Workstation Height Lock Pin Rack Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workstations with counter-balance mechanisms for supporting display monitors and user input devices on vertical surfaces are prone to unexpected movement due to additional user forces, have limited load range adjustment capabilities, and require difficult adjustments with hand tools, leading to instability and ergonomic issues.
Innovation Solution
A workstation with a movable carriage and counter-balance mechanism, featuring a lock mechanism with a pin and rack system actuated by a user-accessible actuator, allowing for easy height adjustment and stable positioning without relying solely on counter-balance force during use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a counter-balance mechanism is used to maintain the support position, then the vertical position can be maintained with minimal user force, but the mechanism moves unexpectedly when additional force is applied and has limited load range adjustment capability
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is engaged in advance to secure the carriage at the desired position before any additional force is applied during normal use. This preliminary locking action prevents the mechanism from moving unexpectedly when users apply force to adjust or use the workstation.
Solution Approach 2:
The counter-balance mechanism automatically maintains the carriage position without requiring continuous user intervention. The spring-loaded counter-balance device self-adjusts to hold the carriage at any position within its range, providing stable support without active control.
2Force
If the counter-balance adjustment screw is used to vary the force, then the counter-balance force can be adjusted to match the weight, but the adjustment is difficult and requires hand tools and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The counter-balance mechanism is designed with dynamic adjustability, allowing the force to be varied along its range of motion. The mechanism can be adjusted at any position within its operational range, providing continuous adaptability to different load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The counter-balance mechanism automatically adjusts and maintains the appropriate force to match the weight of the support and mounted devices. The spring-loaded design self-regulates the counter-balance force without requiring manual intervention during normal operation.
3Device complexity
If friction joints are used to maintain vertical position, then the position can be held without additional locking mechanisms, but the workstation floats downward with applied loads
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is engaged in advance to secure the carriage at the desired position before any additional force is applied during normal use. This preliminary locking action prevents the mechanism from moving unexpectedly when users apply force to adjust or use the workstation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded counter-balance device provides an opposing force to counteract the weight of the carriage and mounted devices. This counterbalancing action prevents the workstation from floating downward when loads are applied, maintaining stable vertical position.
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 stable and ergonomic height adjustment of workstations for various user heights, preventing unintended movement and supporting substantial loads, facilitating comfortable use in medical and healthcare environments.
Implementation Method 1
A counter-balance mechanism supports the carriage and the work platform. The counter-balance may exert a force sufficient to hold the carriage in position when the lock mechanism is disengaged.
Implementation Method 2
The lock mechanism may comprise a vertical rack that extends along the support. The lock mechanism may further comprise a pin mounted on the carriage such that the pin moves between a retracted position where it is disengaged from the rack and an extended position where the pin engages the rack.
Implementation Method 3
The pin may be moved to the retracted position by an actuator. The actuator may comprise a cable or a knob. The actuator may be connected to the pin by a linkage and is accessible by the end user.
Data Source
AI summary
A workstation comprises a support and a carriage mounted on the support and movable relative to the support. The carriage supports a work platform. A counter-balance supports the carriage and the work platform. A lock mechanism locks the carriage relative to the support in a desired position. The workstation may comprise a swing arm attached to the support at a vertical pivot such that the support may pivot relative to the swing arm. A method of operating the work station is also provided comprising moving an actuator to retract the pin from the rack. The weight of the support is supported by the counter-balance. The carriage is repositioned and the actuator is released to allow the pin to move to the extended position where it engages the rack.