Foldable Table Locking Structure for Safe Storage Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Large conference tables are cumbersome to move and store due to their size, and existing solutions do not ensure safe and effortless conversion between use and storage states, risking unexpected movement.

Innovation Solution

A table design featuring two pivotable top parts that lock into a single plane for use, utilizing a locking device that snaps into place when pivoted from a stowed to a use position, preventing unintended folding and allowing safe operation and space-saving storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of moving object

If the table top is made large to provide space for storing large amounts of paper and drawings, then the storage capacity is improved, but the table becomes cumbersome to move and store

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetable top areaVSAvoidease of moving and storing

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The table top is divided into two separable panel parts that can be pivoted relative to each other. This segmentation allows the large table top to be folded into a compact configuration for easy storage and transport, while still providing sufficient surface area when in use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The table top is designed with pivotable panel parts that can dynamically change between an extended configuration for use and a folded configuration for storage. This dynamic structure allows the table to adapt its size and shape based on operational needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the table is designed to be foldable for space-saving storage, then the ease of operation is improved, but the table may move unexpectedly during use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of folding and storingVSAvoidstability during use

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A locking device is provided that automatically locks the panel parts in their extended position when the table is set up for use. This preliminary locking action ensures the table remains stable and does not move unexpectedly during use, while still allowing easy folding when the locking mechanism is disengaged.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If the table is made stable with a correspondingly stable base frame, then the reliability is improved, but the table becomes more difficult to move

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability of base frameVSAvoidease of moving

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The base frame is designed to move with the panel parts when they are pivoted. This segmentation and coordination allow the stable base frame to be part of the folding mechanism, enabling the entire table to be compacted for easy movement while maintaining stability when assembled.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2772154B1Table

Publication Date: 2017.02.15 SEDUS STOLL

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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.