Folding Table Frame Connectors That Eliminate Welding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing process of folding tables is complex and expensive due to the need for welding of elongate sections, which complicates assembly and increases costs, while also requiring additional protection for corners to prevent damage during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A frame with a perimeter portion comprising elongate sections connected by a connecting means that includes a body with first and second connecting members and mounting means, allowing for assembly without welding and providing a mounting point for the folding leg mechanism, using nylon connecting members and hollow sections for interference fit and impact resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding is used to join elongate sections, then the frame structure is strong and stable, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting means combines multiple functions into a single component: it joins elongate sections together, provides corner protection, and serves as a mounting point for the folding leg mechanism. This integration eliminates the need for separate welding operations and protective caps, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting means acts as an intermediary component that replaces direct welding between elongate sections. It provides a standardized interface for joining sections while absorbing the complexity of the connection process, allowing for easier assembly and disassembly without compromising frame strength.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If additional protection caps are added to corners, then the table is protected from damage during transportation, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The protective function is merged into the connecting means itself. The connecting means incorporates impact-absorbing features and protective geometry directly into its structure, eliminating the need for separate protective caps while maintaining corner protection during transportation and handling.
3Ease of repair
If multiple separate components are used for connecting sections and mounting legs, then the assembly is flexible and repairable, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting means is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: joining elongate sections, protecting corners, and mounting the folding leg mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of different component types needed, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining assembly flexibility and repairability.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~7
AI summary
A table (1) comprises a frame (3), a table top surface (2) and a folding leg mechanism (4). The frame includes a perimeter portion (6) that defines the outside edges of the table, the perimeter portion comprising a plurality of elongate sections (70, 71) joined together by at least one connecting means (50). The connecting means (50) includes a first connecting member (51) adapted to engage a complementary part on one of the elongate sections and a second connecting member (52) adapted to engage a complementary part on one of the other elongate sections. The connecting means (50) also includes a mounting means (53, 54) to connect at least part of the folding leg mechanism (4) to the frame (3).