Item of Furniture

Abstract

A chair comprises a substantially truncated cone-shaped support part and a substantially truncated cone-shaped seat part. The support part has a first support part end and a second support part end, wherein the first support part end is intended to be placed on a ground, and has a larger diameter than the second support part end. The seat part has a first seat part end and a second seat part end, wherein the first seat part end has a larger diameter than the second seat part end, and the second seat part end comprises a seat. The second support part end is connected to the first seat part end. The support part and the seat part have a common axis of rotational symmetry. A table comprises a table top and a support for the table top. The table top is circular with a predefined radius, and is provided with a recess having the aforementioned radius. The support comprises a support face which connects to the recess of the table top, and a leg which in a use position is arranged in a plane of symmetry of the table top.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is the National Phase of International Application No. PCT/NL2008/000246, filed 4 Nov. 2008, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application No. 60/985,798, filed 6 Nov. 2007 and NL patent application number 1034642 filed 6 Nov. 2007, the contents of all which are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to an item of furniture, in particular to a chair or a table.

Stackable chairs which are formed from one plastics material part are known. Chairs which are formed from one part made of plastics material inevitably contain components which are shaped so as to allow release from the mould and, if required, stackability. Generally, chairs of this type are not rotationally symmetrical, thus restricting the stackability of the chairs to one position with respect to one another. Also known are chairs which are provided with means to exchangeably attach graphical additions, as for example described in IT 1 246 535 and FR 2 762 702. Also known are chairs which are based on a conical basic shape, as for example described in JP 7/275 145.

SUMMARY

It is desirable to provide a chair with improved stackability.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a chair comprising: a substantially truncated cone-shaped support part with a first support part end and a second support part end, wherein the first support part end is intended to be placed on a ground, and has a larger diameter than the second support part end; and a substantially truncated cone-shaped seat part with a first seat part end and a second seat part end, wherein the first seat part end has a larger diameter than the second seat part end, and the seat part comprises a seat at the second seat part end, wherein the second support part end is connected to the first seat part end, and wherein the support part and the seat part have a common axis of rotational symmetry.

Thus, the main design elements of the chair are shaped as cones having one axis of rotational symmetry. This allows the chairs to be stacked in any desired rotational position with respect to one another. This offers great convenience during stacking and prevents damage. In addition, the cone shape is the optimum shape to accommodate vertical and combined forces resulting from the weight and the movement of the user. This allows material thickness to be saved. In order to be able to stack the chairs as tightly as possible, the wall thickness of the support part and the seat part is as thin as possible. In order to be able to accommodate sufficient vertical loads, the conicity or cone angle (i.e. the angle between the axis of rotational symmetry of the truncated cones in accordance with which the support part and the seat part are shaped, and the cone wall) is as low as possible. The optimum stacking spacing is therefore defined by the ratio between material thickness and conicity.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a chair wherein in the seat part a seat part opening is provided which has lateral delimitations and extends from the first seat part end to the second seat part end, and wherein in the support part a support part opening is provided which substantially overlaps the seat part opening. The support part opening can also extend from the first support part end to the second support part end. The seat part opening and/or the support part opening can also have lateral delimitations which are defined by planes through said common axis of rotational symmetry. By making the lateral delimitations of the support part opening/seat part opening coincide with a plane through the axis of rotational symmetry of the support part/seat part, these delimitations form a straight line, allowing the support part/seat part optimally to accommodate loads. A different orientation of the delimitation is also possible, but would lead to a curved or twisted shape which can accommodate less high loads. The straight edges of the support part opening/seat part opening can be provided with reinforcement profiles. Furthermore, in the case of a plastics material embodiment, the delimitation of the support part opening/seat part opening in the plane of the axis of rotational symmetry of the support part/seat part offers the advantage that the direction of the reinforcement profile corresponds, over the entire length thereof, to the release direction of a mould used to manufacture the chair.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a chair wherein the seat is provided, on the side thereof remote from the first seat part end, with a spacer, in particular a cylindrical spacer. The conical basic shape of the chair according to the invention allows stacking but could lead, unless supplementary provisions were made, to clamping of and damage to the parts in contact with one another. As a result of the addition of a spacer, such as a cylindrical spacer, below the seat of the chair, for example at a central location below the seat, a certain amount of space remains between the stacked chairs. The spacer restricts the depth of the ‘nesting’, thus preventing the aforementioned drawbacks. The stacked chairs support one another merely at the location of the spacer and the interface thereof with a seat. This restricts any wear and damage to these small areas. The height of the spacer defines the mutual spacing of stacked chairs. A suitable selection of this mutual spacing allows the armrest (i.e. a portion of the chair that connects the second support part end to the first support part end) and the seat of the chair to be provided, if required, with an ergonomic curvature. More particularly, in order to improve sitting comfort, the upper edge of the rest and the seat can be provided, for the purposes of sitting convenience, with a truncation and flowing finish. By restricting the part of the chair that is provided with this adaptation to the mutual spacing of the stacked chairs, i.e. the height of the spacer, directional freedom remains ensured during the stacking of the chairs. Likewise for the purposes of sitting comfort, the seat can be placed at an angle. This does not impede stacking either if the design height of the seat remains within the mutual spacing of the stacked chairs.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a chair wherein the seat is provided, at the connection thereof to the second seat part end, with a gutter having an opening in a low-lying part thereof. During stacking of the chairs according to the invention, the top chair covers the remaining chairs. Thus, if the stack of chairs is placed outdoors, only the seat of the top chair becomes wet in the event of rain. In order to drain off the rainwater reaching the top chair in such a way that the seats of the chairs placed below do not become wet, the seat is provided along the circumference thereof with a gutter having a drain opening. During stacking of the chairs, the drain opening of an upper gutter is located at all times above the gutter of the seat of the chair placed therebelow, so that the water is drained off to the ground via the gutters of the stacked chairs. When the seat of each chair is positioned obliquely with respect to the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair, so that the gutter is also positioned obliquely in this way, the opening in the gutter is located in the part of the gutter that is located, in the use position of the chair, closest to the ground, as a result of which the water entering the gutter will collect at this location.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a chair wherein the surface of the seat part is at least partly matted. If the chair is made of a transparent plastics material, the seat and the rest are also transparent. As a result, any damage or wear to the surface of the seat and rest will become visible. If a transparent material is used, said damage is visible also on the outside of the chair. In order to reduce scratchability, the seat part of the chair, or at least a portion of the surface of the seat part if the chair is made of a transparent plastics material, can be matted. In order to reduce the external visibility of any damage, the outside of the rest (the region where the support part and the seat part merge) can also be matted.

By embodying the support part of the chair as part of a perfect cone, the support part, in particular a surface thereof, lends itself to the attachment of a, for example flexible, material such as paper, cardboard or plastics material, for example in the form of a sheet or plate of material. As a result of the conical main shape of the chair, the surface is a simply curved surface. This allows the attachment, to or in proximity to the surface, of materials which are flexible but not plastically deformable. These materials can for example be attached to the outside of the support part in the form of, for example, a self-adhesive, waterproof film. This allows the chairs to be provided with a color or graphical feature in a simple manner. As a result of a perfect cone shape, the layout of the outermost surface of the support part of the chair consists of a flat face. As a result, the added materials can be provided with color or images in all conventional production methods for planography.

When the aforementioned material has been attached to the outside of the support part, it is susceptible to contamination and damage. Furthermore, the visible side of the material may be struck during the stacking of the chairs. The scope for the end user to exchange the material is also restricted if a self-adhesive image carrier is used.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a chair wherein the chair is made of a transparent material, wherein fastening means are attached to the inside of the support part for attaching a plate-shaped material in proximity to the inner surface of the support part. As stated, the chair is suitable for being made of plastics material. If at least the support part of the chair is made of a transparent plastics material, the aforementioned materials can be attached to the inside of the support part. In this case too, a perfect cone shape of the (inner surface of the) support part offers the advantage of the flat layout of the material. Placement on the inside offers significant advantages. The visible side of the material is protected by the support part of the chair from damp and dirt, and during the stacking of the chairs only the inside of the material can be struck. Any damage to the material occurs in this case at locations which are not visible or not conspicuous. In the case of fastening to the inside, the material is preferably not self-adhesive. A connection between the material and the chair can be attained by mechanical means, or for example the use of a statically charged film as for example described in patent application DE 10 020 990.

If the material is attached to the inside, said material consists of a flexible material which adapts to the conical shape of the chair. In order to fasten the material, the chair is designed in an embodiment wherein in the support part a support part opening is provided which extends from the first support part end to the second support part end, wherein the support part opening has lateral delimitations, and wherein the plate-shaped material is fastened at the lateral delimitations of the support part opening. For the purposes of correct positioning with respect to the chair, certain fastening facilities, such as hook edges, supports, cams or the like, are attached in an embodiment wherein the chair is provided, on the inside of the support part, with a cam-shaped part which is adapted to extend in an associated recess of the plate-shaped material to prevent rotation of the plate-shaped material about the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair.

In principle, the perfect cone shape of the chair also allows rotation of the material about the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair. In order to define the correct position, there is formed in the upper edge of the material a recess which falls around a cam-shaped part within the upper edge of the chair. Preferably, this internally cam-shaped part is combined with an external facility which serves as a handle, in an embodiment wherein a handle, in the form of a through-opening in the support part, in proximity to the second support part end, and the seat part, in proximity to the first seat part end, is provided.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a chair wherein the support part is provided with at least one stiffening profile which extends in a plane through the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair. The support part can be provided at three locations with stiffening profiles which serve to stiffen the support part, and ensure that the outside of the support part does not become damaged during the stacking of chairs.

During the stacking of chairs, it is almost impossible to rule out the risk of one chair striking an underlying chair. The stiffening profiles, which serve as interfaces, are attached in order to prevent scratches on the outside of the underlying chair. Matting the contact side of the stiffening profiles makes any damage thereto less conspicuous.

The front of the conical outer face of the chair is subjected to the highest loads as a result of the user's weight. For these reasons, it is useful to provide each of the lateral delimitations of the support part opening with a stiffening profile. The shape of the stiffening profile can be adapted to the fixing, for example by receiving in a slot, of an edge of a plate-shaped material that is attached to the inside of the support part of the chair, since this edge of the material forms a vulnerable detail. The edge is in the region of the user and is, adjoining the open side of the chair, subjected the most to weather and wind. Because these edges of the material are straight, the straight edge lends itself to conversion into an angle, producing added stiffening. The two straight edges of the material are for this purpose, for example, provided with one or more straight grooves along which the edge can be folded. The edge to be folded can be provided with an adhesive layer which is protected by a removable protective layer.

Furthermore it is possible to provide a stiffening profile which extends in the support part at the side thereof remote from the support part opening, and in the direction of a plane through the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a chair wherein the seat is provided with an opening at the location of the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair. A tubular part can also be provided that connect to the opening on the side thereof remote from the first seat part end. Furthermore, the dimensions of the opening can be larger than the external diameter of the tubular part at an end thereof remote from the seat. By providing an opening in the seat of the chair, stacked chairs can be joined together and be coupled to a fixed point, such as a point on a ground, by means of a connecting element such as a cable, chain or rod fed through the openings of the respective seats. In an embodiment, the openings are circular. In an embodiment, the openings are located at the location of the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair, so that the openings of stacked chairs are located on one line, irrespective of the orientation of each chair with respect to another one.

By providing the connecting element, at an end thereof that is intended to be located above the seat of a chair or above the seat of the top chair of a stack of chairs, with a widening having dimensions which are larger than the dimensions of the opening in the seat of the chairs, the connecting element is blocked on the upper side. By fastening the connecting element at a different end thereof to a ground, the chair or the stack of chairs is secured and protected against theft or toppling.

If the length of the tubular part is selected in a suitable manner, the bottom end thereof is located in proximity to the opening in the seat of a chair located therebelow. If the dimensions of the opening are larger than the external diameter of the tubular part at an end thereof remote from the seat, the bottom end of the tubular part can, if the length of the tubular part is selected in a suitable manner, extend into the opening of the seat of a chair located therebelow. Thus, the tubular parts combine, during the stacking of the chairs, to form a continuous tube. This allows, in the case of stacked chairs, a connecting element to be fed in a simple manner through a plurality of chairs, even if the connecting element consists of a flexible chain or cable.

Tables, in particular tables for terraces of cafes and restaurants, are usually based on simple basic features; the table top is square or round; the support of the table top consists of legs at the edge of the table top or of a central pillar having a weighted foot. In addition, there are various variants wherein the legs can be folded against the table top in order to reduce the amount of space taken up on storage.

Square or rectangular table tops have the drawback that the position of the user is highly defined. In the case of round table tops, said position is free. However, said shape has the drawback that tables which are placed against one another cannot form a closed surface of one large table.

Legs at the edge of the table top offer the advantage of high stability. However, they restrict leg room. A central pillar does offer free leg room but prevents compact stacking.

It is desirable to provide a table having at least one of an advantageous basic shape of the table top, advantageous supporting of the table top, and convenience of use.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a table comprising a table top and a support for the table top, wherein the table top is circular with a predefined radius, and is provided with a recess having said radius. Generally, a round shape of a table top has the advantage that the user can sit at various spots on the circumference. However, a drawback is that tables cannot be placed tight against one another in order to obtain a larger surface area. The round shape with the recess, described hereinafter in its entirety also as being moon-shaped, does offer that possibility. On the one hand, the advantage of the directionless character of the round shape is preserved. On the other hand, this shape allows tables to be linked to one another without an intermediate space. One table can be extended by placing the recess against the edge of the other table. As a result of the round shape, this manner of joining-together offers substantially unlimited possible variations. The principle can also be used on the basis of a regular polygon. However, the round basic shape offers the greatest freedom for selection.

The ratio of the recess with respect to the table top can be varied. In an embodiment, the present invention provides a table wherein the recess extends over a sector of the table having an opening angle which is at most 60 degrees.

As the width of the recess increases, the connection to a different table also increases. However, the surface area of the table top decreases as a result. In order to attain an optimum dimension, a “circular” arrangement which is as small as possible, namely an arrangement with three tables which are placed against one another, is assumed. The dimension of the recess with respect to the diameter of the table top can be selected in such a way that when three tables are joined together, an opening remains open in the center between the tables. In this embodiment, the opening angle is smaller than 60 degrees, so that in an arrangement of three of these tables, wherein the recess of each table abuts against a part, not provided with a recess, of one of the other tables, a predefined opening remains between the tables. This opening allows the tables to be placed for example in a free-standing manner around a parasol.

Known basic forms to support a table top include a central column or separate legs. These basic forms of support can be used also for the table according to the present invention. Separate legs which are placed at the edge of the table top have the advantage that they offer optimum stability. In the case of round tables, a number of three legs also offers the advantage that the table stands stably at all times. For functional and ergonomic reasons, the legs should be embodied so as to be as thin as possible. Although a table with three legs stands stably on the floor at all times, the lack of rigidity in the design can nevertheless cause instability therein.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a table wherein the support comprises a support face which connects to the recess of the table top, and a leg which in a use position is arranged in a plane of symmetry of the table top. In the case of a table of this type, instability is combated as a result of the fact that two legs are, as it were, joined together to form a support face. This support face is, according to an embodiment wherein the support face substantially is formed along a cylinder surface, embodied as a segment of a cylinder, as a result of which the rigidity is high. The arched shape is optimally able to accommodate vertical forces and offers a rigid connection to the table top. As a result, minimum material thickness is sufficient. By causing the radius of the cylindrical face to correspond to the radius of the recess of the top, the possibility of joining the tables to one another is not restricted.

The third support point is embodied as a leg. As a result of the fact that the curved support face ensures lateral stability, this leg is loaded almost exclusively vertically, so that the design can be made light even in the case of the leg.

In order to attain optimum stability, the support points are placed as far as possible away from one another on the ground. However, this may not be at the cost of other operations such as the above-mentioned connecting of a plurality of tables. For this purpose, the leg is placed as far as possible toward the edge of the table top. The curved support face can be widened on the underside. If space is created between the curved support face and the floor, the connecting of a plurality of tables is, in accordance with an embodiment of the table which, not impeded, in particular not if the support face and/or the leg are provided with a foot part which is to be placed on a ground and extends sideways. In this embodiment, the support face is provided, at an edge remote from the table top, with a recess.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a table wherein the leg is fastened to a leg support which is attached below the table top and is rotatable about an axis directed transversely to the table top. In the case of use in the catering sector, it is important that tables can be stacked compactly. Various possibilities are known for stacking tables compactly. Tables with fixed legs are for this purpose usually embodied with legs which are located outside the table top. This has the drawback that the table has to be lifted during stacking over the underlying table. This is ergonomically disadvantageous and it restricts the maximum stacking height. Furthermore, the legs placed outside the table top usually restrict connectability. In addition, various designs are known wherein the legs are embodied so as to be able to fold up. These designs are laborious and usually restrict leg room. In the case of the tables according to the embodiment, these drawbacks do not occur. By attaching the leg to a rotatable leg support, the leg can be rotated in the direction of, or counter to, the support face of the table, and the tables can be “nested”. This does not require the table to be lifted any higher than the thickness of the table top.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides a table further comprising a table top cap which is adapted to cover the upper side of the table top. The most important visible wear to tables is caused by stacking. Because the upper table rests on the top of the underlying table, this will over the course of time become visible on the surface of the table top. Furthermore, this can cause spoiling. Due to hygiene and aesthetic considerations, it is undesirable to serve food thereon. In order to make the table comply with the most stringent hygiene requirements, the table top is provided with a removable shaped part, a table top cap. This shaped part connects tightly to the table top and forms as a result a single entity with the table. Before the tables are stacked, the shaped parts are removed and they can, if required, be cleaned and stored.

The table top is generally the part of the table in which the visual character is expressed. In many cases the character is expressed in terms of the material, in other cases the table top is embodied with a color or a graphical decoration. As a result of these visual features, the table tops contribute to the atmosphere or the identity of the environment in which they are placed, such as a cafe or restaurant. Usually, these visual features form a fixed part of the table top. If however the removable cap is provided with the visual and graphical features, it is possible to keep the table neutral. Not only does this have major advantages in production and stock control but it also offers a large degree of flexibility for the user. The table top cap can for this purpose be embodied in a color, be provided with a material expression or with graphical decorations.

In the case of a catering facility, table tops serve not only to support the identity of the catering facility. A communicative function can also be assigned. On terraces, loose menus have the drawback that they can blow away. By representing the fare on offer and the prices on the table top, the information is present at all times. In the case of the table according to the invention, this can be attained by making the table top cap transparent and by providing a separate sheet of material which is attached below the table top cap. All graphical features, prices and other commercial statements can be attached to this sheet of material. Because the costs of the sheet are modest, the information may also be temporary information. By causing the insert to follow the internal contours of the cover cap, any damage to the table top is camouflaged.

In many cultures, it is conventional for a table to be provided with a tablecloth. However, the drawback of a tablecloth on a table which is placed outdoors is that it is sensitive to wind and that it soon becomes soiled. By placing the removable table top cap over the tablecloth, these drawbacks are avoided. The table top cap holds the cloth in place and protects it from staining. In the case of this application, the table top cap is preferably embodied so as to be transparent, so that the character of the tablecloth is preserved.

The graphical expressions on the table top are restricted to general identity features or information at a short distance. For communicative statements, directed at a longer distance, the vertically curved faces are more suitable. The curved support face of the table is ideal for the attachment of the company name or advertising slogans. In this case, use may be made of for example self-adhesive film.

The attachment of communicative statements by means of self-adhesive film has the restriction that the reuse of the material of the table is impeded and that the statement is of a permanent type. By embodying the communicative statement in a detachable manner, these drawbacks are avoided. An additional advantage is that temporary statements, such as in the case of a catering facility a daily menu, can be represented. For this purpose, the invention provides an embodiment of the table wherein the support face is provided with means for fixing a plate-shaped material and/or wherein the support face is provided, along the free edges thereof, with a profile for receiving edges of the plate-shaped material. A loose plate of material is in this case inserted from the top downward. By making the width of the opening greater on the upper side than on the underside, the material is gradually fixed and said material assumes the curvature of the face. As a result, the material is permanently fastened without the use of adhesives or the like. In an embodiment wherein the table top cap comprises an edge part which extends substantially transversely to the plane of the table top, the table top cap is embodied in such a way that an edge thereof falls over the upper edge of the material. This prevents moisture from seeping between the material and the curved support face of the table. The table top cap also forms protection against undesired removal of the material.

Under specific conditions, it may be desirable for the table top cap to be secured to the table. It may also be desirable for the position of the rotatable leg to be locked. For this purpose, it is possible to attach to the leg support and the leg, for example, cams which engage with openings or recesses, in proximity to the edge of the table top, or with an edge part or with a lip of the table top. Once the table top cap has been placed, it clicks onto the cams. Raising the lip releases both the table top cap and the leg.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be described and explained hereinafter in conjunction with drawings of non-limiting exemplary embodiments, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a combination of truncated cone shapes to elucidate the design principle of the chair according to the invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a chair according to the invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a chair according to the invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of a stack of chairs according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a cross section through another embodiment of a chair according to the invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates the attachment of an image carrier to a chair according to the invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates another manner of attaching an image carrier to a chair according to the invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a chair according to the invention;

FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a chair according to the invention, the attachment of an image carrier to the chair being illustrated;

FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a chair according to the invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates the attachment of an image carrier in the chair according to FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 illustrates the use of a connecting element in conjunction with an embodiment of a chair according to the invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates in cross section the use of a connecting element during stacking of chairs according to the invention;

FIG. 14 is a plan view of the connecting of tables according to the invention;

FIG. 15 is a plan view of different connecting of tables according to the invention;

FIG. 16 is a plan view of again different connecting of tables according to the invention;

FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a table according to the invention;

FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a table according to the invention;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view from below of another embodiment of a table according to the invention;

FIG. 20 shows the view from below according to FIG. 19 in another condition;

FIG. 21 illustrates in perspective stacking of tables according to FIGS. 19 and 20;

FIG. 22 illustrates schematically and in perspective the use of a table top cap;

FIG. 23 illustrates the use of another table top cap;

FIG. 24 illustrates another application of a table top cap;

FIG. 25 illustrates another application of a table top cap;

FIG. 26 illustrates the attachment of an image carrier to a support part of a table according to the invention;

FIG. 27 illustrates another manner of attaching an image carrier to a support part of a table according to the invention;

FIG. 28 illustrates another manner of attaching an image carrier to a support part of a table according to the invention; and

FIG. 29 shows in cross section and from below locking of a table top cap and a leg support.

In the various figures, like reference symbols refer to like components, or to components having a like or similar function.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows the principle of the chair wherein a truncated cone-shaped support part

A and an in principle truncated cone-shaped seat part B have an axis, referred to hereinafter as axis of rotational symmetry C, in common. The support part A is connected at an upper end to an upper end of the seat part B. A lower end of the support part A is intended to rest on a ground, and has a larger diameter than the upper end of the support part A. A lower end of the seat part B has a smaller diameter than the upper end of the seat part B. Support part A and seat part B are provided with an opening at the front, thus providing a seat opening for seat D, as will become more apparent from FIG. 2.

FIG. 2 shows the providing of a support part opening and a seat part opening in a chair, the principle whereby imaginary planes E, which define lateral delimitations, or edges F of the support part opening and the seat part opening, coincide with axis of rotational symmetry C. As a result, the edges F of the constructional planes A and B each form a straight line. The angle between the imaginary planes E defines a width of the seat opening. The transecting does hot take place in the seat D.

FIG. 3 shows the application of the cylindrical spacer G below the seat DI wherein the axis of rotational symmetry of the spacer G corresponds to axis of rotational symmetry C. The upper face forms a slot or cavity H on the circumferential side of the seat DI and serves during stacking as a support and centering face of the underlying face I of a chair placed thereabove. As a result of the fact that the axis of rotational symmetry of the spacer corresponds to that of the support part A and the seat part B, the spacer G does not in any way restrict the stacking. A mutual position of the chairs with respect to the axis of rotational symmetry C remains free. In each position of the stacked chair, the supporting is effective. The cylindrical shape of the spacer G is most suitable to accommodate the weight of stacked chairs. As a result, the stacked spacers form a stable pillar.

FIG. 4 shows a stacking height J which allows a departure from the rotationally symmetrical shape, without this restricting the freedom of stacking. The upper edge of the chair forms armrests which can have a curvature, and the seat can have an inclination, improving sitting comfort (see also FIG. 5).

FIG. 5 is a cross section of the chair according to FIG. 4. At the location of the cavity H, the chair is provided with an encircling gutter K for receiving and collecting water which reaches the chair, the gutter K being provided, at the point which is lowest during use of the chair, with a drain hole L. During stacking of chairs, water, which collects in the gutter K of the top chair, runs via the associated drain hole L to a gutter K of an underlying chair, and through the drain hole of the latter gutter K to lower gutters, until the water finally falls on the ground via the drain hole L of the bottom chair.

FIG. 6 illustrates the manner in which a flexible self-adhesive image carrier M is attached to the outside of the chair.

FIG. 7 shows the principle wherein a flexible image carrier N, in the form of a plate of material, is attached to the inside of a chair which is made of transparent material, thus allowing the image carrier N to be perceived from the outside of the chair.

FIG. 8 illustrates a difference in surface treatment of the material of the chair, wherein the inner and outer surface of a transparent support part A are highly polished in order to obtain maximum transparency, and the inner and outer surface of seat part B are matted in order to obtain minimum transparency.

FIG. 9 shows the embodiment of the cup-shaped part 0 in proximity to the upper edge of the chair which is combined with the handle function. The cup-shaped part 0 forms a transaction of the support part A and the seat part B. Providing a transverse connection P in the cup-shaped part 0 produces a handle. An image carrier N is provided with a recess Q which connects to the part 0 and as a result is fixed in a lateral direction.

FIG. 10 shows the chair which is provided with upright stiffening ribs S.

FIG. 11 illustrates a fastening of an image carrier which is provided at upright sides with a turned part T which can be glued or placed or clamped in the stiffening ribs S on both sides of the support part opening of the chair.

FIG. 12 shows the chair with an opening U in the seat, and a connecting element V which is provided with a widening W. The widening W prevents the connecting element V from moving in the downward direction out of the opening U.

FIG. 13 shows a stack of chairs. A tubular part X connects to each opening U, wherein the opening U has larger dimensions than an end of the tubular part X that is remote from the seat D. If the length of the tubular part X is selected in a suitable manner, said end thereof thus sticks into the opening U of a seat D of a chair located directly therebelow. FIG. 13 reveals how the tubular parts X combine to form a continuous pipe through which the connecting element V can pass. One end of the connecting element V can be fastened to a ground in a suitable manner, for example using a padlock on a ring which is secured in the ground.

FIG. 14 shows four table tops TA which are placed partly in a straight line and partly at an angle relative to one another. The table tops TA are substantially circular, and provided with a recess TB having the same radius as the table top TA.

FIG. 15 shows a possible assembly of a series of table tops TA.

FIG. 16 shows a circular arrangement of table tops TA wherein the width of the recess TB is a part of the diameter of the table top TA. In the illustrated configuration, there is formed in the centre of the arrangement an opening which can be used for, for example, placing the tables around a stand of a parasol.

FIG. 17 shows the table with the moon-shaped table top TA, wherein there is attached, following the recess TB of the table top TA, a cylindrically curved vertical support face TC having an internal radius corresponding to the radius of the table top TA. The position of a, for example cylindrical, leg TD is also indicated.

FIG. 18 shows a variant wherein the face TC and, if required, the leg TD are provided with support points TE. The support points TE increase the size of the support face, as a result of which the stability of the table increases. Providing the support face TC between the support points TE with a recess TF of at least the height of the support points TE allows the tables to be placed at all times tight against one another.

FIG. 19 shows the underside of the table with the leg TD which forms one part with a leg support TG. The leg support TG is rotatably fastened to the table top TA, a hinge or pivot TH being located in the centre of the table top TA. In order to obtain optimum lateral stability, the leg support TG is embodied so as to be as wide as possible. The position of leg TD is preferably locked with respect to table top TA by means of a supplementary facility. One of the possibilities is to attach to leg TD a cam TK which clicks into a recess TI in the edge of table top TA. Various variants on this, which are located on the inside of the table top, are possible. However, the positioning of a click design at the greatest distance from the pivot TH makes optimum use of the spring force of the leg support TG.

FIG. 20 shows the design illustrated in FIG. 19, wherein the leg TD is rotated against the support face TC. This is possible in two directions of rotation. In order to secure the leg TD also in the rotated-in position, there are formed in the edge of table top TA on both sides of the support face TC recesses TI wherein the cam TK of leg TD can click. The leg support TG lies in one plane with an edge TJ of the table top TA in order to attain optimum stability during stacking. The leg support TG is also embodied so as to be smooth in order to prevent damage to the underlying table top during stacking.

FIG. 21 shows a stacking of tables. In the case of the bottom table, the leg remains in the normal use position such as is represented in FIG. 19, whereas in the case of the tables placed thereabove the legs TD are rotated against the cylindrical support face TC, such as is represented in FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 shows a table top cap TL (having a substantially inverted U-shaped transverse cross section) which can be placed as a cover on table top TA.

FIG. 23 shows the table, provided with the table top cap TL which is provided with a graphical expression, in this case a checkered pattern.

FIG. 24 shows the table, provided with cap TL which is made of a transparent material, and a loose insert TM which is attached between the table top cap TL and the table top TA.

FIG. 25 shows the application of a table top cap TL in use as a cover and fastening of a tablecloth TN. In the embodiment, a certain play is held between the table top TA and the table top cap TL, thus allowing use to be made of a tablecloth TN having a certain thickness.

FIG. 26 illustrates the use of the vertical curved support face TC for the attachment of an image carrier TO, such as a self-adhesive sheet of material.

FIG. 27 shows profiles TP on both sides of the curved support face TC. The profile TP stands at an angle TQ, in such a way that the opening on the upper side is larger than on the underside. The image carrier TO is embodied as a flexible card, of which the vertical sides are also embodied at the angle TQ, and which is accordingly somewhat trapezoidal. This image carrier TO fits precisely between the profiles TP in such a way that said image carrier is placed tight against the support face TC when the image carrier TO is slid completely in the profiles TP.

FIG. 28 shows the situation wherein the communicative statement TO is slid in the profile and the cover cap TL is attached, as a result of which TO is also covered on the upper side.

FIG. 29 shows cams TK and TR on both sides of leg support TG. Cam TK corresponds to the cam as described in FIG. 19. For the purposes of cam TK, the lip TS, which is provided with an opening the size of cam TK, is provided to the edge of the table top cap TL. For the purposes of cam TR, a recess TT is formed in the edge TJ of the table top TA and the edge 20 of table top cap TL. When the leg support TG stands in the illustrated position, both cams fall in both recesses. Raising lip TS releases cam TK, thus allowing the leg support TG to be rotated into the position which is illustrated in FIG. 20. In said position, cam TR is rotated out of the recess TT, thus cancelling the locking of the table top cap TL.

If the chair and table described hereinbefore are used for a terrace set-up, the permissible cost price is a function of the utilization. In many countries, a terrace will be season-bound. This restricts the period of utilization, as a result of which the investment must be recovered in a short time. The profile of the establishment is another decisive factor; it may be a simple cafe, a brasserie or a high-quality restaurant. The profile influences the depreciation period; a restaurant may wish to start a season with spotless furniture; in the case of a cafe, this is less important. Thirdly, the cost price is related to the possibility of conducting advertising. In many cases, drinks brands form the sponsor of a terrace. A fourth element is formed by the costs for out-of-season storage. Last but by no means least: the investment in relation to the contribution to the yield of the terrace.

With the above, the cost price of the terrace set-up is accordingly not a fixed item. In fact, it concerns exploitation costs which relate to efficiency and appearance. For those reasons, a flexible form of exploitation is proposed which offers room for specific desires. The products can therefore be both sold and leased. Products for use indoors, which are used throughout the year, can be sold. For use on terraces or other season-bound applications, lease forms become available. The items of furniture are used for the duration of the season. At the end of the season they are picked up and stored centrally. In this case, various levels of service provisioning are possible, depending on the nature of the establishment. The simplest is cleaning, storing and returning the items of furniture for the following season. In addition, it is possible to exchange a fixed percentage of the items of furniture for new copies. As a function of the percentage, more or less rapid renewal of the furniture is accordingly attained. The picking-up of the items of furniture for the recovery of raw materials is in this case paid for via a winter storage fee.

Depreciated items of furniture are cleaned and stripped of loose components such as the handle and feet. In this case, it is important to note that both the table and the chair consist substantially of one material. As a result of the use of separate image carriers, the materials of the table and the chair remain free of printing. The chair and the table are thus optimally adapted for the recovery of raw materials. Depending on the local situation, the material is reused on location or sent back to the original manufacturer. If the manufacturer delivers both to the Northern Hemisphere and to the Southern Hemisphere (wherein the seasons of use for the items of furniture differ between the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere), the manufacturer can make optimum use of his production capacity and use of (new and recovered) raw materials, and there is no need for long-term storage of the raw materials as they are made available.

When a certain regularity is obtained in the delivery of new products and removal for reuse, logistical costs can be saved. The containers which are used for the transportation head out full but also return full.

It should be understood that the embodiments described are merely examples of the invention which can be embodied in a broad range of embodiments. Therefore, specific structural and functional details which are described herein should be regarded not as entailing any limitation, but rather exclusively as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis in order to give to a person skilled in the art sufficient information in order to carry out the invention. The terms and phrases which are used herein are intended not to entail limitation, but rather to provide a comprehensible description of the invention.

The term “a”/“an”, as used herein, is defined as one or more than one. The term “a number of”/“a plurality”, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another”/“a different”, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The term “comprising” and/or “with”/“having”, as used herein, does not rule out other components which are not mentioned (i.e. is non-limiting).

Claims

1. A chair, comprising

a substantially truncated cone-shaped support part with a first support part end and a second support part end, wherein the first support part end is intended to be placed on a ground, and has a larger diameter than the second support part end; and

a substantially truncated cone-shaped seat part with a first seat part end and a second seat part end, wherein the first seat part end has a larger diameter than the second seat part end, and the seat part comprises a seat at the second seat part end,

wherein the second support part end is connected to the first seat part end, and wherein the support part and the seat part have a common axis of rotational symmetry.

2. The chair of claim 1, wherein in the seat part a seat part opening is provided which has lateral delimitations and extends from the first seat part end to the second seat part end, and wherein in the support part a support part opening is provided which substantially overlaps the seat part opening.

3. The chair of claim 2, wherein the support part opening extends from the first support part end to the second support part end.

4. The chair of claim 2, wherein the seat part opening and/or the support part opening has lateral delimitations which are defined by planes through said common axis of rotational symmetry.

5. The chair of claim 1, wherein the seat part is provided, on a side thereof remote from the first seat part end, with a spacer, in particular a cylindrical spacer.

6. The chair of claim 1, wherein the seat part is provided, at a connection thereof to the second seat part end, with a gutter having an opening in a low-lying part thereof.

7. The chair of claim 1, wherein the surface of the seat part is at least partly matted.

8. The chair of claim 1, wherein the chair is made of a transparent material, wherein fastening means are attached to the inside of the support part for attaching a plate-shaped material in proximity to the inner surface of the support part.

9. The chair of claim 1, wherein in the support part a support part opening is provided which extends from the first support part end to the second support part end, wherein the support part opening has lateral delimitations, and wherein the plate-shaped material is fastened at the lateral delimitations of the support part opening.

10. The chair of claim 8, wherein the chair is provided, on the inside of the support part, with a cam-shaped part which is adapted to extend in an associated recess of the plate-shaped material to prevent rotation of the plate-shaped material about the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair.

11. The chair of claim 1, wherein a handle, in the form of a through-opening in the support part, in proximity to the second support part end, and the seat part, in proximity to the first seat part end, is provided.

12. The chair of claim 1, wherein the support part is provided with at least one stiffening profile which extends in a plane through the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair.

13. The chair of claim 1, wherein the seat is provided with an opening at the location of the axis of rotational symmetry of the chair.

14. The chair of claim 13, wherein a tubular part connects to the opening on the side thereof remote from the first seat part end.

15. The chair of claim 14, wherein the dimensions of the opening are larger than the external diameter of the tubular part at an end thereof remote from the seat.

16. A table, comprising a table top and a support for the table top, wherein the table top is circular with a predefined radius, and is provided with a recess having said radius.

17. The table of claim 16, wherein the recess extends over a sector of the table having an opening angle which is at most 60 degrees.

18. The table of claim 17, wherein the opening angle is smaller than 60 degrees, so that in an arrangement of three of these tables, wherein the recess of each table abuts against a part, not provided with a recess, of one of the other tables, a predefined opening remains between the tables.

19. The table of claim 16, wherein the support comprises a support face which connects to the recess of the table top, and a leg which in a use position is arranged in a plane of symmetry of the table top.

20. The table of claim 19, wherein the support face substantially is formed along a cylinder surface.

21. The table of claim 19, wherein the support face is provided, at an edge remote from the table top, with a recess.

22. The table of claim 19, wherein the support face is provided with means for fixing a plate-shaped material.

23. The table of claim 22, wherein the support face is provided, along the free edges thereof, with a profile for receiving edges of the plate-shaped material.

24. The table of claim 19, wherein the leg is fastened to a leg support which is attached below the table top and is rotatable about an axis directed transversely to the table top.

25. The table of claim 24, further comprising a locking means for locking an angular position of the leg support.

26. The table of claim 25, wherein the locking means comprises a cam which is provided on the leg support and is adapted to be received in a recess provided in proximity to the edge of the table top.

27. The table of claim 16, further comprising a table top cap which is adapted to cover the upper side of the table top.

28. The table of claim 27, wherein the table top cap comprises an edge part which extends substantially transversely to the plane of the table top.

29. The table of claim 27, wherein the table top cap is made of a transparent material.