Dual-Height Workstation Layout for Seated and Standing Nurse Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional nurse stations are inefficient for ambulatory nurses who need to access computers frequently, as they require cumbersome movements between sitting and standing positions, and the existing configurations often expose clutter and restrict access, making it difficult for nurses to perform tasks quickly and aesthetically pleasing.
Innovation Solution
A dual-height workstation with adjustable, curved work surfaces and hidden electronic component storage, allowing for seamless transitions between standing and sitting while maintaining an uncluttered and aesthetically pleasing appearance, with articulating display arms for optimal user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional nurse station includes a large sitting height work surface and surrounding structure, then administrative nurses can perform data entry tasks, but patient attending nurses must make cumbersome movements to access computers and the structure restricts access and exposes clutter
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation is segmented into two distinct height levels: a lower sitting height work surface and an upper standing height work surface. This segmentation allows different user groups (administrative nurses and patient attending nurses) to access the system in their preferred positions without interfering with each other, eliminating the need for cumbersome movements between positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a vertical dimension to the workstation by incorporating both sitting and standing height surfaces. This dimensional expansion allows multiple users with different height requirements to simultaneously access the computer system, transforming a single-level constrained space into a multi-level accessible environment.
2Ease of manufacture
If electronic components are stored under the work surface, then they are hidden from view, but the area becomes cluttered and less aesthetically pleasing
Solution Approach 1:
Electronic components are nested within a housing structure that is integrated into the workstation framework. The housing contains compartments and storage spaces for routers, switches, cables, and other equipment, keeping them concealed within the structural elements rather than exposed on the work surface or creating visual clutter.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the surrounding structure closes off the space for administrative nurses, then privacy is provided, but access for patient attending nurses is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation space is segmented into different access zones corresponding to the two height levels. The surrounding structure provides privacy for the lower sitting area while the upper standing area remains more accessible, allowing different user groups to access the system according to their needs without one group blocking the other.
Data Source
AI summary
A work surface arrangement comprising a support structure extending upward from a base end, a first work surface forming member supported by the support structure at a first vertical height, a second work surface forming member supported by the support structure at a second vertical height and extending to a first side of the support structure where the second vertical height is lower than the first vertical height, the second member including an undersurface, a first cover supported by the support structure and extending downward below the first member to a lower edge below the second vertical height, a second cover supported by the support structure and extending downward from a height proximate the undersurface of the second member and spaced from the first cover to bound a cavity, at least one horizontal channel supported by the support structure between the first and second work surface forming members to face the first side.