Table Sliding System with C-Shaped Groove to Reduce Friction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extendable tables face issues with compacted position leg space obstruction and high friction between wooden parts, leading to difficulties in extending and retracting the table surface, which are costly to resolve with low friction solutions.
Innovation Solution
A table sliding system featuring a sliding surface on either the table surface or frame with movable sliding members that reduce friction through a C-shaped groove and lacquer coating, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, and enabling movement along a single axis to maintain stability and prevent accidental disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If wooden members are used for the extendable frame, then the structure is simple and cost effective, but high friction occurs between the wooden parts making extension and retraction difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A sliding member with a C-shaped groove acts as an intermediary between the table surface and the wooden frame. The groove receives a sliding surface that moves along the frame, reducing direct friction between wooden parts while maintaining the simple wooden frame structure. This mediator enables smooth extension and retraction without requiring complex mechanical components.
2Ease of operation
If guide rollers are used to reduce friction, then low friction operation is achieved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simple sliding member with a C-shaped groove and a sliding surface instead of expensive guide rollers. The sliding surface can be made from inexpensive materials and provides sufficient low-friction operation for the application. This cost-effective approach achieves the desired operational smoothness without the high cost of precision roller mechanisms.
3Volume of moving object
If the table is in compacted position with pivoted edges, then the table is compact, but the areas between the legs are covered obstructing leg space
Solution Approach 1:
The table surface is segmented into a main portion and movable edges that can be independently positioned. The edges are connected via the sliding system, allowing them to be retracted alongside the main table surface rather than pivoting over the legs. This segmentation enables the edges to be stored in a compact manner that does not obstruct leg space when the table is in its compacted position.
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 system provides a cost-effective, easy-to-use, and space-efficient solution for extending and retracting the table surface while minimizing friction and maintaining stability, ensuring smooth operation and comfortable leg space even in compacted positions.
Implementation Method 1
A table sliding system featuring a sliding surface on either the table surface or frame with movable sliding members that reduce friction through a C-shaped groove and lacquer coating
Data Source
AI summary
A table sliding system comprising: a table surface (110) and a frame (120), wherein the table surface (110) and the frame (120) together form a sliding system (100) comprising a sliding surface (140) and at least one sliding member (150); wherein said at least one sliding member (150) is arranged to be movable along said sliding surface (140), to provide a relative movement between said table surface (110) and said frame (120).