Automated standing desk for office spaces

Abstract

A desk that is adjustable between a standing and a sitting configuration, the desk comprising: a tabletop; a height adjustment mechanism to adjust the height of the tabletop between a sitting and a standing configuration; a control system configured to automatically adjust the tabletop from the sitting position to the standing position after a predetermined time.

Description

AREA

[0001] The present application concerns desks that can be adjusted between a standing and a sitting position. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] The technology for the utility model application encompasses various innovations in the field of ergonomic and adjustable workstations. US11771218 (2023) describes a system that uses sensors to detect sitting and standing phases, create a health-based profile, and adjust the desk height accordingly. US10327544B2 (2016) introduces a workstation with adjustable platforms for improved ergonomics. US20230040917A1 (2023) uses sensor relays to monitor user movements on devices such as treadmills. US11172775B2 (2021) presents a dynamic standing mat for light exercise without disrupting concentration. US11033102B2 (2018) discloses a height-adjustable desk system with an arrangement that maintains a horizontal work surface pre-tensioned into an elevated position.These advancements contribute overall to the comfort, health, and ergonomic flexibility of users in work environments. SUMMARY

[0003] The subject matter of the present invention is defined in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Fig. Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a sit-stand desk according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Studies have shown that one of the main causes of health problems in the office is the high frequency of sedentary work. This problem is addressed by the present invention, a standing desk design featuring a novel control mechanism for reducing prolonged sitting. The standing desk has intuitive up and down buttons for height adjustment, a memory button that allows users to save their preferred heights, and a timer-controlled system that automatically adjusts the desk to the user's preferred standing height every thirty minutes, thus breaking up long periods of sitting. The entire development process, including material procurement, the integration of electronics into the desk structure, and the presentation of the results in various graphs, was covered in this project.By combining ergonomic design and technological innovation, this standing desk offers a holistic solution for improving well-being in the workplace. The knowledge and insights gained from this invention contribute to the growing body of literature on sedentary behavior and propose a practical solution for promoting a healthier and more active office environment.

[0005] The following sections provide a detailed description of the components and functions of the standing desk.

[0006] The tabletop (1) is the primary work surface of the standing desk. It is usually made of wood and provides ample space for a computer, documents, and other essential office supplies. The dimensions and design of the tabletop (1) significantly influence the overall functionality and aesthetics of the desk. It is large enough to comfortably accommodate all work materials while also being stable and durable. The material and surface finish of the tabletop (1) affect the overall durability, ease of maintenance, and appearance of the desk, with wood being chosen for its robustness and attractive appearance.

[0007] Alternative implementations for the tabletop (1) may include materials such as metal, glass or composite materials, which may offer improved durability, a modern aesthetic or increased load-bearing capacity depending on the specific needs of the user or design preferences.

[0008] The inner column (2) is an important structural component of the standing desk and supports the entire system by providing support and stability. It is embedded in the outer column (3) and houses the linear actuator that raises and lowers the desk's height. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the inner column (2) contains the actuator, which is operated manually via a first switch (manual raise) and a second switch (manual lower). The user adjusts the height of the desk by pressing these switches until the desired position is reached. Once the desired height is reached, it can be saved in memory using the fourth switch (save). When the desk is subsequently used again, it is automatically set to the saved position by pressing the fifth switch (memory).

[0009] The inner column (2) is usually made of the same material as the outer column (3), e.g., wood or metal, to ensure structural consistency. However, depending on manufacturing or design considerations, alternative materials such as reinforced plastic or aluminum may be used to reduce weight or improve durability.

[0010] The outer column (3) surrounds, as in Fig. The inner column (2), shown in Figure 1, provides the standing desk with additional structural stability and aesthetic appeal. It is typically larger and more visible than the inner column (2) and gives the desk its overall shape and support. The outer column (3) is made of the same materials as the inner column (2), such as wood or metal, and improves the stability and rigidity of the desk. It is connected to the base plate (4), which provides the foundation for the entire desk.

[0011] Alternative materials for the outer pillar (3) could include carbon fiber or high-strength polymers, which offer advantages such as lower weight or increased stiffness depending on the desired design properties.

[0012] The linear actuator is responsible for driving the height adjustment mechanism of the desk. It is a 12V unit with a current of 2A and a stroke length of 500 mm, located in the outer column. This actuator was selected to meet the desk's requirements for power and stroke length, providing smooth and controlled vertical movement. It is crucial for enabling users to effortlessly transition from sitting to standing and serves as the primary lifting mechanism, adjusting the desk height to the user's preference.

[0013] Alternative implementations could include linear actuators with different specifications, such as 24V units, different current ratings, or alternative stroke lengths to accommodate different table sizes or load capacities. Furthermore, hydraulic or pneumatic actuators could replace the electric linear actuator for certain performance requirements.

[0014] The base plate (4) serves as the foundation of the standing desk and ensures stability and inertia for the entire structure. It is typically made of wood, supports the weight of the desk, and prevents tipping or slipping during use. The base plate (4) is designed so that the desk remains stable and level even at its full height. Its design includes adjustable leveling feet or pads to compensate for uneven floors and ensure a stable work surface.

[0015] Alternative materials for the base plate (4) can be steel, aluminum, or reinforced composites, which can improve stability or reduce weight. Instead of adjustable feet, alternative stabilizing features such as weighted bases or non-slip mats can also be incorporated.

[0016] The control box (5) has a housing containing the electronic components, including the Arduino Uno R3 and the BTS7960 43A H-bridge high-performance stepper motor driver module. The Arduino Uno R3 serves as the central processing unit, interpreting sensor inputs, processing user commands, and controlling the motor to adjust the desk height. Its programmability allows it to be adapted to the needs of different users. The BTS7960 motor controller module regulates the power of the linear actuator (6), with its H-bridge configuration providing bidirectional control for smooth transitions between raising and lowering the desk.

[0017] The control box (5) has five buttons, each of which performs a specific function: a. Manual Lifting (First Switch): This button allows the desk to be manually raised to the desired height while it is pressed, thus ensuring an individual and tailored environment for the specific needs of each user. b. Manual lowering (second switch): When pressed, this button triggers a controlled lowering of the desk, adhering to the set parameters for safe and precise adjustment. c. Reset (Third Switch): This switch immediately resets the table height to the basic position when pressed, regardless of the current or previous height, thus enabling a quick and efficient return to the initial value. d. Save (Fourth Switch): Pressing this button saves the current position of the desk to the Arduino Uno's memory, allowing users to precisely take their preferred height with them and recall it later. e. Memory (Fifth Switch): This button allows users to return the desk to a previous position. After being pressed, the desk adjusts precisely to the height stored in the Arduino Uno's memory, providing a personalized and efficient work experience. A timer function is integrated into this button, automatically raising the desk after 30 minutes of use to prevent prolonged sitting, which can lead to musculoskeletal and other health problems. The timer is activated when the desk is in use and within a specific height range (configurable in the program). After 30 minutes, the desk slowly rises to a previously stored standing height, prompting the user to stand up without obstructing their work. A buzzer integrated into this button alerts the user one minute before the adjustment.

[0018] Alternative implementations for the control box (5) could include various microcontrollers (e.g., Raspberry Pi, ESP32) or motor drivers (e.g., L298N, DRV8833) to meet cost or functional preferences. The buzzer could be replaced by visual indicators (e.g., LEDs) or haptic feedback for user alerts.

[0019] The 12V 3A switching power supply (SMPS) provides power for the automatic desk system. It delivers a stable 12V output at 3A, ensuring a constant and reliable power supply to the components, including the linear actuator, Arduino Uno R3, and BTS7960 motor controller. This consistent and reliable power supply contributes to the overall efficiency and performance of the standing desk.

[0020] Alternative power supplies could include devices with different output voltages (e.g., 24 V) or higher current capacities to accommodate fluctuations in system components. Battery-powered options could also be implemented for mobility or use in areas without mains power.

[0021] The height-adjustable standing desk described herein combines ergonomic design and technological innovation to counteract sedentary behavior in office environments. With intuitive manual controls, a memory function, and a timed automatic adjustment system, it provides a practical solution for improving workplace well-being. The detailed development process, including material selection and electronic integration, ensures a robust and user-friendly design. This invention contributes to a growing number of solutions that promote a healthier and more active office environment. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 11771218

[0002] US 10327544B2

[0002] US 20230040917A1

[0002] US 11172775B2

[0002] US 11033102B2

[0002]

Claims

[1] Desk that is adjustable between a standing and a sitting configuration, the desk comprising: a tabletop; a height adjustment mechanism to adjust the height of the tabletop between a sitting and a standing configuration; a control system configured to automatically adjust the tabletop from the sitting position to the standing position after a predetermined time. [2] Desk according to claim 1, comprising a first knob for increasing the height of the tabletop. [3] Desk according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a second knob for reducing the height of the tabletop. [4] Desk according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a third button for resetting the height of the tabletop to the sitting position. [5] Desk according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a fourth button for storing a height of the tabletop in the sitting and / or standing position. [6] Desk according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a fifth knob for adjusting the height of the tabletop to the standing configuration. [7] Desk according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control is configured to trigger an audible and / or visual warning before the tabletop is automatically moved from the sitting position to the standing position.

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