Folding Work Bench Frame With Gravity-Release Latching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable work benches with integral clamping tables are difficult to fold due to weight and awkward movement requirements, often trapping foreign objects between hinged frame components, making the folding process cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A folding mechanism where the frame is held in the 'in-use' position by latched members that release under gravity, allowing the work bench to fold continuously into a compact closed position, with a latchable bar and movable catches that simplify the folding and unfolding process, supported by bracket struts and legs that provide stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the work bench uses a traditional multi-stage folding mechanism with catches, then the frame can be folded between open and closed positions, but the folding operation becomes difficult and awkward due to the weight of the work bench and the movements required
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism is divided into distinct segments: a latchable bar that can be latched at multiple positions (open, intermediate, closed) and movable catches that engage with the bar. This segmentation allows the heavy work bench to be controlled in discrete steps, making the folding operation manageable despite the weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable catches are positioned and configured in advance to automatically engage with the latchable bar at predetermined positions during the folding movement. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for the user to manually operate catches during folding, reducing the effort required to handle the heavy work bench.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the frame components are hinged together for folding, then the work bench can be collapsed to a compact position, but foreign objects may easily become trapped between hinged frame components
Solution Approach 1:
The latchable bar serves as an intermediary component between the hinged frame members. Instead of the frame members directly contacting each other at hinge points, the latchable bar mediates the connection and can be latched at positions that prevent foreign objects from becoming trapped between the hinged components during folding operations.
3Volume of stationary object
If the work bench is designed to fold completely to a closed position, then storage space is minimized, but the folding process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The latchable bar is designed to be dynamically latched at multiple positions along its travel path, including a fully closed position and an open position. This dynamic latching capability allows the work bench to achieve complete folding for minimal storage space while the automated engagement of movable catches prevents the process from becoming complex or time-consuming.
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
Enables easy and efficient folding and unfolding of the work bench, minimizing storage space and carrying effort, while preventing accidental activation and ensuring secure latching in both positions.
Implementation Method 1
the latchable bar is releasable in order to allow both main joints to fall due to gravity
Data Source
AI summary
A work bench including a frame foldable between an in-use position and a closed position. A table surface is connected to the frame. The frame includes two sides, the two sides connected to each other with a latchable bar and one or more fixed crossbars. The work bench also includes movable catch which is movable from a position in which it retains the latchable bar at the latched position to maintain the work bench in an in-use position, and a released position in which the latchable bar is release from the catch to allow the work bench to be folded into a closed position.