Tabletop Support Assembly Using Locking Mechanisms to Replace Welding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tabletop support installation methods are cumbersome, increasing fabricating costs and reducing production efficiency due to the need for welding and locking screws.
Innovation Solution
A rapidly assembled tabletop support design featuring cross members with integrated locking mechanisms and steps that engage with a stringer without welding, allowing for easy assembly and adjustment using connecting rods and blind rivets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding and locking screws are used to assemble the tabletop support, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the production efficiency decreases and fabricating cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is divided into separate functional elements: the stringer body, the locking mechanism with locking block, and the connecting member. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently through simple processing without welding, while still achieving reliable connection through the interlocking locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-activating through relative movement between components. When the connecting member is inserted, the locking block automatically engages with the locking groove through the guide slope, eliminating the need for additional locking screws or complex fastening operations.
2Strength
If welding is used to attach the slot to the stringer assembly, then the structural strength is improved, but the fabricating cost increases and production efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The slot is separated from the stringer body as an independent functional feature of the connecting member rather than being welded onto the stringer. The connecting member with its integrated locking mechanism can be manufactured through simple pressing or molding operations, eliminating costly welding processes while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The welding process is replaced with a mechanical interlocking system consisting of the locking block, locking groove, and guide slope. This mechanical substitution achieves equivalent or superior structural strength without the complexity and cost of welding operations.
3Reliability
If locking screws are used to secure the cross member to the stringer, then the connection reliability is improved, but the assembly efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is pre-configured on the connecting member during manufacturing, with the locking block positioned to engage the locking groove. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex assembly operations involving multiple locking screws, reducing assembly time while maintaining reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking block automatically engages with the locking groove through the guide slope when the connecting member is inserted into the cross member. This self-activating locking action eliminates the need for manual screw tightening operations, significantly reducing assembly time while ensuring reliable connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A rapidly assembled tabletop support includes cross members and a stringer perpendicular to the cross members. There are locking mechanisms on the cross member, and steps and necks corresponding to the steps on the stringer. By pushing the stringer to move relative to the cross member, the stringer and its steps are closely matched with a tube wall of the cross member, and the locking mechanism is engaged into the neck on the stringer, realizing rapid engagement between the cross member and the stringer. The rapidly assembled tabletop support has advantages such as high production efficiency, simple structure, convenient installation, reliable use, and adjustable length.