Expandable Desk with Nested Sliding Surfaces for Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In limited spaces such as homes or apartments, traditional office desks occupy significant space and lack efficient expansion or contraction mechanisms, making them inefficient for versatile use.
Innovation Solution
A desk apparatus with a frame that includes a first and second surface, both slidably received by the frame between stowed and expanded positions, utilizing motors, switches, and sensors for controlled expansion and contraction, allowing for horizontal expansion and vertical adjustment of the desk surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a traditional office desk is used, then it provides a stable working surface, but it occupies significant space in limited areas
Solution Approach 1:
The desk surface is divided into multiple segments that can move relative to each other, transforming the static desk into a dynamic structure capable of changing size. The first and second surfaces can slide along the frame in horizontal planes, allowing the desk to expand or contract based on space availability and usage needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The desk surface is segmented into at least two separate surfaces (first surface and second surface) that can independently move along the frame. This segmentation allows each surface to be positioned flexibly, enabling the desk to adapt to different spatial requirements while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the desk is designed to be expandable, then it increases versatility, but it complicates the device structure
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second surfaces are nested within the frame structure, sliding along tracks or guides that are integrated into the frame. When contracted, the surfaces nest within the frame's footprint; when expanded, they slide outward along the predetermined paths, reducing the overall mechanical complexity compared to external expansion mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If manual expansion is used, then the structure remains simple, but it reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical expansion system is replaced with an automated motor-driven system. Motors are integrated into the frame to move the first and second surfaces along predetermined horizontal paths, eliminating the need for manual lifting or complex mechanical linkages while maintaining operational simplicity for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The desk surfaces automatically return to their stowed positions using gravity or spring mechanisms after being expanded. The motor only needs to provide power for the expansion motion, while the contraction is assisted by the surfaces' own weight or elastic elements, reducing the overall system complexity and energy requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, tables, and method of making the apparatuses and tables are disclosed for stowing and expanding a desk device. An exemplary apparatus, in one embodiment, includes a frame, a first surface slidably received by the frame in a horizontal plane between and including a stowed position and an expanded position, and a second surface slidably received by the frame between and including a stowed position and an expanded position.