Segmented-Leg Table Assembly for Stable Flat-Pack Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current table designs that can be transported in a flat pack configuration either have unstable legs or complex hinging mechanisms, making them unsuitable for heavy-duty use or requiring excessive assembly time.
Innovation Solution
A heavy-duty table design featuring welded hollow tubing for the supporting structure, which can be easily assembled by inserting posts into channels and securing with screws, allowing for quick and sturdy assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hinged legs are used for flat pack configuration, then the table is easier to transport, but the legs become unstable and the hinging mechanism becomes too complex for heavy-duty use
Solution Approach 1:
The table is divided into separate components (top, legs, cross braces) that can be independently packed and transported. The legs are segmented into insertable portions that fit into channels, allowing flat pack configuration without complex hinging mechanisms while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertable leg portions are nested within channels formed by the top and cross braces. The legs fit inside the structural framework when packed, and protrude outward when assembled, providing both compact transport and stable support without requiring complex hinging mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If legs are detached for flat pack configuration, then the table is easier to transport, but assembly becomes time consuming and the supporting legs are not structurally sound
Solution Approach 1:
The legs are pre-configured with insertable portions that are designed to fit precisely into predetermined channels. The channels are pre-formed in the top and cross braces with appropriate dimensions and orientations, allowing the legs to be quickly inserted and secured without complex assembly procedures or excessive assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The channels act as intermediaries between the detached legs and the table top/braces. These channels provide a guided interface that aligns and secures the legs during assembly, reducing assembly time and ensuring proper structural integration without requiring complex fastening procedures.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional assembly methods are used, then the table can be assembled, but the supporting legs are not structurally as sound as they could be
Solution Approach 1:
The table employs a composite construction combining wood or composite material for the top and metal for the legs and cross braces. This composite approach allows each material to contribute its optimal properties (wood for surface functionality, metal for structural strength) while the insertable leg portions integrated into metal channels provide enhanced structural integrity compared to traditional assembly methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The channels are formed with specific curved or angled geometries that optimize the structural load path. The channels may include curved sections or angled orientations that distribute forces more effectively through the leg connections, enhancing structural integrity while maintaining simple assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A table disclosed herein features a horizontal surface, and at least two a supporting trusses designed to be quickly attached and fastened to a horizontal surface, is disclosed and claimed herein.