Desktop workspace that adjusts vertically

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing desktop workspaces lack adjustable height mechanisms that provide straight vertical motion without protruding, limited maximum height, inadequate load distribution, and compact design, failing to accommodate taller users and improve health through varied working positions.

Innovation Solution

A desktop workspace with a scissor-motion height adjustment mechanism using arms connected at a pivot point, assisted by springs or motors, allowing vertical movement without lateral displacement, and a locking mechanism for customizable height settings, integrated with a compact design for minimal space usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If a scissor-motion mechanism is used for height adjustment, then the work surface can be adjusted vertically, but the mechanism may protrude outward toward the operator when elevated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustable height rangeVSAvoidvertical alignment

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent guides the scissor arms to move along a curved trajectory rather than simple linear expansion, allowing the mechanism to expand in one dimension (height) while maintaining constraints in another dimension (lateral position). The guide rails or slots constrain the arms to follow a path that prevents outward protrusion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces guide rails, slots, or constraint mechanisms as intermediaries between the scissor arms and the work surface platform. These intermediaries mediate the motion of the scissor mechanism, ensuring that the expansion force is directed vertically while preventing lateral displacement or protrusion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If preset height settings are used, then the locking mechanism is simpler, but the work surface is limited to only specific heights

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveheight adjustment simplicityVSAvoidcustomizable height

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic locking mechanism that can engage at any position along the adjustment range rather than fixed preset positions. The locking system transitions from static (preset positions) to dynamic (continuous positioning capability), allowing the work surface to be locked at any desired height while maintaining ease of operation through simple engagement and disengagement actions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Length of moving object

If the maximum adjustable height is increased for taller users, then more users can be accommodated, but the mechanism becomes more complex and larger

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemaximum heightVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the height adjustment mechanism into modular segments or telescopic sections that can be extended incrementally. This segmentation allows the mechanism to achieve greater maximum height through staged extension rather than a single large-scale mechanism, reducing overall complexity while accommodating taller users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Ease of operation

If the work surface platform is elevated, then standing work position is achieved, but the platform may become unstable or wobble

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestanding work capabilityVSAvoidplatform stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates preliminary stabilization features such as pre-positioned support legs, adjustable stabilizing feet, or automatic leveling mechanisms that are deployed or activated as the platform is elevated. These preliminary actions ensure stability is established before the platform reaches its final elevated position, preventing wobble or instability during use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables users to adjust the workspace height freely, promoting healthier working by alternating between sitting and standing, improving alertness and productivity while accommodating various user heights and loads, and maintaining a compact form factor.

Implementation Method 1

A desktop workspace includes at least one set of arms as part of the height adjustment mechanism that utilizes a scissor motion to move the work surface platform up and down

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectScissor motion: Mechanical Advantage

Implementation Method 2

A desktop workspace with a scissor-motion height adjustment mechanism using arms connected at a pivot point, assisted by springs or motors

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring assistance: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS11470959B1Desktop workspace that adjusts vertically

Publication Date: 2022.10.18 OFFICE KICK INC

AI summary

A desktop workspace that adjusts vertically includes a work surface platform, a base configured to sit on an existing platform, such as a desk, a height adjustable mechanism including at least one set of arms that connect at a pivot point(s) creating a scissoring motion to raise and lower the said work surface platform to various heights. A locking and unlocking mechanism may connect to the height adjustable mechanism. In some cases, the apparatus includes an adjustable mechanism to support items such as a keyboard. In some cases, the apparatus includes elements to raise items such as a monitor to an additional height.