Mechanism for electrically adjusting work surface position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically height adjustable sit stand desks often have exposed cables between the control unit and the user interface, which can interfere with user movement, risk damage from external contact, and are aesthetically unpleasing.
Innovation Solution
An adjustment mechanism assembly that includes a vertical guiding element, a work surface support element movable within the guiding element with electric actuation, a cable with a spiraled portion supported by a vertical support member, and strain relievers to manage cable tension and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If cables are exposed in electrical height adjustment mechanisms, then ease of installation and simplicity are improved, but cable damage risk and user interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is nested within the vertical guiding element, which acts as a protective housing. The guiding element contains the cable along its entire length, shielding it from external damage while allowing the cable to move vertically with the work surface support element. This nesting approach protects the cable without complicating the overall structure.
2Device complexity
If cables are exposed in electrical height adjustment mechanisms, then device complexity is reduced, but user movement interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is nested within the vertical guiding element, which confines it to a specific vertical path. This prevents the cable from protruding outward and interfering with user leg movement while maintaining a simple structural implementation without additional complex cable management components.
3Reliability
If cables are concealed within the vertical guiding element, then cable protection and aesthetics are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical guiding element serves multiple functions: it guides the work surface support element vertically, houses the cable to protect it from damage, and provides structural support for the entire mechanism. By making the guiding element multi-functional, cable protection is achieved without adding separate protective components or increasing overall device complexity.
4Reliability
If the cable is spiraled and supported by a vertical support member, then cable alignment and protection are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is configured in a spiral shape around the vertical support member, which allows it to accommodate vertical movement while maintaining proper alignment. The spiral configuration naturally guides the cable along a curved path that prevents tangling and ensures smooth movement, while the vertical support member provides a simple cylindrical structure that is easy to manufacture and install.
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 effectively conceals the cable within the vertical guiding element, reducing the risk of damage and interference while maintaining ease of movement and aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
the spiraled portion is configured to extend and contract with vertical movement of the work surface support element
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustment mechanism assembly for adjusting a work surface position vertically includes a vertical guiding element, a work surface support element engaged with the vertical guiding element and configured to be movable vertically with electric actuation, and means for the electric actuation comprising a cable. The adjustment mechanism assembly includes a vertical support member which extends vertically from within the vertical guiding element to outside it or resides completely within the vertical guiding element. The cable includes a spiraled portion between its termini, which spiraled portion is supported with respect to its central axis by the support member. The disclosed solution also has a wall structure and a table comprising such an adjustment mechanism assembly.