Foldable Table Locking Mechanism for Safe Pivoting Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large conference tables are cumbersome to store and move due to their size, and existing folding mechanisms may not ensure safe and effortless conversion between use and storage states, risking unexpected movement.
Innovation Solution
A table design featuring pivotable top parts coupled with a connecting component and a locking device that snaps into place, allowing safe and easy conversion between use and storage positions, with an energy storage device for controlled pivoting, ensuring the table remains stable and secure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the table top is made large to provide storage space and accommodate many people, then the table can serve more functions and more users, but the table becomes cumbersome to move and store
Solution Approach 1:
The table top is divided into multiple panel parts that can be folded relative to each other. The base frame is also segmented into movable components. This segmentation allows the large table to be folded into a compact configuration for easy storage and relocation while maintaining full surface area when in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The table incorporates movable base frame components and hinge mechanisms that enable dynamic reconfiguration. The table can transition between a deployed state (providing large surface area) and a folded state (compact for storage), making it adaptable to different spatial requirements.
2Volume of moving object
If the table is designed to be foldable for easy storage, then the table can be stored space-efficiently, but the table may move unexpectedly and create safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically engages when the table panels are folded into the storage position, preventing unexpected movement before it can occur. This preliminary locking action ensures safety is maintained during the transition to compact storage configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically lock the table panels in both deployed and folded positions without requiring manual intervention. The mechanism self-activates based on the table's configuration state, providing reliable stability in both use and storage modes.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent unexpected movement, then the table stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically engages and disengages based on the table's configuration without requiring manual operation. This self-service capability provides reliable stability while minimizing the complexity of user interaction with the locking system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes spring-based automatic engagement rather than complex manual locking systems. This mechanical substitution provides reliable locking through simple spring-loaded components that automatically activate based on the table's position, reducing overall system complexity.
4Strength
If the table panels are made rigid to ensure stability, then the table strength is improved, but the table cannot be folded for storage
Solution Approach 1:
The table structure is segmented into rigid panel parts connected by hinge mechanisms. The panels themselves maintain rigidity for strength and stability, while the hinge connections provide the flexibility needed for folding and reconfiguration into compact storage positions.
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 quick and safe conversion of the table between use and storage states, preventing accidental folding and ensuring stability, even with large surface areas, while allowing for efficient space-saving storage and easy relocation.
Implementation Method 1
the energy storage device absorbs energy when the plate parts are pivoted from the stowage position into the usage position
Implementation Method 2
the locking device causes at least one of the plate parts to snap into place on the connecting component when the plate parts are pivoted from their stowed position into their usage position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4(A)
AI summary
The table (1) has plate portions (2a,2b) that are arranged relative to each other in storage position. The edge portions of plate portions are arranged in a plane (E1) to face each other in use position. The plate portions are locked with connection component (7) by a locking device (14) in use position. The plate portions are engaged at connection component, when plate portions are pivoted from storage position to use position. The engaging of plate portions at connection component is prevented, when plate portions are pivoted from use position to storage position.