Folding Table Multi-Stage Latching and Integrated Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current folding tables for vehicle seats lack enhanced comfort features, particularly in terms of adjustable inclination and secure object storage, especially when in inclined positions.
Innovation Solution
The folding table features a multi-stage latching mechanism with rotatable folding levers for adjustable angular positioning, integrated comfort components such as a cup holder with guide elements, and a cable fastening device, ensuring secure and comfortable use in various positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a folding table is designed with only basic locking mechanism, then the structure remains simple, but comfort and usability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the folding table structure: the base plate integrates both the locking mechanism and comfort components (cup holder, cable fastening device, storage recesses). This merging allows the structure to provide enhanced comfort and usability without proportionally increasing overall complexity, as the added features are integrated into existing structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding table is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating various comfort components into the base plate: object storage recesses, cup holder with guide elements, cable fastening devices, and different folding positions. This universal design allows a single structure to serve multiple purposes (storage, beverage holding, cable management, various viewing angles) thereby improving comfort without requiring separate additional components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the folding table has fixed inclination, then the structure is simple, but adaptability to different user needs and lighting conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The folding table implements dynamic adjustability through its multi-stage locking mechanism that enables the base plate to be positioned at multiple discrete inclination angles. The locking mechanism includes locking elements that can engage with stopping elements at different positions, allowing the table to transition between fixed angular positions (e.g., folded and unfolded states with specific inclinations). This dynamic capability provides adaptability to different user needs and lighting conditions while maintaining structural stability at each position.
3Ease of operation
If comfort components are added to the folding table, then usability is improved, but the risk of objects slipping or falling increases in inclined positions
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate features locally optimized surfaces with different qualities: recesses with increased depth and rougher surface finish for storing flat objects, and raised edges forming borders to contain objects. These local quality variations create specific zones with enhanced friction and physical containment, preventing objects from slipping or falling during folding operations while maintaining overall usability of the table surface.
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 provides a folding table with enhanced comfort and usability by allowing easy adjustment of inclination, secure object storage, and convenient cable management, ensuring stability and ease of use in different folding positions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring is arranged on the side of the rocker-like elements facing away from the second support end of the support, so that the second support end of the support contacts the respective rocker-like element when the folding table moves from the use position to the non-use position and vice versa and is at least one spring force causes a seesaw up around the respective seesaw pivot axis
Implementation Method 2
the folding mechanism comprising a first folding lever (12H-1) with a first lever pivot axis (H1) for angular adjustment of the folding table
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
The invention relates to a folding table (12) having a base plate (12A) which is supportable with respect to a supporting structure (14B) by means of at least one support (16) in different folding positions (I, II). According to the invention, it is provided that at least one comfort component (12H-1, 12H-2) for multi-stage latching of the base plate (12A) in different folding positions (I, II) and/or at least one comfort component (40, 51, 52, 60) for placing or storing objects is associated with the base plate (12A).