Folding Table with Releasable Height Adjustment for Office Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding tables are not suitable for office use due to lack of adjustable height and limited versatility, particularly requiring intermediate stops for height adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A folding table design with first and second height adjustment means that connect via female-male shaped and rotatable axle extensions, allowing continuous height adjustment without intermediate stops, and enabling easy transition between folded and unfolded positions without interfering with table legs or accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the table legs are made movable between folded and unfolded positions for portability, then the folding table becomes suitable for storage and transport, but the height adjustment mechanisms become exposed and may interfere with the folding operation
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustment mechanisms are extracted from the table legs and relocated to the tabletop. This separation allows the table legs to fold independently without interference from the height adjustment mechanisms, while the mechanisms remain accessible on the tabletop for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate connection elements (brackets, arms, linkages) that mediate between the tabletop height adjustment mechanisms and the table leg positioning. These intermediaries transmit motion and force while allowing independent operation of height adjustment and folding functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional height adjustment mechanisms are used, then intermediate stops are provided for height positioning, but continuous height adjustment without intermediate stops is required for office use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical intermediate stop mechanisms with a continuous adjustment system using threaded rods, nuts, and locking mechanisms. This substitution allows smooth continuous height adjustment without discrete intermediate stops, providing infinite positioning possibilities within the adjustment range.
3Ease of operation
If the table legs extend perpendicular from the tabletop in unfolded position, then sufficient legroom is provided comparable to regular office desks, but the height adjustment mechanisms may interfere with the folding operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the height adjustment function from the leg folding function by placing adjustment mechanisms on the tabletop rather than integrated into the legs. This segmentation allows the legs to extend perpendicular for optimal legroom while the separate tabletop-mounted mechanisms avoid interference during folding operations.
Data Source
Figure 1~5
AI summary
Folding table (1) comprising a tabletop (2) and table legs (3, 4) which are movable between a folded down position and an unfolded position in which the table is ready to use and wherein the tabletop (2) has an adjustable height position. In the unfolded position the table legs extend essentially perpendicular from the tabletop. The tabletop is provided with first height adjustment means (5) which are motor or hands driven, and the table legs are provided with second height adjustment means. The first height adjustment means that are provided on the tabletop are releasably connectable with the second height adjustment means that are provided in the table legs.