Systems and methods for providing a convertible bench

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge of providing a cost-effective and space-efficient solution that combines a bench with a backrest and a table, as separate purchases of both can be costly and space-consuming.

Innovation Solution

A convertible bench design that pivots between a backrest position and a tabletop position, utilizing arched leg supports and cross members to enhance strength while minimizing material usage, and incorporating an arched recess in the armrest for additional support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If both a separate bench with backrest and a separate table are purchased, then both seating and table functions are provided, but cost and space requirements increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedual function (bench and table)VSAvoidspace requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The bench is designed with a backrest/table portion that can pivot between a first position presenting a backrest and a second position presenting a tabletop. This allows a single piece of furniture to serve both as a bench with backrest and as a table, eliminating the need for separate purchases of both items and reducing space requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If both a separate bench with backrest and a separate table are purchased, then both seating and table functions are provided, but cost increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedual function (bench and table)VSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Strength

If arched leg supports and cross members are used, then structural strength is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bench includes a base having a first end piece that has a first set of legs with a first arched leg support that extends between the first set of legs and a second end piece having a second set of legs with a second arched leg support that extends between the second set of legs. The arch shape provides structural strength while being manufacturable as an integrated component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

4Loss of substance

If an arched recess is defined in the armrest, then material usage is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvematerial usageVSAvoidmolding precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

An armrest of the backrest/table portion defines an arched recess that provides strength to the armrest while reducing an amount of material needed to produce the armrest. The curved arch shape optimizes material distribution to provide structural strength while minimizing material usage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Data Source

PatentUS20250318653A1Systems and methods for providing a convertible bench

Publication Date: 2025.10.16 NORTON M BRENT

AI summary

Systems and methods for moving a convertible bench between a first position, which presents a backrest, and a second position, which presents a tabletop, is described herein. While the described systems can include any suitable component, in some cases, they include a base having a first end piece that has a first set of legs with a first arched leg support that extends between the first set of legs and a second end piece having a second set of legs with a second arched leg support that extends between the second set of legs. The bench further includes a backrest/table portion that is hingedly coupled to the base so as to be pivotable from a first position that presents a backrest to a second position that presents a tabletop. Other implementations are described.