Modular Vehicle Table Assembly with Segmented Folding Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle users require a versatile and compact table system that can serve multiple purposes, such as eating, working, and organizing gear, without increasing storage or load requirements, particularly for non-driving activities like camping or relaxation in vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A modular table assembly with a table body composed of rigid segments joined by flexible joints, attachable to vehicle components like the steering wheel or door handle, allowing for multiple configurations and a support base for use on the ground, enabling flexible positioning and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single multi-functional table is used to reduce storage requirements, then the quantity of substance is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The table body is divided into multiple rigid segments (first set of three segments and second set of two segments) connected by flexible joints, allowing the table to be segmented and reconfigured into different configurations (first folded configuration, second folded condition, unfolded configuration) to reduce storage requirements while maintaining manageable complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The single table body is designed to perform multiple functions by being attachable to different mounting brackets (steering wheel mounting bracket, door handle mounting bracket, support base) and configurable into different states, eliminating the need for multiple separate tables and reducing overall quantity of substance
2Volume of moving object
If the table body is folded to minimize storage space, then the volume of moving object is reduced, but the rigidity for supporting objects is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The table body transitions between dynamic folded states (first folded configuration, second folded condition) for storage and a static unfolded configuration for use, allowing the system to adapt its volume while maintaining rigidity when needed through the rigid segments and flexible joints design
3Ease of operation
If the table assembly is made portable and removable, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of the connection to vehicle components may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets are pre-configured with specific engagement mechanisms (base portion for engaging steering wheel spoke, retention portion for door handle) that ensure reliable connection before use, allowing easy removal and reinstallation while maintaining connection stability during use
Data Source
AI summary
A table assembly for a vehicle includes a first mounting bracket attachable on a first fixed vehicle component and a table body. The table body has a plurality of rigid segments joined together by a corresponding plurality of flexible joints. A first one of the flexible joints extends in a first direction and at least another of the flexible joints extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The table body is configured to be removably coupled with the first mounting bracket such that the first mounting bracket supports the table body in a generally horizontal position with the table body in a first configuration folded along the first flexible joint such that the at least another of the flexible joints is positioned to extend along one of the plurality of rigid segments.