Folding Table Unlocking Layout for Foot-Actuated Pivoting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional folding tables require manual handling of overhead handles to pivot the tabletop from vertical to horizontal positions, which is cumbersome and not hygienic, especially when the tabletop is in a vertical stowed position.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a foot-actuable unlocking mechanism and a dual-operating system with separate manual and foot-operated sections on the underside of the table, allowing easier and more intuitive operation by enabling the use of the foot to pivot the tabletop from a vertical to a horizontal position, while maintaining hygiene by preventing foot contact with the manual release handle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual handle is provided on the underside of the tabletop for unlocking, then the locking mechanism can be released, but the operation becomes cumbersome when the tabletop is in vertical stowed position
Solution Approach 1:
The unlocking mechanism is segmented into two separate triggering sections: a first triggering section (15a) accessible when the tabletop is in horizontal working position, and a second triggering section (15b) accessible when the tabletop is in vertical stowed position. This segmentation allows each section to be optimally positioned for its specific operational context, eliminating the need to reach overhead handles when the table is folded away.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single-point unlocking mechanism to a distributed triggering system across different spatial dimensions. The triggering sections are positioned at different locations on the underside of the tabletop, allowing users to access the unlocking function from below the table rather than from above, thereby solving the accessibility problem in vertical stowed position.
2Device complexity
If the same triggering section is used for both horizontal and vertical positions, then the structure is simplified, but hygiene is compromised due to foot contact with manual handle
Solution Approach 1:
The triggering mechanism is divided into distinct sections (15a and 15b) that are spatially separated and contextually assigned to different table positions. The first triggering section (15a) is positioned to be accessible by hand when the table is in working position, while the second triggering section (15b) is positioned to be accessible by foot when the table is in stowed position, thereby preventing cross-contamination and maintaining hygiene.
3Device complexity
If only one triggering section is provided, then the device is simpler, but it cannot prevent accidental foot operation when table is in horizontal position
Solution Approach 1:
By providing two separately positioned triggering sections (15a and 15b) on the underside of the tabletop, the system creates spatial and functional separation. The first triggering section (15a) is positioned such that it is not accessible when the tabletop is in vertical stowed position, while the second triggering section (15b) is positioned to be accessible only in that position. This segmentation prevents accidental foot operation of the wrong trigger and ensures reliable context-appropriate activation.
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
The solution simplifies the unlocking process, making it easier and more natural to pivot the tabletop, while ensuring the manual release handle remains clean and avoiding accidental foot operation when the table is in its horizontal position.
Implementation Method 1
which is moved against the force of a spring device, in particular automatically reset in the starting position after actuation
Data Source
Figure 1~1b
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
The table has a locking mechanism for locking a table top (5) in a work or use position and storage position. A disengagement unit (15) is located under the table top, and comprises a hand-actuatable disengagement portion (15a). A foot-actuatable disengagement portion (15b) or a shoe actuatable disengagement portion is provided on underside of the table on a table half that is lower than a pivot axis of the table and/or is lower than the hand-actuatable disengagement portion when the table top is pivoted in the storage position.