method and / or process of the present invention should not be limited to performing their steps in the written order, and one skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the sequences can be varied and still remain within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

1.