Multi-Position Work Tables

Abstract

A compact height adjustable work station utilizes a unique combination of support arms and linkages to achieve greater strength and a greater range of tabletop height adjustment from a smaller form factor than is found anywhere in the industry. The method for adjusting the work surface height is user operated and pressure assisted whereby the user requires a minimal effort to physically lift or lower the work surface to the desired tabletop height. The pressure assist can be variably located to counterbalance different tabletop weights. For automatic counterbalancing, an elongated extensible gas spring piston-cylinder is adapted to be locked in any of its continuous range of infinite adjusted positions. Manual unclamping frees the counterbalancing gas spring for readily changed, manual tabletop height level adjustment. A mid-range level or a high tabletop level may be achieved, adjusted by unclamping and minimum manual force.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates generally to tables in the furniture field and, more specifically, to ergonomically designed office and industrial work stations. [0002] The invention provides height adjustable multiple-position worktable levels producing ergonomic benefits to workers of various size while they are performing various work tasks. Research has shown that adapting a work station to the reach and viewing needs of a worker increases productivity and reduces the occurrence of injury. [0003] The preferred embodiments of the invention are extremely economical to manufacture and readily operated by the user to achieve prompt and efficient movement of the tabletop between an infinite number of different level positions. [0004] Mechanical and hydraulic jacks have been suggested, but they often compel the user to provide exhausting hand-cranking or careful monitoring of electrical pump controls. Moreover, such jacks introduce undesirable weight and considera...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0042] The apparatus is a unique combination of cooperating support arms and linkages that maintain the work surface in a horizontal position throughout its range of motion. The unique linkage provides better strength geometry than other linkage designs and pivots about virtual centers in imaginary space to create a smaller overall form factor that takes up less space in the workplace.

Problems solved by technology

Mechanical and hydraulic jacks have been suggested, but they often compel the user to provide exhausting hand-cranking or careful monitoring of electrical pump controls.

Moreover, such jacks introduce undesirable weight and considerable extra cost, making such jack-actuation undesirable for many users.

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