Collapsible Standing Desk Assembly with Nested Panel Latching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing office and study environments are typically equipped with sitting desk arrangements, making it difficult for individuals to transition to standing desks without a portable and stable solution that can easily be set up and transported.

Innovation Solution

A collapsible table assembly that includes a top panel, side panels, and a front panel with latching mechanisms, allowing the assembly to pivot and collapse into a compact form for easy transport while remaining stable and lightweight for use as a standing desk.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a standing desk arrangement is provided, then individuals can stand while working, but the existing sitting desk arrangements make it difficult to transition without a portable solution

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to standing work positionVSAvoidcomplexity of portable standing desk solution

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The standing desk assembly is divided into multiple separable panels (front panel, back panel, side panels, top panel) that can be independently folded and reconfigured. This segmentation allows the complex structure to be broken down into manageable components that are easier to transport and assemble, resolving the contradiction between providing a standing work solution and maintaining portability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The assembly incorporates dynamic folding mechanisms with hinges and latches that allow the structure to transition between expanded (standing desk configuration) and collapsed (transport configuration) states. This dynamic capability enables the desk to adapt to different work positions while maintaining ease of transport when not in use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If a portable standing desk assembly is designed, then it can be transported to different work stations, but it must remain stable when leaned upon

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveportability and ease of transportVSAvoidstability when leaned upon

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The panels are designed to nest within each other when collapsed, with the front panel containing the latch mechanism that secures the entire assembly during transport. This nested configuration maximizes compactness for portability while maintaining structural integrity through the interlocking panel design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism is designed to engage beforehand to secure the top panel to the front panel, creating a stable structure before use. This pre-securing mechanism ensures that when the assembly is deployed as a standing desk, it is already stabilized and ready to support the user's weight and lean.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Weight of moving object

If the assembly is made lightweight for transport, then it can be easily moved to different locations, but it must still provide adequate support for standing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveweight of portable assemblyVSAvoidstrength to support standing position

Core Design Contradiction:

Weight of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

Different panels are constructed with varying material properties and thicknesses optimized for their specific functions. The top panel and front panel, which bear the most load during use, are made with higher strength materials, while side panels and internal structures use lighter materials. This localized optimization provides adequate support strength while minimizing overall weight for portability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 the conversion of conventional desks into standing desks with stability and ease of use, while allowing for compact storage and transport, addressing the need for a portable and versatile solution.

Implementation Method 1

A latch 24 carried by the front panel 22 is configured for engaging with a corresponding latch 26 carried on the top panel 12

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Fastener: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 2

A front panel 22 pivotably connects with the top panel 12, the first side panel 14, and the second side panel 20

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHinge: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS11523682B2Collapsible table and desk assembly for converting a standard desk into a stand-up desk

Publication Date: 2022.12.13 OGARA TADHG

AI summary

Collapsible table assembly includes a top panel, a first side panel and a second side panel selectively, each engaged with the bottom facing surface of the top panel. A front panel pivotably connects with the top panel, the first side panel, and the second side panel. A latch carried by the front panel engages with a corresponding latch carried on the top panel when the top panel is pivotably rotated towards the front panel in a stowing position. The first side panel and second side panel are pivotable towards the front panel. In operation, the assembly is moved from an assembled position to the stowed position when the first side panel and second side panel are pivoted towards the front panel, and the top panel is pivoted until the corresponding latch on the top panel and front panel are engaged.