Modular workstation assembly and method of assemblage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current office and school furniture systems lack flexibility, reconfigurability, and mobility, failing to adapt to individual needs and accommodate multiple devices efficiently, with limited ability to change styles and dimensions, and require more tools and skill for assembly.

Innovation Solution

A modular workstation assembly comprising multiple modules with detachable components arranged in basic geometries, allowing users to work from sitting or standing positions, stow items, and conceal sections, with hinged articulation, facilitating disassembly, portability, and minimal tool requirements for assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional office furniture systems are used, then basic workspace functionality is provided, but flexibility and reconfigurability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The workstation is divided into multiple detachable modules including desk modules, cabinet modules, and shelving units. Each module can be independently assembled, configured, and repositioned to create different workspace layouts and functionalities, enabling flexibility without requiring complex integrated systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular components are designed with universal connection mechanisms that allow the same basic modules to serve multiple functions. For example, cabinet modules can be configured for storage, display, or equipment housing, and desk modules can accommodate various work surfaces and configurations, reducing the need for specialized complex furniture pieces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed workstation designs are used, then structural stability is maintained, but mobility and reconfigurability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereconfigurabilityVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The workstation system transitions from a fixed static design to a dynamic reconfigurable system. Modules are connected through detachable fastening mechanisms that provide stable connections during use but allow easy separation and reconfiguration, enabling the structure to adapt to different spatial and functional requirements while maintaining stability during operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If complex assembly systems are used, then comprehensive functionality is achieved, but tool and skill requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional capabilityVSAvoidassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The modular components incorporate self-aligning features and tool-free fastening mechanisms that enable users to assemble and configure the workstation without requiring specialized tools or technical expertise. The design includes built-in alignment guides, snap-fit connections, and intuitive assembly sequences that allow end-users to perform the assembly themselves

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Area of stationary object

If traditional desk designs are used, then basic work surface functionality is provided, but space efficiency and organization are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkspace areaVSAvoidorganization flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The workstation design extends functionality from a traditional two-dimensional desk surface to a three-dimensional modular system. Vertical cabinet modules, stacked shelving units, and multi-level configurations utilize vertical space and depth dimensions, providing extensive storage and organization capacity without increasing the horizontal footprint of the workspace

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11571065B2Modular workstation assembly and method of assemblage
Publication Date: 2023.02.07 HUBERT GARTH
  • US11571065B2 patent drawing
  • US11571065B2 patent drawing
  • US11571065B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular workstation assembly and method of assemblage comprises multiple modules constructed from a relatively small number of components and arranged in several basic geometries. The workstation assembly includes a desk module, an upper cabinet module, a pair of lateral cabinet modules, and a pair of door modules that hingedly join with the other modules. The door modules hingedly join to the lateral cabinet modules to pivotably articulate between an open and closed position. The modules detachably couple in a sequential pattern, forming multiple styles of workstations operable. The different workstations are arranged, so as to enable a user to work from a sitting or standing position, stow items on multiple shelves, and selectively conceal sections of the workstation with hinged articulation by a pair of lateral modules. The modules are further configured for facilitated disassembly and stowage, one-man portability, and minimal tool and skillset requirements for assemblage.