Foot platform and desk comprising a foot platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foot pedestals in ergonomic workplaces, such as driver's cabs, require manual adjustment and memory of optimal positions, which is inconvenient and distracting, especially for operators with varying leg lengths.
Innovation Solution
A remote-controlled locking device is integrated into the foot pedestal, allowing the foot rest plate to pivot upwards and lock in a desired position using a gas spring or Bowden cable mechanism, enabling easy adjustment without auxiliary energy or significant distraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual adjustment mechanism is used for the footrest plate, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the operator must remember and manually adjust the swivel position
Solution Approach 1:
The footrest plate automatically adjusts to the optimal position through spring action after the locking device is actuated. The operator only needs to trigger the release mechanism, and the system self-adjusts without requiring the operator to manually position it, eliminating the need to remember optimal positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is pre-loaded to store energy that automatically positions the footrest plate when released. The optimal position is predetermined by the spring's mechanical characteristics, so the adjustment action is already prepared and only needs to be triggered.
2Ease of operation
If a remote-controlled locking device with spring action is integrated into the foot platform, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex adjustment mechanism is extracted and separated into distinct functional components: the remote control device, the release mechanism, and the spring action system. This modular approach allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The footrest plate transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position through the spring mechanism. The system allows smooth movement during adjustment and then locks firmly in the optimal position, providing dynamic adaptability.
3Productivity
If the footrest plate is designed to pivot automatically under spring action, then the productivity improves by reducing adjustment time, but the reliability may deteriorate due to the complexity of the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is pre-loaded with energy to cushion and control the movement of the footrest plate during adjustment. This pre-stored energy ensures smooth, controlled motion and prevents sudden movements that could compromise reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device provides mechanical feedback through the release mechanism, allowing the operator to sense when the footrest plate is properly locked in position. The Bowden cable or friction element system provides tactile feedback that confirms reliable engagement.
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 allows for convenient and efficient adjustment of the foot pedestal to an optimal position without interrupting work, accommodating operators of different leg lengths and improving ergonomic comfort.
Implementation Method 1
Actuating the remote-controlled locking device releases the spring action on the footrest plate, causing the plate to pivot upwards
Implementation Method 2
The locking device of the foot platform according to the invention advantageously has a Bowden cable
Implementation Method 3
the locking means have a friction lining which is attached to the housing in the pivoting direction of the foot support plate, and the locking device is a spring-loaded friction element
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a foot platform (4) comprising a foot rest plate (6) mounted pivotably on a housing (10) of the foot platform (4), the lower face of said foot rest plate being supported by a spring (12), and further comprising mechanical detent means (17) for locking the foot rest plate (6) in a pivot position. The foot platform (4) is further provided with a remote-controlled mechanical locking means (19) for engagement with the mechanical detent means (17). The invention further relates to a desk having a foot platform.