Folding table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional folding tables with wheels or hinged frames either compromise visual appearance, storage efficiency, or both, due to exposed wheels or uneven surfaces when folded, and existing solutions do not effectively address the need for a compact, aesthetically pleasing, and easy-to-handle option for large venues.
Innovation Solution
A folding table design featuring legs that fold underneath the table top, with roller devices integrated into the ends, concealed when unfolded and exposed when folded, allowing for tilting and rolling, and utilizing a scissor link hinge mechanism to position the rollers for efficient storage and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wheels are provided on the underside of the table top for rolling, then the table can be moved easily, but the wheels are exposed during use compromising visual appearance and increase the depth of the folded table
Solution Approach 1:
The roller device is extracted from the traditional wheel position and integrated into the leg structure. The roller is housed within a recess in the leg, exposing it only when the leg is folded underneath the table top, while keeping it concealed when the leg is in the supporting position.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller device is made dynamic by integrating it with the movable leg structure. The roller transitions between concealed and exposed states as the leg folds and unfolds, automatically adapting its visibility and functionality to the table's operational state.
2Volume of moving object
If the table top is split and hinged to fold down around the frame, then the tables can be stored next to each other in smaller space, but the split line causes unevenness in the top surface and requires tablecloth coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The table is segmented into a table top and movable legs rather than a split table top. This segmentation allows the legs to fold underneath while maintaining the integrity and flatness of the table top surface, eliminating the need for tablecloth coverage.
3Volume of moving object
If legs are hinged to fold underneath the table top, then the folded tables can be stacked for storage, but the tables cannot be easily moved to storage
Solution Approach 1:
The rolling function is merged with the leg structure rather than being a separate component. The roller device is integrated into the leg, combining the support function of the leg with the rolling function, enabling easy movement while maintaining compact stacking capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding table (10), including a table top (12) having a top surface (18) and a bottom surface; two opposing legs (20) at or adjacent respective opposing ends (14) of the table top; the legs being movable between an unfolded position for supporting the table top above a floor surface, and a folded position whereby the legs lie underneath the bottom surface; at least one roller device (34) located towards an end of the table top; whereby in the unfolded position the roller is concealed behind the table top and leg, and in the folded position the roller is exposed to the end of the table top to allow rolling of the table in a tilted orientation along a floor surface.