Threaded Collar Support Arm for Tool-Free Monitor Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support arms for objects like monitors and computer components face difficulties in fine vertical adjustment, often requiring removal of the object and using aesthetically detracting springs or cables, which increases fabrication costs and complicates user operation.
Innovation Solution
A quick release attachment mechanism with a rotatable mounting plate, moveable connector within a slot, and threaded collars allows for easy vertical adjustment of support arms without tools, eliminating the need for springs or cables, and includes a channel for wire management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If circumferential recesses are used for vertical adjustment, then vertical positioning is possible, but adjustment requires removal of the object and is difficult to perform
Solution Approach 1:
The collar is designed to rotate dynamically along the threaded vertical member, enabling continuous vertical adjustment rather than discrete positioning at fixed recesses. This dynamic mechanism allows smooth movement without requiring object removal or complex locking procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded adjustment mechanism replaces the traditional recess-based mechanical system. Instead of requiring the collar to engage with pre-drilled circumferential recesses, the threaded system provides continuous adjustment through rotational motion, simplifying the adjustment process.
2Ease of operation
If springs or gas springs are used to support objects, then positioning adjustment is permitted, but aesthetic appearance is detracted and fabrication cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for visible springs or gas springs from the support arm structure. The threaded collar mechanism provides the necessary positioning adjustment capability without requiring external spring components, thereby maintaining aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded collar mechanism is self-contained and provides both support and positioning adjustment functions without requiring additional spring components. The system serves itself by using the threaded interaction between the collar and vertical member to provide both mechanical support and adjustment capability.
3Ease of operation
If springs or gas springs are used to support objects, then positioning adjustment is permitted, but fabrication cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the need for expensive spring components (gas springs or coiled springs) from the support arm assembly. The threaded collar mechanism provides equivalent positioning adjustment functionality using simpler, more cost-effective threaded fastening elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded collar and vertical member assembly uses inexpensive threaded fastening components instead of expensive spring mechanisms. This substitution with simpler, cheaper parts reduces fabrication costs while maintaining the essential positioning adjustment capability.
4Ease of operation
If cables are used to support objects, then positioning adjustment is permitted, but aesthetic appearance is detracted
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for visible cables or wires from the support arm structure. The threaded collar mechanism provides positioning adjustment through a compact mechanical interface that does not require external cable components, thereby maintaining clean aesthetic appearance.
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 easy, tool-free vertical adjustment of supported objects while maintaining an aesthetic appearance and reducing fabrication costs by eliminating the need for springs and cables, improving user convenience and aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
Each vertical support member 3 may have a thread 6 formed thereon... Each collar 4 may include a tooth or projection that fits within the thread 6... rotation of the collar in a first direction may cause the collar to move upwards along the vertical member 3
Data Source
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AI summary
A support apparatus includes a first substantially horizontal member positioned adjacent to first and second elongated substantially vertical member members. The first substantially horizontal member has a channel formed in its rear side. The channel is sized and configured to receive wiring for display devices. The first substantially horizontal member is supported or attached to first and second collars positioned on the first and second elongated substantially vertical members such that movement of the first and second collars adjusts a vertical position of the first substantially horizontal member. One or more display devices, such as LCD screens or computer monitors, may be positioned on the first substantially horizontal member. Preferably, each display device positioned on the first substantially horizontal member is connected to the first substantially horizontal member via a connector that utilizes a releasable attachment mechanism that permits an easy removal or connection to the first substantially horizontal member.