Height adjustable workstation with zero idle power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional height adjustable workstations consume power even when the height adjustment mechanism is idle, leading to unnecessary energy usage.
Innovation Solution
A motorized height adjustable workstation with a mechanically actuated connector that disconnects power from the electric motor when the mechanism is idle, utilizing a controller with an AC/DC converter and timer to manage power distribution and prevent idle power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electric motor is continuously connected to power to enable height adjustment functionality, then the workstation can respond immediately to height adjustment requests, but power is consumed even when the mechanism is idle
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by using a timer controller to cycle the power connection to the electric motor. The motor is powered during active height adjustment operations and automatically disconnected after a predetermined idle period, creating a periodic on-off pattern that eliminates continuous power consumption while maintaining operational readiness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service through automatic detection of idle conditions and autonomous disconnection of power. The timer controller monitors usage patterns and automatically disconnects power without user intervention, and the system self-restarts power when height adjustment operations are detected, eliminating the need for manual power management.
2Loss of energy
If a mechanically actuated connector is added to disconnect power automatically, then idle power consumption is eliminated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanically actuated connector serves as an intermediary component between the power source and the electric motor. This mediator physically interrupts the electrical circuit when activated by the timer controller, providing a simple and reliable method to eliminate idle power consumption without requiring complex electronic switching or control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric assisted height adjustable workstation featuring an integrated user interface for height adjustment and power control resulting in zero standby power consumption is described. Power is connected to the workstation via a physical movement of the integrated user interface causing an integrated connector to complete a circuit. Power is disconnected between the power source and the workstation via physical retraction of the integrated UI or an automatic retraction if the user interface remains inactive for a period of time.