Self-adjusting laptop stand with posture analysis and mobile monitoring

Abstract

A self-adjusting laptop stand consisting of: an upper module with posture sensors to detect the user's posture; a processing unit for real-time analysis of posture data; and a multi-axis motorized adjustment mechanism to change the height, tilt, and swivel of the upper module, with the stand automatically adapting to the detected posture.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to ergonomic workplace equipment, in particular a motorized laptop stand with integrated posture detection, health analysis and app control to improve user ergonomics and reduce the risk of lack of exercise through automatic height, tilt and swivel adjustment. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Prolonged computer use is associated with musculoskeletal strain and poor posture, which has driven the development of height-adjustable desks and stands. However, many solutions lack integrated sensors and analytics to personalize ergonomics and encourage healthier behavior in real time. While motorized height-adjustable desktop systems and display mounts demonstrate practical mechanisms for motorized movement, they typically do not combine posture tracking with autonomous control linked to user habits and feedback loops from mobile health apps. Studies on posture monitoring using pressure measurement, IMUs, and image processing demonstrate effective classification and feedback.App-based systems can record sitting time and provide recommendations, opening up the possibility of integrating sensors and analytics directly into a laptop stand and thus optimizing ergonomics in a closed-loop system. German utility model protection favors product / system claims and allows for rapid registration without substantive review. Therefore, a device-oriented claim profile is suitable for market entry and enforcement in Germany. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to a self-adjusting laptop stand. This stand consists of an upper module with integrated posture sensors, a processing unit for analyzing the user's posture and habits, and a multi-axis motor mechanism for automatic or manual adjustment of height, tilt, and rotation. A lower module houses a battery and allows manual control for increased safety and uninterrupted operation. A mobile app connects via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and provides personalized information such as posture recommendations, sedentary time analysis, and reminder functions. Voice control enables hands-free operation. The configurable architecture supports modular upgrades of sensors, batteries, and firmware to expand the range of functions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0004] The stand features a stable platform for laptops up to standard sizes. Equipped with posture sensors, such as inertial sensors, proximity / image sensors, and pressure sensors under the palm rests, it detects postural problems like rounded back, neck tilt, and asymmetrical strain—typical characteristics of poor posture. An integrated processing unit combines sensor data to determine ergonomically relevant angles and classify posture states, employing thresholding methods and machine learning models similar to those used in IoT posture systems. Simultaneously, sitting time is recorded to assess cumulative sitting strain. The drive system consists of a multi-axis mechanism—height adjustment, tilt joint, and swivel base—powered by low-noise motors and linkages inspired by motorized desktop and monitor mounts.This ensures precise and repeatable movement with end-stop sensors and firmware control. The lower module houses a battery designed for a typical workday with occasional adjustments, as well as power electronics and a manual override button. This button immediately deactivates the motors and locks the current position to ensure safety and compliance in shared or public environments. Wireless connectivity allows for the integration of a mobile app for configuration, health analysis, and over-the-air updates. The app provides posture recommendations, sit-time analysis, and ergonomic targets, aligning with scientific literature that emphasizes feedback and habit tracking for improved adherence and well-being.A voice assistant enables hands-free control of height, tilt, and rotation, and can remind users to change posture or stand up via voice prompts. Visual and audible alerts on the stand inform users of detected incorrect postures, with adjustable thresholds and a snooze function. The control firmware saves user profiles and adapts the adjustment strategies over time by learning typical working positions and preferred working hours. It also features safety locks against sudden movements and detects obstacles to prevent pinching or tipping during operation. A modular architecture allows for the replacement or upgrade of sensor boards, batteries, and communication modules without altering the mechanical core.This enables future enhancements such as additional biometric data or advanced computer-aided posture recognition, as demonstrated in projects with automatic laptop stands. The mechanical design uses lightweight alloys or composite materials with damping to reduce vibrations during movement and includes non-slip pads and cable management. The rotating base has a stable footprint to compensate for a higher center of gravity at maximum height. The system supports adherence to ergonomic guidelines by guiding users to neutral viewing angles and elbow / wrist positions through automatic adjustments and periodic micro-movements. It complements the benefits of height-adjustable desks while offering posture-aware automation.

Claims

[1] A self-adjusting laptop stand comprising: an upper module with posture sensors for detecting the user's posture; a processing unit for real-time analysis of the posture data; and a multi-axis motorized adjustment mechanism for changing the height, tilt and swivel of the upper module, whereby the stand automatically adjusts to the detected posture. [2] Laptop stand according to claim 1, further comprising: a lower module with a rechargeable battery for powering the motors and a manual override configured to stop the motorized movement and maintain the current position for safety reasons. [3] Laptop stand according to claim 1, further comprising: a mobile application configured to provide personalized health information including posture recommendations and sitting time analysis and to receive configuration updates via a wireless connection. [4] Laptop stand according to claim 1, further comprising: a voice assistant interface configured to accept voice commands for hands-free control and an alarm system that issues visual and audible alerts when poor posture is detected based on configurable thresholds.