Collapsible Bed Frame with Rotatable Couplers for Simplified Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible bed frames are difficult for ordinary users to assemble due to complex connections, requiring time and energy, and often result in an unpleasant experience.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible bed frame design featuring frame units connected by rotatable couplers that allow for contraction and expansion while remaining on a plane, forming a 'W' shape in an intermediate state, simplifying assembly and reducing the need for disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If bed frames are disassembled for shipping to save space and reduce cost, then shipping efficiency is improved, but assembly complexity increases significantly for end users
Solution Approach 1:
The bed frame is divided into modular frame units that can be independently collapsed and connected. Each frame unit contains integrated connector mechanisms that simplify the assembly process while allowing the overall structure to be disassembled for compact shipping.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame units are designed to collapse into compact configurations that nest within each other during shipping. The connectors are integrated into the frame structure itself, eliminating the need for separate complex assembly operations at the destination.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional collapsible bed frames use complex connections to enable folding, then collapsibility is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficult assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector mechanisms are merged with the frame units themselves rather than being separate components. This integration allows the connectors to move and rotate with the frame units, enabling automatic alignment and connection during assembly, thereby simplifying the operation while maintaining full collapsibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are designed with rotational freedom along axes perpendicular to the frame plane, allowing them to dynamically adapt their orientation during assembly and operation. This dynamic capability enables simple user actions to achieve proper alignment and secure connection without complex manual adjustment.
3Reliability
If frame units are connected with multiple connectors to ensure stability, then structural reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each connector is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it connects adjacent frame units, provides rotational freedom for alignment, and integrates structural support. This multi-functionality allows adequate structural reliability to be achieved with fewer connector components overall.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are pre-configured with rotational freedom and integrated mounting structures that automatically align during assembly. This preliminary design of the connection mechanism eliminates the need for multiple separate alignment and securing operations, reducing the apparent complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
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
The design enables easy expansion and contraction without disassembly, reducing assembly time and complexity, making it manageable for end users and maintaining a compact size.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second couplers are disposed at the first body and rotatable along a first axis of the first body. The first axis of the first body of each first connector is substantially perpendicular to a first plane defined by a top surface of the collapsible bed frame when it is expanded.
Implementation Method 2
Each of the first and second frame units is able to contract and expand while remaining on the first plane. Each of the first and second frame units has a middle pivoting portion such that when in an intermediate state between contracted and expanded states, left sides of the first and second frame units collectively form a substantially 'W' shape
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are collapsible beds and bed frames. A collapsible bed frame includes first and frame units disposed side by side and connected with each other at their proximal sides. Each of the first and second frame units comprises a plurality of bar units. Adjacent bar units are connected with each other and rotatable with respect to each other along one or more axes each substantially perpendicular to a first plane defined by a top surface of the collapsible bed frame when it is expanded. The first and second frame units can contract and expand while remaining on the first plane and while connected with each other.