Height-adjustable table frame with a radially mountable synchronizing shaft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table frames with synchronously height-adjustable columns require complex assembly processes, particularly when one column is already attached to a tabletop, as they necessitate precise axial alignment of shaft segments which is difficult to achieve.
Innovation Solution
The table frame design incorporates a shaft with multi-part segments that allow for radial and pivoting movements to align and couple shaft segments, facilitated by coupling surfaces and fixing elements, enabling assembly even when columns are mounted, and ensuring synchronous extension and retraction of telescopic columns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the shaft segments are connected using purely axial movement as in prior art, then the connection can be achieved through simple overlapping, but precise axial alignment is required which makes assembly difficult when columns are already attached to tabletop
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces radial movement as a new dimension for assembling shaft segments, in addition to the traditional axial movement. The radial component allows the shaft segments to be connected without requiring precise axial alignment, as the radial movement can compensate for misalignment. This is achieved through a connection mechanism that accepts both radial and axial movements, thereby resolving the contradiction between assembly ease and alignment precision requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If one column is already attached to tabletop during assembly, then the table can be assembled in situ, but the shaft segments cannot be precisely aligned axially making connection difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables in-situ assembly by introducing radial movement capability to the shaft segment connection mechanism. When one column is already attached to the tabletop, the radial movement component allows the shaft segments to be connected without requiring precise axial alignment, which would be impossible in the constrained in-situ condition. This resolves the contradiction between assembly flexibility and assembly difficulty.
3Reliability
If the shaft segments require precise axial alignment for connection, then the connection can be achieved through simple overlapping, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces assembly time by introducing radial movement capability to the connection mechanism. The radial component allows for quick alignment and connection of shaft segments without the need for time-consuming precise axial alignment procedures. The connection mechanism is designed to accept radial movement, enabling rapid assembly while maintaining connection reliability through the combined radial and axial connection approach.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a table frame with a shaft for synchronizing the height adjustment of two columns. Outer shaft segments are each coupled to a telescopic drive in the respective columns. A change in column length causes the outer shaft segments to rotate, and vice versa. A main segment (middle segment) of the shaft can be coupled to the outer shaft segments. The main segment can be positioned relative to the outer shaft segments with a movement that has a component in the radial direction to the axes of the outer shaft segments, in order to bring coupling surfaces into contact with one another and/or to align the shaft segments coaxially. A purely axial movement of the main segment relative to the outer shaft segments is not required to connect the shaft segments.