Multi-position table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Facilities often require multiple types of tables for seated and standing use, leading to logistical issues with storage, delivery, and change-over due to the need for different table types, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A multi-position table design featuring a substructure and superstructure with a pivoting element that allows the tabletop to adjust between two positions, one for sitting and one for standing, using a mechanical locking mechanism to secure the desired height without relying on hydraulic or gas shock absorbers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If facilities use multiple types of tables for seated and standing use, then the table can meet different usage requirements, but the logistical issues of storage, delivery, and change-over increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate tables (seated-use table and standing-use table) into a single multi-position table. The superstructure can pivot between a first position for seated use and a second position for standing use, eliminating the need for facilities to maintain separate tables for different purposes. This merging reduces the number of tables needed for storage, delivery, and change-over while maintaining adaptability to different usage requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The table is designed with universal functionality to serve multiple purposes. The adjustable superstructure allows the same table to function as both a seated-use table and a standing-use table, making it a multi-functional piece of furniture that can adapt to different user needs and settings without requiring specialized equipment for each function.
2Reliability
If a mechanical locking mechanism is used instead of hydraulic or gas shock absorbers, then the table achieves stability and durability, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical locking mechanism is designed to be self-sufficient, using interconnected adjusting elements and locking members that work together without requiring external power sources or complex control systems. The locking members engage with the adjusting elements to maintain the superstructure in selected positions, providing inherent stability through pure mechanical means rather than relying on hydraulic or pneumatic systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the superstructure is made pivotable to allow position changes, then the table becomes adaptable for different uses, but the reliability may be compromised due to potential unintended movement
Solution Approach 1:
The superstructure is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to pivot between different positions (seated-use and standing-use) when needed. The system transitions from a static fixed-position table to a dynamic adjustable table, where the superstructure can change its angular position relative to the substructure while maintaining stability at each position through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members are designed to engage with the adjusting elements before any unintended movement can occur. By having the locking mechanism ready and positioned to engage, the system prevents potential instability or accidental position changes, ensuring that once the superstructure is adjusted to a desired position, it remains securely locked in place.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-position table includes a substructure for resting on a base, a superstructure pivotable between a first table position for use while sitting and a second table position for use while standing. The superstructure includes a first support associated with the first table position, the first support having a first top surface spaced a first distance from the base when the superstructure is in the first table position; a second support associated with the second table position, the second support having a second top surface spaced a second distance from the base when the superstructure is in the second table position, the second distance being different that the first distance. The table includes a locking member for locking a first and a second adjusting element together to prevent unintended movement from the first table position to the second table position or from the second table position to the first table position.