Support structure for display

Abstract

A support structure for supporting a display, the support structure (10) comprising: a base element (50); an arm (14) coupled to the base element, the arm extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end; a head (18) for supporting the display in a movable manner on the arm; and a link assembly movable along the longitudinal axis. The linkage assembly includes a spring having a plurality of spring constants configured to generate a force counter to the weight of the display to hold the display in a plurality of positions relative to the surface.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 420,806, filed on October 31, 2022, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a support structure, and more particularly to a support structure for a monitor or a display. Background Art

[0004] Displays such as computer monitors, TVs, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), etc. can be mounted on an elevated support device such as a support arm, and then these elevated support devices can be fixed to a surface so that the display is held above or in front of the surface. Users generally expect to adjust the height or position of the display relative to the surface in order to obtain a better viewing angle of the display. However, many support structures for displays are difficult to adjust and require more effort from the user to adjust the height or position of the display. In addition, the construction of many support structures is both complex and expensive. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect, the present application provides a support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising: a base element; an arm connected to the base element, the arm extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end; a head for movably supporting the display on the arm; and a link assembly capable of moving along the longitudinal axis. The link assembly includes a spring having a plurality of spring constants, the spring being configured to generate a force counteracting the weight of the display to hold the display in a plurality of positions relative to the surface.

[0006] In another aspect, the present application provides a support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising: a base element; an arm coupled to the base element, the arm extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end; a head for movably supporting the display on the arm; and a link assembly. The link assembly includes: a slider capable of moving along the longitudinal axis; a first link pivotally connected to the base element and the slider; a second link pivotally connected to the slider and the head; and a spring positioned in the slider.

[0007] On the other hand, the present application provides a support structure for supporting a display, the support structure including: an arm portion extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end; and an inclined head rotatably coupled to the first end of the arm portion. The inclined head includes: a joint body movably connected to the support structure; a sweeping head received in the joint body and movable relative to the joint body; and a ring member received in the sweeping head. The ring member is movable relative to the sweeping head to adjust the display to a plurality of different tilt angles. The ring member is rotatable relative to the sweeping head to adjust the display to a plurality of different rotational angles relative to a surface. A linkage assembly is positioned in the arm portion and coupled to the inclined head. The linkage assembly is configured to rotate the inclined head when the arm portion rotates to counteract the rotation of the arm portion and maintain a consistent orientation of the inclined head.

[0008] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by considering the detailed description and the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the support structure.

[0010] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a side view of the support structure of

[0011] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a top view of the support structure of

[0012] Figure 4 is Figure 1 a partial exploded view of the support structure of

[0013] Figure 5 is Figure 1 a side perspective view of the support structure of , where a part is removed.

[0014] Figure 6 is Figure 1 a side perspective view of the support structure of , where a part is removed.

[0015] Figure 7 is Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of the support structure of taken along line 7-7 of Figure 3

[0016] Figure 8 is Figure 1 a side view of a joint of the support structure of

[0017] Figure 9 is in a first position of Figure 1Cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of the support structure Figure 3 of

[0018] Figure 10 is the support structure Figure 1 in the second position, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of Figure 3 the support structure.

[0019] Figure 11 is the support structure Figure 1 in the third position, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 of Figure 3 the support structure.

[0020] Figure 12 is Figure 1 a perspective view of the head of the support structure.

[0021] Figure 13 is Figure 12 an exploded view of the head.

[0022] Figure 14 is Figure 12 a perspective view of the head of , where part is removed.

[0023] Figure 15 is Figure 12 a side view of the head of , where part is removed.

[0024] Figure 16 is Figure 12 a side view of the head of , where part is removed.

[0025] Figure 17 is Figure 1 a perspective view of the end of the support structure.

[0026] Figure 18 is Figure 12 a side view of the head of , where part is removed.

[0027] Figure 19 is Figure 12 a side view of the head of , where part is removed. Detailed implementation mode

[0028] Before detailing any embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and component arrangement set forth in the following description or shown in the following drawings. The present invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. It should be understood that the description of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the present disclosure to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative arrangements falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, it should be understood that the language and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be regarded as restrictive.

[0029] Figure 1 Shown is a support structure 10 configured to support a display. In some embodiments, the display may be a computer monitor, screen, TV, or other display. The support structure 10 may be coupled to a base member. In some embodiments, the base member may include a horizontal base member such as a table or desk. In other embodiments, the base member may include a vertical base member such as a wall or column. The support structure 10 is movable to a plurality of positions such that the display can be positioned by a user in a preferred manner. Thus, the support structure 10 can be moved to various positions to provide a better viewing angle of the display.

[0030] Referring Figure 1 , the support structure 10 includes an arm assembly 14 and a head 18 for movably supporting the display on the arm assembly 14. The arm assembly 14 may optionally include a clamp 22 that may be fixed to the edge of a base member (e.g., a table or desk). The clamp 22 may include a C-shaped bracket 26 that defines a channel 30 for receiving the table or desk. The C-shaped bracket 26 may be integrally formed as a single structure. In other embodiments, the C-shaped bracket 26 may be formed as two or more separate structures. The clamp 22 also includes a fastener 34 that extends into the channel 30 and secures the support structure 10 to the base member. The fastener 34 includes a flange 38 having a flat surface that engages the base member. The clamp 22 may optionally include a knob (not shown) connected to the fastener 34 that allows a user to tighten or loosen the clamp 22. In other embodiments, the knob may be a screw head (not shown) capable of receiving a tool for tightening or loosening the clamp 22.

[0031] When the support structure 10 is positioned for use, the user can tighten the clamp 22 and secure the support structure 10 to the base member. In other embodiments, the clamp 22 can include an L-shaped bracket integrally formed as a single structure, or the clamp 22 can include an L-shaped bracket formed as two or more separate structures. Additionally, in other embodiments, the support structure 10 can also include other means for coupling to the base member.

[0032] Figure 2 and Figure 4 An arm assembly 14 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The following description is exemplary, and some aspects and features of the arm assembly 14 may vary in other embodiments. For example, the size, shape, number of arms, and coupling mechanism of the arm assembly 14 may vary in other embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the arm assembly 14 includes a first arm 42, a second arm 46, and a joint 50 for movably connecting the second arm 46 to the first arm 42. The clamp 22 is coupled to the first arm 42 to secure the arm assembly 14 to the base member. The head 18 is coupled to the second arm 46 to connect a display to the arm assembly 14. In other embodiments, the first arm 42 and the second arm 46 can also have various different shapes.

[0033] Referring Figure 1 and Figure 2 FIGS. 13 and 14, the first arm 42 includes a first end 54 and a second end 58 opposite the first end 54. In some embodiments, the first arm 42 can be an elongated S-shaped arm. The first end 54 of the first arm 42 is connected to the clamp 22. In some embodiments, the first arm 42 can be integrally (monolithically) formed as a single structure. In other embodiments, the first arm 42 can be formed as two or more separate structures.

[0034] Figure 2 and Figure 4 FIGS. 15 and 16 show the joint 50 disposed between the first arm 42 and the second arm 46. The joint 50 can also be referred to as a base element. The joint 50 defines a joint slot 62 for receiving a portion of a link assembly 66 described in more detail below. The joint 50 is coupled to the second end 58 of the first arm 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the joint 50 can be integrally formed as a single structure. In other embodiments, the joint 50 can be formed as two or more separate structures.

[0035] Referring Figure 1 and Figure 3, the second arm portion 46 includes a first half 70 and a second half 74. The first half 70 and the second half 74 of the second arm portion 46 are joined together to define a second arm cavity 78. In other words, the first half 70 of the second arm portion 46 defines a part of the second arm cavity 78, and the second half 70 of the second arm portion 46 defines a part of the second arm cavity 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the second arm portion 46 can be formed as two or more separate structures. In other embodiments, the second arm portion 46 can be integrally formed as a single structure.

[0036] As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the second arm portion 46 includes a first end 82 and a second end 86 opposite the first end 82. A longitudinal axis L extends through the center of the second arm portion 46 between the first end 82 and the second end 86. In some embodiments, the second arm portion 46 can be a straight arm portion or an elongated straight arm portion extending between the first end 82 and the second end 86. In some embodiments, the second arm portion 46 is coupled to the joint 50 by a joint pin 90. In other embodiments, the second arm portion 46 is coupled to the joint 50 by a fastener.

[0037] Figure 5 and Figure 7 illustrates a linkage assembly 66 according to an exemplary embodiment. The following description is exemplary, and some aspects and features of the linkage assembly 66 may vary in other embodiments. For example, the size, shape, number of links, and coupling mechanism of the linkage assembly 66 may vary in other embodiments. The linkage assembly 66 can be positioned within the second arm portion 46, and in particular, the linkage assembly 66 can be positioned within the second arm cavity 78. In other embodiments, the linkage assembly 66 can be coupled to the second arm portion 46 outside of the second arm cavity 78. The linkage assembly 66 can be capable of moving along the longitudinal axis L. The linkage assembly 66 can include a three-bar linkage assembly configured to ensure that when the second arm portion 46 rotates in the direction A ( Figure 9 ), the head 18 (and thus the display) remains "relatively parallel" or "rotationally fixed" with respect to a surface (e.g., a table or desk). More specifically, when the second arm portion 46 rotates with respect to a stationary surface such as a wall or a table, the head 18 will rotate with respect to the second arm portion 46 such that the head 18 remains in a generally constant rotational position with respect to the stationary surface. In other words, regardless of the movement of the second arm portion 46 with respect to the stationary surface, the head 18 is rotationally fixed with respect to the stationary surface such that the orientation of the display remains unchanged. As Figures 9 to 11As shown, regardless of the orientation of the second arm 46, the head assembly remains in the same rotational position. It should be understood that the position of the head 18 relative to the stationary surface may not be perfect and there may be a small degree of freedom (i.e., a tolerance range) in which the head 18 may have some rotational variation.

[0038] Continuing to refer to Figure 5 and Figure 7 , in the illustrated embodiment, the linkage assembly 66 includes a slider 94, a first link 98, and a second link 102. The slider 94, the first link 98, and the second link 102 form a three-bar linkage assembly that can keep the head 18 in a consistent orientation regardless of the angle of the second arm 46. The linkage assembly 66 may also include a spring 110 that helps to hold the position of the linkage assembly 66 in a desired position and thus hold the display in a desired position. In some embodiments, the linkage assembly 66 may optionally include an adjustment screw 106 for adjusting the spring 110. However, in other embodiments, there may be other ways to design a three-bar linkage assembly that can maintain a constant orientation of the head 18. As described in more detail below, the linkage assembly 66 is configured to generate a force that counteracts the weight of the display to hold the display in multiple positions above the surface.

[0039] Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the slider 94 includes a first portion 114 and a second portion 118. The first portion 114 and the second portion 118 are joined together to define a slider cavity 122. In other embodiments, the slider 94 may be integrally formed as a single structure. The slider 94 includes a first end 126 and a second end 130 opposite the first end 126. The slider 94 is positioned within the second arm 46. More specifically, the slider 94 is positioned within the second arm cavity 78. The slider 94 may be capable of moving along a longitudinal axis L. In other words, the slider 94 may be capable of sliding within the second arm cavity 78 along the longitudinal axis L.

[0040] As Figure 7 shown, the first link 98 is disposed between the engagement member 50 and the slider 94. The first link 98 may also be referred to as a power link. More specifically, the first link 98 is connected to the engagement member 50 by a first pin 134 and is connected to the slider 94 by a second pin 138. In other words, the first link 98 is connected to the first end 126 of the slider 94 by the second pin 138. In some embodiments, the first link 98 may be configured to transmit the force from the spring 110 to the engagement member 50.

[0041] Referring toFigure 7 and Figure 8 , the first pin 134 of the first link 98 is positioned relative to the engagement member pin 90. The engagement member axis 142 extends through the longitudinal center of the engagement member pin 90. The pin axis 146 extends through the longitudinal center of the first pin 134. In some embodiments, when the support structure 10 is viewed in cross-section, the pin axis 146 is located below and in front of the engagement member axis 142, as Figure 7 shown. In other words, compared to the engagement member axis 142, the pin axis 146 is closer to the second end 86 of the second arm portion 46 and the first arm portion 42.

[0042] As Figure 8 shown, when the engagement member 50 is viewed in a side view or cross-section of the support structure 10, the engagement member pin 90 defines a virtual circle 150 centered on the engagement member axis 142. The virtual circle 150 includes a radius measured from the engagement member axis 142 to a point away from the engagement member axis 142. In some embodiments, the radius of the virtual circle 150 can be in the range from 8 mm to 16 mm. In other embodiments, the radius of the virtual circle 150 can be in the range from 8 mm to 12 mm, from 9 mm to 13 mm, from 10 mm to 14 mm, from 11 mm to 15 mm, or from 12 mm to 16 mm. For example, the radius of the virtual circle 150 can be 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, or 16 mm.

[0043] As Figure 8 shown, the pin axis 146 can be positioned within the virtual circle 150. In other words, the position of the pin axis 146 is within the boundary of the virtual circle 150. In still other words, the pin axis 146 can not be located outside the boundary of the virtual circle 150. The position of the first pin 134 (i.e., the pin axis 146) relative to the engagement member pin 90 (i.e., the engagement member axis 142) ensures that the first link 98 is substantially parallel to the slider 94 and the second link 102. In some embodiments, positioning the first link 98 to be substantially parallel to the slider 94 and the second link 102 ensures that the link assembly 66 generates an appropriate spring force to support the second arm portion 46 for a preferred range of display weights and a preferred range of positions in the A direction.

[0044] As Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the second link 102 is disposed between the slider 94 and the head 18. More specifically, the second link 102 is connected to the slider 94 by a first pin 154 and is connected to the head 18 by a second pin 158. In particular, the second link 102 is connected to the second end 130 of the slider 94 by the first pin 154. In some embodiments, the second link 102 may be configured to convert the sliding or linear motion of the slider 94 into rotational motion of the head 18 in direction B ( Figure 9 ).

[0045] Referring Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the adjustment screw 106 is positioned within the second arm cavity 78. The adjustment screw 106 may be inserted at the first end 82 of the second arm 46. The adjustment screw 106 extends through the engagement slot 62 and the slider 94 ( Figure 5 ). The adjustment screw 106 includes a distal end 162 and an end plate 166 coupled to the distal end 162. In some embodiments, the adjustment screw 106 is configured to adjust the position of the end plate 166, thereby increasing or decreasing the length of the spring 110. Adjusting the length of the spring 110 can increase or decrease the force exerted by the spring 110 on the slider 94 and on the first link 98 pivotally connected to the engagement member 50. In some embodiments, the force exerted by the spring 110 on the slider 94 counteracts the weight of the display to hold the display in a desired position (e.g., height). In other words, when the user adjusts the support structure 10 to a desired display height, the spring 110 will help to automatically hold the display at the desired height without a locking mechanism to hold the support structure 10 in place.

[0046] The force exerted by the spring 110 on the slider 94 can be adjusted to support displays within a weight range. The linkage assembly 66 allows displays within a weight range of different weights to be supported at multiple positions above a surface.

[0047] As Figure 6 shown, the second arm 46 includes a ledge 170 extending from the sidewall of the second arm 46. The ledge 170 may extend from the sidewall of the second arm 46 into the second arm cavity 78. The end plate 166 may contact or abut the ledge 170. In some examples, the end plate 166 contacts the ledge 170 when the spring 110 is in a relaxed state; and the end plate 166 is separated from the ledge 170 when the spring 110 is in a compressed state.

[0048] Figure 6 and Figure 7Shows a spring 110 positioned within a slider 94. In some embodiments, the spring 110 can be a compression spring. The spring 110 can include multiple spring constants. In one embodiment, the spring 110 can be a dual-rate spring including two spring constants. In some embodiments, the spring 110 includes a first portion 174 having a first spring constant and a second portion 178 having a second spring constant. The first spring constant can be different from the second spring constant. In these embodiments, the first portion 174 of the spring 110 can include a first pitch, and the second portion 178 of the spring 110 can include a second pitch. The first pitch can be different from the second pitch. In other embodiments, the spring 110 can include more than two spring constants, such as three, four, or five spring constants.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 174 of the spring 110 can be adjacent to the first end 126 of the slider 94, while the second portion 178 of the spring 110 can be adjacent to the second end 130 of the slider 94. In other embodiments, the second portion 178 of the spring 110 can be adjacent to the first end 126 of the slider 94, while the first portion 174 of the spring 110 can be adjacent to the second end 130 of the slider 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 174 includes a first pitch, and the second portion 178 includes a second pitch, wherein the first pitch is less than the second pitch. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 174 includes a first spring constant, and the second portion 178 includes a second spring constant, wherein the first spring constant is less than the second spring constant. In some embodiments, the multiple spring constants of the spring 110 can allow for an accurate or gradual application of force to the slider 94 to support a display within a weight range, as compared to existing springs using a single spring constant.

[0050] As Figures 9 to 11 shown, in operation, the arm assembly 14 can rotate to multiple positions along direction A (and in the reverse direction), and in particular, the second arm portion 46 can rotate to multiple positions along direction A (and in the reverse direction). Specifically, the second arm portion 46 can rotate about the engagement axis 142. In some embodiments, the second arm portion 46 can be movable to a top position ( Figure 9 ), a middle position ( Figure 10 ), and a bottom position ( Figure 11 ), or multiple other intermediate positions. The linkage assembly 66 is configured to ensure that the head 18 connected to the display remains rotationally fixed relative to a surface (e.g., a table) such that the position of the display remains consistent for all positions of the second arm portion 46. More specifically, a three-bar linkage assembly including a slider 94, a first link 98, and a second link 102 converts linear motion along a longitudinal axis L into rotational motion of the head 18 along direction B (Figure 9 ) the rotational movement. The adjusting screw 106 can adjust the position of the end plate 166 within the slider 94, thereby adjusting the compression of the spring 110 to accommodate monitors within a weight range, including curved monitors, whose center of gravity is shifted further forward compared to flat monitors. The linkage assembly 66 ensures that the arm assembly 14 generates sufficient force to keep the monitor above the surface at all positions along direction A. For example, the linkage assembly 66 ensures that when the monitor is in the bottom position ( Figure 11 ), the arm assembly 14 does not bounce up (i.e., generate a large amount of force), and when the monitor is in the top position ( Figure 9 ), the arm assembly 14 does not sag (i.e., generate insufficient force).

[0051] Figure 12 and Figure 14 shows an exemplary head 18 for movably supporting a monitor on a support structure 10. In particular, the head 18 is configured to movably support the monitor on the arm assembly 14. The head 18 is pivotally connected to the distal end of the second arm portion 46. The head 18 may also be referred to as a mounting head or a tilt head. The head 18 includes a joint body 182, a pan head 186, a ring member 190, and a tilt adjustment screw 194. As described in more detail below, the head 18 is configured to adjust the tilt of the monitor to multiple tilt angles, and the head 18 is configured to adjust the pan portion of the monitor relative to the surface to multiple pan angles.

[0052] Referring to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the joint body 182 includes a first portion 198 and a second portion 202. The first portion 198 and the second portion 202 are coupled together to define a joint body cavity 206. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 198 and the second portion 202 may be coupled together by fasteners 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the joint body 182 may be formed as two or more separate structures. In other embodiments, the joint body 182 may be integrally formed as a single structure. The joint body 182 is coupled to the arm assembly 14 by a joint body pin 214, and in particular, the joint body 182 is coupled to the second arm portion 46 by a joint body pin 214.

[0053] Continuing to refer to Figure 12 and Figure 14 , the joint body 182 is connected to the second link 102. More specifically, the second pin 158 of the second link 102 pivotally connects the joint body 182 to the linkage assembly 66. The joint body 182 is configured such that when the second arm portion 46 is moved along direction A ( Figure 9)When adjusted to multiple positions, the engaging member body 182 rotates in the B direction as the sliding member 94 slides or moves along the longitudinal axis L. The body engaging member 182 and the link assembly 66 together can convert the linear motion of the link assembly 66 into the rotational motion of the head 182. This can be automatically accomplished by the movement of the second arm portion 64 without further intervention by the operator to adjust the head 18. This can be achieved by using a four-bar link assembly or a three-bar link assembly to help automatically impart the rotational motion of the head 18 to counteract the rotational motion of the second arm portion 64. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the link assembly 66 and the engaging member body 182 can be a scotch yoke mechanism or a reverse scotch yoke mechanism such that the linear motion of the link assembly 66 is converted into the rotational motion of the engaging member body 182. Similarly, the engaging member body 182 and the link assembly 66 can be a sliding crank link that is capable of converting the linear motion of the link assembly 66 into the rotational motion of the head 18. However, there can be other types of mechanisms that can cause the head 18 to rotate automatically to maintain a consistent orientation relative to a stationary surface such as a wall or a table.

[0054] Referring to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the sweeping head 186 includes a first portion 218 and a second portion 222. The first portion 218 and the second portion 222 of the sweeping head 186 are coupled together to define a sweeping head passage 226. The first portion 218 and the second portion 222 of the sweeping head 186 are coupled together by fasteners 230. In the illustrated embodiment, the sweeping head 186 can be formed as two or more separate structures. In other embodiments, the sweeping head 186 can be integrally formed as a single structure.

[0055] Continuing to refer to Figure 15 and Figure 16, the sweeping head 186 includes a first end or top end 234, a second end or bottom end 238, a first surface 242, and a second surface 246. Both the first portion 218 and the second portion 222 of the sweeping head 186 form part of the top end 234, the bottom end 238, the first surface 242, and the second surface 246. The sweeping head channel 226 extends between the top end 234 and the bottom end 238 and also extends between the first surface 242 and the second surface 246. The width between the first surface 242 and the second surface 246 (i.e., the lateral width between the first surface 242 and the second surface 246 measured across the sweeping head channel 226) can be measured. In some embodiments, the sweeping head channel 226 has a variable width between the top end 234 and the bottom end 238. In some embodiments, the sweeping head channel 226 includes a first width adjacent to the top end 234 and a second width adjacent to the bottom end 238. The second width of the sweeping head channel 226 is greater than the first width of the sweeping head channel 226. In operation, the sweeping head 186 is movably received in the engagement member body 182. The sweeping head 186 rotates relative to the engagement member body. The sweeping head 186 can be rotated within the engagement member body 182 to multiple rotational positions.

[0056] Referring to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , the annular member 190 can be a D-shaped annular member. In other embodiments, the annular member 190 can be other shapes. The annular member 190 includes a mounting surface 250 configured to support a display. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting surface 250 includes a diamond shape. In other embodiments, the mounting surface 250 can include other shapes suitable for supporting a display. The annular member 190 is movably received in the sweeping head channel 226 to adjust the tilt of the display to multiple tilt angles. The annular member 190 can move along the C direction ( Figure 15 and Figure 16 ) to multiple tilt angles. In addition, the annular member 190 can rotate relative to the engagement member body 182 with the sweeping head 186 along the D direction ( Figure 17 ) to multiple rotational positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the annular member 190 is integrally formed as a single structure. In other embodiments, the annular member 190 can be formed as two or more separate structures.

[0057] As Figure 18 and Figure 19As shown, the sweeping head 186 defines a recess 254 for receiving the tilt adjustment screw 194. The tilt adjustment screw 194 may also be referred to as a tilt adjustment fastener. The tilt adjustment screw 194 is threadably coupled to the sweeping head 186. The tilt adjustment screw 194 contacts the annular member 190. In operation, when the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the first position, the tilt adjustment screw 194 positions the annular member 190 closer to the first surface 242 to increase the contact between the annular member 190 and the first surface 242 of the sweeping head 186. In some embodiments, the tilt adjustment screw 194 is fully received in the recess 254 in the first position. In other words, when the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the first position, the annular member 190 is positioned in the sweeping head channel 226 in a first configuration. The annular member 190 is capable of moving to multiple tilt angles relative to the sweeping head 186 and the engagement member body 182. When the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the first position, the annular member 190 moves relative to the sweeping head 186 under the action of a first frictional force.

[0058] Continuing to refer to Figure 18 and Figure 19 , when the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the second position, the tilt adjustment screw 194 positions the annular member 190 closer to the second surface 246 to increase the contact between the annular member 190 and the second surface 246 of the sweeping head 186. In some embodiments, the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in a retracted position relative to the sweeping head 186 while the tilt adjustment screw 194 remains coupled to the sweeping head 186 in the second position. In other words, when the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the second position, the annular member 190 is positioned in the sweeping head channel 226 in a second configuration. The annular member 190 is capable of moving to multiple tilt angles relative to the sweeping head 186 and the engagement member body 182. When the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the second position, the annular member 190 moves relative to the sweeping head 186 under the action of a second frictional force. The second frictional force is greater than the first frictional force.

[0059] Representative features

[0060] The representative features are listed in the following clauses, and these representative features may exist alone or in any combination with one or more features disclosed in the text of the specification and / or the drawings.

[0061] (1) A support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising: a base element; an arm rotatably coupled to the base element, the arm defining a longitudinal axis extending between a first end of the arm and a second end of the arm; a head for movably supporting the display on the arm; and a linkage assembly movable along the longitudinal axis, the linkage assembly including a spring having a plurality of spring constants, the spring configured to generate a force against the weight of the display to hold the display in a plurality of positions relative to a surface.

[0062] (2) The support structure according to (1), wherein the linkage assembly is configured to maintain a consistent orientation of the head relative to the surface when the arm is adjusted to the plurality of positions.

[0063] (3) The support structure according to (1), wherein the linkage assembly includes a slider, a first link, and a second link, the first link pivotally connected to the base element and the slider, and the second link pivotally connected to the slider and the head.

[0064] (4) The support structure according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the spring is positioned in the slider.

[0065] (5) The support structure according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the spring is configured to apply a force to the slider against the weight of the display to automatically hold the display above the surface.

[0066] (6) The support structure according to (1), wherein the spring includes a first portion having a first spring constant and a second portion having a second spring constant greater than the first spring constant, and wherein the second spring constant is positioned closer to the head than the first spring constant.

[0067] (7) The support structure according to (1), wherein the head includes a mating body movably connected to the arm, the mating body pivotally connected to the linkage assembly.

[0068] (8) The support structure according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the mating body and the linkage assembly are configured to convert a linear motion of the linkage assembly into a rotational motion of the mating body.

[0069] (9) The support structure according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the head further includes a sweeping head and an annular member, the sweeping head is movably received in the engaging member body, and the annular member movably supports the display on the arm.

[0070] (10) The support structure according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the annular member is capable of sliding within the sweeping head to adjust the tilt of the display, and wherein the sweeping head is capable of rotating relative to the engaging member body to adjust the sweeping angle of the display.

[0071] (11) A support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising: a base element; an arm coupled to the base element, the arm extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end; a head for movably supporting the display on the arm; and a linkage assembly including a slider, a first link, a second link, and a spring, the slider being capable of moving along the longitudinal axis, the first link being pivotally connected to the base element and the slider, the second link being pivotally connected to the slider and the head, and the spring being positioned within the slider.

[0072] (12) The support structure according to (11), wherein the linkage assembly is configured to automatically maintain a consistent orientation of the head relative to a surface when the arm is adjusted to the plurality of positions.

[0073] (13) The support structure according to any one of (11) to (12), wherein the spring applies a force to the slider to counteract the weight of the display, thereby automatically holding the display above the surface.

[0074] (14) The support structure according to (11), wherein the head includes an engaging member body pivotally connected to the second link, and wherein the engaging member body and the linkage assembly are configured to convert the linear motion of the linkage assembly into rotational motion of the engaging member body.

[0075] (15) The support structure according to (11), wherein the spring includes a first portion having a first spring constant and includes a second portion having a second spring constant greater than the first spring constant, and wherein the second spring constant is positioned closer to the head than the first spring constant.

[0076] (16) A support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising: an arm extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end; a tilt head rotatably coupled to the first end of the arm, the tilt head including a joint body, a sweep head, and a ring member, the joint body being movably connected to the support structure, the sweep head being received in the joint body and being movable relative to the joint body, the ring member being received in the sweep head, the ring member being movable with the sweep head to adjust the display to a plurality of different tilt angles, the ring member being rotatable relative to the sweep head to adjust the display to a plurality of different rotation angles relative to a surface; and a link assembly positioned in the arm and coupled to the tilt head, the link assembly being configured to rotate the tilt head when the arm rotates to counter the rotation of the arm and maintain a consistent orientation of the tilt head.

[0077] (17) The support structure according to (16), wherein the link assembly includes a spring having a plurality of spring constants, the spring being configured to generate a force against the weight of the display to hold the display in a plurality of positions relative to a surface.

[0078] (18) The support structure according to (16), wherein the sweep head includes a first portion and a second portion coupled to the first portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion together define a channel for receiving the ring member.

[0079] (19) The support structure according to any one of (16) to (18), the support structure further including a screw threadedly coupled to the sweep head, wherein the screw is configured to adjust the ring member between a first configuration and a second configuration.

[0080] (20) The support structure according to any one of (16) to (19), wherein in the first configuration, the ring member is movable in the channel under the action of a first frictional force, and wherein the ring member is movable in the channel under the action of a second frictional force greater than the first frictional force.

[0081] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to some preferred embodiments, there are variations and modifications within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention as described.

[0082] The various features of the invention are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising: Base element; An arm pivotally coupled to the base element and defining a longitudinal axis extending between a first end and a second end of the arm; A head for movably supporting the display on the arm; And A linkage assembly movable along the longitudinal axis and including a spring having a plurality of spring constants configured to generate a force against the weight of the display to maintain the display in a plurality of positions relative to a surface.

2. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein, The linkage assembly is configured to maintain a consistent orientation of the head relative to the surface when the arm is adjusted to the plurality of positions.

3. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein, The linkage assembly includes a slider, a first link pivotally connected to the base element and the slider, and a second link pivotally connected to the slider and the head.

4. The support structure according to claim 3, wherein, The spring is positioned within the slider.

5. The support structure according to claim 4, wherein, The spring is configured to apply a force to the slider against the weight of the display to automatically hold the display above the surface.

6. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein, The spring includes a first portion having a first spring constant and a second portion having a second spring constant greater than the first spring constant, and wherein the second spring constant is positioned closer to the head than the first spring constant.

7. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein, The head includes an engagement body movably connected to the arm and pivotally connected to the linkage assembly.

8. The support structure according to claim 7, wherein, The engagement body and the linkage assembly are configured to convert a linear motion of the linkage assembly into a rotational motion of the engagement body.

9. The support structure according to claim 7, wherein, The head further includes a sweep head and a ring, the sweep head movably received within the engagement body, and the ring movably supporting the display on the arm.

10. The support structure according to claim 9, wherein, The ring is capable of sliding within the sweep head to adjust the tilt of the display, and wherein the sweep head is capable of rotating relative to the engagement body to adjust the sweep angle of the display.

11. A support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising: Base element; An arm coupled to the base element and extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end; A head for movably supporting the display on the arm; And A linkage assembly including: A slider movable along the longitudinal axis, A first link pivotally connected to the base element and the slider, A second link pivotally connected to the slider and the head, and A spring positioned within the slider.

12. The support structure according to claim 11, wherein, The linkage assembly is configured to automatically maintain a consistent orientation of the head relative to a surface when the arm is adjusted to the plurality of positions.

13. The support structure according to claim 12, wherein, The spring applies a force to the slider against the weight of the display to automatically hold the display above the surface.

14. The support structure according to claim 11, wherein, The head includes a joint body pivotally connected to the second link, and wherein the joint body and the link assembly are configured to convert the linear motion of the link assembly into rotational motion of the joint body.

15. The support structure according to claim 11, wherein, The spring includes a first portion having a first spring constant and includes a second portion having a second spring constant greater than the first spring constant, and wherein the second spring constant is positioned closer to the head than the first spring constant.

16. A support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising: An arm portion that extends along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end; An inclined head rotatably coupled to the first end of the arm portion, the inclined head including: A joint body movably connected to the support structure, A sweeping head received in the joint body and movable relative to the joint body, and A ring received in the sweeping head, the ring being movable with the sweeping head to adjust the display to a plurality of different tilt angles, and the ring being rotatable relative to the sweeping head to adjust the display to a plurality of different rotational angles relative to a surface; And A link assembly positioned in the arm portion and coupled to the inclined head, the link assembly being configured to rotate the inclined head as the arm rotates to counter the rotation of the arm portion and maintain a consistent orientation of the inclined head.

17. The support structure according to claim 16, wherein, The link assembly includes a spring having a plurality of spring constants, the spring being configured to generate a force against the weight of the display to hold the display in a plurality of positions relative to a surface.

18. The support structure according to claim 16, wherein, The sweeping head includes a first portion and a second portion coupled to the first portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion together define a channel for receiving the ring.

19. The support structure according to claim 18, the support structure further comprising a screw, the screw being screwedly coupled to the sweeping head, wherein, The screw is configured to adjust the ring between a first configuration and a second configuration.

20. The support structure according to claim 19, wherein, In the first configuration, the ring is movable in the channel under the action of a first frictional force, and wherein the ring is movable in the channel under the action of a second frictional force greater than the first frictional force.

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