Display support structure

Abstract

A support structure (10) for supporting a display, wherein the support structure (10) comprises a base element (50) and an arm (14) coupled to the base element, the arm extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, and the support structure (10) further comprises a head (18) that movably supports the display on the arm, and a linkage assembly (66) that is movable along a longitudinal axis. The linkage assembly includes springs having a plurality of spring constants set to generate a force that reacts to the weight of the display in order to maintain the display in a plurality of positions relative to the surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a support structure, particularly a support structure for a monitor or display.

[0002] 〔Citation of Related Applications〕 This application is a claim of priority application to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 420,806, filed on October 31, 2022. This U.S. Provisional Patent Application is incorporated by reference in its entirety and made a part of this specification.

Background Art

[0003] Displays, such as computer monitors, TVs, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), etc., are often attached to a lifting support device, such as a support arm, and then the support arm is fixed to a surface. As a result, the display is held above or in front of the surface. Often, users desire to adjust the height or placement of the display relative to the surface to obtain a good view of the display.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, many support structures for displays are difficult to adjust and require a great deal of effort by the user to adjust the height or placement of the display. Further, many support structures are complex in structure and costly to manufacture.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] In one aspect, the present invention provides a support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising a base element and an arm coupled to the base element, the arm extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, the support structure further comprising a head movably supporting a display on the arm and a linkage assembly that is movable along the longitudinal axis, the linkage assembly comprising springs having a plurality of spring constants set to generate forces that react to the weight of the display in order to maintain the display in a plurality of positions relative to a surface.

[0006] In another aspect, the present invention provides a support structure for supporting a display, the support structure comprising a base element and an arm rotatably coupled to the base element, the arm defining a longitudinal axis extending between a first end of the arm and a second end of the arm, and the support structure further comprising a head for movably supporting a display on the arm and a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly includes a slider that can move along the longitudinal axis, a first link rotatably coupled to the base element and the slider, a second link rotatably coupled to the slider and the head, and a spring housed within the slider.

[0007] In another aspect, the present invention provides a support structure for supporting a display, characterized by having an arm extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, and a tilt head rotatably coupled to the first end of the arm. The tilt head has a joint body movably coupled to the support structure, a pan head that is receptacle-like within the joint body and can move relative to the joint body, and a ring receptacle-like within the pan head. The ring can move relative to the pan head to adjust the display to a plurality of different tilt angles. The ring is rotatable relative to the pan head to adjust the display to a plurality of different rotation angles relative to the surface. A linkage assembly is housed within the arm and coupled to the tilt head. The linkage assembly is configured to rotate the tilt head as the arm rotates to counteract the rotation of the arm and maintain a consistent orientation of the tilt head.

[0008] Other aspects of the present invention will become apparent by considering the detailed description and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the support structure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a side view of the support structure. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a plan view of the support structure. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a partially exploded assembly diagram of the support structure. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the support structure from the side, with some parts omitted. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the support structure from the side, with some parts omitted. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of the support structure shown in Figure 1, taken along the line 7-7 in Figure 3. [Figure 8] Figure 1 is a side view of the joint of the support structure. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of the support structure shown in Figure 1, taken along line 7-7 in Figure 3, at the first position. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view of the support structure shown in Figure 1, taken along line 7-7 in Figure 3, at the second position. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view of the support structure shown in Figure 1, taken along line 7-7 in Figure 3, at a third position. [Figure 12] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the head of the support structure. [Figure 13] Figure 12 is an exploded view of the head assembly. [Figure 14] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the head, showing it with some parts omitted. [Figure 15] Figure 12 is a side view of the head, with some parts omitted. [Figure 16] Figure 12 is a side view of the head, with some parts omitted. [Figure 17] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the end of the support structure. [Figure 18] Figure 12 is a side view of the head, with some parts omitted. [Figure 19] Figure 12 is a side view of the head, with some parts omitted. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Before describing any embodiment of the present invention in detail, it should be understood that the uses of the present invention are not limited to the structural and arrangement details of the components described in the following description or shown in the following drawings. Other embodiments of the present invention are available and can be implemented or performed in various ways. It should be understood that the description of a particular embodiment does not limit the disclosure to include all modifications, equivalents, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It should also be understood that the words and terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered to limit the present invention.

[0011] Figure 1 shows a support structure 10 configured to support a display. In some embodiments, the display may be a computer monitor, screen, TV, or other display. The support structure 10 may be coupled to a base. In some embodiments, the base may be a horizontal base, such as a desktop or tabletop. In other embodiments, the base may be a vertical base, such as a wall or post. The support structure 10 can be moved to a number of positions so that the display can be positioned in a way preferred by the user. Thus, the support structure 10 can be moved to various positions to provide a good view of the display.

[0012] Referring to FIG. 1, the support structure 10 has an arm assembly 14 and a head 18 for movably supporting a display on the arm assembly 14. The arm assembly 14 may optionally include a clamp 22 that can be fixed to the edge of a base (e.g., a table or desk). The clamp 22 may have a C-shaped bracket 26 with a channel 30 for receiving the table or desk. The C-shaped bracket 26 may be integrally formed as a single structure. In other embodiments, the C-shaped bracket 26 may be formed as two or more separate structures. The clamp 22 further has a fastener 34 that extends into the channel 30 and secures the support structure 10 to the base. The fastener 34 has a flange 38 with a flat surface that engages the base. The clamp 22 may optionally have a knob connected to the fastener 34, by which a user can tighten or loosen the clamp 22 (not shown). In other embodiments, the knob may be a screw head that can receive a tool for tightening or loosening the clamp 22 (not shown).

[0013] When positioning the support structure 10 for use, the user may tighten the clamp 22 and secure the support structure 10 to the base. In other embodiments, the clamp 22 may have an L-shaped bracket integrally formed as a single structure or an L-shaped bracket formed as two or more separate structures. Further, in other embodiments, the support structure 10 may have other means for coupling to the base.

[0014] Figures 2 and 4 show the arm assembly 14 as an exemplary embodiment. The following description is illustrative, and some specific aspects and features of the arm assembly 14 may be different in other embodiments. For example, the dimensions, shapes, numbers of arms, and coupling mechanisms of the arm assembly 14 may vary in other embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the arm assembly 14 includes a first arm 42, a second arm 46, and a joint 50 for movably connecting the second arm 46 to the first arm 42. The clamp 22 is coupled to the first arm 42 so as to couple the arm assembly 14 to the base. The head 18 is coupled to the second arm 46 so as to couple the display to the arm assembly 14. The first arm 42 and the second arm 46 may also have various shapes in other embodiments.

[0015] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the first arm 42 has a first end 54 and a second end 58 opposite the first end 54. In some embodiments, the first arm 42 may be an elongated S-shaped arm. The first end 54 of the first arm 42 is coupled to the clamp 22. In some embodiments, the first arm 42 may be integrally formed as a single structure. In other embodiments, the first arm 42 may be formed as two or more separate structures.

[0016] Figures 2 and 4 show the joint 50 disposed between the first arm 42 and the second arm 46. The joint 50 may also be referred to as a base element. The joint 50 includes a joint slot 62 that receives a portion of a linkage assembly 66 described in detail below. The joint 50 is coupled to the second end 58 of the first arm 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the joint 50 may be integrally formed as a single structure. In other embodiments, the joint 50 may be formed as two or more separate structures.

[0017] Referring to Figures 1 and 3, the second arm 46 includes a first half 70 and a second half 74. The first half 70 and the second half 74 of the second arm 46 are joined together to form a second arm cavity 78. In other words, the first half 70 of the second arm 46 constitutes a portion of the second arm cavity 78, and the second half 70 of the second arm 46 forms a portion of the second arm cavity 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the second arm 46 may be formed as two or more separate structures. In other embodiments, the second arm 46 may be formed as a single, integrated structure.

[0018] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the second arm 46 includes a first end 82 and a second end 86 opposite to the first end 82. The longitudinal axis L passes through the center of the second arm 46 between the first end 82 and the second end 86. In some embodiments, the second arm 46 may be a straight or elongated straight arm extending between the first end 82 and the second end 86. In some embodiments, the second arm 46 is connected to the joint 50 by a joint pin 90. In other embodiments, the second arm 46 is connected to the joint 50 by a fastener.

[0019] Figures 5 and 7 show a linkage assembly 66 as an exemplary embodiment. The following description is illustrative, and certain aspects and features of the linkage assembly 66 may differ in other embodiments. For example, the dimensions, shape, number of links, and the coupling mechanism of the linkage assembly 66 may vary in other embodiments. The linkage assembly 66 may be housed within the second arm 46, particularly within the second arm cavity 78. In other embodiments, the linkage assembly 66 may be coupled to the second arm 46 outside the second arm cavity 78. The linkage assembly 66 may be able to move along the longitudinal axis L. The linkage assembly 66 may include a three-bar linkage assembly configured such that the head 18 (and thus the display) remains "relatively parallel" or "rotationally fixed" to a surface (e.g., a desk or table) when the second arm 46 is rotated in direction A (Figure 9). In particular, when the second arm 46 rotates relative to a stationary surface, such as a wall or desk, the head 18 rotates relative to the second arm 46 so that the head 18 maintains a substantially constant rotational position relative to the stationary surface. In other words, despite the movement of the second arm 46 relative to the stationary surface, the head 18 is rotationally fixed relative to the stationary surface so that the orientation of the display remains the same. As shown in Figures 9 to 11, the head assembly remains in the same rotational position regardless of the orientation of the second arm 46. It should be understood that the position of the head 18 relative to the stationary surface does not have to be perfect, and there may be a range of tens of degrees (i.e., an error range) that allows the head 18 to have some degree of rotational variation.

[0020] Continuing to refer to Figures 5 and 7, in the illustrated embodiment, the linkage assembly 66 includes a slider 94, a first link 98, and a second link 102. The slider 94, the first link 98, and the second link 102 form a three-bar linkage assembly, which can keep the head 18 in a consistent orientation at all times, regardless of the angle of the second arm 46. The linkage assembly 66 may further include a spring 110 that helps maintain the linkage assembly 66 and thus the position of the display in a desired position. In some embodiments, the linkage assembly 66 may optionally include an adjustment screw 106 for adjusting the spring 110. However, in other embodiments where a constant orientation of the head 18 can be maintained, other techniques for designing the three-bar linkage assembly may exist. As will be described in detail below, the linkage assembly 66 is configured to generate a force that counteracts the weight of the display in order to maintain the display in multiple positions above the surface.

[0021] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the slider 94 has a first part 114 and a second part 118. The first part 114 and the second part 118 are joined together to form a slider cavity 122. In other embodiments, the slider 94 may be formed as a single, integrated structure. The slider 94 has a first end portion 126 and a second end portion 130 opposite to the first end portion 126. The slider 94 is housed within a second arm 46. More specifically, the slider 94 is housed within a second arm cavity 78. The slider 94 is preferably able to move along its longitudinal axis L. In other words, the slider 94 is preferably slidable along its longitudinal axis L within the second arm cavity 78.

[0022] As shown in Figure 7, the first link 98 is positioned between the joint 50 and the slider 94. The first link 98 is sometimes also called a power link. In particular, the first link 98 is connected to the joint 50 by a first pin 134 and to the slider 94 by a second pin 138. In other words, the first link 98 is connected to the first end portion 126 of the slider 94 by the second pin 138. In some embodiments, the first link 98 is preferably configured to transmit force from the spring 110 to the joint 50.

[0023] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the first pin 134 of the first link 98 is positioned relative to the joint pin 90. The joint axis 142 passes through the longitudinal center of the joint pin 90. The pin axis 146 passes through the longitudinal center of the first pin 134. In some embodiments, the pin axis 146 is located below and in front of the joint axis 142 when the support 10 is viewed in cross-sectional view as shown in Figure 7. In other words, the pin axis 146 is located closer to the second end 86 of the second arm 46 and the first arm 42 compared to the joint axis 142.

[0024] As shown in Figure 8, the joint pin 90 defines a virtual circle 150 whose center is located at the joint axis 142 when the joint 50 is viewed in a side or cross-sectional view of the support structure 10. The virtual circle 150 has a radius measured from the joint axis 142 to a point located far from the joint axis 142. In some embodiments, the radius of the virtual circle 150 is preferably in the range of 8 mm to 16 mm. In other embodiments, the radius of the virtual circle 150 is preferably in the range of 8 mm to 12 mm, 9 mm to 13 mm, 10 mm to 14 mm, 11 mm to 15 mm, or 12 mm to 16 mm. For example, the radius of the virtual circle 150 may be 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, or 16 mm.

[0025] As shown in Figure 8, the pin axis 146 is preferably located within the virtual circle 150. In other words, the location of the pin axis 146 is within the boundary of the virtual circle 150. In other words, the pin axis 146 is preferably not located outside the boundary of the virtual circle 150. By positioning the first pin 134 (i.e., the pin axis 146) in this way relative to the joint pin 90 (i.e., the joint axis 142), the first link 98 is positioned substantially parallel to the slider 94 and the second link 102. In some embodiments, positioning the first link 98 substantially parallel to the slider 94 and the second link 102 causes the linkage assembly 66 to generate a spring force suitable for supporting the second arm 46 with respect to a preferred range of display weight and a preferred range of position in direction A.

[0026] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the second link 102 is positioned between the slider 94 and the head 18. More specifically, the second link 102 is connected to the slider 94 by a first pin 154 and to the head 18 by a second pin 158. In particular, the second link 102 is connected to the second end portion 130 of the slider 94 by the first pin 154. In some embodiments, the second link 102 is preferably configured to convert the sliding or linear motion of the slider 94 into rotational motion of the head 18 in direction B (Figure 9).

[0027] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the adjustment screw 106 is housed within the second arm cavity 78. The adjustment screw 106 is preferably inserted at the first end 82 of the second arm 46. The adjustment screw 106 passes through the joint slot 92 and the slider 94 (Figure 5). The adjustment screw 106 has a distal end portion 162 and an end plate 166 coupled to the distal end portion 162. In some embodiments, the adjustment screw 106 is configured to adjust the position of the end plate 166, thereby increasing or decreasing the length of the spring 110. By adjusting the length of the spring 110, the force that the spring 110 exerts on the slider 94 and on the first link 98, which is rotatably connected to the joint 50, can be increased or decreased. In some embodiments, the force that the spring 110 exerts on the slider 94 acts in response to the weight of the display to maintain the display in a desired position (e.g., height). In other words, when the user adjusts the support structure 10 to the desired display height, the spring 110 helps to automatically maintain the display at the desired height without the need for a locking mechanism to keep the support structure 10 in place.

[0028] The force applied by the spring 110 to the slider 94 can be adjusted to support a certain range of display weights. The linkage assembly 66 allows a range of displays with varying weights to be supported above the surface at multiple positions.

[0029] As shown in Figure 6, the second arm 46 has a ledge (shelf-like projection) 170 extending from the side wall of the second arm 46. The ledge 170 may extend from the side wall of the second arm 46 into the second arm cavity 78. The end plate 166 may be in contact with or abut against the ledge 170. In some embodiments, the end plate 166 is in contact with the ledge 170 when the spring 110 is relaxed, and the end plate 166 is separated from the ledge 170 when the spring 110 is compressed.

[0030] Figures 6 and 7 show the spring 110 housed within the slider 94. In some embodiments, the spring 110 may be a compression spring. The spring 110 may exhibit multiple spring constants. In one embodiment, the spring 110 may be a dual-rate spring with two spring constants. In some embodiments, the spring 110 includes a first portion 174 indicating a first spring constant and a second portion 178 indicating a second spring constant. The first spring constant may be different from the second spring constant. In these embodiments, the first portion 174 of the spring 110 may have a first pitch, and the second portion 178 of the spring 110 may have a second pitch. The first pitch may be different from the second pitch. In other embodiments, the spring 110 may have two or more spring constants, for example, three, four, or five.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first portion 174 of the spring 110 is preferably located adjacent to the first end portion 126 of the slider 94, and the second portion 178 of the spring 110 is preferably located adjacent to the second end portion 130. In other embodiments, the second portion 178 of the spring 110 is preferably located adjacent to the first end portion 126 of the slider 94, and the first portion 174 of the spring 110 is preferably located adjacent to the second end portion 130 of the slider 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 174 has a first pitch, and the second portion 178 has a second pitch, in which case the first pitch is smaller than the second pitch. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 174 represents a first spring constant, and the second portion 178 represents a second spring constant, in which case the first spring constant is smaller than the second spring constant. In some embodiments, the multiple spring constants of the spring 110 can be said to take into account the precise or gradual application of force to the slider 94 to support a certain weight range of the display, compared to prior art springs that utilize a single spring constant.

[0032] To explain the operation, as shown in Figures 9 to 11, it is preferable to rotate the arm assembly 14, particularly the second arm 46, to multiple positions along direction A (and vice versa). Specifically, the second arm 46 can rotate about the joint axis 142. In some embodiments, the second arm 46 can move to an upper position (Figure 9), a middle position (Figure 10), and a lower position (Figure 11), or to several other intermediate positions. The linkage assembly 66 is configured such that the head 18 to which the display is connected remains rotationally fixed relative to the surface (e.g., a desk), and as a result, the position of the display remains consistent at all positions of the second arm 46. Specifically, a three-bar linkage assembly, which may include a slider 94, a first link 98, and a second link 102, converts linear motion along the longitudinal axis L into rotational motion of the head 18 in direction B (Figure 9). The adjustment screw 106 adjusts the position of the end plate 166 within the slider 94, thereby adjusting the compression of the spring 110 to accommodate a range of display weights, including curved displays, and thereby shifting the center of gravity forward compared to flat displays. The linkage assembly 66 ensures that the arm assembly 14 generates sufficient power to keep the display above the surface at any position along direction A. For example, the linkage assembly 66 ensures that the display does not jump up (i.e., has too much power) when it is in the lower position (Figure 11), and that the arm assembly 14 does not droop (i.e., has too little power) when it is in the upper position (Figure 9).

[0033] Figures 12 and 14 show an exemplary head 18 for movably supporting a display on a support structure 10. In particular, the head 18 is configured to movably support a display on an arm assembly 14. The head 18 is rotatably connected to the distal portion of a second arm 46. The head 18 may also be referred to as a mounting head or tilt head. The head 18 has a joint body 182, a pan head 186, a ring 190, and a tilt adjustment screw 194. As will be described in detail below, the head 18 is configured to adjust the tilt of the display to a plurality of tilt angles, and to adjust the pan of the display to a plurality of pan angles relative to the surface.

[0034] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, the joint body 182 includes a first part 198 and a second part 202. The first part 198 and the second part 202 are joined to each other to form a joint body cavity 206. In the illustrated embodiment, the first part 198 and the second part 202 are preferably joined to each other by fasteners 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the joint body 182 is preferably formed as two or more separate structures. In other embodiments, the joint body 182 may be formed as a single structure. The joint body 182 is joined to the arm assembly 14, in particular to the second arm 46, by joint body pins 214.

[0035] Continuing with Figures 12 and 14, the joint body 182 is connected to the second link 102. More specifically, the second pin 158 of the second link 102 rotatably connects the joint body 182 to the linkage assembly 66. The joint body 182 is configured to rotate in direction B when the slider 94 slides or moves along the longitudinal axis L, when the second arm 46 is adjusted to multiple positions along direction A (Figure 9). The joint body 182 and the linkage assembly 66 can work together to convert the linear motion of the linkage assembly 66 into the rotational motion of the head 18. This is preferably done automatically by the movement of the second arm 64 without further intervention by the operator to adjust the head 18. This is preferably made possible by using a four-bar linkage assembly or a three-bar linkage assembly to help automatically impart the rotational motion of the head 18 that reacts to the rotational motion of the second arm 64. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the joint body 182 and the linkage assembly 66 may be a Scotch yoke mechanism or a reverse Scotch yoke mechanism, resulting in the linear motion of the linkage assembly 66 being converted into rotational motion of the joint body 182. Similarly, the joint body 182 and the linkage assembly 66 may be a sliding crank linkage capable of converting the linear motion of the linkage assembly 66 into rotational motion of the head 18. However, other types of mechanisms may be provided that allow the head 18 to rotate automatically to maintain a consistent orientation relative to a stationary surface, such as a wall or desk.

[0036] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, the panhead 186 includes a first portion 218 and a second portion 222. The first portion 218 and the second portion 222 of the panhead 186 are joined together to form a panhead channel 226. The first portion 218 and the second portion 222 of the panhead 186 are joined together by fasteners 230. In the illustrated embodiment, the panhead 186 may be formed as two or more separate structures. In other embodiments, the panhead 186 may be formed as a single, integrated structure.

[0037] Continuing to refer to Figures 15 and 16, the panhead 186 has a first or apex 234, a second or bottom 238, a first surface 242, and a second surface 246. The first portion 218 and the second portion 222 of the panhead 186 each form a portion of the apex 234, bottom 238, first surface 242, and second surface 246. The panhead channel 226 extends between the apex 234 and bottom 238, and also between the first surface 242 and the second surface 246. It is preferable that the width is measured between the first surface 242 and the second surface 246 (i.e., the lateral width is measured across the panhead channel 226 between the first surface 242 and the second surface 246). In some embodiments, the panhead channel 226 has a variable width between the apex 234 and bottom 238. In some embodiments, the panhead channel 226 has a first width adjacent to the top end 234 and a second width adjacent to the bottom end 238. The second width of the panhead channel 226 is greater than the first width of the panhead channel 226. To describe the operation, the panhead 186 is movably housed within the joint body 282. The panhead 186 rotates relative to the joint body. The panhead 186 is rotatable to a number of rotational positions within the joint body 182.

[0038] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, the ring 190 is preferably a D-ring. In other embodiments, the ring 190 may have a different shape. The ring 190 has a mounting surface 250 configured to support the display. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting surface 250 is diamond-shaped. In other embodiments, the mounting surface 250 may have a different shape suitable for supporting the display. The ring 190 is movably received within the panhead channel 226 to adjust the tilt of the display to a plurality of tilt angles. The ring 190 can move to a plurality of tilt angles in direction C (Figures 15 and 16). Furthermore, the ring 190, together with the panhead 186, is rotatable to a plurality of rotational positions relative to the joint body 182 in direction D (Figure 17). In the illustrated embodiment, the ring 190 is formed as a single, integrated structure. In other embodiments, the ring 190 may be formed as two or more separate structures.

[0039] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the panhead 186 is provided with a recess 254 for receiving an adjustment screw 194. The tilt adjustment screw 194 is sometimes also called a tilt adjustment fastener. The tilt adjustment screw 194 is screw-connected to the panhead 186. The tilt adjustment screw 194 is in contact with the ring 190. In terms of operation, when the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in a first position, it positions the ring 190 closer to the first surface 242, improving the contact between the ring 190 and the first surface 242 of the panhead 186. In some embodiments, the tilt adjustment screw 194 is fully received within the recess 254 in the first position. In other words, when the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the first position, the ring 190 is housed in the panhead channel 226 in a first configuration. The ring 190 can move to a plurality of tilt angles relative to the panhead 186 and the joint body 182. When the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the first position, the ring 190 moves relative to the pan head 186 under the influence of a first frictional force.

[0040] Continuing to refer to Figures 18 and 19, when the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the second position, the tilt adjustment screw 194 positions the ring 190 closer to the second surface 246, improving the contact between the ring 190 and the second surface 246 of the panhead 186. In some embodiments, the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in a retracted position relative to the panhead 186, while still coupled to the panhead 186 in the second position. In other words, when the tilt adjustment screw 194 is in the first position, the ring 190 is housed in the panhead channel 226 in a second configuration. The ring 190 can move to multiple tilt angles relative to the panhead 186 and the joint body 182. When the adjustment screw 194 is in the second position, the ring 190 moves relative to the panhead 186 under a second frictional force, which is greater than the first frictional force.

[0041] Typical features Representative features are described in the following Embodiments section, which can stand alone or be combined in any combination with one or more features disclosed in the text and / or drawings of the specification.

[0042] [Embodiment (1)] A support structure for supporting a display, wherein the support structure is Having a base element, The base element has an arm rotatably connected to it, the arm defining a longitudinal axis extending between a first end and a second end of the arm, The above display has a head that movably supports it on the above arm, A support structure having a linkage assembly that can move along the longitudinal axis, the linkage assembly including a spring having a plurality of spring constants set to generate a force that reacts to the weight of the display in order to maintain the display in a plurality of positions relative to the surface.

[0043] [Embodiment (2)] The support structure according to Embodiment (1), wherein the linkage assembly is configured to maintain a consistent orientation of the head relative to the surface when the arm is adjusted to the plurality of positions.

[0044] [Embodiment (3)] The support structure according to Embodiment (1), wherein the linkage assembly includes a slider, a base element and a first link rotatably connected to the slider, and a second link rotatably connected to the slider and the head.

[0045] [Embodiment (4)] The above-mentioned spring is housed within the above-mentioned slider and is a support structure according to any one of the embodiments (1) to (3).

[0046] [Embodiment (5)] The support structure according to any one of embodiments (1) to (4), wherein the spring is configured to apply force to the slider and react against the weight of the display, thereby automatically maintaining the display above the surface.

[0047] [Embodiment (6)] The support structure according to Embodiment (1), wherein the spring comprises a first portion having a first spring constant and a second portion having a second spring constant greater than the first spring constant, the second spring constant being located closer to the head than the first spring constant.

[0048] [Embodiment (7)] The support structure according to embodiment (1), wherein the head has a joint body movably connected to the arm, and the joint body is rotatably connected to the linkage assembly.

[0049] [Embodiment (8)] The support structure according to any one of embodiments (1) to (7), wherein the joint body and the linkage assembly are configured to convert the linear motion of the linkage assembly into rotational motion of the joint body.

[0050] [Embodiment (9)] The support structure according to any one of embodiments (1) to (8), wherein the head further comprises a ring that movably supports a pan head and a display movably received within the joint body and on the arm.

[0051] [Embodiment (10)] The support structure according to any one of embodiments (1) to (9), wherein the ring is slidable within the pan head to adjust the tilt of the display, and the pan head is rotatable relative to the joint body to adjust the pan angle of the display.

[0052] [Embodiment (11)] A support structure for supporting a display, wherein the support structure is Having a base element, The base element has an arm rotatably connected to it, the arm defining a longitudinal axis extending between a first end and a second end of the arm, The above display has a head that movably supports it on the above arm, It has a linkage assembly, and the linkage assembly is A slider that can move along the longitudinal axis mentioned above, The base element and the slider are rotatably connected to the first link, A second link rotatably connected to the slider and the head, A support structure including a spring housed within the slider mentioned above.

[0053] [Embodiment (12)] The support structure according to Embodiment (11), wherein the linkage assembly is configured to maintain a consistent orientation of the head relative to the surface when the arm is adjusted to the plurality of positions.

[0054] [Embodiment (13)] The support structure according to embodiment (11) or (12), wherein the spring is configured to apply force to the slider and react with the weight of the display, thereby automatically maintaining the display above the surface.

[0055] [Embodiment section (14)] The support structure according to embodiment (11), wherein the head has a joint body movably connected to the arm, and the joint body and the linkage assembly are configured to convert the linear motion of the linkage assembly into rotational motion of the joint body.

[0056] [Embodiment section (15)] The support structure according to Embodiment (11), wherein the spring comprises a first portion having a first spring constant and a second portion having a second spring constant greater than the first spring constant, the second spring constant being located closer to the head than the first spring constant.

[0057] [Embodiment (16)] A support structure for supporting a display, wherein the support structure is It has an arm extending along the longitudinal axis between the first end and the second end, The first end of the arm has a tilting head that is rotatably coupled, and the tilting head is A joint body movably connected to the above support structure, A pan head that is receptacled within the above-mentioned joint body and can move relative to the above-mentioned joint body, The panhead has a ring that is received within it, the ring which can move with the panhead to adjust the display to a plurality of different tilt angles, and the ring which is rotatable relative to the panhead to adjust the display to a plurality of different rotation angles relative to the surface. A support structure comprising a linkage assembly housed within the arm and connected to the inclined head, wherein the linkage assembly is configured to rotate the inclined head when the arm rotates in a manner that resists the rotation of the arm and maintains a consistent orientation of the inclined head throughout its life.

[0058] [Embodiment (17)] The support structure according to Embodiment (16), wherein the linkage assembly includes a plurality of springs having a plurality of spring constants set to generate a force that acts in reaction to the weight of the display in order to maintain the display in a plurality of positions relative to the surface.

[0059] [Embodiment (18)] The support structure according to embodiment (16), wherein the panhead includes a first portion and a second portion coupled to the first portion, and together the first portion and the second portion constitute a channel for receiving the ring.

[0060] [Embodiment (19)] A support structure according to any one of embodiments (16) to (18), further comprising a screw screwably coupled to the panhead, the screw configured to adjust the ring between a first and a second form.

[0061] [Embodiment section (20)] The support structure according to any one of embodiments (16) to (19), wherein the ring is able to move within the channel in the first embodiment by receiving a first frictional force, and the ring is able to move within the channel by receiving a second frictional force greater than the first frictional force.

[0062] While the present invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within one or more independent viewpoints and spirits of the invention as described above.

[0063] Various features of the present invention are described in the following claims.

Claims

1. A support structure for supporting a display, wherein the support structure is Having a base element, The base element has an arm rotatably coupled to it, the arm defining a longitudinal axis extending between a first end of the arm and a second end of the arm, The display has a head that movably supports the display on the arm, A support structure having a linkage assembly that can move along the longitudinal axis, the linkage assembly including a spring having a plurality of spring constants set to generate a force that acts in opposition to the weight of the display in order to maintain the display in a plurality of positions relative to a surface.

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

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

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

5. The support structure according to claim 4, wherein the spring is configured to apply force to the slider and react with the weight of the display, thereby automatically maintaining the display above the surface.

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

7. The support structure according to claim 1, wherein the head has a joint body movably connected to the arm, and the joint body is rotatably connected to the linkage assembly.

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

9. The support structure according to claim 7, wherein the head further comprises a ring that movably supports a pan head and the display, which are movably received within the joint body, on the arm.

10. The support structure according to claim 9, wherein the ring is slidable within the pan head to adjust the tilt of the display, and the pan head is rotatable relative to the joint body to adjust the pan angle of the display.

11. A support structure for supporting a display, wherein the support structure is Having a base element, The base element has an arm rotatably coupled to it, the arm extending along the longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end of the arm, The display has a head that movably supports the display on the arm, It has a linkage assembly, and the linkage assembly is A slider that can move along the aforementioned longitudinal axis, The base element and the first link rotatably connected to the slider, A second link rotatably connected to the slider and the head, A support structure including a spring housed within the slider.

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

13. The support structure according to claim 12, wherein the spring is configured to apply force to the slider and react with the weight of the display, thereby automatically maintaining the display above the surface.

14. The support structure according to claim 11, wherein the head has a joint body movably connected to the arm, and the joint body and the linkage assembly are configured to convert the linear motion of the linkage assembly into rotational motion of the joint body.

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

16. A support structure for supporting a display, wherein the support structure is It has an arm extending along the longitudinal axis between the first end and the second end, The first end of the arm has a tilting head that is rotatably coupled, and the tilting head is A joint body movably connected to the aforementioned support structure, A pan head that is receptacled within the joint body and can move relative to the joint body, The panhead has a ring that is received within it, the ring which can move with the panhead to adjust the display to a plurality of different tilt angles, and the ring which is rotatable relative to the panhead to adjust the display to a plurality of different rotation angles relative to the surface. A support structure having a linkage assembly housed within the arm and coupled to the inclined head, wherein the linkage assembly is configured to rotate the inclined head when the arm rotates in a manner that resists the rotation of the arm and maintains a consistent orientation of the inclined head throughout its life.

17. The support structure according to claim 16, wherein the linkage assembly includes a plurality of springs having a plurality of spring constants set to generate a force that acts in opposition to the weight of the display in order to maintain the display in a plurality of positions relative to the surface.

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

19. The support structure according to claim 18, further comprising a screw screwably coupled to the panhead, the screw configured to adjust the ring between a first and a second form.

20. The support structure according to claim 19, wherein the ring is able to move within the channel by receiving a first frictional force in the first embodiment, and the ring is able to move within the channel by receiving a second frictional force greater than the first frictional force.

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