Lifting mechanism with selectable lifting force range

Abstract

A lifting mechanism may be designed to raise and lower the component. The lift mechanism may include a movable bracket in sliding engagement with the support post. The lifting mechanism may also include a balancing mechanism having one or more springs, an adjustment assembly, and a wheel assembly. The lift mechanism may be configured to translate a component coupled to the movable bracket relative to the support column. A balancing mechanism may be operably coupled between the support column and the movable bracket. When the movable bracket translates relative to the support column, the balance mechanism can generate a lifting force to counteract the weight of the component. The balancing mechanism may also include an anchor. An anchor may be selectively coupled to the support column or the movable bracket to place the lift mechanism in one of a high force orientation or a low force orientation, respectively.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This patent application claims the benefit of the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 381,704, filed on October 31, 2022, by Swartz et al., titled "LIFT MECHANISM WITH SELECTABLE LIFT FORCE RANGES" (Attorney Docket No. 5983.476PRV), the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Technical Field

[0003] This document generally applies to, but is not limited to, lift mechanisms for lifting and balancing loads. Background Art

[0004] Electronic displays, such as computer monitors, tablets, televisions, etc., and workstations, such as desks, carts, wall mounts, etc., are used in various settings. In some settings, one electronic display can be used by multiple operators. In another example, a television can be deployed in a conference center where many people use the electronic display throughout the day. In yet another example, a workstation can be deployed in a workplace shared by multiple employees. It can be understood that differences in people's body sizes and preferences may require the shared electronic display or the shared workstation to be adjustable to suit the individual preferences of the users, such as the elbow height when sitting or standing, the eye height when sitting or standing, etc. In other settings, an electronic display or a workstation dedicated to an individual user may also need to be adjusted. For example, a single user may have physical requirements or preferences to sit and stand regularly when using an electronic display or a workstation. In these cases, a height - adjusting mechanism can be used to meet the needs of multiple operators or a single user. The convenience of height adjustment and the precise setting of the lift mechanism, such as setting the lift force to closely match the weight of the moving parts of the electronic display or the workstation, may be important considerations for users. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005] The following drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present invention and thus do not limit the scope of the invention. The drawings are not drawn to scale and are intended to be used in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description. Similar reference numerals may describe similar components in different views. Similar reference numerals with different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings generally illustrate, by way of example and not limitation, the various embodiments discussed in this document.

[0006] Figure 1 is a block diagram representation of a positioning device according to an example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 2 Is a perspective view of a mobile workstation according to an example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 3 Is a perspective view of a wall-mounted workstation according to an example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 4 Is a perspective view of a mobile media center according to an example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 5 Is a perspective view of a wall mount for an electronic display according to an example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 6 Is Figure 5 A side view of the wall mount.

[0012] Figure 7 Is a schematic view of a lifting mechanism according to an example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 8 Is a schematic view of a lifting mechanism according to another example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 9A Is of Figure 7 The lifting mechanism in a low position. The lifting mechanism is shown in a low force orientation.

[0015] Figure 9B Is Figure 9A A partially enlarged schematic view of the lifting mechanism.

[0016] Figure 10A Is of Figure 7 The lifting mechanism in a low position. The lifting mechanism is shown in a high force orientation.

[0017] Figure 10B Is Figure 10A A partially enlarged schematic view of the lifting mechanism.

[0018] Figure 11 Is a perspective view of a lifting mechanism according to an example configuration of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 12 Is of Figure 11 The lifting mechanism in a high position. A front view of the lifting mechanism.

[0020] Figure 13 Is of Figure 11 The lifting mechanism in a high position. A front view of the lifting mechanism.

[0021] Figure 14 Is of Figure 11Front view of the lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism is shown in the high force orientation.

[0022] Figure 15 is in the low position Figure 11 Front view of the lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism is shown in the low force orientation.

[0023] Figure 16 Schematic diagram of the lifting mechanism according to another exemplary configuration of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 17 is according to the exemplary configuration of the present disclosure Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the lifting mechanism.

[0025] Figure 18 is in the high force orientation Figure 17 Schematic diagram of the lifting mechanism.

[0026] Figure 19 is in the low force orientation Figure 17 Schematic diagram of the lifting mechanism.

[0027] Figure 20 is according to the exemplary configuration of the present disclosure and Figure 16 Schematic diagram of the slider engagement portion engaged with the anchor of.

[0028] Figure 21 is Figure 20 Schematic diagram of the slider engagement portion.

[0029] Figure 22 Partial perspective view of the lifting mechanism according to the exemplary configuration of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 23 Perspective view of the engagement portion between the anchor and the slider according to the exemplary configuration of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 24 Partial schematic diagram of the lifting mechanism according to the exemplary configuration of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 25 is Figure 24 Schematic diagram of the block.

[0033] Figure 26 is Figure 24 Schematic diagram of the pin.

[0034] Figure 27 Perspective view of the lifting mechanism according to the exemplary configuration of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 28 is Figure 27 Perspective view of the anchor.

[0036] Figure 29 is Figure 27 a perspective view of a coupler mechanism of

[0037] Figure 30 is Figure 27 a partial perspective view of a lifting mechanism of . The coupler mechanism is shown in a disconnected configuration.

[0038] Figure 31 is Figure 27 a partial perspective view of a lifting mechanism of . The coupler mechanism is shown in a connected configuration. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0039] The present disclosure relates to a positioning device that can move a component (e.g., an electronic display, a work surface, a platform, etc.) along a travel range. In some example configurations, the positioning device can include a lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism can include a fixed portion and a movable portion, and the lifting mechanism can be coupled to a structure. The fixed portion can be stationary relative to the structure, and the movable portion can translate relative to the fixed portion. The component can be coupled to the movable portion. The lifting mechanism can be configured to raise and lower the component relative to the structure.

[0040] The lifting mechanism can further include a balance mechanism. The balance mechanism can be coupled between the fixed portion and the movable portion. The balance mechanism can be configured to generate a lifting force to counteract the weight of the component coupled to the movable portion (e.g., the weight of an electronic display, the weight of a work surface, etc.). In some example configurations, the lifting force can be adjusted (e.g., increased or decreased) between a high force (e.g., a maximum lifting force) and a low force (e.g., a minimum lifting force) to closely match the weight of the component coupled to the movable portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The following detailed description is exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the following description provides some practical illustrations for implementing exemplary embodiments of the invention. Examples of construction, materials, dimensions, and manufacturing processes are provided for selected elements, and all other elements employ construction, materials, dimensions, and manufacturing processes known to those of ordinary skill in the art of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many of the examples mentioned have a variety of suitable alternatives.

[0042] Figure 1 is a block diagram representation of a positioning device 10 according to some example configurations of the present disclosure. The positioning device 10 can be a mobile workstation 11 (shown in Figure 2 ), a wall-mounted workstation 12 (shown in Figure 3 ), a mobile media center 13 (shown in Figure 4 ), a wall-mounted assembly 14 (shown inFigure 5 as shown in, etc. The positioning device 10 may include a lifting mechanism 100. The lifting mechanism 100 may be coupled to a structure 140, which includes but is not limited to a wall, a pulley-based base, a cabinet, etc.

[0043] The lifting mechanism 100 may include a fixed portion 110 and a movable portion 120. The fixed portion 110 may be stationary relative to the structure 140. The movable portion 120 may be slidably coupled to the fixed portion 110. A component 130 (e.g., an electronic display, a work surface, a platform, etc.) may be coupled to the movable portion 120. The lifting mechanism 100 may be configured to raise and lower the component 130 relative to the structure 140. In some example configurations, one or more components may be coupled to the movable portion 120. The lifting mechanism 100 may be configured to raise and lower one or more components relative to the structure 140.

[0044] The lifting mechanism 100 may further include a balance mechanism 150 coupled to the fixed portion 110 and the movable portion 120. The balance mechanism 150 may be adapted to counteract a portion of the weight of the component 130.

[0045] Figures 2 to 6 Various applications of the positioning device according to some example configurations of the present disclosure are illustrated. As will be apparent in the following sections, Figures 2 to 6 each of the example configurations shown may include all components of the lifting mechanism 100 in various forms. In some example configurations, the movable portion 120 of the lifting mechanism 100 may be provided in the form of a movable bracket (e.g., Figure 1 the movable bracket 121A), and the fixed portion 110 of the lifting mechanism 100 may be provided in the form of a support column (e.g., Figure 2 the support column 111A). Figure 2

[0046] Figure 2Is a perspective view of a mobile workstation 11 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. The mobile workstation 11 may include a lifting mechanism 100A having a fixed portion 110A (e.g., a support column 111A) and a movable portion 120A (e.g., a movable bracket 121A). The movable bracket 121A may be slidably coupled to the support column 111A. The support column 111A may be coupled to the base 20 of the pulley at its first section 201 and to the movable bracket 121A near its second section 202. A component 130A (e.g., a platform 30, etc.) may be coupled to the movable bracket 121A. The platform 30 may include a work surface 32, a display mount 36, a keyboard tray 38, and one or more other electronic components. The display mount 36 may hold an electronic display 40 above the work surface 32. The lifting mechanism 100A may be configured to raise and lower the component 130A (e.g., the platform 30 and other components coupled to the platform 30).

[0047] Figure 2 The lifting mechanism 100A of the mobile workstation 11 may further include a balance mechanism 150A. The balance mechanism 150A may be located inside the support column 111A. The balance mechanism 150A may be coupled between the support column 111A and the movable bracket 121A. The balance mechanism 150A may generate a lifting force to counteract the combined weight of the component 130A (e.g., the weight of the platform 30, the display mount 36, the electronic display 40, etc.) and a part of the lifting mechanism 100A (e.g., the weight of the movable bracket 121A, etc.).

[0048] Figure 3 Is a perspective view of a wall-mounted workstation 12 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. The wall-mounted workstation 12 may include a lifting mechanism 100B having a fixed portion 110B (e.g., a support column 111B) and a movable portion 120B (e.g., a movable bracket 121B). The movable bracket 121B may be slidably coupled to the support column 111B. The support column 111B may be coupled to the wall. A component 130B (e.g., a work surface 33, etc.) may be coupled to the movable bracket 121B. The lifting mechanism 100B may be configured to raise and lower the component 130B.

[0049] Figure 3 The lifting mechanism 100B of the wall-mounted workstation 12 may further include a balance mechanism 150B. The balance mechanism 150B may be located inside the support column 111B. The balance mechanism 150B may be coupled between the support column 111B and the movable bracket 121B. The balance mechanism 150B may generate a lifting force for counteracting the combined weight of the component 130B (e.g., the weight of the work surface 33, etc.) and a part of the lifting mechanism 100B (e.g., the weight of the movable bracket 121B, etc.).

[0050] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a mobile media center 13 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. The mobile media center 13 may include a lifting mechanism 100C having a fixed portion 110C (e.g., a support column 111C) and a movable portion 120C (e.g., a movable bracket 121C). The movable bracket 121C may be slidably coupled to the support column 111C. The support column 111C may be coupled to the base 21 of the pulley at the first section 201 and coupled to the movable bracket 121C near the second section 202. A display mounting bracket assembly 25 may be coupled to the movable bracket 121C. A component 130C (e.g., an interactive display 41, a television, etc.) may be coupled to the display mounting bracket assembly 25. For clarity, the interactive display 41 is presented as transparent in Figure 4 The lifting mechanism of the mobile media center 13 may be configured to raise and lower the component 130C.

[0051] Figure 4 The lifting mechanism of the mobile media center 13 may further include a balance mechanism 150C. The balance mechanism 150C may be located inside the support column 111C. The balance mechanism 150C may be coupled between the support column 111C and the movable bracket 121C. The balance mechanism 150C may generate a lifting force to counteract the weight of the component 130C (e.g., the weight of an electronic display, etc.) and a portion of the lifting mechanism 100C (e.g., the weight of the movable bracket 121C, the weight of the display mounting bracket assembly 25, etc.).

[0052] Figures 5 to 6 are a perspective view and a side view, respectively, of a wall-mounted assembly 14 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. The wall-mounted assembly 14 may be configured to mount an electronic display on a wall. The wall-mounted assembly 14 may include a lifting mechanism 100D having a fixed portion 110D (e.g., a support column 111D) and a movable portion 120D (e.g., a movable bracket 121D). The support column 111D may be coupled to the wall, and the movable bracket 121D may be slidably coupled to the support column 111D. A display engagement portion 27 may be coupled to the movable bracket 121D. A component 130D (e.g., an electronic display 42, etc.) may be coupled to the display engagement portion 27. For clarity, the electronic display 42 is presented as transparent in Figure 5 The lifting mechanism 100D may be configured to raise and lower the component 130D relative to the wall.

[0053] Figures 5 to 6The lifting mechanism 100D of the wall-mounted component 14 may further include a balancing mechanism 150D. The balancing mechanism 150D may be located inside the support column 111D. The balancing mechanism 150D may be coupled between the support column 111D and the movable bracket 121D. The balancing mechanism 150D may generate a lifting force for counteracting the combined weight of the component 130 (such as an electronic display, etc.) and a part of the lifting mechanism 100D (such as the weight of the movable bracket 121D, etc.).

[0054] It can be understood that the component 130 (such as a platform, an electronic display, a work surface, etc.) coupled to the movable part 120 may have a wide weight range. The weight range may depend on the brand and model of the device (such as an electronic display, etc.), the manufacturing material (such as the material of the work surface, platform, etc.) and other factors. In some example configurations, the force generated by the lifting mechanism 100 may be adjustable to accommodate a wide weight range. The adjustment of the lifting force may be carried out in two stages. In the first stage, the user positioning the device may set the lifting force range in one of a high force orientation as shown in Figure 10A or a low force orientation as shown in Figure 9A . In the second stage, by adjusting the tension of the energy storage member (such as one or more springs) included in the balancing mechanism (as shown in Figure 7 ), the lifting force may also be adjusted for each of the high force orientation and the low force orientation.

[0055] Figure 7 is a schematic view of a typical lifting mechanism 100 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. For clarity, one or more parts of the lifting mechanism 100 are presented as transparent. The lifting mechanism 100 may include a fixed part 110 (such as a support column 111) and a movable part 120 (such as a movable bracket 121) movably coupled to the fixed part 110. The support column 111 may extend between a second section 202 and a first section 201. The movable bracket 121 may be configured to translate over at least a part of the support column 111 within a travel range 205.

[0056] The support column 111 may be configured to be coupled (such as directly or indirectly) to a structure 140 (such as a wall, a base with pulleys, etc.), and the component 130 (such as an electronic display, a platform, a work surface, etc.) may be coupled (such as directly or indirectly) to the movable bracket 121. In some example configurations, a positioning device 10 (such as Figures 5 to 6The wall-mounted assembly 14) can translate the electronic display relative to the structure 140 (e.g., a wall) by translating the movable bracket 121 (e.g., movable bracket 121D) relative to the support column 111 (e.g., support column 111D). In other example configurations, a positioning device 10 including a lifting mechanism 100 (e.g., lifting mechanism 100A) Figure 2 The mobile workstation 11) can translate the work surface (e.g., work surface 32) relative to the structure 140 (e.g., the base 20 with pulleys) by translating the movable bracket 121 (e.g., movable bracket 121A) relative to the support column 111 (e.g., support column 111A). In each of these example configurations, the movable bracket 121 can be configured to translate between a high position (e.g., near the second section 202 of the support column 111) and a low position (e.g., near the first section 201 in the support column 111).

[0057] In some example configurations, the lifting mechanism 100 can include a balancing mechanism 150. The balancing mechanism 150 can be operatively coupled between the support column 111 and the movable bracket 121. The balancing mechanism 150 can generate a lifting force 270 to counteract at least a portion of the combined weight coupled to the movable bracket 121 (e.g., the combined weight of the components 130 and the weight of the movable bracket 120).

[0058] The balancing mechanism 150 can include an energy storage member 210, an adjustment assembly 220, and a wheel assembly 230. The energy storage member 210 can include one or more springs 212 (e.g., including one or more tension springs, compression springs, leaf springs, torsion springs, etc.). A first spring plate 214 can be coupled to a first portion 212A of the one or more springs 212, and a second spring plate 216 can be coupled to a second portion 212B of the one or more springs 212.

[0059] The first spring plate 214 can be threadedly engaged with an adjustment screw 222, where the adjustment screw 222 can be rotatably coupled to the support column 111 (e.g., coupled to the support column 111 near the second section 202, as Figure 7 shown). The adjustment screw 222 can be configured to translate the first spring plate 214 along a portion of its length. As the adjustment screw 222 rotates, the first spring plate 214 can translate within an adjustment range 224 along the axial direction of the adjustment screw 222.

[0060] The adjustment assembly 220 can deform (e.g., pull or push) a first portion 212A of the one or more springs 212 to adjust the pre-tension of the one or more springs 212. For example, a first deformation 227 (e.g., Figure 9AThe pulling force shown in is used to adjust (e.g., increase) the pre-tension of one or more springs 212. Generally, when the movable bracket 121 is stationary relative to the support column 111 (e.g., when the movable bracket 121 is stationary at a high position), the pre-tension of one or more springs 212 can be adjusted.

[0061] One or more springs 212 can be operatively coupled to the wheel assembly 230 via a second spring plate 216 and a first tension member 240. As the movable bracket 121 translates relative to the support column 111, the second spring plate 216 can translate. The second spring plate 216 can be configured to deform (e.g., pull) a second portion 212B of one or more springs 212 within a deformation range 226 (e.g., Figure 9A the second deformation 228 shown in ).

[0062] The wheel assembly 230 can include a wheel member 231 and a cam member 232. The wheel assembly 230 can be rotatably coupled to the support column 111 near the first section 201. The cam member 232 can be fixedly attached to the wheel member 231. In some example configurations, the cam member 232 can be formed as an integral part of the wheel member 231. The wheel member 231 and the cam member 232 can be concentric, and they can rotate together about an axis located at the center of the wheel member 231.

[0063] A first section 240A of the first tension member 240 can be coupled to the second spring plate 216, and a second section 240B of the first tension member 240 can be coupled to the cam member 232. As Figure 7 shown, the first tension member 240 can be configured to wind around the cam member 232 as the wheel assembly 230 rotates in the clockwise direction 234. One or more springs 212 can bias the wheel assembly 230 to rotate in the counterclockwise direction.

[0064] In some example configurations, the lifting mechanism 100 can further include a first idler pulley 242 and a second idler pulley 244. As Figure 7 shown, the first idler pulley 242 can be rotatably coupled to the support column 111 near the second section 202. The second idler pulley 244 can be rotatably coupled to the movable bracket 121. When the movable bracket 121 translates within the travel range 205, the second idler pulley 244 can move with the movable bracket 121.

[0065] The balance mechanism 150 can be operably coupled to the movable bracket 121 via the second tension member 246. The second tension member 246 can have a first segment 246A and a second segment 246B. The first segment 246A can be coupled to the wheel member 231. The second tension member 246 can be disposed around the first idler pulley 242 and the second idler pulley 244, and the second segment 246B can be coupled to the anchor 247. When the movable bracket 121 translates relative to the support column 111 towards the first segment 201, the movable bracket 121 can force the wheel assembly 230 to rotate in the clockwise direction 234.

[0066] When the movable bracket 121 is in the high position (e.g., when the movable bracket 121 is positioned close to the second segment 202, as Figure 7 shown), the first segment 246A of the second tension member 246 can be wound around the wheel member 231. When the wheel assembly 230 rotates in the clockwise direction 234 (e.g., when the movable bracket 121 translates towards the first segment 201), the second tension member 246 can unwind from the wheel member 231.

[0067] In some example configurations, the first tension member 240 and the second tension member 246 can be combined into a single elongated tension member. The first tension member, the second tension member (or the single elongated tension member) can be made of materials including but not limited to steel cables, tension polymer ropes, chains, etc.

[0068] The anchor 247 can be configured to couple the second segment 246B of the second tension member 246 to the support column 111 (e.g., under a high force orientation, as Figure 10A shown) or the movable bracket 121 (e.g., under a low force orientation, as Figure 9A shown). In some example configurations, the first fastener 248 can be used to couple the anchor 247 to the support column 111, and the second fastener 249 can be used to couple the anchor 247 to the movable bracket 121. A user of the positioning device 10 can selectively couple the anchor 247 to the support column 111 or the movable bracket 121 using the first fastener 248 or the second fastener 249 respectively according to the desired force result of the balance mechanism 150 (e.g., high force orientation or low force orientation). It will be appreciated that other mechanisms or methods can be used to selectively couple the anchor 147 to the support column 111 or the movable bracket 121. Some of these mechanisms and methods are described in the later part of the present disclosure.

[0069] Figure 8Schematic diagram of a lifting mechanism 101 according to another exemplary configuration of the present disclosure. The lifting mechanism 101 may have a support column 111 and a movable bracket 121. The support column 111 may extend between a second section 202 and a first section 201. The support column 111 may be coupled to a structure (e.g., a wall, a base with pulleys, etc.), and the movable bracket 121 may be coupled to a component (e.g., an electronic display, a work surface, etc.).

[0070] Figure 8 The lifting mechanism 101 may include a balance mechanism 150. The balance mechanism 150 may be operatively coupled between the support column 111 and the movable bracket 121. The balance mechanism 150 may be configured to counteract at least a portion of the weight of the component coupled to the movable bracket 121 (e.g., the weight of the display, the weight of the work surface, the weight of the movable bracket, etc.). The balance mechanism 150 may include an adjustment assembly 220, an energy storage member 210 (e.g., one or more springs 212), and a wheel assembly 230. The adjustment assembly 220 may be coupled to the support column 111 near the first section 201, and the wheel assembly 230 may be rotatably coupled to the support column 111 near the second section 202. The wheel assembly 230 may include a wheel member 231 and a cam member 232. The cam member 232 may be fixedly attached to the wheel member 231. The wheel member 231 and the cam member 232 may rotate together about a rotation axis located at the center of the wheel member 231.

[0071] One or more springs 212 may be coupled to a first spring plate 214 at a first portion 212A and to a second spring plate 216 at a second portion 212B. The first spring plate 214 may be threadedly engaged with an adjustment screw 222. A first tension member 240 may be coupled between the second spring plate 216 and the wheel assembly 230. The adjustment screw 222 may be coupled to the support column 111 near the first section 201. The adjustment screw 222 may be configured to move the first spring plate 214 along at least a portion of its length to adjust the tension (e.g., pre-tension) of one or more springs 212.

[0072] Figure 8 The lifting mechanism 101 may further include an idler pulley 245. The idler pulley 245 may be rotatably coupled to the movable bracket 121. A second tension member 246 may be coupled to the wheel assembly 230 at a first section 246A, the second tension member 246 may be routed around the idler pulley 245, and an anchor 247 may be coupled to a second section 246B of the second tension member 246. The anchor 247 may be selectively coupled to the support column 111 or the movable bracket, as discussed in the previous section.

[0073] The movable bracket 121 is configured to translate between the second segment 202 and the first segment 201 along the travel range 205. The second tension member 246 can initially be wound around the wheel member 231 when the movable bracket 121 is in a high position (e.g., the movable bracket 121 is close to the second segment 202 of the support column 111, as Figure 8 shown). When the movable bracket 121 translates along the travel range 205 towards the first segment 201, the second tension member 246 can force the wheel assembly 230 to rotate in the counterclockwise direction 235. A portion of the second tension member 246 can unwind from the wheel member 231 to allow the movable bracket to translate towards the first segment 201. When the wheel assembly 230 rotates in the counterclockwise direction 235, the first tension member 240 can be wound around the cam member 232.

[0074] Figures 9A to 9B is Figure 7 a schematic diagram of the lifting mechanism 100. The movable bracket 121 can translate a first distance 250 from a high position (e.g., near the second segment 202) towards a low position (e.g., near the first segment 201). In Figure 9A , the movable bracket 121 is shown in the low position. In Figure 9A , the lifting mechanism is shown in a low force orientation. In the low force orientation, the anchor 247 can be coupled to the movable bracket 121 using the second fastener 249 such that the anchor 247 can be adapted to translate with the movable bracket 121.

[0075] The second tension member 246 can be coupled to the wheel member 231 on the first segment 246A and to the anchor 247 on the second segment 246B. The second tension member 246 can be routed around the first idler pulley 242 and the second idler pulley 244 between the first segment 246A and the second segment 246B. The second tension member 246 can be an elongate member having a first section 252, a second section 254, and a third section 256. The first section 252 can extend between the wheel member 231 and the first idler pulley 242, the second section 254 can extend between the first idler pulley 242 and the second idler pulley 244, and the third section 256 can extend between the second idler pulley 244 and the anchor 247. In Figure 9A the low force orientation shown (e.g., the anchor 247 can be coupled to the movable bracket 121 using the second fastener 249), the lengths of the first section 252 and the third section 256 can remain constant (e.g., the lengths of the first section 252 and the third section 256 cannot change when the movable bracket 121 translates relative to the support column 111).

[0076] On the other hand, at a low force orientation, as the movable bracket 121 translates relative to the support column 111 along the travel range 205, the length of the second section 254 can increase or decrease. For example, if the movable bracket 121 moves a first distance 250 towards the first section 201, the distance between the first idler pulley 242 and the second idler pulley 244 can increase by the first distance 250. Thus, the length of the second section 254 can increase by the same amount (e.g., increase by the first distance 250). Similarly, when the movable bracket 121 moves towards the second section 202, the length of the second section 254 can decrease. The amount of decrease in the length of the second section 254 can be equal to the travel amount of the movable bracket 121 towards the second section 202.

[0077] The movable bracket 121 can be configured to force the wheel assembly 230 to rotate in a clockwise direction as it translates towards the first section 201 of the support column 111. The second tension member 246 can initially be wound around the wheel member 231 near the first section 246A when the movable bracket 121 is in a high position (e.g., near the second section 202 as shown). As the wheel assembly 230 rotates in a clockwise direction, a portion of the second tension member 246 (e.g., the portion of the first section 252 near the first section 246A) can unwind from the wheel member 231. Figure 7 As described above, one or more springs 212 can bias the wheel assembly 230 to rotate in a counterclockwise direction. When the movable bracket 121 translates towards the second section 202 of the support column 111, slack may occur in the second tension member 246. Since the wheel assembly 230 can rotate in a counterclockwise direction under the action of one or more springs 212, a portion of the second tension member 246 (e.g., the portion of the first section 252 near the first section 246A) can wind around the wheel member 231 to absorb the slack in the second tension member 246.

[0078] As described above, one or more springs 212 can bias the wheel assembly 230 to rotate in a counterclockwise direction. When the movable bracket 121 translates towards the second section 202 of the support column 111, slack may occur in the second tension member 246. Since the wheel assembly 230 can rotate in a counterclockwise direction under the action of one or more springs 212, a portion of the second tension member 246 (e.g., the portion of the first section 252 near the first section 246A) can wind around the wheel member 231 to absorb the slack in the second tension member 246.

[0079] As the movable support 121 translates towards the first segment 201, any increase in the length of the second segment 254 (e.g., corresponding to an increase in the first distance 250) can be provided by the first segment 252. Since the movable support 121 is operatively coupled to the wheel assembly 230 via the second tension member 246, when the movable support translates the first distance 250, the wheel assembly 230 can rotate a first rotational angle 260 in the clockwise direction. The first rotational angle 260 can be roughly calculated by dividing the first distance 250 by the wheel radius 236. A portion of the second tension member 246 (e.g., a portion having a length equal to the first distance 250) can be unwound from the wheel member 231 and fed to the first segment 252 near the first segment 246A. A portion of the first segment 252 (e.g., a portion having a length equal to the first distance 250) can be shifted onto the second segment 254 over the first idler pulley 242 to support the increase in the length of the second segment 252.

[0080] Returning to Figure 9B , as the wheel assembly 230 rotates a first rotational angle 260 in the clockwise direction, a portion of the first tension member 240 (e.g., a portion near the cam member 232) can be wound around the cam member 232. By multiplying the first rotational angle 260 by the radius of the cam member 232, the length of the portion of the first tension member 240 wound around the cam member 232 can be roughly calculated. It can be understood that the radius of the cam member 232 can vary along the circumference of the cam member 232. When calculating the length of the first tension member 240 wound around the cam member 232, the varying radius of the cam member 232 can be taken into account. One or more springs 212 can be stretched (e.g., by deforming a second portion 212B of the one or more springs 212, the second spring plate 216 can be moved towards the wheel assembly 230) to allow the first tension member 240 to be wound around the cam member 232. As the movable support 121 translates towards the first segment 201, the amount of deformation (e.g., the second deformation 228) of the one or more springs 212 can increase. When the wheel assembly 230 rotates the first rotational angle 260, the increase in the deformation (e.g., the second deformation 228) of the one or more springs 212 can be equal to the length of the portion of the first tension member 240 wound around the cam member 232.

[0081] In Figure 9A are illustrated typical forces acting on the lifting mechanism 100 in a low-force orientation. The typical forces can include a first force 262 (e.g., a force generated by one or more springs 212), a second force 263, a third force 264, and a fourth force 265. The second force 263, the third force 264, and the fourth force 265 can cooperate to generate a lifting force 270A applied to the movable support 121 in the low-force orientation.

[0082] The first force 262 can be supported by the first tension member 240. The second force 263, the third force 264, and the fourth force 265 can be supported by the first section 252, the second section 254, and the third section 256 of the second tension member, respectively. Since the first section 252, the second section 254, and the third section 256 can be continuous segments of the second tension member 246, and the first idler pulley 242 and the second idler pulley 244 can rotate freely about their respective axes, the second force 263, the third force 264, and the fourth force 265 can be equal in magnitude.

[0083] The first force 262 can be applied to the cam member 232 via the first tension member 240. The first force 262 can be equal to the spring force generated by one or more springs 212. The spring force (e.g., the first force 262) can be a function of one or more spring parameters and the total deformation of the one or more springs 212. The total deformation of the one or more springs 212 can be the sum of a first deformation 227 (e.g., the deformation of the first part 212A of the one or more springs 212 coupled to the adjustment assembly 220 via the first spring plate 214) and a second deformation 228 (e.g., the deformation of the second part 212B of the one or more springs 212 coupled to the cam member 232 via the second spring plate 216 and the first tension member 240).

[0084] The first deformation 227 can define the pre-tension of the one or more springs 212. The adjustment assembly 220 can be configured to set the first deformation 227 as described above. During the translation of the movable bracket 121, the first deformation 227 can remain constant. As the wheel assembly 230 rotates in the clockwise direction while the movable bracket 121 translates toward the first section 201, the second spring plate 216 can be pulled by the first tension member 240 as described above. The movement of the second spring plate 216 can cause the second deformation 228. As the movable bracket 121 translates toward the first section 201, the second deformation 228 can increase, and thus, the first force 262 (e.g., the spring force) can increase.

[0085] at Figure 9BOne or more forces (e.g., first force 262 and second force 263) and one or more torques (e.g., first torque 268 and second torque 269) acting on the wheel assembly 230 in a balanced state are shown. The first tension member 240 may be coupled to the cam member 232, and thus, the first tension member 240 may transmit the first force 262 to the cam member 232, thereby generating the first torque 268. The first torque 268 may be applied to the wheel assembly 230 in a counterclockwise direction. At any moment, the first torque 268 may be roughly calculated by multiplying the first force 262 by the instantaneous cam radius 233. The instantaneous cam radius 233 is: during the translation of the movable bracket 121, when the wheel assembly 230 rotates (e.g., at the first rotation angle 260), the radius of the cam member 232 at the contact point between the first tension member 240 and the cam member 232. The instantaneous cam radius 233 may vary (e.g., decrease) according to the cam rotation (e.g., as the first rotation angle 260 increases) to keep the first torque 268 constant despite the change (e.g., increase) of the first force 262.

[0086] The first torque 268 may be cancelled by the second torque 269. The second torque 269 may be generated by the second force 263. The second torque 269 may act on the wheel assembly 230 in a clockwise direction. The second torque 269 may be equal to the first torque 268 to keep the wheel assembly 230 balanced. The second force 263 may be applied to the wheel assembly 230 through the second tension member 246 coupled to the wheel member 231. The second force 263 may be roughly calculated by dividing the first torque 268 by the wheel radius 236. The wheel radius 236 is the radius of the wheel member 231. In some example configurations, the wheel radius may be constant, and in other example configurations, the wheel radius may be variable. If the first torque 268 and the wheel radius 236 are constant, the second force 263 may also be constant.

[0087] Returning to Figure 9A , the second force 263 may be supported by the first section 252 of the second tension member 246. The first section 252 may be coupled to the wheel assembly 230 and the first idler pulley 242. Both the wheel assembly 230 and the first idler pulley 242 may be coupled to the support column 111. Thus, the second force 263 cannot directly contribute to the lifting force 270A acting on the movable bracket 121.

[0088] The third force 264 can be supported by the second section 254 of the second tension member 246. The second section 254 can be coupled between the first idler pulley 242 and the second idler pulley 244. The first idler pulley 242 can be coupled to the support post 111, and the second idler pulley 244 can be coupled to the movable bracket 121. Accordingly, the third force 264 can act between the support post 111 and the movable bracket 121, and thus, the third force 264 can directly contribute to the lifting force 270A acting on the movable bracket 121.

[0089] The fourth force 265 can be supported by the third section 256 of the second tension member 246. The third section 256 can be coupled between the second idler pulley 244 and the anchor 247. As Figure 9A shown, both the second idler pulley 244 and the anchor 247 can be coupled to the movable bracket 121 in a low-force orientation. Accordingly, the fourth force 265 can be located inside the movable bracket 121, and thus, the fourth force 265 cannot contribute to the lifting force 270A acting on the movable bracket 121 in the low-force orientation.

[0090] In summary, in the low-force orientation of the lifting mechanism 100 (e.g., the anchor 247 can be coupled to the movable bracket 121, as Figure 9A shown), the movable bracket 121 can move a first distance 250 relative to the support post 111, resulting in an increase in the length of the second tension member 246 (e.g., the length of the second section 254 can increase). In response, the wheel assembly 230 can rotate a first rotation angle 260 to release (e.g., unwind from the wheel member 231) a portion of the length of the second tension member 246 equal to the first distance 250, and a first portion 212A of one or more springs 212 can deform a second deformation 228 to allow the first tension member 240 to wind around the cam member 232. The increased spring force (e.g., the first force 262 due to the second deformation 228) can act on the cam member 232. A second force 263 can act on the wheel member 231 to keep the wheel assembly 230 balanced. As described above, the second force 263 can be calculated based on the torque balance of the wheel assembly 230. As described above, although the first force 262 is increased due to the change in the instantaneous cam radius 233, the second force 263 can be constant. As described above, in the low-force orientation, the lifting force 270A can be equal to the second force 263. The lifting force 270A can act on the movable bracket 121 to counteract the combined weight of the movable bracket 120 and other components coupled to the movable bracket 122.

[0091] Figures 10A to 10B is a schematic diagram of the lifting mechanism 100 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. In Figure 7 ... Figure 10AThe movable support 121 is shown in the low position. The movable support 121 can translate a first distance 250 from a high position (e.g., near the second segment 202) toward the low position (e.g., near the first segment 201).

[0092] In Figure 10A the lifting mechanism 100 in the high force orientation is shown. In the high force orientation, the anchor 247 can be coupled to the support column 111 using the first fastener 248. When the movable support 121 translates relative to the support column 111, the anchor 247 can remain stationary (e.g., cannot move relative to the support column 111). The first tension member 240 and the second tension member 246 can be arranged similarly to the discussion above regarding the low force orientation ( Figure 9A as shown).

[0093] As the movable support 121 translates a first distance 250 relative to the support column, the length of the second tension member 246 can change. The first idler pulley 242 and the wheel assembly 230 can be coupled to the support column 111, and thus, as the movable support 121 translates relative to the support column 111, the length of the first section 252 of the second tension member 246 cannot change. The second idler pulley 244 can be coupled to the movable support 121, and thus, as the movable support translates relative to the support column, the length of the second section 254 of the second tension member 246 can change (e.g., as the movable support moves toward the first segment 201, the length of the second section 254 can increase because the distance between the first idler pulley 242 and the second idler pulley 244 can increase). The increase in the length of the second section 254 can be equal to the translation amount of the movable support 121 (e.g., the first distance 250). Since the anchor 247 can be coupled to the support column in the high force orientation, the length of the third section 256 of the second tension member 246 can also change as the movable support 121 translates relative to the support column 111. As the movable support 121 moves toward the first segment 201, the length of the third section 256 can increase because the distance between the second idler pulley 244 and the anchor 247 can increase. The increase in the length of the third section 256 can be equal to the translation amount of the movable support 121 (e.g., the first distance 250).

[0094] In the high force orientation ( Figure 10AAs shown in [FIGURE REFERENCE], the total increase in the length of the second tension member 246 can be equal to twice the first distance 250 (e.g., the sum of the increases in the lengths of the second section 254 and the third section 256, each increase being equal to the first distance 250). A portion of the second section 254 (e.g., a portion having a length equal to the first distance 250) can be shifted on the second idler pulley 244 to the third section 256 to support the increase in the length of the third section 256, and a portion of the first section 252 (e.g., a portion having a length equal to twice the first distance 250) can be shifted on the first idler pulley 242 to the second section 254 to support the increases in the lengths of the second section 254 and the third section 256.

[0095] When the wheel assembly 230 rotates in the clockwise direction, the increase in the length of the second tension member 246 (e.g., twice the first distance 250) can be equal to the length of the portion of the second tension member 246 that is released (e.g., unwound) from the wheel member 231. At a high force orientation ( Figure 10A as shown in [FIGURE REFERENCE]), the wheel assembly 230 can rotate a second rotation angle 261 ( Figure 10B as shown in [FIGURE REFERENCE]) to release a length of the second tension member 246 that is equal to twice the first distance 250. The second rotation angle 261 can be approximately calculated by dividing twice the first distance 250 by the wheel radius 236. The second rotation angle 261 can be greater than the first rotation angle 260 (e.g., twice as large as the first rotation angle 260).

[0096] One or more springs 212 can be operatively coupled to the cam member 232 via the second spring plate 216 and the first tension member 240. At a high force orientation ( Figures 10A to 10B as shown in [FIGURE REFERENCE]), when the wheel assembly 230 rotates the second rotation angle 261, a second portion 212B of the one or more springs 212 can be deformed a third deformation 229 to allow the first tension member 240 to wind around the cam member 232. The third deformation 229 can be greater than the second deformation 228. The one or more springs 212 can provide a first force 262 that is applied to the cam member 232 via the first tension member 240. The first force 262 can increase as the third deformation 229 increases.

[0097] At Figure 10A as shown in [FIGURE REFERENCE], typical forces acting on the lifting mechanism 100 at a high force orientation are illustrated. The typical forces include a first force 262 (e.g., the force generated by one or more springs 212 as described above), a second force 263, a third force 264, and a fourth force 265. The second force 263, the third force 264, and the fourth force 265 can cooperate to produce a lifting force 270B that is applied to the movable support 121 at a high force orientation.

[0098] The second force 263 can be roughly calculated based on the torque balance on the wheel assembly 230. Although the first force 262 increases due to the instantaneous cam radius 233 varying according to the second rotation angle 261, the second force 263 can be constant. As discussed in the previous section, the third force 264 and the fourth force 265 can be equal to the second force 263.

[0099] Returning to Figure 10A , the second force 263 can be supported by the first section 252 of the second tension member 246. The first section 252 can be coupled between the wheel member 231 and the first idler pulley 242. Both the wheel member 231 and the first idler pulley 242 can be coupled to the support post 111; thus, the second force 263 cannot contribute to the lifting force 270B acting on the movable bracket 121.

[0100] The third force 264 can be supported by the second section 254 of the second tension member 246. The second section 254 can be coupled between the first idler pulley 242 and the second idler pulley 244, where the first idler pulley 242 can be coupled to the support post 111 and the second idler pulley 244 can be coupled to the movable bracket 121. Thus, the third force 264 can act between the support post 111 and the movable bracket 121, and thus, the third force 264 can contribute to the lifting force 270B acting on the movable bracket 121 in a high force orientation.

[0101] The fourth force 265 can be supported by the third section 256 of the second tension member 246. The third section 256 can be coupled between the second idler pulley 244 and the anchor 247. The anchor 247 can be coupled to the support post 111; thus, the fourth force 265 can act between the support post 111 and the movable bracket 121, and thus, the fourth force 265 can contribute to the lifting force 270B acting on the movable bracket 121 in a high force orientation.

[0102] In summary, in the high force orientation of the lifting mechanism 100 (e.g., the anchor 247 can be coupled to the support post 111, as Figure 10AAs shown, the movable bracket 121 can move a first distance 250 relative to the support column 111, resulting in an increase in the length of the second tension member 246 (e.g., the lengths of the second section 254 and the third section 256 can increase, each increase being equal to the first distance 250). In response, the wheel assembly 230 can rotate a second rotation angle 261 to release (e.g., unwind from the wheel member 231) a length of the second tension member 246 that is equal to twice the first distance 250, and a second portion 212B of one or more springs 212 can deform a third deformation 229 to allow the first tension member 240 to wind around the cam member 232. The increased spring force (e.g., the first force 262) can act on the cam member 232, and a second force 263 can act on the wheel member 231 to keep the wheel assembly 230 balanced. As discussed in the previous section, the second force 263 can be calculated based on the torque balance of the wheel assembly 230. Although the first force 262 increases due to the change in the cam radius, the second force 263 can be constant. The lifting force 270B can be equal to twice the second force 263. The lifting force 270B ( Figure 10A as shown in) can be greater (e.g., twice as great) than the lifting force 270A in a low force orientation ( Figure 9A as shown in). The lifting force 270B can counteract the combined weight of the movable bracket 121 and other components coupled to the movable bracket 121 in a high force orientation.

[0103] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a lifting mechanism 100 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. The lifting mechanism 100 can include a fixed portion 110 and a movable portion 120. The movable portion 120 can be slidably engaged with the fixed portion 110. Figures 12 to 15 is Figure 11 a front view of the lifting mechanism. In Figures 12 to 15 , for clarity, the movable portion 120 is presented as transparent.

[0104] The fixed portion 110 can be elongated between a first section 201 and a second section 202. The fixed portion 110 can also include a first wall 112 of the fixed portion, a second wall 113 of the fixed portion, and a third wall 114 of the fixed portion. The fixed portion 110 can be made of any engineering material including but not limited to sheet metal, die castings, or molded plastics. The first section 201, the second section 202, the second wall 113 of the fixed portion, and the third wall 114 of the fixed portion can extend from the first wall 112 of the fixed portion in a lateral direction. A section 1121 of the fixed portion 110 opposite the first wall 112 of the fixed portion can be open to receive the movable portion 120. In some example configurations, the fixed portion 110 can be coupled to a structure (e.g., a wall, a rod, a base of a pulley, a tabletop gripper, etc.).

[0105] The movable part 120 can be formed in a U shape and has a first wall 122 of the movable part, a second wall 123 of the movable part, and a third wall 124 of the movable part. The movable part 120 can be made of any engineering material including but not limited to sheet metal, die castings, or molded plastics. The second wall 123 of the movable part and the third wall 124 of the movable part can extend in a lateral direction from the first wall 122 of the movable part. A section 1221 of the movable part 120 opposite to the first wall 122 of the movable part can be open to receive one or more internal components (e.g., one or more springs 212) of the internal components of the lifting mechanism 100. The first wall 122 of the movable part can be coupled to the component 130 (e.g., Figure 2 the platform 30 of, Figure 3 the working surface 33 of, Figure 4 the interactive display 41 of, etc.).

[0106] The second wall 123 of the movable part can be positioned opposite to the second wall 113 of the fixed part, and the first wall 124 of the movable part can be positioned opposite to the third wall 114 of the fixed part. The first wall 122 of the movable part can be positioned opposite to and away from the first wall 112 of the fixed part. The first slider 115 can be positioned between the second wall 123 of the movable part and the second wall 113 of the fixed part, and the second slider 116 can be positioned between the third wall 124 of the movable part and the third wall 114 of the fixed part. Each of the first slider 115 and the second slider 116 can have an inner track 117A and an outer track 117B (as Figure 13 shown). The movable part 120 can be coupled to the inner tracks 117A of the first slider 115 and the second slider 116, and the fixed part 110 can be coupled to the outer tracks 117B of the first slider 115 and the second slider 116. The first slider 115 and the second slider 116 can be configured to guide the movable part 120 when the movable part 120 translates relative to the fixed part 110 through the travel range 205.

[0107] The lifting mechanism can further include a balance mechanism 150. The balance mechanism 150 can be located inside the fixed part 110 and the movable part 120 (e.g., between the first wall 112 of the fixed part and the first wall 122 of the movable part). In some example configurations, the balance mechanism 150 can include an adjustment assembly 220, one or more springs 212, and a wheel assembly 230. The balance mechanism 150 can be operably coupled between the fixed part 110 and the movable part 120. The balance mechanism 150 can be configured to generate a lifting force to counteract at least a part of the combined weight of the movable part 120 and the component 130 coupled to the movable part 120.

[0108] The wheel assembly 230 may be rotatably coupled to the fixed portion 110 near the first segment 201. In some example configurations, the retaining block 119 may be coupled to the fixed portion 110 near the first segment 201, and the wheel assembly 230 may be rotatably coupled to the retaining block 119.

[0109] In some example configurations, the wheel assembly may include a wheel member 231 and a cam member 232. The cam member 232 may be fixedly attached to the wheel member 231. In some example configurations, the cam member 232 and the wheel member 231 may be a single piece, where the cam member 232 may be formed in the wheel member 231. Generally, the wheel member 231 may have a constant outer radius, and the cam member 232 may have a varying outer radius. The wheel member 231 and the cam member 232 may be concentric and may rotate together about the wheel axis 118.

[0110] One or more springs 212 may be coupled to the first spring plate 214 at a first portion 212A and to the second spring plate 216 at a second portion 212B. The first spring plate 214 may be coupled to the adjustment assembly 220 near the second segment 202. The second spring plate 216 may be coupled to the wheel assembly 230 via a first tension member 240 (e.g., wire, rope, string, cord, chain, strap, belt, etc.). The first tension member 240 may be made of engineering materials including but not limited to natural fibers, metals, polymers, single wires, etc. One or more springs 212 may bias the wheel assembly 230 to rotate in a counterclockwise direction.

[0111] The balance mechanism 150 may further include a second tension member 246 (e.g., wire, rope, string, cord, chain, strap, belt, etc.) having a first segment 246A and a second segment 246B ( Figure 12 as shown). The first segment 246A may be coupled to the wheel assembly 230, and the second segment 246B may be coupled to the anchor 247. In some example configurations, the second tension member 246 may be routed between the first segment 246A and the second segment 246B around a first idler pulley 242 and a second idler pulley 244. The first idler pulley 242 may be rotatably coupled to the fixed portion 110 near the second segment 202, and the second idler pulley 244 may be rotatably coupled to the movable portion 120. The second tension member 246 may be made of engineering materials including but not limited to natural fibers, metals, polymers, single wires, etc.

[0112] The second tension member 246 may have a first section 252, a second section 254, and a third section 256. The first section 252 may extend between the wheel assembly 230 and the first idler pulley 242, the second section 254 may extend between the first idler pulley 242 and the second idler pulley 244, and the third section 256 may extend between the second idler pulley 244 and the anchor 247. In some example configurations, as discussed in the previous section, as the movable portion 120 translates relative to the fixed portion 110 toward the first segment 201, the length of the second tension member 246 (e.g., the length of the second section 254 or the length of the third section 256) may increase. A portion of the first section 252 may shift onto the second section 254 on the first idler pulley 242, a portion of the second section 254 may shift onto the third section 256 on the second idler pulley 244, and an additional segment may be added to the first section 252 near the first section 246A to allow for an increase in the length of the second tension member 246.

[0113] The adjustment assembly 220 may include an adjustment screw 222 having a screw head 221 and a screw shank 223. The adjustment screw 222 may be coupled to the fixed portion 110 (e.g., the screw head 221 may be coupled to the second segment 202) and threadedly engaged with the first spring plate 214. The first spring plate 214 may be configured to translate along the axial direction of the adjustment screw 222 through an adjustment range 224 (e.g., including low adjustment and high adjustment) when the adjustment screw 222 rotates (e.g., the first spring plate 214 may be near the screw shank 223 during low adjustment and near the screw head 221 during high adjustment).

[0114] The adjustment assembly 220 may be configured to adjust the tension (e.g., pre-tension) of one or more springs 212. Compared to the pre-tension during high adjustment (e.g., when the first spring plate 214 is near the screw head 221, as Figure 13 shown), one or more springs may have a lower pre-tension during low adjustment (e.g., when the first spring plate 214 is near the screw shank 223, as Figure 12 shown). One or more springs 212 may be configured to produce a low spring force when the pre-tension is low, and one or more springs 212 may be configured to produce a high spring force when the pre-tension is high. Similarly, the lifting mechanism 100 may be configured to produce a low lifting force when the pre-tension is low, and the lifting mechanism 100 may be configured to produce a high lifting force when the pre-tension is high.

[0115] The anchor 247 may be selectively coupled to either the fixed portion 110 or the movable portion 120. In some example configurations, the anchor 247 may be coupled to the fixed portion 110 using one or more of the first fasteners 248, asFigures 12 to 14 As shown, in other example configurations, the anchor 247 can be coupled to the movable portion 120 using one or more of the second fasteners 249, such as Figure 15 shown. The anchor 247 can be selectively coupled to the fixed portion 110 or the movable portion 120 such that the lifting mechanism 100 is in a high force orientation as shown in Figures 12 to 14 and a low force orientation as shown in Figure 15 respectively.

[0116] The anchor 247 can take many different shapes and forms, including but not limited to blocks, screws, hooks, pins, etc. There can be many different methods and mechanisms for selectively coupling the anchor 247 to the fixed portion 110 or the movable portion 120, including but not limited to sliders, rotators, etc. Some of these mechanisms and methods will be discussed in later parts of this disclosure. These methods and mechanisms can be operated by a user of the lifting mechanism 100 to selectively couple the anchor 247 to the fixed portion 110 or the movable portion 120.

[0117] The second tension member 246 can be operatively coupled to the movable portion 120 and the wheel assembly 230. When the movable portion 120 translates relative to the fixed portion 110, the movable portion 120 can force the wheel assembly 230 to rotate in a clockwise direction. Compared with the rotation angle when the anchor 247 is coupled to the movable portion 120 (e.g., the first rotation angle 260 in the low force orientation, as shown in FIGS. 9 and Figure 15 shown), when the anchor 247 is coupled to the fixed portion 110 (e.g., the second rotation angle 261 in the high force orientation, as shown in FIGS. 10 to Figure 14 shown), the wheel assembly 230 can be configured to rotate more. For example, the second rotation angle 261 can be twice the first rotation angle 260. When the wheel assembly 230 rotates in a clockwise direction relative to the fixed portion 110, the second portion 212B of one or more springs 212 can be adapted to deform through the deformation range 226.

[0118] The first portion 212A of one or more springs 212 can be displaced by a first deformation 227 (e.g., a deformation caused by rotating the adjustment screw 222) within the adjustment range 224 ( Figure 9A and Figure 10A shown), and the second portion 212B of one or more springs 212 can be displaced by a second deformation 228 (e.g., a deformation caused by the translation of the movable portion 120) within the deformation range 226 (e.g., Figure 9A shown in the low force orientation) or a third deformation 229 (e.g., Figure 10AAs shown in (at a high force orientation). The total deformation of one or more springs 212 can be equal to the sum of the first deformation 227 and the second deformation 228 at a low force orientation, or equal to the sum of the first deformation 227 and the third deformation 229 at a high force orientation. The spring force generated by one or more springs (e.g., equivalent to the first force 262 as discussed in the previous section with respect to FIGS. 9-10) can be applied to the wheel assembly 230 via the first tension member 240. The magnitude of the first force 262 can depend on the total deformation of one or more springs 212 and one or more spring parameters. As discussed in the previous section, the first force 262 can be converted into a lifting force 270 (e.g., such as Figure 15 the lifting force 270A shown at a low force orientation, or as Figure 14 the lifting force 270B shown at a high force orientation) through torque balance on the wheel assembly 230.

[0119] The balance mechanism 150 can apply the lifting force 270 to the movable part 120 (e.g., Figure 15 the lifting force 270A or Figure 14 the lifting force 270B). The lifting force 270 applied to the movable part 120 can help reduce the amount of force required to translate the movable part 120 relative to the fixed part 110. When the lifting force 270 is equal to the combined weight of the movable part 120 and other components coupled to the movable part 120, the lifting mechanism 100 can be balanced. When the lifting mechanism 100 is balanced, although the force generated by one or more springs 212 (e.g., the first force 262) increases, the amount of user-applied force required to translate the movable part 120 can remain substantially constant, and the operator of the lifting mechanism 100 can position the components coupled to the movable part 120 at any desired height along the travel range 205, thereby only overcoming the friction between the sliding parts of the lifting mechanism 100 (e.g., overcoming the friction inherent in the first slider 115 and the second slider 116). In addition, the balance mechanism 150 can help maintain the position of the movable part 120 relative to the fixed part 110 without the operator engaging an optional position stop mechanism (if present).

[0120] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of a lifting mechanism 400 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. The lifting mechanism 400 can include a support column 410, a movable bracket 420, and a balance mechanism 430. For clarity, the movable bracket 420 is presented as transparent in Figure 16 The support column 410 can extend between a first section 412 and a second section 414. In Figure 16In [the figure], the movable support 420 is shown in the high position (e.g., the movable support 420 is located near the second segment 414). The movable support 420 can be configured to translate relative to the support column 410 within the travel range 405 between the second segment 414 and the first segment 412.

[0121] The balance mechanism 430 is operatively coupled between the movable support 420 and the support column 410. The balance mechanism 430 can include an adjustment assembly 440, one or more springs 450 (e.g., tension springs, compression springs, leaf springs, etc.), and a wheel assembly 460. The adjustment assembly 440 can be coupled between the support column 410 and the one or more springs 450 near the second segment 414. The adjustment assembly 440 can be configured to adjust the pre-tension of the one or more springs 450, as discussed in the previous section.

[0122] The wheel assembly 460 can be rotatably coupled to the support column 410 near the first segment 412. The wheel assembly 460 can include a wheel member 461 and a cam member 462 coupled to the wheel member 461. In some example configurations, the cam member 462 and the wheel member 461 can be a single piece, where the cam member 462 can be formed in the wheel member 461. The wheel member 461 and the cam member 462 can rotate together about an axis located at the center of the wheel member 461.

[0123] The one or more springs 450 can be operatively coupled to the wheel assembly 460 (e.g., coupled to the cam member 462) via a first tension member 471. The first tension member 471 can be an elongate member (e.g., wire, rope, string, cord, chain, strap, belt, etc.). The one or more springs 450 can bias the wheel assembly 460 to rotate in the counterclockwise direction.

[0124] In some example configurations, the lifting mechanism 400 can further include a transition pulley assembly 480 and an idler pulley 485. The transition pulley assembly 480 can be rotatably coupled to the support column 410 near the second segment 414, and the idler pulley 485 can be rotatably coupled to the movable support 420. The transition pulley assembly 480 can include a first transition pulley 481 and a second transition pulley 482 coupled to the first transition pulley 481. Generally, the first transition pulley 481 can have a radius smaller than the radius of the second transition pulley 482. In some example configurations, the first transition pulley 481 can be formed as an integral part of the second transition pulley 482.

[0125] The lifting mechanism may further include a second tension member 472 and a third tension member 473. The wheel assembly 460 may be coupled to the transition pulley assembly 480 via the second tension member 472. For example, a first portion 472A of the second tension member 472 may be coupled to the wheel member 461, and a second portion 472B of the second tension member 472 may be coupled to the first transition pulley 481, as Figure 16 shown.

[0126] The third tension member 473 may have a first segment 475 and a second segment 476. The first segment 475 may be coupled to the second transition pulley 482, and the second segment 476 may be coupled to the anchor 487. The third tension member 473 may be disposed around the idler pulley 485 between the first segment 475 and the second segment 476, as Figure 16 shown. The third tension member 473 may cooperate with the idler pulley 485 to operatively couple the balance mechanism 430 to the movable bracket 420.

[0127] The anchor 487 may be selectively coupled to the support column 410 or the movable bracket 420 to place the lifting mechanism 400 in a high force orientation or a low force orientation, respectively, as discussed in the previous section. In Figure 16 this, the anchor 487 is shown as being coupled to the support column 410 using mechanical fasteners 488.

[0128] The third tension member 473 may have a first section 473A and a second section 473B. The first section 473A may extend between the second transition pulley 482 and the idler pulley 485, and the second section 473B may extend between the idler pulley 485 and the anchor 487. An explanation of the forces within the lifting mechanism 400 in a balanced state will now be provided according to some embodiments.

[0129] When Figure 16 the illustrated embodiment of the lifting mechanism 400 is in a balanced state, one or more springs 450 may be deformed and generate a spring force 490 (e.g., as explained in the previous section with respect to FIGS. 9-10). The spring force 490 may be transmitted to the cam member 462 via the first tension member 471. The spring force 490 may apply a first torque 491 on the wheel assembly 460. The first torque 491 may force the wheel assembly 460 to rotate in a counterclockwise direction and generate a first force 494 on the second tension member 472. As discussed in the previous section, the magnitude of the second force 495 may be calculated based on the torque balance on the wheel assembly 460.

[0130] A first force 494 supported by a second tension member 472 can be applied to a first idler pulley 481 and create a second torque 492 on an idler pulley assembly 480. The second torque 492 can force the idler pulley assembly 480 to rotate in a clockwise direction and create a second force 495 on a first section 473A of a third tension member 473. The magnitude of the second force 495 can be calculated by multiplying the magnitude of the first force 494 by the ratio of the radius of the first idler pulley 481 to the radius of a second idler pulley 482. In other words, the idler pulley assembly can scale the first force 494 by a scaling factor (e.g., the ratio of the first radius to the second radius) to create the second force 495.

[0131] Since the third tension member 473 can be a continuous elongated member formed by the first section 473A and a second section 473B, the second force 495 carried by the first section 473A can also be carried by the second section 473B. Accordingly, a third force 496 can be created on the second section 473B. The magnitude of the third force 496 can be equal to the magnitude of the second force 495. Both the second force 495 and the third force 496 can act on an idler pulley 485 in a direction toward a second segment 414 of a support post 410, as Figure 16 shown.

[0132] In a high force orientation (e.g., an anchor 487 can be coupled to the support post 410, as Figure 16 shown), the second force 495 and the third force 496 can be added to create a lifting force 499. In a low force orientation (e.g., the anchor 487 can be coupled to a movable bracket 420, as Figure 9A shown), only the second force 495 can contribute to the lifting force 499. Accordingly, the lifting force 499 in the high force orientation can be twice as large as the lifting force 499 in the low force orientation.

[0133] Figures 17 to 19 is a schematic illustration of a Figure 7 lifting mechanism 100 in accordance with some example configurations of the present disclosure. The lifting mechanism 100 can include a support post 111 and a movable bracket 121. For clarity, the movable bracket 121 is shown as transparent in Figures 17 to 19 the figure.

[0134] The lifting mechanism 100 can also include a coupler mechanism 500. The coupler mechanism 500 can be configured to couple an anchor 247 to the support post 111 (as Figure 18 shown) to place the lifting mechanism 100 in a high force orientation. Alternatively, the coupler mechanism 500 can disconnect the anchor 247 from the support post 111 (e.g., such that the anchor 247 can be coupled to the movable bracket 121, as Figure 19As shown, the lifting mechanism 100 is placed in a low-force orientation. Using the coupler mechanism 500, a user of the lifting mechanism 100 can selectively couple or decouple the anchor 247 to or from the support column 111 to change the orientation of the lifting mechanism 100 between a high-force orientation and a low-force orientation, respectively.

[0135] In some example configurations, the coupler mechanism 500 can include a slider 502 and a slider support 504. The slider support 504 can be coupled to the support column 111. The slider 502 can engage the slider support 504 in a movable manner (e.g., slidably, rotatably, etc.). The slider 502 can be configured to translate relative to the support column 111 within a range of motion 510 ( Figure 17 as shown). The slider support 504 can guide the slider 502 during translation of the slider 502 relative to the support column 111 within the range of motion 510.

[0136] The slider 502 can translate in a first direction 511 ( Figure 18 as shown) or a second direction 512 ( Figure 19 as shown) to engage or disengage from the anchor 247, respectively. In some example configurations, the slider 502 can only engage the anchor 247 when the movable bracket 121 is in a high position (e.g., near the second segment 202).

[0137] In some example configurations, the lifting mechanism 100 can further include a shelf 508. The shelf 508 can be fixedly attached to the movable bracket 121. In the low-force orientation of the lifting mechanism 100, the anchor 247 can sit on the shelf 508. The shelf 508 can be configured to carry the anchor 247 and support a third force 496 acting on the anchor 147 via a third tension member 473. The shelf 508 can be made of any engineering material including, but not limited to, sheet metal, die-cast aluminum, molded plastic, etc. In some example configurations, the shelf 508 and the movable bracket 121 can be formed as a single piece, where the shelf 508 can be formed in the movable bracket 121. For example, the shelf 508 can be a protrusion bent out from the movable bracket 121 (e.g., bent out from Figure 11 the first wall 122 of the movable portion).

[0138] The slider 502 can have a coupled configuration and a decoupled configuration. The slider 502 can translate relative to the support column 111 in the first direction 511 to the coupled configuration, as Figure 18In the coupled configuration, the runner 502 can engage the anchor 247 to couple the anchor 247 to the support column 111. In the coupled configuration, the anchor 247 can remain stationary as the movable bracket 121 translates from the high position toward the low position relative to the support column 111 to place the lifting mechanism in a high force orientation. In the high force orientation, the lifting force 270B can be equal to twice the force supported by the second tensile member 246 (e.g., Figure 10A twice the second force 263 shown).

[0139] In the disconnected configuration, the slide 502 can move relative to the support column 111 along the second direction 512, such as Figure 19 247 can be seated on shelf 508. Shelf 508 and anchor 247 can translate with movable support 121 to place lift mechanism 100 in a low force orientation. In a low force orientation (e.g., slide 502 can be disengaged from anchor 247 and anchor 247 can be coupled to movable support 121, as shown in FIG. Figure 19 ). Lifting force 270A may be equal to the force supported by second tensile member 246 (eg, lifting force 270B may be equal to third force 264 supported by first segment 254, as shown). Figure 9A shown).

[0140] Figures 20 to 21 According to some example configurations of the present disclosure Figures 17 to 19 Schematic diagram of a slide 502 and an anchor 247. The slide 502 can cooperate with the anchor 247 to place the lifting mechanism 100 in a high force orientation or a low force orientation. The slide 502 can be an elongated member located between a first side 502A and a second side 502B opposite the first side 502A. The slide 502 can also have a third side 502C and a fourth side 502D extending between the first side 502A and the second side 502B. A recess 507 can be formed on the third side 502C near the first side 502A. In some example configurations, a notch 509 can be formed at the intersection of the first side 502A and the fourth side 502D. The slide 502 can be formed of any engineering material including, but not limited to, sheet metal, tubes, rods, die-cast aluminum, molded plastics, and the like.

[0141] In some example configurations, the anchor 247 may be an elongated member between the first segment 247A and the second segment 247B. Figure 7As shown in [reference], it can be coupled to the second segment 247B. The anchor 247 can have an anchor body 247C. The anchor 247 can be made of any engineering material including but not limited to metal plates, steel pipes, rods, die-cast aluminum, molded plastics, etc. Openings 241 can be formed on the anchor body 247C near the first segment 247A.

[0142] The slider 502 can be operably coupled to the anchor 247. When the movable bracket 121 is in the high position, the slider 502 can translate in the first direction 511 to place the lifting mechanism 100 in the coupling configuration, as Figure 18 shown. In the coupling configuration, the slider 502 can be inserted into the opening 241 such that the slider 502 is at least partially located within the opening 241. The notch 509 can facilitate the entry of the slider 502 into the opening 241. In the coupling configuration, at least a portion of the recess 507 can overlap with the anchor 247. The force supported by the second tension member 246 (e.g., Figures 9A to 1 the fourth force 265 shown in [reference]) can bias the anchor 247 in the third direction 513, and thus, at least a portion of the anchor 247 can be pulled into the recess 507 as Figure 21 shown to prevent the slider 502 from moving in the second direction 512 opposite to the first direction 511 to release the anchor 247 when the movable bracket 121 moves away from the high position.

[0143] Figure 22 is a partial perspective view of a lifting mechanism 600 according to an exemplary configuration of the present disclosure. The lifting mechanism 600 can have a fixed portion 610 and a movable portion 620. The movable portion 620 can be at least partially located inside the fixed portion 610. The movable portion 620 can be slidably engaged with the fixed portion 610. The movable portion 620 can be configured to translate relative to the fixed portion 610 along a travel range 615. The lifting mechanism 600 can provide height adjustment for components coupled to the movable portion 620. Figure 22 The lifting mechanism 600 can include one or more of the embodiments described in the previous section with respect to Figures 7 to 21 the description.

[0144] In some exemplary configurations, the lifting mechanism 600 can include a coupler mechanism 630 (e.g., similar to Figure 17 the coupler mechanism 500). The coupler mechanism can be coupled to the fixed portion 610 near the first segment 612 (e.g., near the second segment 202 of the Figure 17 lifting mechanism 100). The lifting mechanism 600 can include a slider protrusion 632. The slider protrusion 632 can be fixedly attached to Figure 23 the slider 635 shown in [reference] (e.g., similar to Figure 17The sliding member 502). The sliding member protrusion 632 may be at least partially exposed above the first section 612. The sliding member protrusion 632 and the sliding member 635 may be configured to slide relative to the fixed portion 610 in a first direction 645 or a second direction opposite to the first direction 645. A user of the lifting mechanism 600 may manipulate (e.g., move, rotate, push, etc.) the sliding member protrusion 632 to selectively place the lifting mechanism 600 in a coupling configuration as shown in Figure 18 or in a decoupled configuration as shown in Figure 19 .

[0145] Figure 23 FIG. is a perspective view of the anchor 650 and the sliding member 635 according to an exemplary configuration of the present disclosure. Figure 22 The sliding member protrusion 632 of may be coupled to the sliding member 635. When a user of the lifting mechanism 600 manipulates the sliding member protrusion 632, the sliding member 635 may be adapted to translate along the first direction 645 together with the sliding member protrusion 632.

[0146] The anchor 650 may have a first section 651 and a second section 652. A section 662 of the second tension member 660 (e.g., Figure 17 the second section 246B of the second tension member 246 of ) may be coupled to the second section 652 of the anchor 650, and a recess 670 may be formed in the first section 651 of the anchor 650. The recess 670 may have an open section 672, and a lip 674 may form at least a portion of the periphery of the open section 672. When the sliding member 635 translates in the first direction 645, the sliding member 635 may enter the open section 672 of the recess 670. The sliding member 635 may be at least partially located below the lip 674 to couple the anchor 650 to the fixed portion 610 in the coupling configuration. Thus, as discussed in the previous section, the sliding member 635 may prevent the anchor 650 from translating with the movable portion 620 in the coupling configuration.

[0147] Figure 24 FIG. is a partial schematic view of a lifting mechanism 700 according to an exemplary configuration of the present disclosure. The lifting mechanism 700 may have a fixed portion 702 and a movable portion 704. For clarity, both the fixed portion 702 and the movable portion 704 are shown as transparent. A block 710 may be coupled to the fixed portion 702 near the first section 703 (e.g., near Figure 17 the second section 202 of the lifting mechanism 100 of ). The block 710 may be a circular member having a block axis 711. The block 710 may be rotatably coupled to the fixed portion 702 about the block axis 711. The first section 703 may prevent the block 710 from translating in a direction parallel to the block axis 711.

[0148] The lifting mechanism 700 may include a pin 720. For example, the pin 720 may be an anchor of any of the embodiments of the lifting mechanism discussed previously (e.g., Figure 10A 's anchor). The pin 720 may be coupled to a segment 732 of the second tension member 730 (e.g., Figure 17 the second segment 246B of the second tension member 246). The pin 720 may be an elongated circular member having a pin axis 721. In the disconnected configuration, the pin 720 may rest on a shelf 708 coupled to the movable portion 704, and thus, the pin 720 may be adapted to translate with the movable portion 704.

[0149] Figures 25 to 26 Respectively are Figure 24 schematic views of the block 710 and the pin 720. The block 710 may define a socket 714. The socket 714 may be a circular hole having a hole axis 715. The hole axis 715 may coincide with the block axis 711. The socket 714 may be sized and shaped to receive the pin 720. When the pin 720 is inserted into the socket 714, the pin axis 721 may coincide with the block axis 711. In the coupled configuration, the engagement of the pin 720 with the block 710 may couple the pin 720 to the fixed portion 702.

[0150] The block 710 may further include a ridge 716. The ridge 716 may be formed on the inner surface of the socket 714. The ridge 716 may extend in a radial direction from the inner surface of the socket 714.

[0151] The pin 720 may define a groove 724. The groove 724 may be adapted to receive the ridge 716. When the pin 720 is located inside the socket 714, the block 710 may be rotated relative to the fixed portion 702 to insert the ridge 716 into the groove 724 and fix the pin 720 inside the socket 714. When the movable portion 704 translates relative to the fixed portion 702, the coupling of the pin 720 with the block 710 may inhibit the pin 720 from translating relative to the fixed portion 704.

[0152] Figure 27 is a perspective view of a lifting mechanism 800 according to an example configuration of the present disclosure. The lifting mechanism 800 may include a fixed portion 810 and a movable portion 820 slidably engaged with the fixed portion 810. The fixed portion 810 may extend between a first segment 811 and a second segment 812. The movable portion 820 may be configured to translate relative to the fixed portion 810 between the first segment 811 and the second segment 812. Figure 27 The lifting mechanism 800 of Figure 11 may use one or more features of the lifting mechanism described in the previous section (e.g., use

[0153] Figure 27 The lifting mechanism 800 may further include an anchor 830 and a coupler mechanism 850. The coupler mechanism 850 may be rotatably coupled to the fixed portion 810. The coupler mechanism 850 may selectively engage the anchor 830 to couple the anchor 830 to the fixed portion 810.

[0154] Figure 28 is according to an exemplary configuration of the present disclosure Figure 27 is a perspective view of the anchor 830. The anchor 830 may have a first segment 831 and a second segment 832. A segment 842 (e.g., Figure 17 the second segment 246B of the second tension member 246) of the second tension member 840 may be coupled to the second segment 832 of the anchor 830, and the stud 834 may be coupled to the first segment 831 of the anchor 830. The stud 834 may have a stud body 835 and a stud head 836. The stud body 835 may extend between a first stud segment 837 and a second stud segment 838. The second stud segment 838 may be coupled to the first segment 831 of the anchor 830, and the stud head 836 may be formed on the first stud segment 837. The stud body 835 may have a circular cross-section with a first radius 8351. The stud head 836 may also have a circular cross-section with a second radius 8361. The second radius 8361 may be greater than the first radius 8351. The stud 834 may have a stud axis 839. The stud body 835 and the stud head 836 may be concentric, and the stud axis 839 may be located at the center of the concentricity.

[0155] Figure 29 is according to an exemplary configuration of the present disclosure Figure 27 is a perspective view of the coupler mechanism 850. The coupler mechanism 850 may have a rod 851 having a first rod portion 852 and a second rod portion 853. The rod 851 may be rotatably coupled to the fixed portion 810, and the rod 851 may be configured to rotate about a rod axis 854 relative to the fixed portion 810. The rod 851 may extend along the rod axis 854 between the first rod portion 852 and the second rod portion 853.

[0156] A coupler plate 860 may be coupled to the rod 851 near the first rod portion 852. The coupler plate 860 may extend radially from the rod 851 (e.g., the rod axis 854 may be perpendicular to the coupler plate 860). The coupler plate 860 may be configured to rotate with the rod 851 about the rod axis 854.

[0157] A locking hole 862 may be formed on the connector plate 860. The locking hole 862 may be formed on a circular path 863. The center point of the circular path 863 may be located on the rod axis 854. The locking hole 862 may have an entry hole 865 formed on one end, and a circular groove 866 may extend from the entry hole 865 along the circular path 863. The entry hole 865 may be a circular hole having a radius that is larger than the radius of the stud head 836 (e.g., larger than the second radius 8361). The width of the circular groove 866 may be slightly larger than the radius of the stud body 835 (e.g., larger than the first radius 8351), but smaller than the radius of the stud head 836 (i.e., smaller than the second radius 8361). In a high position of the movable portion 820 (e.g., the movable portion 820 may be located near the second section 812, as shown in FIG. 8B ). Figure 27 As shown), the stud 834 can be at least partially located within the locking hole 862.

[0158] Figures 30 to 31 According to some example configurations of the present disclosure Figure 27 800 of the lifting mechanism 800. In the high position of the movable portion 820, the coupling plate 860 can be configured to rotate in a counterclockwise direction about the rod axis 854 to place the coupling mechanism 850 in the disconnected configuration, such as Figure 30 In the decoupled configuration, the stud head 836 can be concentric with the access hole 865 so that when the movable portion 820 translates relative to the fixed portion 810, the stud head 836 (and therefore, the anchor 830) can be decoupled from the coupler plate 860 and move in a direction parallel to the stud axis 839. The decoupled configuration of the coupler mechanism 850 can correspond to a low force orientation of the lifting mechanism 800.

[0159] In the high position of the movable portion 820, the coupling plate 860 can be rotated in a clockwise direction about the rod axis 854 to place the coupling mechanism 850 in the coupled configuration, such as Figure 31 In the coupled configuration, the stud body 835 can be at least partially located within the circular groove 866, and the stud head 836 can be located above the coupler plate 860. In the coupled configuration, the stud 834 cannot be disengaged from the coupler plate 860, and therefore, the anchor 830 can be coupled to the fixed portion 810, and when the movable portion 820 translates relative to the fixed portion 810, the anchor 830 cannot move with the movable portion 820. The coupled configuration of the coupler mechanism 850 can correspond to a high force orientation of the lifting mechanism 800.

[0160] In some example configurations, the foot 870 may be coupled to the rod 851 near the second portion 853. The foot 870 may extend radially from the rod 851 (e.g., the rod axis 854 may be perpendicular to the foot 870). The foot 870 may be configured to rotate about the rod axis 854 together with the rod 851 and the coupler plate 860. When the rod 851 is rotated in a clockwise direction to place it in the coupled configuration, the foot 870 may rotate toward the movable portion 820. In some example configurations, the foot 870 may interfere with the movable portion 820 to limit the travel of the movable portion 820 in the coupled configuration. When the rod 851 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction to place it in the uncoupled configuration, the foot 870 may rotate away from the movable portion 820 to prevent any interference between the foot 870 and the movable portion 820.

[0161] Additional Notes and Examples

[0162] Example 1 is a lifting mechanism that includes: a fixed portion that extends between a first segment and a second segment, where the fixed portion is capable of being coupled to a structure; and a movable portion that is slidably engaged with the fixed portion, where the movable portion is adapted to receive a component, and where the movable portion is configured to translate relative to the fixed portion within a travel range that includes a high position and a low position to provide height adjustment for the component.

[0163] In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally includes a balance mechanism operatively coupled between the fixed portion and the movable portion, where the balance mechanism is configured to counteract at least a portion of the combined weight of the component and the movable portion.

[0164] In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 optionally includes: where the balance mechanism includes: one or more springs operatively coupled to the first segment of the fixed portion; a wheel assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed portion near the second segment of the fixed portion, where the wheel assembly includes a wheel member and a cam member coupled to the wheel member, where the cam member and the wheel member are concentric, and where the cam member and the wheel member are adapted to rotate together about a wheel axis; and one or more idler pulleys rotatably coupled to the fixed portion or the movable portion.

[0165] In Example 4, the subject matter of Example 3 optionally includes: The balance mechanism further includes an adjustment assembly, wherein the adjustment assembly includes: an adjustment screw rotatably coupled to a first segment of the fixed portion; a first spring plate coupled to a first portion of one or more springs, the first spring plate defining a threaded opening near the center of the first spring plate; and a second spring plate coupled to a second portion of one or more springs; wherein the first spring plate threadedly engages the adjustment screw at the threaded opening, wherein the first spring plate is configured to translate along a portion of the adjustment screw when the adjustment screw rotates, and wherein the adjustment assembly is configured to adjust the tension of one or more springs when the adjustment screw rotates.

[0166] In Example 5, the subject matter of Example 4 optionally includes: a first tension member coupled between the second spring plate and the cam member; and a second tension member extending between the first segment and the second segment, a first segment of the second tension member coupled to the wheel member, routed around one or more idler pulleys, and a second segment coupled to the anchor; wherein the first tension member is configured to transfer a first force generated by one or more springs to the cam member, wherein the second tension member is configured to transfer a second force to the anchor, wherein the second force is defined by torque balance on the wheel assembly, and wherein the second force is adapted to counteract at least a portion of the combined weight of the component and the movable part.

[0167] In Example 6, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 3 to 5 optionally includes: wherein one or more idler pulleys include: a first idler pulley coupled to the fixed portion; and a second idler pulley coupled to the movable part.

[0168] In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 5 to 6 optionally includes: wherein the lifting mechanism is configured to include a high-force orientation and a low-force orientation, wherein the anchor is coupled to the fixed portion in the high-force orientation and the anchor is coupled to the movable part in the low-force orientation.

[0169] In Example 8, the subject matter of Example 7 optionally includes: wherein the lifting mechanism further has a first fastener and a second fastener, wherein the first fastener is configured to engage both the fixed portion and the anchor to place the lifting mechanism in the high-force orientation, and wherein the second fastener is configured to engage both the movable part and the anchor to place the lifting mechanism in the low-force orientation.

[0170] In Example 9, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1 to 8 optionally includes: wherein the lifting mechanism further includes one or more sliders coupled between the fixed portion and the movable portion, and wherein the one or more sliders are configured to provide guidance for the movable portion during translation of the movable portion between a high position and a low position.

[0171] Example 10 is a lifting mechanism, comprising: a fixed portion extending between a first section and a second section, wherein the fixed portion is capable of being coupled to a structure; a movable portion slidably engaged with the fixed portion, wherein the movable portion is adapted to receive a component; a balancing mechanism operatively coupled between the fixed portion and the movable portion; a transition pulley assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed portion, wherein the transition pulley assembly includes a first transition pulley and a second transition pulley coupled to the first transition pulley, and wherein the first transition pulley and the second transition pulley are adapted to rotate in unison relative to the fixed portion; and an idler pulley rotatably coupled to the movable portion; wherein the movable portion is configured to translate relative to the fixed portion within a travel range including a high position near the first section of the fixed portion and a low position near the second section of the fixed portion, wherein the lifting mechanism is configured to provide height adjustment of the component between the high position and the low position, and wherein the balancing mechanism is configured to cooperate with the transition pulley assembly and the idler pulley to counteract at least a portion of the combined weight of the component and the movable portion during height adjustment.

[0172] In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 optionally includes: wherein the balancing mechanism further includes: one or more springs operatively coupled to the first section of the fixed portion; a wheel assembly rotatably coupled to the fixed portion near the second section of the fixed portion, wherein the wheel assembly includes a wheel member and a cam member coupled to the wheel member, and wherein the cam member and the wheel member are concentric and they are adapted to rotate in unison about a wheel axis; a first tension member coupled between the one or more springs and the cam member, wherein the first tension member is configured to transmit the spring force generated by the one or more springs to the cam member; a second tension member extending between the first section and the second section, a first section of the second tension member being coupled to the wheel member and a second section being coupled to the first transition pulley, and wherein the second tension member is configured to transmit a first force to the first transition pulley; and a third tension member extending between the first section and the second section, a first section of the third tension member being coupled to the second transition pulley, disposed around the idler pulley, and a second section being coupled to an anchor, and wherein the third tension member is configured to transmit a second force to the anchor to counteract at least a portion of the combined weight of the component and the movable portion.

[0173] In Example 12, the subject matter of Example 11 optionally includes: wherein the first idler pulley has a first radius and the second idler pulley has a second radius different from the first radius, and wherein the idler pulley assembly is adapted to scale a first force by a ratio of the first radius to the second radius to produce a second force.

[0174] In Example 13, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 11 to 12 optionally includes: wherein the lifting mechanism is configured to have a high force orientation and a low force orientation, and wherein the anchor is coupled to the fixed portion in the high force orientation and the anchor is coupled to the movable portion in the low force orientation.

[0175] In Example 14, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 7 to 13 optionally includes: wherein the lifting mechanism further includes a coupler mechanism, and wherein the coupler mechanism is configured to selectively couple the anchor to the fixed portion to place the lifting mechanism in the high force orientation or to disconnect the anchor from the fixed portion to place the lifting mechanism in the low force orientation.

[0176] In Example 15, the subject matter of Example 14 optionally includes: wherein the coupler mechanism includes: a rod extending between a first section and a second section along a rod axis; and a coupler plate coupled to the rod near the first section of the rod, wherein the rod axis is perpendicular to the coupler plate, and wherein the coupler plate is configured to rotate relative to the fixed portion about the rod axis.

[0177] In Example 16, the subject matter of Example 15 optionally includes: wherein the anchor extends between the first section and the second section, wherein the second section of the anchor is operatively coupled to a balance mechanism, and a stud having a stud body and a stud head is coupled to the first section, and wherein the stud body is formed with a circular cross-section having a first radius and the stud head is formed with a circular cross-section having a second radius greater than the first radius.

[0178] In Example 17, the subject matter of Example 16 optionally includes: wherein the coupler plate includes a keyhole having an entry hole and a slot extending from the entry hole, wherein the slot extends from the entry hole along a circular path to form the keyhole, wherein the width of the slot is less than the radius of the entry hole, wherein the center of the circular path coincides with the rod axis, and wherein the entry hole is adapted to receive the stud head and the slot is adapted to receive the stud body.

[0179] In Example 18, the subject matter of Example 17 optionally includes: wherein the lifting mechanism further includes a shelf coupled to the movable part, wherein the shelf at least partially overlaps the anchor, wherein the coupler plate is configured to rotate in a first direction to align the entry hole with the stud head in a low force orientation, wherein the stud head passes through the entry hole to exit the coupler plate, and the anchor is adapted to rest on the shelf such that the anchor is configured to translate with the movable part in a low force orientation, wherein the coupler plate is configured to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction to align the stud body with the slot in a high force orientation such that the stud body is at least partially within the slot and the stud head is above the coupler plate, and wherein the coupler plate is adapted to capture the stud head during translation of the movable part in a high force orientation and fix the anchor relative to the fixed part.

[0180] In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 optionally includes: wherein the coupler mechanism further includes a foot coupled to the rod near the second section of the rod, wherein the foot extends from the rod in a lateral direction, and wherein the foot is configured to interfere with the movable part when the coupler plate rotates in the second direction to place the lifting mechanism in a high force orientation to limit translation of the movable part relative to the fixed part.

[0181] Each of these non - limiting examples may exist independently or may be combined with one or more of the other examples in various permutations or combinations.

[0182] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings illustrate, by way of example, specific embodiments in which the subject matter may be practiced. Such embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples". Such examples may include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the inventors of the present invention also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Further, the inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or arrangement of those elements (or one or more aspects of those elements) shown or described with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects of a particular example) or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects of other examples) shown or described herein.

[0183] In the case of any inconsistency in usage between this document and any document incorporated by reference, the usage in this document shall prevail.

[0184] In the appended claims, the terms "comprising" and "including" are open-ended, meaning that a system, apparatus, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim is still considered to fall within the scope of that claim. Further, in the appended claims, the terms "first," "second," "third," and the like are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0185] The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above examples (or one or more aspects of the examples) may be used in combination with each other. For instance, other embodiments may be used by those of ordinary skill in the art after reviewing the above description. The abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. The abstract is submitted on the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Additionally, in the above detailed description, various features may be combined together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be construed as intending that the disclosed features that are not claimed are necessary for any claim. Rather, the inventive subject matter may lie in less than all of the features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Accordingly, the appended claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description as examples or embodiments, where each claim stands on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that these embodiments may be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the present subject matter should be determined with reference to the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. A lifting mechanism, comprising: A fixed part that extends between a first section and a second section, wherein the fixed part is capable of being coupled to a structure; and A movable part that is in sliding engagement with the fixed part, wherein the movable part is adapted to receive a component, and wherein the movable part is configured to translate relative to the fixed part within a travel range including a high position and a low position to provide height adjustment for the component.

2. The lifting mechanism according to claim 1 further includes a balance mechanism, the balance mechanism being operably coupled between the fixed portion and the movable portion, wherein, The balance mechanism is configured to counteract at least a part of the combined weight of the component and the movable part.

3. The lifting mechanism according to claim 2, wherein, The balance mechanism includes: One or more springs that are operably coupled to the first section of the fixed part; A wheel assembly that is rotatably coupled to the fixed part near the second section of the fixed part, wherein the wheel assembly includes: A wheel member; and A cam member that is coupled to the wheel member; Wherein the cam member and the wheel member are concentric, and wherein the cam member and the wheel member are adapted to rotate together about a wheel axis; and One or more idler pulleys that are rotatably coupled to the fixed part or the movable part.

4. The lifting mechanism according to claim 3, wherein the balancing mechanism further comprises an adjusting component, where The adjustment assembly includes: An adjustment screw that is rotatably coupled to the first section of the fixed part; A first spring plate that is coupled to a first portion of the one or more springs, and the first spring plate defines a threaded opening near the center of the first spring plate; and A second spring plate that is coupled to a second portion of the one or more springs; Wherein the first spring plate is threadedly engaged with the adjustment screw at the threaded opening, Wherein the first spring plate is configured to translate along a part of the adjustment screw when the adjustment screw rotates, and Wherein the adjustment assembly is configured to adjust the tension of the one or more springs when the adjustment screw rotates.

5. The lifting mechanism according to claim 4, further comprising: A first tension member that is coupled between the second spring plate and the cam member; And A second tension member that extends between the first section and the second section, a first section of the second tension member is coupled to the wheel member, the second tension member is disposed around the one or more idler pulleys, and a second section of the second tension member is coupled to an anchor; Wherein the first tension member is configured to transfer a first force generated by the one or more springs to the cam member, Wherein the second tension member is configured to transfer a second force to the anchor, wherein the second force is defined by torque balance on the wheel assembly, and Wherein the second force is adapted to counteract at least a part of the combined weight of the component and the movable part.

6. The lifting mechanism according to claim 3, wherein, The one or more idler pulleys include: A first idler pulley that is coupled to the fixed part; and A second idler pulley, the second idler pulley being coupled to the movable part.

7. The lifting mechanism according to claim 5, wherein, The lifting mechanism is configured to include a high-force orientation and a low-force orientation, wherein the anchor is coupled to the fixed part in the high-force orientation and the anchor is coupled to the movable part in the low-force orientation.

8. The lifting mechanism according to claim 7, wherein, The lifting mechanism further has a first fastener and a second fastener, wherein the first fastener is configured to engage both the fixed part and the anchor to place the lifting mechanism in the high-force orientation, and wherein the second fastener is configured to engage both the movable part and the anchor to place the lifting mechanism in the low-force orientation.

9. The lifting mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, The lifting mechanism further includes one or more sliders coupled between the fixed part and the movable part, wherein the one or more sliders are configured to provide guidance for the movable part during translation of the movable part between the high position and the low position.

10. A lifting mechanism, comprising: A fixed part, the fixed part extending between a first section and a second section, wherein the fixed part is capable of being coupled to a structure; A movable part, the movable part being in sliding engagement with the fixed part, wherein the movable part is adapted to receive a component; A balance mechanism, the balance mechanism being operably coupled between the fixed part and the movable part; A transition pulley assembly, the transition pulley assembly being rotatably coupled to the fixed part, wherein the transition pulley assembly includes a first transition pulley and a second transition pulley coupled to the first transition pulley, wherein the first transition pulley and the second transition pulley are adapted to rotate together relative to the fixed part; and An idler pulley, the idler pulley being rotatably coupled to the movable part; wherein the movable part is configured to translate relative to the fixed part within a travel range that includes a high position near the first section of the fixed part and a low position near the second section of the fixed part, wherein the lifting mechanism is configured to provide height adjustment of the component between the high position and the low position, and wherein the balance mechanism is configured to cooperate with the transition pulley assembly and the idler pulley to counteract at least a portion of the combined weight of the component and the movable part during the height adjustment.

11. The lifting mechanism according to claim 10, wherein, The balance mechanism further includes: One or more springs, the one or more springs being operably coupled to the first section of the fixed part; A wheel assembly, the wheel assembly being rotatably coupled to the fixed part near the second section of the fixed part, wherein the wheel assembly includes a wheel member and a cam member coupled to the wheel member, wherein the cam member and the wheel member are concentric, and the cam member and the wheel member are adapted to rotate together about a wheel axis; A first tension member that is coupled between the one or more springs and the cam member, wherein the first tension member is configured to transmit a spring force generated by the one or more springs to the cam member; A second tension member that extends between a first section and a second section, the first section of the second tension member being coupled to the wheel member and the second section of the second tension member being coupled to the first idler pulley, wherein the second tension member is configured to transmit a first force to the first idler pulley; and A third tension member that extends between a first section and a second section, the first section of the third tension member being coupled to the second idler pulley, the third tension member being disposed around the idler pulley, and the second section of the third tension member being coupled to the anchor, wherein the third tension member is configured to transmit a second force to the anchor to counteract at least a portion of the combined weight of the component and the movable part.

12. The lifting mechanism according to claim 11, wherein, The first idler pulley has a first radius and the second idler pulley has a second radius different from the first radius, and wherein the idler pulley assembly is adapted to scale the first force by the ratio of the first radius to the second radius to produce the second force.

13. The lifting mechanism according to claim 11, wherein, The lifting mechanism is configured to have a high force orientation and a low force orientation, and wherein the anchor is coupled to the fixed part in the high force orientation and the anchor is coupled to the movable part in the low force orientation.

14. The lifting mechanism according to any one of claims 7 or 13, wherein, The lifting mechanism further includes a coupler mechanism, and wherein the coupler mechanism is configured to selectively couple the anchor to the fixed part to place the lifting mechanism in the high force orientation or to disconnect the anchor from the fixed part to place the lifting mechanism in the low force orientation.

15. The lifting mechanism according to claim 14, wherein, The coupler mechanism includes: A rod that extends between a first section and a second section along a rod axis; and A coupler plate that is coupled to the rod near the first section of the rod, wherein the rod axis is perpendicular to the coupler plate, and wherein the coupler plate is configured to rotate relative to the fixed part about the rod axis.

16. The lifting mechanism according to claim 15, wherein, The anchor extends between a first section and a second section, wherein the second section of the anchor is operatively coupled to the balance mechanism and a stud having a stud body and a stud head is coupled to the first section, and wherein the stud body is formed with a circular cross-section having a first radius and the stud head is formed with a circular cross-section having a second radius greater than the first radius.

17. The lifting mechanism according to claim 16, wherein, The coupler plate includes a keyhole having an entry hole and a slot extending from the entry hole, wherein the slot extends from the entry hole along a circular path to form the keyhole, wherein the width of the slot is less than the radius of the entry hole, wherein the center of the circular path coincides with the rod axis, and Wherein, the entry hole is adapted to receive the stud head, and the slot is adapted to receive the stud body.

18. The lifting mechanism according to claim 17, wherein, The lifting mechanism further includes a shelf coupled to the movable portion, wherein the shelf at least partially overlaps the anchor. Wherein, the connector plate is configured to rotate in a first direction to align the entry hole with the stud head in the low force orientation. Wherein, the stud head passes through the entry hole to exit the connector plate, and the anchor is adapted to rest on the shelf such that the anchor is configured to translate with the movable portion in the low force orientation. Wherein, the connector plate is configured to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction to align the stud body with the slot in the high force orientation such that the stud body is at least partially within the slot and the stud head is above the connector plate, and Wherein, the connector plate is adapted to capture the stud head during translation of the movable portion in the high force orientation and fix the anchor relative to the fixed portion.

19. The lifting mechanism according to claim 18, wherein, The connector mechanism further includes a foot coupled to the rod near the second segment of the rod. Wherein, the foot extends from the rod in a lateral direction, and Wherein, the foot is configured to interfere with the movable portion when the connector plate rotates in the second direction to place the lifting mechanism in the high force orientation to limit translation of the movable portion relative to the fixed portion.

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