Dual Power Unit Actuation for Heavy Furniture Folding Flaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for moving folding flaps on furniture lack adaptability and operability, particularly when dealing with different sizes and shapes of flap elements, and often require significant actuation forces and energy supplies.
Innovation Solution
A device with a second power unit and actuating arm attached to the second flap element, allowing independent movement and force application, which relieves the first power unit and joint sections, and includes a force accumulator for energy storage, enabling easier operation and precise control of the folding flap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single power unit acts on the first flap element, then the device structure is simple, but the operability and load-bearing capacity are insufficient for larger and heavier folding flaps
Solution Approach 1:
The single power unit is divided into two separate power units, each acting on different flap elements. This segmentation allows each unit to handle smaller portions of the total load, improving overall operability while distributing the mechanical complexity across separate, manageable components rather than one overloaded complex unit
2Force
If a single power unit is used, then the device is compact, but it requires significant actuation forces for larger and heavier flaps
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation force requirement is segmented by providing two power units that share the total force demand. Each unit applies force to a different flap element, reducing the peak force requirement per unit and enabling the use of smaller, less complex mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The second power unit acts as a counterbalancing system that shares the load with the first power unit. By distributing the gravitational and inertial forces of heavy flap elements across two independent actuation systems, each unit operates within lower force thresholds
3Adaptability or versatility
If the first power unit acts on the first flap element, then the control is simple, but the adaptability to different sizes and shapes of flap elements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two independent power units, each capable of being independently adjusted and configured. This allows the first power unit to handle the first flap element while the second power unit handles the second flap element, enabling adaptation to various flap sizes and shapes without redesigning the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
The second power unit provides universal adaptability by being capable of acting on different second flap elements with varying sizes and shapes. The modular design allows the same basic power unit structure to be adapted to multiple configurations through adjustment mechanisms
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
Enhances the operability and load-bearing capacity of folding flaps, allowing for easier operation of larger and heavier flaps, reduces actuation forces, and provides independent energy storage, enabling remote-controlled actuation and improved closing patterns.
Implementation Method 1
The second power unit includes a force accumulator
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for moving a folding flap (91) which is movably received on a furniture body (95) and which comprises at least two folding elements (92, 93) connected via a hinge, comprising a power unit (21) which at least supports the opening of the folding flap (91) by applying a force via an adjusting arm (22) that is arranged on a first flap element (92) in a mounted state. According to the invention a second adjusting arm (32) of a second power unit (31, 32) is provided on the second flap element (93) for an articulated mounting, via which adjusting arm a force can be applied to the folding flap (91).