Height adjustable platforms and associated mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workstations lack efficient mechanisms for height adjustment and tilting, which can lead to discomfort and reduced productivity for users.
Innovation Solution
The development of a height adjustable wall mount assembly with a sliding bracket and counterbalance mechanism, along with a tilting work station that includes a hinge and lock assembly, allows for customizable height and tilt adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a height adjustable wall mount assembly with sliding bracket and counterbalance mechanism is implemented, then height adjustability and user comfort are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a counterbalance mechanism with springs that offset the weight of the workstation, enabling smooth height adjustment. The counterbalance system includes springs arranged to counteract the gravitational force on the workstation, allowing the user to easily raise and lower the work surface without excessive force requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding bracket mechanism transforms the static wall-mounted workstation into a dynamically adjustable system. The bracket slides along vertical rails within the wall cavity, enabling continuous height adjustment while maintaining stable positioning through friction and mechanical engagement features.
2Productivity
If a tilting workstation with hinge and lock assembly is implemented, then ergonomics and productivity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism enables the workstation to transition between fixed and tilted positions, creating dynamic ergonomic adjustments. The hinge allows rotation at the bottom edge of the workstation, facilitating tilting motion while maintaining structural integrity through the pin and bracket connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock assembly provides mechanical feedback through engagement and disengagement states, ensuring the workstation remains securely positioned during use. The lock mechanism includes visual and tactile indicators that confirm when the workstation is properly locked in place, preventing accidental movement during work activities.
3Area of stationary object
If the workstation is mounted within a wall cavity, then space utilization is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation system is nested within the wall cavity structure, with the mounting assembly integrated into the wall's internal space. The vertical rails are positioned within the wall cavity, and the sliding bracket operates within this confined space, effectively utilizing the wall's internal volume without protruding into the room.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate modular components including wall anchors, vertical rails, sliding brackets, and support structures. This segmentation allows for staged installation where each component can be independently positioned and secured, simplifying the overall installation process despite the complex final assembly.
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
This solution provides users with a comfortable and adjustable working environment, enhancing productivity and reducing user fatigue by allowing for precise height and tilt adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
The counterbalance mechanism can include a wheel cable and one or more springs
Implementation Method 2
The lift system can include a plunger and a biasing member. The biasing member can be coupled with the plunger and can bias the plunger in a first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile workstation can include a head unit assembly. A worksurface can be coupled to the head unit assembly and configured to translate with respect to the head unit assembly between an open configuration and a closed configuration. A glide can be rotatably coupled to the head unit assembly and engaged with the worksurface. The glide can include a latch configured to translate with respect to a glide body of the glide. The mobile workstation can include a worksurface opening mechanism having a locking configuration and an unlocking configuration. The worksurface opening mechanism can include a latch release handle moveably coupled to the head unit assembly. Movement of the latch release handle can transition the worksurface opening mechanism between the locked configuration and the unlocked configuration. A release assembly can selectively engage with the first latch. A lift system can bias the worksurface away from the head unit assembly.