Operating device for a table, and table comprising same
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current configuration of tables with adjustable height and/or inclination requires significant time and delays production, as parameters such as displacement speed and collision detection sensitivity must be set by a table installer using complex external software and connections.
Innovation Solution
An operating device with a control unit and manual switch featuring a display element and command buttons for menu navigation, allowing users to adjust table parameters, including collision detection sensitivity, without the need for an external computer, and optionally including an internal collision detection device and inclination sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If parameters are configured using external computer with complex configuration software, then parameter setting capability is achieved, but configuration time and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the configuration capability from the external computer and relocates it directly into the control unit. The control unit now contains an integrated user interface and menu system that allows parameter configuration without requiring external computing devices, thereby eliminating the time loss associated with external computer connections while maintaining full parameter setting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls the height and inclination adjustment motors, detects collisions through integrated sensors, and provides a complete parameter configuration interface. This multi-functionality consolidates what previously required separate external devices into a single integrated unit, simplifying the overall system and reducing configuration time
2Reliability
If parameters are configured by table installer during manufacturing, then initial setup is completed, but production process is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service configuration capability where the end-user can independently adjust all table parameters including height ranges, inclination angles, and collision detection sensitivity through the integrated menu system. This eliminates the need for installer intervention during production, allowing tables to be configured immediately upon delivery without delaying the manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit comes pre-programmed with default parameter values and a complete configuration menu structure. All necessary configuration tools and interfaces are built-in from the factory, so no additional setup equipment or installer time is needed during production. The table is ready for immediate use with optional user customization
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual switch has multiple command buttons with multiple assignment, then parameter adjustability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic menu navigation system where the function of command buttons changes based on the current menu context. The same physical buttons serve different purposes at different levels of the menu hierarchy, allowing full parameter adjustability without requiring additional buttons. The interface adapts its functionality dynamically rather than requiring static multiple assignments
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an operating device for a table, having a table panel with an adjustable height and/or inclination and having an internal collision detection device for detecting a collision between the table panel and an object or a person, comprising: a control unit and a hand-held switch that is connected to the control unit and has a display element, on which an element can be displayed for menu navigation, and one or more command buttons, by means of which the height and/or inclination of the table can be adjusted using the menu navigation, wherein at least one of the command buttons is assigned multiple times, and parameters of the table can be adjusted using the command buttons with multiple assignments, said parameters comprising a sensitivity level of the collision detection device.