Coupling structure for tables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tables lack flexibility in size and shape adjustment, leading to limited usability and inconvenience due to relative sliding when coupled, and existing coupling methods are inflexible and lack secure connection.
Innovation Solution
A table coupling structure with strip-shaped grooves and a rod-shaped coupling member that includes a limiting portion, enhanced by arc-shaped corner surfaces and a connecting base, ensuring secure and adjustable connections between tabletops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two tables are coupled together to expand surface area, then the table functionality is improved, but relative sliding between connected tables occurs causing inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is divided into distinct functional segments: an inserting portion that engages with coupling grooves in both tables, and a limiting portion that prevents relative sliding. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function effectively, resolving the sliding issue while maintaining expansion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary component between the two tables, providing a stable connection that prevents relative sliding. The limiting portion of the coupling member specifically mediates the interaction between tables by confining them within a coupling gap, thus eliminating the harmful sliding motion while preserving the beneficial table expansion.
2Ease of manufacture
If existing coupling methods are used to connect tables, then connection is achieved, but the method is singular and cannot be flexibly adjusted according to space or position
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is designed with universal applicability through multiple groove configurations. The first table can have coupling grooves on front/rear sidewalls or left/right sidewalls, and the same applies to the second table. This multi-functionality allows the same coupling member design to adapt to various spatial arrangements and positioning requirements, greatly enhancing flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling structure allows dynamic adjustment of table configurations. Tables can be coupled in different orientations (short sides together, long sides together, or L-shaped arrangements) depending on space requirements. The coupling member maintains stable connection while accommodating these dynamic reconfigurations, enabling flexible adaptation to different spatial conditions.
3Ease of operation
If a simple coupling method is used to join tables, then assembly is easy, but connection strength is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is segmented into an inserting portion and a limiting portion, each performing a specific function. The inserting portion provides easy insertion into coupling grooves for simple assembly, while the limiting portion ensures strong connection by preventing relative movement and confining tables within a coupling gap. This segmentation achieves both ease of assembly and strong connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member merges two critical functions into a single component: the inserting portion for easy assembly and the limiting portion for strong connection. By combining these functions in one integrated component, the structure achieves both operational simplicity and mechanical strength without requiring multiple separate parts or complex assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
The present subject matter is directed to a table coupling structure, comprising a first table and a second table coupled to each other, wherein a respective coupling groove is formed on the coupling side of each tabletop. A coupling member is inserted into the first coupling groove and the second coupling groove to couple the first tabletop and the second tabletop. When coupling the table structure, it is only necessary to insert the coupling member into the first coupling groove and the second coupling groove, thereby enabling the first tabletop and the second tabletop to be coupled together. The connection is firm and stable during use. For disassembly, it only needs to pull out the coupling member, making both coupling and disassembly of the coupling structure convenient. In addition, multiple tables can be connected together as needed, and different coupling methods can be flexibly combined.