Foldable frame and table having same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable tables lack mechanisms for controlled folding and unfolding, leading to accidental folding, poor stability, and uneven load distribution, which affects safety and service life.
Innovation Solution
A foldable frame with a mounting assembly, leg assemblies, and supporting assemblies that include pivoting mechanisms and sliding mechanisms to control leg rotation, couplers for load distribution, and retainers to prevent accidental unfolding, ensuring stable and safe use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If foldable tables are designed without locking mechanisms, then the structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the tables may fold accidentally and are not safe to use
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting assembly automatically locks the leg assembly in the extended position through gravitational force and mechanical engagement of the slider with the supporting member, eliminating the need for manual locking operations while ensuring safety
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer mechanism is pre-configured to engage with the leg assembly and prevent accidental folding before it can occur, providing preliminary protection against the harmful effect of unintended collapse
2Device complexity
If foldable tables lack a control mechanism for folding, then the device is simpler, but the tables are not stable and may fold accidentally
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting assembly transitions from a static structure to a dynamic control system that actively manages the folding state through gravitational force and mechanical engagement, allowing the table to adapt between folded and extended states while maintaining stability in each state
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical engagement between the slider and supporting member provides automatic feedback that confirms when the leg assembly is properly locked in the extended position, ensuring stability without requiring complex electronic control systems
3Device complexity
If existing foldable tables do not have load distribution mechanisms, then the structure is simpler, but the load distribution is uneven resulting in poor stability and shortened service life
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting assembly divides the load-bearing function into multiple components including the first supporting member, slider, and second supporting members, allowing even distribution of mechanical stress across several elements rather than concentrating it in a single point
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling of the slider with multiple second supporting members merges the load path through a distributed system, where the combined structural elements work together to bear and distribute the total load evenly, extending the service life of the table
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 solution provides stable, convenient, and long-lasting foldable tables with controlled folding and unfolding, improved safety, and even load distribution, enhancing user experience and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The slider is coupled with the first supporting member and selectively movable along the first supporting member
Implementation Method 2
The first leg assembly is coupled with distal end portions of the first bars of the first and second mounting members and rotatable with respect to the first bars
Implementation Method 3
The coupler includes a base fixedly coupled with the third mounting member and a pivoting piece connected to or formed with the base
Data Source
AI summary
A table includes a tabletop and a frame supporting the tabletop. The frame includes a mounting assembly, first and second leg assemblies coupled with the mounting assembly, and first and second supporting assemblies to control rotation of the first and second leg assemblies. The frame also includes one or more couplers disposed at a mounting member of the mounting assembly to connect the mounting assembly with the first and second supporting assemblies or to connect the mounting assembly with the tabletop.