Retractable table structure
AssigneesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
InventorsMichael Paul Rowe, Danil V. Prokhorov
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A table structure includes a table top structured to be configurable to a retracted configuration and to a fully deployed configuration for use. At least one shape memory material (SMM) member is operably connected to the table top such that energization of the SMM member configures the table top to the fully deployed configuration and de-energization of the at least one SMM member enables configuration of the table top the retracted configuration. The table structure may be incorporated into a wall of a vehicle as an optional, retractable accessory.
Claims19
A table structure comprising:
- a table top structured to be configurable to a retracted configuration and to a fully deployed configuration, the table top having a lattice structure including:
- a first base member rotatably connected to a mounting structure;
- and
- a second base member rotatably connected to the mounting structure so as to enable the second base member to move in a direction toward the first base member during configuration of the table top to the retracted configuration, the second base member also extending parallel to the first base member;
- and
- at least one shape memory material (SMM) member operably connected to the table top such that energization of the at least one SMM member configures the table top to the fully deployed configuration and de-energization of the at least one SMM member enables configuration of the table top the retracted configuration.
A table structure comprising:
- a table top structured to be configurable to a retracted configuration and to a fully deployed configuration;
- at least one shape memory material (SMM) member operably connected to the table top such that energization of the at least one SMM member configures the table top to the fully deployed configuration and de-energization of the at least one SMM member enables configuration of the table top the retracted configuration, the table top including a lattice structure having at least:
- a first base member rotatably connected to a mounting structure;
- a second base member rotatably connected to the mounting structure and structured to extend parallel to the first base member;
- a first connecting member rotatably connected to both of the first and second base members;
- and
- a second connecting member rotatably connected to both of the first and second base members and extending parallel to the first connecting member,
- wherein the SMM member is operably connected to a remote exterior intersection of the lattice structure spaced farthest from an opening formed in the mounting structure through which the SMM member passes.
A table structure comprising:
- a table top structured to be configurable to a retracted configuration and to a fully deployed configuration;
- and
- at least one shape memory material (SMM) member operably connected to the table top such that energization of the at least one SMM member configures the table top to the fully deployed configuration and de-energization of the at least one SMM member enables configuration of the table top the retracted configuration;
- and
- a rotatable roller structured to contact and support a portion of the SMM member during operation of the table structure.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.