Modular Conference Table Leg Alignment for Stable Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular tables lack a secure and aesthetically pleasing method to join individual tables together, often resulting in instability and an unsightly appearance when support legs are adjusted for configuration changes.
Innovation Solution
The modular table system allows individual tables to be secured together by pivoting and adjusting support legs to appear as unitary support legs, using ratchet elements and pivotable mechanisms to align and lock table tops, preventing tilting and enhancing the appearance of the assembled configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If support legs are adjusted for configuration changes in modular tables, then adaptability is improved, but stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support legs are designed to be dynamically adjustable between extended and retracted positions. When tables are joined, the legs can be retracted to align with adjacent table legs, creating a stable unified structure. When tables are separated, the legs extend to provide independent support, thus achieving both adaptability and stability through dynamic adjustment.
2Productivity
If individual tables are joined together, then productivity is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The support legs of adjacent tables are merged into a single aligned structure when tables are joined. By retracting the legs of one table to align with the legs of the adjacent table, the design creates a unified leg structure that simplifies the overall appearance and reduces the perceived complexity of the joining mechanism while maintaining easy assembly.
3Shape
If support legs are moved to appear unitary, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but structural complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable support legs are designed to nest within or align with the leg structure of adjacent tables when retracted. This nesting arrangement allows the legs to be stored or positioned in a compact configuration that creates a clean, unitary appearance from the outside, while the mechanical complexity of the adjustment mechanism remains concealed within the leg structure itself.
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
This solution provides a stable and aesthetically pleasing assembled table with secure alignment of table tops, allowing for various configurations while maintaining structural integrity and enhancing legroom and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the securing element may comprise a ratchet element that is actuatable to draw the first table top toward and against the second table top in order to secure the first table relative to the second table
Implementation Method 2
The second support legs are adjustable between a support orientation, where the second support legs are oriented to support the second table top in a free standing manner, and a non-support orientation
Data Source
AI summary
A modular table and method of assembly comprises a first table having a first table top and a pair of first support legs at opposite end regions of the first table top and a second table having a second table top and a pair of second support legs. The second support legs are adjustably mounted at the second table top and are adjustable relative to the second table top between a support orientation, in which the second support legs support the second table top in a free-standing manner, and a non-support orientation, in which the second support legs do not substantially support the second table top in a free-standing manner. The second table is configured to be secured to the first table when the tables are adjacent to one another. The second support legs are adjustable to the second orientation when the second table is secured to the first table.