Folding work surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tables used in job and construction sites are typically rigid, expensive, and difficult to transport, store, and dispose of due to their inflexible and monolithic structures.
Innovation Solution
A folding table design that is configurable between an assembled and bundled configuration, featuring a main body with collapsible sidewalls, shelves, and a lid, which allows for easy transportation, storage, and disposal by reducing space requirements through securement features and foldable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid, inflexible monolithic structure is used for the table, then the table provides structural stability and durability, but it becomes expensive and difficult to transport, store, and dispose of
Solution Approach 1:
The table is divided into multiple segments including a body portion, lid, and one or more shelves that can be separated from each other. The sidewalls are divided into multiple sections that can fold relative to each other. This segmentation allows the table to be disassembled for easy transport and storage while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The table incorporates movable and foldable components rather than fixed rigid structures. The sidewalls can fold between extended and retracted positions, the lid can be removed and folded, and shelves can be repositioned. This dynamic design enables the table to adapt between a stable working configuration and a compact storage configuration.
2Ease of operation
If a folding table design with collapsible components is used, then the table becomes easy to transport and store, but the structural stability and durability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The folding table design allows components to nest within each other when collapsed. The lid folds over the body portion, shelves can be positioned within the collapsed structure, and sidewalls fold inward. This nesting arrangement maintains a compact form factor while keeping all structural components integrated and stable when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple structural components are combined into an integrated folding table system where the body portion, lid, shelves, and sidewalls work together as a unified structure. The securement features and interlocking mechanisms ensure that when assembled, the combined structure provides stability comparable to rigid tables.
3Reliability
If traditional rigid tables are used, then the table provides a stable work surface, but it occupies significant space during storage and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The table transforms from a fixed rigid structure to a dynamic folding structure that can change volume. When in use, the sidewalls extend to provide a stable work surface. When not in use, the sidewalls fold inward and the lid folds over, reducing the occupied volume to a fraction of the extended size.
4Reliability
If expensive rigid table structures are used, then the table provides durability, but the cost of purchase, transport, and disposal increases
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the table into separate modular components (body, lid, shelves) allows for more efficient manufacturing and material usage. Each component can be optimized independently and assembled using simple securement features, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost compared to a single-piece rigid table of equivalent durability.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding table or work surface configurable between an assembled configuration and a bundled configuration. The folding table generally includes a body with one or more collapsible sidewalls, one or more shelves, and a lid.