Adjustable Table Leg Positioning for Balanced Collapse and Nesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable table systems face challenges in safely transitioning between operative and collapsed positions, often requiring manual manipulation and lacking balanced stability during transport, which can lead to instability and difficulty in nesting with other tables during storage.
Innovation Solution
The adjustable table apparatus features movable fascia members and dual-bend swing arms that pivot to maintain balance and symmetry, allowing for single-user operation between operative and collapsed positions, and facilitating nesting with other tables by positioning legs for stable support and clearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the table legs are made movable to enable collapsing, then the table can be adjusted from operative to collapsed position, but the table stability and balance during adjustment and transport deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the table legs movable rather than fixed. The legs can dynamically change position from extended (operative) to retracted (collapsed) states, enabling the table to adapt between different configurations while maintaining stability through controlled movement mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetry in the leg positioning during collapsed state, where legs are offset from the central axis rather than symmetrically aligned. This asymmetric arrangement creates a stable triangular support base that prevents tipping during transport while enabling compact storage
2Device complexity
If manual manipulation is required for table adjustment, then the table structure can be simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through spring-loaded mechanisms that automatically assist the leg movement during collapsing and deployment. The springs provide mechanical assistance that reduces the manual effort required, allowing single-user operation without complex motors or actuators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses spring mechanisms as intermediaries between the user's manual input and the leg movement. These springs act as mediators that store and release energy to facilitate smooth, controlled leg transitions, reducing the direct manual manipulation needed
3Volume of moving object
If the table legs are positioned for compact storage, then the nesting capability improves, but the balance and stability during transport deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses asymmetric leg positioning in the collapsed state, offsetting legs from the central axis to create a stable triangular support footprint. This asymmetric arrangement maximizes storage compactness while simultaneously ensuring transport stability by lowering the center of gravity and preventing tipping
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the legs in specific offset locations during the collapsing process. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the table is fully collapsed, the legs are already in optimal positions for both compact storage and stable transport, eliminating the need for additional adjustment steps
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable table apparatus and related method can include a table configured to adjust between an operative position and a collapsed position.