Foldable Bench Frame with Gravity-Actuated Pivot Lever Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding frames for benches and tables require a large storage space, are complex to set up and lock, and often jam due to dirt or rust, leading to insecure locking and time-consuming construction and dismantling.
Innovation Solution
A folding frame design with a cantilevered pivoting lever locking mechanism that uses gravity for secure locking, a compact guide element, and a flexible guide rail for easy operation, reducing the number of components and production costs, while ensuring secure and effortless switching between storage and use positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring-loaded bolt with drawbars is used for locking, then the folding frame can be locked in the erected position, but the construction and dismantling become time-consuming and the bolts tend to jam
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically engages when the folding frame is erected, using the frame's own weight and geometry to lock without manual intervention. The blocking element passesively locks the support strut in the erected position through gravitational force, eliminating the need for manual operation of bolts or drawbars.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the complex spring-loaded bolt mechanism and manual drawbars entirely, replacing them with a passive blocking element that uses the frame's own structure for locking. This extraction of unnecessary components simplifies the setup process and eliminates jamming issues.
2Reliability
If traditional folding frame design is used, then locking function is provided, but the storage space required is approximately 50% larger
Solution Approach 1:
The support strut is designed to fold along a diagonal path that optimizes the collapsed footprint. By changing the folding dimension and angle, the frame achieves a more compact storage configuration while maintaining the locking function in the erected position through the blocking element.
3Device complexity
If the blocking element is fixed rather than pivotable, then the structure is simpler, but tilting or jamming cannot be avoided
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is designed as a pivotable lever rather than a fixed component. This dynamic design allows the blocking element to automatically adjust to the support strut's position and maintain reliable locking without tilting or jamming. The pivotable design adapts to minor misalignments and ensures consistent engagement.
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 design achieves secure locking without manual intervention, prevents jamming, and allows for compact storage, reducing production costs and simplifying the setup and locking processes.
Implementation Method 1
a locking element which, according to the invention, is designed as a cantilevered pivoting lever which locks at least one leg actuated by gravity
Data Source
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AI summary
For the simple assembly with secure locking and easy unlocking of a folding frame for benches or tables, with pivot bearings (1b) for legs (2) on the underside of the bench or table and with support struts (3) articulated to the legs (2), which in the erection position preferably extend diagonally to the underside of the bench or table, wherein in the stacking position the legs (2) extend approximately parallel to the underside of the bench or table and are locked in the erection position with a locking element (5), it is proposed that the locking element (5) be designed as a pivot lever mounted on one side, which locks at least one leg (2) by gravity actuation.