Table structure that allows folding tables to be expanded and stably combined
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional folding table structures face challenges in easy assembly and disassembly, require different materials and processes, necessitate greater force for expansion and folding, and suffer from instability due to convex ribs on the table top plate.
Innovation Solution
A table structure with first and second support members made of similar shapes, using U-shaped bolts and spring drums for easy assembly and disassembly, and elastic C-shaped main bodies for three-point stabilization, allowing for stable expansion and folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional folding table structures use different materials and processes for support members, then structural strength is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by making both the first and second support members identical in structure, material, and function. Each support member consists of a C-shaped main body with a spring drum at one end, eliminating the need for different materials and processes while maintaining structural integrity through symmetric design
Solution Approach 2:
The support members are designed with universality where the first and second support members can interchangeably fit into either the first or second frames. The U-shaped bolts can be inserted into either spring drum, and the elastic C-shaped main bodies can lean against either retaining groove, creating a universal system that simplifies manufacturing while maintaining strength
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional folding table structures use complex assembly mechanisms, then stability is improved, but assembly and disassembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the support mechanism into distinct modular components: the elastic C-shaped main body, the spring drum, the U-shaped bolt, and the retaining groove. These segmented components can be easily assembled and disassembled through simple insertion and leaning actions, yet when combined they provide stable support through the elastic engagement of the C-shaped body against the retaining groove
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic C-shaped main body provides self-service by automatically maintaining stable engagement through its elastic properties. The C-shaped body naturally leans against the retaining groove to provide support, and the spring drum automatically engages with the U-shaped bolt, eliminating the need for complex fastening mechanisms while ensuring stable assembly
3Strength
If conventional folding table structures require greater force for expansion, then structural rigidity is improved, but operational effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing the elastic properties of the C-shaped main body and the spring drum mechanism. The elastic C-shaped body can flex during expansion and then snap into engagement with the retaining groove, reducing the force needed for expansion while maintaining structural rigidity once expanded. The spring drum's rotational freedom allows smooth expansion without requiring excessive force
4Strength
If conventional folding table structures use convex ribs on table top plate, then structural support is improved, but combination stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the taking out principle by removing the problematic convex ribs from the table top plate design. Instead of relying on convex ribs for structural support, the patent extracts this function and replaces it with the frame and support member system that provides both structural support and combination stability through the elastic C-shaped main bodies leaning against the retaining grooves
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
Simplifies manufacturing and reduces costs, facilitates easy assembly and disassembly, and provides stable expansion without excessive force, ensuring a stable structure when expanded or folded.
Implementation Method 1
an upper end of the first elastic C-shaped main body is connected to a first U-shaped bolt, and a lower end of the first elastic C-shaped main body is connected to a first spring drum
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a foldable table capable of being expanded and stably folded. The foldable table includes a table top plate; two matching frames, each including a first frame and a second frame; and two foldable table legs, each including a first support member and a second support member. Each of the first support member and the second support member includes a U-shaped bolt and a spring drum for combining with the two support members. The support member design including the U-shaped bolt and the spring drum allow the foldable table to be expanded without using excessive force. The table top plate includes a first plate body and a second plate body, each of which includes a joint portion, which allows the table to be stably folded.