Table system and table for a table system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table systems require cumbersome and time-consuming assembly processes for connecting table legs to table tops, making it difficult to quickly set up, dismantle, and flexibly combine tables for various occasions.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with movable clamping elements and a lever element that allows for easy assembly by pivoting the lever to engage the clamping elements with engagement elements on the table top, reducing the number of steps required and enabling flexible connection of multiple tables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional locking devices with multiple manual manipulation steps are used, then the connection between table legs and table tops is secure, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple clamping elements into a single integrated locking mechanism that can be actuated by one lever element. This merging of functions allows simultaneous engagement of multiple clamping elements through a single pivoting motion, dramatically reducing assembly steps and time while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device transitions from static manual manipulation to dynamic lever-based actuation. The lever element pivots about a pivot axis to automatically translate rotational motion into linear clamping motion, making the assembly process more efficient and less cumbersome
2Stability of the object's composition
If clamping bolts are used to positively insert into recesses, then the connection is stable, but the actuating element makes it difficult to stack table tops
Solution Approach 1:
The counterpart is designed to be recessed into the table top, with engagement elements positioned within the thickness of the table top. This nesting allows the locking mechanism to be integrated within the table top structure, eliminating protruding parts that would interfere with stacking while maintaining stable connection through the engagement elements
3Adaptability or versatility
If rails are attached to the underside of the table for positioning, then the position of table legs can be chosen freely, but the rails make it difficult to stack table tops
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the positioning function from separate rails and integrates it directly into the counterpart structure on the table top. The engagement elements are arranged to provide positioning guidance without requiring external rails, eliminating the stacking obstruction while preserving position flexibility through the geometry of the engagement elements
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
The solution simplifies the assembly process, allowing for quick and easy construction of tables and table systems, enabling flexible configuration and easy stacking of table tops without protruding parts.
Implementation Method 1
the actuating element being designed as a lever element which can be pivoted about a pivot axis to transfer the clamping elements from the unlocked position to the locked position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The device (7) has two movable clamping elements (9) arranged at an end of a table leg. An operating element operates and locks the clamping elements. A counter piece is mounted at a lower side of a tabletop, and comprises two engaging members. The clamping elements are moved from an unlocking position to a locking position by the operation of the operating element. The operating element is designed as a lever element (8), and pivotable around a pivot axis (12) parallel to the tabletop for transferring the clamping elements from the unlocking position to the locking position. An independent claim is also included for a table.