Multi-Cam Balance Mechanism for Constant-Force Display Lifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load balancing mechanisms for positioning devices, such as adjustable height mechanisms for displays, face challenges including high cost, space inefficiency, uneven support, and limited scalability, particularly when accommodating larger and heavier equipment, and there is a need for mechanisms that provide constant support force over a wide range of travel.
Innovation Solution
A lift mechanism incorporating a base, a support column, a mounting portion, an energy storage member, and a balance mechanism with a first cam, a second cam, and a wheel, which converts variable forces from the energy storage member into a substantially constant force applied to the mounting portion, allowing for adjustable positioning of loads with improved ergonomics and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If gas springs are used to provide lift assistance, then lifting force is provided, but cost increases and the mechanism wears out over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive gas springs with a cam mechanism that uses simple, durable mechanical components. The cam profile is designed to provide the necessary lifting force throughout the range of motion, eliminating the need for expensive, wear-prone gas spring components while maintaining reliability through simpler, more durable parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the pneumatic/hydraulic system of gas springs with a purely mechanical cam-based load balancing mechanism. This mechanical substitution eliminates seals, pistons, and gas chambers that are prone to wear and failure, replacing them with a robust cam profile that provides consistent lifting force through mechanical geometry alone.
2Force
If gas springs are used to provide lift assistance, then lifting force is provided, but the mechanism requires a significant amount of space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from the linear extension mechanism of gas springs to a rotational cam mechanism. The cam profile distributes the lifting force generation across a rotational dimension, allowing the same lifting function to be achieved in a more compact footprint. The cam's rotational motion converts vertical lifting force into a space-efficient mechanical arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism is designed to be integrated within the existing positioning device structure, with the cam profile nested within the mechanical assembly. This nesting allows the load balancing function to be incorporated without adding significant external dimensions, maintaining a compact overall device footprint while providing the necessary lifting force.
3Force
If wire springs are used to provide lift assistance, then lifting force is provided, but the assistance varies depending on spring compression or extension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of force generation from elastic deformation (springs) to geometric profile (cam). The cam profile is specifically designed with varying radius or height along its circumference, creating a force profile that compensates for the changing load throughout the range of motion. This geometric parameter variation provides substantially constant lifting assistance regardless of position.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism is designed to create an equipotential lifting effect throughout the range of motion, where the lifting force remains substantially constant at all positions. By carefully designing the cam profile geometry, the mechanism ensures that the operator experiences uniform assistance levels, making manual positioning equally easy throughout the entire travel range, similar to moving through a gravitational equipotential field.
4Force
If current load balancing mechanisms are used, then some issues are addressed, but weight capacity is limited and device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic cam profile that adapts the lifting force distribution throughout the range of motion. The cam geometry is designed to provide optimal force at each position, allowing the mechanism to handle heavier loads efficiently. The rotational dynamics of the cam allow for continuous adjustment of the force application point, enabling higher weight capacity without proportionally increasing device size.
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 solution provides a compact, cost-effective, and reliable load balancing system that supports a wide range of loads with constant force, enhancing ergonomics and extending the life of the mechanism by distributing stress across multiple cams, thus accommodating larger and heavier equipment while reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
The balance mechanism includes a first cam, a second cam rotationally coupled to the first cam, and a wheel rotationally coupled to the first cam and the second cam, wherein the first cam and the second cam are configured to convert a variable force exerted by the energy storage member into a substantially constant force applied to the mounting portion.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include a balance mechanism having a first cam and a second cam configured to convert a variable force exerted by the energy storage member into a substantially constant force applied to a mounting portion. The balance mechanism may be useful for balancing forces such that a user can set the height of an electronic display and/or other equipment attached to the balance mechanism at a number of heights within the range of travel allowed by the mechanism. Lift mechanisms, display positioning apparatuses, and height adjustable desks incorporating a multi-cam balance mechanism are also provided. A method of positioning a display is also provided.