Tool-Free Platform Assembly With Sliding Hook Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional low-height work platforms are inadequate for providing a continuous work surface, leading to discomfort and increased risk of falling when users need to position multiple platforms side by side, as they are heavy, have limited extension length, and feature protruding attachment means that pose safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A platform design with hinged sides that can be easily assembled and disassembled without tools, featuring a sliding assembly mechanism that allows platforms to connect seamlessly, eliminating protruding parts and enabling a continuous work surface without increasing weight or volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If platforms are positioned side by side to extend work surface length, then work surface area is increased, but user safety deteriorates due to discontinuities and falling risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple platforms into a single continuous structure by providing means to connect platforms end-to-end. The connection means include engagement features such as hooks, latches, or interlocking mechanisms that join the trailing end of one platform to the leading end of the next platform, creating a continuous work surface without gaps or discontinuities.
2Strength
If platforms are made heavier to increase structural strength, then platform stability is improved, but transportability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The platform incorporates adjustable components such as adjustable legs or height-adjustable support structures that can be configured during use to optimize stability. This dynamic adjustability allows the platform to achieve sufficient structural strength and stability without requiring excessive weight, thereby maintaining ease of transportability.
3Area of stationary object
If telescopic extension mechanisms are added to increase platform length, then work surface area is improved, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a telescopic extension mechanism on a single platform, the invention segments the work surface into multiple separate platforms that can be connected end-to-end. This segmentation approach achieves the goal of increased work surface area without requiring complex telescopic mechanisms, thereby avoiding the associated weight increase.
4Adaptability or versatility
If protruding attachment means are used to connect platforms, then platform connectivity is improved, but user safety deteriorates due to snagging risks
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts or removes protruding attachment means from the platform design. Instead, it uses recessed engagement features, flush-mounted connectors, or interlocking mechanisms that do not create protruding elements. This eliminates the snagging hazard while maintaining the ability to connect platforms effectively.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Platform (1, 2) comprising a platform (3) disposed between a first lateral part (4), and a second lateral part (5), the platform incorporating a first extreme portion (6), and a second extreme portion (7), the first lateral part being disposed on the first extreme portion, and the second lateral part being disposed on the second extreme portion, the first extreme portion comprising an assembly means (8) provided with a hooking means (35) suitable for fitting onto the second lateral part, the assembly means being movable longitudinally by sliding relative to the platform so as to move between a retracted position and an extended position, the assembly means being in the retracted position located between the first extreme portion and the second extreme portion, the assembly means being in the extended position protruding from the first extreme portion.