Locking Table Hinge With Auto-Unlatch Folding Legs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tables are not foldable, leading to space inefficiencies in storage, packaging, and transportation, and lack a mechanism for automatic latching during use and folding.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible table design with a locking hinge assembly and collapsible leg assembly that automatically disengages the locking feature when the leg is moved from an extended to a stowed position, allowing the table to fold and unfold securely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a conventional fixed table structure is used, then the table provides stable support during use, but it increases space requirements for storage, packaging, and transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The table is divided into two separate tabletop halves that can be folded relative to each other. The first tabletop half and second tabletop half are connected through a hinge assembly, allowing the table to be segmented into portable sections while maintaining stability during use through the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The table structure transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic foldable configuration. The hinge assembly with pawl pin mechanism enables the tabletop halves to rotate and fold, transforming the table between extended and collapsed states to adapt to different storage and usage requirements
2Volume of moving object
If a foldable table structure is implemented, then space for storage and transportation is reduced, but the table may lack rigid support and automatic latching during use
Solution Approach 1:
The pawl pin automatically engages with the notch in the hinge member when the leg assembly is in the extended position, preliminarily securing the tabletop halves in a fixed rigid configuration before use. This automatic latching ensures rigid support is established as soon as the table is set up
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly performs self-latching through the spring-loaded pawl pin mechanism that automatically engages or disengages based on the leg assembly position. The spring member provides the necessary force for the pawl pin to engage the notch automatically, eliminating the need for manual latching operations
3Reliability
If a manual latching mechanism is used, then the table can be secured during use, but it requires additional user operations and reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is fully automatic and self-actuating. The pawl pin is spring-loaded to automatically engage with the hinge notch when the leg assembly is extended, and automatically disengage when the leg is collapsed. This eliminates all manual latching operations while maintaining secure locking during use
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism uses the leg assembly position as feedback to control the latching state. When the leg is in the extended position, the cable tension moves the pawl pin to engage the notch, providing secure latching. When the leg is collapsed, the cable releases tension and the spring returns the pawl pin to disengage, automatically adapting to the table's operational state
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 the table to be rigidly supported when in use and efficiently stored or transported when folded, enhancing versatility and space savings through automatic latching and folding mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
A spring member having spring arms engages the pawl pin and biases it toward the first position
Implementation Method 2
Pivoting the at least one collapsible leg assembly from an extended position to a stowed position causes the pawl pin to be automatically moved from the first position to the second position
Implementation Method 3
A hinge pin or rod pivotally connects the first and second hinge members together and pivotally connects the third and fourth hinge members together
Data Source
AI summary
A table has first and second tabletop halves. A leg assembly is mounted to each half and collapses independently of the other and is movable between an extended position and a stowed position. A locking hinge pivotally connects the halves and automatically disengages a locking feature of the hinge when one of the leg assemblies is pivoted. The hinge includes first and second hinge members. The second hinge member includes a pawl pin slot and a pawl pin, which slides in the slot between a first position and a second position. Rotation of the first hinge member with respect to the second hinge member is prevented in the first position and is permitted in the second position. A cable is mounted between the leg assembly and the pawl pin. Pivoting the leg assembly causes the pawl pin to be automatically moved from the first position to the second position.