Folding table with power outlet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Folding, stackable tables lack integrated electrical power solutions, leading to inconvenience and safety hazards due to the need for external power sources and exposed cords, while also compromising the continuity of the working surface.
Innovation Solution
A folding table design that incorporates a segmented perimeter rail with an integrated electrical power outlet, allowing for a continuous working surface and safe, internal power distribution, with the outlet recessed during storage to prevent damage and snagging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a folding table is designed with a continuous working surface, then the aesthetic appearance and surface integrity are improved, but integrating power outlets compromises the continuity of the working surface
Solution Approach 1:
The perimeter rail is segmented into separate rail segments with a rail gap between them, allowing the power outlet to be integrated into the gap without compromising the overall continuity of the working surface. The faceplate bridges the gap visually while providing access to the outlet.
Solution Approach 2:
A faceplate is introduced as an intermediary element that spans the rail gap and houses the power outlet. This faceplate maintains the visual continuity of the perimeter rail while providing controlled access to the power outlet through a recessed opening.
2Ease of operation
If the power outlet is exposed and accessible, then ease of use is improved, but the outlet is vulnerable to damage and snagging during transport and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The power outlet is nested within a recessed opening in the faceplate, which is itself integrated into the perimeter rail structure. This nested arrangement protects the outlet from external damage while maintaining accessibility during table use.
Solution Approach 2:
The leg assemblies are pivotal between a closed storage position against the tabletop and an open elevated position, allowing the table to transition between compact protected state during transport and accessible state during use. The power outlet remains protected in the closed position while accessible when opened.
3Adaptability or versatility
If external power sources and exposed cords are used, then power availability is improved, but safety hazards and messy appearance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power outlet is merged with the perimeter rail structure of the folding table, creating an integrated power solution. This eliminates the need for external power sources and exposed cords, providing power availability while removing safety hazards and improving appearance.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding table has an integrated electrical power outlet. The table has a tabletop with a horizontal orientation supported in an elevated position by at least a pair of legs or leg assemblies pivotally coupled at opposite sides of the tabletop and pivotal between a closed storage position against the tabletop and an open elevated position extending transverse to the tabletop. The tabletop has a bottom framework with a perimeter rail extending along at least a portion of a perimeter the tabletop and defining at least a portion of the perimeter of the tabletop. The perimeter rail is segmented and defines a rail gap in the perimeter rail, with the perimeter rail having opposing ends at the rail gap. The electrical power outlet is spliced into the perimeter rail at the rail gap and spans the rail gap in the perimeter rail.