Collapsible Stand With Integrated Support Leg For Table Saws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rolling support stands for heavy objects, such as portable table saws, require significant user effort to set up and break down, and can be dangerous due to rapid unfolding mechanisms when unloaded, posing risks of injury.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible folding stand with a scissor-like folding mechanism and integrated support leg, where the weight of the object assists in unfolding and folding, and a locking mechanism that allows easy movement between open and closed positions with minimal user exertion, using a single locking lever for stability and adjustability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring biasing mechanism is used to automatically unfold the stand, then the setup process is automated and requires minimal user effort, but the mechanism can unfold rapidly and dangerously if released without load
Solution Approach 1:
The stand uses the weight of the carried object to automatically unfold itself. The gravitational force of the object on the stand creates the unfolding force, eliminating the need for external spring mechanisms or significant user effort. The stand services itself by converting the load's weight into the mechanical work needed for deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand transitions from a static folded state to a dynamic unfolding process controlled by the load weight. The mechanism is designed to unfold at a controlled rate determined by the gravitational force of the carried object, preventing rapid dangerous deployment while maintaining automation.
2Strength
If the stand is designed to support heavy objects like table saws, then it provides adequate load-bearing capacity, but it requires significant user effort to lift and position during setup
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism uses the weight of the carried object as a counterforce to assist in the unfolding process. As the stand unfolds, gravity acts on the object to pull the mechanism into the extended position, effectively using the load's weight against the resistance of the folding joints to reduce the effort needed by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand structure is designed so that the load itself performs part of the work of setting up the stand. The gravitational force on the heavy object automatically drives the unfolding mechanism, eliminating the need for the user to manually lift or position heavy components during setup.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the stand structure is made rigid and stable for supporting heavy loads, then it provides adequate support during use, but it becomes difficult to collapse and store
Solution Approach 1:
The stand employs dynamic joints that allow easy collapse when unloaded. The folding mechanism includes pivot points and locking features that enable the structure to transition between stable extended and collapsed states. When the load is removed, the mechanism can be easily collapsed by overcoming the light spring resistance at the joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand is divided into segmented folding members connected by joints. This segmentation allows the structure to be collapsed by sequentially folding each segment, reducing the effort needed compared to collapsing a rigid monolithic structure. The joints are designed to lock during use for stability but allow controlled movement during collapse.
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 easy setup and teardown of heavy objects without heavy lifting, providing increased stability and safety by utilizing the object's weight to facilitate folding and unfolding, reducing the risk of injury from rapid mechanism deployment.
Implementation Method 1
the weight of the object provides a substantial portion of the necessary force needed to pivot said first and second pairs of members
Data Source
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AI summary
A preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a collapsible folding stand (100) for use with a horizontally oriented object such as a portable table saw that is attached to the stand wherein the stand has a front and a rear portion and is capable of being manipulated between open and closed positions. In the open position, the top frame (102) is horizontally oriented. In the closed position, the stand is generally vertically oriented as is the top frame. To move the rolling stand from its open position to its closed position, the user needs only to lift the handle (132) and the top frame (102) will then move to its generally vertical closed position where the latching mechanism (160) can then be engaged. Because of the mechanism advantage of the folding mechanism (112), moving between the open and closed positions in either direction requires very little effort by the user. The preferred embodiment has an integrated support leg (170) that can be selectively positioned and locked to provide increased stability and rigidity for the stand. The support leg has a locking mechanism (178), which when unlocked does not impede the easy movement between open and closed positions in either direction, and which when locked in the open position provides additional stability to the stand. The locking mechanism is operated by a single locking lever (214) and can be adjusted to compensate for wear or degree of force needed to lock the mechanism.