Variable height platform system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sit/stand systems face challenges in assembly complexity, labor costs, and maintaining office decor cohesion, as well as limited customization options within a reasonable price range, which discourages businesses from adopting these systems due to their complex construction and limited finish and color options.
Innovation Solution
A variable height platform system with a frame assembly, leg assemblies, a drive mechanism, and a connector assembly that allows for interchangeable tabletops, adjustable frame length, and a capacitive sensor for user position sensing, enabling easy assembly, customization, and integration with existing office decor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sit/stand systems are implemented, then ergonomic health benefits are achieved, 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 a tabletop unit. The leg assemblies are detached from the main structure during shipping and assembled on-site, reducing pre-assembly complexity while maintaining full functionality. This segmentation allows businesses to assemble systems in-house with minimal labor costs.
2Reliability
If traditional sit/stand systems are implemented, then ergonomic health benefits are achieved, but office decor cohesion is compromised due to limited customization options
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit is designed as a universal platform that can support multiple tabletop configurations and styles. The standardized connection interface allows different tabletops to be interchangeably mounted on the same base, enabling businesses to maintain office decor cohesion while providing ergonomic functionality. The system can adapt to various aesthetic requirements without requiring different mechanical bases.
3Ease of operation
If fully assembled sit/stand systems are purchased, then immediate usability is achieved, but labor costs and setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit is pre-assembled and tested at the factory with the drive mechanism, motor, and control systems integrated and verified. Only the tabletop component requires on-site attachment, which is designed to be a simple, tool-free or minimal-tool operation. This preliminary assembly of the complex mechanical subsystems eliminates the need for lengthy on-site assembly while ensuring immediate usability upon tabletop attachment.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular interchangeable tabletops are implemented, then customization options increase, but connector assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates self-aligning and self-locking features that guide the tabletop into the correct position and automatically secure it to the base. The mechanical design includes alignment pins, tapered surfaces, or cam-actuated locking mechanisms that require minimal user intervention. This self-service approach enables easy tabletop interchangeability without requiring complex adjustment procedures or specialized tools.
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, allows for easy customization of tabletops, and maintains office decor cohesion, reducing labor costs and providing a range of customization options within a reasonable price range, promoting healthier work habits by encouraging periodic standing breaks.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitive sensor for user position sensing
Implementation Method 2
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
Data Source
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.