Modular Table Frame Assembly for Lightweight Stable Configurations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table systems with configurable frames are often heavy and expensive due to substantial material usage, making them complex and costly to mass-produce while lacking flexibility in configuration and stability.
Innovation Solution
A modular table system featuring adjustable height legs with parallel slots for clamping frame members, allowing for multiple configurations through bending and angling of frame sections, and using apertures for fastener connections to create a lightweight, rigid, and robust frame structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If substantial material is used for frame cross-bridges to ensure stability, then the table frame achieves high stability, but the table becomes heavy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into separate components (cross-bridges and frame members) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The cross-bridges have standardized I-shaped sections that are segmented into discrete units, allowing the frame to achieve stability through modular assembly rather than substantial continuous material usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure uses composite construction combining wooden frame members with metal or plastic cross-bridges. This composite approach allows the use of lighter materials while maintaining structural stability, replacing the need for substantial solid wood cross-bridges with engineered composite components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the frame structure is designed to be configurable into multiple combinations, then the table achieves versatility, but the construction becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The cross-bridges are designed as universal components with standardized I-shaped sections that can function in multiple positions and configurations. The same basic cross-bridge component can be used in different table arrangements (single table, divided tables, various sizes), eliminating the need for multiple specialized parts and reducing construction complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow the structure to dynamically change configurations. Cross-bridges can be positioned at different locations along frame members, and the modular design enables easy reassembly into various table arrangements, providing adaptability without permanent complex construction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized cross-bridges and frame members are designed for a specific table design, then the table achieves desired configuration, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame system uses standardized segmented components (I-shaped cross-bridges with uniform dimensions) that can be mass-produced using conventional manufacturing processes. These segmented units are designed for easy fabrication and assembly, reducing production costs while maintaining configuration flexibility through modular combination.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross-bridge design employs standardized dimensional parameters (uniform I-shaped sections) that optimize both manufacturability and functionality. By establishing standard parameter sets for cross-bridge geometry and connection mechanisms, the system achieves configuration versatility through parameter variation in assembly rather than through complex specialized designs requiring expensive production.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a table system that allows for multiple table frame arrangements using various combinations of fundamental building pieces. An adjustable height table leg includes two parallel and horizontal slots adapted to receive and clamp two independent frame members of the frame. The frame members may be bent or angled in a plurality of configurations to achieve a desired shape for the table frame. Sections of the frame members may also include apertures through which fasteners may be threaded to connect two frame members at right angles.