Removable Attachment Bar for Flip-Top Table Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flip-top table mechanisms face challenges in providing rigidity comparable to non-flip tables, simplicity in manufacturing, adjustable support, minimizing pinch points, intuitive operation, customization, and accidental activation prevention, while accommodating various table designs and attachments.
Innovation Solution
A flip-top table mechanism featuring a removable attachment bar with spatially separated latches for use and folded positions, a single release mechanism for both configurations, and adjustable attachment bars to enhance rigidity and support, along with a design that meets industry standards and reduces the risk of accidental activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a flip-top table mechanism is designed to be simple to manufacture and accommodate various table designs, then the mechanism can be universally applied to multiple table styles, but the rigidity and support for the table top may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is divided into separate components: a universal base plate that attaches to the table leg, and a separate attachment bar that connects to the table top. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the base plate for ease of manufacture and the attachment bar for structural rigidity.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment bar is designed to be adjustable in length and position, allowing the mechanism to adapt to different table top sizes and configurations. This dynamic adjustability maintains rigidity across various table designs without requiring custom mechanisms for each style.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the distance between multiple flip-top mechanisms is made adjustable to support various table top lengths, then the mechanism can accommodate different table sizes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment bar is designed as a universal component with multiple attachment points and adjustable positioning capabilities. A single bar design can accommodate various table top lengths and configurations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized mechanisms for different table sizes.
3Reliability
If unique latching features are used for each table configuration to spread wear evenly, then the mechanism durability improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment bar incorporates multiple localized latching features at different positions along its length. Each section of the bar has latching capabilities optimized for specific attachment points, allowing even wear distribution across the mechanism while maintaining a relatively simple overall design that doesn't require completely unique latching systems for each configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a removable attachment bar for a flip-top table that includes multiple tracks on which objects table top supports, storage containers, and other items may be mounted. While maintaining the benefits of standard flip-top tables, attachment bar also achieves many benefits including improved table rigidity and additional locations to secure attachments to the table.