Retractable table structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing table structures in confined spaces, such as vehicle passenger compartments, occupy unnecessary space when not in use, necessitating a solution that allows for deployment and retraction as needed.

Innovation Solution

A table structure with a lattice design incorporating shape memory material (SMM) members that can be configured between a retracted and fully deployed state, using energization to transition between configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a table structure is installed in a confined space, then it provides a functional surface for working or eating, but it occupies space in the occupant compartment when not in use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional surface availabilityVSAvoidspace occupation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The table structure is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable between deployed and retracted states. The lattice framework allows continuous transformation of the table top's position and configuration, enabling it to adapt between providing a functional surface and conserving space in the occupant compartment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The table top and lattice structure are designed to nest within the housing when retracted. The components are arranged to fit compactly within the available space, similar to nested dolls, minimizing the volume occupied when the table function is not needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If a retractable mechanism is added to enable deployment and retraction, then space is conserved when not in use, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace occupationVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Traditional mechanical retractable mechanisms such as motors, gears, and linkages are replaced with shape memory material members. These SMM members utilize thermal or electrical stimulation to change their physical state and drive the deployment/retraction motion, eliminating complex mechanical transmission systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The shape memory material members change their physical parameters (length, shape) in response to external stimuli such as temperature or electrical current. This parameter change directly drives the table structure between deployed and retracted configurations without requiring complex mechanical control systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If shape memory material members are used to enable configuration changes, then the structure can be controlled with simple energization, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration controlVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The table structure combines conventional structural materials with shape memory material members to create a composite system. The SMM members are integrated into the lattice framework, leveraging the properties of both traditional materials and smart materials to achieve controlled deformation and configuration changes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

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

Enables space conservation by allowing the table to be stowed when not in use, while providing a functional surface as needed, optimizing space utilization.

Implementation Method 1

at least one shape memory material (SMM) member operably connected to the table top such that energization of the at least one SMM member configures the table top to the fully deployed configuration and de-energization of the at least one SMM member enables configuration of the table top the retracted configuration

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory material effect: Shape Memory Alloy

Data Source

PatentUS12364326B2Retractable table structure

Publication Date: 2025.07.22 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK

AI summary

A table structure includes a table top structured to be configurable to a retracted configuration and to a fully deployed configuration for use. At least one shape memory material (SMM) member is operably connected to the table top such that energization of the SMM member configures the table top to the fully deployed configuration and de-energization of the at least one SMM member enables configuration of the table top the retracted configuration. The table structure may be incorporated into a wall of a vehicle as an optional, retractable accessory.