Retractable Table Assembly with Spring-Biased Auto-Deploy Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable table assemblies in vehicles require awkward pulling motions to deploy and often result in small table sizes due to space constraints, with existing solutions being costly, complex, and heavy when motorized.
Innovation Solution
A retractable table assembly with a resiliently biased arm that automatically deploys when the latch is released, featuring a pin and heart curve mechanism, and a secondary link to maintain the tabletop's relative disposition, allowing for intuitive deployment and a larger usable surface area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a retractable table is designed to fold into a small space between seats, then it saves space and fits vehicle constraints, but the table size becomes quite small despite using two leaves
Solution Approach 1:
The tabletop is designed to nest within the armrest housing when retracted, with the table leaf sliding into a recessed position. The arm itself nests within the housing structure, creating a compact stowed configuration that minimizes space occupation while allowing full table deployment when needed
2Device complexity
If existing retractable tables require pulling motion to deploy, then the mechanism is simple, but the operation becomes awkward in confined spaces especially when holding items
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the user to pull the table outward against resistance, the resilient biasing member applies force in the opposite direction, automatically pushing the table toward its deployed position. The user simply needs to release the latch, and the table self-deploys by sliding forward on the telescopic arm, converting the deployment force from user-applied to spring-applied
Solution Approach 2:
The table assembly performs its own deployment action through the resilient biasing member that stores mechanical energy in the retracted state and releases it to automatically extend the table when the latch is released, eliminating the need for manual pulling effort
3Ease of operation
If motorized systems are used to avoid pulling motion, then ease of operation improves, but the system becomes costly, complex and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient biasing member acts as a passive self-service mechanism that automatically deploys the table without requiring motors, electrical systems, or complex control circuits. The spring mechanism provides sufficient force to overcome friction and deploy the table smoothly, achieving motorized-level ease of operation with simple mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient biasing member serves as an intermediary between the latched retracted state and the deployed state, mediating the transition through controlled mechanical force. This intermediary mechanism bridges the gap between simple latching and complex motorization, providing smooth automatic deployment
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 solution simplifies the deployment process, reduces the need for manual pulling, and provides a larger, more stable working surface by automatically deploying the table and maintaining its relative position, enhancing usability in luxury vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
wherein the arm is resiliently biased towards the deployed position
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable table assembly (5) for an automobile has a housing (6) located between the rear seats (2,3). Two tabletops (17a, 17b) are stowed in the housing and deployed on rotatable arms (12a, 12b). The arms are resiliently biased to the deployment position and when stowed, the tabletops are kept in place by push-push latches. A secondary link (16) between the tabletops and the pivot-point of the arms is provided, which maintains the relative disposition of the tabletop in relation to the housing during deployment. The tabletops can be deployed side-by-side so as to provide an expanded surface for working on.