Display positioning apparatus and method

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing workstations with fixed height limitations restrict users from easily adjusting the position of electronic displays and keyboards to accommodate different operating positions, such as sitting and standing, which can lead to discomfort and reduced productivity.

Innovation Solution

A positioning apparatus with a base that attaches to a work surface, a support column, and a mounting portion that allows for vertical movement, enabling simultaneous adjustment of electronic displays and keyboards within a range of travel to accommodate various user positions and preferences.

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 the user cannot adjust the position to accommodate different operating positions (sitting and standing)

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability to different operating positionsVSAvoidworkstation structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed workstation into a movable one. The mounting portion is coupled to the support column through a lift mechanism that enables vertical movement between sitting and standing positions. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the workstation to adapt to different operating positions while maintaining structural integrity through controlled motion mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the display and keyboard are adjusted for one user's height, then that user's comfort is improved, but other users with different heights or preferences cannot use it comfortably

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of different user heightsVSAvoidfrequency of adjustment required
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the universality principle by designing a workstation that serves multiple users with different height requirements. The lift mechanism enables the mounting portion to be adjusted to various heights, allowing the same workstation to accommodate both sitting and standing users. This multi-functional capability ensures that different users can find their optimal viewing and typing positions without requiring separate workstations.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If the vertical range of travel is increased to accommodate more positions, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevertical range of travelVSAvoidsupport column height
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the nesting principle by integrating the lift mechanism within the support column structure. The mounting portion moves vertically along the support column, with the movement mechanism nested within or alongside the column itself. This nesting approach allows for a substantial vertical range of travel (14 to 24 inches) without requiring a proportionally larger footprint or excessive column height, as the mechanism efficiently utilizes the available vertical space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS10939753B2Display positioning apparatus and method
Publication Date: 2021.03.09 ERGOTRON INC
  • US10939753B2 patent drawing
  • US10939753B2 patent drawing
  • US10939753B2 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 a mounting 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.