Folding Table Locking Mechanism With Controlled Intermediate Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for folding tables do not provide a controlled transition from the locked to the unlocked position, leading to sudden release and potential object displacement when pivoting into a stowed position.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism that incorporates an intermediate position with limited play, allowing the table top to pivot by only a few degrees before full release, preventing sudden object displacement by gradually increasing play as the locking mechanism is released.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the locking mechanism is completely released to allow full pivoting of the tabletop, then the tabletop can be freely moved into the stowed position, but objects on the tabletop may suddenly fall down due to uncontrolled pivoting
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into multiple discrete positions: a locked position, an intermediate position with limited play, and a fully released position. This segmentation allows controlled transition through distinct states, preventing uncontrolled pivoting while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediate position is introduced as a mediator between the locked and fully released states. This intermediate state provides a transition zone with limited play that prevents objects from falling while still allowing the tabletop to begin its pivoting motion.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the locking mechanism provides firm locking to prevent movement, then objects on the tabletop remain stable, but the tabletop cannot be pivoted into the stowed position
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic released state through an intermediate position. This dynamic transition allows the system to adapt between firm locking and free pivoting, providing both object stability and pivoting capability as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The play or clearance in the locking mechanism is changed as a parameter between different positions. In the locked position, play is minimized for stability; in the intermediate position, limited play is provided; and in the released position, full play is available for pivoting.
3Speed
If the locking mechanism releases suddenly to allow full pivoting, then the tabletop can be quickly moved to the stowed position, but objects on the tabletop slip or fall down
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate position serves as a preliminary action stage before full release. It allows the locking mechanism to begin the release process and initiate tabletop pivoting while maintaining limited play to prevent objects from falling, preparing the system for complete release in a controlled manner.
Data Source
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Figure 2
AI summary
The mechanism has a locking and releasing device comprising a locking and releasing lever (145) and acting together with a locking and retaining device in a locking condition, such that a table plate is held in its operating position. The locking and releasing device is pivotable around a pivoting axis (144) opposite to the retaining device, such that the plate is pivotable from the operating position to a stowage position, where the plate is pivotable only around a limited angle range in an intermediate condition between the locking condition and a releasing condition of the mechanism.