US20160073772A1 - Bifocal display positioning apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

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.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES
• 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.
FIELD
• Embodiments 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.
BACKGROUND
• Many 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.
SUMMARY
• Embodiments 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.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• 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.
• FIG. 1A is a side view of a positioning apparatus.
• FIG. 1B is a side cross-section ofFIG. 1A.
• FIGS. 2A-2C are perspective views of positioning apparatuses with various mounting options.
• FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a keyboard tray.
• FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of a lift mechanism.
• FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a lift mechanism shown inFIG. 1B.
• FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a second lift mechanism shown inFIG. 1B.
• FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a screw clamp.
• FIG. 7B is a top view of the screw clamp ofFIG. 7A.
• FIG. 7C is a front view of the screw clamp ofFIG. 7A.
• FIG. 7D is a bottom view of the screw clamp ofFIG. 7A.
• FIG. 7E is a side view of the screw clamp ofFIG. 7A.
• FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a screw clamp.
• FIG. 8B is a top view of the screw clamp ofFIG. 8A.
• FIG. 8C is a front view of the screw clamp ofFIG. 8A.
• FIG. 8D is a bottom view of the screw clamp ofFIG. 8A.
• FIG. 8E is a side view of the screw clamp ofFIG. 8A.
• FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a c-clamp.
• FIG. 10A is a side view of a c-clamp in a first configuration.
• FIG. 10B is a side view of a c-clamp in a second configuration.
• FIG. 11 is a side view of a c-clamp attached to a support surface.
• FIGS. 12A and 12B are front perspective views of a positioning apparatus in a lowered position and a raised position, respectively.
• FIGS. 13A and 13B are rear perspective views of a positioning apparatus in a lowered position and a raised position, respectively.
• FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an apparatus.
• FIG. 15 is a partially exploded view of the apparatus ofFIG. 14.
• FIGS. 16A and 16B are partial, exploded views of a bottom portion of the apparatus ofFIG. 14.
• FIG. 17 is a partial elevation view of a top portion of an apparatus.
• FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a bottom portion of an apparatus.
• FIGS. 19A and 19B are perspective views of a cam member including a first cam and a second cam.
• FIG. 20 is a side plan view of the cam member ofFIG. 19A.
• FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a wheel pulley.
• FIG. 22 is a side plan view of the wheel pulley ofFIG. 21.
• FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a pulley system.
• FIG. 24 is a side plan view of the pulley system ofFIG. 23.
• FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a portion of a balance mechanism in a state corresponding to a first position of a mounting portion.
• FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of a balance mechanism in a state corresponding to a second position of a mounting portion.
• FIG. 27 is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 28A is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 28B is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIGS. 29A-29B are side schematic views of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 29C is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 30 is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 31 is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 32A is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 32B is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIGS. 33A and 33B are side schematic views of a positioning apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
• FIG. 34A is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 34B is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 35A is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 35B is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 36 is a side schematic view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a positioning apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
• FIGS. 39A-39F are side schematic views of positioning apparatuses in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
• 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 includedFIGS. 1-26 to provide background and disclosure to facilitate one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention, embodiments of which are described inFIGS. 27-39F. Applicants will describeFIGS. 1-26 in detail below.
• FIG. 27 is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2000 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Thepositioning apparatus2000 includes adisplay mount2002 and akeyboard tray2004 both coupled to ariser2006. Although not shown, theriser2006 is adapted to be supported in a generally vertical orientation by an existing support member (e.g., a table, bench, wall, etc.). Theriser2006 supports thedisplay mount2002 and thekeyboard tray2004, along with a supported (e.g., attached)display2010 and a keyboard (not shown), and provides simultaneous height adjustment of thedisplay mount2002, thedisplay2010, thekeyboard tray2004, and the keyboard through a generally vertical range oftravel2034 relative to a user. In some cases theapparatus2000 is vertically adjustable to an infinite number of positions along the extent of the available height adjustment.
• As will be discussed further herein, thedisplay mount2002 and thekeyboard tray2004 are configuable in multiple viewing configurations at each height provided by theriser2006. In certain embodiments thedisplay mount2002 and thekeyboard tray2004 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 thedisplay2010 in a generally declining orientation (e.g., looking ahead and downward), which can be useful for operators wearing bifocal lenses.
• Thepositioning apparatus2000 also includes amovement mechanism2020, which couples thedisplay mount2002 to theriser2006. Themovement mechanism2020 provides multiple positions for thedisplay mount2002 and the attacheddisplay2010 relative to theriser2006 and an operator. In this example themovement mechanism2020 provides at least a first position2022 (shown with the display illustrated in phantom) relative to the riser in the first viewing configuration. Themovement mechanism2020 also provides at least asecond position2024 relative to theriser2006 in the second viewing configuration. In this case thesecond position2024 is located at a greater horizontal distance from theriser2006 than thefirst position2022, though this is not required. The second configuration also provides avertical distance2025 between thedisplay mount2002 and thekeyboard tray2004 that is less than thevertical distance2027 provided by the first configuration. In this case configuring theapparatus2000 in the second configuration includes moving thedisplay mount2002 and thedisplay2010 from thefirst position2022 to thesecond position2024, which enables an operator to view thedisplay2010 in a generally declining orientation.
• Theriser2006 generally provides height adjustment, and can include any suitable mechanism for simultaneously raising and lowering thedisplay mount2002 and thekeyboard tray2004. 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 inFIG. 27, theriser2006 includes abracket2030 moveably coupled with asupport column2032. Theriser support column2032 and theriser bracket2030 are movably coupled through a generally vertical range oftravel2034, providing thedisplay2010 andkeyboard tray2004 with height adjustability relative to an operator. For example, in some cases rollers, slides, and optionally a lift mechanism (not shown) are provided to movably couple thesupport column2032 and theriser bracket2030. The generally vertical range oftravel2034 allows thepositioning apparatus2000 to move various items, including for example, thedisplay2010 andkeyboard tray2004 relative to the operator. Accordingly, thepositioning apparatus2000 can allow an operator to simultaneously adjust the height of multiple pieces of equipment.
• Mounting thepositioning apparatus2000 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 theapparatus2000 also includes a base or an attachment member (not shown) coupled to theriser2006 for supporting and/or attaching theriser2006 to a support member. Thepositioning apparatus2000 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 thepositioning apparatus2000, 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.,FIGS. 34-35,37-39, andFIGS. 1-26.
• In some cases the support member is horizontal and substantially parallel to a floor. In certain embodiments, however, thepositioning apparatus2000 may be adapted to be attached to a slightly inclined support member (e.g., an inclined desktop). Thepositioning apparatus2000 provides a range of travel for simultaneously moving various items, including computer monitors and keyboards, relative to the support member. Accordingly, thepositioning apparatus2000 can allow an operator to adjust the height of equipment relative to the support member and the operator. Supporting and/or mounting thepositioning apparatus2000 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 thepositioning apparatus2000 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, thepositioning apparatus2000 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.
• Theriser2006 can be dimensioned to provide the positioning apparatus with a vertical range oftravel2034 of any desired length, thus allowing thebracket2030 and the attached equipment to be moved through a wide range of heights. As will be appreciated, in cases where thesupport column2030 is positioned at an angle with respect to a vertical orientation, the apparatus may also provide an amount of horizontal movement as thebracket2030 moves through the vertical range oftravel2034.
• In a preferred embodiment, the vertical range oftravel2034 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 oftravel2034 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. Theriser2006 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 oftravel2034, 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 theriser2006 provides an infinite number of intermediate positions within the vertical range oftravel2034.
• Although not shown inFIG. 27, an optional lift mechanism is provided that movably couples thebracket2030 and thesupport column2032. The lift mechanism is not a required feature, but when incorporated it provides an operator with a degree of assistance to move theriser2006 through the range oftravel2034. For example, in some embodiments an energy storage member such as an extension spring provides a biasing force that aids an operator in adjusting the height of thebracket2030.
• 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 thebracket2030. 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 mechanism116 that can be adapted for use with embodiments of the present invention is described with respect toFIGS. 14-26. Another example of a balanced lift mechanism that can be adapted for use with embodiments of the present invention is described with respect toFIGS. 14-18 in presently co-owned U.S. PatentApplication Publication US 2006/0185563 A1, filed Sep. 28, 2005, the entire contents of which is incorporated by reference herein. The lift mechanism may also be provided according to embodiments 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.
• 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., seeFIG. 36). 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.
• Returning toFIG. 27, thepositioning apparatus2000 includes thedisplay mount2002 adapted to support thedisplay2010. As shown inFIG. 27, thedisplay mount2002 is coupled to theriser bracket2030 with themovement mechanism2020 and anoptional tilt mechanism2040. Thedisplay mount2002, thedisplay2010, themovement mechanism2020, and thekeyboard tray2004 thus move along with theriser bracket2030 through the vertical range oftravel2034. In general, thedisplay mount2002 is a structural component adapted to couple with thedisplay2010, for attaching thedisplay2010 to the positioning apparatus. For example, thedisplay mount2002 may include a bracket designed to mate with a matching recess or bolt holes in the back of the display. In certain embodiments thedisplay mount2002 includes a standard display interface or connector, such as a VESA connector. Of course other mounting structure, including brackets, fasteners, and the like are known in the art and the scope of the invention is not limited in this regard. In addition, it should be noted that thepositioning apparatus2000 may be configured to position a single display, multiple displays (e.g., two or three), and/or multiple displays and a laptop.
• Continuing with FTG.27, thekeyboard tray2004 is coupled to theriser bracket2030 below thedisplay mount2002. Thekeyboard tray2004 is a structural component adapted support a keyboard (not shown), and can thus take many forms. In the illustrated embodiment, thekeyboard tray2004 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 thedisplay2010. 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 toFIG. 27, the combination of theriser bracket2030, themovement mechanism2020 anddisplay mount2002, and thekeyboard tray2004 provide a frame configured to support thedisplay2010 and the keyboard in a spaced relationship, with the keyboard set apart from the display in order to allow an operator to comfortably use the keyboard on the tray while viewing the display.
• As shown inFIG. 27, thepositioning apparatus2000 includes a mounting configuration adapted to support theelectronic display2010 and a keyboard. It should be appreciated that a number of optional and/or alternative mounts and supports for attaching and otherwise supporting equipment and other items can be included. For example, any number of displays such as one, two, three or more displays can be mounted on a positioning apparatus, with or without a laptop. Some positioning apparatuses may include a fixed and/or movable tray, work surface, or platform. Some positioning apparatuses may include a document holder. Of course a wide variety of pieces of equipment can be supported by a positioning apparatus, including without limitation, an electronic display mount, a keyboard tray, a mouse tray, a document holder, a movable work surface, and a telephone holder.
• Thepositioning apparatus2000 also includes themovement mechanism2020, which couples thedisplay mount2002 to theriser2006. In this embodiment of the invention, themovement mechanism2020 includes acurved rail2050 and a bracket (e.g., integral with or attached to the optional tilt bracket2040) that slides over thecurved rail2050 to adjust the position of thedisplay mount2002 anddisplay2010. A fastener or other brake mechanism can be used to secure the bracket and display mount at a desired position along therail2050. In some cases thecurved rail2050 is attached at one end to theriser bracket2030, extends down and away from theriser2006, and is attached at the opposite end to thekeyboard tray2004. Other mounting configurations are possible. Therail2050 and bracket can be manufactured from any suitable material, such as metals, metal alloys, plastics, and/or composite materials.
• Themovement mechanism2020 thus provides a path of travel that guides movement of thedisplay mount2002 anddisplay2010 between thefirst display position2022 and thesecond display position2024. The curve of therail2050 also tilts the display mount and the display backward as the display is moved from the first position to the second position. Accordingly, themovement mechanism2020 provides a useful mechanism for adjusting the tilt and viewing angle of thedisplay2010 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 thedisplay2010 is in a generally horizontal viewing position (e.g., the first position2022), 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 thedisplay mount2002 and thedisplay2010 into the second position2024 (sometimes referred to herein as the “bifocal” position/orientation) locates thedisplay2010, tilted back and up, in a forward, lower position closer to thekeyboard tray2004. Thus, the operator can view thedisplay2010 through the higher power lens potion of a bifocal lens while keeping the operator's head relatively level and neck straight.
• Accordingly, moving thedisplay2010 into thesecond position2024 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 theoptional tilt mechanism2040 can provide an additional measure of tilt adjustment at any given position along therail2050. Further, thepositioning apparatus2000 can maintain thedisplay mount2002 and the attacheddisplay2010 close to thekeyboard tray2004 in the second viewing configuration at different heights of the positioning apparatus, e.g., for sitting and standing postures. The adjustability of themovement mechanism2020 allows the display to also be adjusted to thefirst position2022 in the generally horizontal viewing orientation which can be useful for operators without bifocal lenses.
• As illustrated inFIG. 27, thecurved rail2050 and the tilt bracket can provide a continuous range of tilt adjustment, with an infinite number of display positions between thefirst position2022 and thesecond position2024. In another configuration, a curved bracket only providing a discrete number of positions may instead be used to selectively mount thedisplay mount2002 at one of the first and the second positions. This configuration can provide a more economical configuration, especially for single-user workstations in which the display is not often adjusted.
• 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 toFIG. 27, thesecond position2024 is located generally forward of and at a lower height than thefirst position2022. This location for the bifocal position usefully places the display in the lower half of an operator's field of vision without the need to separately adjust the height of the positioning apparatus, thus making it easier for the operator to view the display by merely looking downward through bifocals.
• The second/bifocal position2024 for thedisplay2010 generally enables thedisplay2010 to tilt back from a vertical orientation to a greater degree than is available in thefirst position2022. In other words, themovement mechanism2020 and thedisplay mount2002 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 theriser2006 and/or thekeyboard tray2004 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 toFIG. 27, in thefirst position2022 theriser2006 obstructs movement of the display such that the display cannot tilt back from a vertical orientation to the same extent available in the second position. In some cases in thesecond position2024 thedisplay mount2002 and/ordisplay2010 are unable to tilt forward to a vertical orientation because thekeyboard tray2004 and/or keyboard obstruct forward movement due to the closeness of the display to the keyboard tray. In some embodiments the first position/configuration has a maximum backward tilt of less than about 20 degrees back from a vertical orientation. In certain embodiments the second position and second configuration have a maximum backward tilt of at least 30 degrees back from a vertical orientation. In some cases thedisplay mount2002 and thedisplay2010 can tilt up to about 45 degrees back from a vertical orientation in the second position/configuration.
• FIG. 28A is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2100A in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepositioning apparatus2100A includes ariser2106, adisplay mount2102, akeyboard tray2104, and a movement mechanism2120. The movement mechanism2120 includes pivot ortilt mechanisms2160,2162 and afolding arm2164 that couples thedisplay mount2102 and an attacheddisplay2110 to ariser bracket2130 of theriser2006. The pivoting arm provides thedisplay mount2102 with at least a first position2122 (shown with the display illustrated in phantom) relative to the riser in a first, generally horizontal viewing configuration. The arm also provides thedisplay mount2102 with at least asecond position2124 relative to theriser2106 in a second, generally declining viewing configuration. As described above with reference toFIG. 27, the movement mechanism2120 shown inFIG. 28A also provides a useful mechanism for adjusting the tilt and viewing angle of thedisplay2110 between the generally horizontal viewing configuration and the generally declining viewing configuration. Movement of thedisplay2110 from thefirst position2122 to thesecond position2124 enables an operator to view thedisplay2110 in a generally declining orientation, which can be useful for operators wearing bifocal lenses as described above.
• Thepivoting arm2164 pushes thedisplay mount2102 from thefirst position2122 forward, away from the riser, and downward to thesecond position2124, in close proximity with thekeyboard tray2104. According to certain embodiments, thepivoting arm2164 does not include a counter balance mechanism and relies on a brake or lock for holding the display mount and display in the first orsecond viewing positions2122,2124. In certain embodiments, the range of tilt angles and orientations of thedisplay2110 available in each of the first and second positions are similar to those described above with respect toFIG. 27.
• FIG. 28B is a side schematic view of another version of apositioning apparatus2100B in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, thepositioning apparatus2100B is configured to support an electronic display, but does not include a keyboard tray as in the embodiment shown inFIG. 28A. Accordingly, for applications in which use of a keyboard is not necessary or not desirable, theapparatus2100B inFIG. 28B can be useful for positioning a display without the cost and space needed to implement a keyboard tray. In particular, the embodiment inFIG. 28A can be useful for positioning a touch screen computer, such as a tablet computer. For example, the movement mechanism2120 shown inFIG. 28B can be used to adjust the tilt and viewing angle of thedisplay2110 between a generally horizontal viewing configuration and a generally declining viewing configuration as discussed above. Accordingly a user can view an electronic display such as a tablet computer from a variety of angles, including a generally declining orientation, which can be useful for operators wearing bifocal lenses as described above. Unless otherwise stated, it is contemplated that each of the positioning apparatuses described herein as including a keyboard tray can also be implemented without a keyboard tray as with theapparatus2100B.
• One example of a contemplated use for thepositioning apparatus2100B 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, thepositioning apparatus2100B 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 thepositioning apparatus2100B 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 anapparatus2100B 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 thesupport column2132 to provide height adjustment.
• FIGS. 29A-29B are side schematic views of apositioning apparatus2200A in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepositioning apparatus2200A includes ariser2206 having asupport column2232 and abracket2230, adisplay mount2202, akeyboard tray2204, and amovement mechanism2220.FIG. 29C is a side schematic view of asimilar positioning apparatus2200B that provides similar functionality but without a keyboard tray. Themovement mechanism2220 includes a panning mechanism that couples thedisplay mount2202 and an attacheddisplay2210 to theriser bracket2230. The panning mechanism provides thedisplay mount2202 with at least afirst position2222 relative to the riser (shown inFIG. 29A) and asecond position2224 relative to the riser2206 (shown inFIG. 29B). As described above with reference toFIG. 27, themovement mechanism2220 shown inFIGS. 29A-29B also provides a useful mechanism for adjusting the tilt and viewing angle of thedisplay2210 between a generally horizontal viewing configuration corresponding to thefirst position2222 and a generally declining viewing configuration corresponding to thesecond position2224. Movement of thedisplay2210 from thefirst position2222 to thesecond position2224 enables an operator to view thedisplay2210 in the generally declining configuration, which can be useful for operators wearing bifocal lenses as described above.
• Themovement mechanism2220 includes amount portion2250 attached to theriser bracket2230. Anarm2252 is rotatably coupled to themount portion2250 at one end and rotatably coupled to thedisplay mount2202 at the other end. In some cases anoptional tilt mechanism2240 can provide an additional measure of tilt adjustment at any given position. As an operator moves thedisplay2210 between the first and thesecond positions2222,2224, thearm2252 rotates with respect to themount portion2250 about afirst rotation axis2254. Thedisplay mount2202 and thedisplay2210 sweep through a circular path toward thesecond position2224, in close proximity with thekeyboard tray2204. Thearm2252 rotates about 180 degrees between the first position and the second position. In some cases thedisplay mount2202 and the display also rotate with respect to thearm2252 about asecond rotation axis2256 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 thedisplay2210 available in each of the first and second positions are similar to those described above with respect toFIG. 27.
• Thepositioning apparatus2200B inFIG. 29C provides similar functionality to theapparatus2200A inFIGS. 29A-29B, but does so without a keyboard tray, analogous to theapparatus2100B illustrated inFIG. 28B.
• FIG. 30 is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2300 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepositioning apparatus2300 includes ariser2306 having asupport column2332 and abracket2330, adisplay mount2302, akeyboard tray2304, and amovement mechanism2320. Themovement mechanism2320 includes a mountingbracket2350 attached to theriser bracket2330 and anarm2352 coupled to thedisplay mount2302. Apivot mechanism2354 is attached at the end of the mountingbracket2350 between the mountingbracket2350 and thearm2352, allowing thearm2352 and the attacheddisplay mount2302 anddisplay2310 to pivot away from theriser2306. Themovement mechanism2320 provides thedisplay mount2302 with at least a first position2322 (shown with the display illustrated in phantom) relative to the riser in a first viewing configuration and asecond position2324 relative to theriser2306 in a second viewing configuration.
• As described above with reference toFIG. 27, themovement mechanism2320 shown inFIG. 30 also provides a useful mechanism for adjusting the tilt and viewing angle of thedisplay2310 between a generally horizontal viewing configuration (i.e., with the display mount in the first position2322) and a generally declining viewing configuration (i.e., with thedisplay mount2002 in the second position2324). In this embodiment movement between thefirst position2322 and thesecond position2324 swings thedisplay mount2302 out and up relative to theriser2306 to tilt the supporteddisplay2310 back from a vertical orientation. Thesecond position2324 is thus located at a greater horizontal distance from theriser2306 than thefirst position2322 and also at higher vertical position relative to the riser than thefirst position2322.
• Although not required, in some cases additional relative movement between thedisplay mount2302 and thekeyboard tray2304 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 thekeyboard tray2304 to theriser2306. Thus, as themovement mechanism2320 moves thedisplay mount2302 out and up to position thedisplay2310 in the second position, the keyboard riser can also be adjusted to move thekeyboard tray2304 up toward thedisplay mount2302 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 themovement mechanism2320 may alternatively or additionally include an additional riser (not shown). For example, a display riser positioned between thedisplay mount2302 and thearm2352 can allow thedisplay mount2302 and thedisplay2310 to be moved closer to thekeyboard tray2304 in the second, generally declining viewing configuration. In certain embodiments a display riser (not shown) may alternatively or additionally be provided between theriser bracket2330 and the mountingbracket2350. Such a separate display riser can allow thedisplay mount2302 and the display2310 (along with the pivot mechanism2354) to be moved downward, closer to thekeyboard tray2304 while in thesecond position2324 to provide the second viewing configuration.
• As shown inFIG. 30, in certain cases the mountingbracket2350 is curved at one end and positions thepivot mechanism2354 above thedisplay mount2302 and thedisplay2310. Such a configuration allows thedisplay2310 to be positioned closely adjacent to theriser2306 in thefirst position2322, while also allowing the display to tilt back and up into the generally declining orientation without obstruction from theriser2306. In certain cases thepivot mechanism2354 is preferably counterbalanced, although this is not required. For example, thepivot mechanism2354 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 PatentApplication 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.
• In certain embodiments a supporting mechanism may support thedisplay mount2302 and the attacheddisplay2310 in thesecond position2324 in addition to or instead of a counterbalanced tilt mechanism.FIG. 31 illustrates one embodiment including alever2360 that rotatably couples to themovable arm2352 and can be used to support and/or lock thearm2352 in thesecond position2324. Thelever2360 engagesnotches2362 or another similar structure located on the mountingbracket2350. In some cases, the attached display can generate a significant amount of torque on thepivot mechanism2354 and thelever2360 can be useful for reducing wobble or sagging of themovement mechanism2320.
• FIG. 32A is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2400A in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepositioning apparatus2400A includes ariser2406 having asupport column2432 and abracket2430, adisplay mount2402, akeyboard tray2404, and amovement mechanism2420. Themovement mechanism2420 includes apivot mechanism2450 attached to theriser bracket2430 and anarm2452 that couples thedisplay mount2402 to theriser bracket2430 through thepivot mechanism2450, allowing thearm2452 and the attacheddisplay mount2402 and an attacheddisplay2410 to pivot away from theriser2406. Themovement mechanism2420 thus provides thedisplay mount2402 with at least a first position2422 (shown with the display illustrated in phantom) relative to the riser in a first configuration and asecond position2424 relative to theriser2406 in a second configuration.
• As described above with reference toFIG. 27, themovement mechanism2420 shown inFIG. 32A also provides a useful mechanism for adjusting the tilt and viewing angle of thedisplay2410 between a generally horizontal viewing configuration (with the display mount in the first position2422) and a generally declining viewing configuration (with the display mount in the second position2424). In this embodiment thesecond position2424 is located at a greater horizontal distance from theriser2406 than thefirst position2422 and also at higher vertical position relative to the riser than thefirst position2422. Movement of thedisplay2410 from thefirst position2422 to thesecond position2424 enables an operator to view thedisplay2410 in the generally declining viewing configuration.
• In this embodiment, thearm2452 provides thedisplay mount2402 and thedisplay2410 with independent sliding adjustment. For example, thearm2452 may be an independent riser and/or lift mechanism (e.g., providing 5 inches or any other suitable amount of adjustment) adapted to slide thedisplay2410 along the length of thearm2452. The sliding adjustment is useful for moving thedisplay mount2402 down the length of thearm2452 as the arm is rotated from thefirst position2422 to thesecond position2424. The translation of the display mount along the length of the arm prevents the top portion of thedisplay2410 from hitting theriser2406 as the display is tilted back and up. Thus, the display mount and display can be positioned closely adjacent to theriser2406, providing the positioning apparatus with a smaller profile in the first configuration. In addition, the independent riser also provides relative movement between thedisplay mount2402 and thekeyboard tray2404 to ensure that the keyboard is positioned relatively closely to the display in the generally declining viewing configuration.
• In certain cases thepivot mechanism2450 is preferably counterbalanced, although this is not required. For example, thepivot mechanism2450 may include any of the counterbalancing mechanisms described above with respect toFIGS. 30 and 31. In certain embodiments a supporting mechanism such as thelever2360 shown inFIG. 31 may support thedisplay mount2402 and the attacheddisplay2410 in thesecond position2424 in addition to or instead of a counterbalanced tilt mechanism.
• FIG. 32B is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2400B in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Theapparatus2400B provides similar functionality to theapparatus2400A inFIG. 32A, but does so without a keyboard tray, analogous to theapparatus2100B illustrated inFIG. 28B.
• FIGS. 33A and 33B are side schematic views of apositioning apparatus2500 in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. In these embodiments themovement mechanism2520 comprises apivoting arm2550 that moves thedisplay mount2502 and the attacheddisplay2510 from a first position in a generally horizontal viewing configuration to a second position with a generally declining viewing configuration. Movement of thedisplay2510 from the first position to the second position enables an operator to view thedisplay2510 in a generally declining orientation, which can be useful for operators wearing bifocal lenses as described above. In some cases anoptional tilt mechanism2540 can provide an additional measure of tilt adjustment at any given position.
• In certain embodiments thepivoting arm2550 is a two-bar arm or a four-bar arm that tilts thedisplay mount2502 and the attacheddisplay2510 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 thearm2550 lowers into the second position, thearm2550 tilts the display mount and display back and up, such that thedisplay2510 continues to be oriented toward an operator viewing the display. As thearm2550 raises into the first position, thearm2550 tilts the display mount and display forward and down, such that thedisplay2510 assumes a more vertical orientation. In certain embodiments, the range of tilt angles and orientations of thedisplay2510 available in each of the first and second positions are similar to those described above with respect toFIG. 27. In addition, thearm2550 can optionally include a lift mechanism and/or counter balance mechanism to assist an operator in moving the arm between the first and the second positions.
• Thepositioning apparatus2500 also includes a keyboard tray coupled to theriser bracket2530 below thedisplay mount2502. As shown inFIG. 33A, thekeyboard tray2504 is a flat work surface (e.g., a desk top or table) that extends out from the riser to position akeyboard2570 in front and below thedisplay2510. Turning toFIG. 33B, in some cases the positioning apparatus2500 (or any of the positioning apparatuses discussed herein) includes adedicated keyboard tray2572. For example, in some cases thekeyboard tray2572 is a sliding keyboard tray attached under awork surface2574. Such adjustability can provide increased comfort for an operator by positioning the keyboard tray2572 (and thekeyboard2570 supported on the tray) at an optimum distance from and more ergonomic relationship to the position of the attachedelectronic display2510. A number of mechanisms can be used to provide horizontal adjustability, including for example, drawer slides. Although not shown, it is also contemplated that other types of keyboard trays can be used and the invention is not limited in this regard.
• In addition, thekeyboard tray2504 illustrated inFIG. 33A, thekeyboard tray2572 illustrated inFIG. 33B, or any other useful keyboard tray may be coupled to theriser bracket2530 with a tilt mechanism (e.g., as shown inFIG. 3) that allows an operator to adjust the tilt of the keyboard tray relative to thedisplay2510. In some embodiments the equipment mount also or alternatively includes a folding mechanism that allows the keyboard tray to be folded closer to thesupport column2532. A 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.
• FIG. 34A is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2600A attached to asupport member2601 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The positioning apparatus2600 includes ariser2606 having ariser bracket2630 and asupport column2632, akeyboard tray2604, adisplay mount2602, and amovement mechanism2620. In this embodiment, themovement mechanism2620 includes a tilt mechanism that tilts thedisplay mount2602 and a supporteddisplay2610 down and forward to afirst position2622 in a first generally horizontal viewing configuration and back and upward to asecond position2624 in a second, generally declining viewing configuration. Thetilt mechanism2620 is attached to a top end of theriser support column2632, thus allowing thedisplay2610 to tilt backward without being obstructed by thesupport column2632. For example, in some embodiments thetilt mechanism2620 may provide a maximum backward tilt of at least 30 degrees.
• Although not required, in some cases additional relative movement between thedisplay mount2602 and thekeyboard tray2604 can ensure that the keyboard is positioned relatively closely to the display in the generally declining viewing configuration. For example, in certain embodiments theapparatus2600A may include a separate keyboard riser (not shown) coupling thekeyboard tray2604 to theriser2606. Thus, as themovement mechanism2620 tilts thedisplay mount2602 back and up to position thedisplay2610 in thesecond position2624, the keyboard riser can also be adjusted to move thekeyboard tray2604 up toward thedisplay mount2602 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.
• Thepositioning apparatus2600A provides a vertical range oftravel2634 similar to previously described embodiments of the invention. However, in this embodiment theriser bracket2630 is mounted to thesupport member2601 and thesupport column2632 supports thedisplay2610 andkeyboard2670 through the vertical range oftravel2634 relative to thesupport member2601. The positioning apparatus includes anattachment member2603 that attaches theriser bracket2630 to thesupport member2601. In some cases theattachment member2603 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 toFIGS. 27-33B could alternatively have a configuration similar to that shown inFIG. 34A in which the movement mechanism, display mount, and keyboard tray are coupled to the support column, which moves relative to the bracket to provide height adjustment relative to a support member.
• FIG. 34B is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2600B in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Theapparatus2600B provides similar functionality to theapparatus2600A inFIG. 34A, but does so without the need for a keyboard tray, analogous to theapparatus2100B illustrated inFIG. 28B.
• FIG. 35A is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2700A in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepositioning apparatus2700A is similar in many respects to thepositioning apparatus2600A shown inFIG. 34A. Theapparatus2700A includes ariser2706 with ariser bracket2730 attached to asupport member2701, and asupport column2732 supporting adisplay2710 and a keyboard tray2704/keyboard2770. At a top end of thesupport column2732, amovement mechanism2720 including a pivoting display riser couples thedisplay mount2702 anddisplay2710 to thesupport column2732. The movement mechanism includes aninline tilt mechanism2750 and anindependent riser2752 that can be used to tilt the display from a first position in which thedisplay mount2702 and the display are in a generally horizontal viewing configuration, to a second position in which thedisplay mount2702 and thedisplay2710 are in a generally declining viewing configuration2724 shown inFIG. 35A. As thedisplay mount2702 is tilted back and up, thedisplay2710 can be moved down toward the support column by thelift mechanism2752 to decrease the vertical distance between the display and thekeyboard2770.
• FIG. 35B is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2700B in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Theapparatus2700B provides similar functionality to theapparatus2700A inFIG. 35A, but does so without the need for a keyboard tray, analogous to theapparatus2100B illustrated inFIG. 28B.
• FIG. 36 is a side schematic view of apositioning apparatus2800 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepositioning apparatus2800 is similar to thepositioning apparatus2000 described with respect toFIG. 27. In addition, thepositioning apparatus2800 includes atelescoping riser2806 that is configured to provide thedisplay2810 and akeyboard tray2804 with vertical adjustability relative to a support member and operator.
• Thetelescoping riser2806 generally includes a first member that is slidingly received within a second member. As illustrated, thetelescoping riser2806 includes asupport column2832 and abracket2830 configured to receive thesupport column2832 in a sliding engagement. Thetelescoping riser2806 can be attached to or rested upon a support member via an attachment member (e.g., seeFIGS. 34-35) or a base (e.g., seeFIG. 37). Thesupport column2832 and thebracket2830 are movably coupled through a generally vertical range oftravel2834 relative to the support member and operator. In addition, althoughFIG. 36 illustrates the incorporation of a movement mechanism having a curved rail similar toFIG. 27, a similar telescoping configuration can be applied to each of the embodiments described herein.
• In some cases rollers, slides, and optionally a lift mechanism (e.g., any of those discussed herein) are provided to movably couple thesupport column2832 and thebracket2830. In this embodiment thebracket2830 is configured to support the display and keyboard tray. In some embodiments the orientation of theriser2806 may be rotated 180 degrees with thebracket2830 supported by to the support member and thesupport column2632 moving relative to the support member.
• FIG. 37 is a perspective view of apositioning apparatus2900 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepositioning apparatus2900 includes a movement mechanism (not shown), such as any one of those described above, for moving twodisplays2910 from a first generally horizontal viewing configuration to a second generally declining viewing configuration shown inFIG. 37. In the depicted embodiment, the twodisplays2910 are attached to a bow or crossbar (also not shown), which is in turn coupled to the riser with a movement mechanism for tilting the bow and thus thedisplays2910. Abase2915 is attached to the riser and supports the apparatus upon asupport member2901.FIG. 38 illustrates asimilar embodiment3000, which instead of a base includes anattachment member2917 for removably or fixedly attaching/clamping the apparatus about an edge of thesupport member2901.
• FIGS. 39A-39F are side schematic views of positioning apparatuses in accordance with additional embodiments of the invention. As discussed above, in some cases a riser configuration similar to that shown inFIGS. 34 and 35 can be adapted and used with any contemplated movement mechanism useful for moving and tilting a display as contemplated herein.FIGS. 39A-39F illustrate the use of a support column that moves through a vertical range of travel relative to a riser bracket and support member to support different examples of movement mechanisms.
• 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 toFIGS. 1A-13B.
• FIG. 1A is a side view of one example of apositioning apparatus1000.FIG. 1B is a side cross-section of thepositioning apparatus1000. Thepositioning apparatus1000 includes abase1002 and asupport column1004 extending upward from thebase1002. A mountingportion1006 is movably coupled to thesupport column1004 through a generally vertical range oftravel1008, allowing the mountingportion1006 to move up and down relative to thebase1002 and thesupport column1004. For example, in some cases alift mechanism1009 is provided that movably couples the mountingportion1006 and thesupport column1004. The mounting portion orframe1006 is adapted to support multiple pieces of equipment and in some cases is referred to as a common mounting frame. The mountingportion1006 is adapted to support equipment such as an electronic display and a keyboard and move them through the vertical range oftravel1008. In the example shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B, the mountingportion1006 includes anelectronic display mount1010 adapted to couple to and support an electronic display. In addition, the mountingportion1006 includes akeyboard tray1012 for supporting a keyboard.
• Thepositioning apparatus1000 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.
• Thebase1002 of thepositioning apparatus1000 is adapted to sit on a horizontal or generally horizontal work surface. In some cases thebase1002 may also be adapted to sit on a somewhat angled or inclined work surface. In the illustrated example, thebase1002 includes aclamp1020 for removably attaching thepositioning apparatus1000 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 mountingportion1006 illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B includes a frame to which theelectronic display mount1010 and thekeyboard tray1012 are attached. The frame may be formed in a variety of shapes. According to a preferred embodiment, the frame is configured to support thedisplay mount1010 and thekeyboard tray1012 in a spaced relationship, with thekeyboard tray1012 set apart from thedisplay mount1010 in order to allow an operator to comfortably use a keyboard on the tray while viewing a display mounted to the mount. For example, thekeyboard tray1012 may be attached to the frame at a generally lower and more forward position (closer to the operator) than thedisplay mount1010.
• Thedisplay mount1010 is attached to the mountingportion1006 in an adjustable manner. The mountingportion1006 includes asecondary lift mechanism1022 to which the display mount is attached. Thesecondary lift mechanism1022 provides an adjustable range of travel that allows the display mount1010 (and an attached electronic display) to be moved vertically relative to thekeyboard tray1012, which can be useful for providing monitor/keyboard arrangements for differently sized operators. Thedisplay mount1010 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.
• Thebase1002 of thepositioning apparatus1000 can encompass any structure that adequately supports thesupport column1004 and the mountingportion1006 upon a work surface. According to some embodiments, thebase1002 includes one or more stabilizing portions orlegs1030. As shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B, thebase1002 includes a first end and a second end with anelongated section1032 extending between the first and the second ends. The portions of theelongated section1032 are formed with a low profile, thus minimizing any obstruction caused by the base and maximizing the range of travel of the mountingportion1006. For example, in some cases a front portion of the base1002 in front of thesupport column1004 has a thickness of about 1 inch or less. In addition, thebase1002 can also include ahousing portion1034 that houses some or all of the apparatus'lift mechanism1009.
• In some cases theelongated section1032 of the base is generally parallel to a plane defined by movement of the mountingportion1006 through the vertical range of travel (e.g., the plane of cross-section inFIG. 1B). In such cases the base may be adapted to be attached (e.g., removably coupled) to the work surface at the first and/or second ends of the base in front of and/or behind the support column, respectively, from the perspective of an operator. Such a configuration can advantageously reduce the footprint of thebase1002 upon the work surface, thus leaving more room for other activities as well as reducing the visual impact of the positioning apparatus. In some cases thebase1002 includes aclamp1020 at the first end of the base that allows thebase1002 to be attached about a front edge of the work surface. Although not shown, a clamp may be provided at the second (e.g., back) end of thebase1002, allowing the base to be attached about a back edge of a work surface. In addition, the base may in some cases be configured to attach to one or more sides of a work surface through, for example, clamps located at the side of the base. In addition, theelongated section1032 of the base may be oriented in a direction perpendicular or otherwise angled to the plane including vertical movement of the mounting portion.
• Thesupport column1004 includes a separate component that is attached to thebase1002 using, e.g., mounting brackets or other hardware. Thesupport column1004 can be formed integrally with thebase1002. The support column and thebase1002 are attached/formed together at an angle other than 90 degrees (in some cases 90 degrees or less). For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B, thesupport column1004 extends upward from thebase1002 at anobtuse angle1040 with respect to the base1002 (and a work surface positioned below the base). Theobtuse angle1040 is useful for positioning the center of gravity of the display and/or other equipment carried by the positioning apparatus at a desired position with respect to thebase1002 to enhance stability. A range of angles may be used depending upon the design and intended use for a particular embodiment. In some cases theobtuse angle1040 is equal to or less than about 120 degrees. In some cases, theobtuse angle1040 is equal to or less than about 100 degrees.
• Thesupport column1004 can be dimensioned to provide the positioning apparatus with a vertical range oftravel1008 of any desired length, thus allowing the mountingportion1006 to be moved through a wide range of heights. As will be appreciated, in cases where thesupport column1004 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 oftravel1008. 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. Thelift mechanism1009 in the positioning apparatus may also provide multiple positions at intermediate heights between the lowest and highest extents of the range oftravel1008, 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 thelift mechanism1009 provides an infinite number of intermediate positions within the vertical range oftravel1008.
• Turning toFIGS. 2A-2C, perspective views are shown of positioning apparatuses with various mounting options. Although some preferred embodiments of the invention are configured to support an electronic display and a keyboard, some positioning apparatuses can be configured with a number of optional and/or alternative mounts and supports for attaching and otherwise supporting other items. For example, in some cases the mounting portion of a positioning apparatus can include at least one of an electronic display mount, a keyboard tray, a mouse tray, a document holder, a movable work surface, and a telephone holder. In some cases a positioning apparatus includes multiple display mounts for supporting two or more electronic displays such as computer monitors. A positioning apparatus may also optionally include a notebook tray and/or a notebook docking station instead of or in addition to other mounts and supports.
• FIG. 2A illustrates an example of apositioning apparatus1100 that includes a mountingportion1106 that has asingle display mount1110 and akeyboard tray1112. The mountingportion1106 also supports amouse tray1120 that is attached to thekeyboard tray1112. As shown inFIGS. 2B and 2C, a crossbar can also be attached to a mounting portion for attaching two or more items.FIG. 2B illustrates an example of apositioning apparatus1150 that includes a mountingportion1106 that has dual display mounts1110 mounted to acrossbar1152. Theapparatus1150 also includes akeyboard tray1112 and amouse tray1120.FIG. 2C illustrates an example of apositioning apparatus1176 that includes a mountingportion1106 that has asingle display mount1110 and anotebook tray1180 mounted to acrossbar1178. Theapparatus1150 also includes akeyboard tray1112 and amouse tray1120. As shown inFIGS. 2B and 2C, items can be mounted to a crossbar through various configurations, including a center mount (FIG. 2B) and/or a mount above the crossbar (FIG. 2C).
• FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the side cross-sectional view ofFIG. 1B, showing details of thekeyboard tray1012. The mountingportion1006 includes anextension arm1200 extending downward to couple with thekeyboard tray1012. The positioning apparatus thus enables positioning of thekeyboard tray1012 below the level of the existing work surface when the mounting portion is positioned at a lower height. (See, e.g.,FIGS. 12A and 13A.) Such adjustability can provide increased comfort for an operator by positioning the keyboard tray1012 (and the keyboard supported on the tray) in a more ergonomic relationship to the position of an attached electronic display. The mounting portion extends from above the horizontal work surface to below the horizontal work surface when the tray is in a downward position. This can also obscure the base from view.
• Thekeyboard tray1012 is attached to the mountingportion1006 with atilt mechanism1202 that allows an operator to adjust the tilt of thekeyboard tray1012 relative to the base and the work surface. For example, in some cases thetilt mechanism1202 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 mountingportion1006 also or alternatively includes a folding mechanism that allows thekeyboard tray1012 to be folded closer to thebase1002. 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.
• Thelift mechanism1009 that movably couples the mountingportion1006 to thesupport column1004 includes one ormore rails1210 attached to thesupport column1004 and a truck1212 (e.g., movable bracket) having wheels or sliders that engage the rails.FIGS. 4,5 and6 show enlarged cross-sectional views of thelift mechanism1009. In some cases thelift mechanism1009 is located partially within thesupport column1004 and partially within the base1002 (e.g., within the housing portion1034). Thelift mechanism1009 may also be located wholly within thesupport column1004, attached to an external surface of thesupport column1004, or otherwise mounted in a useful manner.
• Thelift mechanism1009 can also provide an operator with a degree of assistance to move the mountingportion1006 through the range oftravel1008. For example, in some embodiments anenergy storage member1214 such as an extension spring provides a biasing force that aids an operator in adjusting the height of the mountingportion1006. In some cases an extension spring member is adjustably mounted within thesupport column1004 using aretainer plug1230 and aweight adjustment screw1232 which can be turned to tighten and loosen the spring. Thelift mechanism1009 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 thelift mechanism1009 includes abalance mechanism1220 incorporating theenergy storage member1214 that can counterbalance some or all of the weight of an electronic display and/or other equipment supported by the mountingportion1006. As just one example, thelift mechanism1009 can incorporate a cam (e.g., a rotary cam)1222 that is coupled to theenergy storage member1214 and thetruck1212 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 PatentApplication Publication US 2006/0185563 A1, which application was filed Sep. 28, 2005, the entire contents of which is incorporated by reference herein. Thelift mechanism1009 includes a balance mechanism having a dual cam as described below with reference toFIGS. 14-26.
• 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 mountingportion1006 with thesupport column1004 to provide the vertical range oftravel1008 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.
• FIG. 6 includes an enlarged cross-sectional view of thesecondary lift mechanism1022 first shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B. Thesecondary lift mechanism1022 provides an adjustable range oftravel1300 that allows the display mount1010 (and an attached electronic display) to be moved vertically relative to the keyboard tray (not shown). For example, thelift mechanism1022 may in some cases provide from about 3 inches to about 8 inches of additional vertical adjustability. Thelift mechanism1022 can comprise any suitable design, including any of the examples described immediately above with respect to thelift mechanism1009. For example, thesecondary lift mechanism1022 may include a balance mechanism that can counterbalance some or all of the weight of the attached display through the range of travel. In some cases thesecondary lift mechanism1022 includes atruck1301 movably coupled with one or more rails providing a second range of vertical travel for the electronic display relative to the keyboard tray. Anenergy storage member1302 such as an extension spring can provide a biasing force that aids an operator in adjusting the height of thedisplay mount1010. In some cases the tension of theenergy storage member1302 can be adjusted with the use of a weight adjustment screw orbolt1304. In addition, thesecondary lift mechanism1022 can coupled with the mountingportion1006 in any suitable manner, such as being attached to an external surface of a frame of the mounting portion, or located within or partially within a columnar portion of the mountingportion1006.
• Thedisplay mount1010 is attached to the mountingportion1006 in one or more other adjustable manners. Thedisplay mount1010 attachment includes atilt mechanism1310 androtation mechanism1312 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 PatentApplication 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 toFIGS. 1A and 1B, thebase1002 of thepositioning apparatus1000 can be removably coupled to an existing work surface with the use of aclamp1020. Many types of clamps can be used to removably couple the positioning apparatus to a work surface.FIG. 7A is a perspective view of ascrew clamp1400 that provides a clamping mechanism having several advantages over traditional clamps, including providing a low profile clamp while still accommodating work surfaces a wide range of thicknesses with the same clamp.FIGS. 7B,7C,7D, and7E are top, front, bottom, and side views of thescrew clamp1400, respectively. Thescrew clamp1400 includes two clampingelements1402,1404 (e.g., U-shaped bend wires) that includeupper portions1412,1414 andlower portions1422,1424 that fit about the edge of awork surface1430 and can be adjusted to clamp to thework surface1430 by pressing together the bottom and top surfaces of thework surface1430. Thelower portions1422,1424 of the clamping elements are coupled together in a spaced relationship (e.g., with a bracket1432) such that theupper portions1412,1414 are able to pivot around the fixed lower portions to clamp about the edge of thework surface1430.
• Anadjustable screw1440 is threadedly coupled to the upper portions of the first and the second clamping elements. Turning thescrew1440 loosens and tightens theclamp1400 by pulling and pushing the upper portions of the clamping elements together and apart. A threadedinsert1442 is rotatably coupled to the upper portion of each clamping element through a slipfit hole1444. Theinsert1442 includes a threadedhole1446, oriented perpendicular to the slip fit hole, that receives an end of thescrew1440. In some cases anadjustment nut1450 is attached (e.g., welded or machined) to thescrew1440 to facilitate rotation of thescrew1440. Turning thenut1450 and thescrew1440 in a first direction moves theupper portions1412,1414 of the clamping elements apart to decrease the space between the upper and lower portions of theclamping elements1402,1404 and thus tighten theclamp1400 about the edge of thework surface1430. Turning thenut1450 and thescrew1440 in an opposite, second direction moves theupper portions1412,1414 of the clamping elements together to increase the space between the upper and lower portions of theclamping elements1402,1404 and thus loosen theclamp1400 about the edge of thework surface1430.Fixed bracket1432 can be placed on top of a work surface and the bracket is formed as part of thebase1032.
• FIGS. 8A-8E are various views of another type ofscrew clamp1500 that can be useful for removably coupling a positioning apparatus about the edge of a work surface. Thescrew clamp1500 includes two clampingelements1502,1504 (e.g., U-shaped bend wires) that includeupper portions1512,1514 andlower portions1522,1524 that fit about the edge of awork surface1530 and can be adjusted to clamp to thework surface1530. Theupper portions1512,1514 of the clamping elements are coupled together in a spaced relationship (e.g., with a bracket1532) such that thelower portions1522,1524 are able to pivot around the fixed upper portions to clamp about the edge of thework surface1530.
• Anadjustable screw1540 is threadedly coupled to the lower portions of the first and the second clamping elements. Turning thescrew1540 loosens and tightens theclamp1500 by pulling and pushing the lower portions of the clamping elements together and apart. A threadedinsert1542 is rotatably coupled to the lower portion of each clamping element. Theinsert1542 includes a threadedhole1546, oriented perpendicular to the lower portion, that receives an end of thescrew1540. In some cases anadjustment nut1550 is attached (e.g., welded or machined) to thescrew1540 to facilitate rotation of thescrew1540. In addition, in some cases anextrusion1560 is slidingly mounted to the threadedinserts1542 and provides a flat surface above the adjustable screw for engaging the bottom of the work surface. For example, each threadedinsert1542 may have a “T” shapedextension1562 that fits within aslot1564 of theextrusion1560. Turning thenut1450 and thescrew1540 in a first direction moves thelower portions1522,1524 of the clamping elements apart to decrease the space between the upper and lower portions of theclamping elements1502,1504 and thus tighten theextrusion1560 against the bottom of thework surface1530. Turning thenut1550 and thescrew1540 in an opposite, second direction moves thelower portions1522,1524 of the clamping elements together to increase the space between the upper and lower portions of theclamping elements1502,1504 and thus loosen theclamp1500 about the edge of thework surface1530. In somecases bracket1532 can be formed as an integral part of thebase1032.
• In addition to providing a relatively low profile above thework surface1530, thescrew clamp1500 shown inFIGS. 8A-8E also occupies a minimum area at the side of thework surface1530 since theadjustable screw1540 and theextrusion1560 are positioned below thework surface1530.
• FIGS. 9-11 are various views of a C-clamp1600 that can removably couple a positioning apparatus about the edge of a work surface according to some embodiments of the invention. The C-clamp1600 includes anupper bracket1602 coupled to alower bracket1604. In certain embodiments the upper and lower brackets each have two legs formed at a right angle, which allows the brackets to clamp about the edge of awork surface1630 by pressing on thetop surface1632 and thebottom surfaces1634 of thework surface1630. In addition, the lower bracket1604 (or alternatively the upper bracket) may include mountingslots1610 that provide an adjustable sliding engagement with the upper bracket such that theclamp1600 can be adjusted to attach to work surfaces of different thicknesses. For example, screws/bolts1612 can be inserted into the slots and paired with nuts to tighten together the upper and lower brackets. In some embodiments,upper leg1602 can be formed as part of thebase1032. In such embodiments, the base extends forward and bends downward at the edge of the work surface to form theupper leg1602.
• In certain embodiments, thelower bracket1604 can be coupled with theupper bracket1602 in more than one configuration in order to accommodate work surfaces with a greater range of thicknesses. Referring toFIG. 9, in some embodiments thelower bracket1604 includes afirst leg1620 and asecond leg1622, and the length of thefirst leg1620 is longer than the length of thesecond leg1622. Turning toFIG. 10A, the short/second leg1622 can be coupled with the upper bracket in some cases to clamp about work surfaces having a relatively small thickness. In certain cases the long/first leg1620 can be coupled with the upper bracket as shown inFIG. 10B in order to clamp about work surfaces having a greater thickness. Accordingly, the C-clamp1600 can be adjusted to attach a positioning apparatus to a wide variety of pre-existing work surfaces.
• Turning toFIG. 11, in some embodiments anadjustable pressure mechanism1650 can further enhance the operation of the C-clamp1600 by providing a tighter clamp about an edge of thework surface1630. For example, in some cases each of the first and the second legs of thelower bracket1604 is adapted to threadedly receive a threadedrod1660 of ascrew knob1662. The screw knob also includes awasher1664 or other engaging member that presses into thebottom surface1634 of thework surface1630 as thescrew knob1662 is turned. According to this embodiment, it is possible to use the same C-clamp1600 on a wide range of work surface thicknesses without using a screw knob having an extremely long threaded rod. Instead a screw knob having a shorter threaded rod can be used with additional adjustability provided by the various configurations of the upper andlower brackets1602,1604 and the adjustable coupling between the brackets. Accordingly, some embodiments provide asmall profile clamp1600 in which thescrew knob1662 sticks out a smaller amount when the clamp is mounted on a thinner desk surface.
• FIGS. 12A-13B illustrate various views of anexemplary positioning apparatus300 according to one embodiment of the invention.FIGS. 12A and 12B show thepositioning apparatus300 from in a lowered position and a raised position, respectively, from a front perspective. According to some embodiments of the invention, thepositioning apparatus300 is useful in applications in which a single operator may wish to both sit and stand while using the same monitor and/or notebook. For convenience, thepositioning apparatus300 can be described for such uses as a “sit-stand” positioning apparatus. Such sit-stand apparatuses can be useful in situations in which operators desire to perform operations in various postures, which may be required or desired to be performed at the same workstation. For example, one may desire to perform some operations in a seated position and other operations in a standing position. Applicants believe embodiments of the invention provide the first sit-stand positioning apparatus of its type to be compatible with an existing, independent work surface (e.g., a desk top, table top, counter top, etc.) to form a sit-stand workstation. The positioning apparatus allows an operator to use the workstation at multiple heights if desired without the need for separate work surfaces at multiple heights. Accordingly, an operator does not need to move to a different workstation, but can adjust the height of the sit-stand workstation and continue using the existing work station at the new height. Further, embodiments of the invention allow for relatively large ranges of travel while occupying a smaller footprint on a work surface where space is valuable, as will be discussed further herein.
• FIGS. 13A and 13B are rear perspective views of thepositioning apparatus300 in a lowered position and a raised position, respectively. Thepositioning apparatus300 supports an electronic display in the form of acomputer monitor302, in addition to anotebook computer304 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Thepositioning apparatus300 includes abase310 and a generallyvertical support column312 connected to thebase310. A movable mountingportion350 is movably coupled to thesupport column312 and attaches themonitor302 andnotebook304 to the apparatus. In some cases the mountingportion350 may also movably couple akeyboard tray355 to thesupport column312.
• Referring toFIGS. 13A and 13B, theapparatus300 can include acrossbar360 attached to the mountingportion350 for mounting various equipment. For example, in some cases a monitor mount362 (e.g., a standard VESA connector),notebook tray364, and/or other pieces of equipment are attached to thecrossbar360, allowing the mountingportion350 to support and move the monitor, notebook, and/or other equipment. It should be appreciated, however, that a wide variety of equipment can be moved by the mountingportion350. For example, the mountingportion350 could be adapted to support and move a combination of one or more monitors and/or notebooks or other equipment. In some cases, the mountingportion350 is adapted to support and move a combination of monitors and notebooks (e.g., two monitors and a notebook, three monitors and a notebook). In some cases, the mountingportion350 is adapted to support and move multiple monitors, such as sets of two, three, or four or more monitors. (SeeFIGS. 2A-2C for some examples of mounting options.)
• As shown inFIGS. 12A,12B,13A, and13B, thepositioning apparatus300 can provide a wide range of travel for the attached monitor and notebook. The height of the equipment (and mounting portion350) can be set to any one of an infinite number of heights within the range of travel.FIGS. 12A and 13A illustratepositioning apparatus300 in a low position (e.g., for sitting), whileFIGS. 12B and 13B illustratepositioning apparatus300 in a high position (e.g., for standing). To provide such adjustability for themonitor302 and thenotebook304, thepositioning apparatus300 may in some cases include a lift mechanism similar in respects to thelift mechanism116 described inFIGS. 14-16 herein after.FIGS. 13A and 13B illustratelift mechanism116 incorporated intopositioning apparatus300. As can be seen, thewheel pulley120, as well as first andsecond cams124,126, and pulley system130 (not shown) are positioned within thebase310. Theenergy storage member144, in this case an extension spring, is positioned within thesupport column312 and coupled between thesupport column312 and the remaining portion of the lift mechanism.
• The mountingportion350 can itself provide some degree of adjustability between attached components. For example, as shown inFIGS. 12A,12B,13A, and13B, in some cases a second lift mechanism is incorporated within or attached to the mountingportion350 as described above with respect toFIGS. 1A and 1B. This can advantageously allow, for example, thecrossbar360 and monitor302 and thenotebook304 to be height adjusted with respect to thekeyboard tray355 to accommodate different operators.
• In the example shown inFIGS. 12A and 12B, thesupport column312 is connected to the base310 at an angle, which is useful for positioning the center of gravity of themonitor302 andnotebook304 at a desired location with respect to the base310 to enhance stability. In some cases, thepositioning apparatus300 is advantageously adapted to be used with an existinghorizontal work surface316, such as a desk or table. For example,base310 may include multiple stabilizinglegs370 that hold theapparatus300 upright on thework surface316. In some cases base310 includes aclamp314 useful for securingpositioning apparatus300 to thehorizontal work surface316.
• 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 toFIGS. 12A-13B, thebase310 includes a first end and a second end with an elongated section extending between the first and the second ends. Portions of the elongated section are formed with a low profile, thus minimizing any obstruction caused by the base and maximizing the range of travel of the mountingportion350. In some cases the elongated section of thebase310 is generally parallel to the mountingportion350. In addition, in some cases the elongated section has a width approximately the same as a width of the mounting portion frame directly above the base and thesupport column312. Such a configuration can advantageously reduce the footprint of thebase1002 upon the work surface, thus leaving more room for other activities as well as reducing the visual impact of the positioning apparatus. For example, the widths of the elongated section of the base, the frame of the mounting portion, and thesupport column312 are equal to or less than about 5 inches. In some cases, the widths of the elongated section, the frame of the mounting portion, and thesupport column312 are equal to or less than a width of an electronic display mount (e.g., a VESA mount) attached to the mounting portion.
• Referring toFIGS. 12A-13B, one exemplary method for positioning an electronic display and a keyboard involves selecting an existing generallyhorizontal work surface316 and providing a positioning apparatus such as thepositioning apparatus300. In some cases the positioning apparatus has a base310 adapted to sit on thework surface316, asupport column312 extending upward from thebase310, and a mountingportion350 movably coupled to thesupport column312 through a vertical range of travel relative to thework surface316. The method also includes attaching thepositioning apparatus300 to thework surface316 and supporting anelectronic display302 and a keyboard with the mountingportion350 of the apparatus. The method also includes moving the mountingportion350 between a sitting position (e.g.,FIG. 12A) and a standing position (e.g.,FIG. 12B) relative to thework surface316.
• Positioning methods also include moving theelectronic display302 simultaneously with the keyboard (e.g., on the keyboard tray355). In addition, one exemplary method also includes moving theelectronic display302 with respect to the keyboard. An operator may also adjust an angle of the keyboard and/or the electronic display relative to thework surface316 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 thework surface316.
• 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 toFIGS. 14-26, an example including a lift/balance mechanism116 incorporating the use of a dual surface cam is described.
• FIG. 14 is an elevation view of one example of anapparatus100.Apparatus100 ofFIG. 14 comprises abase102 and a generallyvertical support column106 connected to thebase102, similar to examples described above with respect toFIGS. 1-13B. The base may include any structure for supporting the apparatus. The base may include a relatively flat horizontal surface useful for placement on a horizontal work surface or may include a clamp to clamp the apparatus to a horizontal surface or a wall bracket to attach the apparatus to a vertical wall. The support can be connected to the base by any suitable method. In some cases the support is pivotably connected to the base such that the support can pivot with respect to the base. In the example shown inFIG. 14, the support is connected to the base at an angle. The angle is useful for positioning the center of gravity of the monitor or other equipment carried by the support at a desired position with respect to the base to enhance stability.
• Portions of abalance mechanism116 can also be seen inFIG. 14. As will be described in more detail herein, the portions of the balance mechanism shown inFIG. 14 include awheel pulley120, afirst cam124 and asecond cam126, and apulley system130.
• FIG. 15 is a partially exploded version ofFIG. 14. InFIG. 15, it can be seen that the generallyvertical support column106 includes afirst portion136 and asecond portion140. As shown inFIG. 17, once fully assembled, a movable portion150 (e.g., sometimes referred to as a bracket or truck) is coupled to thesecond portion140. As discussed earlier herein with respect toFIGS. 28A-B, thesupport column106, including the first and the second portions, and themovable portion150 or bracket form a riser that provides a positioning apparatus with a range of adjustability. For example,movable portion150 andsecond portion140 are disposed in sliding engagement with one another such that the movable portion can translate with respect tosecond portion140. Thesecond portion140 may includerails141 and themovable portion150 may include wheels that roll along the rails. In general,first portion136 andsecond portion140 are connected to base102, and themovable portion150 is connected to one or more monitors and/or other computing equipment that translate along with themovable portion150 with respect to first andsecond portions136,140. For example, themovable portion150 may be coupled to or integrally include a mounting portion as discussed above with respect toFIGS. 1A and 1B. As shown inFIG. 15, anenergy storage member144 is coupled tosecond portion140.Energy storage member144 may include any device useful for storing potential energy, such as a spring (e.g., an extension spring, compression spring, torsion spring, etc.). The energy storage member may be adjustable by an energy storage member adjustment mechanism146 (e.g., a threaded bolt with a bracket that changes the effective at rest length of the energy storage member when actuated).
• Thebalance mechanism116 provides a balancing force between the first and second portions of the support column and themovable portion150, 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 inFIGS. 14 and 15, thewheel pulley120 is coupled tofirst cam124 andsecond cam126, which rotate along with rotation of the wheel. As shown,first cam124 andsecond cam126 can be provided as a single integral cam member. In addition, the wheel pulley and cam member may be provided as different pieces connected directly together throughaxle121. In another example, they may be integrally formed or separated by a distance when installed.FIGS. 19A,19B, and20 provide perspective and side elevation views of a cam member including both first andsecond cams124,126.FIGS. 21 and 22 provide perspective and side elevation views ofwheel pulley120.
• FIGS. 16A and 16B provide other perspective views of thebalance mechanism116, illustrating an arrangement ofwheel pulley120, first andsecond cams124,126, apulley system130, andenergy storage member144. In this case the first andsecond cams124,126 are directly coupled to theenergy storage member144 via one or more flexible elements (sometimes referred to as a tension or tensile member) that are routed aroundpulley system130. The flexible element can be a rope or cable and can include any material useful for transmitting force, such as a tensile polymer. Referring toFIG. 16B, in some casesfirst cam124 andsecond cam126 are coupled indirectly to theenergy storage member144 via thepulley system130.FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate one embodiment ofpulley system130, which includes cam pulleys164,168, and an energystorage member pulley160 coupled to the cam pulleys. As shown, the energy storage member pulley and the cam pulleys are provided in a single piece construction.
• In some cases each of the first andsecond cams124,126 are coupled to one of the cam pulleys164,168 with an independent, separate flexible element, while energystorage member pulley160 is coupled to theenergy storage member144 via a separate flexible element. Referring toFIG. 24, in some cases thepulley system130 includes a throughhole131, through which a singleflexible element132 can be threaded and then coupled to thecams124,126, one at each end. Such an arrangement is illustrated inFIG. 16B. As the cams rotate and pull (or loosen)flexible element132, theflexible element132 engages with the cam pulleys, and is unwound from (or wound around, respectively) each of the cam pulleys.
• In one case thewheel pulley120 is coupled to themovable portion150 of the support with anotherflexible element135 such thatwheel pulley120 rotates with respect to the base102 as themovable portion150 moves with respect to the support. As shown inFIGS. 15 and 16B, an additionaldirection changing pulley134 can direct theflexible element135 between thewheel pulley120 and themovable portion150. Turning toFIG. 17, the direction offlexible element135 is again changed byupper pulley138 andflexible element135 is coupled to themovable portion150 using ahook139 or another similar device known in the art.
• FIG. 18 is a partial perspective view of a bottom portion of theapparatus100, depicting thebalance mechanism116. As discussed above, energystorage member pulley160 is coupled to theenergy storage member144 via a separateflexible element161. In some cases theenergy storage member144 includes ahook162 that allows for easily coupling theflexible element161 tomember144.Member144 is positioned withinsupport column106 such thathook162 is generally aligned with the outer edge ofpulley system130, and specifically with energystorage member pulley160. In the example shown, as energystorage member pulley160 rotates, it winds or unwinds theflexible element161, allowingenergy storage member144 to contract and extend. Accordingly, the force or weight ofmovable portion150 of the support, as well as any equipment coupled thereto, can be offset and balanced by the energy storage member, through the transmission and redirection of force through the flexible elements, pulleys, and cams toenergy storage member144.
• FIGS. 19A and 19B provide perspective views, andFIG. 19C is a side view of acam member200 incorporating first andsecond cams124,126. As shown,first cam124 andsecond cam126 can be incorporated into the singleintegral cam member200 in some cases, though this is not a requirement and the invention is not intended to be limited to this example. The first and second cams are cooperatively shaped and positioned so that a torque applied towheel pulley120 by a flexible element is substantially constant while a force applied towheel120 by the flexible element varies. For example, the effective radius of eachcam124,126 varies as a function of the angular orientation ofwheel120. Also, the effective radius of each cam member may vary as a function of the displacement of an energy storage member of the balance mechanism. In some cases the twocams124,126 are mirror images of each other, and have the same profile of radius variation as a function of rotation. As shown inFIG. 6B, thecams124,126 each include acamming surface125,127 upon which the flexible elements wind.Cams124,126 are each designed to balance half of the weight of themovable portion150 and any attached equipment, which can decrease stress and fatigue on the flexible elements and increase the life of the apparatus.
• In use, when an operator desires to change the position of a monitor or other device supported by theapparatus300, the operator can apply a force to the monitor and/or notebook. Movement of the monitor causes the mountingportion350 of the support, to which it is attached, to also move relative to thesupport column312 of the apparatus.FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a portion of thebalance mechanism116 in a state corresponding to the low position of mountingportion350, whileFIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion ofbalance mechanism116 in a state corresponding to the high position of mountingportion350. As is shown, the mountingportion350 is attached to thewheel pulley120 viaflexible element135, so that movement of the monitor/notebook causes thewheel120 to turn about its axis. The first andsecond cams124,126, which are attached to thewheel120, also rotate and cause the cam pulleys164,168 and energystorage member pulley160 to rotate about their respective axes (which in this case are the same axis). Rotation of the energy storagemember pulley member160 pulls or loosensflexible element161, causing theenergy storage member144 to contract or allowing the member to expand in length. Since the shape of thecams124,126 are designed to accommodate a changing energy storage member force (e.g., based on spring length), the operator only need apply a relatively constant force to overcome friction to move the monitor to any desired position, and the monitor will stay in the desired position without having to lock it into that positions.
• 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 (20)

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 ofclaim 1, wherein the maximum backward tilt in the first position is about 20 degrees.

3. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the display mount is a greater distance from the riser in the second position than in the first position.

4. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the display mount is substantially the same distance from the riser in the second position and the first position.

5. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the display mount is adapted to support a touchsensitive electronic display of a tablet computer.

6. The apparatus ofclaim 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 ofclaim 6, wherein the movement mechanism further comprises a display lift mechanism coupled between the pivot and the display mount.

8. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the second position is lower relative to the riser than the first position.

9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the second position is higher relative to the riser than the first position.

10. The apparatus ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 11, wherein the maximum backward tilt in the second position is at least thirty degrees.

14. The apparatus ofclaim 11, wherein the maximum backward tilt in the first position is less than about twenty degrees.

15. The apparatus ofclaim 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 ofclaim 11, wherein the movement mechanism includes a pivoting arm.

17. The apparatus ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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.

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