Collapsible table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-purpose tables face challenges in being both customizable and easily transportable, as collapsible features often impede compact storage due to fixed customization locations and pivotable sidewalls that hinder transport and storage efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible table system with detachable extension panels that can be stored between legs or coupled to the table edges or top as shelves, allowing for flexible configuration and easy transportation by retracting legs and using wheels for dolly transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the table includes collapsible features with fixed customization locations and pivotable sidewalls, then the table can be customized for different uses, but the table occupies more storage space and is harder to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The table is divided into modular components: a base table structure and separate detachable extension panels. These panels can be attached or removed based on customization needs, allowing the table to be adapted without requiring fixed pivotable sidewalls or complex collapsible mechanisms. The segmentation enables compact storage of only the essential table structure while panels are stored separately or attached flat against the table.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension panels are extracted as separate detachable components rather than being integrated as fixed pivotable sidewalls. This allows the panels to be removed and stored separately when not in use, reducing the storage volume of the table to only its essential structure. The panels can be attached flat against the table top or stored in a compact manner, minimizing space requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the table includes pivotable sidewalls for customization, then the table can adjust surface area, but the pivotable sidewalls impede compact transport and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The table structure is segmented into a main table body and separate extension panels. Instead of having pivotable sidewalls integrated into the table structure, the panels are detachable components that can be attached to the table top edges. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex pivot mechanisms, making the table much easier to collapse and transport while retaining the ability to adjust surface area by attaching or removing panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The table transitions from a static structure with fixed pivotable sidewalls to a dynamic system where extension panels can be attached or detached as needed. The panels can be positioned in different orientations (vertical or horizontal) and securely attached to the table top, providing dynamic adaptability without the mechanical complexity of pivotable sidewalls. This dynamic approach simplifies the collapse mechanism for transport.
3Volume of moving object
If the table is made collapsible for compact storage, then the table occupies less space, but the table loses customization capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The table system is segmented into an essential collapsible base structure and separate extension panels. The base table can be collapsed to a compact size for storage, while the extension panels can be attached to the collapsed or extended table to provide customization. This segmentation allows the table to maintain both compact storage capability and customization flexibility, as the panels can be attached in various configurations depending on the desired use.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension panels serve multiple functions: they can be attached to extend the table surface area, used as additional shelving, or configured in different orientations to create various table configurations. The same panels can be used with both the collapsed and extended table structures, providing universal adaptability across different table states and use cases without requiring multiple specialized components.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure document is directed to an extendable, collapsible table. The table includes a table top with at least one pair of legs extending pivotably from its underside and at least one pair of extension panels. The extension panels are configured to be attached as shelves to slots on vertical table edges or on the horizontal table top face, or configured to be stored in slots on bars between the pairs of legs. For transport, the pairs of legs, with or without stored extension panels, are pivotably retracted. A user pulls a handgrip near one side of the table top to roll the transportable system using at least one wheel near an opposite side of the table top. The transportable system operates as a dolly when one extension panel is coupled to the horizontal table top face in a location nearest the at least one wheel.