BIFOCAL DISPLAY POSITIONING APPARATUS AND METHOD
An apparatus for positioning items such as an electronic display, a keyboard, and/or a work surface. The apparatus includes a movement mechanism that provides multiple tilt positions for one or more displays supported by the apparatus. In some cases the movement mechanism enables adjustment of the display(s) between a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a generally declining viewing configuration. In some cases the apparatus includes a keyboard tray and a display mount coupled to a riser adapted to support an electronic display. The riser may be movable with respect to an operator or support member between a sitting position and a standing position. Methods for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard are also included.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/441,774, filed Feb. 11, 2011, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELDEmbodiments of the invention generally relate to devices that can move work surfaces and/or equipment such as electronic displays, keyboards, and other items between multiple positions relative to an operator.
BACKGROUNDMany jobs involve working at desks, optionally with personal computers and/or display monitors. In such jobs, the personal computers and/or display monitors may be used by multiple operators at different times during a day. In some settings, one computer and/or monitor may be used by multiple people of different sizes and having different preferences in a single day. Given the differences in people's size and differences in their preferences, a monitor or display adjusted at one setting for one individual may be inappropriate for another individual. The same can be true for the position of the desk surface itself. For instance, a child would have different physical space needs than an adult using the same computer and monitor. As another example, a user wearing bifocal lenses would require different display tilt settings than a user without bifocal lenses. Further, a single user may wish to periodically both sit and stand while using the desk surface and/or monitor. In some situations, users desire to perform operations in various postures. For example, one may desire to perform some operations in a seated position and others in a standing position. In such situations, it may be required that both the seated operations and the standing operations be done at the same workstation, which may include a desk surface, computer monitor, a keyboard, and/or a mouse. Such a user will desire the desk surface, monitor and/or other equipment to be at different heights while sitting and standing.
As adjustable height mechanisms for displays have become more widespread and users have experienced their advantages, users are more frequently adjusting the height of their monitors and other equipment. Further, such adjustments are now more frequently desired over a wide range of travel.
SUMMARYEmbodiments of the invention are generally directed to devices that can electronic displays and optionally other items such as keyboards, work surfaces, etc., between multiple positions relative to an operator. One example of a device provides at least a first configuration with a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a second configuration with a generally declining viewing configuration. Switching from the first configuration to the second configuration enables an operator to view an electronic display in a generally declining orientation (e.g., looking ahead and downward), which can be useful for operators wearing bifocal lenses.
According to one aspect of the invention, an apparatus for positioning an electronic display includes a riser, a movement mechanism coupled to the riser, and a display mount coupled to the movement mechanism and the riser. The riser includes a support column and a bracket movably coupled together and a first lift mechanism coupled between the support column and the bracket. The display mount is adapted to support an electronic display, such as a computer monitor, television, touch screen, and other such devices. Relative movement between the bracket and the support column provides simultaneous height adjustment of the movement mechanism and the display mount. At each height, the display mount can be configured in a first configuration that provides a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a second configuration that provides a generally declining viewing configuration. The movement mechanism provides the display mount with at least a first position relative to the riser and a second position relative to the riser. The movement mechanism and the display mount provide a supported electronic display in the first position with a maximum backward tilt to provide the generally horizontal viewing configuration. They also provide a supported electronic display in the second position with a maximum backward tilt of at least 30 degrees to provide the generally declining viewing configuration. The maximum backward tilt in the first position is smaller than the maximum backward tilt in the second position.
According to another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard is provided. The apparatus includes a riser, a movement mechanism coupled to the riser, a display mount coupled to the movement mechanism, and a keyboard tray coupled to the riser. The riser includes a support column and a bracket movably coupled together and a first lift mechanism coupled between the support column and the bracket. Relative movement between the bracket and the support column provides simultaneous height adjustment of the movement mechanism, the display mount, and the keyboard tray. At each height provided by the riser, the movement mechanism provides the display mount with a first position relative to the riser in the first configuration and a second position relative to the riser in the second configuration. In the first position, the movement mechanism and the display mount provide a supported electronic display with a maximum backward tilt to provide the generally horizontal viewing configuration. In the second position, the movement mechanism and the display mount provide a supported electronic display with a maximum backward tilt to provide the generally declining viewing configuration. The maximum backward tilt in the second position is greater than the maximum backward tilt in the first position.
Another aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard. The apparatus includes a riser, a keyboard tray coupled to the riser, adapted to support a keyboard, a movement mechanism coupled to the riser, and a display mount coupled to the movement mechanism and adapted to support an electronic display. The riser provides simultaneous height adjustment of the movement mechanism, the display mount, and the keyboard tray between a sitting height and a standing height, thus providing a sit-to-stand apparatus. At each of at least two heights provided by the riser, the display mount and the keyboard tray are configurable in a first configuration providing a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a second configuration providing a generally declining viewing configuration. In the second configuration a vertical distance between the display mount and the keyboard tray is different than in the first configuration. The movement mechanism provides the display mount with a first position relative to the riser in the first configuration and a second position relative to the riser in the second configuration. In the second position the display mount and the display can tilt back from a vertical orientation to a greater degree than is available in the first position.
Accordingly to another aspect of the invention, a method for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard is provided. The method includes supporting an electronic display with a positioning apparatus. The positioning apparatus includes a riser, a display mount coupled to the riser and adapted to support the electronic display, a keyboard tray coupled to the riser, and a movement mechanism coupled between the riser and the display mount. The method also includes supporting a keyboard with the keyboard tray. The riser is adjusted to simultaneously adjust the height of the display mount, the electronic display, the keyboard tray, the keyboard, and the movement mechanism between a sitting position and a standing position. At both the sitting position and the standing position, the method includes configuring the display mount and the keyboard tray in a first configuration to provide a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a second configuration to provide a generally declining viewing configuration. In the second configuration a vertical distance between the display mount and the keyboard tray is less than in the first configuration. In addition, the movement mechanism provides the display mount with a first position relative to the riser in the first configuration and a second position relative to the riser in the second configuration. In the second position the display mount and the display can tilt back from a vertical orientation to a greater degree than in the first position.
These and various other features and advantages will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description.
The following drawings are illustrative of particular embodiments of the present invention and therefore do not limit the scope of the invention. The drawings are not to scale (unless so stated) and are intended for use in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description. Embodiments of the present invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like numerals denote like elements.
The following detailed description is exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the following description provides some practical illustrations for implementing exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Examples of constructions, materials, dimensions, and manufacturing processes are provided for selected elements, and all other elements employ that which is known to those of ordinary skill in the field of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many of the noted examples have a variety of suitable alternatives.
Embodiments of the invention generally provide apparatuses capable of positioning various equipment relative to a human operator. For example, in some cases a positioning apparatus can support items such as work surfaces, electronic displays, a laptop computer (i.e., notebook), a keyboard, and/or other computing equipment, such as a mouse. As used herein, the terms display and electronic display are used to refer to televisions, computer monitors, tablet computers (e.g., touch screen computers), and other types of displays capable of displaying images from electronic signals. The embodiments discussed herein provide several examples of positioning apparatuses capable of positioning such types of computing equipment, however, it is contemplated that embodiments of the invention can be used for positioning a wide variety of items.
Applicants have included
As will be discussed further herein, the display mount 2002 and the keyboard tray 2004 are configuable in multiple viewing configurations at each height provided by the riser 2006. In certain embodiments the display mount 2002 and the keyboard tray 2004 are configurable in at least a first configuration that provides a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a second configuration that provides a generally declining viewing configuration. Switching from the first configuration to the second configuration enables an operator to view the display 2010 in a generally declining orientation (e.g., looking ahead and downward), which can be useful for operators wearing bifocal lenses.
The positioning apparatus 2000 also includes a movement mechanism 2020, which couples the display mount 2002 to the riser 2006. The movement mechanism 2020 provides multiple positions for the display mount 2002 and the attached display 2010 relative to the riser 2006 and an operator. In this example the movement mechanism 2020 provides at least a first position 2022 (shown with the display illustrated in phantom) relative to the riser in the first viewing configuration. The movement mechanism 2020 also provides at least a second position 2024 relative to the riser 2006 in the second viewing configuration. In this case the second position 2024 is located at a greater horizontal distance from the riser 2006 than the first position 2022, though this is not required. The second configuration also provides a vertical distance 2025 between the display mount 2002 and the keyboard tray 2004 that is less than the vertical distance 2027 provided by the first configuration. In this case configuring the apparatus 2000 in the second configuration includes moving the display mount 2002 and the display 2010 from the first position 2022 to the second position 2024, which enables an operator to view the display 2010 in a generally declining orientation.
The riser 2006 generally provides height adjustment, and can include any suitable mechanism for simultaneously raising and lowering the display mount 2002 and the keyboard tray 2004. In the examples illustrated in the figures, the riser includes a support column and a bracket, though other forms of risers can also be used. As shown in
Mounting the positioning apparatus 2000 on or to an existing stationary support member (e.g., a work surface) can thus provide a multi-position workstation for one or multiple operators. In many cases the apparatus 2000 also includes a base or an attachment member (not shown) coupled to the riser 2006 for supporting and/or attaching the riser 2006 to a support member. The positioning apparatus 2000 can be advantageously adapted to be supported by or attached to a wide variety of support members. For example, in some cases the support member is a floor, wall, or an existing work surface such as a desk, table, tray, counter, or another type of furniture. As used herein, the term “work surface” is used to refer to both the outermost top surface of such articles, as well as the top planar member (e.g., table top or desk top) having a thickness and one or more edges. In some embodiments the support member may be part of a cubicle or other office furniture. In general, the support member has a generally planar, horizontal surface and one or more edges. The support member provides a platform for mounting the positioning apparatus 2000, and in some cases may be referred to as a mounting platform. Examples of support members, bases, and attachment members are described in more detail with respect to, e.g.,
In some cases the support member is horizontal and substantially parallel to a floor. In certain embodiments, however, the positioning apparatus 2000 may be adapted to be attached to a slightly inclined support member (e.g., an inclined desktop). The positioning apparatus 2000 provides a range of travel for simultaneously moving various items, including computer monitors and keyboards, relative to the support member. Accordingly, the positioning apparatus 2000 can allow an operator to adjust the height of equipment relative to the support member and the operator. Supporting and/or mounting the positioning apparatus 2000 to such a support member can thus convert or transform a normally single-position (e.g., stationary or fixed-height) workstation into a multi-position workstation.
One example of a contemplated use for the positioning apparatus 2000 includes transforming a traditional, stationary computer workstation into a multi-position (e.g., multi-height) computer workstation. In many traditional settings, computer workstations generally include a monitor and keyboard simply resting on an existing work surface such as a desk or table. While the positions of the monitor and the keyboard in such settings may sometimes be adjusted by small amounts relative to the work surface, computer operators are generally limited to a single working position by the height of the existing work surface. For example, a traditional desk may only accommodate sitting positions. According to some embodiments of the invention, the positioning apparatus 2000 can transform such a traditional, fixed height computer workstation into a multi-position (e.g., multi-height) computer workstation, allowing an operator to adjust the height of the workstation to accommodate multiple working positions, including a sitting position and a standing position.
The riser 2006 can be dimensioned to provide the positioning apparatus with a vertical range of travel 2034 of any desired length, thus allowing the bracket 2030 and the attached equipment to be moved through a wide range of heights. As will be appreciated, in cases where the support column 2030 is positioned at an angle with respect to a vertical orientation, the apparatus may also provide an amount of horizontal movement as the bracket 2030 moves through the vertical range of travel 2034.
In a preferred embodiment, the vertical range of travel 2034 extends between a sitting height and a standing height, thus allowing an operator to use the positioning apparatus from both a sitting position and a standing position. For example, in certain cases the vertical range of travel 2034 provides at least about 14 inches of vertical adjustment (e.g., the display/keyboard can be moved at least about 14 inches). In some cases the vertical range of travel provides between about 14 inches and about 24 inches of vertical adjustment. More than 24 inches of vertical adjustment may also be provided. In some applications, however, the vertical range of travel may provide less than 14 inches of travel. For example, in some cases the vertical range of travel may be as small as 5 inches. The riser 2006 may also provide multiple positions at intermediate heights (e.g., at an infinite number of heights) between the lowest and highest extents of the range of travel 2034, thus accommodating other working positions and/or operators of different heights. In some cases a discrete number of intermediate positions are provided. In some cases the riser 2006 provides an infinite number of intermediate positions within the vertical range of travel 2034.
Although not shown in
In certain cases, the lift mechanism includes a balance mechanism incorporating an energy storage member that can counterbalance some or all of the weight of an electronic display and/or other equipment supported by the bracket 2030. As just one example, a lift mechanism can incorporate a cam (e.g., a rotary cam) that is coupled to the energy storage member and the bracket with one or more tension members (e.g., a line, cable, rope, chain, etc.).
One example of a lift/balance mechanism 116 that can be adapted for use with embodiments of the present invention is described with respect to
While a few examples of possible configurations for a lift/balance mechanism are described herein, it should be appreciated that a wide variety of lift mechanisms and/or balanced lift mechanisms can be used and that the scope of the invention is not limited to a particular lift configuration. For example, in some cases a lift mechanism includes a telescoping configuration (e.g., see
Returning to
Continuing with FTG. 27, the keyboard tray 2004 is coupled to the riser bracket 2030 below the display mount 2002. The keyboard tray 2004 is a structural component adapted support a keyboard (not shown), and can thus take many forms. In the illustrated embodiment, the keyboard tray 2004 is a flat work surface (e.g., a desk top or table) that extends out from the riser to position the keyboard in front and below the display 2010. In some cases the keyboard tray may instead be especially configured for supporting a keyboard rather than being a multipurpose work surface. As will be discussed further herein, a keyboard tray is not required in all embodiments. For example, a positioning apparatus may simply support an electronic display, such as a touch-sensitive tablet computer. Returning to
As shown in
The positioning apparatus 2000 also includes the movement mechanism 2020, which couples the display mount 2002 to the riser 2006. In this embodiment of the invention, the movement mechanism 2020 includes a curved rail 2050 and a bracket (e.g., integral with or attached to the optional tilt bracket 2040) that slides over the curved rail 2050 to adjust the position of the display mount 2002 and display 2010. A fastener or other brake mechanism can be used to secure the bracket and display mount at a desired position along the rail 2050. In some cases the curved rail 2050 is attached at one end to the riser bracket 2030, extends down and away from the riser 2006, and is attached at the opposite end to the keyboard tray 2004. Other mounting configurations are possible. The rail 2050 and bracket can be manufactured from any suitable material, such as metals, metal alloys, plastics, and/or composite materials.
The movement mechanism 2020 thus provides a path of travel that guides movement of the display mount 2002 and display 2010 between the first display position 2022 and the second display position 2024. The curve of the rail 2050 also tilts the display mount and the display backward as the display is moved from the first position to the second position. Accordingly, the movement mechanism 2020 provides a useful mechanism for adjusting the tilt and viewing angle of the display 2010 between the first position in the generally horizontal viewing configuration and the second position in the generally declining viewing configuration.
The inventors have found that providing a generally declining viewing configuration is especially useful for an operator wearing bifocal lenses (i.e., lenses having two or more portions with different optical powers). For example, an operator may need to view the display through a high optical power lens because his ability to focus on the display is impaired due to the short distance between the display and the operator's eyes. In a traditional configuration in which the display 2010 is in a generally horizontal viewing position (e.g., the first position 2022), the operator may thus find it necessary to crane his head and neck upward in order to see through the higher power lens, which is typically in the bottom of bifocal lenses. Moving the display mount 2002 and the display 2010 into the second position 2024 (sometimes referred to herein as the “bifocal” position/orientation) locates the display 2010, tilted back and up, in a forward, lower position closer to the keyboard tray 2004. Thus, the operator can view the display 2010 through the higher power lens potion of a bifocal lens while keeping the operator's head relatively level and neck straight.
Accordingly, moving the display 2010 into the second position 2024 with the display tilted back and upward toward the operator provides a superior ergonomic viewing configuration that has the potential to relieve neck strain and other discomfort for operators wearing bifocal lenses. In some cases the optional tilt mechanism 2040 can provide an additional measure of tilt adjustment at any given position along the rail 2050. Further, the positioning apparatus 2000 can maintain the display mount 2002 and the attached display 2010 close to the keyboard tray 2004 in the second viewing configuration at different heights of the positioning apparatus, e.g., for sitting and standing postures. The adjustability of the movement mechanism 2020 allows the display to also be adjusted to the first position 2022 in the generally horizontal viewing orientation which can be useful for operators without bifocal lenses.
As illustrated in
The location of the second display position relative to the location of the first display position may vary depending upon the dimensions of the positioning apparatus and/or the distance of the display from the operator. In certain cases the movement mechanism provides the second display position at a greater horizontal distance from the riser than the first position and at a different vertical location relative to the keyboard than the first position. Referring to
The second/bifocal position 2024 for the display 2010 generally enables the display 2010 to tilt back from a vertical orientation to a greater degree than is available in the first position 2022. In other words, the movement mechanism 2020 and the display mount 2002 provide the display in the first position with a maximum backward tilt to provide the generally horizontal viewing configuration and the display in the second position with a maximum backward tilt to provide the generally declining viewing configuration, and the maximum backward tilt in the second position is greater than the maximum backward tilt in the first position.
In some cases the spacing between the display and the riser 2006 and/or the keyboard tray 2004 can obstruct, prevent, or limit tilting of the display, thus limiting the range of available tilt angles, though this may not always be the case. Referring to
The pivoting arm 2164 pushes the display mount 2102 from the first position 2122 forward, away from the riser, and downward to the second position 2124, in close proximity with the keyboard tray 2104. According to certain embodiments, the pivoting arm 2164 does not include a counter balance mechanism and relies on a brake or lock for holding the display mount and display in the first or second viewing positions 2122, 2124. In certain embodiments, the range of tilt angles and orientations of the display 2110 available in each of the first and second positions are similar to those described above with respect to
One example of a contemplated use for the positioning apparatus 2100B includes transforming a traditional, stationary computer workstation into a multi-position (e.g., multi-height) computer workstation. As the use of tablet style computers increases, the positioning apparatus 2100B can be used to implement a multi-height workstation (such as a sit-to-stand workstation) that allows for viewing a tablet computer or another touch-sensitive screen from multiple angles without the need for a keyboard tray or other unnecessary structural components. Accordingly, workstations using an apparatus such as the positioning apparatus 2100B can be set up in areas with a limited amount of space. Further, while other types of equipment, such as multi-segment and multi joint positioning arms, may provide several degrees of manipulation (e.g., tilt, height adjustment, etc.), the physical structure of such arms require a large amount of space or clearance in order to provide the desired adjustments. In contrast, the inventors have designed an apparatus 2100B that provides a wide range of viewing angles (such as the generally-horizontal viewing orientation and the generally-declining viewing orientation described above) while occupying a small footprint by using the support column 2132 to provide height adjustment.
The movement mechanism 2220 includes a mount portion 2250 attached to the riser bracket 2230. An arm 2252 is rotatably coupled to the mount portion 2250 at one end and rotatably coupled to the display mount 2202 at the other end. In some cases an optional tilt mechanism 2240 can provide an additional measure of tilt adjustment at any given position. As an operator moves the display 2210 between the first and the second positions 2222, 2224, the arm 2252 rotates with respect to the mount portion 2250 about a first rotation axis 2254. The display mount 2202 and the display 2210 sweep through a circular path toward the second position 2224, in close proximity with the keyboard tray 2204. The arm 2252 rotates about 180 degrees between the first position and the second position. In some cases the display mount 2202 and the display also rotate with respect to the arm 2252 about a second rotation axis 2256 as the arm is rotated, thus allowing the display to remain in an upright viewing direction. In some embodiments the range of tilt angles and orientations of the display 2210 available in each of the first and second positions are similar to those described above with respect to
The positioning apparatus 2200B in
As described above with reference to
Although not required, in some cases additional relative movement between the display mount 2302 and the keyboard tray 2304 can ensure that the keyboard is positioned relatively closely to the display in the generally declining viewing configuration. For example, in certain embodiments the apparatus may include a separate keyboard riser (not shown) that couples the keyboard tray 2304 to the riser 2306. Thus, as the movement mechanism 2320 moves the display mount 2302 out and up to position the display 2310 in the second position, the keyboard riser can also be adjusted to move the keyboard tray 2304 up toward the display mount 2302 to provide the second viewing configuration. In some embodiments the keyboard riser may provide about 5 inches of vertical adjustment, though other amounts are also contemplated.
In some embodiments the movement mechanism 2320 may alternatively or additionally include an additional riser (not shown). For example, a display riser positioned between the display mount 2302 and the arm 2352 can allow the display mount 2302 and the display 2310 to be moved closer to the keyboard tray 2304 in the second, generally declining viewing configuration. In certain embodiments a display riser (not shown) may alternatively or additionally be provided between the riser bracket 2330 and the mounting bracket 2350. Such a separate display riser can allow the display mount 2302 and the display 2310 (along with the pivot mechanism 2354) to be moved downward, closer to the keyboard tray 2304 while in the second position 2324 to provide the second viewing configuration.
As shown in
In certain embodiments a supporting mechanism may support the display mount 2302 and the attached display 2310 in the second position 2324 in addition to or instead of a counterbalanced tilt mechanism.
As described above with reference to
In this embodiment, the arm 2452 provides the display mount 2402 and the display 2410 with independent sliding adjustment. For example, the arm 2452 may be an independent riser and/or lift mechanism (e.g., providing 5 inches or any other suitable amount of adjustment) adapted to slide the display 2410 along the length of the arm 2452. The sliding adjustment is useful for moving the display mount 2402 down the length of the arm 2452 as the arm is rotated from the first position 2422 to the second position 2424. The translation of the display mount along the length of the arm prevents the top portion of the display 2410 from hitting the riser 2406 as the display is tilted back and up. Thus, the display mount and display can be positioned closely adjacent to the riser 2406, providing the positioning apparatus with a smaller profile in the first configuration. In addition, the independent riser also provides relative movement between the display mount 2402 and the keyboard tray 2404 to ensure that the keyboard is positioned relatively closely to the display in the generally declining viewing configuration.
In certain cases the pivot mechanism 2450 is preferably counterbalanced, although this is not required. For example, the pivot mechanism 2450 may include any of the counterbalancing mechanisms described above with respect to
In certain embodiments the pivoting arm 2550 is a two-bar arm or a four-bar arm that tilts the display mount 2502 and the attached display 2510 as the arm is moved. US Patent Application Publication US 2007/0259554, filed May 4, 2007, the entire disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, provides examples of possible arms that may be useful in embodiments of the invention. As the arm 2550 lowers into the second position, the arm 2550 tilts the display mount and display back and up, such that the display 2510 continues to be oriented toward an operator viewing the display. As the arm 2550 raises into the first position, the arm 2550 tilts the display mount and display forward and down, such that the display 2510 assumes a more vertical orientation. In certain embodiments, the range of tilt angles and orientations of the display 2510 available in each of the first and second positions are similar to those described above with respect to
The positioning apparatus 2500 also includes a keyboard tray coupled to the riser bracket 2530 below the display mount 2502. As shown in
In addition, the keyboard tray 2504 illustrated in
Although not required, in some cases additional relative movement between the display mount 2602 and the keyboard tray 2604 can ensure that the keyboard is positioned relatively closely to the display in the generally declining viewing configuration. For example, in certain embodiments the apparatus 2600A may include a separate keyboard riser (not shown) coupling the keyboard tray 2604 to the riser 2606. Thus, as the movement mechanism 2620 tilts the display mount 2602 back and up to position the display 2610 in the second position 2624, the keyboard riser can also be adjusted to move the keyboard tray 2604 up toward the display mount 2602 to provide the second viewing configuration. In some embodiments the keyboard riser may provide about 5 inches of vertical adjustment, though other amounts are also contemplated.
The positioning apparatus 2600A provides a vertical range of travel 2634 similar to previously described embodiments of the invention. However, in this embodiment the riser bracket 2630 is mounted to the support member 2601 and the support column 2632 supports the display 2610 and keyboard 2670 through the vertical range of travel 2634 relative to the support member 2601. The positioning apparatus includes an attachment member 2603 that attaches the riser bracket 2630 to the support member 2601. In some cases the attachment member 2603 may removably fasten the bracket to the support member (e.g., a clamp), while in other embodiments, a more permanent or fixed fastener is used (e.g., bolts, screws, adhesive, etc.).
While several embodiments of the invention are described herein as including a riser that is attached to and/or supported by a support member by a riser bracket or a support column, it is contemplated that any particular embodiment can take either configuration. Thus, the positioning apparatuses described with respect to
The telescoping riser 2806 generally includes a first member that is slidingly received within a second member. As illustrated, the telescoping riser 2806 includes a support column 2832 and a bracket 2830 configured to receive the support column 2832 in a sliding engagement. The telescoping riser 2806 can be attached to or rested upon a support member via an attachment member (e.g., see
In some cases rollers, slides, and optionally a lift mechanism (e.g., any of those discussed herein) are provided to movably couple the support column 2832 and the bracket 2830. In this embodiment the bracket 2830 is configured to support the display and keyboard tray. In some embodiments the orientation of the riser 2806 may be rotated 180 degrees with the bracket 2830 supported by to the support member and the support column 2632 moving relative to the support member.
Embodiments of the invention also provide methods for positioning an electronic display and/or keyboard. According to one embodiment a method for positioning an electronic display is provided. The method includes supporting an electronic display with a positioning apparatus, such as any of the positioning apparatus described above. Supporting the electronic display includes supporting the electronic display with a display mount from such an apparatus. The method also includes simultaneously moving the electronic display and the movement mechanism between a sitting position and a standing position relative to the support member and adjusting the display mount between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a method for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard includes providing a positioning apparatus with a riser having a bracket and a support column movably coupled together, a display mount coupled to the riser, a keyboard tray coupled to the riser, and a movement mechanism coupled between the riser and the display mount. The method also includes supporting the positioning apparatus with the riser in a generally vertical orientation, supporting the electronic display with the display mount, and supporting the keyboard with the keyboard tray. Further steps in the method include moving one of the support column and the bracket to simultaneously adjust the height of the display mount, display, keyboard tray, keyboard, and movement mechanism between a sitting position and a standing position, and at each of the sitting position and the standing position, configuring the display mount and the keyboard tray in a first configuration providing a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a second configuration providing a generally declining viewing configuration. In certain embodiments the vertical distance between the display mount and the keyboard tray is less in the second configuration than in the first configuration. In addition, the movement mechanism provides the display mount with a first position relative to the riser in the first configuration and a second position relative to the riser in the second configuration. In the second position the display mount and the display can tilt back from a vertical orientation to a greater degree than in the first position.
Another embodiment of the invention includes a method for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard. The method includes providing a positioning apparatus, such as one of those described herein. Additional steps include supporting the electronic display with the display mount and supporting the keyboard with the keyboard tray. The method also includes simultaneously moving the electronic display, the keyboard, and the movement mechanism between a sitting position and a standing position relative to the support member. The method also includes adjusting the display mount and the keyboard tray between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration the display mount and the display are positioned in a generally horizontal viewing orientation. In the second configuration the display mount and the display are positioned in a generally declining viewing configuration. In some cases the first configuration allows the electronic display to tilt back from a vertical orientation to a lesser degree than the second configuration.
An example of a positioning apparatus incorporating a lift/balance mechanism, an attachment member, and several other features will now be discussed with respect to
The positioning apparatus 1000 is advantageously adapted to sit on a wide variety of existing work surfaces such as the top surfaces of desks, tables, trays, counters, and the like. One example of a contemplated use includes transforming a traditional, stationary computer workstation into a multi-position (e.g., multi-height) computer workstation.
The base 1002 of the positioning apparatus 1000 is adapted to sit on a horizontal or generally horizontal work surface. In some cases the base 1002 may also be adapted to sit on a somewhat angled or inclined work surface. In the illustrated example, the base 1002 includes a clamp 1020 for removably attaching the positioning apparatus 1000 about an edge of a work surface. The base may also or instead be fixedly attached to the work surface with a more permanent type of fastener such as an adhesive and/or a screw/bolt and mounting hole. It is also contemplated that the base and positioning apparatus may in some cases be adapted to simply sit/rest upon the work surface without being attached to the work surface.
The mounting portion 1006 illustrated in
The display mount 1010 is attached to the mounting portion 1006 in an adjustable manner. The mounting portion 1006 includes a secondary lift mechanism 1022 to which the display mount is attached. The secondary lift mechanism 1022 provides an adjustable range of travel that allows the display mount 1010 (and an attached electronic display) to be moved vertically relative to the keyboard tray 1012, which can be useful for providing monitor/keyboard arrangements for differently sized operators. The display mount 1010 attachment may also include a tilt and/or rotation mechanism that allows an attached display to be tilted and/or rotated in a variety of directions.
The base 1002 of the positioning apparatus 1000 can encompass any structure that adequately supports the support column 1004 and the mounting portion 1006 upon a work surface. According to some embodiments, the base 1002 includes one or more stabilizing portions or legs 1030. As shown in
In some cases the elongated section 1032 of the base is generally parallel to a plane defined by movement of the mounting portion 1006 through the vertical range of travel (e.g., the plane of cross-section in
The support column 1004 includes a separate component that is attached to the base 1002 using, e.g., mounting brackets or other hardware. The support column 1004 can be formed integrally with the base 1002. The support column and the base 1002 are attached/formed together at an angle other than 90 degrees (in some cases 90 degrees or less). For example, as shown in
The support column 1004 can be dimensioned to provide the positioning apparatus with a vertical range of travel 1008 of any desired length, thus allowing the mounting portion 1006 to be moved through a wide range of heights. As will be appreciated, in cases where the support column 1004 is positioned at an angle with respect to the base, the apparatus may also provide an amount of horizontal movement as the mounting portion moves through the vertical range of travel 1008. In one example, the vertical range of travel extends between a sitting height and a standing height, thus allowing an operator to use the workstation from both a sitting position and a standing position. For example, in certain embodiments the vertical range of travel is at least about 14 inches. In some cases the vertical range of travel is between about 14 inches and about 24 inches. The lift mechanism 1009 in the positioning apparatus may also provide multiple positions at intermediate heights between the lowest and highest extents of the range of travel 1008, thus accommodating other working positions and/or operators of different heights. In some cases a discrete number of intermediate positions are provided. In some cases the lift mechanism 1009 provides an infinite number of intermediate positions within the vertical range of travel 1008.
Turning to
The keyboard tray 1012 is attached to the mounting portion 1006 with a tilt mechanism 1202 that allows an operator to adjust the tilt of the keyboard tray 1012 relative to the base and the work surface. For example, in some cases the tilt mechanism 1202 allows the keyboard to be oriented at an angle ranging from about −15 degrees to about +15 degrees with respect to the work surface. The mounting portion 1006 also or alternatively includes a folding mechanism that allows the keyboard tray 1012 to be folded closer to the base 1002. The folding mechanism can thus allow an operator to reduce the overall size of the positioning apparatus by folding the keyboard tray away when not in use. In some embodiments the tilt mechanism includes a hinge with a generally horizontal axis. Such a hinge may be provided with a friction mechanism.
The lift mechanism 1009 that movably couples the mounting portion 1006 to the support column 1004 includes one or more rails 1210 attached to the support column 1004 and a truck 1212 (e.g., movable bracket) having wheels or sliders that engage the rails.
The lift mechanism 1009 can also provide an operator with a degree of assistance to move the mounting portion 1006 through the range of travel 1008. For example, in some embodiments an energy storage member 1214 such as an extension spring provides a biasing force that aids an operator in adjusting the height of the mounting portion 1006. In some cases an extension spring member is adjustably mounted within the support column 1004 using a retainer plug 1230 and a weight adjustment screw 1232 which can be turned to tighten and loosen the spring. The lift mechanism 1009 may provide a discrete number of height positions along the vertical range of travel, or in some cases may provide an infinite number of height positions along a continuous vertical range of adjustability.
In this case the lift mechanism 1009 includes a balance mechanism 1220 incorporating the energy storage member 1214 that can counterbalance some or all of the weight of an electronic display and/or other equipment supported by the mounting portion 1006. As just one example, the lift mechanism 1009 can incorporate a cam (e.g., a rotary cam) 1222 that is coupled to the energy storage member 1214 and the truck 1212 with one or more tension members (e.g., a line, cable, rope, chain, etc., not shown). One example of such a balance mechanism is described in presently co-owned US Patent Application Publication US 2006/0185563 A1, which application was filed Sep. 28, 2005, the entire contents of which is incorporated by reference herein. The lift mechanism 1009 includes a balance mechanism having a dual cam as described below with reference to
While a few examples of possible configurations for a lift mechanism are described herein, it should be appreciated that a wide variety of lift mechanisms can be used to movably couple the mounting portion 1006 with the support column 1004 to provide the vertical range of travel 1008 and that the scope of the invention is not limited to a particular lift configuration. For example, in some cases a lift mechanism has a telescoping configuration. In some cases the lift mechanism includes a rotary cam coupled with an energy storage member such as an extension spring, a compression spring, a torsion spring, or a spiral spring. In some cases the lift mechanism includes a constant force spring and/or a gas spring. The lift mechanism may also be provided as described in one or more of presently co-owned US Patent Application Publication US 2008/0026892 A1, filed Jul. 26, 2007; US Patent Application Publication US 2007/0259554 A1, filed May 4, 2007; U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,422, filed Aug. 20, 2003; U.S. Pat. No. 7,506,853, filed Nov. 3, 2004; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,994,306, filed Nov. 28, 2000. The entire disclosure of each of the above-mentioned patents and patent applications is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
The display mount 1010 is attached to the mounting portion 1006 in one or more other adjustable manners. The display mount 1010 attachment includes a tilt mechanism 1310 and rotation mechanism 1312 that allows an attached display to be tilted and/or rotated in a variety of directions with respect to the positioning apparatus. The tilt mechanism may include a counterbalanced spring system (e.g., a torsion spring mechanism), a gravity tilt mechanism, a friction tilt mechanism, or a ball and socket mechanism, among other possibilities. U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,422, filed Aug. 20, 2003; U.S. Pat. No. 7,252,277, filed Jan. 17, 2004; and US Patent Application Publication US 2006/0185563 A1, filed Sep. 28, 2005, provide examples of possible tilt and rotation mechanisms, the entire disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
As discussed with reference to
An adjustable screw 1440 is threadedly coupled to the upper portions of the first and the second clamping elements. Turning the screw 1440 loosens and tightens the clamp 1400 by pulling and pushing the upper portions of the clamping elements together and apart. A threaded insert 1442 is rotatably coupled to the upper portion of each clamping element through a slip fit hole 1444. The insert 1442 includes a threaded hole 1446, oriented perpendicular to the slip fit hole, that receives an end of the screw 1440. In some cases an adjustment nut 1450 is attached (e.g., welded or machined) to the screw 1440 to facilitate rotation of the screw 1440. Turning the nut 1450 and the screw 1440 in a first direction moves the upper portions 1412, 1414 of the clamping elements apart to decrease the space between the upper and lower portions of the clamping elements 1402, 1404 and thus tighten the clamp 1400 about the edge of the work surface 1430. Turning the nut 1450 and the screw 1440 in an opposite, second direction moves the upper portions 1412, 1414 of the clamping elements together to increase the space between the upper and lower portions of the clamping elements 1402, 1404 and thus loosen the clamp 1400 about the edge of the work surface 1430. Fixed bracket 1432 can be placed on top of a work surface and the bracket is formed as part of the base 1032.
An adjustable screw 1540 is threadedly coupled to the lower portions of the first and the second clamping elements. Turning the screw 1540 loosens and tightens the clamp 1500 by pulling and pushing the lower portions of the clamping elements together and apart. A threaded insert 1542 is rotatably coupled to the lower portion of each clamping element. The insert 1542 includes a threaded hole 1546, oriented perpendicular to the lower portion, that receives an end of the screw 1540. In some cases an adjustment nut 1550 is attached (e.g., welded or machined) to the screw 1540 to facilitate rotation of the screw 1540. In addition, in some cases an extrusion 1560 is slidingly mounted to the threaded inserts 1542 and provides a flat surface above the adjustable screw for engaging the bottom of the work surface. For example, each threaded insert 1542 may have a “T” shaped extension 1562 that fits within a slot 1564 of the extrusion 1560. Turning the nut 1450 and the screw 1540 in a first direction moves the lower portions 1522, 1524 of the clamping elements apart to decrease the space between the upper and lower portions of the clamping elements 1502, 1504 and thus tighten the extrusion 1560 against the bottom of the work surface 1530. Turning the nut 1550 and the screw 1540 in an opposite, second direction moves the lower portions 1522, 1524 of the clamping elements together to increase the space between the upper and lower portions of the clamping elements 1502, 1504 and thus loosen the clamp 1500 about the edge of the work surface 1530. In some cases bracket 1532 can be formed as an integral part of the base 1032.
In addition to providing a relatively low profile above the work surface 1530, the screw clamp 1500 shown in
In certain embodiments, the lower bracket 1604 can be coupled with the upper bracket 1602 in more than one configuration in order to accommodate work surfaces with a greater range of thicknesses. Referring to
Turning to
Referring to
As shown in
The mounting portion 350 can itself provide some degree of adjustability between attached components. For example, as shown in
In the example shown in
As discussed above, a positioning apparatus can include a base encompassing any structure that adequately supports the support column and the mounting portion upon a work surface. With continuing reference to
Referring to
Positioning methods also include moving the electronic display 302 simultaneously with the keyboard (e.g., on the keyboard tray 355). In addition, one exemplary method also includes moving the electronic display 302 with respect to the keyboard. An operator may also adjust an angle of the keyboard and/or the electronic display relative to the work surface 316 by, e.g., manipulating an articulating mount such as a tilt and/or rotation mechanism. Another positioning method includes attaching the positioning apparatus about one of a front edge, a back edge, and a side edge of the work surface 316.
As will be appreciated, sit-stand positioning apparatuses may be subjected to more frequent adjustment (e.g., several times in a work day) than more traditional, stationary monitor mounts. In some cases a lift mechanism is used that can increase the cycle life of the apparatus as it encounters increased articulation. Referring now to
Portions of a balance mechanism 116 can also be seen in
The balance mechanism 116 provides a balancing force between the first and second portions of the support column and the movable portion 150, such that an operator can position equipment attached to the movable portion at any desired height along the range of travel having only to overcome the friction of the system. Further, because of the balancing force provided by the balance mechanism, the movable portion will hold its set position without the operator having to engage any locks.
In the example shown in
In some cases each of the first and second cams 124, 126 are coupled to one of the cam pulleys 164, 168 with an independent, separate flexible element, while energy storage member pulley 160 is coupled to the energy storage member 144 via a separate flexible element. Referring to
In one case the wheel pulley 120 is coupled to the movable portion 150 of the support with another flexible element 135 such that wheel pulley 120 rotates with respect to the base 102 as the movable portion 150 moves with respect to the support. As shown in
In use, when an operator desires to change the position of a monitor or other device supported by the apparatus 300, the operator can apply a force to the monitor and/or notebook. Movement of the monitor causes the mounting portion 350 of the support, to which it is attached, to also move relative to the support column 312 of the apparatus.
Thus, embodiments of the invention are disclosed. Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain disclosed embodiments, the disclosed embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation and other embodiments of the invention are possible. One skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes, adaptations, and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims
1. An apparatus for positioning an electronic display relative to a first work surface, the apparatus comprising:
- a riser comprising a support column and a riser bracket movably coupled together and a first lift mechanism coupled between the support column and the riser bracket, wherein the support column is movable relative to the riser bracket to provide the height adjustment;
- an attachment member that fixedly attaches the riser bracket to the first work surface;
- a second work surface configured to attach to the support column, wherein relative movement between the riser bracket and the support column adjusts the height of the second work surface; and
- a display mount coupled to the support column and adapted to support the electronic display; and
- a movement mechanism coupling the display mount to the support column;
- wherein relative movement between the riser bracket and the support column provides simultaneous height adjustment of the movement mechanism, the second work surface and the display mount;
- wherein, at each height provided by the riser, the display mount is configurable in a first configuration providing a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a second configuration providing a generally declining viewing configuration;
- wherein the movement mechanism provides the display mount with a first position relative to the riser, wherein the movement mechanism and the display mount provide a supported electronic display in the first position with a maximum backward tilt to provide the generally horizontal viewing configuration; and
- wherein the movement mechanism provides the display mount with a second position relative to the riser, wherein the movement mechanism and the display mount provide a supported electronic display in the second position with a maximum backward tilt to provide the generally declining viewing configuration, wherein the supported electronic display is closer to the second work surface in the second position.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the maximum backward tilt in the first position is about 20 degrees.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the display mount is a greater distance from the riser in the second position than in the first position.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the display mount is substantially the same distance from the riser in the second position and the first position.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the display mount is adapted to support a touchsensitive electronic display of a tablet computer.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the riser comprises a bottom end and a top end and wherein the movement mechanism comprises a pivot attached to the riser proximate the top end of the riser.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the movement mechanism further comprises a display lift mechanism coupled between the pivot and the display mount.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second position is lower relative to the riser than the first position.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second position is higher relative to the riser than the first position.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the riser simultaneously adjusts the height of the movement mechanism and the display mount between a sitting height and a standing height.
11. An apparatus for positioning an electronic display relative to a first work surface, the apparatus comprising:
- a riser comprising a support column and a riser bracket movably coupled together and a first lift mechanism coupled between the support column and the riser bracket, wherein the support column is movable relative to the riser bracket to provide the height adjustment;
- an attachment member that fixedly attaches the riser bracket to the first work surface;
- a second work surface configured to attach to the support column, wherein relative movement between the riser bracket and the support column adjusts the height of the second work surface;
- a display mount coupled to the support column and adapted to support the electronic display; and
- a movement mechanism coupling the display mount to the support column, the movement mechanism comprising a curved rail and a bracket;
- wherein relative movement between the riser bracket and the support column provide simultaneous height adjustment of the movement mechanism, the display mount, the second work surface;
- wherein at each height provided by the riser, the movement mechanism provides the display mount with a first position relative to the riser in a first configuration,
- wherein the movement mechanism and the display mount provide a supported electronic display in the first position with a maximum backward tilt to provide a generally horizontal viewing configuration;
- wherein at each height provided by the riser, the movement mechanism provides the display mount with a second position relative to the riser in a second configuration, and
- wherein the movement mechanism and the display mount provide a supported electronic display in the second position with a maximum backward tilt to provide a generally declining viewing configuration, the maximum backward tilt in the second position being greater than the maximum backward tilt in the first position, wherein the supported electronic display is closer to the second work surface in the second position.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the movement mechanism guides the display mount toward the second work surface from the first position to the second position.
13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the maximum backward tilt in the second position is at least thirty degrees.
14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the maximum backward tilt in the first position is less than about twenty degrees.
15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the movement mechanism tilts the display mount as the display mount is moved between the first position and the second position.
16. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the movement mechanism includes a pivoting arm.
17. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the curved rail attached to the riser and the bracket of the movement mechanism is coupled between the curved rail and the display mount, the curved rail extending down and away from the riser.
18. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the bracket of the movement mechanism is a mounting bracket coupled to the riser, the movement mechanism further comprising a pivot located at an end of the mounting bracket, and an arm coupled between the pivot and the display mount, wherein the pivot is positioned higher than the display mount in the first position and in the second position.
19. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first lift mechanism comprises a balance mechanism comprising a cam and an energy storage member.
20. An apparatus for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard relative to a first work surface, the apparatus comprising:
- a riser comprising a support column and a riser bracket movably coupled together and a first lift mechanism coupled between the support column and the riser bracket, wherein the support column is movable relative to the riser bracket to provide the height adjustment;
- an attachment member that fixedly attaches the riser bracket to the first work surface;
- a second work surface configured to attach to the riser bracket, wherein the second work surface is a keyboard tray adapted to support a keyboard, and wherein relative movement between the riser bracket and the support column adjusts the height of the second work surface;
- a display mount coupled to the support column and adapted to support the electronic display; and
- a movement mechanism coupling the display mount to the support column, wherein the movement mechanism comprises a pivot attached to the riser proximate the top end of the riser;
- wherein the riser provides simultaneous height adjustment of the movement mechanism, the display mount, and the keyboard tray between a sitting height and a standing height;
- wherein, at each of at least two heights provided by the riser, the display mount and the keyboard tray are configurable in a first configuration providing a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a second configuration providing a generally declining viewing configuration;
- wherein in the second configuration a vertical distance between the display mount and the keyboard tray is different than in the first configuration;
- wherein the movement mechanism provides the display mount with a first position relative to the riser in the first configuration and a second position relative to the riser in the second configuration, and
- wherein in the second position the display mount and the supported electronic display are able to tilt back from a vertical orientation to a greater degree than is available in the first position.
Type: Application
Filed: Nov 6, 2015
Publication Date: Mar 17, 2016
Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun (Plymouth, MN), Shaun Christopher Lindblad (Lino Lakes, MN), Saeb Salih Asamarai (Columbia Heights, MN), Kevin Paulsen (Eagan, MN)
Application Number: 14/935,066