Gravity-Released Work Bench Frame for Continuous Folding Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable work benches with integral clamping tables are difficult to fold due to weight and awkward movement requirements, often trapping foreign objects between hinged frame components, making them cumbersome to carry and store.
Innovation Solution
A folding mechanism where the frame is held in the 'in-use' position by latched members that release under gravity, allowing the work bench to fold continuously into a compact position, with a latchable bar and movable catches that facilitate easy folding and unfolding, and optional extension portions acting as feet for support during closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the work bench uses a traditional folding mechanism with multiple stages and catches, then the frame can be folded between open and closed positions, but the folding operation becomes difficult and awkward due to weight and complex movements
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a latchable bar with separate latched and unlatched positions, movable catches that engage with the latchable bar, and hinge joints that allow controlled movement. This segmentation simplifies the overall operation by breaking down the folding action into discrete, manageable steps rather than requiring complex multi-stage manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding mechanism incorporates gravity-assisted folding where the work bench automatically folds from the open to closed position once the latch is released. The weight of the table surface and frame components provides the driving force for folding, eliminating the need for the user to manually overcome the entire weight during the folding operation. The user only needs to initiate the folding action by releasing the latch, after which the system serves itself through gravitational force.
2Volume of moving object
If the frame components are hinged together for folding, then the work bench can be collapsed to a compact position, but foreign objects may easily become trapped between hinged frame components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary elements such as pads or protective coverings on the hinged components and moving parts. These intermediaries prevent direct contact between metal surfaces and act as barriers that stop foreign objects from becoming trapped in the hinge joints. The intermediary materials are typically soft or compliant, allowing them to deform and accommodate small objects rather than trapping them.
Solution Approach 2:
The design converts the potential harm of tight-fitting hinged components (which trap foreign objects) into a benefit by incorporating deliberate gaps or clearance in the hinge design. These gaps, while potentially reducing structural rigidity, allow foreign objects to pass through rather than become trapped. The harm of loose fitting is converted into the benefit of foreign object exclusion.
3Volume of moving object
If the work bench is designed to be compact for carrying and storage, then it minimizes space and effort, but the folding mechanism becomes more complex and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The latchable bar is pre-positioned in a latched state that automatically secures the frame in both the open and closed positions. This preliminary latching action eliminates the need for the user to manually hold or support the frame during transitions. The latch mechanism is pre-configured to engage at specific points in the folding trajectory, allowing compact folding without requiring complex user intervention throughout the entire motion sequence.
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
Enables easy and efficient folding and unfolding of the work bench, minimizing storage space and carrying effort, while preventing accidental activation and ensuring secure latching in both positions.
Implementation Method 1
Both main joints are joined to the releasable crossbar, such that when the work bench is in the in-use position the latchable bar is latched to a component of the frame at a latched position and is releasable in order to allow both main joints to fall due to gravity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a work bench comprising a frame foldable between an in-use position and a closed position, a table surface connected to the frame, said table surface including at least two members, at least one of said members movably coupled with said frame for enabling clamping of a workpiece between said members. The frame has two sides, left and right, which are connected to each other via a latchable bar and one or more fixed crossbars. Each of the two sides of the frame includes a bracket assembly supporting the table surface, a rear leg pivotally connected to the bracket assembly and a front leg pivotally connected to the bracket assembly. Each side also includes a bracket strut, one end of which is pivotally connected to the bracket assembly, wherein the bracket strut is connected closer to one end of the bracket assembly than both the rear leg and the front leg are, a rear strut, one end of which is pivotally connected to the rear leg, and a front strut, one end of which is pivotally connected to the front leg. The bracket strut, rear strut and front strut of each side of the frame are pivotally connected to each other at a respective main joint, and both main joints are joined to the releasable crossbar, such that when the work bench is in the in-use position the latchable bar is latched to a component of the frame at a latched position and is releasable in order to allow both main joints to fall due to gravity.