Latch Mechanism for Multi-Function Game Table Mode Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional game tables with rotation mechanisms for converting modes suffer from slow assembly due to misalignment and exposure of locating members, which can injure users and affect the appearance.

Innovation Solution

A latch mechanism comprising a confinement component with a channel and a latch component featuring a base with a through passage and a switch, allowing angular movement to lock the tablet to the framework, ensuring secure and rapid flipping between game modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If locating members are used to secure the tablet to the framework, then the assembly is simplified, but the locating members separate easily and are not easy to align with the insertion hole

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidlocating member retention
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A latch member is introduced as an intermediary component between the locating member and the insertion hole. The latch member engages with both the locating member and the insertion hole, preventing the locating member from separating while facilitating easier alignment during assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The latch member adds a new dimension to the assembly mechanism by introducing a second stage of engagement. First the locating member aligns with the insertion hole, then the latch member secures it in place, transforming a single-step alignment problem into a two-step process that improves reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Device complexity

If locating members are exposed after assembly, then the structure is simplified, but the appearance is affected and users can be injured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoiduser injury risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The latch member serves as a protective intermediary that covers the locating member after assembly. This mediator component eliminates the harmful effect of exposed locating members while maintaining the simplicity of the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The latch member can be designed as a thin protective cover or shell that encloses the locating member, providing safety protection while maintaining aesthetic appearance and structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Ease of operation

If locating members are used for mode conversion, then the mechanism is easy to operate, but the assembly process is slowed down due to misalignment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation convenienceVSAvoidassembly speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The latch member is pre-configured with engagement features that guide the locating member into proper alignment with the insertion hole before final securing. This preliminary action prevents misalignment issues and speeds up the assembly process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The latch member replaces complex precision alignment mechanisms with a simpler mechanical engagement system that is more tolerant of alignment variations, thereby improving assembly speed while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS8241135B2Latch mechanism applied for multi-function game table
Publication Date: 2012.08.14 TSAI JERRY
  • US8241135B2 patent drawing
  • US8241135B2 patent drawing
  • US8241135B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A latch mechanism for a multi-function game table including a confinement component and a latch component. The game table has a framework and a tablet rotatably connected to the framework. The confinement component is connected to tablet of the game table. The latch component is connected to the framework of the game table and corresponds with the confinement component. A base of the latch component has a through passage corresponding with a channel of the confinement component. A switch of the latch component is located in the through passage of the base and has a manipulation member and a shut member. The manipulation member is pivotally connected to the base, and the shut member is connected to and extends outwardly from the manipulation member moving with the manipulation member. When the manipulation member pivots inside the base, the shut member is selectively inserted into the channel of the confinement component.