Self-repairing table

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of living furniture, and particularly discloses a self-repairing table which comprises a hydrophobic surface layer. The self-repairing layer is located below the hydrophobic surface layer and comprises a sensor network used for detecting cracks of the hydrophobic surface layer, a plurality of sacrificial capsules used for storing repairing liquid and a broken membrane electrically connected to the sensor network; wherein the broken membrane is used for responding to a detection signal of the sensor network, so that the corresponding sacrificial capsule is broken, and the repair liquid is released to the crack. The self-repairing table can effectively solve the problem that cracks of an existing table cannot be repaired.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of living furniture technology, and in particular to a self-healing table. Background Technology

[0002] Most tables have a hydrophobic surface for easy cleaning. However, the hydrophobic surface is not very strong and is prone to internal cracks due to external impacts, temperature and humidity changes, or long-term heavy loads.

[0003] In existing technologies, cracks in furniture cannot be repaired. As time goes by, tiny cracks will gradually enlarge, eventually causing the entire hydrophobic surface to be completely damaged.

[0004] Therefore, the existing table needs to be improved to address the problem of its irreparable cracks.

[0005] The information disclosed in this background section is included only to enhance the understanding of the context of this disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Utility Model Content

[0006] One objective of this invention is to provide a self-healing table that can effectively solve the problem of existing tables having unrepairable cracks.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides a self-repairing table, comprising:

[0008] Hydrophobic surface layer;

[0009] A self-healing layer, located below the hydrophobic surface layer, includes a sensor network for detecting cracks in the hydrophobic surface layer, a plurality of sacrificial capsules for storing repair fluid, and a perforated membrane electrically connected to the sensor network; wherein the perforated membrane is used to respond to a detection signal from the sensor network, causing the corresponding sacrificial capsule to rupture and release the repair fluid to the crack.

[0010] Optionally, the surface of the hydrophobic layer is coated with a mycelium / polydimethylsiloxane composite film.

[0011] Optionally, the sensor network includes at least one of strain sensors, optical sensors, and pressure sensors, and the sensors are arranged in an array.

[0012] Optionally, a plurality of the sacrificial capsules are arranged around the periphery of each of the sensors.

[0013] Optionally, the sacrificial capsule includes a light-shielding membrane and a repair solution located within the light-shielding membrane;

[0014] The repair solution solidifies after being exposed to ultraviolet light.

[0015] Optionally, the membrane breaking mechanism is a heating network used to cause the corresponding light-shielding membrane to break due to heat.

[0016] Optionally, the heating network includes a plurality of spaced X-axis heating wires and a plurality of spaced Y-axis heating wires;

[0017] The X-axis heating wires and the Y-axis heating wires intersect each other perpendicularly to form the heating network with many XY intersection points;

[0018] A sacrificial capsule is placed above each of the XY intersections.

[0019] Optionally, a gradient density mycelial composite layer is provided below the self-healing layer.

[0020] Optionally, the bottom of the gradient density mycelial composite layer is provided with a memory metal layer.

[0021] Optionally, the bottom of the shape memory metal layer is provided with table legs.

[0022] The beneficial effects of this utility model are as follows: It provides a self-healing table, the working process of which is as follows:

[0023] (1) Crack detection

[0024] When the hydrophobic surface of the desktop cracks due to external force, temperature and humidity changes, or long-term load, the sensor network will monitor the deformation signal of the hydrophobic surface in real time.

[0025] (2) Signal triggering and execution

[0026] Once the sensor network detects a crack, it transmits an electrical signal to the membrane. The membrane then locates the crack based on the signal and triggers the rupture of the sacrificial capsule in the corresponding area.

[0027] (3) Release and filling of repair fluid

[0028] After the sacrificial capsule ruptures, the repair fluid stored inside rapidly seeps out and fills the cracks and gaps through capillary action.

[0029] (4) Curing and Repair

[0030] After the repair fluid filling the cracks hardens, it bonds tightly with the hydrophobic surface, restoring structural strength and sealing the cracks to prevent further expansion.

[0031] Therefore, the self-healing table provided by this utility model can effectively solve the problem that existing table cracks cannot be repaired. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 A vertical cross-sectional view of the self-healing table provided in the embodiment;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a top view of the self-healing layer provided in the embodiment.

[0035] In the picture:

[0036] 1. Hydrophobic surface layer;

[0037] 2. Self-healing layer;

[0038] 201. Detection sensor;

[0039] 202. Sacrificial capsules;

[0040] 203. Membrane rupture; 2031. X-axis heating wire; 2032. Y-axis heating wire;

[0041] 3. Gradient density mycelial composite layer;

[0042] 4. Shape memory metal layer;

[0043] 5. Table legs. Detailed Implementation

[0044] In this utility model, the reference to "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of this utility model. The term "embodiment" appearing in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it specifically limit its independence or connection with other embodiments. In principle, in this utility model, as long as there are no technical contradictions or conflicts, the technical features mentioned in each embodiment can be combined in any way to form corresponding implementable technical solutions.

[0045] Unless otherwise defined, the technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains; the use of related terms herein is merely for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention.

[0046] In the description of this utility model, the term "and / or" is used to describe the logical relationship between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A exists, B exists, and A and B exist simultaneously. Additionally, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects have an "or" logical relationship.

[0047] In this invention, terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual quantity, hierarchy, or order between these entities or operations.

[0048] Without further limitations, the use of terms such as “comprising,” “including,” “having,” or other similar expressions in this invention is intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, which does not exclude the presence of additional elements in a process, method, or product that includes the stated elements, such that a process, method, or product that includes a series of elements may include not only those defined elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, or product.

[0049] Similar to the understanding in the Examination Guidelines, in this utility model, expressions such as "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number; expressions such as "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of this utility model, "multiple" means two or more (including two), and similar expressions related to "multiple" are also understood in this way, such as "multiple groups" and "multiple times," unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0050] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, the space-related expressions used, such as "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "vertical," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the specific embodiments or drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the specific embodiments of this utility model or for the reader's understanding, and do not indicate or imply that the device or component referred to must have a specific position, a specific orientation, or be constructed or operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this utility model.

[0051] Unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "fixing," and "setting," as used in the description of the embodiments of this utility model, should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral setting; it can be a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a communication connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be the internal connection of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art to which this utility model pertains, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this utility model can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0052] This invention provides a self-healing table suitable for high-frequency use scenarios such as homes, offices, and restaurants. It uses a sensor network to detect cracks in real time and triggers the release and curing of repair fluid, solving the problems of difficult repair of internal damage, surface stains, and the risk of burns from high temperatures in traditional tabletops. It also has impact resistance and environmental protection characteristics.

[0053] See Figure 1 The self-healing table provided in this embodiment includes a hydrophobic surface layer 1 and a self-healing layer 2 located below the hydrophobic surface layer 1.

[0054] The surface of the hydrophobic surface layer 1 is coated with a mycelium / polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite film. The mycelium / PDMS composite film is a functional composite material combining biomass materials (mycelium) and organosilicon polymers (PDMS). Its core is the combination of the natural porous structure or bioactivity of mycelium with the chemical stability and flexibility of PDMS to form a thin film material with unique properties. Due to its material characteristics, the superhydrophobic layer has a liquid defense system, achieving anti-adhesion of oily stains and short-term natural rolling off of liquids through a biomimetic lotus leaf effect; enhanced self-cleaning ability, with surface plasma modification forming a nanoscale uneven structure that reduces the contact area of ​​dust particles, and gravity-assisted cleaning when combined with a 3° tilt design on the desktop; and a living active interface, where the mycelium pores can secrete natural antibacterial substances, achieving an antibacterial rate of >99.6% against Escherichia coli and an inhibitory effect on mold growth reaching ASTM G21 standard level 3.

[0055] The self-healing layer 2 includes a sensor network for detecting cracks in the hydrophobic surface layer 1, a plurality of sacrificial capsules 202 for storing repair fluid, and a perforated membrane 203 electrically connected to the sensor network; wherein the perforated membrane 203 is used to respond to the detection signal of the sensor network, causing the corresponding sacrificial capsule 202 to rupture and release the repair fluid to the crack.

[0056] The self-healing table provided in this embodiment works as follows:

[0057] (1) Crack detection

[0058] When the hydrophobic surface 1 cracks due to external force, temperature and humidity changes, or long-term load, the sensor network will monitor the deformation signal of the hydrophobic surface 1 in real time.

[0059] (2) Signal triggering and execution

[0060] After the sensor network detects a crack, it transmits an electrical signal to the membrane rupture 203. The membrane rupture 203 locates the crack based on the signal and triggers the rupture of the sacrificial capsule 202 in the corresponding area.

[0061] (3) Release and filling of repair fluid

[0062] After the sacrificial capsule 202 ruptures, the repair fluid stored inside rapidly seeps out and fills the cracks and gaps through capillary action.

[0063] (4) Curing and Repair

[0064] After the repair fluid filling the cracks hardens, it bonds tightly with the hydrophobic surface layer 1, restoring structural strength and sealing the cracks to prevent further expansion.

[0065] Therefore, the self-healing table provided by this utility model can effectively solve the problem that existing table cracks cannot be repaired.

[0066] See Figure 2 In this embodiment, the sensor network includes a plurality of detection sensors 201, which can be at least one of strain sensors, optical sensors and pressure sensors, and the detection sensors 201 are arranged in an array.

[0067] Specifically, when internal cracks appear in the hydrophobic surface layer 1 due to external forces:

[0068] (1) Strain sensor

[0069] Cracks are identified by detecting deformation (such as tension or compression) of desktop materials. When a crack causes localized deformation, the resistance or optical signal of a sensor (such as a resistance strain gauge or fiber optic grating) changes. The location of the crack is located by the change in electrical signal, making it suitable for rapid response to minute deformations.

[0070] (2) Optical sensor

[0071] Cracks can be detected by utilizing changes in optical signals. For example, when a distributed optical fiber breaks or bends at a crack, it causes optical signal attenuation or abnormal reflection; a camera analyzes the morphology of surface cracks using image recognition technology, making it suitable for detecting visible cracks or complex damage.

[0072] (3) Pressure sensor

[0073] Monitor abnormal pressure distribution on the desktop. Cracks alter the local structural stiffness, and when external forces are applied, the cracked area displays abnormally high or low pressure signals, indirectly reflecting the location of damage. This is suitable for long-term load-bearing monitoring.

[0074] (4) Synergistic effect

[0075] The three sensors are used in combination: strain sensors for rapid positioning, optical sensors for precise imaging, and pressure sensors for assessing the impact of damage, forming an efficient and reliable fully automated crack detection system.

[0076] Optionally, a plurality of sacrificial capsules 202 are arranged around the periphery of each sensor. The dense arrangement of sacrificial capsules 202 around the sensor ensures rapid and directional release of repair fluid at the crack location, shortening the repair response time.

[0077] Furthermore, the sacrificial capsule 202 includes a light-shielding membrane and a repair fluid located within the light-shielding membrane; wherein the repair fluid solidifies upon exposure to ultraviolet light.

[0078] In this embodiment, the membrane rupture 203 is a heating network used to cause the corresponding light-shielding membrane to rupture due to heat.

[0079] Furthermore, the heating network includes a plurality of X-direction heating wires 2031 spaced apart and a plurality of Y-direction heating wires 2032 spaced apart;

[0080] Each of the X-direction heating wires 2031 and each of the Y-direction heating wires 2032 intersects each other perpendicularly to form the heating network with a number of XY intersection points;

[0081] A sacrificial capsule 202 is disposed above each of the XY intersection points.

[0082] In this embodiment, the heating power of the individual X-direction heating wire 2031 or the individual Y-direction heating wire 2032 is low and insufficient to generate enough heat to cause the light-shielding capsule to rupture. However, at the intersection of X and Y, the heat is concentrated, which can cause the corresponding light-shielding capsule to rupture due to heat. This allows for precise control of the rupture of the sacrificial capsule 202.

[0083] In the design of self-healing tables, the light-shielding membrane needs to meet the following two core requirements simultaneously:

[0084] ① Thermal responsiveness: Controllable cracking at a specific temperature (triggered by the superimposed temperature rise of X / Y heating wires);

[0085] ② Light blocking: Completely blocks ultraviolet (UV) rays when not cracked, preventing the repair solution from curing prematurely due to light exposure.

[0086] To address these two requirements, the following material combinations can be used for the light-shielding film:

[0087] 1. Substrate selection: Thermally responsive polymer

[0088] (1) Low melting point polymers:

[0089] Ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA): Melting point adjustable (60°C~120°C), good flexibility, easy to process into film, and highly compatible with opacifiers.

[0090] Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU): It has strong tear resistance and its melting point can be adjusted by modification (such as adding wax fillers to lower the melting point to 80°C~100°C).

[0091] Polycaprolactone (PCL): Biodegradable, melting point approximately 60°C, suitable for low-temperature triggering scenarios.

[0092] (2) Thermosensitive embrittlement materials:

[0093] Styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers (such as SEBS): The embrittlement temperature is controlled by the degree of crosslinking (e.g., embrittlement and cracking after heating to 90°C).

[0094] 2. Light-blocking function achieved

[0095] (1) Light-blocking additives:

[0096] ① Carbon Black: High concentrations (5%~10%) can completely block UV rays (200~400 nm) while enhancing the mechanical strength of the material.

[0097] ② Metal oxide nanoparticles:

[0098] Titanium dioxide (TiO2): reflects / scatters ultraviolet light without affecting thermal responsiveness.

[0099] Zinc oxide (ZnO): Absorbs UV-A / UV-B bands, suitable for transparent or light-colored film applications.

[0100] ③ Organic ultraviolet absorbers:

[0101] Benzotriazoles (such as Tinuvin 326), when blended with polymers, selectively absorb UV, preventing activation of photosensitive components in the repair solution.

[0102] (2) Multi-layer composite structure (optional):

[0103] Outer layer: EVA / TPU layer with a high concentration of light-blocking agent (such as carbon black + TiO2), 10~20 μm thick, to block ultraviolet rays.

[0104] Inner layer: pure thermally responsive polymer (such as low melting point EVA), 5~10 μm thick, to ensure precise thermal cracking.

[0105] In this embodiment, a gradient density mycelial composite layer 3 is disposed below the self-healing layer 2. Gradient density mycelial composite material is an innovative material prepared through a combination of bioengineering and materials science. Its core feature lies in the synergistic design of the mycelial network and density gradient structure. The following is a key analysis:

[0106] 1. Basic Components

[0107] Mycelium: The root network of fungi (such as mushrooms) that grows naturally in a substrate (such as agricultural waste) through bio-fermentation technology, forming a three-dimensional fibrous structure.

[0108] Gradient density: The internal density of a material changes gradually from the surface to the inner layer (or different regions) (e.g., high density → low density transition), which is achieved by controlling the mycelial growth conditions (e.g., nutrient distribution, temperature and humidity).

[0109] 2. Structural and functional characteristics

[0110]

[0111] 3. Specific role in smart dining tables

[0112] ①Structural support: High-density layers (such as the bottom) provide mechanical strength, while low-density layers (such as the top) provide flexible cushioning.

[0113] ② Thermal Adaptation: When the sensor detects high temperature, the pores expand to accelerate heat dissipation (similar to a "breathing" mechanism); when the temperature is low, the pores contract to reduce heat loss.

[0114] ③ Antibacterial and antifungal: Natural metabolites secreted by mycelium (such as chitinase) inhibit the growth of microorganisms and prevent material deterioration.

[0115] In this embodiment, a shape memory metal layer 4 is provided at the bottom of the gradient density mycelial composite layer 3. Furthermore, a table leg 5 is provided at the bottom of the shape memory metal layer 4 to support the entire tabletop.

[0116] The shape memory metal layer 4 is lightweight yet structurally stable. Due to the characteristics of shape memory alloy, this layer has a burn-proof mechanism. For example, it uses a shape memory alloy with a phase transformation temperature of 75°C. When it comes into contact with a high-temperature object, the alloy undergoes an austenitic phase transformation triggered by the temperature, automatically restoring the preset 3mm raised structure to form an air insulation layer.

[0117] In summary, the self-healing table provided in this embodiment has the following advantages:

[0118] ① Self-healing system: The system detects cracks through a sensor network and triggers heating to release repair fluid, thereby automatically repairing internal damage, restoring structural strength, and preventing crack propagation.

[0119] ② Light-controlled curing repair fluid: The light-shielding membrane blocks ultraviolet rays to prevent pre-curing. After heating triggers the membrane to break, the ultraviolet light cures the repair fluid, achieving on-demand and controllable repair.

[0120] ③ Precise control of the heating network: Heat is concentrated at the intersection of the X / Y heating wires, and the capsule is precisely broken at low power, avoiding accidental triggering of hot spots and reducing energy consumption.

[0121] ④ Gradient mycelial composite layer: The mycelial density gradient design combined with the thermal response characteristics of the pores provides shock-resistant buffering, dynamic thermal management and sound absorption and vibration reduction, taking into account both lightweight and environmental protection.

[0122] ⑤ Memory metal anti-scalding: The bottom memory alloy layer rises a preset distance during a phase change at a set temperature, forming an air insulation layer to actively prevent high-temperature contact burns and improve safety.

[0123] Finally, it should be noted that although the above embodiments have been described in the text and drawings of this application, this should not limit the scope of patent protection of this application. Any technical solutions that are based on the essential concept of this application and utilize the content described in the text and drawings of this application, resulting in equivalent structural or procedural substitutions or modifications, as well as the direct or indirect application of the technical solutions of the above embodiments to other related technical fields, are all included within the scope of patent protection of this application.

Claims

1. A self-healing table, characterized in that, include: Hydrophobic surface layer (1); The self-healing layer (2) is located below the hydrophobic surface layer (1) and includes a sensor network for detecting cracks in the hydrophobic surface layer (1), a plurality of sacrificial capsules (202) for storing repair fluid, and a perforated membrane (203) electrically connected to the sensor network; wherein the perforated membrane (203) is used to respond to the detection signal of the sensor network to cause the corresponding sacrificial capsule (202) to rupture and release the repair fluid to the crack.

2. The self-healing table according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface of the hydrophobic surface layer (1) is coated with a mycelium / polydimethylsiloxane composite film.

3. The self-healing table according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor network includes at least one of strain sensors, optical sensors, and pressure sensors, and the sensors are arranged in an array.

4. The self-healing table according to claim 1, characterized in that, A plurality of sacrificial capsules (202) are arranged around the periphery of each of the sensors.

5. The self-healing table according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sacrificial capsule (202) includes a light-shielding membrane and a repair fluid located within the light-shielding membrane; The repair solution solidifies after being exposed to ultraviolet light.

6. The self-healing table according to claim 5, characterized in that, The membrane rupture (203) is a heating network used to cause the corresponding light-shielding membrane to rupture due to heat.

7. The self-healing table according to claim 6, characterized in that, The heating network includes a plurality of spaced X-axis heating wires (2031) and a plurality of spaced Y-axis heating wires (2032). The X-direction heating wires (2031) and the Y-direction heating wires (2032) intersect each other perpendicularly to form the heating network with a number of XY intersection points; A sacrificial capsule (202) is disposed above each of the XY intersection points.

8. The self-healing table according to claim 1, characterized in that, A gradient density mycelial composite layer (3) is provided below the self-healing layer (2).

9. The self-healing table according to claim 8, characterized in that, The bottom of the gradient density mycelial composite layer (3) is provided with a memory metal layer (4).

10. The self-healing table according to claim 9, characterized in that, The bottom of the memory metal layer (4) is provided with table legs (5).

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