Expandable folding table with removable insert panel assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional expandable folding tables cannot be both folded and extended without structural interference, as they lack a retractable panel assembly that allows for adjustable table length according to the number of seats needed.

Innovation Solution

A retractable panel assembly for an expandable folding table, comprising a movable panel and a first frame with a pivot device and sliding rail system, enabling the panel to be horizontally inserted between fixed panels for extension and hidden when collapsed, with a foldable and rotatable design to avoid interference with the folding mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If an extra panel is added to extend the table, then the table length is increased, but the folding function is interfered with by structural interference

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetable lengthVSAvoidfolding function

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The table top is segmented into multiple panels (first panel, second panel, and movable panel) that can be independently positioned. The movable panel can be inserted between the first and second panels to extend the table, or retracted to allow folding, thus resolving the contradiction between extension and folding functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The movable panel is designed with dynamic positioning capability through the sliding rail device and limiting structure, allowing it to switch between extended and retracted positions. This dynamic adjustment enables the table to adapt between extended and folded states without structural interference

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Volume of moving object

If the table is designed to fold for storage, then storage space is reduced, but the table top cannot be expanded

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage spaceVSAvoidtable top expansion

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The movable panel is designed to nest within the structure formed by the first and second panels when retracted. The sliding rail device allows the movable panel to be stored within the table frame structure, maintaining compact storage volume while preserving expansion capability when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS11684151B2Expandable folding table with removable insert panel assembly

Publication Date: 2023.06.27 YIXIANG BLOW MOLDING FURNITURE (NINGBO) CO LTD

AI summary

The present subject matter discloses a removable panel assembly for an expandable folding table. The removable panel assembly includes a movable panel and a frame that is retractable. The expandable frame also includes a fixed frame connected with a pivot device and a movable frame. The movable panel is foldable and can be horizontally arranged between two panels of the folding tables when it is in use. Furthermore, the movable panel can be stored under the fixed frame when it is collapsed. With the removable panel assembly, the table can be both foldable and extendable without structural interference. In addition, while being easy to operate, the removable panel assembly further enhances the functions and appearance of the table.