Display positioning apparatus and method

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing workstations are often limited to a single fixed height, failing to accommodate users of different sizes and preferences, and do not allow for easy adjustment between sitting and standing positions, limiting ergonomic flexibility and comfort.

Innovation Solution

A positioning apparatus with a base that attaches to a work surface, a support column, and a mounting portion that moves vertically to adjust the position of both an electronic display and a keyboard, allowing for a range of travel between sitting and standing heights, including a keyboard tray that can be positioned below or above the work surface and equipped with a tilt mechanism for ergonomic adjustment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed height workstation is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but it cannot accommodate users of different sizes or sitting/standing positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of different user sizes and positionsVSAvoidworkstation structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the workstation height adjustable through a lift mechanism that allows the mounting portion to move vertically along the support column. This enables the same workstation to adapt to different user heights and positions (sitting or standing) while maintaining structural integrity through controlled mechanical movement rather than fixed rigid structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a single workstation that can serve multiple functions: accommodating users of different heights, supporting both sitting and standing positions, and providing adjustable keyboard and monitor positions. The mounting portion can hold multiple devices (monitor, keyboard, mouse) that can be independently positioned, making one workstation replace multiple fixed-height workstations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If multiple workstations are provided for different positions, then user comfort is improved, but the space occupied increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveergonomic comfortVSAvoidworkstation footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple workstation functions into a single integrated unit. The mounting portion combines monitor support, keyboard tray, and mouse positioning capabilities in one vertically adjustable assembly. This consolidation allows users to switch between sitting and standing positions using one compact workstation instead of requiring separate workstations for each position, significantly reducing the total space occupied.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the keyboard tray is positioned below the work surface, then ergonomic adjustment is improved, but the range of motion is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveergonomic adjustment rangeVSAvoidkeyboard tray travel distance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics to the keyboard tray by enabling it to move vertically along the support column in addition to its traditional horizontal movement. The keyboard tray can be positioned at multiple heights (below, at, or above the work surface level) while maintaining its ability to slide horizontally. This dynamic positioning allows the keyboard to be optimally positioned for different user heights and postures, greatly expanding ergonomic adjustment range without compromising travel distance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9717329B2Display positioning apparatus and method
Publication Date: 2017.08.01 ERGOTRON INC
  • US9717329B2 patent drawing
  • US9717329B2 patent drawing
  • US9717329B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the invention include an apparatus for positioning an electronic display. The apparatus can be combined with an existing work surface to provide a multi-position workstation. In some cases the apparatus includes amounting portion configured to support an electronic display and a keyboard. The mounting portion may be movable with respect to the work surface between multiple positions, including for example, a sitting position and a standing position. Methods for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard are also included.