Folding Table Frame Design for Enhanced Load-Bearing and Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable folding tables lack sufficient load-bearing capacity and stability, especially when used with heavier objects, due to inadequate design in their frames and attachment mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A portable folding table design featuring a frame with two front legs and two rear legs, connected by front and rear arms, utilizing longitudinal rods and coupling elements for enhanced stability, and a detachable table surface that can be securely fastened using recesses and elastic connecting cords for improved load distribution and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a textile table top is stretched on a collapsible frame, then the table is lightweight and portable, but the load-bearing capacity and stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The table top is divided into multiple individual panels rather than a single textile surface. Each panel is supported independently by the frame structure, distributing the load across multiple points and increasing overall load-bearing capacity while maintaining portability
Solution Approach 2:
The table combines lightweight materials (aluminum frame, panel materials) with a structural design that compensates for material limitations. The composite structure of frame + panels + connectors creates a system with higher strength-to-weight ratio than single-material solutions
2Strength
If wooden panels are held at angles with individually fastened legs, then the table provides a rigid tabletop, but the stability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple frame components (legs, arms, connecting elements) are merged into an integrated structure where all parts work together to provide stability. The connecting elements link all four legs and arms into a unified load-bearing structure, preventing individual component failure from compromising overall stability
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure extends in multiple dimensions with longitudinal rods running the length of the table and cross-connecting elements providing lateral stability. This three-dimensional framework distributes forces across multiple planes, enhancing stability beyond simple planar support
3Ease of operation
If the table surface is detachably fastened to the frame, then the table is easy to assemble and disassemble, but the connection strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable connection system is divided into multiple discrete connection points distributed across the table structure. Each connector provides localized strength while the distribution across multiple points maintains overall connection strength even with individual detachable joints
Solution Approach 2:
Connecting elements serve as intermediary components between the frame and table top, providing standardized attachment points. These intermediaries simplify assembly while maintaining structural integrity through engineered connection interfaces
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4~6d
AI summary
The invention relates to a portable table (1) which has a table surface (11) and a frame (1a). The frame (1a) has two front legs (2, 3), two rear legs (4, 5), two front arms (6, 7), and two rear arms (8, 9). The front arms and the front legs are secured to a first front connection element (12), and the rear arms and the rear legs are secured to a second rear connection element (13). The first front connection element is connected to the second rear connection element via at least one first connection rod (14). Coupling elements (50, 51, 52, 53) are arranged on the upper ends of the arms, said coupling elements connecting the arms to a respective first or second longitudinal rod (54, 55). The table surface according to the invention has at least one device (65a, 65b, 66a, 66b) by means of which the table surface (11) can be releasably secured to the frame (1a).