Work surface and mounting assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work surfaces lack flexibility and space optimization, as they are often fixed in place and do not allow for adjustable height or compact storage when not in use, which limits user mobility and space utilization.
Innovation Solution
A movable work surface assembly that can be removably coupled to a mounting system, allowing the work surface to be easily positioned and adjusted in height, with a compact mounting design that exposes a door and aperture for support when in use, and retracts to a low-profile position when not in use, enabling flexible placement and space optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed work surface is used, then structural stability is maintained, but flexibility and space optimization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly incorporates a door mechanism that transitions between closed and open positions, allowing the structure to adapt between a compact fixed state and an expanded usable state. This dynamic element enables the work surface system to provide both stability when closed and flexibility when open, resolving the contradiction between structural rigidity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a door portion, an arm mechanism, and an aperture. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while contributing to the overall system's flexibility. The door can open to reveal the arm and aperture for work surface attachment, providing adaptability without compromising the stability of the mounted structure.
2Area of stationary object
If a fixed mounting system is used, then installation simplicity is maintained, but space optimization and mobility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The arm mechanism is nested within the door structure, and the aperture is integrated into the door assembly. When the door is closed, these components are contained within the compact mounting assembly, optimizing space. When the door opens, the nested components can extend to provide full functionality for work surface attachment, achieving space optimization without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The door serves multiple functions: it acts as a protective cover when closed, a structural support when open, and a mechanism for revealing the arm and aperture. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall mounting system while maximizing space optimization capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If the mounting portion remains exposed, then work surface attachment is enabled, but compact storage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The door mechanism dynamically transitions between closed (compact storage) and open (attachment enabled) states. When work surface attachment is needed, the door opens to expose the arm and aperture. When not in use, the door closes to achieve compact storage. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction by providing both ease of operation and compact storage at different operational phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm and aperture are extracted from the main body only when needed, concealed within the door structure during storage. This extraction principle allows the mounting portion to maintain a compact form factor while enabling full attachment functionality when the door is opened, balancing ease of operation with compact storage requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a work surface and mounting assembly. More specifically, a work surface that is selectively coupleable to a mounting assembly.