System comprising a worktop and a functional element, work table comprising such a system and method for producing a work table
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in precisely positioning functional elements on a worktop with narrow tolerances, which is complex and costly due to large assembly tolerances in kitchen furniture and the need for precise alignment of heating, display, and electronic components, often resulting in expensive and time-consuming manufacturing and setup processes.
Innovation Solution
The system employs centering means on both the worktop and functional elements that correspond to each other, allowing for precise positioning through a bearing element connected to the centering means, enabling vertical and lateral movement, thus simplifying the alignment and installation process, and allowing for easy exchange of functional elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If functional elements are positioned using brackets glued to the worktop, then the functional elements can be attached to the worktop, but the positioning precision is insufficient and the assembly process becomes extremely complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the positioning function into two separate centering means: first centering means integrated into the worktop and second centering means integrated into the functional element. This segmentation allows each component to contribute to the overall positioning precision without requiring complex external brackets or alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The centering means are merged into the respective components (worktop and functional element) rather than being separate alignment tools. This integration eliminates the need for external brackets and simplifies the assembly process while maintaining high positioning precision through the complementary design of the two centering means.
2Manufacturing precision
If functional elements are positioned using brackets glued to the worktop, then the functional elements can be attached to the worktop, but the assembly process becomes extremely costly
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the positioning function into integrated centering means on both the worktop and functional element, the system eliminates the need for expensive external brackets and complex alignment tools, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining high positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The centering means are designed to automatically guide the functional element into the correct position during assembly, eliminating the need for expensive precision alignment tools and skilled labor, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
3Shape
If the worktop is aligned with the wall to avoid visible gaps, then the appearance is improved, but the position of the worktop shifts relative to the substructure
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates movable support that allows the functional element to be positioned precisely relative to the worktop even when the worktop position relative to the substructure changes due to wall alignment requirements. This dynamic adjustment capability decouples the appearance alignment from the functional element positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The centering means automatically compensate for position shifts between the worktop and substructure, allowing the worktop to be aligned with the wall for appearance purposes while the functional element self-adjusts to maintain precise positioning through the movable support mechanism.
4Manufacturing precision
If narrow tolerances are observed for positioning functional elements, then the positioning precision is improved, but the assembly process becomes extremely complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The centering means are designed to automatically guide the functional element into the correct position with narrow tolerances during assembly, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment procedures and precision measurement tools, thereby achieving high positioning precision quickly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical alignment procedures with a simplified centering mechanism that automatically achieves narrow tolerances through the complementary design of the two centering means, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining high positioning precision.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system comprising a worktop (1) and at least one functional element (4) that can be arranged on the underside of the worktop (1), characterized in that the worktop (1) has at least one first centering means (6, 6'), that the functional element (4) has at least one second centering means (7, 7'), and that the first centering means (6, 6') and the second centering means (7, 7') are configured to correspond with each other such that the functional element (4) can be arranged in a defined position relative to the worktop (1). Furthermore, a worktable comprising such a system and a base, as well as a method for manufacturing such a worktable, are described.