Folding table device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Folding table devices in trains occupy too much space, hinder passenger access, and pose a safety risk due to their design, which limits their functionality to mere storage and lacks a standing aid during jerky movements.
Innovation Solution
A folding table device with vertically lockable wings and a person support element made of elastic material, allowing for improved accessibility and serving as both a storage area and a standing aid, featuring a folding mechanism with a guide rail and pins for controlled movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the folding table device is designed with a conventional hinge mechanism, then the folding table wings can be folded horizontally or pushed into a drawer, but the device takes up too much space and hinders passenger access to seats
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the folding direction from horizontal (conventional) to vertical (upward). The folding table wings are designed to fold vertically onto the cross member instead of horizontally onto each other or into a drawer. This vertical folding dimension frees up the horizontal space in front of seats, improving passenger access while maintaining the storage function when folded down.
2Quantity of substance
If the folding table device is positioned to provide storage functionality, then it serves as a storage area for passenger objects, but it hinders passenger movement and creates safety risks during sudden train movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a second function to the folding table device: the folded-up folding table wings serve as handholds for passengers. This transforms the structure from a single-function storage device into a multi-functional element that provides both storage (when folded down) and safety support (when folded up), eliminating the need to choose between storage capacity and passenger safety.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the folding table wings are made rigid for stable storage, then they provide reliable storage surfaces, but they cannot provide comfortable support for passengers during sudden movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different material properties to different parts of the folding table wings. The main structure (cross member and wing framework) remains rigid to provide stable storage surfaces when folded down. However, the passenger contact surfaces are covered with soft, elastic material to provide comfortable and safe contact during sudden train movements, preventing injuries while maintaining structural integrity.
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
Enhances passenger access and safety by freeing up space and providing a support during train movements, reducing injury risks and improving passenger changeover times.
Implementation Method 1
the person support element is made of an elastic material, preferably a plastic or padding
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a folding table device (1) comprising a crossbar (2) for attaching at least one first folding table leaf (3) that can be moved between a folded-up position and a folded-down position by means of a folding mechanism. The aim of the invention is to provide a folding table device (1) that allows easy accessibility to the seating provided on the folding table device (1) and at the same time provides a standing aid for people. To this end, the first folding table leaf (3) can be vertically locked in a folded-up position and comprises a person-supporting element (7) on a first end (5) facing away from the crossbar (2).