Actuated height adjustable optical table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical tables and workstations are of fixed heights, failing to accommodate varying user requirements and load capacities, particularly in research and industrial applications, where vibration isolation and rigidity are critical.
Innovation Solution
An actuated, height-adjustable optical table with modular leg subassemblies and integrated or external control systems, allowing for synchronized height adjustment with optional vibration isolation, ensuring stability and load handling capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed height optical tables are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different user needs and applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The optical table transitions from a static fixed-height structure to a dynamic height-adjustable system. Multiple actuators are integrated into the leg subassemblies, enabling the table top to be raised or lowered to different positions. This dynamic capability allows the same table to adapt to various user needs (sitting vs. standing positions) and application requirements (different beam heights) while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If height adjustment mechanism is added, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustment system is divided into multiple independent leg subassemblies, each containing its own actuator. This segmentation allows each leg to be controlled independently or in coordination with others, providing height adjustment capability while distributing the complexity across modular units rather than requiring a single complex mechanism. The modular leg subassembly design makes the system more manageable and easier to control.
3Stability of the object's composition
If vibration isolation is implemented, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Vibration isolation mounts are introduced as intermediary elements between the table top and the supporting structure. These mounts act as mediators that decouple vibrations from the table top while still providing structural support. This allows the table to maintain stability and reduce vibrations without requiring a completely complex isolation system, as the mounts are integrated into the existing leg subassembly structure.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple actuators are used for height adjustment, then precision and control are improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple actuators are merged into a coordinated system controlled by a single controller. The controller synchronizes the operation of all actuators, allowing the user to adjust the table height through a single interface or command. This merging of control functions maintains precision positioning capability while simplifying operation, as the user does not need to manually control each actuator independently.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuated, height adjustable optical table or workstation for use in microscopy, optical research laboratories and similar environments includes fixed and moving parts which combine to create a rigid, height adjustable table structure on which to mount an optical breadboard or similar platforms via optional passive or active vibration isolation mounts. The height adjustment is performed by multiple compact actuators with associated control hardware and software, and allows the user or an application system to perform activities with the table at any heights.