Magnetic Table Ganging Mechanism for Easy Stable Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table connecting devices require significant user effort to connect and lock tables, are prone to malfunction due to worn threads, and limit the flexibility of modular table systems, increasing design and manufacturing costs and inventory complexity.
Innovation Solution
A ganging mechanism using pivotable swing arms with magnetic attraction between metal and magnet components allows for easy and secure attachment of tables, eliminating the need for complex installation and reducing inventory needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional screw or bolt connecting devices are used to connect tables, then the connection is secure and stable, but the user effort and time required to connect and disconnect tables increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical screw or bolt tightening system with a magnetic field-based connection system. The magnetic connecting device uses magnetic attraction forces to securely hold tables together without requiring threaded fasteners, thereby eliminating the need for users to manually tighten or loosen screws while maintaining stable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary force between the connecting components. The magnetic field acts as the mediating mechanism that provides secure attachment without direct mechanical engagement, allowing tables to be connected and disconnected easily while maintaining stability during use.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional screw or bolt connecting devices are used, then the connection can be secure, but the threads become dirty or worn over time causing the device to malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates threaded mechanical components that are susceptible to contamination and wear. By using magnetic attraction forces instead of threaded fasteners, the system removes the parts that become dirty or worn over time, thereby improving long-term reliability while maintaining connection stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If connecting devices are fixedly mounted to the tabletop, then the connection is stable, but it becomes difficult to use the tabletops in a modular system and increases inventory requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal magnetic connecting device that can be used across multiple tabletop configurations and sizes. The magnetic connectors are not fixedly mounted but can be positioned flexibly, allowing the same device to work with various tabletop arrangements in modular systems, thereby reducing the need for multiple specialized connecting devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from fixed, static mounting of connecting devices to a dynamic system where magnetic connectors can be freely positioned and repositioned. This dynamic capability enables the connecting devices to adapt to different modular configurations while maintaining stable connections, enhancing versatility without sacrificing connection reliability.
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
The mechanism provides a robust, secure, and attractive method for connecting tables, reducing user effort and design complexity while enabling flexible table configurations and cost savings.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second ganging members are releasably coupled to one another by magnetic attraction
Data Source
AI summary
A ganging mechanism is configured to releasably attach a first object to a second object. The ganging mechanism includes a first part that is coupled to the first object. The first part includes a movable portion that carries a first ganging member. The movable portion is positionable between a stowed position and an extended position. The second part is coupled to the second object. The second part includes a receiver portion that receives the movable portion in the extended position. The second part includes a second ganging member that is configured to couple to the first ganging member resulting in the first object being ganged to the second object. The first and second ganging members are releasably coupled to one another by magnetic attraction.