Dual-Flap Table Connection Unit With Secure Open Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection devices for tables often result in an aesthetically unpleasing design and are not functionally simple or easy to handle, with the pivoted connection unit not being securely anchored in its functional position.
Innovation Solution
A connection device featuring two parallel cover flaps that pivot around spaced-apart horizontal axes, where one flap's movement automatically engages the second flap to secure the connection unit in a functional position, allowing easy access and secure anchoring, with the flaps opening at an angle of 50° to 80° relative to their closed plane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single pivoting flap with connection unit is used, then the structure is simple, but the connection unit is not securely anchored in functional position and accessibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two flaps (first flap with connection unit and second flap without connection unit) into a single integrated assembly that pivots together about a common horizontal axis. This merging ensures that both flaps remain synchronized during opening/closing operations and provides secure anchoring through the engagement of protrusions on the first flap with recesses in the second flap, while maintaining relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic pivoting mechanism where the two flaps can rotate about a horizontal axis to transition between closed and open positions. The connection unit on the first flap becomes accessible when both flaps pivot open, and the dynamic engagement of protrusions with recesses provides automatic securing in the open position, enhancing reliability without complex additional components
2Ease of operation
If the connection unit is positioned above table level in functional position, then accessibility is improved, but the aesthetic design is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cover into two separate flaps (first flap carrying the connection unit, second flap without connection unit) that pivot independently but remain connected. This segmentation allows the connection unit to be positioned on the first flap for easy accessibility when open, while the second flap provides aesthetic coverage when closed, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and appearance
Solution Approach 2:
The second flap acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the aesthetic requirement (providing clean coverage when closed) and the accessibility requirement (allowing connection unit to be reached when open). The second flap pivots with the first flap but lacks connection sockets, providing a visually pleasing surface while enabling access to the connection unit on the first flap
3Ease of operation
If two flaps pivot in opposite directions, then the connection unit becomes accessible, but the flaps may not be securely held in functional position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates protrusions on the first flap and corresponding recesses in the second flap that are预先 positioned to engage automatically when the flaps pivot to the open position. This preliminary arrangement of engagement features ensures that as the flaps move apart during opening, the protrusions naturally slide into and secure within the recesses, holding the connection unit firmly in its functional accessible position without requiring additional active securing mechanisms
Data Source
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AI summary
The connecting unit (17) has two flaps, which are pivoted between a closing- and opening position. A holding or locking unit is provided, by which both flaps are held in an opening- or functional position. The connecting unit has a projection unit or is connected with a projection unit. The connecting unit connected with the former flap is secured against a deviation in a stowed position.