Stabilizing a table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table stabilizing solutions, such as leveling feet or fixed objects, fail to adequately address wobble on uneven surfaces and are cumbersome to use, especially in restaurant settings where space constraints limit table repositioning.
Innovation Solution
A moveable wedge device that secures to the table leg, allowing easy adjustment without displacing the table, utilizing a linkage or flexible member to provide a stable load-bearing surface between the wedge and the floor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If leveling feet or glides are used to address table wobble, then table stability is improved, but the device becomes cumbersome to use requiring removal of items and turning the table on its side
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the wedge moveable along the table leg rather than fixed. The wedge can be freely positioned at different heights and removed when needed, transforming a static stabilization solution into a dynamic one that adapts to different table positions and surfaces while remaining easily accessible for adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the stabilization function from the traditional embedded leveling foot and implements it as a separate, removable wedge that can be independently positioned. This extracted approach allows the stabilization mechanism to be easily accessed and adjusted without manipulating the entire table or removing items from the tabletop.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tables are repositioned to accommodate space constraints, then adaptability is improved, but table stability deteriorates due to uneven surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The moveable wedge allows the stabilization mechanism to adapt dynamically as the table is repositioned. The wedge can be freely adjusted to different heights and locations along the table leg, enabling the table to maintain stability on various uneven surfaces regardless of its position in the restaurant space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by providing stabilization at the specific location where the table leg contacts the uneven surface. The wedge is positioned locally at the point of contact between the table leg and floor, addressing the stability issue precisely where it occurs without affecting other parts of the table structure.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed objects like matchbooks or wedges are placed under table legs, then table stability is improved, but the solution cannot accommodate re-positioning of tables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fixed wedge into a dynamic moveable wedge that can be freely positioned along the table leg. This dynamic design allows the stabilization mechanism to adapt when tables are repositioned, maintaining both stability and flexibility that fixed objects cannot provide.
Solution Approach 2:
The moveable wedge serves multiple functions: it stabilizes the table on uneven surfaces, accommodates table repositioning, and can be easily removed when no longer needed. This multi-functional design replaces the need for different solutions for different scenarios with a single versatile device.
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 device effectively stabilizes tables on uneven surfaces without displacing them, preventing beverage spills and allowing quick repositioning without disrupting dining or work activities.
Implementation Method 1
A moveable wedge device that secures to the table leg, allowing easy adjustment without displacing the table
Implementation Method 2
A benefit of the design is that the device is readily accessible for staff (or diners) to use to stabilize the table in a short amount of time and without the need to remove items from the tabletop
Data Source
AI summary
A table stabilizing device is configured to remedy wobble of a tabletop on a table. These configurations may include a slider that attaches or secures to a table leg of the table. The slider may have wedge W that interposes between the table leg and the floor. An end user can move the slider to change the position of the wedge W relative to the table leg, thus raising or lowering the table leg to stabilize the table. On a pedestal table with multiple legs, this feature will distribute weight across the other table legs.