Rotatable Latch Fastening for Tool-Free Dismantlable Tables

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fastening systems for modular tables, such as screws and sliding latches, are impractical for frequent dismantling and storage, as they require tools, increase the thickness of the tabletop, and do not facilitate easy positioning or self-centering.

Innovation Solution

A fastening system featuring a rotatable latch with lateral bosses and a recess under the tabletop, allowing for quick engagement and self-centering, which reduces the thickness of the tabletop and eliminates the need for tools, using a flange structure with shallow recesses and elastic studs for secure clamping.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If screws with threads are used to fasten the tabletop to the structure, then the fastening is secure and reliable, but the tabletop thickness must be increased to accommodate the threading length

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefastening securityVSAvoidtabletop thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system is divided into separate components: a latch body and a flange structure. The latch engages with the flange through a hook-and-lug mechanism, eliminating the need for threaded holes through the entire tabletop thickness. This segmentation allows secure fastening without increasing overall tabletop thickness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of threading from the top surface of the tabletop downward, the fastening system inverts the approach by having the latch engage from the bottom side with the flange structure. The hook engages with the lug on the flange, reversing the traditional fastening direction and avoiding the need for deep threaded holes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Device complexity

If a sliding latch system is used to fasten the tabletop, then the fastening mechanism is simpler, but the tabletop thickness must be significantly increased and the positioning is not easy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefastening mechanism simplicityVSAvoidtabletop thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The latch transitions from a linear sliding motion to a rotational motion around a pivot point. This dimensional change allows the latch to engage and disengage more easily while maintaining a compact profile that does not significantly increase tabletop thickness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The latch system incorporates self-centering features through the geometry of the recess and the latch shape. As the latch rotates into position, it automatically centers itself within the recess, eliminating the need for precise manual positioning and ensuring proper alignment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Strength

If traditional screws and wrenches are used for fastening, then the connection is strong, but the assembly and disassembly process requires tools and is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidassembly speed

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The manual screw-and-wrench mechanical system is replaced with a spring-loaded latch mechanism. The spring provides automatic engagement force when the latch is inserted, and a simple pressing motion on the release lever disengages the connection. This substitution eliminates the need for tools and significantly speeds up assembly and disassembly operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring is pre-compressed during manufacturing to store engagement energy. When the latch is inserted into the flange, the spring automatically expands and secures the connection without requiring additional manual force or tools. This preliminary action ensures strong connection while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Productivity

If the table is designed to be easily dismantled for storage and transport, then the storage efficiency is improved, but the fastening system becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage efficiencyVSAvoidfastening system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system transitions from a static screw connection to a dynamic latch mechanism that can quickly change between locked and unlocked states. The movable latch component, guided by the recess geometry, enables rapid assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity during use, thus improving storage efficiency without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11751679B2Dismantlable table comprising quick fastening means for fastening the tabletop to a structure

Publication Date: 2023.09.12 LAFUMA MOBILIER

AI summary

A dismantlable table includes a tabletop that is fastened by a fastening component to a structure forming a frame, the structure having a lip that lies flat under the tabletop. Each fastening component includes a latch that is rotatable about a vertical axis, having at least one laterally protruding boss, and includes a recess formed under the tabletop that has at least one protrusion facing the axis. In a mounting position, the bosses pass into the recess next to the protrusions, and in a locking position following rotation, the bosses fit above the protrusions, a lower bearing plane of the latch lying under the lip of the structure.