Height adjustable support surface and system for encouraging human movement and promoting wellness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional height-adjustable sit-stand desks lack intelligence and fail to adapt to user changes and environmental conditions, leading to inconsistent use and reduced health benefits due to lack of biometric data integration and adaptive operation.
Innovation Solution
A power-assisted sit-stand workstation with sensors and an electronic controller that adjusts height based on user input, biometric data, and environmental factors, using pressure mats, ultrasonic range finders, and microprocessors to create personalized schedules and encourage regular movement through alerts and feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional height-adjustable sit-stand desks are used, then basic height adjustment functionality is provided, but they lack intelligence and fail to adapt to user changes and environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through pressure-sensitive mats that detect user presence and weight, ultrasonic range finders that measure distance to objects, and microphones that capture audio signals. This sensory feedback enables the electronic controller to automatically adjust desk height and operation modes based on real-time user conditions and environmental factors, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity by making the system responsive rather than statically complex
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic controller autonomously manages desk height adjustment and operational parameters without requiring manual intervention from the user. The system self-adjusts based on detected user presence, inferred fitness levels from weight data, and environmental conditions, thereby providing adaptive functionality while reducing the perceived complexity for the end user
2Productivity
If manual height adjustment is used, then device complexity is low, but user compliance and consistent use are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically adjusting desk height before the user needs to work, based on detected presence and inferred preferences. The electronic controller proactively manages height transitions without waiting for user commands, thereby improving compliance by removing the burden of manual operation while the complexity is confined to the automated control system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical height adjustment with an electronically-controlled motorized system. The mechanical act of manual cranking or lifting is substituted with automated motor-driven height adjustment controlled by sensors and microprocessors, thereby improving user compliance through automation while concentrating complexity in the electronic control subsystem
3Object-affected harmful factors
If fixed height desks are used, then device complexity is minimal, but health benefits from movement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fixed-height desk into a dynamic system that automatically adjusts height based on detected user conditions and environmental factors. The electronic controller continuously monitors sensor data and modifies desk height in real-time, providing movement-induced health benefits while containing the complexity within the automated control and adjustment mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the height parameter of the desk based on inferred user fitness levels from weight data, detected presence, and environmental conditions. This parameter adaptation provides health benefits by encouraging movement and posture variation, while the complexity of parameter management is handled autonomously by the electronic controller and sensor system
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 workstation effectively promotes regular standing and sitting intervals, adapting to user fitness levels and habits, thereby enhancing musculoskeletal health and reducing the risk of musculoskeletal discomfort and chronic pain.
Implementation Method 1
pressure mats
Implementation Method 2
ultrasonic range finders
Data Source
AI summary
A table assembly comprising a worktop, a frame supporting the worktop, an integrated drive subassembly, a memory storing defined conditions, a control system including a user input control interface and at least one processor, the input control interface for receiving user commands to initiate changes in worktop height, the processor programmed to perform the steps of a) at any time, respond to direct manual user input via the interface to change the worktop height and b) enable a reminder function to periodically change the worktop height by i) monitoring worktop use, ii) comparing worktop use to at least one of the defined conditions, iii) after the at least one condition is met, providing a signal to the user to change the worktop height to a different position, iv) monitoring for user input via the interface to change the worktop height and (v) upon each of the worktop height being changed prior to providing a signal to the user to change the worktop height and the worktop height being changed subsequent to providing a signal to the user to change the worktop height, repeating steps (i) through (v).