Segmented Foldable Table With Synchronized Gear Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional large conference tables are difficult to move due to their size and stability, making it challenging to reconfigure spaces efficiently without risking damage or operator safety.
Innovation Solution
A table design featuring pivotable top parts and supports with a synchronized gear mechanism that allows the table to fold compactly, ensuring stable alignment and easy movement by coupling the pivoting movements of rods relative to the gear carrier, preventing misalignment and facilitating effortless storage and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the table is designed with large dimensions to provide sufficient workspace and stability, then the table top area and stability are improved, but the table becomes difficult to move and occupies excessive space when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The table top is divided into multiple segments (first table top segment, second table top segment, third table top segment) that can be pivoted independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the large table top to be folded into a compact configuration for easy movement and storage, while maintaining full workspace area when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The table employs a dynamic folding mechanism with pivotable connections between table top segments and support structures. The table transitions from a static large-area configuration to a dynamic compact folded state, enabling easy movement while maintaining stability during use
2Stability of the object's composition
If the table is designed with a stable underframe to support large table top dimensions, then the table stability is improved, but the table becomes heavier and more difficult to move
Solution Approach 1:
The underframe is segmented into multiple support elements (first support, second support, third support) that can move independently during the folding process. This segmentation reduces the overall weight compared to a single rigid frame, while maintaining stability when deployed through the coordinated arrangement of support elements
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures are designed to be dynamic rather than static, with pivotable connections that allow the supports to adjust their position during folding and unfolding. This dynamic design reduces the weight needed for stability compared to a rigid fixed frame
3Adaptability or versatility
If the table top segments are pivoted independently during folding, then the folding flexibility is improved, but misalignment and potential tipping occur during the pivoting process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pivotable connections (between table top segments and between segments and supports) with a coordinating mechanism that ensures synchronized movement. This merging of independent pivotable joints into a coordinated system maintains alignment reliability while preserving folding flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable connections are designed with geometric constraints and interdependencies that provide inherent feedback during the folding process. As one segment pivots, the geometry of the mechanism automatically guides the other segments to pivot in a coordinated manner, ensuring proper alignment without requiring active control
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional heavy tables are moved manually, then the table can be repositioned, but the process is time-consuming and poses safety risks to operators
Solution Approach 1:
The table is designed with dynamic folding capabilities that allow it to be quickly transformed from a large stable configuration to a compact movable configuration. This reduces the time and effort required for repositioning compared to moving conventional heavy tables
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented table top and support structure allow the table to be folded into a compact configuration that is much easier and faster to move than a conventional solid table, reducing both the time and physical effort required for repositioning
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4(A)~4
AI summary
The desk (1) has plate parts (2a, 2b) pivotable with respect to each other from a use position to a stowed position. The plate parts are swingably coupled with support parts (4a, 4b), which support the desk against a floor (5). The plate parts are swingably coupled with a gear drive carrier (7) around first and second axes. Bars (6a, 6b) are swingably coupled with the support parts around third and fourth axes, and with the carrier around fifth and sixth axes. The bars are pivoted relative to the carrier by using a gear drive e.g. chain drive.