Rotating Overbed Table Base for Stability in a Smaller Footprint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional overbed tables have a large footprint due to their base configuration, which limits maneuverability and space usage, and often require moving the entire table or base to switch between overbed and side table configurations, causing tripping hazards and inefficient space utilization.
Innovation Solution
A table design featuring a base with weighted, T-shaped floor engaging portions and a vertical support column, allowing the worksurface to rotate 180 degrees, reducing the overall footprint and enabling versatile use without relocating the base, combined with wheels for easy movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the base is configured with sufficient length and width to provide counter-balance stability, then the table achieves adequate stability, but the base occupies a relatively large footprint limiting space utilization and maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed with asymmetric floor engaging portions where the first floor engaging portion extends in a first direction and the second floor engaging portion extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. This asymmetric configuration allows the base to achieve adequate counter-balance stability while occupying a smaller overall footprint compared to traditional symmetric base designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The base transitions from a traditional two-dimensional footprint to a three-dimensional configuration with floor engaging portions extending in perpendicular directions. The vertical support column also enables vertical adjustment, adding a height dimension that allows the worksurface to be positioned at different heights, effectively utilizing vertical space to reduce horizontal footprint requirements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the worksurface is made non-rotatable relative to the base to prevent tipping, then the table achieves stability, but the entire table including the base must be moved when the worksurface is not needed, causing tripping hazards and inefficient space utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The table is segmented into independently movable components: the worksurface member can rotate relative to the base, and the support column can rotate within the housing. This segmentation allows the worksurface to be rotated away from the base for storage without moving the heavy base, improving maneuverability while maintaining stability when in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The table transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The worksurface member is rotatable relative to the base through a defined range of motion, and the support column can rotate within the housing. These dynamic features allow the table to adapt between stable operational positions and compact storage positions, resolving the contradiction between stability and maneuverability.
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 design enhances maneuverability, reduces tripping hazards, maximizes floor space, and allows for efficient use as both an overbed and side table without repositioning the base, while maintaining stability through a centered gravity system.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second floor engaging portions are weighted such that the base has a center of gravity spaced from the vertical axis on the second side of the vertical axis
Implementation Method 2
The overbed table is supported by wheels engaging a floor, and is capable of being moved (e.g., pushed or pulled) about on the floor
Data Source
AI summary
A table includes a vertical support column and a base. The base includes a first floor engaging portion disposed on a first side of a vertical axis and a second floor engaging portion disposed on an opposite second side of the vertical axis. The first and second floor engaging portions are weighted such that the base has a center of gravity spaced from the vertical axis on the second side of the vertical axis. A worksurface member is supported by the vertical support column and is vertically spaced from the base. The worksurface member is rotatable relative to the base. In one aspect, the worksurface member has an overall length greater than the overall length of the base. In another aspect, a stop limits rotation of the worksurface member.