Foldable Table Leg Rotation Limiting Structure to Prevent Tipping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable tables with 360° rotating legs are unstable, prone to tipping, vibrating, or collapsing when a small force is applied.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of foldable tables with limiting structures on the legs to restrict their rotation within specific ranges, ensuring stability when unfolded and ease of folding when needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If legs are allowed to rotate 360° freely, then the table has ease of operation for folding and transport, but the table loses stability and becomes prone to tipping and vibration during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the rotation parameter of the legs from 360° free rotation to limited rotation within a specific range (e.g., 0° to 90° or 0° to 180°). The limiting structure restricts the rotation angle, changing the rotational parameter from unlimited to controlled, thereby achieving both stability during use and foldability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by creating a dynamic rotation system where the legs can rotate freely within a limited range during normal use, but can be moved beyond this range when folding is required. The limiting structure allows dynamic adjustment within bounds while preventing unstable positions, balancing operational flexibility with stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If legs are restricted to limited rotation, then the table gains stability during use, but the device complexity increases due to additional limiting structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the leg structure into separate components: the leg itself, the limiting structure (such as a guide rail or stop mechanism), and the connection joint. This segmentation allows the limiting function to be implemented as a distinct, simple component rather than integrating complexity into the entire leg assembly, making the added complexity manageable and modular.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary limiting structure (such as a guide rail, slot, or stop) that mediates between the leg's rotation capability and the stability requirement. This intermediary component simply guides or restricts rotation without requiring complex mechanisms, adding minimal complexity while effectively achieving the stability goal.
3Reliability
If limiting structures are added to the legs, then leg rotation is controlled within specific ranges, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by defining specific rotation angle parameters (e.g., limiting rotation to 0°-90° or 0°-180°) that can be easily incorporated into manufacturing specifications. The limiting structure is designed with simple geometric parameters (such as the position of stops or the length of guide slots) that are straightforward to manufacture and control quality for.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive limiting structures such as plastic stops, metal pins, or molded-in features that are cheap to manufacture. These limiting components are simple in design, requiring minimal processing, and can be easily integrated into the leg assembly during manufacturing, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving reliable rotation control.
Data Source
AI summary
A table includes a tabletop, a first support assembly, first and second legs, and first and second limiting structures. The first support assembly is connected to the tabletop such that the tabletop is rotatable with respect to the first support assembly around a first axis between folded and unfolded positions. The first leg is connected to the first support assembly and rotatable around a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The first limiting structure is disposed at or integrally formed with the first leg to limit rotation of the first leg between first closed and open positions. The second leg is connected to the first support assembly and rotatable around a third axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The second limiting structure is disposed at or integrally formed with the second leg to limit rotation of the second leg between second closed and open positions.