Clamp-On Table Top Expander for Fast Seating Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table expansion solutions, such as replacing tables with larger folding ones, are time-consuming and chaotic during busy hours or are prohibitively expensive and difficult to relocate, while extendable tables are not practical for increasing seating capacity efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight table top expander with clamps that attach to an existing table, featuring a pivoting member and clamping mechanism to securely overlay and expand the table surface, accommodating more guests without altering the underlying table structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a larger folding table is used to increase seating capacity, then the table can accommodate more guests, but it is time-consuming to replace tables and creates chaos during busy dining hours
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing a smaller table top inside or on top of a larger table top. The inner table top can be inserted into a recess or placed on the surface of the outer table top, allowing the same table structure to provide different seating capacities. This eliminates the need to replace entire tables when seating capacity needs to be adjusted, as the inner table top can be easily added or removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the table into multiple independent components: an outer table top and an inner table top that can be separately added or removed. This segmentation allows the table to be configured in different states (with or without the inner table top) to accommodate varying seating needs, enabling quick adjustment without chaotic table replacement during busy hours.
2Quantity of substance
If extendable tables are used to increase seating capacity, then more guests can be accommodated, but they are prohibitively expensive and difficult to relocate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses segmentation to create a table system where the inner table top is a separate, removable component. This allows the table to be reconfigured by simply adding or removing the inner table top, making it easy to relocate and reconfigure without the complexity and high cost of traditional extendable tables. The segmented design enables flexible adaptation to different space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a table system that can serve multiple functions: it can operate as a large table when the inner table top is present, or as a smaller table when the inner table top is removed. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate extendable table mechanisms, reducing both manufacturing cost and relocation difficulty while maintaining the ability to accommodate varying seating capacities.
3Quantity of substance
If a table top overlay is used to expand seating capacity, then the table can accommodate more guests quickly, but the clamps must be securely attached without altering the underlying table structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses clamps as intermediary elements that bridge the inner table top and the outer table top without requiring any alteration to the underlying table structure. The clamps are attached to the bottom surface of the inner table top and engage with the outer table top, providing a reliable connection that maintains attachment stability while preserving the integrity of the original table.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by designing clamps with movable components such as pivoting members and adjustable clamping mechanisms. These dynamic elements allow the clamps to adapt to slight variations in table surface positioning while maintaining secure attachment. The movable parts enable the clamps to self-adjust and lock into place, ensuring reliable attachment without requiring precise pre-alignment or structural modification of the underlying table.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables quick and stable expansion of seating capacity by securely overlaying an existing table, converting a smaller table into a larger one to accommodate more guests, suitable for various settings like restaurants and homes, without the need for expensive or cumbersome equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a pivoting member pivotally attached to the base wherein the pivoting member is operable to pivot away from a center of the table top and pivot towards the center of the table top forming a gap comprising a distance in between the pivoting member and the bottom surface
Implementation Method 2
a clamping member operable to increase and decrease the distance between the pivoting member and the bottom surface
Data Source
AI summary
A table expander is provided. The table expander includes a table top. The table top includes a top surface, a bottom surface and an outer edge. The table expander further includes a plurality of clamps attached to the bottom surface of the table top. The clamps may be oriented near the outer edge of the table top and may be equidistant to one another. The present invention may include two, three or four clamps. The table top may be placed on a table so that the clamps are surrounding the edges of the table. The clamps may be secured to the table, thereby securing the table top to the table.