Rollable Table Assembly with Dual-Wheel Steering and Cargo Barriers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing table devices with wheels do not incorporate a cargo barrier, limiting their functionality as both a table and a cart, and often feature wheels mounted on pivoting arms which may not provide adequate stability or control during transport.

Innovation Solution

A table design with a first and second half that are slidably coupled, featuring non-pivotable first wheels for stability and pivotable second wheels for steering, along with integrated barriers to prevent cargo from sliding, and light emitters for illumination, allowing the table to be used as both a conventional table and a cart.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If wheels are mounted on pivoting arms, then steering capability is improved, but stability during transport deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesteering capabilityVSAvoidstability during transport

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The wheel assembly is segmented into two distinct types: fixed non-pivoting wheels for stability and pivotable wheels for steering. This segmentation allows each wheel type to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different parts of the wheel assembly have different qualities - some wheels are fixed to provide stability, while others are pivotable to provide steering capability. This local differentiation of properties resolves the contradiction between stability and maneuverability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Ease of operation

If the table is designed to be rollable like a cart, then mobility is improved, but cargo security deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovemobilityVSAvoidcargo security

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Cargo barriers are pre-installed on the table surface before cargo is placed. This preliminary provision of protective structures ensures that cargo security is maintained from the outset during transport operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The table is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a stationary table and as a movable cart. The integrated cargo barriers ensure that when used as a cart, it provides adequate cargo security while maintaining mobility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the table can be converted between shortened and extended positions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition conversion capabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The table structure incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to transition between shortened and extended positions. This dynamic design enables adaptability while managing structural complexity through controlled movement mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11439231B2Rollable table assembly

Publication Date: 2022.09.13 LYONS BRETT

AI summary

A rollable table assembly for employing a table as a cart includes a table comprising a first half that is slidably coupled to a second half. A handle is slidably integrated into the table for gripping. A plurality of first wheels and a plurality of second wheels are each rotatably coupled to the table for rolling along the support surface. A plurality of light emitters is each coupled to the table. Each of the light emitters emits light when the light emitters are turned on to illuminate an area.