Folding table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional folding tables are too bulky for narrow spaces and require manual locking/unlocking mechanisms, limiting their convenience for outdoor use and storage.
Innovation Solution
A detachable table frame and automatic gravity lock mechanism that allows for multi-dimensional volume reduction and automatic locking/unlocking, facilitating easy storage and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the traditional folding table is folded, then the thickness in a single direction is reduced, but the overall volume is still too large to place into a narrow space
Solution Approach 1:
The table frame is divided into multiple independent components including table legs, crossbars, and support bars that can be separated and folded independently. This segmentation allows each component to be compacted separately, achieving multi-dimensional volume reduction that enables storage in narrow spaces
Solution Approach 2:
The folding mechanism allows components to be nested within each other during the folding process. The table legs and support bars are designed to interlock and nest together, maximizing space utilization and achieving compact storage volume
2Ease of operation
If the traditional folding table uses manual locking mechanism, then the structure is simple, but additional operations are required to lock or unlock which reduces operational convenience and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism automatically locks and unlocks based on the folding state of the table. When the table is folded or unfolded, the gravity lock components automatically engage or disengage without requiring manual intervention, making the system self-serving and improving operational convenience
Solution Approach 2:
The manual locking operation is replaced by a gravity-based automatic locking mechanism. The gravity lock uses gravitational force to trigger automatic locking/unlocking based on the table's orientation and folding state, eliminating the need for manual locking operations
3Volume of moving object
If the table frame is folded into small volume, then storage space is reduced, but the structural stability during folding and storage must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The gravity lock mechanism is pre-positioned and automatically activates during the folding process. The locking components are designed to engage at specific folding stages, ensuring structural stability is established before the folding is complete, preventing accidental collapse during storage or transport
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 folding table can be compactly stored in narrow spaces and offers enhanced operational convenience and safety through automatic locking/unlocking.
Implementation Method 1
at least one gravity lock, disposed at the folding portion of the first crossbar and/or the folding portion of the second crossbar
Data Source
AI summary
A folding table includes a table frame, having two crossbars and a plurality of stands, the two crossbars each have a folding portion, the plurality of stands are respectively pivoted to two ends of the two crossbars; a table plate, detachably mounted on the two crossbars; and at least one gravity lock, disposed at the folding portion, the gravity lock has a body provided with two longitudinal long grooves, two side sheets are respectively located at two sides of the body, one end of the two side sheets is combined with the crossbar, and the other end is pivoted to the body, the two side sheets each have a hook portion to shade a partial opening of a slot.