Energy-Absorbent Workstation Table for Passenger Impact Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In transit vehicles, workstation tables can pose a risk of injury to passengers during sudden deceleration, as they may collide with the table due to the lack of effective energy absorption mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The workstation table incorporates a deforming mechanism comprising a support member, panels, and deformable members with cams and stops, which absorb energy by deforming when a force is applied, reducing the impact on passengers by changing the angle between the panels and maintaining structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the workstation table is made rigid to maintain structural integrity, then the table can support normal use loads, but the table cannot absorb impact energy during sudden deceleration, causing injury to passengers
Solution Approach 1:
The table transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system with deformable members that can change their mechanical properties. The deformable members remain rigid during normal use but deform during impact events, allowing the table to adapt its behavior based on loading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical parameters of the table members are changed during impact - the deformable members transition from a rigid state to a deformable state, changing their stiffness and energy absorption characteristics. This allows the same structure to provide both strength during normal use and energy absorption during impact.
2Loss of energy
If the table is designed to deform during impact, then energy absorption is improved, but the table may lose structural stability and detach from the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The table is divided into rigid segments (frame, support members) and deformable segments (deformable members). The rigid segments maintain structural stability and attachment, while the deformable segments absorb impact energy through controlled deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable members are pre-positioned and pre-configured to deform in a controlled manner during impact. They are designed beforehand to provide cushioning effect, absorbing energy through predictable deformation patterns that maintain overall structural stability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If deformable members are used to absorb energy, then impact resistance is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components like cams and stops
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable members are designed to automatically deform and absorb energy without requiring external control systems. The cam and stop mechanism provides passive control, allowing the members to self-regulate their deformation based on the impact forces they experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam and stop mechanism acts as an intermediary that controls the deformation behavior of the deformable members. It provides a simple mechanical means to regulate the deformation process without complex electronic or hydraulic control systems.
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
The deforming mechanism effectively reduces the risk of injury by absorbing energy and maintaining the table's attachment to the vehicle, ensuring passenger safety during sudden deceleration events.
Implementation Method 1
a first deformable member and to the first panel by a second deformable member. A first cam and a first stop are associated with the first deformable member. Application of a force to the first panel causes the first arm to move in synchrony with the first deformable member and the second deformable member, and the first deformable member rotates with the first cam until the first cam engages the first stop
Implementation Method 2
The first deforming mechanism is coupled to the first panel and the support member, and comprises a first permanently deformable member. When a force is applied to the first outer edge, the first deforming mechanism causes deformation of the first permanently deformable member, and causes the first panel to move from a first configuration to a second configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A workstation table having a first panel, a second panel, a support member, and a first deforming mechanism is disclosed. The first deforming mechanism is coupled to the first panel and the support member, and includes a first deformable member. The first panel has a first top surface and a first outer edge, and the second panel has a second top surface and a second outer edge. When a force is applied to a first outer edge, the first deforming mechanism causes deformation of the first permanently deformable member, and causes the first panel to move from a first configuration to a second configuration. In the first configuration, the first top surface and the second top surface occupy substantially parallel planes, and in the second configuration the first top surface and the second top surface do not occupy substantially parallel planes.