Gas-Spring Computer Lift With Pulley Stroke Doubling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer monitor and keyboard lifts often require adjustments for weight balance and do not accommodate varying user heights, leading to instability and health issues due to improper ergonomic positioning.
Innovation Solution
A computer lift system utilizing a gas spring cylinder and pulley/cable combination that allows for a greater range of motion and counterbalances the weight, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and accommodating user heights from 62 to 76 inches without requiring additional force for lifting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a series of pulleys with tool adjustment is used to balance weight, then the lift can support large monitors, but the device complexity increases and requires manual adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a spring mechanism that acts as a counterweight to balance the load. The spring provides an opposing force to the weight of the monitor and keyboard, automatically balancing the lift without requiring complex pulley systems or manual adjustment. This resolves the contradiction by simplifying the device while maintaining load-bearing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-based counterbalance system is self-adjusting and requires no manual intervention. The spring automatically adapts to different weight configurations, eliminating the need for tool-based adjustments of pulley tension. This makes the system self-service while maintaining the ability to support large monitors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a counter-weight system is used, then the lift can accommodate different weights, but it only works within a very small weight range
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is a dynamic system that automatically adjusts its force output based on the load applied. Unlike fixed counterweights that only work at specific weights, the spring continuously adapts to different weight configurations within a broad range, maintaining stability throughout. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between versatility and reliability.
3Length of moving object
If the lift height is increased to accommodate taller users, then the range of motion improves, but the height profile becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by changing the spatial arrangement from a purely vertical extension to a compact folded configuration. The lift mechanism is designed to collapse into a minimal height profile when not in use, while still providing full range of motion when extended. This dimensional transformation allows the lift to accommodate taller users without permanently increasing the height profile.
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
The system provides a stable and adjustable ergonomic solution that ensures proper monitor and keyboard positioning, reducing user effort and preventing health issues associated with improper placement, while maintaining a compact height profile.
Implementation Method 1
A computer lift system utilizing a gas spring cylinder and pulley/cable combination that allows for a greater range of motion and counterbalances the weight, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and accommodating user heights from 62 to 76 inches without requiring additional force for lifting.
Implementation Method 2
A computer lift system utilizing a gas spring cylinder and pulley/cable combination that allows for a greater range of motion and counterbalances the weight
Data Source
AI summary
A computer lift has a stationary lift assembly and a movable monitor mount containing a gas spring cylinder fixed at one end, using a pulley assembly and cable to double the stroke of the gas spring cylinder by floating the pulley assembly. A positive lock allows the lift to stay in position after moving to a desired height, while maintaining easy movability.