Furniture Coupling Element for Tool-Free Tabletop Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing furniture frames, particularly work tables, lack flexibility in configuration and ease of assembly, as they often require tools to adjust or remove components like tabletops, and existing coupling elements suffer from mechanical play and inability to lock the table top in place.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element with a planar guide section for panel displacement, connection points for longitudinal and furniture supports, and a panel locking mechanism that allows tool-free removal and secure locking of the table top, enabling flexible assembly and adjustment of furniture frames.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pins engage in guide slots to couple the tabletop, then the tabletop can be positioned, but it requires additional fastening and cannot be removed simply and without tools
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element provides a dynamic connection system where the tabletop can transition between locked and unlocked states. The guide slots work together with a locking mechanism that allows the tabletop to be securely positioned during use but easily removed when needed, eliminating the need for additional fastening elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element integrates both positioning and locking functions into a single self-contained component. The guide slots automatically engage with the tabletop positioning elements, and the integrated locking mechanism allows users to secure or release the tabletop without requiring separate fastening tools or operations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If furniture frames have a fixed configuration, then structural stability is maintained, but they cannot be easily adapted to changing positioning options
Solution Approach 1:
The furniture frame is divided into modular components including coupling elements, longitudinal members, and transverse members that can be independently positioned and connected. This segmentation allows the frame to maintain structural stability through standardized connection points while enabling flexible reconfiguration by moving individual modules to different positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element serves multiple functions: it provides structural connection points for longitudinal and transverse members, enables positioning of furniture supports, allows tabletop attachment with locking, and facilitates overall frame reconfiguration. This multi-functionality maintains stability while enabling adaptability to various configurations.
3Device complexity
If existing coupling elements are used, then connections are provided, but mechanical play occurs and the table top cannot be locked in place
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element merges multiple connection functions into a single integrated component. It combines guide slots for positioning, locking mechanisms for securing the tabletop, and attachment points for frame members. This consolidation eliminates mechanical play by providing precise, interlocking connections while maintaining relative simplicity in the overall device structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
The coupling element (1) has a connecting point (2,45) for a longitudinal carrier and two connecting points for a furniture support in each case, where the connecting points are shifted in transverse direction. A flat guide section running in transverse direction is provided for receiving a disk shifting element. The longitudinal carrier is provided for connecting the coupling elements and runs in longitudinal direction. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a furniture frame with a rolling element; (2) an assembly set for the assembly of a stand for a piece of furniture, particularly for a workbench; and (3) a construction kit for the assembly of a piece of furniture, particularly for a workbench.