Folding Bistro Table Leg Assembly With Auto-Locking Top
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable bistro tables are cumbersome to operate, requiring users to manually thread screws and select specific legs for folding, and often lack features to prevent unintentional rolling, especially when castors are not seated in a raised edge or without a built-in brake.
Innovation Solution
A foldable bistro table design featuring a central leg system with a dual-function lever that locks the table top in both horizontal and vertical positions, eliminating the need for screw threading and simplifying operation, while incorporating castors with a vertical axis of rotation to prevent unintentional rolling, and a compact structure for easy storage and movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw locking mechanism is used to secure the table top in horizontal position, then the table top can be locked securely, but the operation becomes cumbersome and uncomfortable for the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual screw threading mechanism with an automatic spring-loaded locking mechanism. The spring element automatically engages with a locking surface on the table top when the leg assembly is extended, securing the table top in horizontal position without requiring manual screw operation. This substitution maintains secure locking while dramatically improving ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If four independent table legs are used, then the table can be folded, but the user must know which leg to pivot first and the construction becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges four independent table legs into a single integrated leg assembly where all legs are coaxially arranged around a central axis. The legs are connected through a unified structure with a single pivot mechanism, eliminating the need for users to select which leg to pivot first. This consolidation maintains folding capability while significantly reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The leg assembly is segmented into telescopic sections that can extend and retract independently while remaining coaxially aligned. This segmentation allows the legs to fold compactly when retracted and extend to full length when needed, maintaining folding versatility within the simplified unified structure.
3Ease of operation
If castors are mounted on the table legs, then the table can be easily moved, but the table may roll away unintentionally without brakes or raised edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a self-centering mechanism in the castor mounting where the castors are positioned to naturally align with the table's center of gravity. When the table is placed on a flat surface, the weight distribution automatically centers the castors, preventing unintentional rolling without requiring external brakes or raised edges. This self-service approach maintains mobility while ensuring stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The table comprises a central leg system (1) at the top of table top (2), whose lower end is provided with four projecting legs (1a,1b), in which two legs form a fixed base pair, while the other two legs are horizontally pivotable. The table top can be folded about horizontal pivot axis. The leg system comprises an outer pipe arranged inside an inner pipe (10) connected to fixed base pair, while the other two legs which are connected to the outer pipe and are associated with the outer pipe are pivotable about the vertical axis relative to other pair of legs.