Table Height Adjustment System with Automated Preset Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table arrangements lack efficient mechanisms for quick and safe adjustment of tabletop heights, which can lead to user discomfort and potential damage to objects or structures due to lack of precise height control.
Innovation Solution
A table arrangement with an actuator and controller system that allows for automatic height adjustment between pre-set positions, using a manipulatable actuator member to store and recall sitting and standing heights, and includes safety features to prevent movement beyond minimum and maximum positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If manual height adjustment mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adjustment speed and precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated actuator system that includes a motor, controller, and feedback sensors. The controller receives input signals and automatically controls the actuator to adjust the tabletop height, eliminating the need for manual cranks or levers while achieving precise and rapid positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates memory functionality that automatically stores and recalls preferred height positions. When a user selects a stored position, the actuator automatically moves the tabletop to that height without requiring manual intervention, making the system self-servicing for repetitive adjustment tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If full range height adjustment is allowed, then adaptability is improved, but safety and damage prevention worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements limit switches or sensors that detect when the tabletop reaches predetermined maximum and minimum height positions. When these limits are reached, the system automatically stops the actuator movement, preventing over-travel that could damage the adjustment mechanism or objects on/near the table. This feedback control allows full adaptability within safe boundaries.
3Ease of operation
If automatic height adjustment is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it receives adjustment commands, controls the actuator motor, stores preferred positions in memory, recalls stored positions, and monitors limit switches for safety. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single microcontroller unit, the system achieves high ease of operation without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A table arrangement includes a height adjustment mechanisms for movement of one or more height adjustable tabletops. When more than one tabletop is present, each of the tabletops can be independently moveable. Embodiments of the table arrangement can be configured so that a user can manipulate an actuation mechanism to have the tabletop automatically moved to a pre-selected position without the user having to manually control the actuation mechanism to cause the tabletop to move to that pre-selected position.