Height-Adjustable Work Surface with Gas Spring Rack-and-Pinion Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing height-adjustable work surfaces lack efficient mechanisms for continuous adjustment and secure positioning, particularly in directions other than vertical, limiting user flexibility and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A height-adjustable work surface assembly incorporating a gas spring, actuation mechanism, rack, and pinion system that allows for translation along a path angled relative to the vertical direction, enabling user-controlled adjustment and locking of the work surface's position using a cable assembly and tensioner subassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a lift mechanism is used to adjust the work surface position, then the user can change the height of the desk, but the mechanism lacks efficient continuous adjustment and secure positioning capabilities in directions other than vertical
Solution Approach 1:
The gas spring mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the work surface along an angled path, transitioning from static vertical-only adjustment to dynamic multi-directional adjustment. The gas spring provides controlled force during movement while the rack and pinion engage to lock the position, achieving both ease of operation and secure positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack and pinion mechanism acts as an intermediary between the gas spring and the work surface. The rack translates the angled motion from the gas spring into linear displacement of the work surface, while the pinion provides rotational motion and engagement with the rack teeth to enable secure positioning at desired locations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the work surface is adjusted along a path angled relative to the vertical direction, then user flexibility is enhanced, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the gas spring mechanism with the rack and pinion system into a single integrated assembly. The gas spring is positioned to work in conjunction with the rack, and the pinion is integrated with the gas spring mounting structure, reducing the number of separate components while achieving angled path adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack and pinion mechanism serves multiple functions: it translates the angled motion from the gas spring into linear work surface displacement, provides mechanical advantage for controlled movement, and enables secure positioning through tooth engagement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate mechanisms.
3Reliability
If a rack and pinion system is used for translation and positioning, then secure locking is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rack and pinion system is designed to automatically engage and lock the work surface at desired positions during adjustment. The teeth on the rack and pinion naturally mesh and lock when the work surface reaches a position, providing self-service positioning without requiring additional locking mechanisms or user intervention beyond initiating the adjustment.
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 precise and secure adjustment of the work surface in various directions, enhancing user comfort and flexibility by allowing the work surface to be easily raised or lowered while maintaining alignment and orientation.
Implementation Method 1
The gas spring may be operable in a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation, and may be operable to apply a force on the work portion in the second mode of operation to urge the work portion along the first path of motion
Data Source
AI summary
A height-adjustable work surface assembly includes a base portion and a work portion, and may include a gas spring, an actuation mechanism, a rack, and a pinion. The work portion is supported by the base portion for translation along a first path of motion. The gas spring is actuatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, and is operable to apply a force on the work portion in the unlocked position to urge the work portion along the first path of motion. The actuation mechanism is coupled to the gas spring to move the gas spring from the locked to the unlocked position. The rack is supported by the work portion or the base portion and includes a first plurality of teeth. The pinion is supported by the other of the work portion and the base portion and includes a second plurality of teeth.