Collapsible RV Dinette Table Assembly Without Support Posts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional convertible dinettes in recreational vehicles require support posts or legs to be stowed when converted into a bed, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible table assembly with a vertically shiftable carriage and four-point supporting linkage allows the table top to be easily raised and lowered between table and bed positions, eliminating the need for support posts or legs, using a gas piston for biasing the table top upward and a lock bar for securing the position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If support posts or legs are used to support the table top in conventional dinettes, then the table top can be stably supported in the raised table position, but the support posts must be stowed when converting to bed position, which complicates the conversion process and reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the support posts or legs from the system entirely. Instead of having removable support elements that need to be stowed, the table top is directly supported by the linkage mechanism that connects it to the wall bracket, eliminating the need for separate support posts and simplifying the conversion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic linkage mechanism with wheels that can roll along tracks, allowing the table top to be easily raised and lowered between table and bed positions. This dynamic system replaces the static support posts, enabling smooth transitions without manual stowing of support elements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the table top is directly converted to bed position by removing support posts, then space can be utilized, but the structural integrity and stability of the table top is compromised during conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism with rolling wheels provides continuous dynamic support to the table top throughout the conversion process. The table top remains stable and supported at all times as it transitions between positions, rather than being left unsupported during conversion as in conventional designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an asymmetric linkage configuration where the linkage arms and wheel tracks are positioned to provide optimal support during conversion. The linkage geometry is designed to maintain proper support angles and forces throughout the motion, ensuring structural integrity during the asymmetric conversion process.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional support posts are used, then the table top can be supported, but additional components must be manufactured, assembled, and stowed, increasing manufacturing complexity and assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support function with the linkage mechanism itself. The linkage arms and wheel-track system perform both the structural support function and the positioning function, eliminating the need for separate support posts. This consolidation reduces the total number of components and simplifies manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism serves multiple functions: it supports the table top in the raised position, enables smooth conversion to bed position, and provides structural stability throughout. This multi-functional design replaces multiple specialized components (support posts, mounting brackets, stowing mechanisms) with a single versatile system.
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 seamless conversion between table and bed positions without tools, providing a more sturdy and space-efficient solution by maintaining the table top's structural integrity and eliminating the need for support posts, enhancing user convenience and space utilization.
Implementation Method 1
A gas piston urges the table top toward the raised table position
Data Source
AI summary
This dinette for use in a recreational vehicle includes a collapsible table assembly, which shifts vertically between a raised table position and a lowered bed position and eliminates the need for support posts or legs. The collapsible table assembly includes a table top/bed deck mounted to a vertically shiftable carriage and supported by a four point linkage. The carriage rides on four wheels, which are seated in two opposed tracks of a wall bracket. The support linkage allows the table top to be raised and lowered between the table and bed positions. A gas piston or spring biases the table top toward the raised table position.