US20100176254A1 - Lift mechanism systems and methods - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention includes a display positioning assembly comprising a support, a display supported by the support, and a balance mechanism carried by the display and operatively connected to the support. The invention also includes an article for selectively exposing a display comprising a generally planar support surface having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. A balance mechanism operatively connected to a display may be positionable between a storage position proximate the first side of the generally planar support surface and an exposed position proximate the second side of the generally planar support surface. The invention also includes an assembly for arresting the free fall of an object. The assembly may comprise an outer slide in sliding or rolling engagement with an inner slide, and a brake comprising at least one pivot member may be coupled to the inner slide.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS
• The present application is a continuation in part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/903,316, filed on Jul. 30, 2004.
• The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/613,993, filed on Sep. 28, 2004.
• The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/633,999, filed on Dec. 7, 2004.
• The entire disclosure of each of the above-mentioned patent applications is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for supporting a load or for supplying a pre-determined force either constant or variable in either a vertical or horizontal or other orientation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• In recent years, ergonomic concerns have taken on increased importance due to several factors. For example, workers are often able to be more productive when working in an ergonomically friendly environment. Moreover, when workers are forced to work in ergonomically unsuitable environments, they may be injured and/or may perform at a substandard level.
• Many jobs involve working 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. For instance, a child would have different physical space needs than an adult using the same computer and monitor.
• In many contexts, operators are using computers for longer periods of time, which increases the importance of comfort to the operator. An operator may choose to use the monitor as left by the previous user despite the discomfort, annoyance, and inconvenience resulting from using settings optimized for another individual. This type of situation may result in substandard job performance and even injury after prolonged use.
• In some situations, people must perform operations in various postures. For example, one may be required to perform some operations in a seated position and others in a standing position. In such situations, both the seated operations and the standing operations may require the same workstation. Such workstations may include a computer monitor, a keyboard, and/or a mouse.
• Moreover, as monitors grow in size and weight, ease of adjustability is an important consideration. For monitors requiring frequent adjustment, adjustability for monitors has been provided using an arm coupled with gas springs, where the arm is hingedly coupled with the desk or a vertical surface. However, the gas springs are costly and the gas may leak out over time. In addition, the gas springs require a significant amount of space, for instance arm length, which can be at a premium in certain applications, such as in hospitals.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• Embodiments of the invention may be implemented in various contexts to raise and lower a multitude of objects. Examples include raising and lowering video monitors and computing equipment of all sizes, furniture work surfaces, production assembly tools and lifts, work load transfer equipment, vertically oriented exercise equipment, robot control devices, and windows.
• Further, embodiments of the invention may be used to provide forces in orientations other than up and down (e.g., horizontal). Examples of such applications include, but are not limited to continuous constant force feeding systems for machine tools, horizontally oriented exercise equipment, drawer closing applications, and door closing applications.
• In some embodiments of the invention may support a display monitor (e.g., a flat panel display such as an liquid crystal display or plasma display) for a personal computer or television. Some situations may not be conducive to placing personal computers and/or display monitors directly on a desk or on a computer case. In some embodiments of the present invention, computer monitors may be mounted on elevating structures to increase desk space or to respond to the ergonomic needs of different operators. In some embodiments of the present invention, monitors may be mounted to a surface (e.g., a wall) instead of placing the monitor on a desk or a cart.
• Embodiments of the invention may provide one or more of the following advantages. For example, embodiments of the invention may provide high reliability at a relatively low cost. Some embodiments may be manufactured and/or maintained in a more cost-effective manner than applications using, for example, electrical motors, hydraulic motors, or gas springs as their power source. To illustrate, some embodiments of the present invention may use a coil spring, and a coil spring suitable for use in the present invention may cost, for example, on the order of eighteen cents. In contrast, a gas spring suitable for use in lifting mechanisms may cost about six dollars. By way of another example involving coil spring embodiments, a lift providing support for an 80 pound load through 20 inches of travel using only about four dollars worth of coil springs. In contrast, a prior art lifting technology, capable of supporting a 70 pound load across sixteen inches of travel, may require, for example, two gas springs costing twenty-two dollars each.
• In some embodiments, the invention includes a display positioning assembly comprising a support, a display supported by the support, and a balance mechanism carried by the display and operatively connected to the support. The balance mechanism may be useful for balancing forces between the support and the display to provide vertical adjustment of the display relative to the support. Embodiments of the invention also include methods of assembly and use of such an apparatus.
• In some embodiments, the invention includes an article for selectively exposing a display comprising a generally planar support surface having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. A balance mechanism operatively connected to a display may be positionable between a storage position proximate the first side of the generally planar support surface and an exposed position proximate the second side of the generally planar support surface. The balance mechanism balances forces between the support surface and the display to provide adjustment of the display relative to the support surface. In some embodiments, the balance mechanism has a fixed component functionally coupled to the generally planar support surface and a movable component functionally coupled to the display, and the fixed component and the movable component may be disposed in sliding or rolling engagement with one another. Embodiments of the invention also include methods of assembly and use of such an apparatus.
• In some embodiments, to provide additional safety, the invention includes an assembly for arresting the free fall of an object. The assembly may comprise an outer slide in sliding or rolling engagement with an inner slide, and a brake may be coupled to the inner slide The brake may comprise at least one pivot member and an energy storage member, the energy storage member normally held in expansion by a force, where upon removal of the force the energy storage member biases the pivot member outward to engage the outer slide to prevent the free fall of an object coupled to the inner slide. Embodiments of the invention also include methods of assembly and use of such an apparatus.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is an elevation view of an apparatus in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 2 is an additional elevation view of apparatus shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view of apparatus shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 4 is an additional perspective view of apparatus shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 5 is a plan view of an apparatus in accordance with an additional exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 6 is an elevation view of an apparatus in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 7 is an additional elevation view of apparatus shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 8 is an additional elevation view of apparatus shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 9 is an additional elevation view of apparatus shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 10 is a front view of an apparatus in accordance with an additional exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 11 is an additional front view of apparatus shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an apparatus in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the apparatus shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 14 is a side plan view of a display and stand in accordance with an additional exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a display and stand in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of a display and stand in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 16A is a cut away view of a lift device unit in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIGS. 17 A and B are side plan views of a display and stand in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIGS. 18 A and B are side plan views of a display and stand in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIGS. 19 A and B are side plan views of a display and stand in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 20 is a rear plan view of a display in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 21A is a side plan view of a display in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 21B is a side plan view of an assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 22 is a rear plan view of an assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an article with a generally planar support surface in accordance with an additional exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an article with a generally planar support surface in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an article with a generally planar support surface in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 26A is a perspective view of an article with a generally planar support surface in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 26B is a schematic side view of an article with a generally planar support surface in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 26C is a schematic bottom view of an article with a generally planar support surface in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 27 is a top view of slide assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the slide assembly ofFIG. 27.
• FIG. 29A-29C are cross-sectional views of a bullet type mechanism in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 30A is a side plan view of a slide assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 30B is sectional view of a slide assembly and a brake taken along section line AA ofFIG. 30A.
• FIG. 30C is an enlarged view of the area within circle B ofFIG. 30B.
• FIG. 31A is a side plan view of a slide assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 31B is sectional view of a slide assembly and an activated brake taken along section line AA ofFIG. 31A.
• FIG. 31C is an enlarged view of the area within circle B ofFIG. 31B.
• FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a cart in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a cart in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings, in which like elements in different drawings are numbered identically. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Examples of constructions, materials, dimensions, and manufacturing processes are provided for selected elements. All other elements employ that which is known to those of skill in the field of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many of the examples provided have suitable alternatives that can be utilized.
• FIG. 1 is an elevation view of anapparatus100 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Apparatus100 ofFIG. 1 comprises afirst slide102, asecond slide104 and abalance mechanism106.First slide102 comprises a firstinner rail108 and a firstouter rail120 that are disposed in sliding engagement with one another. In the embodiment ofFIG. 1,balance mechanism106 provides a balancing force between firstinner rail108 and firstouter rail120.
• Second slide104 ofapparatus100 comprises a secondinner rail122 and a secondouter rail124 that are disposed in sliding engagement with one another. In the embodiment ofFIG. 1,first slide102 andsecond slide104 are both disposed in a generally extended state. With reference toFIG. 1 it may be appreciated that,distal end126 of firstinner rail108 is separated fromdistal end127 of firstouter rail120 by a distance DA. Awheel134 ofbalance mechanism106 is pivotally supported by firstouter rail120 and secondouter rail124 withwheel134 being free to rotate about apivot axis136. In the embodiment ofFIG. 1,wheel134 is coupled to firstouter rail120 and secondouter rail124 by aflange138.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 1,wheel134 comprises apulley member140 and acam member142.Pulley member140 ofwheel134 is coupled to firstinner rail108 offirst slide102 by asecond cable144 and abracket146. In the embodiment ofFIG. 1,wheel134 may be urged to rotate in acounter-clockwise direction148 by movingdistal end126 of firstinner rail108 towarddistal end127 of firstouter rail120. In some embodiments of the present invention, however,wheel134 is biased to rotate in a clockwise direction by a spring. This bias provides a balancing force between firstinner rail108 and firstouter rail120
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 1,cam member142 ofwheel134 is coupled to aspring150 by afirst cable162 and abottom spring plate152. InFIG. 1first cable162 is shown contactingcam member142 at afirst intersection154. Afirst reference line156 is shown passing throughpivot axis136 ofwheel134 andfirst intersection154 inFIG. 1.
• FIG. 2 is an additional elevation view ofapparatus100 shown in the previous figure. In the embodiment ofFIG. 2,wheel134 andfirst reference line156 have been rotated in a counter-clockwise direction relative to the positions shown in the previous figure. With reference to the figures, it will be appreciated thatfirst reference line156 andwheel134 have been rotated in unison (i.e.,first reference line156 has been rotated by the same angle that wheel134 has been rotated).
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 2,apparatus100 has assumed a generally retracted state in whichdistal end126 of firstinner rail108 is located closer todistal end127 of first outer rail120 (relative to the state shown in the previous figure). InFIG. 2, the distance betweendistal end126 of first inner slide128 anddistal end127 of firstouter rail120 is labeled DB. With reference toFIG. 2, it will be appreciated that distance DB is smaller than the length of firstinner rail108. It will also be appreciated that distance DB is smaller than distance DA shown in the previous figure.
• InFIG. 2,first cable162 is shown contactingcam member142 at asecond intersection164. Asecond reference line166 is shown passing throughpivot axis136 ofwheel134 andsecond intersection164 inFIG. 2.Second reference line166 andfirst reference line156 define anangle168 inFIG. 2. In the embodiment ofFIG. 2,angle168 represents a rotational range of travel associated withwheel134. With reference to the figures, it will be appreciatedwheel134 has a first angular orientation corresponding to an expanded configuration ofapparatus100. It will also be appreciated thatwheel134 has a second angular orientation corresponding to a contracted configuration ofapparatus100.
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view ofapparatus100 shown in the previous figure.Apparatus100 comprises abalance mechanism106 that is capable of providing a balancing force between firstinner rail108 and firstouter rail120. In the embodiment ofFIG. 3, firstinner rail108 is disposed in a generally retracted position with respect to firstouter rail120.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 3,balance mechanism106 comprises awheel134 andspring150.Spring150 is disposed between abottom spring plate152 and atop spring plate153 inFIG. 3. In the embodiment ofFIG. 3,spring150 is capable of assuming a relaxed shape and a plurality of compressed shapes. For example,spring150 may assume a completely relaxed shape when no forces act onspring150 to hold it in compression. In the embodiment ofFIG. 3,spring150 is pictured having a somewhat compressed shape relative to its relaxed shape.
• Spring150 is coupled to acam member142 ofwheel134 by afirst cable162 so thatspring150 biases wheel134 to rotate in a clockwise direction. Apulley portion170 ofwheel134 is coupled to a firstinner rail108 of afirst slide102 by asecond cable144. A balancing force is applied between firstinner rail108 and firstouter rail120 bysecond cable144 andwheel134 ofbalance mechanism106. In some useful embodiments of the present invention,cam member142 is shaped and positioned so that a torque applied towheel134 byfirst cable162 is substantially constant while a force applied towheel134 byfirst cable162 varies. When this is the case,second cable144 preferably applies a substantially constant balancing force to firstinner rail108.
• FIG. 4 is an additional perspective view ofapparatus100 shown in the previous figure. InFIG. 4,spring150 is shown assuming a shape that is less compressed than the shape shown in the previous figure. In the embodiment ofFIG. 4, firstinner rail108 is disposed in a generally extended position with respect to firstouter rail120. Accordingly,apparatus100 is shown in a generally extended state in whichdistal end126 of firstinner rail108 is located farther fromdistal end127 of first outer rail120 (relative to the state shown in the previous figure).
• FIG. 5 is a plan view of anapparatus300 in accordance with an additional exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Apparatus300 ofFIG. 5 comprises afirst slide302 including a firstinner rail308 and a firstouter rail320. With reference toFIG. 5, it may be appreciated that a plurality ofballs372 are disposed between firstinner rail308 and firstouter rail320.Apparatus300 also comprises asecond slide304 including a secondinner rail322, a secondouter rail324 and a plurality ofballs372 disposed therebetween.
• InFIG. 5, aflange338 is shown disposed aboutfirst slide302 andsecond slide304.Flange338 is fixed to firstouter rail320 offirst slide302 by afastener374. Asecond fastener374 is shown fixing secondouter rail324 toflange338. In the embodiment ofFIG. 5, ashaft376 is fixed toflange338 by a plurality offasteners378. In the embodiment ofFIG. 5,shaft376 rotatably supports awheel334 of abalance mechanism306.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 5,balance mechanism306 also comprises aspring350. Acam member342 ofwheel334 is coupled tospring350 by afirst cable362 and abottom spring plate352. Apulley member340 ofwheel334 is coupled to firstinner rail308 offirst slide302 by asecond cable344 and abracket346.Balance mechanism306 may advantageously provide a balancing force between firstinner rail308 and firstouter rail320 in the embodiment ofFIG. 5. In some useful embodiments of the present invention,cam member342 is shaped and positioned so that a torque applied towheel334 byfirst cable362 is substantially constant while a force applied towheel334 byfirst cable362 varies. When this is the case,second cable344 preferably applies a substantially constant balancing force to firstinner rail308.
• With reference toFIG. 5, it will be appreciated that anoutside surface380 of firstouter rail320 and anoutside surface380 of secondouter rail324 define afirst reference plane382 and asecond reference plane384. In the embodiment ofFIG. 5,balance mechanism306 is disposed betweenfirst reference plane382 andsecond reference plane384. Also in the embodiment ofFIG. 5,balance mechanism306 is disposed within aprojection386 defined byoutside surface380 of firstouter rail320. InFIG. 5,projection386 extends betweenfirst reference plane382 andsecond reference plane384.
• FIG. 6 is an elevation view of anapparatus500 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Apparatus500 ofFIG. 6 includes abalance mechanism506 that is coupled between a firstinner rail508 and a firstouter rail520.Balance mechanism506 may advantageously provide a balancing force between firstinner rail508 and firstouter rail520. In the embodiment ofFIG. 6,balance mechanism506 comprises awheel534 and aspring550.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 6,wheel534 comprises acam member542 that is coupled tospring550 by afirst cable562 and abottom spring plate552. In some useful embodiments of the present invention,cam member542 is shaped and positioned so that a torque applied towheel534 byspring550 is substantially constant while a force applied towheel534 byspring550 varies. The force provided byspring550 may vary, for example, as the deflection ofspring550 varies.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 6,spring550 is capable of assuming a relaxed shape and a plurality of compressed shapes. For example,spring550 may assume a completely relaxed shape when no forces act onspring550 to hold it in compression. In the embodiment ofFIG. 6,spring550 is pictured having a somewhat compressed shape relative to its relaxed shape. Whenspring550 assumes the shape shown inFIG. 6,spring550 has a length LA.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 6,wheel534 comprises apulley member540 that is coupled to firstinner rail508 offirst slide502 by abracket546 and asecond cable544. Accordingly,wheel534 may be urged to rotate in acounter-clockwise direction548 by movingdistal end526 of firstinner rail508 towarddistal end527 of firstouter rail520. In some useful embodiments of the present invention,second cable544 applies a substantially constant balancing force to firstinner rail508.
• FIG. 7 is an additional elevation view ofapparatus500 shown in the previous figure. In the embodiment ofFIG. 7,apparatus500 is shown in a generally retracted state in whichdistal end526 of firstinner rail508 is located closer todistal end527 of first outer rail520 (relative to the state shown in the previous figure). An over-all length ofspring550 is labeled LB inFIG. 7. InFIG. 7,spring550 is shown assuming a shape that is more compressed than the shape shown in the previous figure. Accordingly, length LB shown inFIG. 7 is generally smaller than length LA shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 8 is an additional elevation view ofapparatus500 shown in the previous figure.Apparatus500 ofFIG. 8 includes abalance mechanism506 comprising aspring550 that is disposed between abottom spring plate552 and atop spring plate553.Top spring plate553 is coupled to abase588 ofapparatus500 by anadjustment screw590. The distance betweentop spring plate553 andbase588 can be adjusted by rotatingadjustment screw590.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 8,top spring plate553 has been positioned so thatspring550 has assumed a length LC. With reference to the figures, it will be appreciated that length LC is generally smaller than length LA shown inFIG. 6. In the embodiment ofFIG. 8,spring550 is capable of assuming a relaxed shape and a plurality of compressed shapes. For example,spring550 may assume a completely relaxed shape when no forces act onspring550 to hold it in compression. In the embodiment ofFIG. 8,spring550 is pictured having a somewhat compressed shape relative to its relaxed shape.
• Base588 ofapparatus500 is coupled to a firstouter rail520 and a secondouter rail524. Aflange538 ofapparatus500 is also coupled to firstouter rail520 and secondouter rail524. Awheel534 of abalance mechanism506 is pivotally supported byflange538, firstouter rail520 and secondouter rail524. In the embodiment ofFIG. 8,balance mechanism506 is coupled between a firstinner rail508 and a firstouter rail520.Balance mechanism506 may advantageously provide a balancing force between firstinner rail508 and firstouter rail520. In the embodiment ofFIG. 8, the balancing force provided bybalance mechanism506 can be adjusted by rotatingadjustment screw590.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 8,wheel534 of balance mechanism comprises acam member542 that is coupled tospring550 by afirst cable562 and abottom spring plate552. In some useful embodiments of the present invention,cam member542 is shaped and positioned so that a torque applied towheel534 byspring550 is substantially constant while a force applied towheel534 byspring550 varies. The force provided byspring550 may vary, for example, as the deflection ofspring550 varies.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 8,wheel534 comprises apulley member540 that is coupled to firstinner rail508 offirst slide502 by abracket546 and asecond cable544. Accordingly,wheel534 may be urged to rotate in acounter-clockwise direction548 by movingdistal end526 of firstinner rail508 towarddistal end527 of firstouter rail520. In some useful embodiments of the present invention,second cable544 applies a substantially constant balancing force to firstinner rail508.
• FIG. 9 is an additional elevation view ofapparatus500 shown in the previous figure. In the embodiment ofFIG. 9,apparatus500 is shown in a generally retracted state in whichdistal end526 of firstinner rail508 is located closer todistal end527 of first outer rail520 (relative to the state shown in the previous figure). An over-all length ofspring550 is labeled LD inFIG. 9. InFIG. 9,spring550 is shown assuming a shape that is more compressed than the shape shown in the previous figure. Accordingly, length LD shown inFIG. 9 is generally smaller than length LC shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 10 is a front view of anapparatus700 in accordance with an additional exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Apparatus700 comprises abase788 and atrolley792 that is preferably free to move relative tobase788. In the embodiment ofFIG. 10, the motion oftrolley792 is guided by afirst guide794 and a second guide796.
• Apparatus700 also comprises abalance mechanism706 for providing a balancing force betweentrolley792 andbase788. In the embodiment ofFIG. 10,balance mechanism706 includes awheel734 comprising apulley member740 and acam member742. In the embodiment ofFIG. 10, asecond cable744 is shown extending between thepulley member740 andtrolley792.Second cable744 is attached totrolley792 at ananchor798.Anchor798 is represented by a circle inFIG. 10.
• Apparatus700 also comprises afirst cable762 having afirst end200 and asecond end202.Second end202 offirst cable762 is represented by a square inFIG. 10. In the embodiment ofFIG. 10,first end200 of afirst cable762 is connected tocam member742 ofwheel734. A force F is shown acting onfirst cable762 proximatesecond end202 thereof.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 10,apparatus700first cable762 connects the cam member of the wheel to an energy source ES for biasing the wheel to rotate in a first direction. In some useful embodiments of the present invention, the cam member is shaped and positioned so that a torque applied to the wheel by the first cable is substantially constant or varied in a pre-determined manner while an output of the energy source varies.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 10, energy source ES comprises a plurality of extension springs770. In this exemplary embodiment, the output of energy source ES may vary as a function of a deflection of the extension springs770.Apparatus700 ofFIG. 10 also includes an adjustment mechanism ADJ that may be used to vary an output of energy source ES. With reference toFIG. 10, it will be appreciated that extension springs770 extend between abottom spring plate772 and atop spring plate773.Bottom spring plate772 is coupled to abase788 ofapparatus700 by anadjustment screw790. The position ofbottom spring plate772 relative to base788 can be adjusted by rotatingadjustment screw790.
• In the embodiment ofFIG. 10,wheel734 is pivotally supported bybase788 so thatwheel734 pivots about apivot axis736. InFIG. 10,first cable762 is shown contactingcam member742 at afirst intersection754. Afirst reference line756 is shown passing throughpivot axis736 ofwheel734 andfirst intersection754 inFIG. 10. In the embodiment ofFIG. 10,first intersection754 andpivot axis736 are separated by a first radius RA.
• In some useful embodiments of the present invention,cam member742 is shaped and positioned so that a torque applied towheel734 byfirst cable762 is substantially constant while a force applied towheel734 byfirst cable762 varies. In some embodiments of the present invention, for example, the effective radius ofcam member742 varies as a function of the angular orientation ofwheel734. Also in some useful embodiments of the present invention, the effective radius ofcam member742 may vary as a function of the displacement of a spring ofbalance mechanism706.
• FIG. 11 is an additional front view ofapparatus700 shown in the previous figure. With reference to the figures, it will be appreciatedwheel734 has a first angular orientation corresponding to a first position oftrolley792 and a second angular orientation corresponding to a second position oftrolley792. The first position oftrolley792 is shown in the previous figure and the second position oftrolley792 is shown inFIG. 11.
• InFIG. 11,first cable762 is shown contactingcam member742 at asecond intersection764. Asecond reference line766 is shown passing throughpivot axis736 ofwheel734 andsecond intersection764 inFIG. 11. In the embodiment ofFIG. 10,second intersection764 andpivot axis736 are separated by a second radius RB. With reference to the figures, it will be appreciated that radius RB is generally smaller than radius RA shown in the previous figure.
• FIG. 12 is a perspective view of anapparatus900 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Apparatus900 ofFIG. 12, comprises ahead204 that is slidingly coupled to abase988 by afirst slide902 and asecond slide904. In the embodiment ofFIG. 12,head204 is connected to a firstinner rail908 of afirst slide902 and a secondinner rail922 of asecond slide904. InFIG. 12,base988 is shown connected to a firstouter rail920 offirst slide902 and a secondouter rail924 ofsecond slide904.Apparatus900 ofFIG. 12 also includes abalance mechanism906 that is coupled betweenbase988 andhead204 for providing a balancing force. In the embodiment ofFIG. 12,balance mechanism906 comprises awheel206.
• A mountingbracket248 is coupled to head204 by apivot mechanism208 in the embodiment ofFIG. 12. A device such as, for example, an electronic display may be fixed to mountingbracket248 so thatapparatus900 supports the device at a desired position. In the embodiment ofFIG. 12,pivot mechanism208 advantageously provides a tilting motion to mountingbracket248 so that mountingbracket248 can be arranged at a desired angle of tilt. In a preferred embodiment,head204 andbase988 are moveable relative to one another for selectively repositioning the device. For example,head204 may be raised and lowered relative tobase988.
• FIG. 13 is an exploded view ofapparatus900 shown in the previous figure. InFIG. 13, it may be appreciated thatpivot mechanism208 comprises a plurality of torsion springs220. Afirst leg222 of eachtorsion spring220 engages anotch224 defined by a firststructural member226. Anadjustment plate228 engages asecond leg232 of eachtorsion spring220. A tilt adjustscrew230 may be used to adjust the position ofsecond leg232 of eachtorsion spring220.
• Firststructural member226 may be pivotally attached to a secondstructural member236 by a plurality ofbolts238. InFIG. 13, it may be appreciated that secondstructural member236 defines a threadedhole240. Threadedhole240 is preferably adapted to receive tilt adjustscrew230. A mountingbracket248 may be pivotally connected to firststructural member226 by abolt242.
• As previously described, any of thevarious balance mechanisms106 discussed herein may be utilized to lift adisplay1100, such as a flat panel display for a computer or television (e.g., LCD or plasma). Generally, adisplay1100 has a first side adapted to show an image and asecond side1104 opposite the first side, as shown inFIGS. 14 and 15.
• As shown inFIGS. 14-17B, abalance mechanism1110, such as any of the balancing mechanisms described herein, may be carried by (e.g., on or within) thedisplay1100. Such balance mechanisms may be attached to asupport1120, such as a stand or wall mount, to provide a non-telescoping vertical adjustment ofdisplay1100.
• The balance mechanism may be carried on or within thedisplay1100 in any suitable location. For example, the balance mechanism may be enclosed within thedisplay housing1130. As shown inFIGS. 15 and 16, acover1140 may enclose the balance mechanism so that it is not visible to the operator as the display moves up and down. In such embodiments, acavity1150 sized to receive the balance mechanism may be included proximate the second side1004 of the display. In other embodiments, the balance mechanism may be carried on the exterior of the display, as shown inFIG. 17A & B.
• Embodiments including the balance mechanism carried on or within the display allow for a greater variety ofsupport1120 configurations. For example, thesupport1120 may be slimmer and have a greater variety of geometric shapes (e.g., curved) than supports that house the lift device. As shown inFIG. 15, thestand1120 may include one ormore apertures1162 to provide a relatively unobstructed view from one side of the stand to the opposite side of the stand. In addition, in some embodiments, thesupport1120 contains atilt mechanism1160 to allow for tilting of the display as well as vertical adjustment, as best shown inFIGS. 18A & B and19 A & B.
• The balance mechanism may be functionally coupled to the display and the stand in any suitable fashion. In some embodiments, the balance mechanism is incorporated into alift device unit1164. Such alift device unit1164 may comprise a convenient self contained force balancing system that may be installed in many environments to add balancing forces for easy adjustability. As shown inFIG. 16, the display may have acavity1150 with a shape (e.g., rectangular) adapted to receive and mate with thelift device unit1164. In such embodiments, thelift device unit1164 may be functionally coupled to the display by placing it within thecavity1150. In such embodiments, thecover1140 may include one ormore slots1170 adapted to allow acoupler1180 carried on thelift device unit1164 to pass through thecover1140 and connect to thesupport1120. As shown inFIG. 15,lift device unit1164 may include one ormore slots1182 to allow forcoupler1180 to move between relatively higher and lower positions within the unit. As shown inFIG. 16A, lift device unit may include, for example, balance mechanisms such as those described with reference toFIG. 1 having a cam (not shown inFIG. 16A) and slides108,120,122, and124 andspring150.
• In other embodiments, thelift device1164 may be functionally coupled to the display and the support with anassembly1190, such as the assembly shown inFIGS. 20-22. As shown, the assembly may have afirst bracket1200 useful for functionally coupling the lift device to the display.First bracket1200 may include one ormore apertures1210 useful for attaching thefirst bracket1200 to the display housing with, for example, bolts. Theassembly1190 may also include asecond bracket1220 useful for attaching the lift device to a support (e.g., a stand). Such embodiments allow for efficient attachment of the lift device to the display and support, and facilitates utilizing the lift device with a wide variety of display sizes and shapes.
• Any of the various embodiments of the balance mechanisms discussed above may also be utilized in an article with a generallyplanar support surface1300, (e.g., furniture applications such as a cabinet, table, or desk). An embodiment of an article with a generally planar support surface is shown inFIGS. 23-26A. As shown inFIG. 23, thearticle1300 includes a top generallyplanar support surface1310. Some embodiments include at least oneside surface1320 and afront surface1330.Front surface1330 may be provided with one ormore doors1340 to provide access to the interior of thearticle1300. One ormore legs1350 may also be provided to support thearticle1300. Other examples of suitable articles include conference tables with generallyplanar support surface1310 and one ormore legs1350.
• In some embodiments, the generally planar support surface may have afirst side1352 and asecond side1354, as shown inFIG. 26A.Second side1354 may be useful for providing a working surface. As shown inFIG. 24,top surface1310 may also be provided with aclosable portion1360 to allow communication between the exterior and interior of the article.Closable portion1360 may be, for example, hingedly connected to thearticle1300. Theclosable portion1360 may be opened and closed manually. In some embodiments, theclosable portion1360 may be opened and/or closed via remote control (e.g.,cabinet1300 is provided with a signal receiver and motor to raise and lower closable portion1360).
• When theclosable portion1360 is open, adisplay1370 may be retracted from a storage position proximate the first side of1352 to an exposed position proximate thesecond side1354. In embodiments where the generally planar support surface is horizontal, the display may be positionable between a storage position under the horizontal generally planar support surface and an exposed position above the generally planar support surface. Such an article is useful for providing a clean working surface while keeping the display hidden and protected when it is not desired to be used, and for allowing the display to be viewed when so desired.
• In some embodiments, theclosable portion1360, when closed, may exert a downward force on a display to balance an upward bias on the display. In such embodiments, when theclosable portion1360 is opened and the downward force is removed, the upward bias may raise the display without user intervention. In other embodiments, opening theclosable portion1360 may trigger a release which allows the display to raise. In such embodiments, thearticle1300 may be designed such that the display rises to a desired position upon the opening of the closable portion. In such embodiments, a user may exert a downward force sufficient to overcome the upward bias on the display, thereby lowering the display back to a position allowing theclosable portion1360 to be closed. In some embodiments, theclosable portion1360 may be connected to the display and not to thearticle1300. In such embodiments, theclosable portion1360 may lie in perpendicular relation to the direction the display travels during raising and lowering. In such embodiments, theclosable portion1360 may be made of the same material as thearticle1300, thereby providing the utility of a continuous generally planar support surface when theclosable portion1360 is in the closed position.
• FIGS. 25 and 26A show adisplay1370 that may be received through theclosable portion1360 when it is in an open position.Display1370 may be a relatively large display, such as a display with a diagonal size of more than about 36 inches and weighing more than about 100 pounds. The display may be raised and/or lowered manually. In some embodiments, the vertical adjustment of thedisplay1370 may be actuated via remote control. In some embodiments,article1300 is provided with a signal receiver and an actuator to releasedisplay1370.Display1370 may be biased to move upwards or downwards upon release, or a motor may be utilized to provide the movement. In such embodiments, thedisplay1370 may push theclosable portion1360 open, thereby allowing thedisplay1370 to rise without interference from theclosable portion1360. In such embodiments, lowering the display may urge theclosable portion1360 into the closed position or may allow theclosable portion1360 to return to the closed position.
• Any of the various embodiments of lift devices discussed above may be functionally coupled to the display. Such embodiments are useful for providing an article that keeps the display out of sight until a user wishes to view it. When desired,closable portion1360 may be opened and the display lifted and exposed. When viewing is completed, the display may be retracted beneath the generally planar support surface and the closable portion closed. Articles such as those shown inFIGS. 23-26A may save space and protect the display from gathering dust or from being damaged when not in use.
• FIG. 26B and C show schematic side and bottom views, respectively, of anarticle1300 in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As shown,article1300 may contain asupport member1400.Support member1400 is useful for supporting a display (not shown inFIG. 26B and C). For example, a display may be coupled tosupport member1400 by one or more brackets. In other embodiments, a display may rest on the top side of thesupport member1400.
• Support member1400 may be connected to thepulley member1410 of awheel1420 bysecond cable1422. As discussed above, the pulley member of a wheel may be connected to acam surface1430, and afirst cable1424 may connectcam surface1430 to one or moreenergy storage members1440, such as springs. In some embodiments theenergy storage members1440 are functionally coupled to atension adjustment member1441. It should be noted thatFIG. 26B and C show only one configuration of the balancing system, and components of the balancing system, such as the cam and spring, may be placed in any suitable location. In some embodiments,additional pulleys1442,1444 may be useful for routing cables between thesupport member1400 andwheel1420 and/or between thewheel1420 andenergy storage members1440.
• Further,support member1400 may be further supported on one or more of itsends1450,1452 byrisers1456,1458. In addition, one ormore pinions1462,1464 may be carried proximate the first end and/or second ends1450,1452 to engage withtracks1468,1470 located on one or more of the risers. Such embodiments are useful for providing controlled vertical adjustment of a display supported bysupport member1400. As shown, articles comprising a generally planar support surface may allow for the selective exposure of a display and vertical adjustment thereof.
• FIGS. 27 and 28 show aslide assembly2700 that may be used in some embodiments of the invention. Such a slide assembly may be utilized as an alternative to thefirst slide102 andsecond slide104 discussed in reference toFIG. 1 et al. In some embodiments, such aslide assembly2700 may be used to support relatively larger loads, such as displays weighing more than about 100 pounds. The slide assembly may include aninner slide mechanism2705 and anouter slide mechanism2710 in sliding or rolling engagement, together defining acavity2712. It should be noted that the terms “outer slide” and “inner slide” are merely for convenience for purposes of discussion, and do not mean that the outer slide has to literally be outer of the inner slide. Theouter slide mechanism2710 may be generally enclosed on three sides and may have an opening on the top and/or bottom and on one of the sides to receive theinner slide mechanism2705. In some embodiments, balancing mechanism components, such as wheels, cams, cables, and energy storage members, may be disposed within thecavity2712.
• Theouter slide mechanism2710 may be produced by any suitable method. In some embodiments, theouter slide mechanism2710 may be extruded out of materials such as, e.g., aluminum. Such extruded aluminum slide mechanisms may provide a lower cost alternative to folded sheet metal, while providing higher reliability over a longer life.
• In some embodiments, theouter slide mechanism2710 may be designed with various slots (e.g., T-slots)2715,2717,2719. Such slots may be useful for receiving the head of a bolt (not shown). A nut may then be tightened over the bolt to rigidly retain the bolt within the slot. Accessories, such as shelves, may then be supported by the bolts. Such a configuration allows for the location of the accessories to be easily adjusted along the length of the slots withinouter slide mechanism2710. Extrusion forming theouter slide mechanism2710 allows for a fast and low cost method of forming these slots.
• Theinner slide mechanism2705 may be received within one or more openings of the outer slide mechanism and may translate relative to the outer slide mechanism along a longitudinal axis of both theinner slide mechanism2705 and theouter slide mechanism2710. Theinner slide mechanism2705 may include a U-bracket2721. The inner slide mechanism may also be operatively connected torollers2725, which may be coupled to theU-bracket2721. Therollers2725 may be configured to fit intracks2730 defined in theouter slide assembly2710. The interaction of therollers2725 and thetracks2730 may enable the aforementioned translation of theinner slide mechanism2705 relative to theouter slide mechanism2710. Therollers2725 may comprise nylon.
• Theinner slide mechanism2705 may include a mountingbracket2735, which may be coupled to, and/or integral with, theU-bracket2721. The mountingbracket2721 may be configured to receive a display such as, e.g., a TV monitor. Thus, by using theexemplary slide assembly2700 ofFIGS. 27 and 28, a user may adjust the positioning of, e.g., a display.
• Some embodiments of the balance mechanism include a more reliable and lower cost method of coupling a cable to an energy storage member (e.g., a spring). For example, as shown inFIGS. 29A-29C, a “bullet”type mechanism2905 that may be used to couple acable2910 to acoil spring2915 in some embodiments of the invention. Such abullet type mechanism2905 provides a lower cost and more reliable alternative to coupling the spring to thetop spring plate153, as shown inFIG. 3. Thebullet type mechanism2905 may include three sections: a largercylindrical section2920, a smallercylindrical section2925, and an intermediateconical section2930. Thecable2910 may be received within the smallercylindrical section2925 and may be prevented from withdrawing from the smallercylindrical section2925 by astop2935.
• Thebullet type mechanism2905 may be configured to translate within thecoil spring2915 along a longitudinal axis of both thebullet type mechanism2905 and thecoil spring2915. The inner diameter of the body of thecoil spring2915 may be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the largercylindrical section2920 of thebullet type mechanism2905. The inner diameter of the top of thecoil spring2915 may be smaller than the outer diameter of the largercylindrical section2920 of the bullet type mechanism and the bullet mechanism may be configured to contact the inner surface of the spring. In such embodiments, when a tensile force T is applied to thecable2910, the intermediateconical section2930 of thebullet type mechanism2905 contacts the top of thecoil spring2915, thereby applying the tensile force T to thecoil spring2915.
• Embodiments using abullet type mechanism2905 provide several advantages over approaches that simply attach the cable directly to the top of thecoil spring2915. For example, thebullet type mechanism2905 may contact more surface area of thecoil spring2915 than direct attachment embodiments. The increased contact area may result in a better load distribution, which may lead to fewer deformities in thecoil spring2915. Also, such embodiments may simplify the assembly process and allow for superior spring properties.
• FIGS. 30A-31C show abrake3000 that may be used in some embodiments of the present invention. Such abrake3000 is useful for preventing a display from free falling in the event that acable1422 supporting the load severs or disengages.FIG. 30C shows an embodiment of abrake3000 in its unactivated configuration, andFIG. 31C shows thesame brake3000 in its activated configuration. In some embodiments,brake3000 is coupled to aninner slide2705 that is in sliding or rolling engagement with anouter slide2710. As described above,inner slide2705 may comprise abracket2735 useful for mounting a display.
• As shown in the Figures,brake3000 may comprise first andsecond pivoting members3010,3012 pivotable about acoupling member3020. In some embodiments, anactuating member3022 may be provided to actuate the pivoting of the pivotingmembers3010,3012.Coupling member3020 and actuatingmember3022 may be carried upon ashaft3024, such as a bolt. An energy storage member, such asspring3030, may also be carried aboutshaft3024 to provide energy to pivot the pivotingmembers3010,3012.
• Acable1422 utilized inbalancing mechanism106 may be coupled to the shaft by, for example, engagingeye3036. Thus, in normal use, the cable extendsspring3030, movingactuating member3022 away from pivotingmembers3010,3012 and allowing the pivoting members to assume a relaxed state, as shown inFIG. 30C. However, in the event cable tension is lost (e.g., the cable severs or disconnects),spring3030 will push againstpivot members3010,3012, causing them to pivot aboutcoupling member3020 to engageslide2710, as shown inFIG. 31C. Once engaged, thebrake3000 will arrest downward movement of a display coupled to mountingbracket2735. Such a brake is particularly useful in embodiments containing a large display (e.g., more than about 100 pounds), where a display in free fall could cause significant damage or injury.
• In some embodiments, thepivot members3010,3012 may be adapted to increase the engagement (e.g., frictional engagement) withslide2710. For example, the ends ofpivot members3010,3012 may compriseteeth3036 to facilitate engagement with a slide. In some embodiments, thepivot members3010,3012 may comprise hardened steel, which is useful for frictionally engaging a slide, particularly when the slide comprises a relatively softer and/or deformable material, such as aluminum.
• It should be noted thatspring3030 need not be a high force spring, as it only needs enough energy to push the pivoting members outwards to make sure they engage with slide2710 (e.g., about 5 pounds). That is, the spring need not provide forces sufficient to arrest a free fall of a display, as the weight of the display itself coupled with the angles of the pivoting members will tend to push thepivot members3010,3012 intoslide2710.
• To further provide high reliability over a long life at a relatively low cost, any of the cables discussed above may be produced from materials including high tensile strength polymers. Such tensile polymers provide greater reliability over a longer useful life than wound metal cables. For example, a typical computer stand mechanism built with a steel cable will break in less than 500 cycles, while an engineered polymer fiber rope may exceed 10,000 cycles. Polymeric fibers may comprise, for example, aromatic polyester liquid crystal polymers, amid fibers, or other high tensile strength synthetic fibers woven into a rope configuration.
• In addition, any of the various cams discussed above may be produced from a material comprising nylon, cast aluminum, and/or or glass filled polymers. Examples include, but are not limited to RTP 805 TFE5, which is an acetal material with 30% glass fill and 5% PTFE. These materials may comprise glass within a range of about 10-60%. Moreover, such materials may include nylon, acetal, and POM. These materials provide a sturdy and dependable cam that will not deform over many cycles at a relatively low cost.
• FIG. 32 shows acart3200 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As shown,cart3200 is useful for supporting an object, such as adisplay3210. In some embodiments, thecart3200 may be adapted to lift a display weighing over about 100 pounds (e.g., about 110 pounds). Thecart3200 is adapted to provide vertical lift to the display in the manner discussed above. In some embodiments,cart3200 may provide about 20 inches of lift to the display.
• Cart3200 contains acolumn portion3220 and abase portion3230.Column portion3220 is useful for providing the vertical adjustment of the display, and thebase portion3230 is useful for supporting the column portion.Column portion3220 may contain the inner and outer slide mechanisms as shown inFIGS. 27 and 28 and described above. In some embodiments, the balance mechanism may reside entirely within thecavity2712 as described above with reference toFIG. 27. Such embodiments are useful for protecting the balance mechanism components from contact with foreign objects without the need for additional protective coverings and also for providing a slim and easily maneuverable profile.
• Further, in some embodiments,column portion3220 may also support accessories such as first andsecond trays3240,3250.Trays3240,3250 may be adapted to support electronics equipment such as, for example, tuners, receivers, media players and/or recorders. In some embodiments, thetrays3240,3250 comprise a transparent material, such as glass or clear plastic. The accessories may be coupled to the column in any suitable fashion. In some embodiments, the accessories may be coupled to aslot2715,2717,2719 as described above in reference toFIGS. 27 and 28.
• In some embodiments,base portion3230 comprises one ormore base arms3260. Further, thebase arms3260 may comprisewheels3270 to facilitate movement of thecart3200. Such easily maneuverable carts are especially enhanced by the relatively slim column as shown inFIG. 32 and described above.
• Another embodiment of acart3200 is shown inFIG. 33. In the embodiment shown,cart3200 again includes acolumn portion3220 and abase portion3230.Column portion3220 is useful for supporting objects,such display3210. Further,column3220 may support accessories such as atray3280 useful for supporting akeyboard3290. Thecolumn3220 may provide for vertical adjustment of the display and tray (e.g., about 20 inches of vertical adjustment) as described above. Such carts are useful for sit-stand workstations because the vertical position of the display and keyboard may be simultaneously adjusted while keeping the relative distance between the display and keyboard constant. Any of the balancing engines disclosed above may be used to balance the forces during the vertical lift. In some embodiments, the cam is located proximate thebase3230 and has a vertical axis of rotation.
• Further, a lock may be provided to lock the vertical position when desired. Such embodiments are useful for stabilizing the vertical position of the display and/or tray when the tray is used as a working surface. The lock may be actuated by any suitable method. In some embodiments,lever3300 is used to lock and unlock the balance mechanism. For example,lever3300 may be biased to a relatively higher position that locks the lift mechanism and may unlock the lift mechanism when depressed, such as by a foot of an operator. In some embodiments, the balance mechanism may be biased to move the display and/or tray up or down when the lift mechanism is unlocked.
• In some embodiments,base portion3230 comprises one ormore base arms3260 andwheels3270. As shown inFIG. 33, thebase3230 may also support aCPU3310 that is in communication (e.g., electrically and/or wirelessly) with thedisplay3210 and/orkeyboard3290. Of course, thecart3310 may also be configured to support other types of equipment, such as, for example, lap top computers and scanners.
• Numerous characteristics and advantages of the invention covered by this document have been set forth in the foregoing description. It will be understood, however, that this disclosure is, in many respects, only illustrative. Changes may be made in details, particularly in matters of shape, size and ordering of steps without exceeding the scope of the invention. The invention's scope is, of course, defined in the language in which the appended claims are expressed.

Claims (11)

1-42. (canceled)

43. A display positioning assembly comprising:

a base adapted to rest on a generally horizontal support surface;

an electronic display supported by the base; and

a balance mechanism operatively connected to the base via a tilt mechanism for tilting the electronic display relative to the base, the balance mechanism balancing forces between the base and the electronic display to provide vertical adjustment of the display relative to the base, the balance mechanism comprising a wheel comprising a pulley member and a cam member, a first cable coupling an energy source to the cam member, and a second cable functionally coupling the pulley member to the display so that the wheel rotates when the display is vertically adjusted,

the tilt mechanism being on a base side of the balance mechanism, and the balance mechanism tilting along with the electronic display when the electronic display is tilted relative to the base to provide vertical adjustment of the display relative to the base at an infinite number of positions along a range of travel regardless of the tilt angle of the display relative to the base.

44. The display positioning assembly ofclaim 43, wherein the energy source is a spring.

45. The display positioning assembly ofclaim 44, wherein the first cable is coupled to the spring by a bullet mechanism that is configured to contact the inner surface of the spring.

46. The display positioning assembly ofclaim 43, wherein the electronic display comprises a first surface able to display an image and a second surface opposite the first surface, wherein the balance mechanism is coupled to the second surface.

47. The display positioning assembly ofclaim 46, wherein the second surface of the electronic display defines a cavity and wherein the balance mechanism is substantially received within the cavity.

48. The display positioning assembly ofclaim 47, further comprising a cover configured to cover the cavity when the balance mechanism is housed therein.

49. The display positioning assembly ofclaim 43, wherein the balance mechanism is carried on an exterior rear surface of the display.

50. The display positioning assembly ofclaim 43, wherein the electronic display comprises a computer monitor.

51. The display positioning assembly ofclaim 43, wherein either the first cable or the second cable comprises a tensile polymer.

52. The display positioning assembly ofclaim 43, wherein the cam member comprises a material selected from the group consisting of nylon, aluminum, and a glass filled polymer.

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