Furniture Frame Structure Using Shape Memory Polymer Blanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The traditional method of creating resting furniture, such as couches and mattresses, is labor-intensive, expensive, and not amenable to automation, leading to high production costs, long lead times, and inefficient transportation due to the need for manual assembly and welding of multiple parts.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a generic solid body processed by machine tools to create a base structure without assembly or welding, employing techniques like numerical control machining and shape memory polymers to automate the production of furniture frames, allowing for efficient processing and compaction of materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional manual assembly and welding methods are used to create furniture frameworks, then the structural integrity and geometric precision can be achieved, but the production time and labor costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The framework is divided into multiple modular components (first component, second component, third component) that can be manufactured separately through automated processes and then assembled. This segmentation enables parallel production of multiple parts, significantly reducing overall production time while maintaining geometric precision through standardized interfaces and automated assembly guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary actions by pre-manufacturing framework components using automated CNC machining and other automated processes before final assembly. The components are prepared with precise geometries and attachment features in advance, allowing rapid assembly without time-consuming on-site fabrication, thus resolving the contradiction between precision and production time.
2Productivity
If automated machine tools are used to process the solid body, then productivity and production efficiency increase, but the initial processing complexity and equipment investment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional manual mechanical assembly operations with automated machine tools including CNC machines, robotic manipulators, and automated drilling/fastening systems. This substitution dramatically increases productivity by performing multiple operations automatically without human intervention, while the complexity is managed through programmable control systems and standardized component designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes parameter changes by varying material properties (using solid bodies with different densities and strengths), temperature conditions during processing, and machining parameters to optimize the manufacturing process. These parameter adjustments enable automated machines to efficiently process diverse materials and create varied framework designs without proportionally increasing system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are assembled to form the framework, then design flexibility and customization options increase, but the assembly complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality through standardized component interfaces, modular design elements, and reusable attachment mechanisms that work across different framework configurations. The same basic component types and assembly methods can be used for various furniture designs (chairs, tables, benches), allowing design flexibility while reducing assembly complexity through standardized procedures and automated assembly equipment.
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
This approach significantly reduces production time and costs, enables mass production, and simplifies transportation by eliminating the need for manual assembly and welding, while allowing for customization and efficient storage and delivery of pre-processed components.
Implementation Method 1
the structure is made from a shape memory plastic material in a first shape and is transformed into a second shape
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention described a method for the realization of a structure for couches, beds, mattresses, chairs and similar. In particular the operations that characterize the following method initially comprise the prearrangement of a solid body with a predetermined initial shape and a further process at the machines tools (4). In such manner it is obtained directly by a sole starting piece the finished product. Of particular interest for the present application result to be the composite material of polymeric type with shape memory.