Adjustable Keyboard Support Arm for Space-Limited Workstations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional computer workstations are inefficient and awkward to use due to limited space, especially in environments like the airline industry where flexibility is needed to accommodate various users, as the video display monitor is typically mounted on top of the CPU/disk-drive cabinet, leaving little room for the keyboard and making adjustments difficult.
Innovation Solution
A movable support member system within the workstation, including a panel with a notch and channel, a sliding member, and a rotatable arm, allows for vertical and rotational movement of the keyboard support, increasing space efficiency and user comfort by enabling adjustable positioning of the keyboard relative to the work surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the video display monitor is mounted on top of the CPU/disk-drive cabinet, then the monitor is supported, but the space in front of the cabinet is reduced leaving little room for the keyboard
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the keyboard support shelf movable rather than fixed. The shelf can be adjusted in position and angle to accommodate different keyboard sizes and user preferences, transforming a static space constraint into a dynamic solution that adapts to various operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the keyboard support into a third dimension by creating an outwardly extending lower shelf that projects forward from the cabinet. This dimensional extension provides adequate keyboard space without increasing the cabinet's footprint or compromising the space in front of it.
2Area of stationary object
If a lower outwardly extending shelf is provided to support the keyboard, then keyboard space is increased, but the arrangement becomes inefficient and awkward to use
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf is designed with adjustable features that allow it to move and reposition. This dynamic capability enables the shelf to be optimized for different keyboard sizes and user ergonomics, eliminating the awkwardness of a fixed, one-size-fits-all arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by allowing the shelf's position, angle, and orientation to be modified. These adjustable parameters enable optimization of the keyboard support area for different users and applications, transforming an inefficient fixed arrangement into an adaptable system.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the workstation components are fixed in position, then the structure is stable, but it is difficult to adjust components to account for variety of users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by implementing adjustable support structures that can be positioned and locked at various locations. The keyboard shelf and monitor support incorporate mechanisms for movement and stabilization, allowing the workstation to maintain stability when configured while enabling adaptation to different user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The workstation design incorporates multi-functional supports that can serve multiple users with different requirements. The adjustable components allow a single workstation to universally accommodate various keyboard sizes, monitor positions, and user preferences without requiring multiple fixed configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A work station includes a work surface and a panel with a notch formed therein and a channel formed therethrough. A panel support base is positioned within the notch of the panel, a sliding member is positioned within the channel of the panel and extends through the work surface, a support member is positioned at an end portion of the sliding member extending through the work surface, and an arm rotatably coupled between the panel support base and the sliding member. The arm is rotatable to move the sliding member and adjust the position of the support member relative to the work surface.