Foldable Table Assembly with Elastic Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable table assemblies for vehicle rear seats are inconvenient for passengers seated on both sides, as they are fixed, obstructing access to operation panel switches and lacking shock absorption, which can lead to injury during collisions.
Innovation Solution
A foldable table assembly with rotatable arms and adjustable position and direction, supported by a base bracket and elastic members, allowing the table to pop up and fold securely within the console housing, ensuring passengers on either side can use it without obstruction and providing shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed table is installed on the rear seat console, then the table structure is simple and stable, but it obstructs access to operation panel switches and cannot be conveniently used by passengers on both sides
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed table into a movable and adjustable table. The table is mounted on rotatable arms that allow it to be rotated between different positions (e.g., facing left or right side passengers) and adjusted to various angles. This dynamic configuration enables passengers on either side of the rear seat to conveniently access and use the table without obstruction, while also allowing the table to clear the operation panel switches when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the table structure into multiple independent components: a base bracket, first rotary arm, second rotary arm, bearing member, and sliding members. These segmented components work together to provide rotational and sliding adjustments, enabling the table to be positioned optimally for passengers on both sides while maintaining structural stability through the modular design.
2Reliability
If a fixed table is installed on the rear seat console, then the device complexity is low, but it lacks shock absorption capability and can cause injury during collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating shock-absorbing elements into the table structure. The elastic member (such as a spring or damper) is integrated into the mounting mechanism between the table and the console. In the event of a collision, this elastic member compresses or deforms to absorb the impact energy, preventing the rigid table from directly transmitting force to the passenger and causing injury.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by using materials or structural elements that change their mechanical properties in response to impact forces. The elastic member changes its stiffness or damping characteristics under collision conditions, transitioning from a rigid support state to a shock-absorbing state, thereby providing passive safety without requiring active control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable table with rotatable arms is installed, then the table can be conveniently used by passengers on both sides, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the rotatable arm mechanism to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The same first and second rotary arms that enable position adjustment also provide structural support for the table. The bearing member and sliding members, while enabling adjustment, also maintain table stability during use. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms and support structures, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
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
Enables convenient use of the table by passengers on both sides of the rear seat without obstructing operation panel switches and absorbs impact during collisions, enhancing passenger safety and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
to be elastically rotated upwards about the end thereof by a first elastic member
Implementation Method 2
having table plates, usage position and direction of which are adjustable by a bearing member
Implementation Method 3
sliding members when the table is popped up to a predetermined height
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable table assembly for vehicles includes a base bracket, a first rotary arm provided with one end connected with the base bracket and elastically rotatable upwards about the end by a first elastic member, a second rotary arm provided with one end hinged to the base bracket and to be rotated in accordance with rotation of the first rotary arm, and a table connected with the other ends of the first and second rotary arms. The table includes base plates hinged to the other ends of the first and second rotary arms, an intermediate support plate connected with the base plate to be rotatable when a bearing member is interposed between the intermediate support plate and the base plate, and table plates connected with the intermediate support plate to be slidably movable when sliding members are interposed between the table plates and the intermediate support plate.