Multi-purpose work surface workstation

Abstract

A workstation is provided that includes a base and a work surface pivotally mounted to the base and configured to pivot between a first position and a second position. The work surface is configured to cover a protected item when in the first position and expose the protected item when in the second position. The base is configured to support the work surface above a floor surface. The height of the work surface is adjustable to accommodate the ergonomic needs of various users.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 947,271, filed December 12, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 106,111, filed October 27, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] (Technical field) The present invention relates to a workstation, particularly to a storage and / or height reconfigurable workstation. [Background technology]

[0003] Many end markets and use cases are driving demands for functional workplace configurations. A typical workspace includes multiple monitor computer interfaces and space dedicated to referencing physical documents. Currently, there are a variety of products on the market that attempt to provide modern workspace solutions, but the prior art has failed to effectively increase a user's floor space while protecting and storing unused equipment. DISCLOSURE OF THEINVENTION

[0004] There are several aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein, each of which may be implemented individually or in combination in the devices and systems described and claimed below. These aspects may be implemented alone or in combination with other aspects of the subject matter described herein. The description of each aspect together does not preclude the use of each aspect separately or the claiming of each aspect separately or in other combinations as described in the appended claims.

[0005] In one aspect of the disclosure, a workstation includes a base and a work surface pivotally mounted to the base between a first position and a second position, the work surface configured to cover a protected member when in the first position and to expose the protected member when the work surface is moved to the second position, the base configured to support the work surface on a floor surface.

[0006] In another aspect of the disclosure, a workstation includes a base. The workstation also includes a work surface having a shielding member and at least one arm. The shielding member is pivotally coupled to the at least one arm, and the at least one arm is pivotally attached to the base at a first end of the at least one arm. The base is configured to support the work surface above a floor surface. The workstation also includes a bar attached to the base. The bar is configured to receive a protected member. The work surface is movable between a first position in which the shielding member covers the protected member and a second position in which the work surface extends parallel to the floor surface, exposing the protected member.

[0007] In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a workstation includes a base having a track configured to receive a slidable accessory. The slidable accessory is configured to move up and down along the track. The accessory is configured to releasably lock into at least one position along the track. The slidable accessory is configured to support a protected member. The workstation also includes a work surface pivotally attached to the base, configured to pivot between a first position and a second position. The work surface is configured to cover the protected member when in the first position and to expose the protected member when the work surface is moved to the second position. The base is configured to support the work surface on a floor surface. The work surface includes a table surface, the table surface being positioned to span the base and cover the protected member when the workstation is in the first position and to expose the protected member when the workstation is in the second position.

[0008] In another aspect of the disclosure, a workstation includes a fixed base and a movable top frame. The movable top frame can be raised and lowered by actuating a motor in the fixed base. A work surface coupled to the movable top frame is configured to pivot between a first position and a second position. The work surface and the frame are configured to cover a protected member in the frame when the work surface is in the first position. When the work surface is in the second position, the protected member is exposed and an upper surface of the work surface functions as a table surface. The fixed base is configured to be mounted to a wall and supports the movable top frame.

[0009] In another aspect of the disclosure, a workstation includes a fixed base and a movable top. The movable top can be raised and lowered by operating a motor in the fixed base. A work surface coupled to the movable top is configured to pivot between a first position and a second position. A pair of wings are pivotally coupled to opposite ends of the work surface and can extend to extend the length of the work surface when the work surface is in the second position. The wings are configured to fold toward a wall and to be disposed on an upper surface of the fixed base when the work surface is in the first position. When in an open position, the wings may not be deployed, and in such a case, the wings contact a front surface of a leg member for supporting the work surface. The fixed base is configured to be mounted to a wall and supports the movable top frame. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1A-1E are side views of one embodiment of a workstation according to the present invention, showing the workstation moving sequentially from a first position shown in FIG. 1A, through intermediate stages shown in FIGS. 1B, 1C and 1D, to a second position shown in FIG. 1E. [Diagram 2] Fig. 2A is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 1A. Fig. 2B is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 1B. Fig. 2C is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 1D. Fig. 2D is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 1E. Fig. 2E is a perspective view of the workstation shown in Figs. 1A to 1E. [Diagram 3] Figures 3A-3E are side views of one embodiment of a workstation according to the present invention, showing the workstation moving sequentially from a first position shown in Figure 3A, through intermediate stages shown in Figures 3B, 3C and 3D, to a second position shown in Figure 3E. [Figure 4]Fig. 4A is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 3A. Fig. 4B is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 3B. Fig. 4C is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 3D. Fig. 4D is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 3E. Fig. 4E is a perspective view of the workstation shown in Figs. 3A-3E. [Diagram 5] Figures 5A-5F are side views of one embodiment of a workstation according to the present invention, showing the workstation moving sequentially from a first position shown in Figure 5A, through intermediate stages shown in Figures 5B, 5C, 5D and 5E, to a second position shown in Figure 5F. [Figure 6] Fig. 6A is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 5A. Fig. 6B is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 5D. Fig. 6C is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 5E. Fig. 6D is a front view of the workstation shown in Fig. 5F. Fig. 6E is a perspective view of the workstation shown in Figs. 5A-5F. [Figure 7] 7A-7D show one embodiment of the workstation in a retracted and stowed position. [Figure 8] 8A-8D show the workstation shown in FIG. 7A in extended and retracted positions. [Figure 9] 9A-9E show the workstation shown in FIG. 7A in retracted and deployed positions. [Figure 10] 10A-10D show the workstation shown in FIG. 7A in an extended and deployed position. [Figure 11] 11A-11B show schematic diagrams of the actuation mechanism used to move the workstation between retracted and extended positions. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 illustrates one embodiment of the workstation in a stowed position. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows the workstation shown in FIG. 12 in a deployed position. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 shows a workstation with cantilever arms extending from leg members to support a work surface. [Figure 15] 15A-15B show a support mechanism extending from the frame to support the work surface. [Figure 16] 16A-16D show a soft-close hinge used to support a work surface. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows an alternative embodiment of the workstation shown in FIG. 7, which does not have wings. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 shows a stabilizing structure for the upper support member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] The embodiments disclosed herein are intended to provide an explanation of the subject matter, which may be variously embodied in other forms and combinations not specifically described, and therefore the specific embodiments and features disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting the subject matter defined in the appended claims.

[0012] In accordance with the present disclosure, the workstation is characterized by a surface that, when unfolded, serves as a work surface and, when folded, acts as a shield to protect a computer monitor in an enclosed space (pocket). As the population continues to grow and technology productivity increases, there is an increasing demand for ergonomic solutions in the workspace that allow users to effectively utilize technology while increasing available floor space when the workstation is not in use.

[0013] Although a workstation and its individual components according to the present disclosure may be configured in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, in one exemplary embodiment, a workstation 100 is configured as shown in Figures 1A-2E. The workstation 100 includes a base 107 and a work surface 102, where the work surface 102 is pivotally mounted to the base 107 for pivoting between a first position and a second position. The work surface 102 is configured to cover the protected member 114 when in the first position and to expose the protected member 114 when moved to the second position. The base 107 is configured to support the work surface 102 above a floor surface.

[0014] The base 107 further comprises at least one leg member 108 for supporting the work surface 102. The at least one leg member 108 has an upper end coupled to a first end of the work surface 102 and a lower end coupled to a foot member 110. The foot member 110 is movable from an inner position (FIG. 2A) in which the foot member 110 is positioned perpendicular to the lower end of the at least one leg member 108, to an outer position (FIGS. 1B-1E, and 2C-2E) in which the foot member 110 extends parallel to the lower end of the at least one leg member 108. The foot member 110 supports the leg member 108 on a floor surface.

[0015] As shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, the base 107 is configured to support a protected member 114 and may include a bar 112 configured to support the protected member 114. However, in another embodiment, the protected member may be mounted on a wall or may be detached from the base 107 and attached directly to a wall. In FIGS. 1A-1E, the protected member 114 includes at least one monitor. However, the protected member 114 may include or be composed of other suitable items. When the workstation 100 is in a first position (FIG. 1A), the work surface 102 extends perpendicular to the floor surface. When the workstation 100 is in a second position (FIG. 1E), the work surface 102 extends parallel to the floor surface.

[0016] The work surface 102 includes a shielding member 104 coupled to at least one arm 106. The at least one arm 106 is pivotally attached to a base 107. The shielding member 104 is configured to cooperate with the at least one arm 106. The shielding member 104 is also configured to be rotatable relative to the at least one arm 106. The shielding member 104 further includes at least one bumper 118. As shown in FIG. 1, the shielding member 104 includes two bumpers attached to each end of the shielding member 104. The bumpers 118 act as a buffer between the shielding member 104 and the wall 116 to protect the shielding member 104 when the shielding member 104 contacts the wall 116. As shown in FIG. 1A, when the workstation 100 is in the first position, the protected member 114 is located between the wall 116 and the shielding member 104. The work surface 102 and / or the at least one leg member 108 are removably connected to the wall 116 in the first position. The removably connected is via a hook or other suitable connector that is used to securely fasten the workstation 100. The at least one leg member 108 is connected to the wall 116 to increase the support strength of the workstation 100 in the first position (FIGS. 1A, 2A), during an intermediate stage (FIGS. 1B-1D, 2B-2C), or in the second position (FIGS. 1E, 2D). The at least one arm 106 is connected to the wall 116 when the workstation 100 is in the first position.

[0017] FIG. 2A is a front view of the workstation 100 shown in FIG. 1A. FIG. 2A shows the workstation 100 of the embodiment in a first position. In the first position, the at least one arm 106 and the shielding member 104 are parallel to the wall. In the illustrated embodiment, the workstation 100 includes two arms (a first arm and a second arm) 106. Alternatively, a different number of arms can be used. The first arm 106 contacts a first side of the shielding member 104, and the second arm 106 contacts a second side of the shielding member 104. The at least one arm 106 supports the shielding member 104 and helps to hold the shielding member 104 in the first position. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2A, the workstation 100 includes at least one foot member 110 and at least one leg member 108. To provide increased support and stability to the workstation 100, in the first position, the at least one foot member 110 is positioned perpendicular to the at least one leg member .

[0018] FIG 2B is a front view of the workstation 100 shown in FIG 1B. FIG 2B illustrates a first intermediate stage of moving the workstation 100 from a first position to a second position. In the first intermediate stage, the at least one foot member 110 is moved vertically relative to the at least one leg member 108, and the at least one arm 106 is moved to a horizontal (parallel to the floor) configuration. FIG 2B illustrates the at least one arm 106 fully protruding outward from the shielding member 104.

[0019] FIG. 2C is a front view of the workstation 100 shown in FIG. 1D. FIG. 2C shows a third intermediate stage of moving the workstation 100 from the first position to the second position. The second intermediate stage is shown in FIG. 1C, where the shielding member 104 is arranged vertically relative to the at least one arm 106. In the third intermediate stage, the at least one arm 106 is arranged to be in a horizontal (parallel to the floor) configuration. In the third intermediate stage, the shielding member 104 is rotated toward the plane (parallel to the floor) formed by the at least one arm 106, gradually exposing the protected member 114. As shown in FIG. 1D, the shielding member 104 is rotated counterclockwise. In another embodiment, the shielding member 104 can also be rotated clockwise.

[0020] FIG. 2D is a front view of the workstation shown in FIG. 1E. FIG. 2D shows the workstation 100 in a second position. In the second position, the shielding member 104 is arranged to be planar with respect to the at least one arm 106. The work surface 102 is arranged parallel to the floor surface and perpendicular to the base 107. When the workstation 100 is in the second position, the work surface 102 on which the user works is flat and stable. Furthermore, the protected member 114 is exposed and fully visible. In the illustrated embodiment, the protected member 114 comprises two monitors. Thus, the user can see the two monitors when working on the work surface 102.

[0021] 3A-4E show a workstation 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The workstation 200 comprises a base 207 and a work surface 202. The work surface 202 has a shielding member 204 and at least one arm 206 to which the shielding member 204 is pivotally coupled. The at least one arm 206 is pivotally attached to the base 207 at a first end of the at least one arm 206. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3A-4C, the shielding member 204 is coupled to the at least one arm 206, and the shielding member 204 and the at least one arm 206 move together. The base 207 is configured to support the work surface 202 on a floor surface and comprises at least one leg member 208 coupled to at least one foot member 210. A support member 212 is attached to the base 207. As shown in FIGS. 3A-4D, the support member 212 comprises a bar. The support member 212 is configured to receive the protected member 214. The work surface 202 can be moved between a first position, shown in Figures 3A and 4A, in which the shielding member 204 covers the protected member 214, and a second position in which the work surface 202 extends parallel to the floor surface, exposing the protected member 214.

[0022] Additionally, the work surface 202 and / or the at least one leg member 208 are configured to be removably connected to the wall 216. The removably connected is via a hook or other suitable connector. The at least one leg member 208 is connected to the wall 216 to increase the support strength of the workstation 200 in the first position (FIGS. 3A, 4A), during an intermediate stage (FIGS. 3B-3D, 4B-4C), or in the second position (FIGS. 3E, 4D). The at least one arm 206 is connected to the wall 216 when the workstation 200 is in the first position.

[0023] FIG. 4A is a front view of the workstation 200 shown in FIG. 3A. FIG. 4A shows the workstation 200 of the embodiment in a first position. In the first position, the at least one arm 206 and the shielding member 204 are parallel to the wall. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A, the workstation 200 includes two arms (a first arm and a second arm) 206. The first arm 206 contacts a first side of the shielding member 204, and the second arm 206 contacts a second side of the shielding member 204. The at least one arm 206 supports the shielding member 204 and helps to hold the shielding member 204 in the first position. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4A, the workstation 200 includes at least one foot member 210 and at least one leg member 208. To provide increased support and stability to the workstation 200, when in the first position, the at least one foot member 210 is positioned perpendicular to the at least one leg member 208.

[0024] 4B and 4C are front views of FIGS. 3B and 3D, respectively. FIGS. 4B and 4C show intermediate stages of moving the workstation 200 from a first position to a second position. In the first intermediate stage shown in FIG. 4B, the at least one foot member 210 is moved vertically relative to the at least one leg member 208. As shown in FIGS. 3B-3D and 4B-4C, in the intermediate stages, the at least one arm 206 and the shielding member 204 move together. FIG. 4B shows the work surface 202 fully protruding outward from the base 207. FIG. 4C shows the at least one arm 206 and the shielding member 204 fully extended. In FIG. 4C, the shielding member 204 is in a downward position relative to the at least one arm 206.

[0025] When moved to the second position, the shielding member 204 is arranged to be planar with respect to at least one arm 206, as shown in Figures 3E and 4D. In the second position, the work surface 202 is arranged parallel to the floor surface and perpendicular to the base 207. When the workstation 200 is in the second position, the work surface 202 on which the user works is flat and stable. In addition, the protected member 214 is exposed and fully visible. In the illustrated embodiment, the protected member comprises two monitors. Thus, the user can see the two monitors while working on the work surface 202.

[0026] 5A-6E illustrate a workstation 300 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The workstation 300 includes a base 307 having a leg member 308, the leg member 308 including a track 320 configured to receive a slidable accessory 312. The track 320 is visualized in each of FIGS. 5A-6E. As illustrated, the slidable accessory 312 is a bar. The slidable accessory 312 is configured to move along the track 320. The accessory 312 is configured to releasably lock into at least one position along the track 320. The slidable accessory 312 is configured to support a protected member 314. In the illustrated embodiment, the protected member 314 includes at least one monitor. In alternative embodiments, the protected member may be any other suitable item. A sliding mechanism allows the protected member 314 to be repositioned.

[0027] The workstation 300 also includes a work surface 302 pivotally mounted to a base 307 for pivotal movement between a first position and a second position. The work surface 302 is configured to cover the protected member 314 when in the first position, as shown in Figs. 5A and 6A, and to expose the protected member 314 when the work surface 302 is moved to the second position, as shown in Figs. 5F and 6D. The work surface 302 can extend to a floor surface. The base 307 is configured to support the work surface 302 on the floor surface. The work surface 302 includes a tabletop 304, where the tabletop 304 is suspended from the base 307 and covers the protected member 314 when the workstation 300 is in the first position, and the tabletop 304 is positioned to expose the protected member 314 when the workstation 300 is in the second position.

[0028] As shown in FIGS. 5A-6E, the base 307 includes at least one leg member 308 and at least one foot member 310. The at least one foot member 310 is attached to an end of the at least one leg member 308. The work surface 302 includes a slot 306 configured to receive the table top 304. When the work surface 302 is in the first position, the table top 304 is disposed outside the slot 306. When the work surface 302 is in the second position, the table top 304 is disposed within the slot 306. Furthermore, the slidable accessory 312 is configured such that the protected member 314 is disposed between the table top 304 and the wall 316 when the work surface 302 is in the first position, and the protected member 314 is disposed above the table top 304 when the work surface 302 is in the second position.

[0029] Further, the base 307 is configured to removably connect to the wall 316. The removably connection is made via a hook or other suitable connector. The connection can also be made by a mechanical bond, adhesive, or other suitable mechanism known to those skilled in the art. The base 307 can be connected to the wall 316 to increase the support strength of the workstation 300 in the first position (FIGS. 5A, 6A), during an intermediate stage (FIGS. 5B-5D, 6B-6C), or in the second position (FIGS. 5E, 6D).

[0030] Fig. 6A is a front view of the workstation 300 shown in Fig. 5A. As shown in Fig. 6A, when the workstation 300 is in the first position, the at least one foot member 310 is positioned perpendicular to the at least one leg member 308. This increases the stability and support strength of the workstation 300. Furthermore, as shown in Figs. 6A to 6D, the protected member 314 includes two monitors.

[0031] FIG. 6B is a front view of the workstation 300 shown in FIG. 5D. FIG. 6B shows the workstation 300 in a third intermediate stage. Note that FIG. 5B shows the workstation 300 in a first intermediate stage with the table top 304 tilted vertically for insertion into the slot 306, and FIG. 5C shows the workstation 300 in a second intermediate stage. In the second intermediate stage, the table top 304 is placed in the slot 306 and the work surface 302 is raised above the at least one foot member 310. In the third intermediate stage, the slidable accessory 312 is moved to expose the protected member 314. In the illustrated embodiment, the slidable accessory 312 is moved vertically to the top of the at least one leg member 308. Furthermore, the at least one foot member 310 is moved vertically relative to the at least one leg member 308 to increase stability and support strength.

[0032] Figure 6C is a front view of the workstation shown in Figure 5E, showing the workstation 300 in a fourth intermediate stage, in which the work surface 302 rotates from a first position, a vertical configuration, to a second position, a horizontal configuration.

[0033] Figure 6D is a front view of the workstation shown in Figure 5F. Figure 6D shows the workstation 300 in a second position. In the second position, the work surface 302 is disposed parallel to the floor surface and perpendicular to the base 307. When the workstation 300 is in the second position, the work surface 302 on which the user works is flat and stable. In addition, the protected member 314 is exposed and fully visible. In the illustrated embodiment, the protected member comprises two monitors. Thus, the user can see the two monitors while working on the work surface 302.

[0034] 7A-7D show a workstation 700. The workstation 700 includes a pair of parallel leg members 108 connected by one or more cross beams 702. A movable top frame 704 includes a pair of supports 706 received within the leg members 108. As described below, an actuation mechanism within the leg members 108 can move the movable top frame 704 between a stored position, shown in FIGS. 7A-7D, and an extended position, shown in FIGS. 8A-8D. An upper rail 708 extends across the top of the movable top frame 704 and connects the supports 706. The pair of arms 106 and the work surface 102 are pivotally connected to the supports 706 such that the work surface 102 can move between a stored position, shown in FIGS. 7A-7D, and an extended position, shown in FIGS. 9A-9D.

[0035] The combination of the arm 106 and work surface 102 preferably has a width and length that allows it to be fully stored within the movable top frame 704, as shown in Figures 7A-7D. This maintains the work surface 102 in a stored position, particularly when the movable top frame 704 is raised or lowered. One or more securing members, such as a latch or lock, may also be coupled to the movable top frame 704 to prevent the work surface 102 from being unintentionally deployed.

[0036] In some embodiments, the work surface 102 can be configured to be wider, in which case the work surface 102 does not retract into the movable top frame 704, but instead covers the movable top frame 704, such that when the work surface 102 is elevated, only the underside of the work surface 102 is visible from the front of the workstation 700. Hooks, latches, or other mechanisms can be utilized to couple the work surface 102 to the top frame 704 when the work surface 102 is in the retracted position.

[0037] In this embodiment, the workstation 700 foot parts Preferably, the cross beam 702 does not include a wall 116. Instead, hardware is used to attach the cross beam 702 to the wall 116. For example, a number of hanger brackets can be placed on the wall and the cross beam 702 can be hung from the hanger brackets. In other embodiments, hardware can be placed directly through the cross beam 702 to secure the cross beam 702 directly to the wall (e.g., to a wall stud, etc.). Multiple methods of securing the cross beam 702 to the wall 116 will be known to those of skill in the art.

[0038] In some embodiments, the leg members 108 can be suspended off the ground by attaching the cross beams 702 at a higher position, which allows the workstation 700 to be suspended and makes it easier to clean under the desk as the leg members 108 do not come into contact with the ground.

[0039] 7C and 7D are illustrative diagrams showing the dimensions of the workstation 700 in the stowed position. For example, the workstation 700 has an overall height of 55 to 56 inches when in the stowed position. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7D, the width of the leg members 108 is preferably 1 to 1.5 inches greater than the width of the support 706, thereby providing a gap between the wall 116 and the support 706. This gap allows the cords for electronic equipment secured within the movable upper frame 704 to be routed in a position that is typically close to the ground (e.g., Leg members 108)。 Additionally, the gap allows the movable upper frame 704 to move freely relative to the wall 116. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the dimensions described herein may be modified depending on the application or needs of the workstation 700.

[0040] Figures 8A-8D show the workstation 700 in an extended, but stowed, position. An actuation mechanism in each leg member 708 allows the movable upper frame 704 to move upwardly a user-determined amount. In particular, Figures 8A-8D show the workstation 700 in a fully extended position. However, the workstation 700 can be extended to any height between the heights shown in Figures 7A-7D and 8A-8D.

[0041] In these figures, it is more apparent that the height of the supports 706 is greater than the height of the leg members 108. Otherwise, the movable upper frame 704 would not be able to extend between the stowed and extended positions. In FIG. 8C, the height of the workstation 700 in the extended state is 75 inches to 76 inches. However, the height of the extended workstation 700 can be easily changed by changing the relative heights of the supports 706 and / or the leg members 108.

[0042] 9A-9E show the workstation 700 in a stowed but deployed position. The work surface 102 is pivoted downwardly about a hinge 714 that connects the arm 106 to the support 706. When the work surface 102 is pivoted, the protected member 114 is exposed so that a user can use the work surface 102 as a table surface or desk. In this embodiment, the protected member 114 comprises one or more monitors coupled to a bar 112 by a dual monitor stand.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 9C, the work surface 102 is preferably 30 inches high when unfolded so that the work surface 102 can be used with a standard office chair. The bar 112 is preferably 2-2.5 inches above the work surface when the work surface 102 is unfolded. In addition to containing the protected member 114, the bar 112 can be used to store other items that a user may need while working, such as stationery, an upright laptop, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The bar 112 has a width that is slightly narrower than the width of the support 706, so that the work surface 102 can close flush with the front side of the movable upper frame 704 when the work surface 102 is in the closed position.

[0044] Figure 9E is a rear view of the workstation 700 showing how the arm 106 is coupled to the inner surface of the support 706. Figure 9E also shows a bumper 710 attached to the underside of the bar 112. The width of the bumper 710 is preferably slightly less than the width of the work surface 102, and the front of the bumper 710 engages the rear surface of the work surface 102 to prevent further rotation. The front of the bumper 710 is preferably hard rubber or foam to protect the work surface 102 from impacts as it pivots to the deployed position.

[0045] The rear surface of the bar 112 further includes a notch 712 as additional clearance for movement of thick plugs and cords of the protected member 114 or items housed within the bar 112 .

[0046] 10A-10D show the workstation 700 in an extended and unfolded position so that the workstation 700 can be used as a standing desk. When the movable upper frame 704 is fully extended, as shown in FIG. 10C, the work surface 102 is preferably 50 inches (about 127 cm) high. The work surface 102 is 60 inches to 60.5 inches (about 152.4 cm to 153.6 cm) wide and 30 inches (about 76.2 cm) deep.

[0047] 11A-11B are side views of the workstation 700 illustrating an actuation mechanism 716 used to move the movable upper frame 704 between the retracted position of FIG. 11A and the extended position of FIG. 11B. Each leg member 108 / support 706 has an actuation member 716 mounted therein. A first portion of the actuation member 716 is fixed to the leg member 108 and a second portion is fixed to the support 706. By extending and retracting the actuation mechanism 706, the workstation 700 can be lowered and raised. Each leg member 108 / support 706 preferably includes an actuation mechanism 716.

[0048] An actuation motor 718 is mounted near the bottom of the leg member 108. An actuation arm 720 extends from the interior of the leg member 108 into the interior of the support 706 and is secured to the support 706 by a block. One or more bushings 722 couple the bottom of the support 706 to the actuation arm 720. Rotation of the actuation arm 720 by the actuation motor 718 can raise or lower the support 706 as is known in the art of linear actuators. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that other types of raising or lowering mechanisms, such as hydraulic or ratcheting systems, can also be used as the actuation mechanism 716.

[0049] The interior of the leg member 108 and support 706 may include a track system that allows the two members to smoothly extend and retract relative to one another. Any type of track system may be used, including a linear sliding track, or a combination of tracks and wheels.

[0050] 12 and 13 show another embodiment of the workstation 1200 similar to that shown in FIGS. 7A-11. In this embodiment, the upper portion of the support 706 is shortened and the upper rail 708 is removed. In addition, a pair of hinged wings 1202 are coupled to opposite ends of the work surface 102 by hinges 1204. When the workstation 1200 is in the storage position and the work surface 102 is raised, the wings 1202 can be folded toward the wall so that the bottom surface of each wing 1202 is disposed on the upper surface of the support 706 as shown in FIG. 12. With this configuration, the wings 1202 can protect the protected member 114 while helping to support the work surface 102 to maintain the storage position.

[0051] As shown in Figure 13, the work surface 102 is coupled to the top rail 1302 by one or more hinges 1304, preferably by coupling the underside of the work surface 102 to the underside of the top rail 1302. The protected member 114 is coupled to the top side of the top rail 1302. The hinges 1304 allow the work surface to rotate between an open position (Figure 13) and a closed position (Figure 12).

[0052] In order for the wings 1202 to be positioned on the supports 706, the width of the work surface 102 is greater than the width of the top rail 1302. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the length of the work surface 102 extends to be flush with the outer edge of the supports 706. Figure 13 shows the workstation 1200 in an unfolded and lowered position. As the work surface 102 pivots downward on the hinges 1304, the rear of the work surface 102 contacts the bumper 710, which also prevents further rotation (see Figure 9E). The wings 1202 remain folded downward to contact the front of the supports 706 and help support the work surface 102. Alternatively, the wings 1202 can be locked in an extended position parallel to the top surface of the work surface 102 to extend the desk top surface available to the user. Any device can be used to lock the wings 1202 in a parallel configuration, including pins, locking hinges, and the like.

[0053] The workstation 1200 includes two cross beams 702 instead of the single cross beam shown in the workstation 700. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that any of the embodiments described herein may include any number of cross beams 702.

[0054] The workstations depicted in Figures 1A-17 are suitable for all types of applications, including typing while viewing a monitor or other form of virtual display, or writing while viewing a monitor. When stowed in a first position, the shielding members described above protect the protected members from damage including, but not limited to, projectiles, sharp objects, furniture, human limbs, and liquids. Additionally, all connections between the base and the work surface, the shielding members and at least one arm, the at least one leg member and at least one foot member, the support members and the base, and all other connections and connections of the workstation may be achieved by mechanical devices including screws and / or nuts and bolts, mechanical joints, adhesives, interference fits, or other suitable known connection mechanisms.

[0055] Figures 14, 15A, and 15B show a cantilever support 1402 and a frame support 1502 that are used to help support the work surface 102. As shown in Figure 14, the cantilever support 1402 is pivotally connected to the workstation 700 and preferably contacts the side or underside of the work surface 102 to help support the work surface 102.

[0056] 15A and 15B show a chain 1502 used to help support the work surface 102. In this embodiment, a first end of the chain 1502 is coupled to the inside or outside of a respective support 706 and a second end of the chain 1502 is coupled to the side or top of the work surface 102. The length of the chain 1502 limits the distance the work surface 102 can travel. The chain 1502 can be any flexible rope-like structure, such as a chain, rope, metal braid, string, metal wire, etc.

[0057] 16A-16D show an embodiment of a soft-close hinge 1602 used to couple the support 706 to the work surface 102. As best shown in FIG. 16D, a first end of the soft-close hinge 1602 is rotationally coupled to the inside of the support 706 and a second end of the soft-close hinge 1602 is coupled to the top surface of the work surface 102. The soft-close hinge 1602 uses a pneumatic plunger to limit the rate at which the work surface 102 can be lowered without limiting the rate at which the work surface 102 can be raised.

[0058] FIG. 17 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the workstation 700 shown in FIG. 7. The wings 1202 are not present in the illustrated embodiment. Two rectangular stops 1702 are coupled to the edges of the work surface 102 at the periphery of the supports 706. The stops 1702 reinforce the hinges 704 by contacting the underside of the top rail 1302 when the work surface 102 is lowered for use. A pivot lock 1704 located on one or more of the supports 706 can be rotated upward to help maintain the work surface 102 in the elevated position.

[0059] FIG. 18 shows a stabilizing block 1802 coupled to a support 706. In a first embodiment, the stabilizing block has an L-shape with a first portion of the support 706 coupled to the wall. The stabilizing block 1802 extends outward and partially toward and over the lip on the support 706 without contacting the support 706, so that it does not impede the up / down movement of the support 706. One or more stabilizing blocks 1802 are used with each support 706. This embodiment of the stabilizing block prevents the workstation 700 from accidentally tipping over when a pulling force is applied. The L-shape of the stabilizing block 1802 prevents the support 706 from moving beyond a predetermined distance from the wall 116.

[0060] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 18, each stabilizing block 1802 has a C-shape and each support 706 has a ridge 1804. A portion of the C is used to couple the stabilizing block 1802 to the wall and another portion of the C extends beyond the ridge 1804. The ridge 1804 contacts one or more rollers that reside in a groove formed by the C-shape of the stabilizing block 1802. The stabilizing block 1802 helps stabilize the support 706 as it moves up and down by ensuring that the support 706 moves up and down in a linear manner. In some embodiments, the stabilizing block 1802 has a T-shape. A central longitudinal portion of the stabilizing block 1802 is attached to the wall behind each support 706. A cross portion of the T-shaped stabilizing block 1802 resides in the groove of each support 706 and the central longitudinal portion is fixed to the wall. The groove has a width that is less than the width of the cross portion of the stabilizing block 1802. Thus, the stabilizing block 1802 is coupled to the inside of the support 706 while still allowing the support 706 to be displaced vertically.

[0061] Other mechanisms can be used to help support the work surface 102 in the deployed position. For example, two rotatable wooden beams can be coupled to the leg members 108 and engage the underside of the work surface 106 to support the work surface. A triangular member can be coupled on a first side to the leg members 108 via a hinge such that the top flat surface of the triangular member can support the bottom of the work surface 102 when rotated outward and can accommodate the work surface 102 when rotated inward.

[0062] Alternatively, the support may be fixed to the bottom of the work surface 102. The support may have hinge members that rotate and seat in grooves in the leg members 108 to support the work surface 102 when it is in use. The hinge members may be rotated to lower the work surface 102 so that it is flush with the desk.

[0063] The above-described embodiments are illustrative of some applications of the principles of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims, including combinations of features individually disclosed or recited herein. For these reasons, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above description, but is as set forth in the appended claims, which are directed to features of the present disclosure, including combinations of features individually disclosed or recited herein.

Claims

1. A first leg member; A second leg member; a movable upper frame including a first support coupled to the first leg member, a second support coupled to the second leg member, and an upper rail connecting a top surface of the first support to a top surface of the second support, thereby coupling the first support to the second support, the movable upper frame being height adjustable relative to the first leg member and the second leg member; a work surface pivotally connected to the movable upper frame, the work surface movable between a first position in which the work surface is vertical and a second position in which the work surface is pivoted downwardly and horizontal; and an actuation mechanism for adjusting the height of the movable upper frame relative to the first and second leg members; Equipped with When the work surface is in the first position, the movable upper frame and the work surface define a protected space configured to be able to protect a protected member located within the movable upper frame. Workstation.

2. The workstation of claim 1 , further comprising a crossbar connecting said first leg member and said second leg member, said crossbar configured to secure said workstation to a wall.

3. 2. The workstation of claim 1, further comprising a bar that is positioned at or above the same height as the work surface when the work surface is in the second position.

4. A workstation as described in claim 3, wherein the protected member is a monitor and the bar is configured to support the monitor.

5. The workstation of claim 3 , wherein the rear surface of the bar has a recess.

6. The workstation of claim 1 , wherein the work surface is configured to be stored within the movable top frame and the top rails when in the first position.

7. The workstation of claim 1 , wherein the first and second leg members are configured not to contact a floor surface.

8. 2. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises a pair of linear actuators.

9. 2. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the top of the movable upper frame is located above the tops of the first and second leg members within the height adjustment range.

10. 2. The workstation of claim 1, further comprising a first foot member connected to the first leg member and a second foot member connected to the second leg member, the first foot member and the second foot member providing stability to the workstation.

11. 11. The workstation of claim 10, wherein the first and second foot members are configured to pivot to reduce the overall profile of the workstation.

12. A first leg member; A second leg member; a movable upper frame including a first support coupled to the first leg member, a second support coupled to the second leg member, and a cross member coupling the first support to the second support, the movable upper frame being height adjustable relative to the first leg member and the second leg member; a work surface pivotally connected to the movable upper frame, the work surface being movable between a first position in which the work surface is vertical and a second position in which the work surface is pivoted downward; a first wing pivotally coupled to a first end of the work surface; and a second wing pivotally coupled to a second end of the work surface; Equipped with When the work surface is in the first position, the first wing and the second wing are pivoted toward an upper side of the work surface, whereby the first wing, the second wing, and the work surface form a protective space configured to be able to protect a protected member. Workstation.

13. 13. A workstation according to claim 12, wherein the cross-member is flush with or above the work surface when the work surface is in the second position.

14. 13. The workstation of claim 12, further comprising a first foot member connected to the first leg member and a second foot member connected to the second leg member, the first foot member and the second foot member providing stability to the workstation.

15. 15. The workstation of claim 14, wherein the first and second foot members are configured to pivot to reduce the overall profile of the workstation.

16. A first leg member; A second leg member; a first support coupled to the first leg member so as to be adjustable in height relative to the first leg member; a second support coupled to the second leg member such that its height can be adjusted relative to the second leg member; a work surface movable between a first position which is vertical and a second position which is pivoted downwardly and is horizontal; an actuation mechanism for adjusting the height of the first support relative to the first leg member and the height of the second support relative to the second leg member; an upper rail that is level with or above the work surface when the work surface is in the second position; Equipped with When the work surface is in a first position, the first support, the second support, and the work surface form a protective space configured to be able to protect a protected member; The work surface is pivotally coupled to the first support and the second support. Workstation.

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