Folding Table Seating Strut Assembly for Low-Effort Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Folding table and seating systems face challenges with existing folding-assist systems, such as high weight, limited force ratio, and leakage issues with torsion bars and pneumatic cylinders, which increase effort and require special mounting, and do not provide adjustable torque throughout the folding motion.
Innovation Solution
A folding framework using mechanical struts with cap elements for low friction rotational support and a telescoping mechanical strut assembly that varies spring rate along the folding motion to offset forces, eliminating the need for torsion bars and providing a higher force ratio for optimized folding assist.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If torsion bars are used for folding assist, then some weight and gravity are counteracted to lessen effort required, but the system becomes expensive, relatively heavy, and adds weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the folding assist function from traditional torsion bars and relocates it to a separate mechanical strut assembly. This allows the main framework to remain lightweight while the assist mechanism is provided by an independent component that can be optimized separately for weight and performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mechanical strut assembly as an intermediary component between the framework and the folding motion. This mediator provides the necessary assist force through its own internal mechanism (telescoping sections with springs or dampers) without requiring heavy torsion bars to be integrated into the framework itself.
2Ease of operation
If pneumatic cylinders (gas springs) are used for folding assist, then a degree of folding assist is provided, but the force ratio is limited (about 1.5) which limits the ability to vary force exerted during folding and unfolding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a mechanical strut assembly with telescoping sections that can dynamically adjust its length and force output during the folding motion. The strut can provide varying levels of assist force at different stages of folding/unfolding, adapting to the changing mechanical advantages and weight distribution of the table throughout its range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the folding assist mechanism by using a mechanical strut with adjustable spring rates or damping characteristics. This allows the force ratio to be significantly higher than gas springs (potentially 5:1 or greater) and enables tuning of the assist force to match the specific requirements of the table's folding motion at different positions.
3Ease of operation
If gas springs are initially configured to provide greater force than required, then folding assist is adequate, but force is lost over time due to gas leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the sealed, long-duration gas spring with a mechanical strut assembly that uses mechanical elements (springs, dampers, telescoping sections) instead of compressed gas. These mechanical components do not suffer from leakage issues and can maintain consistent force output over the lifetime of the product, eliminating the need to over-initialize the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the pneumatic system (gas spring) with a purely mechanical system (mechanical strut with springs and dampers). This replacement eliminates the fundamental limitation of gas leakage while providing equivalent or superior folding assist functionality through mechanical means that are more reliable and maintainable.
4Ease of operation
If torsion bars are used, then folding assist is provided, but special mounting is required to ensure torque is applied correctly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the mechanical strut assembly to serve multiple functions: it provides folding assist, acts as a structural link between framework components, and incorporates the mounting interface directly into its design. This universal component can be mounted using standard attachment methods (bolts, brackets, or quick-connect mechanisms) without requiring specialized torque application procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical strut assembly is designed to be self-aligning and self-mounting to the framework. The telescoping mechanism and mounting interfaces are configured so that the strut automatically positions itself correctly during installation, eliminating the need for precise alignment or special mounting procedures required by torsion bars.
5Weight of moving object
If a lightweight framework is used, then ease of movement is improved, but the framework may lack the strength to support table tops and seating during folding motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the mechanical strut assembly to provide counterbalancing force that offsets the weight of the table tops and seating during folding motion. This allows the framework itself to be designed with minimal weight while the strut assembly provides the necessary strength and support during the dynamic folding process, effectively compensating for the reduced framework strength.
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 reduces the effort required to fold and unfold the table and seating arrangement, maintains force consistency over time, and simplifies assembly, offering improved control and safety with a lightweight and adjustable folding assist system.
Implementation Method 1
a telescoping mechanical strut assembly that varies spring rate along the folding motion to offset forces
Implementation Method 2
cap elements providing low friction rotational support at frame rotational axes
Data Source
AI summary
A folding table and seating arrangement includes a pair of table tops, each of the table tops having a table top frame. A folding framework supports the table tops and facilitates folding the table tops between a first position and a second position, the folding framework defining a rotational axis with each of the table tops. A folding assist system offset forces during folding and includes a mechanical strut assembly attached to the folding framework and providing a biasing force. Cap elements have a receiving portion inserting into an orifice in the table top frame and aligned with the rotational axis to receive a tubular cross. The cap elements provide low friction and have tabs that clip into corresponding slots in the table top frame.