Convertible Sawhorse Worktable Rack and Gear Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable sawhorse assemblies require complex disconnection and reconfiguration to switch between sawhorse and workpiece support configurations, which is cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A convertible assembly with pivotably connected sawhorse legs and a worktable that uses racks and gears to smoothly transition between sawhorse and worktable positions, allowing for simultaneous rotation and support adjustments without full disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the workpiece support table is fully disconnected from the sawhorse elements and separately pivoted, then the assembly can be moved between configurations, but the operation becomes complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece support table is integrated with the sawhorse elements through shared support rods, merging the disconnection and pivoting operations into a single coordinated motion. The table remains connected to the sawhorse legs via the support rods, eliminating the need for full disconnection while enabling smooth configuration transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support rods serve multiple functions: they act as both connection elements between the worktable and sawhorse legs, and as pivot axes for configuration changes. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and operations needed, simplifying the overall conversion process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the workpiece support table is fully disconnected from the sawhorse elements, then configuration change is possible, but structural integrity is lost during transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The workpiece support table remains structurally integrated with the sawhorse elements through the support rods during configuration transitions. This continuous connection maintains structural integrity while enabling configuration changes, eliminating the need for complete disconnection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate disconnection and pivoting operations are used, then configuration conversion is achieved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnection and pivoting operations are merged into a single coordinated motion where the workpiece support table pivots about the support rods while remaining connected. This eliminates the sequential nature of separate operations, reducing the time required for configuration conversion.
Solution Approach 2:
The support rods are pre-positioned and connected to both the worktable and sawhorse legs before configuration changes are needed. This preliminary arrangement allows for immediate pivoting motion without requiring prior disconnection or preparation, reducing conversion time.
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 sawhorse and worktable configurations, enhancing usability and efficiency by maintaining structural integrity and support during transitions.
Implementation Method 1
A first rack and a second rack are secured to the worktable... A first gear disposed in engagement with the first rack and a second gear disposed in engagement with the second rack. A gear axis rod extends and is secured adjacent a first end to the first gear and adjacent a second end to the second gear. The worktable slides above the upper end of the sawhorse during at least a portion of the movement between the first and second conditions with the racks causing simultaneous rotation of said gear via the gear rod.
Data Source
AI summary
A convertible sawhorse and work table assembly includes two sawhorse legs, a worktable and two pivoting support rods. The two support rods are pivotably attached to the work table near one end thereof and to one of the sawhorse legs at the other end thereof. When in the closed condition, the sawhorse legs are folded against each other, with the worktable folded along one of the legs and the two support rods folded against the other sawhorse leg. In a second condition, the sawhorse legs are pivoted away from each other with the worktable and support rods remaining folded against the legs. In a third condition, the table is pivoted upwardly away from the one sawhorse leg until it is disposed substantially horizontally above the sawhorse legs, and is then slid rearwardly relative thereto until the pivot support rods are fully extended away from the other sawhorse legs.