Portable Cushion Tray With Integrated Cup Holder and Work Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional furniture accessories, such as couch consoles, limit the number of people that can be accommodated and do not provide a convenient location for placing food and other objects, while lacking a versatile and portable solution for use as both a cushion and a working surface.
Innovation Solution
A portable cushion tray with a hard top and cushion bottom, featuring a dual-purpose cup holder, fluted joint for writing instruments, and optional hidden compartment, made from durable materials like wood, plastic, or composite materials, allowing easy movement and use as either a pillow or working surface, and compatible with various furniture styles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fold down console is installed on a couch, then cup holders and storage compartments are provided, but the number of persons the couch can accommodate is limited and versatility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cushion tray is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a decorative cushion when not in use, transforms into a stable tray with cup holders when placed on its side, and provides both storage compartments and surface area for holding objects. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by eliminating the need for separate furniture pieces while enhancing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushion tray utilizes the dynamic property of soft cushions to achieve stability. When placed on its side, the cushion's softness allows it to conform and stabilize on uneven surfaces, transforming from a static decorative item into a dynamic, adaptable serving surface that can be positioned anywhere on the couch.
2Ease of operation
If a stationary console is used on furniture, then storage and cup holders are provided, but mobility and ease of use are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cushion tray is designed as a segmented, modular unit that can be easily separated from the main furniture piece. Unlike permanent built-in consoles, this standalone tray can be removed and repositioned independently, providing ease of operation without requiring heavy construction materials.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a cushion is used solely as seating, then comfort is provided, but working surface functionality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of a decorative cushion and a serving tray into a single integrated object. The tray structure is incorporated within the cushion's construction, combining soft seating comfort with hard surface functionality for holding food, drinks, and books, thereby achieving adaptability without adding separate structural elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable cushion tray includes a cushion coupled to a tray. The tray has a first maximum perimeter. The cushion has a second maximum perimeter. The first maximum perimeter is one of the same as the second maximum perimeter and disposed inside of the second maximum perimeter. The portable cushion tray is used as a furniture accessory and selectively provides each of a pillow and a working surface for use with furniture.