DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF UNIVERSAL TABLE

A Project Report Submitted

in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements
for the Degree of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
in
Mechanical Engineering

by
SAGAR SRIVASTAVA (1616440097)
RISHABH SINGH (1616440093)
PRAKHAR SHUKLA (1616440079)
NIKHIL SRIVASTAVA (1616440070)

Under the Supervision of

Mr. Anshu Anurag
Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology, Kanpur

to the
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering

DR. A. P. J. ABDUL KALAM TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY, LUCKNOW

April, 2020

1
 CERTIFICATE

Certified that Sagar Srivastava (1616440097) Rishabh Singh (1616440093) Prakhar

Shukla (1616440079) Nikhil Srivastava (1616440070) has carried out the research work
presented in this project entitled “Design and Fabrication of Universal Table” for the
award of Bachelor of Technology from Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Technical University,
Lucknow, under my supervision. The project embodies results of original work, and
studies are carried out by the student their self and the contents of the project do not form
the basis for the award of any other degree to the candidate or to anybody else from this
or any other University / Institution.

Signature Signature
(Mr. Anshu Anurag) (External Examiner)
(Professor)
Mechanical Engineering
PSIT, Kanpur

Date:

2
 ABSTRACT

The proposed idea provides a perfect solution to the problems borne from talus disease.
The simple and affordable process leaves no reason not to be accepted. Surveys tell us
that there is significant need of space-saving extensible and multi-purpose tables now
days but due to high prices and costly maintenance, common people are not able to use
such devices. Stepping into working, effects and features of proposed device, this device
doesn’t have any high costs which is difficult to purchase and no tough interface.
The necessity of comfort and provocation of modern methodologies deployed to achieve
the same is directly proportional. Human beings are the only ones who are capable of
achieving the sort of things that makes their living simple and well-mannered. The
congestion of population and increasing number of talus patients, the universal table
offers a mean that can be used as an ordinary table but can be made to adjust as we like it.
The idea of a universal table that is modest at size and weight is one good medium to
overcome the problem of space available at household or official uses.
The proposed method will use batteries or direct supply to run the motors that will turn it
into a mass-functioning beast. There is a plywood surface for the table. The feet of the
table will be joined with the bottom of the surface with hinges so that they would be able
to move up and down in a free manner as needed and will stay balanced until not
commanded to move. As the user will command using the interface given, the table will
extend to more than 1.5 times its size, will stay balanced and acquire the form of a square
table. This square table would be able to bear a load of about 6 Kgs that is more than
enough for a table of this functionality. The tilt command can be activated as well at the
same time so that the table’s surface will incline to the limit that user wishes and is
feasible. Again, the extensible table has another feature of adjustable height. Its feet will
function as inside-fit cylinders so that it would be easier to be handled by even children,
or the persons with not very good height.
The people with a problem of Cervical Spondylitis, and the persons who have
involvement in literary activities for most of their time will be the ones going to opt this
table as their companion as it is portable, easy to operate and is cheap hence there will be
no significant burden on the budget.
In the name of a low-maintenance, portable and multipurpose machine that can provide
the needed comfort to us in such a reasonable space, our project is considerably
satisfying. Also, it is a lot easy to be handled by even a child.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

It gives us a great sense of pleasure to present the report of the B. Tech Project
undertaken during B. Tech. Final Year. We owe special debt of gratitude to Professor Mr.
Anshu Anurag, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pranveer Singh Institute of
Technology, Kanpur for his constant support and guidance throughout the course of our
work. His sincerity, thoroughness and perseverance have been a constant source of
inspiration for us. It is only his cognizant efforts that our endeavors have seen light of the
day.
We also take the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of Professor Dr. Nitin
Srivastava, Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pranveer Singh Institute of
Technology, Kanpur, for his full support and assistance during the development of the
project.
We also do not like to miss the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of all faculty
members of the department for their kind assistance and cooperation during the
development of our project. Last but not the least; we acknowledge our family & friends
for their contribution in the completion of the project.

Signature: Signature:
Name: Sagar Srivastava Name: Rishabh Singh
Roll No.: 1616440097 Roll No.: 1616440093
Date: Date:

Signature: Signature:
Name: Prakhar Shukla Name: Nikhil Srivastava
Roll No.: 1616440079 Roll No.: 1616440070
Date: Date:

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 TABLE OF CONTENT
CHAPTER 1 ...................................................................................................................... 9
INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 9
1.1 BACKGROUND OF PROJECT ............................................................................... 9
1.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................... 9
1.2 DIFFERENT MODES IN WHICH THIS TABLE WORKS. .................................. 10
1.2.1 STUDY TABLE ................................................................................................... 10
1.2.2 MEETING TABLE .............................................................................................. 10
1.2.3 DINING TABLE .................................................................................................. 10
1.2.4: INCLINED TABLE FOR PATIENTS ................................................................ 10
CHAPTER 2 .................................................................................................................... 11
LITERATURE SURVEY............................................................................................... 11
2.1 FURNITURE DESIGN ........................................................................................... 12
2.2.1 PROGRAMMING FOR FURNITURE ................................................................ 12
2.2.2 FURNITURE DESIGN METHODOLOGY ........................................................ 13
2.3 MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACE-SAVING FURNITURE ...................................... 14
2.3.1 HISTORICAL CONTEXT ................................................................................... 14
2.4 SUSTAINABILITY ................................................................................................ 17
2.4.1 MATERIALS ....................................................................................................... 17
CHAPTER 3 .................................................................................................................... 18
DESIGN ........................................................................................................................... 18
3.1 DESIGN OF MAIN FRAME .................................................................................. 18
3.2 DESIGN OF MOVING PLYWOOD ...................................................................... 18
CHAPTER 4 .................................................................................................................... 22
FABRICATION .............................................................................................................. 22
4.1 LIST OF COMPONENTS ....................................................................................... 22
4.1.1 PLYWOOD ........................................................................................................ 22
4.1.2 RACK AND PINION ......................................................................................... 22
4.1.3 DC MOTOR: ...................................................................................................... 23
JOHNSON GEARED MOTOR .................................................................................... 23
4.1.4 TRANSFORMER .............................................................................................. 24
4.1.5 ALUMINIUM CHANNELS .............................................................................. 25
4.1.6 ARDUINO MEGA MICROCONTROLLER .................................................... 25
4.1.7 RELAY 12V SPDT ............................................................................................ 26
4.1.8 LIMIT SWITCH................................................................................................. 27
4.1.9 DIODE IN4007 .................................................................................................. 27
4.1.10 CAPACITOR.................................................................................................. 28

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 4.1.11 PMM DC MOTOR: ........................................................................................ 29
4.1.12 TOGGLE SWITCH (PUSH TO ON SWITCH).............................................. 30
4.1.13 TRANSISTOR BC547 ................................................................................... 30
4.1.14 LED’S ............................................................................................................. 31
4.1.15 RESISTORS: .................................................................................................. 32
4.1.16 STRIP WIRE .................................................................................................. 32
4.1.17 PCB ................................................................................................................. 32
4.1.18 VOLTAGE REGULATOR WITH HEAT SNIK ........................................... 33
4.2 COST ANALYSIS: ............................................................................................ 34
4.3 FABRICATION PROCESS ............................................................................... 35
CHAPTER 5 .................................................................................................................... 36
TESTING AND ANALYSIS .......................................................................................... 36
CHAPTER 6 .................................................................................................................... 37
RESULT AND DISCUSSION ....................................................................................... 37
6.1 RESULT .................................................................................................................. 37
6.2 DISCUSSION ......................................................................................................... 37
CHAPTER 7 .................................................................................................................... 38
CONCLUSION ............................................................................................................... 38
CHAPTER 8 .................................................................................................................... 39
FUTURE SCOPE ............................................................................................................ 39
8.1 INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................. 39
8.2.1 SPACE SAVING BEDS .................................................................................... 40
8.2.2 SPACE SAVING TABLES ................................................................................ 41
8.2.3 THE SPACE SAVING CHAIR .......................................................................... 43
8.3 ASSEMBLY HARDWARE............................................................................... 43
8.3.1 SPECIAL HARDWARE .................................................................................... 43
8.3.2 THE SLIDING SYSTEM ................................................................................... 45
8.4 APPLICATIONS AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT ....................................... 45
8.5 THE COST AND PRICE ................................................................................... 47
8.6 THE IMPORTANT MARKETS ........................................................................ 48
8.6.1 THE INDIAN MARKET ................................................................................... 48
8.6.2 THE US MARKET ...................................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
REFERENCES................................................................................................................ 51

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 LISTS OF FIGURE
Figure 2.1 Housing and Family Well-being ..................................................................... 11
Figure 1.2 Programming has six distinct steps that are sequential ................................... 13
Figure 2.2.2.1 Anthropometrics: Body Measurements ..................................................... 14
Figure 2.3.1.1 Wooden Chest Independent sketch based on similar photo ...................... 15
Figure 2.3.1.2 Drop Arm Sofa Independent sketch based on similar photo ..................... 15
Figure 2.3.1.3 Military Camp Day-bed Independent sketch based on similar photo ....... 15
Figure 2.3.1.4 Murphy bed—plan view Independent sketch based on similar photo ...... 16
Figure 2.3.1.5 Murphy bed—perspective view Independent sketch on similar photo ..... 16
Figure 3.1.1 TOP VIEW OF MAIN FRAME................................................................... 18
Figure 3.1.2 SIDE VIEW MAIN FRAME ....................................................................... 18
Figure 3.2.1 MOVING PLYWOOD ................................................................................. 18
Figure 3.2.2. Parts name and its quantity ......................................................................... 19
Figure 3.2.3 Parts list and its design ............................................................................... 20
Figure (a) FRONT VIEW ................................................................................................. 21
Figure (d) (EXTENDED) ................................................................................................. 21
Figure 3.2.4 DIFFERENT VIEWS ................................................................................... 21
Figure 4.1.2.1 pinion gear ................................................................................................ 23
Figure 4.1.2.2 rackgear ..................................................................................................... 23
Figure 4.1.3 Johnsons motor ............................................................................................. 23
Figure 4.1.4 12-0-12 CENTRE TAPPED TRANSFORMER .......................................... 24
Figure 4.1.6 Arduino Mega 2560 controller ..................................................................... 26
Figure 4.1.7 SPDT switch ................................................................................................. 27
Figure 4.1.8 limit switch ................................................................................................... 27
Figure 4.1.9 Diodes ........................................................................................................... 28
Figure 4.1.10 Capacitor..................................................................................................... 29
Figure 4.1.11 PMM DC motor.......................................................................................... 29
Figure 4.1.13 Transistor .................................................................................................... 31
Figure 4.1.14 Light-emitting diode (LED) ....................................................................... 32
Figure 4.3 Process flow diagram of fabrication ................................................................ 35
Figure 8.2.1.1 Examples of space saving furniture: A desk and a bed ............................. 40
Figure8.2.1.2. Feature of the design ................................................................................. 40
Figure8.2.1.3. Bunk beds .................................................................................................. 41
Figure8.2.2.1. Space saving table ..................................................................................... 42
Figure8.2.2.2. Extended Space saving table ..................................................................... 42
Figure8.2.2.3. A dining room table that can be turned into a billiards table .................... 42
Figure8.2.2.4. Space saving chairs.................................................................................... 43
Figure 8.3.1.1. Special hardware ...................................................................................... 44
Figure 8.3.1.2. Special hardware ...................................................................................... 44
Figure 8.3.2 the sliding system ......................................................................................... 45
Figure 8.4 a simulation layout of the Ikaros Bavaria Team design .................................. 46

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 LISTS OF TABLE
Table4.1.4: Transformer Terminal Description ................................................................ 25
Table 4.1.9 Pin Configuration:.......................................................................................... 28
Table 4.1.13 Pin configuration: ....................................................................................... 31
Table 8.6 (a). The top 20 cities of highest population density in the world ..................... 50
Table 8.6(b). The top 4 highest average waged city in India ............................................ 50
Table 8.6(c). A ranking of the average property prices of cities in India ......................... 50

LIST OF CHARTS
Chart 8.5 a comparison of labour costs in different countries…………………………...48
Chart 8.6(a) Indian urban populations…………………………………………………...49

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 CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of project
The necessity of comfort and provocation of modern methodologies deployed to achieve
the same is directly proportional. Human beings are the only ones who are capable of
achieving the sort of things that makes their living simple and well-mannered. The
congestion of population and increasing number of talus patients, the universal table
offers a mean that can be used as an ordinary table but can be made to adjust as we like it.
The idea of a universal table that is modest at size and weight is one good medium to
overcome the problem of space available at household or official uses.
The proposed idea provides a perfect solution to the problems borne from talus disease.
The simple and affordable process leaves no reason not to be accepted. Surveys tell us
that there is significant need of space-saving extensible and multi-purpose tables now
days but due to high prices and costly maintenance, common people are not able to use
such devices. Stepping into working, effects and features of proposed device, this device
doesn’t have any high costs which is difficult to purchase and no tough interface
The purpose of the universal table is to fulfil all the needs that are to be demanded from it
as a table, and also some of them which usually aren’t. Cervical Spondylitis is an
inflammation of the vertebra. The persons suffering from this disease are not able to turn
their neck down or look down with their neck inclined. This table has the ability to tilt
itself in any direction the user needs. It can greatly reduce the agony of the people who
suffer in reading while looking down.
The list of technologies already available is as follows:
1. Ordinary tables (no motion)
2. Tilt able tables (without automation)
3. Tables with customized footrest
4. Extensible tables without tilt.
The previously designed similar products were observed to be having either higher
weight or less functionality, higher cost etc. as they were either made out of heavy
materials or costly design methodologies. Also, as spoken for our proposed product, it is
having very simple mechanical joints it functions with, and yet there is the property of it
being lightweight that will be considerably better than other products.
1.2 Project Description
This project i.e. universal table is a table which can able to perform various functions
according to the need of the user and can be used universally. Being universal in nature it
can be used in offices, school, hospitals, colleges and even at homes for personal use.
This table can able to alter its height, length, breadth according to the need. i.e. it can
increase or decrease its height according the need of the user and height of the user just
by tapping the single button.
It can also increase is size. like if it is used by a single user and if all of the sudden there
comes some more user to work on it so it can be able to increase its dimension for the
ease of the work. It can extend its length, its breadth and overall dimension just by
tapping the single button so that its overall surface area gets extended and all the user can
use it as a table.

9
The main feature of this table focusses on the very common diseases by which the person
is suffering from that is spondylitis. If a person is suffering from this disease, then he or
she may not able to read and write on a flat table so for the ease they tilt the table or
something which is inclined to them. This will make them easier to read and write. So our
project serves the problem to those people. This table itself able to change its orientation
according to the need of the user. It can tilt itself in whatever the angle of inclination
required by the user. Its motion is from 1° to 20° so it can be adjusted in almost every
angle that ranges between this span of angles. This features give comfort to those peoples
and can be very helpful in that use.
Because of all these features this table can be used almost everywhere like in homes,
hospital, offices. Because of this fully packed table it can be used by the peoples having
different heights like for someone who is short heighted can use this table by increasing
or decreasing its height in whatever the amount in which he or she may be comfortable.
And for those also who are medium or long heighted can alter its height according to ease
and comfort.

1.2 Different modes in which this table works.

1.2.1 Study Table: It can be used as a study table for persons using this table at homes.
This is the best option and use of this table as it allows each and every person of the
family to use this as a study table because of its flexible design.
1.2.2 Meeting Table: It can also be used as meeting table in the offices as it is auto
adjustable according to no of peoples using it as it can extend itself and change its size
and can be used as a meeting table for almost 6 to 8 peoples.
1.2.3 Dining Table: As it is flexible in design it can be used as a dining table in home as
well as in the offices hospital etc.
1.2.4: Inclined table for patients: this table is able to change its orientations so it can be
used in the hospitals as a serving table for the patient who are not able to take their
servings from a flat table, so this table can tilt itself and provide them ease to use.

10
 CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE SURVEY

The interactions of people in the real world, whether at home, work or at school, were
dependent on their surroundings. This could range from the quality of teachers to the
ambiance of the facility. A significantly influencing factor that had been explored was the
effect of living conditions on people’s performance. Just as humans were not built the
same physically, they also differed in their emotional and psychological profiles. In the
article Housing and Family Well-being, Bratt (2002) illustrated three ways in which
housing does in fact affect the well-being of a family. The first was the physical attributes
of the house, second, the way in which this related to its occupants, and third, the
neighborhood conditions surrounding the house. The concept is clearly illustrated below.

Figure 2.1 Housing and Family Well-being

Physical attributes and availability of housing referred to whether or not the people
physically had a home. It also explored how high/low the quality of the home was;
whether or not it consisted of basic necessities and if it provided a safe living
environment for all ages. The next property focused on the relationship of the house to its
occupants. Factors include how crowded the interior spaces and whether or not the cost
11
of living was affordable (i.e., electricity, water, etc.). Bratt (2002) portrays the remaining
factors by mentioning that housing impacts “families differentially depending on the
relationship between the size and cost of the unit, the size and income of the family, the
family’s perception of their housing and the relative security the housing provides”
(Bratt, 2002, p.6). The last property discussed was the neighborhood conditions,
including quality and safety of the neighborhood where the house was located and its
accessibility to vital venues. Similar to Bratt (2002), Robinson and Adams (2008)
conducted a study for the Australian Institute of Family Studies on Housing Stress and
the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Families. We used the World Health Organization
(WHO) definition of housing implications on family health to lie in the physical
structure, safety and intimacy it provided, surrounding urban design and quality of
services available, and community and quality of neighborhood relationships. (Robinson
& Adams, 2008) These categories were consistent with Bratt’s model of Housing and
Family Wellbeing. Harker’s studies showed that poor living conditions could lead to a
25% higher risk of experiencing severe illness and disability. This could also have a
distressing impact on one’s emotional wellbeing. Dire housing conditions had an impact
on inhabitants’ safety. An unsafe environment increased the likelihood of accidents and
injury, which were exacerbated greatly in the case of over crowdedness. In Harker’s
(2006) study of the impact of bad housing on children’s lives, it was mentioned that
“almost half of all childhood accidents are associated with physical conditions in the
home”. Consequently, if the interior design and the furnishings of a home were not well
thought out, they could be extremely dangerous, particularly in teeming spaces. Bratt
(2002) addressed this idea with a similar approach by saying that “the evidence makes it
clear that housing affects perception of one’s self, contributes to or relieves stress, and
affects health”.

2.1 FURNITURE DESIGN

“Furniture is one of man's most prized possessions. He sits on it, sleeps on it, eats on it,
and perhaps most importantly, puts his most valuable belongings into it” (Eckelman,
2003). Furniture was also an essential part of an interior space that affected the actions
and behavior of humans. It was imperative to understand the preferences, activities and
needs of the user before designing or choosing furniture for a space.

2.2.1 Programming for Furniture

Before a designer can decide what furniture to apply to a space, the environment and
people needed to be evaluated. The methodology used in the planning stage was known
as programming interior spaces. “A program generally takes a form of a written or
graphic document in which background information, analysis of facts, evaluation, goals,
and conclusions relevant to the problem solution are documented and presented in a clear,
organized manner, facilitating communication between user and designer. The program
establishes the basic goals and objectives for the designer during the design phase”.

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 Figure 1.2 Programming has six distinct steps that are sequential

“When a large amount of information must be programmed, a model or paradigm

generally consists of six basic steps: establishing goals, gathering and analyzing facts,
specifying needs, evaluating the program, organizing, and presenting conclusions
relevant to the problem situation”. We had to understand the convoluted environment and
then designs could be applied accordingly.

2.2.2 Furniture Design Methodology

There were several separate, yet closely related areas of design which should be
considered in the creation of a new furniture piece. According to the Eckelman’s
furniture design theory (Eckelman, 2003) and furniture design methodology developed.
and thought at Wood Research Laboratory, Purdue University, good furniture design
should address different design areas listed below:
Aesthetic design - is the most dominating and important area of furniture design. It is the
artistic development of a structural form that is appealing to consumers and which will
culturally enrich their lives.
Functional design - is the planning of the structure so that it will perform its intended
function in as efficient manner as possible. Functional design concepts ordinarily receive
much less attention. Yet, in many cases, the correct functional design of a piece of
furniture is even more important than either the esthetic or engineering design (Eckelman
2003).
Engineering design - is the planning of the structure so that it can safely resist the loads
imposed upon it in service. Skilled craftsmen can intuitively create furniture that is
structurally sound, however, furniture designer can use the engineering principles to
create strong and durable furniture piece.
Design for manufacturing - furniture should be designed with understanding of
manufacturing capabilities and options which should be relevant to the level of industrial
development. Designer should choose a manufacturing path that is straight forward and
practical (Design for Manufacturing (DFM) Guidelines - Engineers Edge, 2013)
Design for the environment - products are designed and produced with the effort to
reduced environmental impact. Designer should address how products are being
developed, produced, where materials used for the production will be outsourced, what
are the environmental consequences of their production and use, and how they are
disposed of at the end of their life cycle, could they have a second life or could they be
recycled etc.

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Anthropometric/ Ergonomic design - Anthropometrics are the measurement of the size
and proportion of the human body.

Figure 2.2.2.1 Anthropometrics: Body Measurements

The goal and a challenge of a good design was to address all design types simultaneously
in order to obtain ultimate outcome - the furniture product which would be aesthetically
pleasing, user-friendly, durable, easy to manufacture, will support the user and would be
environmentally responsible.
2.3 MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACE-SAVING FURNITURE
Refugees endured the hardships of being displaced, and sometimes permanently moved,
from their home countries. In addition, many refugees today were permanently bound to
live in camps that might or might not be supported by the government. Nongovernmental
or “unofficial” refugee camps usually receive no attention in the form of family planning
and guidance or community development. (Chassay & Campbell, 2007). Over the years,
the population grew significantly transforming the environment into a slum-like region.
With little to no money, families ended up settling in very small dwellings. Their inability
to afford new houses or expand the existing one, the next generation family often shared
same living space; thus, exacerbating what was originally a convoluted problem.
Overcrowded homes could result not only from the number of family members, but also
from mismanaged space as well. This problem had a solution; multifunctional furniture.

2.3.1 Historical Context

Figure 2.5 shows a wooden chest. Once the chest is closed, the piece can also be used as
a daybed. This concept dates back to the late Gothic era.

14
 Figure 2.3.1.1 Wooden Chest Independent sketch based on similar photo

Figure 2.6 was known as the ‘drop arm’ sofa. The model here shows a couch with
adjustable sides. When the sides are lowered, the sofa transforms into a daybed. This
innovation dates back to the early 17th century in England.

Figure 2.3.1.2 Drop Arm Sofa Independent sketch based on similar photo

Figure 2.3.1.3 Military Camp Day-bed Independent sketch based on similar photo

According to U.S. Patent Office records, Thomas Jefferson was the inventor of the first
Hideaway Bed ever patented in the United States. Although the original design plans no
longer exist, the bed is believed to have been elevated to the ceiling by pulleys and ropes,
and secured in place when not in use. The Murphy Bed was another improvement to the

15
furniture design world. The piece was invented by American William Lawrence Murphy
in 1900. The space-saving Murphy bed pivoted on the doorjamb of a dressing closet and
then lowered into a sleeping position. It folded back upright and hid in the closet until
next use. In 1908 Murphy patented his “In-a-door” bed. The floor plan appears in figure
2.8 and a sketch of the perspective view in figure 2.9.

Figure 2.3.1.4 Murphy bed—plan view Independent sketch based on similar photo

Figure 2.3.1.5 Murphy bed—perspective view Independent sketch based on similar photo

As time went on, it was no longer merely the big furniture items that were being utilized
in multiple ways. Inventors like Odo Klose improved two single purpose pieces into
one—for multi-use. His creation was a chair and a step-ladder in one. “The arrangement
has a base frame and a backrest which is pivotally mounted on the base frame and
adapted to be folded from a backrest position to a step-ladder position and vice versa for
respective use as the top rung of the step-ladder when it is in a horizontal position and as
the backrest of a chair when it is in the backrest position” (Klose, 1981, para. 1). With
respect to the previous examples, it was apparent that furniture fulfilling more than one
function has been present for some time and may therefore continue to prosper.

16
2.4 SUSTAINABILITY
There were several existing companies that acknowledged the sustainable way for
designing their products- Green Design being one of them. Their philosophy was to
achieve a sustainable relationship with the environment. It consisted of two major
categories.

 “Reduction of the ‘footprint’ that is left throughout the process of making the new
products. This could be done by using low-impact, non-toxic, sustainably produced or
recycled materials that required less energy to convert from raw to finished state” (Green
is more than just a name, 2011).

 “Design products, buildings and services to function in an environmentally friendly

manner are equally important for determining whether it is truly 'green'. The 'green'
design “consumes less energy, is engineered for quality and durability so it lasts longer
with less maintenance, is engineered for reuse or recycling, and does not lead to physical
harm” (Green is more than just a name, 2011).

2.4.1 Materials
The standard that evaluates how green or sustainable a piece of furniture was greatly
dependent on the materials that go into the final product and its manufacturing process.
Ensuring that the material was extracted from non-threatened resources, harvested in a
conscientious manner, realizing how far it had to travel to get to the final destination, and,
most evidently, knowing if the material might cause any harm or side effects to the
consumer, are all essential variables that needed to be considered. The consumer was not
the only one who might be negatively affected by the product. Several questions must be
asked; did the manufacturing process put the workers in harm’s way? Did it continue to
create waste or polluted the environment? And at the end of its use could it be recycled?
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood, a renewable resource, was considered
universally to be a highly sustainable building material (A smart guide to sustainable
furniture & FSC-certified products, 2008).
“Cradle-to-cradle was a method used to minimize the environmental impact of products
by employing sustainable production, operation, and disposal practices and aimed to
incorporate social responsibility into product development”.
Since wood was highly recyclable material, in addition to its other sustainable attributes,
the cradle-to-cradle concept could be achieved with proper product development,
manufacturing, use and after-use.

17
 CHAPTER 3

DESIGN
3.1 Design of Main frame
Mainframe is main structure where the all moving plywood moves in this platform and
motor is attached in this platform.
Length: 610mm
Breath: 457mm
Height: 87mm

Figure 3.1.1 TOP VIEW OF MAIN FRAME

Figure 3.1.2 SIDE VIEW MAIN FRAME

3.2 Design of Moving Plywood

Plywood was cut in the shape of rectangle with
thickness 6mm and this process repeated thrice
with same dimension. In which two plywood
used as side plywood which slide and remain
one plywood is used for moving up and down.
Length: 305mm
Breath: 457 mm
Thickness: 6mm

Figure 3.2.1 MOVING PLYWOOD

18
19
Figure 3.2.2. Parts name and its quantity
20
Figure 3.2.3 Parts list and its design
Figure (a) FRONT VIEW Figure (b) (EXTENDED)

Figure (c) TOP PANEL Figure (d) (EXTENDED)

Figure (e) INCLINED VIEW Figure (f) (EXTENDED)

Figure 3.2.4 DIFFERENT VIEWS

21
 CHAPTER 4

FABRICATION
4.1 List of components
 PLYWOOD
 RACK AND PINION
 DC MOTOR
 RESISORS
 LED’S
 TRANSISTOR BC547
 TOGGLE SWITCH (push to on switch)
 PMM DC MOTOR
 CAPACITOR
 DIODE IN4007
 LIMIT SWITCH
 RELAY 12V SPDT
 ARDUINO MEGA MICROCONTROLLER
 ALUMINIUM CHANNELS
 TRANSFORMER
 STRIPE WIRE
 PCB
 VOLTAGE REGULATOR WITH HEAT SINK

4.1.1 PLYWOOD
Plywood is an engineered wood sheet material made up of fine layers or flimsy strands of
wood veneers attached together placing wood grains 90 degrees to one another. It is one
type of manufactured board which can be described as a mixture of Medium Density
Fiber board (MDF) and Chip Board (Particle Board). It is a complex material and
attaches resin and fiber sheets of wood.

In our universal table project we used the hardwood ply board. This Plywood is made
from angiosperms. This type of plywood is identified by its firmness, hardness on
surface, inflexibility, resistance quality. This can be used to bear heavy weight.

4.1.2 RACK AND PINION

A rack and pinion is a type of linear actuator that comprises a circular gear (the pinion)
engaging a linear gear (the rack), which operate to translate rotational motion into linear
motion. Driving the pinion into rotation causes the rack to be driven linearly. Driving the
rack linearly will cause the pinion to be driven into a rotation.

22
 SPECIFICATION OF PINION
Outer most dia.( Including teeth) 40mm
Shaft dia. (Circular) 6mm
Coupling shaft dia. (For reducer) 1.5mm
Number of teeth 25

Figure 4.1.2.1 pinion gear

SPECIFICATION OF
RACK
Length 146mm

Height 8mm

Width 8mm Figure 4.1.2.2 rackgear

Material Plastic

4.1.3 DC MOTOR:

A DC motor is any of a class of rotary electrical motors that converts direct current
electrical energy into mechanical energy. The most common types rely on the forces
produced by magnetic fields. Nearly all types of DC motors have some internal
mechanism, either electromechanical or electronic, to periodically change the direction of
current in part of the motor.

Figure 4.1.3 Johnsons motor

JOHNSON GEARED MOTOR:

In our prototype total five DC motors are used, the driven or operated components by DC
motors are given below:

23
  All four legs
 Centre plywood
A Johnson Geared motor is a simple DC motor with gear box attached to the shaft of the
motor which is mechanically commutated electric motor powered from direct current
(DC).

Specification:

 10RPM 12V DC motors with Metal Gearbox and Metal Gears

 18000 RPM base motor
 6mm Diameter shaft with M3 thread hole
 Gearbox diameter 37 mm.
 Motor Diameter 28.5 mm
 Length 63 mm without shaft
 Shaft length 30mm
 180gm weight
 120kgcm Holding Torque
 No-load current = 800 mA, Load current = upto 7.5 A(Max)
 Recommended to be used with DC Motor Driver 20A or Dual DC Motor Driver
20A

4.1.4 TRANSFORMER:

A transformer is a power converter that transfers electrical energy from one circuit to
another through inductively coupled conductors—the transformer's coils. A varying
current in the first or primary winding creates a varying magnetic flux in the
transformer's core and thus a varying magnetic field through the secondary winding. This
varying magnetic field induces a varying electromotive force (EMF), or "voltage", in the
secondary winding. This effect is called inductive coupling.

Figure 4.1.4 12-0-12 CENTRE TAPPED TRANSFORMER

24
 Table4.1.4: Transformer Terminal Description

12-0-12 center tapped transformer specifications

 Step-down Centre tapped Transformer
 Input Voltage: 220V AC at 50Hz
 Output Voltage: 24V, 12V or 0V
 Output Current: 1A
 Vertical mount type
 Low cost and small package

4.1.5 ALUMINIUM CHANNELS

Aluminum Channel is a structural metal that has many different applications across
several industries, especially the transportation and space industry because of its light
weight. It is a common building and construction material and is corrosion resistant.
4.1.6 ARDUINO MEGA MICROCONTROLLER
The Roboduino ADK is a microcontroller board based on the ATmega2560 (datasheet).
It has a USB host interface to connect with Android based phones, based on the
MAX3421e IC. It has 54 digital input/output pins (of which 15 can be used as PWM
outputs), 16 analog inputs, 4 UARTs (hardware serial ports), a 16 MHz crystal oscillator,
a USB connection, a power jack, an ICSP header, and a reset button.

It is compatible with Android's Accessory Development Kit examples. It has 54 digital

input/output pins (of which 14 can be used as PWM outputs), 16 analog inputs, 4 UARTs
(hardware serial ports), a 16 MHz crystal oscillator, a USB connection, a power jack, an
ICSP header, and a reset button.

25
The ADK is based on the Mega 2560. Plus, it has an USB Host circuit that enable this
board to communicate with USB Devices, and give them power supply.

Additional features coming with the R3 version are: 1.0 pinout: added SDA and SCL pins
for TWI communication placed near to the AREF pin and two other new pins placed near
to the RESET pin, the IOREF that allow the shields to adapt to the voltage provided from
the board and the second one is a not connected pin, that is reserved for future purposes.
Stronger RESET circuit. The product is sold in its retail packaging.

Figure 4.1.6 Arduino Mega 2560 controller

Specifications:
 Microcontroller: ATmega2560
 Operating Voltage: 5V
 Input Voltage (recommended): 9V
 Input Voltage (limit): 7-18V
 Digital I/O Pins: 54
 PWM Digital I/O Pins: 14
 Analog Input Pins: 16
 DC Current per I/O Pin: 40 mA
 DC Current for 3.3V Pin: 50 mA
 Flash Memory: 256 KB
 Flash Memory for Bootloader: 8 KB
 SRAM: 8 KB
 EEPROM: 4 KB
 Clock Speed: 16 MHz

4.1.7 RELAY 12V SPDT

A relay is an electrically operated switch. It consists of a set of input terminals for a
single or multiple control signals, and a set of operating contact terminals. The switch
may have any number of contacts in multiple contact forms, such as make contacts, break
contacts, or combinations thereof.
Relays are used where it is necessary to control a circuit by an independent low-power
signal, or where several circuits must be controlled by one signal. Relays were first used
26
in long-distance telegraph circuits as signal repeaters: they refresh the signal coming in
from one circuit by transmitting it on another circuit. Relays were used extensively in
telephone exchanges and early computers to perform logical operations.
SPDT (Single-Pole Double-Throw) relays have a single set of Form C, break before
make or transfer contacts. That is, a common terminal connects to either of two others,
never connecting to both at the same time. Including two for the coil, such a relay has a
total of five terminals.

Figure 4.1.7 SPDT switch

These are high quality Single Pole - Double Throw (SPDT) sealed 12V Sugar Cube
relays. Use them to switch high voltage (240AC), and/or high current devices (7A).
Specification:
 12V DC SPDT Relay
 Rated up to 7A @240VAC

4.1.8 LIMIT SWITCH

Limit switch is a switch operated by the motion of a machine part or presence of an
object. They are used for controlling machinery as part of a control system, as a safety
interlocks, or to count objects passing a point. A limit switch is an electromechanical
device that consists of an actuator mechanically linked to a set of contacts. When an
object comes into contact with the actuator, the device operates the contacts to make or
break an electrical circuit.

Figure 4.1.8 limit switch

4.1.9 DIODE IN4007

A diode is a two-terminal electronic component that conducts current primarily in one
direction (asymmetric conductance); it has low (ideally zero) resistance in one direction,
and high (ideally infinite) resistance in the other. A diode vacuum tube or thermionic
diode is a vacuum tube with two electrodes, a heated cathode and a plate, in which
electrons can flow in only one direction, from cathode to plate. A semiconductor diode,

27
the most commonly used type today, is a crystalline piece of semiconductor material with
a p–n junction connected to two electrical terminals.

Figure 4.1.9 Diodes

A diode is a device which allows current flow through only one direction. That is the
current should always flow from the Anode to cathode. The cathode terminal can be
identified by using a grey bar as shown in the picture above.
Table 4.1.9 Pin Configuration:

For 1N4007 Diode, the maximum current carrying capacity is 1A it withstands peaks up
to 30A. Hence we can use this in circuits that are designed for less than 1A. The reverse
current is 5uA which is negligible. The power dissipation of this diode is 3W.

Specification:
 Average forward current is 1A
 Non-repetitive Peak current is 30A
 Reverse current is 5uA.
 Peak repetitive Reverse voltage is 1000V
 Power dissipation 3W
 Available in DO-41 Package

4.1.10 CAPACITOR
A capacitor is a device that stores electrical energy in an electric field. It is a passive
electronic component with two terminals.
The effect of a capacitor is known as capacitance. While some capacitance exists between
any two electrical conductors in proximity in a circuit, a capacitor is a component
designed to add capacitance to a circuit. The capacitor was originally known as a
condenser or compensator. This name and its cognates are still widely used in many

28
languages, but rarely in English, one notable exception being condenser microphones,
also called capacitor microphones.

Figure 4.1.10 Capacitor

Specifications:
 1000µF
 50V
 ±20% Tolerance
 +105°C Max Temperature
 Radial Electrolytic Capacitor

4.1.11 PMM DC MOTOR:

A Permanent Magnet Motor (PMM) is a motor that uses permanent magnets. This type of
motor includes brush DC motors and brushless DC motors.
This motor comes with a current controlled drive for Industrial grade high torque dc
motor with various types of input signals. It supports UART/I2C/PPM/Analog signals
directly for speed and direction control. The drive even works well at very low speeds.
The Motor is Industrial grade 10RPM high torque motor with a massive torque of
120kgcm in small size. The motor has a metal gearbox with all high quality metal gears
and has a off-centered shaft.

Figure 4.1.11 PMM DC motor

Specification:
 10RPM 12V DC motors with Metal Gearbox and Metal Gears
 18000 RPM base motor
 6mm Diameter shaft with M3 thread hole
 Gearbox diameter 37 mm.
 Motor Diameter 28.5 mm

29
  Length 63 mm without shaft
 Shaft length 30mm
 180gm weight
 120kgcm Holding Torque
 No-load current = 800 mA, Load current = upto 7.5 A(Max)

4.1.12 TOGGLE SWITCH (push to on switch)

The toggle switch is a type of electrical switch that is identified by the presence of handle
or lever that makes it possible to control the flow of electric current/signal from a power
supply to a device or within a device.
It is a hinged switch that can assume either of two positions ie. ON or OFF. It is used to
switch between two conditions in a circuit.
Toggle Switches employ rocker-type contact mechanism.
Being easy in operation, toggle switch can be used in a number of different applications,
both in commercial and in house hold appliances.
It is housed in an anti- tracking molded case for dust free performance, thus last for many
years before being replaced.
To protect from false switching, a flip cover is used as switch guard.

4.1.13 TRANSISTOR BC547

The semiconductor device like a transistor is one kind of switch which controls
electrically. It consists of three terminals like an i/p, o/p & a control line. These are
named as the emitter (E), collector(C) and base (B). A transistor works like a switch as
well as an amplifier to convert the waves from audio to electronic. Transistors are smaller
in size, long life and can operate with low voltage supplies. The first transistor was
designed with Ge (germanium). In modern electronics, it is the basic building block and
used in various electrical and electronic systems. This article discusses an overview of
BC547 transistor working and its applications.
The BC547 transistor is an NPN transistor. A transistor is nothing but the transfer of
resistance which is used for amplifying the current. A small current of the base terminal
of this transistor will control the large current of emitter and base terminals. The main
function of this transistor is to amplify as well as switching purposes. The maximum gain
current of this transistor is 800A.

30
 Figure 4.1.13 Transistor

Table 4.1.13 Pin configuration:

Specification:
 Bi-Polar NPN Transistor
 DC Current Gain (hFE) is 800 maximum
 Continuous Collector current (IC) is 100mA
 Emitter Base Voltage (VBE) is 6V
 Base Current(IB) is 5mA maximum
 Available in To-92 Package

4.1.14 LED’S
A light-emitting diode (LED) is a semiconductor light source that emits light when
current flows through it. Electrons in the semiconductor recombine with electron holes,
releasing energy in the form of photons. The color of the light (corresponding to the
energy of the photons) is determined by the energy required for electrons to cross the

31
band gap of the semiconductor. White light is obtained by using multiple semiconductors
or a layer of light-emitting phosphor on the semiconductor device.

Figure 4.1.14 Light-emitting diode (LED)

4.1.15 RESISTORS:
Resistor is an electrical component that reduces the electric current.
The resistor's ability to reduce the current is called resistance and is measured in units of
ohms (symbol: Ω).
If we make an analogy to water flow through pipes, the resistor is a thin pipe that reduces
the water flow.
There are two types resistor we used in our project are:
 1K resistor
 10K resistor

4.1.16 STRIP WIRE

A wire stripper is a portable handheld tool used by workers, especially electricians, for
removing the protective coating of an electric wire in order to replace or repair the wire.
It is also capable of stripping the end portions of an electric wire in order to connect them
to other wires or to terminals

4.1.17 PCB
A printed circuit board (PCB) mechanically supports and electrically
connects electrical or electronic components using conductive tracks, pads and other
features etched from one or more sheet layers of copper laminated onto and/or between
sheet layers of a non-conductive substrate. Components are generally soldered onto the
PCB to both electrically connect and mechanically fasten them to it.
Printed circuit boards are used in all but the simplest electronic products. They are also
used in some electrical products, such as passive switch boxes.

32
 4.1.18 VOLTAGE REGULATOR WITH HEAT SNIK
A heat sink is a piece of metal engineered to dissipate the maximum thermal energy into
the ambient surroundings. It assists a component to remain below its maximum operating
junction temperature by drawing this energy away, thereby preventing damage through
excessive temperatures. All electronic components dissipate heat, and usually their
package (body) is sufficient to dissipate it into the surroundings, however voltage
regulators such as a 7805, 7812, LM317T, require assistance if they are to operate to their
extreme limits.

33
4.2 COST ANALYSIS:
NO. OF QUANTITY
PRODUCT COST
USED
PLYWOOD _ 800/-
RACK 7 315/-
PINION 7 203/-
DC MOTOR 5 2100/-
RESISORS 20
TRANSISTOR BC547 15
TOGGLE SWITCH (push to
8
on switch)
PMM DC MOTOR 2 1800/-
CAPACITOR 4 48/-
DIODE IN4007 8 40/-
LIMIT SWITCH 4
RELAY 12V SPDT 12 240/-
ARDUINO MEGA
1 3664/-
MICROCONTROLLER
ALUMINIUM CHANNELS _ 300/-
TRANSFORMER 1 200/-
STRIPE WIRE _
VOLTAGE REGULATOR
1
WITH HEAT SNIK
MACHINERY & TOOLS
_ 500/-
CHARGES
MISCELLANEOUS _ 2000/-
ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT
DESIGN AND
_ 1000/-
PROGRAMMING
CHARGES
TOTAL

34
4.3 Fabrication process

Analysis of problems

Based on problem, making an appropriate and suitable design of the

components and the table.

Fixing the appropriate dimensions of the

table and the component.

Selection of suitable material for Selection of suitable motors and

table and its legs. channels of appropriate dimensions.

Based on the design, cutting of plywood of desired dimensions.

Fixing of the channels in the fixing of the motors and gears

plywood so that the plywood and racks for the motions of the
would easily move between them. plywood and legs.

Aligning the different parts and meshing the gears properly.

Making the assembly according to the design.

Hence, the project is complete.

Figure 4.3 Process flow diagram of fabrication

35
 CHAPTER 5

TESTING AND ANALYSIS

After fabrication, we have tested our project under variable conditions and measure the
tensions and forces and finally analyses the safe limit and working conditions which are
as follows
STypes of tests performed on the project:

WORKING LIMIT OF VARIOUS COMPONENTS

Property

 Load limit: 20KG

 Load limit at extended position: 8KG
 Voltage rating: 12V +/- 1V
 Power rating: 12W
 Torque rating: 11.7 kg-cm

EFFECTIVE LOAD LIMITS:

 Load limit while uplifting and changing height : 4 Kg

 Load bearable by the gears and racks until failure: 5.5 kg

36
 CHAPTER 6

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

6.1 Result
The project “Design and Fabrication of Universal Table” has been fabricated and final
tested under given load and time. As a result of this testing we conclude that the
dimensions, which are calculated under given loads in the design part, of the components
used in this project are safe. The selected motors and gear assemblies are also safe and
supported.

6.2 Discussion
The project “Design and Fabrication of Universal Table” is a table which is used as a
multipurpose table which is fully automatic and controlled via different switches assigned
with different operation of the table. Basically it uses rack and pinion gear to provide
different motion to the table such as the extension of surface, changing its orientation and
adjusting its height as well.

In this project our main concern is about the user who’s gone use this table that’s why we
made it ergonomic so that the person who having the sufferings such as spondylitis will
not suffer more will reading, studying and etc.

37
 CHAPTER 7

CONCLUSION

This Universal Table is a multipurpose table which can able to extend itself with
automation. This is done via number of motors which are attached with this table to
control every single motion of the table just by pushing the button which is assigned for
the particular task. It can also adjust its height according to the need of an individual. By
this a user can lift up the surface of the table effortlessly which make this product
ergonomic. This is basically designed to use as a single table for may uses rather than
buying different table for different purposes. This table is also useful for the patients who
are suffering from spondylitis as this table is able to tilt itself according to the need of the
user and assist them while studying, writing or reading.

Nowadays, people tend to move to metropolises for their greater employment

opportunities and progressive lifestyles. This trend towards urbanization causes cities to
have relatively less available free space. This provides a good opportunity for the
development of multipurpose space saving table. Multipurpose table is an innovative
product that has much opportunity for future development, and a huge potential market.
Multipurpose furniture provides small properties with greater space and multiple
functions. Furthermore, multipurpose table is transformable space saving furniture can be
made more effective and efficient were its designers to cooperate with architects and
engineers in its manufacture. This table is for the persons who want one table for many
uses and these tables is also very useful for the medical purposes too and provide more
space for the person and also the comfort for the patients who have serious suffering
while doing the stuffs.

38
 CHAPTER 8

FUTURE SCOPE
8.1 INTRODUCTION
Transformable space saving furniture which uses less space and provides dual functions
is also called dual-function furniture. It has a large potential market in large cities, such
as Beijing (China), New Delhi and Mumbai (India) and New York (the US). These large
cities have a lot of features in common. They have large populations, large gaps between
rich and poor and a large portion of small space apartments. These features provide a
good opportunity for the development of transformable space saving furniture.
Transformable space saving furniture is designed based on the concept that the furniture’s
design must involve at least two forms of appearance and function. It should have both an
ordinary appearance and transformed appearance. A simple example of function would
be that you can transform your sofa into a queen-sized bed for a guest to sleep on when
staying overnight. This saves the owner time, space and money. There are many kinds of
transformable space saving furniture, such as coffee tables which convert into dining
tables and bookshelves which transform into beds.
Transformable space saving furniture is a revolution and innovation. For people who
have small budgets for furniture expenditure and who live in limited spaces,
transformable space saving furniture might be their only option. One of the challenges for
designers of transformable space saving furniture is that the furniture needs to be both
aesthetic and functional.
Most people who live in small apartments in large cities are from the middle or lower
classes; they might either be young people or new employees. These people often lack
sufficient funds to pay for or mortgage large apartments or fancy furniture.
The appearance, price and function of transformable space saving furniture makes it the
best option for such people. In this report, I am going to analyze transformable space
saving furniture both mechanically and financially. Mechanically, the important aspects
of transformable space saving furniture will be described in detail, and some popular
designs will be provided. To cover this furniture’s financial aspects, I will analyze some
important markets for this product based on numerical data. Moreover, the cost and the
price of the transformable space saving furniture will be compared with normal furniture
8.2 DESIGN
There are many kinds of classic transformable space saving furniture designs from which
customers might choose. In general, these include space saving beds and tables, and other
space saving furniture. Space saving beds and tables have more functional properties than
any other types of furniture because they are the most frequently used furnishings.
These furniture types are useful for conserving a room’s space. In this report, I am going
to focus on beds, tables and chairs as examples.

39
 8.2.1 Space Saving Beds
Space saving bed can be divided into two categories, regular beds and bunk beds. A
regular space saving bed might be a shelf; desk; or combined bed and desk, in which the
desk portion is capable of being transformed into a bed. The bed size can be various
depending on the customer’s request.
Figure 1 gives an example of a shelf, a desk and a single bed. Figure 1 shows how the
desk mode of the piece, employed for study or working at home, can be transformed into
a queen-sized bed when the owner wishes to sleep. One of the most important parts of
this design is that the furniture’s owners do not need to move items from the desk when
transforming it into a bed, as shown in Figure 2. This design helps owners to utilize the
furniture efficiently and expediently. The most important function of this design is that it
increases the available space of the room as compared with when the room houses a
regular bed and desk. This kind of design is very helpful for people who live in small
apartments, and it is also a good choice for small guest rooms.

Figure 8.2.1.1 Examples of space saving furniture: A desk and a bed

Figure8.2.1.2. Feature of the design

Bunk beds are designed mainly for school dormitories or families who have more
than one child. This kind of bed is usually formed from two single size beds and a
ladder. As shown in Figure 3, both beds can be incorporated into a frame, so that

40
 more space is made available for the children to use or play in. The ladder can easily
be folded kept on the top bed when folding the bed back into the frame. The bed is
also very easy to open out, so that children can do so by themselves. This design is a
good choice for families who live in apartments, in cases where each child does not
have his/her own room.

Figure8.2.1.3. Bunk beds

8.2.2 Space Saving Tables

Tables have a variety of functions. People usually chose tables that fit the size of their
dining rooms. However, sometimes a table may not be large enough to entertain extra
guests, or take up too much space for small families or in small apartments. Space saving
tables can solve this problem due to their transformable features.
In Figure 4 depicts a space saving table that can be utilized as a lamp table when it is not
needed, and can also be used as a large dining room table when guests are visiting. This
table has five extension stages and can be extended up to 9.5 feet long. The main impact
of this design is its space saving ability when it is not in use, and its provision of a large
entertaining space when the owner needs a dining room table. Figure 5 shows the fully
extended version of a transformable space saving table. It has a very nice design for
people who live in apartments. It is also a choice for people who already have regular
dining room tables but do not often receive guests.

41
 Figure8.2.2.1. Space saving table

Figure8.2.2.2. Extended Space saving table

Figure 6 shows another type of space saving table which can be changed to a billiard
table from a dining room table. This is a classic design of dual-function furniture.
However, since a large space is required to play billiards, this table maybe not suitable
for people living in apartments. This design is very fashionable which makes it attractive
to young people. It can also form a part of a house’s décor.

Figure8.2.2.3. A dining room table that can be turned into a billiards table

42
 Figure8.2.2.4. Space saving chairs

8.2.3 The Space Saving Chair

The space saving chair has become very popular in recent years. The main function of
this kind of chair is that it saves space when not in use. Figure 7 is one example these
chairs; the chairs as illustrated can easily be assembled and taken apart. Such chairs are
very useful for people who are in a habit of inviting friends to visit their homes. The one
in Figure 7 is a very new product designed by Dripta Roy, which he calls the “Magic
Chair”. These chairs can be assembled by fitting their parts together. However, only the
back of the saving chair is made of wood because the other materials it utilizes are easier
to assemble. In addition to its functional advantage, the space saving chair is less costly
than a regular one. The designs of space saving furniture pieces not only make them
transformable and space saving but are also aesthetically pleasing and resemble works of
art. Transformable space saving furniture is a revolution in furniture design. Since
transformable space saving furniture is new, it possesses much room for innovation in
both its design and on the future market.

8.3 ASSEMBLY HARDWARE

Special hardware required to assemble transformable space saving furniture are not
usually used on regular furniture because they have different functions. The main
functions of the special hardware are to ensure the transformable parts can be moved
smoothly and safely, and it also needs to be sufficiently sable to resist the forces involved
in its regular use.

8.3.1 Special Hardware

In the red circle of Figure 8 is one of the examples of special hardware that have been
used on transformable space saving furniture. This type of hardware is mounted on the
sides of bed frames in order to connect the shelf and bed frame. The specialty of this
hardware is the items on the shelf can be remaining in place when the shelf is moved up
or down. The shelf can also be used as legs when the bed is in use, as it shows in figure 9.

43
 Figure 8.3.1.1. Special hardware

Figure 8.3.1.2. Special hardware

Furthermore, in the red circles of Figure 10, it indicates another type of special hardware.
It is an auto-lock system which is placed between the gaps of the frame and the bed, in
order to give the entire piece of furniture a clean look. When the user wants to place the
bed back into the frame, the small handle will be automatically locked on the frame.
Because of these functions, this type of hardware not only needs to be able to facilitate
smooth assemblies and transformations, but also needs to be sufficiently stable to resist
the forces involved in its regular use.

Figure 8.3.1.3 Auto-lock system

44
 8.3.2 The Sliding System
Transformable space saving table comes in many different designs. This system is mainly
sustained by a sliding system which makes it possible for the table to be extended and
pulled back. The sliding system is usually hidden under or within the table, so that the
table still possesses a clean appearance. Figure 11 is an example of a sliding system. In
order to make the table extend as far as possible, the designer combines together
numerous sliding pieces. The table in Figure 11 can be extended from 17 inches to a
maximum of 115 inches. This provides many options for the length of the table.

Figure 8.3.2 the sliding system

8.4 APPLICATIONS AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT

Building designers can cooperate with transformable space saving furniture designers, so
that the furniture will sufficiently fit the layout of the apartment and save even more
space. Recently, an innovation project for a passive house was designed and constructed
by students of the Rosenheim University of Applied Sciences, in Germany. The building,
which can be, “Assembled and disassembled several times”, is an energy saving house
with a combination of moveable, structural and transformable furniture. This project won
second place at the Solar Decathlon Europe competition of 2010. It provides various
functions and large spaces for a two-person occupancy house. This new design not only
saves the house’s energy, but also uses all the possible space of the home’s limited area.
Transformable space saving furniture is one of the most important functions of this
passive house design. Moveable wall structures; and transformable beds, sofas, desks and
dining room tables; as well as hidden televisions and kitchenware make all of a home’s
space and furniture dual in function. Figure 8 shows a rough layout and the general idea
of this design. The red circles indicate the transformable furniture present in the house
which conserves its space and energy.

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 Figure 8.4 a simulation layout of the Ikaros Bavaria Team design

The red circle around Number 1 indicates a transformable bed which can be pulled back
into the wall frame for making more space in the bedroom. The other part of the bedroom
has a movable wall and hidden desk which are incorporated under Number 2. The
bedroom can be transferred into an office when the bed is replaced in the wall and the
desk is pulled out. Moreover, this wall can be moved toward the bed or in another
direction depending on which room requires more space. In the living room, the
kitchenware under Number 3 is beneath the surface of the kitchen island, and the
movable surface also provides additional space for cooking. Number 4 is a hidden
television which is also placed under the surface of the kitchen island, and which can be
pulled out when needed. The dining room table, designated as Number 5, is an
extendable table which can serve up to eight people. The last item is a sofa that can be
transferred into a bed for guests. With so many items of transformable furniture and
movable design, all spaces are adequately utilized in this limited area.
The main purpose of this design is to introduce an energy system innovation. (Building
from the Rosenheim University team, 2010) However, transformable space saving
furniture plays an important role in this energy saving house. This furniture makes it
possible to design the smallest possible design the area of construction. The movable wall
structure and the space saving bed and table are the key means by which two rooms can
be easily transformed into one. This saves initial costs, and the building’s energy and
space. This design is also very suitable for small area condos in large cities. It offers an
excellent opportunity for the development of transformable space saving furniture

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 8.5 THE COST AND PRICE
Based on my research, there are only a few companies which design and produce
transformable space saving furniture. These products are not yet popular or known to the
general public. The main reason for this is that the price of these products is too high for
people who live in small apartments. The price range of a queen-sized transformable bed
with a bookshelf is from $4,000 to 21,000 CAD, although a simple transformable sofa
bed costs only around $1,000 CAD. The huge price difference makes it difficult for these
new products to be successful.
Resource Furniture, as an example, is one of the leading brands of this kind of furniture.
The main material of their products is High Density Fibreboard (HDF), and all of their
products are made in Italy. These are the main reasons that their products have a very
high cost. According to David Hooper, who is a designer and a distributor for Resource
Furniture in Vancouver, the products have not been doing very well in Vancouver. He
discovered that most customers were only interested in their innovative designs, but were
not willing to spend much on them. Moreover, because of their low selling rate, the
company needed to move their showcase room from the centre of Gastown to a cheaper
townhouse on Richards Street. In my opinion, moving the company’s production factory
to a developing country would be a good way to solve this problem. The consequent
production cost would thus be much cheaper than in Italy.
There are many options companies like Resource Furniture can choose for relocating
their manufacture factory. China and South Asian countries, such as India and the
Philippines, have relatively lower labor costs and land prices, along with more regulated
markets than those of other developing countries. As Chart 1 shows, Europe is the highest
labour cost country, China is the lowest and the Philippines is the second lowest. These
countries are also the first choice for many other manufacturing companies. For example,
China has the world’s strongest manufacturing power, while its government extends
financial support to foreign manufacturing companies. Chart 1shows the labour costs of
different countries in 2008 as compared with those of the US. As we can see, the labour
costs in Europe are 33.5 times greater than those of China, which means that China’s
costs are only 3% of those of Europe. However, the new leaders of China have set the
goal of increasing 30% of the minimum wages of Chinese laborers in 2015, so the future
fixed labour costs may not be stable. (China Vs Europe - study in labour competitiveness,
2011) Taxation preference is another reason that many manufacturing companies choose
China as their first option. This is since the Chinese government will return taxes and pay
loan subsidies to foreign manufacturing companies. With these preferential policies,
foreign companies will save many additional costs.

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 Chart 8.5 a comparison of labour costs in different countries

8.6 THE IMPORTANT MARKETS

Urbanization is increasing very quickly in developing countries, including India, and
even in developed countries, like the US. Increasingly more people tend to move to the
big cities for their careers. This is a good opportunity for the development of
transformable space saving furniture in these cities. The purchasing power of a city or
country directly affects the market of transformable space saving furniture. The price of
transformable space saving furniture is from $2,000 to $24,000 US dollars, which means
that the market should have a relatively high purchasing power. Moreover, in depending
on the function of transformable space saving furniture, the target market should be cities
having a high population density. Population density is measured by dividing the
population by the total area of a city, and shows how crowded a city is. A city’s
population density will affect its average living area, and the smaller the average living
area, the better will be its market for transformable space saving furniture. In the
following paragraphs, some important markets will be analyzed.
8.6.1 The Indian Market
The total urban population of the world was not more than 250 million in 1900, less than
15 per cent of the total. The Indian urban population today is itself greater than this
number. A hundred years later, in 2000, the world's urban population had increased to
almost 2.9 billion, about 47 per cent of the total. The 21st century is therefore an urban
century and this sets it apart from the all the centuries that have gone before it. For the
first time in human history, more people will live in cities than in the countryside.
Presently the highest rates of economic growth are being witnessed in Asia, especially in
China and India, which today also have the largest rural populations, but are urbanizing
Even in other Asian countries a large number of cities are witnessing high rates of
economic growth and the growth in their urban population is also going to be higher.
A standard governmental response to Rapid City growth is to prepare comprehensive
metropolitan plans. Such plans attempt to shape the growth of a city for perhaps five to

48
twenty years, as has been done in various cities in India through the development of
“Master Plans”. Also, due to urbanization, people tend to live in smaller space
apartments. Some researchers predict that it will keep increasing in the next 30
years. This is the perfect opportunity for the development of transformable space
saving furniture. It is also a good opportunity for introducing this kind of furniture to the
Indian people, who need such products to acquire extra space. These plans typically
delineate land use in a detailed manner and attempt to freeze city structure for the
planned period. It is also typical to do physical planning for all the anticipated
infrastructure needs.
In Table 1, we can see that some Indian cities have been named the world’s top 20 cities
in terms of their population density. These cities are also the richest cities in India, with
the highest urbanization speed and with relatively high average salaries, as is shown in
Table 2. Thus, these cities are among the most suitable for the development of
transformable space saving furniture. Moreover, the average property price of a city will
also affect the market of transformable space saving furniture.

Chart 8.6(a) Indian urban populations

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Table 8.6 (a). The top 20 cities of highest population density in the world

Table 8.6(b). The top 4 highest average waged city in India

Table 8.6(c). A ranking of the average property prices of cities in India

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PLAGIARISM REPORT

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