Table Top Slot-Based Fastening for Multi-Base Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in efficiently fastening table tops made of HPL materials to variously shaped and sized base frames, as existing methods require multiple hole patterns or complex drilling operations, which are costly and logistically challenging for wholesalers and assembly companies lacking industrial facilities and precise machinery.
Innovation Solution
The table top features slots or grooves on its underside that align with the holes of the fastening cross or plate, allowing self-tapping or metric screws to be screwed directly into these slots, eliminating the need for drilling and enabling compatibility with a wide range of commercially available fastening devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hole patterns are provided for different base frames, then compatibility with various bases is improved, but warehousing costs and logistical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tabletop is designed with a universal slot pattern that can accommodate multiple base frame types and hole patterns. The slots are positioned and oriented to align with common fastening hole locations on various mounting crosses, allowing a single tabletop design to work with different bases without requiring multiple inventory variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening system is segmented into the tabletop with pre-cut slots and the separate base frame with holes. This segmentation allows the tabletop to have fixed slot positions while the base frame can vary in design, enabling compatibility without requiring the tabletop to be customized for each base type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If holes are drilled during assembly, then compatibility with different bases is improved, but assembly complexity and required equipment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The slots are pre-cut into the tabletop during manufacturing before assembly. This preliminary action eliminates the need for drilling operations at the assembly stage, allowing assembly companies to simply align and fasten the tabletop to the base frame without requiring drilling equipment or specialized personnel.
3Ease of manufacture
If adhesive bond is used, then assembly simplicity is improved, but connection reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical adhesive bonding system with a mechanical fastening system using slots and screws. This substitution provides a permanent, reliable mechanical connection that is not affected by environmental factors like heat and humidity, while still maintaining assembly simplicity through the pre-cut slot design.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for fastening a table top on a substructure which comprises a fastening means which can be screwed to the underside of the table top, in particular a fastening means with a fastening cross, fastening plate or the like, on which the table top rests, wherein said fastening means has a defined pattern of holes with a plurality of holes or mounts for fastening screws, which can be plugged through said holes in each case and by way of which the fastening means is screwed to the table top. According to the invention, the table top (10) has slots (11) or grooves which are made in its underside and run such that, when the table top is placed in position on the fastening means, in particular the fastening cross, they coincide with the holes (20) or mounts of the fastening means, in particular of the fastening cross (17), wherein fastening screws which can be screwed into the table top (10) in each case in the region of the slots (11) or grooves are provided.