Cantilevered desk and components and method for the use thereof
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cantilevered desks often obstruct mobility and aesthetics due to floor-engaging members, lack height adjustability, and have inadequate power grommet designs that fail to secure monitors and route cables effectively.
Innovation Solution
A desk design featuring a height-adjustable support column assembly with telescoping tubes and a linear actuator, a power grommet with pivotally connected lid and through-openings for cable routing, and a monitor support system that secures the monitor inwardly from the edge, allowing for adjustable desk height and cable management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If floor engaging members are used to counterbalance the worksurface, then the desk can be supported, but mobility is obstructed and aesthetics are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the floor-engaging member from the support structure, extracting the obstructive element while maintaining support functionality through an alternative counterbalancing mechanism that does not require floor penetration, thereby preserving mobility and aesthetics
2Strength
If the desk is integrated into the support structure, then the support structure gains structural function, but the support structure loses independent function and use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the desk system into separable components - the support structure and the worksurface - allowing the support structure to function independently when detached, while still providing structural support when connected, thus maintaining both structural integration and independent versatility
3Stability of the object's composition
If the desk is secured to fixed anchor points, then the desk is stable, but the user's ability to customize the workspace is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fixed anchor points with adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the worksurface to be repositioned to different heights and locations while maintaining stability at each position, enabling both stability and workspace customization
4Device complexity
If the actuator is disposed interiorly of the column, then the design is compact, but the entire support column or worksurface must be removed for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the actuator within the column structure but provides access through openings or removable panels in the column, allowing the actuator to be nested compactly within the overall design while remaining accessible for maintenance without removing the entire worksurface
5Ease of operation
If power grommets are uncovered, then accessibility is improved, but dust, fluids and other debris can intrude
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protective cover or shield as an intermediary element that can be opened to provide access to power outlets while closed to prevent dust, fluids and debris from entering, thus mediating between accessibility and protection
6Strength
If the monitor arm is clamped to the edge of the worksurface, then the monitor can be secured, but the monitor arm and hardware are exposed to interactions and require wires to overrun the edge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides monitor mounting options that extend into the interior space of the worksurface or utilize the lateral dimension along the underside, allowing monitors to be secured without exposing hardware at the edge and enabling cable routing through the worksurface thickness rather than over the edge
Data Source
AI summary
A desk including a support column having a top and a worksurface having a bottom. An attachment plate is disposed between and coupled to the top of the support column and to the bottom of the worksurface. A leveling component is disposed between the support column and the attachment plate. The leveling component is adjustable between a plurality of positions such that the attachment plate is moveable to a corresponding plurality of angular orientations relative to the top.