Slidable Work Surface with Brake Assembly for Reclined Position Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tables and desks do not support keyboarding, mousing, and monitor work in a reclined position, limiting user flexibility and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A workstation with a movable work surface assembly that includes a base structure, a cover member that can slide between extended and retracted positions, and a brake assembly to maintain the cover member's position, allowing for both upright and reclined use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional table or desk is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but the user cannot work in a reclined position
Solution Approach 1:
The work surface assembly is made dynamic by allowing the cover member to slide between extended and retracted positions, enabling the workstation to adapt to both upright and reclined working positions. The brake assembly provides controlled positioning at any intermediate angle, transforming a static table into a dynamically adjustable workspace.
Solution Approach 2:
The workstation is segmented into distinct functional components: a base structure for stability, a movable cover member for the work surface, and a brake assembly for position control. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to provide both simplicity and versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cover member can slide freely between extended and retracted positions, then position flexibility is improved, but the cover member cannot be held stationary
Solution Approach 1:
The brake assembly automatically engages with the ramp structure's teeth to hold the cover member at any positioned, eliminating the need for manual locking mechanisms. The system self-regulates by using the ramp's geometric features to provide inherent positioning and holding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp structure acts as an intermediary between the movable cover member and the base structure. Its inclined surface with arrayed teeth provides both the sliding path for position adjustment and the engagement features for stable holding, mediating between motion and stability requirements.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the brake structure is always engaged with the ramp structure, then the cover member position is stable, but the cover member cannot be moved
Solution Approach 1:
The brake structure alternates between engaged and disengaged states, enabling periodic switching between stable holding and free movement. This periodic action allows the user to easily adjust the work surface position by disengaging the brake, then securely hold it at the desired position by re-engaging the brake.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the engagement parameter of the brake structure to transition between holding and moving states. By varying the engagement level (fully engaged for holding, disengaged for moving), the system provides both stability and ease of operation without requiring complex control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A workstation is disclosed. The workstation includes a tabletop or desktop having a work surface assembly that has a base structure, a cover member, and a brake assembly. The cover member is supported by the base structure and defines a work surface arranged at an inclination relative to a horizontal surface. The cover member is adapted to slide relative to the base structure between an extended position and a retracted position. Moreover, the brake assembly is adapted to prevent the sliding of the cover member relative to base structure and holds the cover member stationary with the base structure.