Abstract:
A table arrangement including a support member rotatably mounted to a base structure, a table element translatably mounted to the support member, and a locking mechanism is described. The locking mechanism may include a first locking member connected to the support member to rotate with the support member between non-aligned and aligned configurations with respect to the second locking member, and a second locking member. The first or second locking member may be translatably mounted with respect to the other locking member between a first engagement position and a second engagement position, wherein, when the first locking member is in the aligned configuration, the first or second locking member can translate into the second engagement position. The table arrangement may be deployed and stowed.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of Great Britain Patent Application 1410203.2, filed Jun. 9, 2014, titled “A Table Arrangement,” the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention concerns a table arrangement. More particularly, but not exclusively, this invention concerns a table arrangement comprising a base structure, a support member, rotatably mounted to the base structure such that the support member can rotate between first and second rotation configurations, and a table element, having a table surface, the table element being translatably mounted to the support member such that the table element can translate transversely to the support member, between first and second transverse positions. The invention also concerns an aircraft comprising the table arrangement and methods of deploying and stowing a table arrangement. 
     In general, table arrangements, particularly on aircraft, and for use by a passenger of a business of first class seat, tend to be mounted in a housing of a seat module and a table element of the table arrangement is moveable from a stowed position (often within the housing) to a deployed (useable) position. Depending on the design of the seat module and the location of the seat and the housing, the table arrangement has to be designed to allow the table element to move from the stowed position to a suitable useable position with respect to the passenger seat. This may involve a series of motions of the table element, for example including rotation and translation of the table element. 
     Often, these motions need to occur in a specific order in order to deploy or stow the table element. For example, the table element may have to be slid out vertically from the housing before it can be rotated to be horizontal and may need to be rotated to vertical before being slid back into the housing. Otherwise, the table element may collide with sides/surround of the housing and cause damage. 
     Also, if a table element is to be translated transverse to a support rod, the centre of gravity of the table element moves to a different side of the support rod, and this may cause the support rod to rotate, when such movement is not wanted. 
     Hence, it is desired to isolate different motions of the table element so that motions are prevented from occurring at the same time. 
     The present invention seeks to mitigate the above-mentioned problems. Alternatively or additionally, the present invention seeks to provide an improved table arrangement. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides, according to a first aspect, a table arrangement comprising a base structure, a support member, rotatably mounted to the base structure such that the support member can rotate between first and second rotation configurations, and a table element, having a table surface, the table element being translatably mounted to the support member such that the table element can translate transversely to the support member, between first and second transverse positions, wherein the table arrangement also comprises a locking mechanism comprising a first locking member, and a second locking member, wherein the first locking member is connected to the support member such that it rotates with the support member between non-aligned and aligned configurations with respect to the second locking member, and wherein the first or second locking member is translatably mounted with respect to the other locking member such that the first or second locking member can translate between a first engagement position and a second engagement position, wherein, when the support member is rotated towards the second rotation configuration, the first locking member rotates towards the aligned configuration, and wherein, when the first locking member is in the aligned configuration, the first or second locking member can translate into the second engagement position. 
     Here, “translate” means that the relevant element (e.g. table element, first or second locking member) moves from a first position to a spatially different second position. Such motion could be achieved by sliding or by rotation about an (off-centre) axis or a combination. 
     Such an arrangement means that the first or second locking member can only translate (and therefore could allow a translation of the table element) after the support member is rotated to the second rotation configuration. 
     Preferably, it is the second locking member that is translationally mounted in relation to the first locking member. 
     Preferably, the table element is translated with respect to the support member in a substantially horizontal direction, preferably, with the table surface in a substantially horizontal orientation. 
     Preferably, the first rotation configuration is a more stowed (for example, a substantially vertical orientation of the table element, for example for stowage in a vertical housing) configuration of the table arrangement and the second rotation configuration is a more deployed (for example a substantially horizontal orientation of the table element, fully rotated, useable) configuration of the table arrangement. 
     Preferably, the first transverse position is a more stowed (for example, where the table element is in a transverse position with respect to the support member that it is in when stowed, for example a further from the passenger seat) position of the table arrangement and the second transverse position is a more deployed (for example, where the table element is in a transverse position with respect to the support member that it is in when deployed, for example useable or nearer the passenger seat) position of the table arrangement. 
     Preferably, the first engagement position of the (first or) second locking member is a disengaged position (where the (first or) second locking member is not engaged with the other locking member). 
     Preferably, the second engagement position of the (first or) second locking member is an engaged position (where the (first or) second locking member is engaged with the other locking member to prevent rotation of the first locking member). Such an arrangement means that when the (first or) second locking member is engaged (and may allow translation of the table element), the first locking member (and also the support member) cannot rotate. Hence, rotating of the support member may be prevented whilst translation of the table element is occurring. 
     Preferably, the second locking member translates between a first engagement position and a second engagement position in a longitudinal direction of the support member. 
     Preferably, the first and second locking members comprise a female locking member and a corresponding male locking member. More preferably, the first locking member is a female locking member and the second locking member is a corresponding male locking member. 
     Preferably, the female locking member is a locking disc with a locking slot. More preferably, the male locking member is a locking pin corresponding to the locking slot. 
     Preferably, the first locking member or the support member has a stop portion such that the first locking member is stopped from further rotation when the first locking member reaches the aligned configuration. This allows a user to rotate the support member such that the first locking member is in the aligned configuration, but no further. It therefore ensures that the first and second locking members are aligned if the support member is rotated as far as it will go in that direction. More preferably, a corresponding stop portion is on the base structure or second locking member. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism prevents translation of the table element between the first and second transverse positions, when the support member is in at least one configuration other than the second rotation configuration. 
     More preferably, the locking mechanism prevents translation of the table element, when the support member is in any rotation configuration between the first and second rotation configurations, other than the second rotation configuration. In other words, the table element may be prevented from translating towards its more deployed position until the support member is fully rotated to the more deployed rotation configuration. 
     Preferably, the locking mechanism prevents rotation of the support member, when the table element is in at least one position other than the first transverse position. 
     More preferably, the locking mechanism prevents rotation of the support member, when the table element is in any transverse position between the first and second transverse positions, other than the first transverse position. In other words, the support member may be prevented from rotating towards its more stowed configuration until the table element is fully translated to the more stowed transverse position. 
     Preferably, the table element is mounted to the support member such that it rotates with the support member, when the support member rotates between first and second rotation configurations. The table element, and table surface, may thus be rotated from a more stowed (for example, substantially vertical) position to a more deployed (for example, where the table surface is substantially horizontal, in a useable) position. 
     Preferably, the table element is rotated to a substantially horizontal position when the support member rotates to the second rotation configuration. Preferably, the table element is rotated to a substantially vertical position when the support member rotates to the first rotation configuration. 
     Preferably, the support member is rotatably mounted to the base structure such that the support member rotates (for example about its longitudinal axis) between the first and second rotation configurations. 
     Preferably, the table arrangement further comprises a first abutment member connected to the table element, and a second, corresponding abutment member connected to the first or second locking member, wherein, the first or second abutment member is translatably mounted such that it can translate between an abutting position, where the abutment members abut such that the table element is prevented from translating between the first and second transverse positions, and a non-abutting position, where the abutment members do not abut, and wherein, when the first or second abutment member is translated from the abutting position to the non-abutting position, the first or second locking member is caused to translate from the first engagement position to the second engagement position. 
     Here, “translate” means that the relevant element (e.g. first or second abutment member) moves from a first position to a spatially different second position. Such motion could be achieved by sliding or by rotation about an (off-centre) axis or a combination. 
     More preferably, the second abutment member is connected to the second locking member. More preferably, it is the second abutment member that is translatably mounted. The second abutment member may translate and cause the second locking member to translate from the first engagement position to the second engagement position. 
     Such an arrangement allows that when the second abutment member is translated to the non-abutting position (and therefore allow the table element to translate), the (first or) second locking member engages with the other locking member to prevent rotation of the support member. Hence, if the table element is able to translate, the support member must be in the second rotation configuration and is not able to rotate. This prevents the support member rotating, for example when translation of the table element has caused the centre of gravity of the table element to move from one side of the support member to the other side of the support member (i.e. when the centre of gravity moves over the axis of rotation of the support member). Also, in the abutting position, the table element cannot translate, but the support member can still rotate (as the (first or) second locking member is not engaged with the other locking member). 
     Preferably, the second abutment member translates between the abutting and non-abutting positions in a longitudinal direction of the support member. 
     Preferably, one of the first and second abutment members is a first cam surface and the other of the first and second abutment members is a cam follower. 
     More preferably, the cam surface is angled so as to have both a transverse and a longitudinal (in a longitudinal direction of the support member) component. Therefore, as the table element is translated transversely towards the second transverse position, this causes the cam follower to follow the angled cam surface. This causes the second abutment member (connected to the second locking member) to move longitudinally (in a longitudinal direction of the support member), to the non-abutting position, and also cause the second locking member to move longitudinally to engage with the first locking member. In reverse, as the table element is translated to the first transverse position, the cam follower again follows the angled cam surface in the opposite direction. This causes the second abutment member to move longitudinally (in a longitudinal direction of the support member), to the abutting position, and also cause the second locking member to move longitudinally to dis-engage from the first locking member. 
     Even more preferably, the cam surface is angled at approximately 45 degrees, for example between 30 degrees and 60 degrees. 
     Preferably, the table arrangement further comprises a second cam surface, adjacent the first cam surface, such that the cam follower can follow the second cam surface after following the first cam surface, and wherein the second cam surface urges the (first or) second abutment member (longitudinally) away from the abutting position. This prevents the second abutment member from returning to the longitudinal position of the abutting position and therefore prevents the second locking member from moving from the second engagement position (engaged) position to the first engagement position (disengaged) position. 
     Preferably, the second cam surface is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the support member, such that the cam follower follows the first and second cam surfaces as the table element moves between first and second transverse positions. Hence, the second abutment member is prevented from returning to the longitudinal position of the abutting position when the table element is being translated. 
     Preferably, the first abutment member (connected to the table element) is the first cam surface and the second abutment member (connected to the second locking member) is the cam follower. In other words, the (angled) cam surface is connected to the table element. For example, the cam surface may be located on an underside of the table element (for example, on the underside of the table surface). 
     Preferably, the (first or) second locking member is biased towards the first engagement (disengaged) position. This means that a user force (to overcome the bias) is required to move the second locking member into the second engagement (engaged) position (and allow the second abutment member to move to the non-abutting position and allow the table element to translate to the second transverse position). This also means that the table element is urged into the first transverse position (and the second abutment member is urged to the abutting position and the second locking member is urged into the first engagement (disengaged) position), at least when the cam follower is on the angled cam surface. The biasing may be provided by a spring. 
     Preferably, the second abutment member is connected to the second locking member by a locking rod, extending longitudinally through the support member. The biasing may be provided by biasing the locking rod in a first longitudinal position, in which the second locking member is in the first engagement position and the second abutment member is in the abutting position. 
     Preferably, the second locking member is rotatably mounted with respect to the second abutting member such that, as the support member is rotated, the second abutting member also rotates, but the second locking member may not. This ensures that the second locking member is able to align with the first locking member at a required orientation of the first locking member, whilst also allowing the second abutment member to rotate with the support member (and table element). 
     More preferably, the second locking member is prevented from rotating by the base structure. This could be done by at least part of the second locking member being located in a channel in the base structure. 
     Preferably, the support member is translatably mounted to the base structure, such that the support member can translate longitudinally between first and second longitudinal positions. The first longitudinal position may be a retracted position and the second longitudinal position may be an extended position. The support member may slide in relation to the base structure. 
     Here, “translate” means that the relevant element (e.g. support member) moves from a first position to a spatially different second position. Such motion could be achieved by sliding or by rotation about an (off-centre) axis or a combination. 
     More preferably, the support member is prevented from rotating between first and second rotation configurations when the support member is in at least one position other than the second longitudinal position. 
     Even more preferably, the support member is prevented from rotating when the support member is in any longitudinal position between the first and second longitudinal positions, other than the second longitudinal position. In other words, the support member may be prevented from rotating towards its second rotation (more deployed) configuration until the support member is fully extended to the second longitudinal (more deployed) position. This prevents the support member being rotated (which may cause, for example, the table element to be rotated) until the support member is extended, for example such that the, for example, table element is out of a housing. This prevents the table element, for example, from colliding with sides/surround of the housing. 
     Preferably, the support member is prevented from translating between first and second longitudinal positions when the support member is in at least one position other than the first rotation configuration. 
     More preferably, the support member is prevented from translating when the support member is in any rotation configuration between the first and second rotation configurations, other than the first rotation configuration. In other words, the support member may be prevented from translating towards its first longitudinal (more stowed/retracted) position until the support member is fully rotated to the first rotation (more stowed) configuration. This may prevent the table element, for example from colliding with sides/surround of the housing. 
     Preferably, the table arrangement further comprises a first slide element connected to the base structure, and a corresponding, second slide element connected to the support member, wherein, when the support member is in the first rotation configuration the second slide element aligns with the first slide element and is able to slide with respect to it. This means that the support member can (only) slide when it is in the first rotation configuration. 
     More preferably, the first slide element is a cam follower and the second slide element comprises a cam track, preferably with a longitudinal portion and/or a curved portion. 
     Even more preferably, the cam follower may follow the longitudinal portion in at least some positions between the first and second longitudinal positions of the support member (for example, between an intermediate position (between the first and second longitudinal positions) and the second longitudinal position) and may follow the curved portion in configurations between the first and second rotation configurations of the support member. 
     Alternatively, the first slide element may form a longitudinal channel within the base structure and the second slide element is a notch corresponding to the channel. Preferably, the notch is part of the first locking member. Preferably, the support member can only rotate when the notch is able to rotate out of the longitudinal channel into a transverse channel. 
     Alternatively, or additionally, the support member may be prevented from rotating (in at least some positions other than the second longitudinal position) by the table element being at least partially surrounded by a frame of the base structure. The table element may translate out of the frame, so it can rotate, when the support member is translated with respect to the base structure. The support member may be prevented from rotating by the frame of the base structure in positions from the first longitudinal position to an intermediate position (between the first longitudinal position and the second longitudinal position). Preferably, in between the intermediate position (between the first longitudinal position and the second longitudinal position) and the second longitudinal position, the support member may be prevented from rotating by the first and second slide elements. 
     Preferably, the table arrangement further comprises a mounting structure and wherein the base structure is translatably mounted to the mounting structure such that the base structure can translate between stowed and deployed positions. This may allow a telescopic movement arrangement with the mounting structure, base structure and support member. This allows the table element to be brought further out away from a housing (for example, provided by the mounting structure). The base structure may slide in relation to the mounting structure. The base structure may translate with respect to the mounting structure in a longitudinal direction of the support member. 
     Here, “translate” means that the relevant element (e.g. base structure) moves from a first position to a spatially different second position. Such motion could be achieved by sliding or by rotation about an (off-centre) axis or a combination. 
     The first slide element (connected to the base structure) may be part of, or connected to, the mounting structure (rather than being directly connected to the base structure). This allows the first slide element to prevent translation of the support member in relation to the mounting structure. 
     Preferably, the base structure and the support member are coupled together such that upon a user translating the support member away from the mounting structure, it is the base structure that translates in relation to the mounting structure (rather than the support member translating in relation to the base structure). 
     More preferably, the base structure and the support member are coupled by an attractive magnetic force. 
     Preferably, the base structure abuts against a stop of the mounting structure in the deployed position. Hence, a user, upon translating the support member away from the mounting structure, translates the base structure in relation to the mounting structure, then overcomes the coupling of the base structure and the support member and translates the support member in relation to the base structure. 
     According to a second aspect of the invention there is also provided a method of deploying or stowing the table element of the table arrangement described above. 
     According to a third aspect of the invention there is also provided an aircraft seat module or an aircraft comprising a table arrangement as described above. The table arrangement is mounted to the aircraft seat module or the aircraft for use by a passenger. 
     According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is also provided a method of deploying a table element of a table arrangement, the method comprising the following steps: rotating a support member of the table arrangement from a first rotation configuration to a second rotation configuration, thereby causing a first locking member to move to align with a second locking member, then moving the table element of the table arrangement transversely in relation to the support member, thereby causing the first or second locking member to move from a first engagement position to a second engagement position with respect to the other locking member. 
     Preferably, the first or second locking member in the second engagement position prevents the first locking member from moving to a non-aligned configuration with respect to the second locking member, and thereby prevents the support member from rotating from the second rotation configuration to the first rotation configuration. 
     Preferably, the first locking member in the aligned position allows the first or second locking member to move into the second engagement position. 
     Preferably, when the first locking member is in the aligned position, a second abutment member is able to move to a non-abutting position in relation to a first abutment member (and allow the table element to translate), (and move the first or second locking member towards the second engagement position). 
     Preferably, the method further comprises the step of translating the support member in relation to a base structure of the table arrangement prior to rotating the support member and more preferably, prior to translating the support member in relation to the base structure. 
     Preferably, the method further comprises the step of translating the base structure in relation to a mounting structure of the table arrangement prior to rotating the support member. 
     According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is also provided a method of stowing a table element of a table arrangement, the method comprising the following steps: moving the table element of the table arrangement transversely in relation to a support member of the table arrangement, thereby causing a first or second locking member to move from a second engagement position to a first engagement position with respect to other locking member, then rotating the support member from a second rotation configuration to a first rotation configuration, thereby causing the first locking member to move to a non-aligned configuration with respect to the second locking member. 
     Preferably, the first or second locking member in the first engagement position allows the first locking member to move to the non-aligned configuration with respect to the second locking member, and thereby allows the support member to rotate from the second rotation configuration to the first rotation configuration. 
     Preferably, the first locking member in the non-aligned configuration prevents the first or second locking member moving to the second engagement position. 
     Preferably, the first or second locking member is able to move from the second engagement position towards the first engagement position when a second abutment member is in an abutting position in relation to a first abutment member (and not allowing the tale element to translate). 
     Preferably, the method further comprises the step of translating the support member in relation to a base structure of the table arrangement after rotating the support member. 
     Preferably, the method further comprises the step of translating the base structure in relation to a mounting structure of the table arrangement after rotating the support member and more preferably after translating the support member in relation to the base structure. 
     It will of course be appreciated that features described in relation to one aspect of the present invention may be incorporated into other aspects of the present invention. For example, the method of the invention may incorporate any of the features described with reference to the apparatus of the invention and vice versa. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings of which: 
         FIG. 1 a    shows a perspective view of an aircraft seat module, including a table arrangement according to a first embodiment of the invention, in a stowed configuration; 
         FIG. 1 b    shows a perspective view of the aircraft seat module of  FIG. 1 a   , with the table arrangement in a partially deployed configuration; 
         FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a mounting structure of the table arrangement; 
         FIG. 3 a    shows a perspective view of the mounting structure, a base structure and a table structure of the table arrangement, with the table arrangement in the partially deployed configuration; 
         FIG. 3 b    shows a perspective view of the mounting structure, the base structure and the table structure, with the table arrangement in a further deployed configuration; 
         FIG. 3 c    shows a reverse perspective view of the mounting structure, the base structure and the table structure, with the table arrangement in the further deployed configuration; 
         FIG. 4  shows an enlarged perspective view showing a supporting structure of the table arrangement, in the further deployed configuration; 
         FIG. 5 a    shows a perspective view of a table slide structure, a supporting structure, and part of the base structure of the table arrangement, in a rotated configuration; 
         FIG. 5 b    shows a perspective view of the supporting structure, a locking structure and part of the base structure of the table arrangement, in the rotated configuration; 
         FIG. 5 c    shows a reverse perspective view of the supporting structure, the locking structure and the table slide structure, in the rotated configuration; 
         FIG. 6 a    shows an end view of the base structure, locking structure and supporting structure in the non-rotated position; 
         FIG. 6 b    shows a perspective view of the base structure, locking structure and supporting structure in the rotated position; 
         FIG. 6 c    shows a perspective view of the base structure, locking structure and supporting structure in the rotated position, with the locking structure in an engaged position; 
         FIG. 7 a    shows a perspective view of the locking structure; 
         FIG. 7 b    shows a reverse perspective view of the table slide structure, supporting structure, and part of the base structure of the table arrangement, in the rotated configuration; 
         FIG. 8  shows a sectional view of the base structure, supporting structure, locking structure, table slide structure and table structure; 
         FIG. 9  shows a cut-away underside view of the table structure; 
         FIG. 10 a    shows an enlarged perspective view showing the mounting structure and supporting structure of the table arrangement, in the further deployed configuration; 
         FIG. 10 b    shows an enlarged perspective view showing the mounting structure and supporting structure of the table arrangement, in a partially rotated configuration; 
         FIG. 10 c    shows an enlarged perspective view showing the mounting structure and supporting structure of the table arrangement, in the fully rotated configuration; 
         FIG. 11 a    shows a perspective view of the aircraft seat module, with the table arrangement in the rotated configuration; and 
         FIG. 11 b    shows a perspective view of the aircraft seat module, with the table arrangement in a rotated and translated configuration. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1 a    shows a perspective view of an aircraft seat module  100 , including a table arrangement  200  according to a first embodiment of the invention, in a stowed configuration. Here, the table arrangement  200  is stowed within a table housing  111  of a console  110  of the module  100 . 
       FIG. 1 b    shows a perspective view of the aircraft seat module  100  of  FIG. 1 a   , with the table arrangement  200  in a partially deployed configuration. Here, a table structure  260  of the table arrangement  200  has been partially slid out from the housing  111 . 
     Various elements of the table arrangement  200  will now be described. These different elements allow the table structure  260  of the table arrangement  200  to be partially slid out of the housing  111  (as in  FIG. 1 b   ), then fully slid out of the housing  111 , then rotated to horizontal (as in  FIG. 11 a   ) and then translated forwards (as in  FIG. 11 b   ). Importantly, the interaction of the different elements of the table arrangement  200  provides that these different motions cannot occur at the same time. 
       FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a mounting structure  210  of the table arrangement  200 . The mounting structure  210  is mounted inside the housing  111 , to a wall of the console  110 , using screws. The mounting structure  210  cannot be seen in  FIGS. 1 a  and 1 b   . The mounting structure  210  comprises a flat rectangular frame  213 , with an upper rail  211  running along a top long side and a lower rail  212  running along a bottom long side. As it is shown in  FIG. 2 , the left hand side end of the mounting structure  210  is mounted furthest into the housing  111  and the right hand side end is mounted near the right hand open side of the housing  111 . At the right hand side end of the mounting structure  210  is a downwardly protruding portion  214 , which also extends outwardly  215  (away from the flat frame  213 ) at its distal end. On the outwardly extending portion  215  is a cylindrical cam follower  216 . This cam follower  216  interacts with a cam track  235  of a supporting structure  230 , as will be described later. 
       FIG. 3 a    shows a perspective view of the mounting structure  210 , a base structure  220  and the table structure  260 , with the table arrangement  200  in the partially deployed configuration. This Figure shows the table structure  260 , with its underside  262  showing, partially slid out from the housing  111  (as in  FIG. 1 b   ). Here, the base structure  220  can be seen. This base structure  220  is mounted to the mounting structure  210  by an upper runner ( 221 , but not visible) and a lower runner ( 222 , but not visible), corresponding to the upper and lower rails  211 ,  212  of the mounting structure  210 . The base structure  220  also comprises a vertical containment frame  223 . This containment frame  223  contains a left hand end of the vertical table structure  260  and prevents it from rotating towards a horizontal position while the table structure  260  is stowed and partially deployed. The base structure  220  also comprises an elongate support rod holder  224 , extending from the containment frame  223  out of the housing  111 . 
     To move the table structure  260  from the stowed position to the partially deployed position, the base structure  220  moves on the rails  211 ,  212  of the mounting structure  210  until it hits a first stop (not shown). 
       FIGS. 3 b  and 3 c    show perspective views of the mounting structure  210 , the base structure  220  and the table structure  260 , with the table arrangement in a further deployed configuration.  FIG. 3 c    is a reverse view, with the upper table surface  261  of the table structure  260  visible. In both Figures, the table structure  260  has been further pulled out away from the housing  111  so that the table structure  260  is clear of the containment frame  223 . To do so, the table structure  260  has been pulled away from the base structure  220 . 
     This has been done by pulling a support rod  231  (to which the table structure  260  is mounted, and which will be described in more detail later) of a support structure  230  out of the elongate support rod holder  224  of the base structure  220 . The support rod  231  can be pulled out of the support rod holder  224  until it meets a second stop (not shown here). 
     During the first stage of deployment (when the base structure  220  moves in relation to the mounting structure  210 ), the support structure  230  is prevented from moving in relation to the base structure  220  by a pair of magnets. One of the magnets is attached inside the top of the containment frame  223  and the other magnet is attached inside the corresponding top left corner of the table structure  260 , as it is shown in  FIGS. 3 a  and 3 b   . Once the table arrangement is in the partially deployed position and the first stop has been reached, further pulling on the table structure  260  overcomes the force from the magnets to allow the support rod  231  to move in relation to the rod holder  224 . 
     There is also a second pair of magnets; with a first magnet attached to the mounting structure  210  and a second magnet attached to the base structure  220 , to prevent them moving in relation to each other. Hence, during a first stage of stowage, the table structure  260  (and support structure  230 ) slide in relation to the base structure  220  and then, once the table structure  260  abuts against the containment frame  223 , the base structure  220  is pushed to overcome the attractive magnetic force of the second magnetic coupling, and the base structure  220  is slid in relation to the mounting structure  210 . 
       FIG. 4  shows an enlarged perspective view showing a part of the supporting structure  230  of the table arrangement  260 , almost in the further deployed configuration. This part of the support structure  230  comprises a locking wheel  232  (which is fixedly mounted to the end of the support rod  231 ). 
     In  FIG. 4 , it can be seen that the locking wheel  232  has a cam track  235  on part of the outside circumference of the wheel  232 . This cam track is made up of an outer wall  236  and an inner wall  237 . These walls are parallel to each other (to define the cam track  235  in between them) and extend around a quarter of the circumference of the wheel  232 . At an upper end of the walls  236 ,  237  (as they are shown in  FIG. 4 ), the walls curve to extend the cam track  235  longitudinally outwards  238 , at 90 degrees to the circumferential path of the cam track  235 . The cam track  235  is a width to correspond to the cam follower  216  of the mounting structure and this cam follower  216  sits inside the longitudinal portion  238  of the cam track  235 , when the table structure  260  is being deployed almost to the further deployed position (where the table structure  260  is not being contained by the containment frame  223  of the base structure  220 ), as shown in  FIG. 4 . As the support rod  231  is further pulled out of rod holder  224  to the fully pulled out position (further deployed position, as shown in  FIG. 10 a   ), the cam track  235  moves forwards so that the cam follower  216  then sits at the curved corner between the circumferential portion and the longitudinal portion—i.e. at the top of the circumferential portion of the cam track  235 . This then means that the cam track  235  (and therefore the locking wheel  232  and support rod  231 ) are urged to rotate clockwise “around” (over) the cam follower  216  to a rotated position.  FIG. 10 b    shows the locking wheel  232  starting this rotation motion (partially rotated position).  FIG. 10 c    shows the fully rotated (90 degrees) configuration. This rotation is allowed by the support rod  231  being rotatably mounted in the rod holder  224 . The rotation is prevented from going further than the 90 degrees position, as will be described later. When rotating anti-clockwise from the rotated position to the “non-rotated” position, the rotation is prevented from going further than the 0 degrees position by the longitudinal portion  238  of the inner cam wall  237  abutting against the cam follower  216 . 
       FIGS. 5 a , 5 c  and 7 b    shows perspective views of a table slide structure  250 , the supporting structure  230 , and part of the base structure  220  of the table arrangement  200 , in the rotated (90 degrees) configuration. Here, the locking wheel  232  (and cam track  235  and support rod  231 ) have all rotated 90 degrees clockwise. Here it can be seen that the base structure  220  comprises a frame  225  portion through which the support rod  231  extends so that the locking wheel  232  is located on an inside side of the frame  225 . It is the locking wheel abutting against an inside portion of the frame  225  that prevents the support rod  231  extending further away from the base structure  220  (the second stop of the second sliding motion). The frame comprises a locking pin slot  226  to hold a locking pin  242  of a locking structure  240  (as will be described later) in a vertical position. 
     At an opposite end of the support rod  231  (to the base structure  220 ), a table slide structure  250  is mounted to the support rod  231 , so as to be rotationally fixed in relation to it. The table slide structure  250  comprises a horizontal (when the support rod  231  has been rotated to the rotated (90 degrees) position), flat rectangular member that extends horizontally away from the axis of the support rod  231 . The slide structure  250  has an elongate cylindrical channel  254  for accommodating the far end of the support rod  231 . The slide structure  250  has two pairs of runners  251 ,  252  mounted to the upper surface to provide two movement lines, one at the far end of the table slide structure  250  and one at the near end of the table slide structure  250 . These runners  251 ,  252  accommodate rails  263 ,  264  on an underside of an upper table surface  261  of the table structure  260 , as will be described later. 
     The table slide structure  250  also comprises an oval hole  253 , in line with the elongate channel  254  and support rod  231 , and on the upper surface, towards a far end of the slide structure  250 , for accommodating a cam follower  244  of the locking structure, as will be described later. Here, the cam follower  244  is accommodated in a near side of the oval hole  253 . 
       FIG. 7 b    is a reverse perspective view and shows the far end of the table slide structure  250 . Here a hole  256  is provided for allowing a far end of the locking structure  240  to protrude, as will be described later. 
       FIG. 5 b    shows a perspective view of the supporting structure  230 , the locking structure  240  and part of the base structure  220  of the table arrangement  200 , in the rotated configuration. Here, as in  FIGS. 5 a  and 5 c   , it can be seen that the locking wheel  232  has been rotated to the rotated position in the frame  225 . The support rod  231  has also been rotated (as it is rotationally locked with the locking wheel  232 ), within the rod holder  224 .  FIG. 5 b    shows part of the locking structure  240  at a far end of the support structure  230 . This will be described in more detail in relation to  FIG. 7   a.    
     Looking at  FIG. 6 a   , which shows an end view of the base structure  220 , locking structure  240  and supporting structure  230  in the non-rotated position, more features of the locking wheel  232  can be seen. The locking wheel  232  has a prong  234  on the clockwise side of a locking pin slot  233  of the locking wheel  232 . This prong  234  sits behind the locking pin  242  with the locking wheel  232  is in the “non-rotated” position of  FIG. 6 a   . It can do so because it is thinner than the rest of the locking wheel  232 , as can be seen in  FIG. 6 b   . This prevents the locking pin  242  moving backwards (as viewed in  FIG. 6 a   ) when the locking wheel is in this “non-rotated” position. 
     The clockwise face of the prong  234  has a contoured surface  239   a  which abuts against a corresponding contoured face  227   a  of the locking frame  225  when the locking wheel  232  is in the rotated (90 degrees position. This abutting prevents the locking wheel  232  from rotating further than this 90 degrees position. There is also a further contoured surface  239   b  approximately 180 degrees around the locking wheel  232 . At the same 90 degrees position, this surface abuts against a corresponding contoured surface  227   b  (not shown) of the locking frame  225 . 
       FIG. 6 b    shows a perspective view of the base structure  220 , locking structure  240  and supporting structure  230  in the rotated (90 degrees) position. Here, the locking wheel  232  has been rotated clockwise (until contoured surface  239   a  of the wheel  232  has abutted against corresponding contoured surface  227   a  of the frame  225 ). Here, it can be seen that the locking pin slot  233  then lines up with the locking pin  242  of the locking structure  240  and allows the locking pin  242  to be moved outwards (into the page, as viewed in  FIG. 6 b   ) from the disengaged position of  FIG. 6 b    to the engaged position of  FIG. 6   c.    
       FIG. 7 a    shows a perspective view of the locking structure  240 , which will now be described in more detail. The locking structure  240  comprises an elongate locking rod  241  which is mounted within the support rod  231 . At a near end is fixedly mounted the locking pin  242  that sits in the frame of the base structure  225 . As previously discussed, the locking pin  242  is fixed in a vertical orientation by the slot  226  in the frame  225  and so the locking rod  241  is also held in a fixed orientation. Towards the far end of the locking rod  241  is a sleeve  243  mounted on the locking rod  241 . The sleeve  243  is rotatably mounted on the rod  241  so can rotate in relation to it. Mounted on the sleeve  243  is the cam follower  244  mentioned earlier. At the very far end of the locking rod  241 , on the portion of the locking rod  245  protruding from the far end of the sleeve  243  is a bias spring  246 . This bias spring  246  abuts against a third stop (not shown) adjacent the hole  256  in the table slide structure  250 . When the locking rod  241  is pushed towards to protrude into the hole  256  in the table slide structure  250 , the spring  246  is caused to compress (by the far side of the sleeve  243  pushing on it and compressing it against the third stop). 
       FIG. 8  shows a sectional view of the base structure  220 , supporting structure  230 , locking structure  240 , table slide structure  250  and table structure  260 . At the near end, the locking pin  242  is held vertically by the frame  225 . It is connected to the locking rod  241  that runs through the support rod  231 . On the far portion of the locking rod  241  (that protrudes from the support rod  231 ) the sleeve  243  is mounted. 
     The cam follower  244  of the sleeve  243  can also be seen protruding upwards through the oval hole  253  in the table slide structure so as to be adjacent the underside of the table upper surface  261  of the table structure  260 . The table structure  260  is mounted by rails  263 ,  264  in runners  251 ,  252 . The rails  263 ,  264  are located on the underside of the table upper surface  261  and can be seen in  FIG. 9 , which shows a cut-away underside view of the table structure  260 , with the underside  262  removed. 
     On the underside of the table upper surface  261  of the table structure  260 , there is also a cam track  265  running across the width of the table structure  260  (i.e. transverse to the support rod  231  when mounted on the table slide structure  250 ). The cam track  265  comprises an elongate portion  267 , running across most of the width, with an angled portion  266  located at one end. The angled portion  266  is at a 45 degree angle to the width and length of the table structure  260  (i.e. it is at a 45 degree angle to the longitudinal axis of the support rod  231  and the transverse travel direction of the table structure  260 ). 
     The cam follower  244  sits in this angled portion  266  of the cam track  265 . However, when in this fully rotated position, the locking pin  242  lines up with the locking slot  233 . Hence, when a user pushes on the table structure  260  in a transverse direction (i.e. into the page, as shown in  FIG. 8 ), a near wall  266   a  of the angled cam track urges the cam follower  244  into the longitudinal portion  267  of the cam track  265  so that the table structure  260  can slide transversely on the runners  251 ,  252 . In urging the cam follower  244  into the longitudinal portion, the cam follower  244  is forced to move slightly toward the far end (to the far end of oval hole  253 ). This causes the locking rod  241  and locking pin  242  to also shift in this far direction. This causes the locking pin  242  to move from the disengaged position of  FIG. 6 b    to the engaged position of  FIG. 6 c   . As the locking pin  242  is then adjacent and lateral to the prong  234 , this prevents the locking wheel  232  from rotating back to the “non-rotated” position. This is needed, as otherwise, when the table structure  260  is translated transversely to the support rod  231 , its centre of gravity would move from being on the near side of the rotational axis of the support rod  231  to being on the far side of it (as it is shown in  FIG. 8 ), the support rod  231  would be caused to rotate back towards the “non-rotated” position. 
       FIG. 11 a    shows a perspective view of the aircraft seat module  100 , with the table arrangement  200  in the rotated configuration. Here, the table structure  260  has been rotated downwards so that the upper table surface  261  is uppermost and horizontal.  FIG. 11 b    shows a perspective view of the aircraft seat module  100 , with the table arrangement  200  in a rotated and translated configuration. Here, the table structure  260  has then been pushed forwards (into the page, as shown in  FIG. 11 b   ) to a translated position. This gives a passenger (user) more room to egress from the seat. 
     In use, as previously noted, the table structure  260  of the table arrangement  200  is moved from a fully stowed position (located vertically in the housing  111 — FIG. 1 a   ), to a partially deployed position (where it is partially slid out of the housing  111 — FIG. 1 b   ), then to a further deployed position (fully slid out of the housing  111 — FIG. 3 b   ), then rotated to a rotated (horizontal—see  FIG. 11 a   ) position and then, a fully deployed (translated—see  FIG. 11 b   ) position. 
     Firstly, when the table structure  260  is moved from the fully stowed position to the partially deployed position: The table structure  260  is pulled out by a user. The base structure  220  is moved outwards, on the rails  211 ,  212  of the mounting structure  210  until the base structure  220  reaches a stop (not shown) on the mounting structure  210 . During this motion, the supporting rod  231  is prevented from moving in relation to the base structure  220  by the magnet (not shown). Also, during this motion, the table structure  260  is prevented from rotating by being contained in the containment frame  223  of the base structure  220 . 
     Secondly, when the table structure  260  is moved from the partially deployed position to the further deployed position: The user overcomes the magnetic force to slide the support rod  231  out of the rod holder  224  of the base structure  220 . Further sliding causes the table structure  260  to move out of containment from the containment frame  223 . However, it is then prevented from rotating by the cam follower  216  of the mounting structure  210  engaging in the longitudinal portion  238  of the cam track  235 . Further sliding of the support rod  231  in the holder  224  moves the cam track  235  forwards so that the cam follower  216  is engaged at the top of the circumferential portion when the table structure  260  is in the fully slid out (further deployed position). 
     Thirdly, when the table structure  260  is moved from the further deployed position to a rotated horizontal position: The cam track  235  is then able to rotate “around (over) the cam follower  216  when the user rotates the table structure  260  (and therefore also the support rod  231  and locking wheel  232 ) clockwise until the pairs of contoured surfaces  239 ,  227   a  and  239   b ,  227   b  abut. During this motion, the table structure  260  is prevented from sliding back in relation to the mounting structure  210  or base structure  220 , by the cam track  235  not being able to slide longitudinally in relation to the cam follower  216 . Also, during this motion (and before), the table structure  260  is prevented from translating, due to the cam follower  244  not being able to move past the angled cam surface  266  wall  266   a , because of the locking pin  242  not being able to move into the locking pin slot  233 . 
     Finally, when the table structure  260  is moved from the rotated horizontal position to the fully deployed translated position: A user pushes the table structure  260  in the transverse direction, causing the cam follower  244  to follow the angled cam track  266 . This shifts the cam follower  244  towards the far end (of oval hole  253 ) which causes (through the locking rod  241 ) the locking pin  242  to move into the engaged position with the locking wheel  232 , against the bias of the spring  246 . This then prevents the locking wheel  232  from rotating and so prevents the table structure  260  from rotating back. Once the cam follower  244  is on the elongate cam track  267 , the table structure  260  can simply slide on runners and rails  251 ,  252 ,  263 ,  264  to the fully deployed, translated position. 
     To stow the table structure  260 , the reverse occurs:
         The table structure  260  is translated back so that the cam follower  244  reaches the angled cam surface. The bias spring  246  then causes the locking rod  241  to return to its former (near) position (and the locking pin  242  to return to the disengaged position and the cam follower  244  to return to the near side of oval hole  253 ),   The locking wheel  232  is then able to rotate and so the user can rotate the table structure  260  back up to vertical, when the cam follower  216  abuts against the longitudinal portion  238  of the inner cam wall  237 . Here, the cam track  235  rotates “around” (over) cam follower  216 ,   The table structure  260  can then be slid back into the housing  111  (as the cam follower  216  of the mounting structure is now in the longitudinal portion  238  of the cam track  235 ) firstly by the support rod  231  sliding into the rod holder  224  (where the table structure  260  is then contained in the containment frame  223 ) and secondly by the base structure  220  sliding on the rails  211 ,  212  of the mounting structure  210 .       

     Whilst the present invention has been described and illustrated with reference to particular embodiments, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention lends itself to many different variations not specifically illustrated herein. By way of example only, certain possible variations will now be described. 
     Instead of having the cam track  235  around the locking wheel  232  to prevent rotation of the support rod  231 , it may be possible to have an elongate channel in the base structure  220  that accommodates a corresponding notch of the locking wheel. When the notch reaches the end of the elongate channel (i.e. in the fully slid out, further deployed position), it could then rotate in a transverse channel (in the base structure and mounting structure). It is noted that the notch being in the transverse channel would prevent the notch from sliding in the elongate channel and therefore prevent sliding of the table structure  260  (in relation to both the base structure and mounting structure) if the table structure  260  were rotated away from the “non-rotated” position. 
     The locking pin  242  may be mounted to a rotatable latch such that it rotates with respect to the latch axis between the disengaged and engaged positions. 
     The cam follower  244  may be mounted on a swing arm so as to rotate with respect to the swing arm axis between the near and far positions. 
     As another alternative, the support rod  231  may be rotatably fixed to the base structure  220  and the table slide structure  250  may be rotatably mounted on the support rod  231 . In this example, the locking wheel  232  may have a first cam follower on it that engages with an angled cam surface (part of a cam track) on the table structure  260 . A corresponding locking member  242  may be located on the table slide structure  250  and can lock with the locking wheel  232  when the table slide structure  250  is rotated relative to the support rod  231  into a rotated position. Locking of the two locking members  232 ,  242  may be achieved by translating the table structure  260  and, by the angled cam track, causing the table structure  260  and table slide structure  250  to shift longitudinally in relation to the support rod  231 . The locking wheel  232  may also have a second cam follower that engages with a cam receiver on the table structure  260 . These two cam elements engage when the table structure  260  is in a vertical “non-rotated” position to prevent the table structure  260  translating when not in the horizontal “rotated” position. 
     In this embodiment, looking at the wording/features of the claims; the base structure includes the base structure  220  and the support rod  231 , the support structure is provided by the table slide structure  250 , first locking member is corresponding locking member  242  and the second locking member is the locking wheel  232 . 
     Where in the foregoing description, integers or elements are mentioned which have known, obvious or foreseeable equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. Reference should be made to the claims for determining the true scope of the present invention, which should be construed so as to encompass any such equivalents. It will also be appreciated by the reader that integers or features of the invention that are described as preferable, advantageous, convenient or the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that such optional integers or features, whilst of possible benefit in some embodiments of the invention, may not be desirable, and may therefore be absent, in other embodiments.