Adjustable Stand with Toggle Mechanism for One-Handed Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stands are inadequate for use on unstable surfaces, require two hands to operate, and lack versatility in securing objects, necessitating multiple stands for different functions.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable stand with a bottom plate, middle plate, and top plate, pivotably coupled using coupling mechanisms, featuring a toggle mechanism that can be transitioned between locked and unlocked states with a single actuating input, allowing for one-handed operation and adjustable height and orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing stands are designed to be specifically placed on stable surfaces, then the stand structure can be simple, but it cannot be used on unstable surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The stand is designed with a universal base plate that can function both on stable surfaces (tabletops) and unstable surfaces (laps, knees). The base plate includes adjustable feet that can be positioned to provide stability on various surface types, making a single stand design suitable for multiple usage scenarios without requiring separate specialized stands.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand incorporates adjustable and movable components including height-adjustable legs with locking mechanisms and rotatable joints that allow the top surface to be positioned at various angles. This dynamic adjustability enables the stand to adapt to different surface conditions and user preferences, transforming a static structure into a versatile, adaptable support system.
2Ease of operation
If existing stands require two hands to operate for changing height, then the structure can be simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustment mechanism is designed to be self-operating through a lever system that uses simple hand motion to raise or lower the stand. The user can adjust the height with one hand by manipulating the lever, which automatically locks into position without requiring the other hand for stabilization, making the adjustment process self-service and easily performable during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment lever incorporates ergonomic curved handles that are easy to grip and manipulate with one hand. The curved design allows for natural hand motion and provides mechanical advantage, enabling smooth height adjustment without requiring complex mechanisms or two-handed operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing stands are specifically designed to allow placing objects on them, then the structure can be simple, but the ability to secure objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The top surface is designed with multiple functions: it can simply support objects through its basic structural capacity, and it can also actively secure objects using integrated attachment mechanisms. The top surface includes slots or openings that accommodate various attachment devices, allowing the same surface to serve both as a passive support and an active securing platform depending on the user's needs.
4Quantity of substance
If a single stand design is used for multiple functions, then the quantity of stands needed is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stand integrates multiple functions into a single design: it can be adjusted for different heights, positioned at various angles, used on different surface types, and equipped with optional attachment mechanisms. This multi-functional integration eliminates the need for multiple specialized stands (lap stand, table stand, secure stand) while providing all necessary capabilities through one versatile device.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand is divided into modular components including an adjustable base, height-adjustable legs, a rotatable top surface, and optional attachment devices. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted or configured for different functions, enabling a single stand to perform multiple roles without requiring a completely different design for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an adjustable stand for supporting objects on the adjustable stand, in accordance with some embodiments. Accordingly, the adjustable stand comprises a bottom plate, a middle plate, a top plate, a toggle mechanism, and an actuating device. The toggle mechanism allows pivoting of the top plate in an unlocked state and restricts the pivoting in the locked state. The actuating device transitions the toggle mechanism to the unlocked state by receiving a first actuating input and transitions the toggle mechanism to the locked state by receiving a second actuating input. The toggle mechanism transitions to the unlocked state from the locked state based on applying a pivoting force on the top plate above a threshold pivoting force without receiving the first actuating input. The toggle mechanism transitions to the locked state from the unlocked state based on releasing the pivoting force applied to the top plate.