Variable height platform system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sit/stand systems are complex to assemble and maintain, which increases labor and time costs for businesses, and they often disrupt office décor unity, with limited customization options within a reasonable price range, and there is a lack of proven health benefits acceptance among all office workers.
Innovation Solution
A variable height platform system with adjustable frame and leg assemblies, interchangeable tabletops, and a capacitive sensor array for user position tracking, allowing easy assembly, customization, and integration into existing office décor, while promoting ergonomic health through adjustable height settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sit/stand systems are implemented in office, then ergonomic health benefits are improved, but assembly complexity and labor costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate modular components: a base unit with drive mechanism and individual tabletop units that can be independently assembled and configured. This segmentation allows for simpler assembly procedures while maintaining the full ergonomic functionality of height adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed as a universal platform that can support multiple different tabletop configurations and styles. This multi-functionality allows businesses to implement ergonomic sit/stand capabilities without requiring complex custom assemblies for each desk, reducing overall assembly complexity while preserving health benefits.
2Reliability
If traditional sit/stand systems are implemented in office, then ergonomic health benefits are improved, but office décor unity is disrupted due to limited customization options
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the functional base unit from the aesthetic tabletop components, the system allows independent selection of tabletop styles, materials, and finishes. This enables customization to match various office décor themes while maintaining the core ergonomic functionality of the base unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow the desktop environment to adapt to different user needs and décor requirements. Tabletops can be swapped, positioned, or configured in different arrangements, providing dynamic versatility that accommodates both ergonomic health benefits and aesthetic unity.
3Reliability
If traditional sit/stand systems are implemented in office, then ergonomic health benefits are improved, but assembly time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design with pre-assembled base units and tabletop components enables rapid deployment. Each module can be independently prepared and then quickly connected, significantly reducing assembly time compared to traditional integrated systems that require complex on-site construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The base units and tabletop components are pre-assembled and pre-configured during manufacturing, with adjustment mechanisms and connection interfaces prepared in advance. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex on-site assembly procedures, reducing both assembly time and labor costs while preserving full ergonomic functionality.
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 system simplifies assembly and customization, maintains office décor unity, and encourages ergonomic health by automatically adjusting height based on user activity, reducing assembly time and costs, and providing customizable options within a reasonable budget.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitive sensor array configured to detect user position and movement on the platform
Implementation Method 2
at least one gas spring configured to assist in supporting and moving the platform between the elevated position and the lowered position
Data Source
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AI summary
A variable height platform system comprises a frame assembly, at least two leg assemblies, a drive mechanism, and a sensor. The frame assembly is configured to support and be removably connected to a tabletop. The drive mechanism is configured to either extend or retract each leg assembly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis to set a height of the frame assembly in an elevated position for use. The sensor is configured to sense position and movement of a user in a predetermined area including an area of the variable height platform system and an area proximate the variable height platform system. The controller is operatively connected to the sensor and drive mechanism. The controller is configured to operate the drive mechanism in response to the sensor sensing the position and movement of the user in the predetermined area.