Adjustable Support Arm With Quick-Release Joint and Slack Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable support arms lack sufficient adjustability and ease of use, particularly in accommodating different users and changing work positions, such as between seated and standing, and do not efficiently manage slack in joints.
Innovation Solution
The adjustable support arm features a quick-release joint, friction cartridge assembly, adjustable panning insert, and accessory fastening mechanism, allowing for wide range of height, depth, tilt, and swivel adjustments, with dampening and easy attachment/detachment of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable support arms provide wide range of height, depth, and angle adjustments, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support arm is divided into multiple independent adjustable segments (height adjustment mechanism, depth adjustment mechanism, angle adjustment mechanism), where each segment can be adjusted independently. This segmentation allows wide adaptability while keeping each individual mechanism relatively simple and modular.
Solution Approach 2:
The support arm employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow continuous variation of height, depth, and angle parameters. The mechanisms enable smooth transitions between positions without requiring complex discrete steps, achieving wide adaptability through continuous dynamic adjustment.
2Ease of operation
If quick-release joints are added for easy removal and attachment, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release joint incorporates a spring-loaded latch mechanism that automatically engages when components are connected and can be released by simple user action. The mechanism serves itself by using spring force to maintain engagement without requiring additional locking steps or complex fastening procedures.
3Reliability
If friction cartridge assembly is used to reduce joint slack, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The friction cartridge assembly applies friction control locally at specific joint locations rather than throughout the entire support arm. This localized application reduces slack where needed while maintaining ease of adjustment through controlled friction that can be overcome with reasonable force during adjustment operations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are integrated, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Each adjustment function (height, depth, angle) is separated into independent mechanisms that can be operated separately. This segmentation allows users to adjust only the specific parameter needed without affecting other parameters, maintaining operational simplicity while achieving comprehensive adaptability through combination of multiple independent adjustments.
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
Enables users to easily adjust and secure accessories like monitors and keyboards to ergonomic positions, reducing strain and optimizing workspace, while minimizing joint slack and enhancing user flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The quick-release joint may comprise a spring-loaded latch coupled to the base assembly which releasably engages an indentation in a connector shaft secured to the arm assembly
Implementation Method 2
The friction cartridge assembly may comprise a taper-lock bushing surrounding a portion of the connector shaft. Set screws positioned adjacent to the taper-lock bushing can be utilized to cause the taper-lock bushing to deflect inward towards the connector shaft as the set screws are driven inward, thus increasing the friction between the connector shaft and the taper-lock bushing
Implementation Method 3
a bearing positioned in the hub of the base assembly for reducing the amount of force required to adjust the side-to-side motion of the support arm
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable support arm capable of providing users with a wide range of height, depth, tilt, and swivel options. The adjustable support arm may comprise an arm assembly releasably mounted to a base assembly. In further embodiments, the adjustable support arm may also comprise an articulating joint connected to the arm assembly, and an accessory bracket assembly connected to the articulating joint. A quick-release joint comprising a spring-loaded pivot latch may be utilized to releasably connect the arm assembly to the base assembly. To dampen side-to-side movement of the arm assembly, the adjustable support arm may also comprise a friction cartridge assembly comprising a taper-lock bushing and one or more set screws. A ring-shaped, adjustable panning insert can be coupled to the arm assembly to restrict the range of side-to-side motion of the support arm. The adjustable arm can further comprise a quick-release accessory fastening mechanism for easy removal and attachment of a mounted object (e.g., an electronic display, keyboard, or other item) to the support arm.