Folding Table Hook-and-Slot Locking to Prevent Top Portion Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional folding tables with two top portions tend to move relative to each other in the open position, lacking a secure locking mechanism to prevent longitudinal and transverse motion during normal use.
Innovation Solution
The folding table incorporates a pair of hooks and slots, along with male and female members, to securely lock the table top portions in place, preventing movement by engaging the hooks into slots and male members into female openings, which resist both longitudinal and transverse motions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional folding tables use two table top portions pivotably connected to a supporting frame, then the table can be folded into a compact unit for easy carrying and storage, but the two table top portions can move relative to one another in longitudinal and transverse directions during normal use
Solution Approach 1:
The table top is divided into two separate portions that can be independently positioned. Each portion is connected to the supporting frame through arms and legs, allowing the table to be segmented for folding while maintaining stability when assembled. The segmentation enables compact storage while the connection mechanisms ensure stability during use.
Solution Approach 2:
Hooks are provided on the arms and corresponding slots are provided on the legs. These hooks can be preliminarily positioned to engage with the slots, preventing relative movement between table top portions before actual use begins. This preliminary locking action ensures stability is established prior to bearing loads.
2Weight of moving object
If the table top portions are made lightweight and portable, then the table can be easily carried and stored, but the connection mechanisms between table top portions and legs may be insufficient to prevent movement
Solution Approach 1:
Hooks and slots serve as intermediary connection elements between the arms and legs. These intermediaries provide a reliable mechanical connection that prevents relative movement while allowing the main table top portions to remain lightweight. The hooks engage with the slots to create a secure connection without requiring heavy reinforcement of the primary structural components.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding table has two table top portions. A pair of spaced apart arms extends from each table top portion. Each arm is connected to a respective one of four legs. Two sets of two legs are pivotably connected so that each connected pair of legs can be completely aligned with one another or in a crisscrossed position. A handle connected to and between the upper ends of two of the legs has at least one slot which is positioned and configured to receive a hook that extends from the bottom surface of the first table top portion. When the hook is in the slot the hook prevents the first table top portion from moving away from the legs when that table top portion is lifted upward and can also prevent the first table top portion from moving in a direction parallel to the second table top portion.