Band-Suspended Adjustable Table for Lightweight Height Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Height-adjustable tables with hydraulic systems and motors are bulky, heavy, and inflexible, making them difficult to move and store efficiently, limiting their use in versatile work environments where users need to switch between sitting and standing positions.
Innovation Solution
A height-adjustable table design featuring sturdy supporting structures with textile or plastic bands that allow for manual, infinitely variable height adjustment, using a winding shaft and actuating crank for precise control, and foldable components for space-saving removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hydraulic systems are used for height adjustment, then continuous height adjustment is enabled, but the supporting structures become bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic system with a purely mechanical band-based height adjustment mechanism. The band connects the table top to the supporting structure and can be manually adjusted to achieve continuous height variation without requiring bulky hydraulic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible band instead of rigid hydraulic cylinders to achieve height adjustment. This thin, flexible element provides the necessary functionality while dramatically reducing the weight and bulk of the supporting structures.
2Extent of automation
If motors are used for height adjustment, then automated height control is achieved, but the device becomes heavier and requires power supply connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a manual height adjustment mechanism where the user directly operates the band system without requiring external power sources or automated motors. The user pulls or releases the band to adjust the table height according to their needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the motor and power supply components from the system, extracting only the essential mechanical elements needed for height adjustment. This eliminates the weight and complexity associated with automated systems while retaining the core functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic mechanisms are used, then continuous height adjustment is possible, but the tables become difficult to move and store
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic band-based system that allows the table height to be continuously adjusted during use. The band can be easily lengthened or shortened to accommodate different height requirements while maintaining a compact form factor when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible band provides continuous height adjustment capability while occupying minimal space during storage or transport, making the table highly adaptable and easy to move between locations.
4Manufacturing precision
If latching rails are used for height adjustment, then discrete height positions are achieved, but continuous height variation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of height adjustment from discrete positional steps (latching rails) to continuous length variation (band system). The band can be adjusted to any length within its operational range, enabling continuous height variation while maintaining sufficient precision for practical use.
Data Source
AI summary
In a table having a height-adjustable table top and supporting structures, the table top is secured on the supporting structures so that the supporting structures support the table top. The supporting structures are placeable on a floor. The table includes at least one band which connects the supporting structures and the table top to each other, so that the table top is supported by the supporting structures in that it hangs at the supporting structures with the aid of the band. The table permits a simple, convenient, quick and precise adjustment of the height of the table top according to the needs of the respective user of the table.