Conference Table Substructure With Integrated Cable Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large-size tables with long constructions require solid and material-intensive frames for stability, making them expensive and design-restrictive, while also needing separate cable management solutions for power and networking, which complicates their design and increases weight.
Innovation Solution
A table design featuring a substructure with transverse supports and a channel system that allows for adjustable leg placement, integrated cable management, and a height-leveling mechanism, enabling easy customization and reduced material usage while maintaining stability and accommodating electrical installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If solid and material-intensive frames are used for stability in long constructions, then stability is improved, but cost and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into modular components (longitudinal beams, transverse supports, legs) that can be independently positioned and assembled. This segmentation allows stability to be achieved through strategic placement of structural elements rather than continuous material usage, reducing overall weight while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension for cable management by routing cables through the hollow interior of the longitudinal beams and transverse supports. This eliminates the need for separate cable management structures, reducing weight while maintaining organizational functionality.
2Stability of the object's composition
If solid and material-intensive frames are used for stability in long constructions, then stability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame consists of standardized, modular components (longitudinal beams, transverse supports, legs) that can be manufactured independently using standard fabrication processes. This modularity simplifies manufacturing by allowing each component to be produced separately and assembled systematically, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The longitudinal beams and transverse supports serve multiple functions: they provide structural stability, define table dimensions, and contain integrated cable management pathways. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly processes.
3Ease of operation
If separate cable ducts and cable clips are provided for electrical installations, then cable management is achieved, but device complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cable management system is merged with the structural frame by routing cables through the hollow interior of the longitudinal beams and transverse supports. This integration eliminates the need for separate cable ducts and clips, reducing design complexity and material usage while maintaining effective cable organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The longitudinal beams and transverse supports simultaneously provide structural support and cable management functionality. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count and design complexity while ensuring proper cable routing and organization throughout the table structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A table is provided which has variable dimensions, especially a long length, and is mainly used in offices and conferences. The base of the table is supported by feet (6) and carries table leaves (1,1) which are brought together at the longitudinal sides thereof, and an insert (8,81) which can be inserted in-between the leaves, can have different configurations and can be used as a support for various structures. The base of the table includes at least two transversal supports (2) provided with a central sunken channel region (20) from which two extension arms (21) respectively extended in opposite directions, the feet (6) being mounted on the arms, and lateral struts (4) supporting the table leaves (1,1) being arranged on the outside.