Foldable support device and artificial tree
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support devices are bulky and inconvenient to transport due to their fixed radial structures, which can easily get damaged during handling.
Innovation Solution
A foldable support device with a first locking mechanism that allows the support leg assembly to switch between folded and unfolded states, utilizing an engaging seat and engaging pin system to facilitate easy conversion and secure locking in both positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the support device uses a fixed radial structure, then the structure is simple and stable, but the device becomes large in volume and inconvenient for storage and transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The support device employs a dynamic structure where the support leg assembly can rotate relative to the support base between a working position (extended outward) and a storage position (folded inward). This dynamic configuration allows the device to transition from a stable radial structure during operation to a compact folded state for storage, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and storage volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is divided into separable components: a support base and a support leg assembly connected by a hinged portion. This segmentation allows the support leg assembly to be independently positioned and locked, enabling the device to maintain stability when deployed while reducing to a compact form for storage by folding the leg assembly against the base.
2Strength
If the support device uses a fixed radial structure, then the structure is robust, but the device is easy to damage during transfer and carry
Solution Approach 1:
The support leg assembly is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable between extended and folded states through rotation around a hinged portion. This dynamic capability allows the device to maintain robust structural strength when deployed while becoming compact and easier to handle during transfer and carry when folded, reducing the risk of damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes its geometric parameters by rotating the support leg assembly between different angular positions. When extended, it provides maximum structural strength for supporting objects; when folded against the base, it minimizes its dimensions for safe and convenient handling, thus adapting to different operational requirements.
3Volume of moving object
If the support leg assembly is made foldable, then the storage space is saved, but the locking mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism utilizes the weight of the support leg assembly itself to engage with the locking structure. When the leg assembly is rotated to the folded position, gravity causes it to naturally settle into the locked configuration without requiring additional actuators or complex locking devices, thereby simplifying the overall mechanism while enabling foldable functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
The embodiment of the present disclosure provides a foldable support device and an artificial tree, which includes a support base, a support leg assembly and a first locking mechanism. The support base is provided with a hinged portion and a mounting portion configured to mount an object to be supported. The support leg assembly is hinged to the hinged portion. The first locking mechanism is movably disposed on the support base. The first locking mechanism includes a locking state in which the support leg assembly is locked in a folded state and an unlocked state in which the support leg assembly is unlocked from the folded state. The support device can be easily switched between the folded state and the unfolded state. Meanwhile, when the support device is in a non-use state, the storage space and the transportation space can also be saved.