U.S. patent application number 16/004167 was filed with the patent office on 2019-12-12 for apparatus and method for a sit-stand workstation.
The applicant listed for this patent is Health Postures, LLC. Invention is credited to Jared L. Elliott.
Application Number | 20190374024 16/004167 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 68765336 |
Filed Date | 2019-12-12 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190374024 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Elliott; Jared L. |
December 12, 2019 |
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A SIT-STAND WORKSTATION
Abstract
The present invention provides methods and a workstation that
includes a work table, wherein the work table includes: a first
work surface and a second work surface, wherein the second work
surface is configured to have vertical movement such that the
second work surface can be selectively placed in a first plurality
of vertical positions relative to the first work surface, and a
first motor operatively coupled to the second work surface and
configured to power the vertical movement of the second work
surface; and a plurality of legs coupled to the work table, wherein
the plurality of legs is configured to support the work table above
a ground surface, and wherein the plurality of legs includes a lift
mechanism configured to raise and lower the plurality of legs such
that the work table can be selectively placed in a plurality of
height configurations relative to the ground surface.
Inventors: |
Elliott; Jared L.; (Prior
Lake, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Health Postures, LLC |
Prior Lake |
MN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
68765336 |
Appl. No.: |
16/004167 |
Filed: |
June 8, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 2200/0062 20130101;
A47B 13/088 20130101; A47B 2009/185 20130101; A47B 2009/006
20130101; A47B 13/081 20130101; A47B 21/02 20130101; A47B 2200/0056
20130101; A47B 9/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47B 21/02 20060101
A47B021/02; A47B 9/00 20060101 A47B009/00; A47B 13/08 20060101
A47B013/08 |
Claims
1. A workstation comprising: a work table, wherein the work table
includes: a plurality of work surfaces including a first work
surface and a second work surface, wherein the second work surface
is configured to have vertical movement relative to the first work
surface such that the second work surface can be selectively placed
in a first plurality of vertical positions relative to the first
work surface, and a first motor operatively coupled to the second
work surface and configured to power the vertical movement of the
second work surface; and a plurality of legs coupled to the work
table, wherein the plurality of legs is configured to support the
work table above a ground surface, and wherein the plurality of
legs includes a lift mechanism configured to increase or decrease a
vertical extent of the plurality of legs such that the work table
can be selectively placed in a plurality of height configurations
relative to the ground surface.
2. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of
vertical positions of the second work surface includes a lowest
vertical position, and wherein the second work surface is flush
with the first work surface when the second work surface is in the
lowest vertical position.
3. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the plurality of work
surfaces further includes a third work surface that is in an
offset-height configuration relative to the first work surface.
4. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the plurality of work
surfaces further includes a third work surface that is in an
offset-height configuration relative to the first work surface,
wherein the first plurality of vertical positions of the second
work surface includes a lowest vertical position, and wherein the
second work surface is flush with the third work surface when the
second work surface is in the lowest vertical position.
5. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the plurality of work
surfaces further includes a third work surface, wherein the third
work surface is configured to have vertical movement such that the
third work surface can be selectively placed in a second plurality
of vertical positions relative to the first work surface, and
wherein the first motor is further configured to power the vertical
movement of the third work surface such that the vertical movement
of the third work surface is simultaneous with the vertical
movement of the second work surface.
6. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the plurality of work
surfaces further includes a third work surface, wherein the third
work surface is configured to have vertical movement such that the
third work surface can be selectively placed in a second plurality
of vertical positions relative to the first work surface, the work
table further including: a second motor operatively coupled to the
third work surface and configured to power the vertical movement of
the third work surface such that the vertical movement of the third
work surface is independent of the vertical movement of the second
work surface.
7. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the plurality of work
surfaces further includes a third work surface, wherein the third
work surface is configured to have vertical movement such that the
third work surface can be selectively placed in a second plurality
of vertical positions relative to the first work surface, wherein
the second work surface is flush with the third work surface and in
an offset-height configuration relative to the first work surface
when both the first work surface and the second work surface are in
a lowest vertical position.
8. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the plurality of legs
includes a first leg coupled to a first side of the work table and
a second leg coupled to a second side of the work table, the
workstation further comprising: a horizontal bracket coupled
between the first leg and the second leg in order to provide
side-to-side stabilization for the workstation.
9. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the work table further
includes an operator switch configured to provide user control for
the first motor.
10. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the work table further
includes: a first operator switch configured to provide user
control for the first motor, and a second operator switch
configured to provide user control for the lift mechanism of the
plurality of legs.
11. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of
vertical positions of the second work surface includes a lowest
vertical position, wherein the second work surface is flush with
the first work surface when the second work surface is in the
lowest vertical position, and wherein the work table further
includes an operator switch configured to provide user control for
the first motor.
12. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of
vertical positions of the second work surface includes a lowest
vertical position, wherein the second work surface is flush with
the first work surface when the second work surface is in the
lowest vertical position, wherein the plurality of legs includes a
first leg coupled to a first side of the work table and a second
leg coupled to a second side of the work table, the workstation
further comprising: a horizontal bracket coupled between the first
leg and the second leg in order to provide side-to-side
stabilization for the workstation.
13. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the plurality of work
surfaces further includes a third work surface that is in an
offset-height configuration relative to the first work surface,
wherein the plurality of legs includes a first leg coupled to a
first side of the work table and a second leg coupled to a second
side of the work table, the workstation further comprising: a
horizontal bracket coupled between the first leg and the second leg
in order to provide side-to-side stabilization for the
workstation.
14. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the plurality of work
surfaces further includes a third work surface, wherein the third
work surface is configured to have vertical movement such that the
third work surface can be selectively placed in a second plurality
of vertical positions relative to the first work surface, the work
table further including: a second motor operatively coupled to the
third work surface and configured to power the vertical movement of
the third work surface such that the vertical movement of the third
work surface is independent of the vertical movement of the second
work surface, a first operator switch configured to provide user
control for the first motor, a second operator switch configured to
provide user control for the second motor, and a third operator
switch configured to provide user control for the lift mechanism of
the plurality of legs.
15. A method for forming a workstation comprising: providing a work
table that includes a plurality of work surfaces including a first
work surface and a second work surface, wherein the second work
surface is configured to have vertical movement relative to the
first work surface such that the second work surface can be
selectively placed in a first plurality of vertical positions
relative to the first work surface; providing a first motor;
operatively coupling the first motor to the second work surface in
order to provide power for the vertical movement of the second work
surface; providing a plurality of legs; and coupling the plurality
of legs to the work table, wherein the plurality of legs supports
the work table above a ground surface, and wherein the plurality of
legs includes a lift mechanism configured to increase or decrease a
vertical extent of the plurality of legs such that the work table
can be selectively placed in a plurality of height configurations
relative to the ground surface.
16. The method of claim 16, wherein the plurality of work surfaces
further includes a third work surface, wherein the third work
surface is configured to have vertical movement such that the third
work surface can be selectively placed in a second plurality of
vertical positions relative to the first work surface, the method
further comprising: providing a second motor; and operatively
coupling the second motor to the third work surface in order to
provide power for the vertical movement of the third work surface
such that the vertical movement of the third work surface is
independent of the vertical movement of the second work
surface.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the plurality of work surfaces
further includes a third work surface, wherein the third work
surface is configured to have vertical movement such that the third
work surface can be selectively placed in a second plurality of
vertical positions relative to the first work surface, the method
further comprising: operatively coupling the first motor to the
third work surface in order to provide power for the vertical
movement of the third work surface such that the vertical movement
of the third work surface is simultaneous with the vertical
movement of the second work surface.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein the plurality of legs includes
a first leg and a second leg, wherein the coupling of the plurality
of legs to the work table includes attaching the first leg to a
first side of the work table and attaching the second leg to a
second side of the work table, the method further comprising:
providing a horizontal bracket; and connecting the horizontal
bracket between the first leg and the second leg in order to
provide side-to-side stabilization for the workstation.
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising: providing an
operator switch; electrically connecting the operator switch to the
first motor in order to provide user control for the first motor;
and attaching the operator switch to the work table.
20. An apparatus comprising: a work table that includes a plurality
of work surfaces; means for raising and lowering at least one of
the plurality of work surfaces relative to another one of the
plurality of work surfaces; and means for supporting the work table
above a ground surface, wherein the means for supporting the work
table includes means for changing a height of the means for
supporting.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to devices and methods for
workstations, and in particular to apparatuses and methods for a
workstation that has an overall height adjustment, as well as
independent surface-height adjustments, in order to provide a user
with a plurality of sitting and standing positions when using the
workstation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] U.S. Pat. No. 9,049,923 by Nico Vincent Delagey, et al.,
titled "POWERED HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DESKTOP," issued on Jun. 9, 2015
(hereinafter, "Delagey et al."), and is incorporated herein by
reference. Delagey et al. describe a powered height adjustable
desktop having a base with a fixed peripheral wall defining a
cavity and a cover defining a horizontal work surface. A lift
mechanism supports the cover relative to the base. The lift
mechanism includes a linkage with at least one pair of lift arms
pivotably connecting each side of the base to a respective side of
the cover and a powered actuator attached to the base and
operatively connected to the linkage. The actuator selectively
activates the linkage to rotate the lift arms from a relatively
horizontal position to at least one substantially fixed upright
position, thereby raising the work surface from a sitting height to
a standing height. At the sitting height, the cover rests upon the
peripheral wall to fully enclose the cavity. At the standing
height, the cover is spaced above and offset forward of the
base.
[0003] U.S. Pat. No. 9,332,839 by John Frederick Ringlein, titled
"DESK MOUNTED VERTICALLY ADJUSTABLE STAND UP DESK," issued on May
10, 2016 (hereinafter, "Ringlein"), and is incorporated herein by
reference. Ringlein describes a desk mounted vertically adjustable
stand up desk that allows a conventional desk to be easily and
quickly converted to a stand up desk for the user. The desk mounted
vertically adjustable stand up desk includes a base plate adapted
to be supported on a desk surface; a tower vertically extending
from the base plate; a stand up desk surface member moveably
mounted on the tower and configured to be vertically adjustable
relative to the base plate; and a lock member coupled to the tower
and configured to secure the stand up desk surface member in a
desired user selected vertical position.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 9,486,070 by Jean-Paul Labrosse, et al.,
titled "HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE SUPPORT SURFACE AND SYSTEM FOR
ENCOURAGING HUMAN MOVEMENT AND PROMOTING WELLNESS," issued on Nov.
8, 2016 (hereinafter, "Labrosse et al."), and is incorporated
herein by reference. Labrosse et al. describe a sit/stand
workstation that includes a worktop that includes a powered drive
and is moveable between a sitting height and a standing height.
During use, a controller moves the worktop up and down following a
user-defined schedule and uses sensors, such as a pressure mat, to
detect how well the user follows the schedule and biometric
indicators that convey fatigue and user energy level. In response
to this monitored user information, the controller changes time,
duration, and/or frequency of the schedule to better meet the
abilities and fitness of the user and also to help encourage the
user to continue regular use of both sitting height and standing
height workstation positions. Sounds, voice, lights, colors, and
numerical information are used to help encourage the user in use of
the sit/stand workstation.
[0005] There is a need for an improved system and method for a
sit-stand workstation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides a workstation that includes a
work table, wherein the work table includes: a plurality of work
surfaces including a first work surface and a second work surface,
wherein the second work surface is configured to have vertical
movement such that the second work surface can be selectively
placed in a first plurality of vertical positions relative to the
first work surface, and a first motor operatively coupled to the
second work surface and configured to power the vertical movement
of the second work surface; and a plurality of legs coupled to the
work table, wherein the plurality of legs is configured to support
the work table above a ground surface, and wherein the plurality of
legs includes a lift mechanism configured to raise and lower the
plurality of legs such that the work table can be selectively
placed in a plurality of height configurations relative to the
ground surface.
[0007] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method
for forming a workstation that includes providing a work table that
includes a plurality of work surfaces including a first work
surface and a second work surface, wherein the second work surface
is configured to have vertical movement such that the second work
surface can be selectively placed in a first plurality of vertical
positions relative to the first work surface; providing a first
motor; operatively coupling the first motor to the second work
surface in order to provide power for the vertical movement of the
second work surface; providing a plurality of legs; and coupling
the plurality of legs to the work table, wherein the plurality of
legs supports the work table above a ground surface, and wherein
the plurality of legs includes a lift mechanism configured to raise
and lower the plurality of legs such that the work table can be
selectively placed in a plurality of height configurations relative
to the ground surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0008] FIG. 1A-1 is a perspective view of a sit-stand workstation
101, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0009] FIG. 1A-2 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 101
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0010] FIG. 1A-3 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0011] FIG. 1A-4 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0012] FIG. 1B-1 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 1B-2 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 1B-3 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0015] FIG. 1B-4 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0016] FIG. 1C-1 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 1C-2 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 1C-3 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0019] FIG. 1C-4 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 1D-1 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 1D-2 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 1D-3 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0023] FIG. 1D-4 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 1E-1 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 1E-2 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 1E-3 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0027] FIG. 1E-4 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0028] FIG. 1E-5 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position and showing
various dimensions for workstation 101, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 1E-6 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position, adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, and showing various dimensions for workstation
101, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 1E-7 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position and showing various
dimensions for workstation 101, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 1F is a plan view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 1G is a bottom view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 2A-1 is a perspective view of a sit-stand workstation
201, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 2A-2 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 201
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 2A-3 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0036] FIG. 2A-4 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0037] FIG. 2B-1 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 2B-2 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 2B-3 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0040] FIG. 2B-4 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0041] FIG. 2C-1 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 2C-2 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 2C-3 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0044] FIG. 2C-4 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0045] FIG. 2D-1 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 2D-2 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 2D-3 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0048] FIG. 2D-4 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0049] FIG. 2E-1 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 2E-2 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with adjustable surface 140 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0051] FIG. 2E-3 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0052] FIG. 2E-4 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0053] FIG. 2F is a plan view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0054] FIG. 2G is a bottom view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0055] FIG. 3A-1 is a perspective view of a sit-stand workstation
301, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0056] FIG. 3A-2 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 301
with adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0057] FIG. 3A-3 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0058] FIG. 3A-4 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0059] FIG. 3B-1 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0060] FIG. 3B-2 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position, according
to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0061] FIG. 3B-3 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1 and
335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
[0062] FIG. 3B-4 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1 and
335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
[0063] FIG. 3B-5 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 335.1 in a
first raised position and adjustable surface 335.2 in a second
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0064] FIG. 3C-1 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0065] FIG. 3C-2 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position, according
to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0066] FIG. 3C-3 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1 and
335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
[0067] FIG. 3C-4 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1 and
335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
[0068] FIG. 3D-1 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0069] FIG. 3D-2 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0070] FIG. 3D-3 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0071] FIG. 3D-4 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0072] FIG. 3E-1 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0073] FIG. 3E-2 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0074] FIG. 3E-3 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0075] FIG. 3E-4 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0076] FIG. 3F is a plan view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0077] FIG. 3G is a bottom view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0078] FIG. 4A is a bottom view of a sit-stand workstation 401,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0079] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a portion of workstation
401 showing the right leg 110 and right foot 415 (with
perpendicular wing 416), according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0080] Although the following detailed description contains many
specifics for the purpose of illustration, a person of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and
alterations to the following details are within the scope of the
invention. Specific examples are used to illustrate particular
embodiments; however, the invention described in the claims is not
intended to be limited to only these examples, but rather includes
the full scope of the attached claims. Accordingly, the following
preferred embodiments of the invention are set forth without any
loss of generality to, and without imposing limitations upon the
claimed invention. Further, in the following detailed description
of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying
drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of
illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be
practiced. It is understood that other embodiments may be utilized
and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope
of the present invention.
[0081] It is specifically contemplated that the present invention
includes embodiments having combinations and subcombinations of the
various embodiments and features that are individually described
herein (i.e., rather than listing every combinatorial of the
elements, this specification includes descriptions of
representative embodiments and contemplates embodiments that
include some of the features from one embodiment combined with some
of the features of another embodiment, including embodiments that
include some of the features from one embodiment combined with some
of the features of embodiments described in the patents and
application publications incorporated by reference in the present
application). Further, some embodiments include fewer than all the
components described as part of any one of the embodiments
described herein.
[0082] The leading digit(s) of reference numbers appearing in the
Figures generally corresponds to the Figure number in which that
component is first introduced, such that the same reference number
is used throughout to refer to an identical component which appears
in multiple Figures. Signals and connections may be referred to by
the same reference number or label, and the actual meaning will be
clear from its use in the context of the description.
[0083] Certain marks referenced herein may be common-law or
registered trademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated
with the applicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is for
providing an enabling disclosure by way of example and shall not be
construed to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter to
material associated with such marks.
[0084] FIG. 1A-1 is a perspective view of a sit-stand workstation
101, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In
some embodiments, workstation 101 includes a plurality of
height-adjustable legs 110 (e.g., in some embodiments, a first leg
110 and a second leg 110), where the top of each leg 110 is coupled
to work table 130, and where each respective leg 110 is coupled to
a respective foot 115. In some embodiments, workstation 101
includes a stabilizing bracket 120 coupled between the first leg
110 and the second leg 110 in order to provide horizontal
(side-to-side) stabilization to workstation 101. In some
embodiments, legs 110 and bracket 120 are made from a material that
includes powder-coated steel.
[0085] In some embodiments, work table 130 includes a plurality of
work surfaces 131, 132, and 135 coupled to metal framing (e.g., in
some embodiments, the metal framing includes powder-coated steel).
In some embodiments, work surfaces 131, 132, and 135 each include
medium-density fiberboard (MDF) with a heat-shrink vinyl wrap. In
some embodiments, work surfaces 131 and 132 are in a tiered (i.e.,
offset-height) configuration relative to each other. In some
embodiments, work surface 131 is at a first height relative to the
top of legs 110 and work surface 132 is at a second height relative
to the top of legs 110 (in some such embodiments, the first height
and the second height relative to the top of legs 110 cannot be
adjusted and thus work surface 131 and work surface 132 are
stationary relative to each other and relative to the top of legs
110; in other embodiments, not shown, work surface 131 and work
surface 132 can be adjusted relative to one another). In some
embodiments, work surface 135 can be placed in a plurality of
vertical positions that range from the second height relative to
the top of legs 110 to a third height relative to the top of legs
110, where the third height is higher than the first and second
heights. In some embodiments, workstation 101 is designed to be
used with a computer system where the monitor or monitors of the
computer system are placed on adjustable work surface 135 such that
the height of the monitor(s) can be adjusted to the user's
preference. In some embodiments, adjustable work surface 135 has a
range of motion of about six (6) inches (in some embodiments, a
range of motion of about two (2) inches, about four (4) inches,
about eight (8) inches, about twelve (12) inches, or any other
suitable range).
[0086] In some embodiments, workstation 101 includes a switch 145
configured to provide control for the height-adjustable work
surface 135 (e.g., in some embodiments, switch 145 has an "UP"
position such that work surface 135 is raised when switch 145 is
held in the "UP" position, and switch 145 includes a "DOWN"
position such that work surface 135 is lowered when switch 145 is
held in the "DOWN" position). In some embodiments, workstation 101
further includes a controller 146 configured to provide control for
the height-adjustable legs 110. In some embodiments, controller 146
provides control for both the height-adjustable legs 110 and the
height-adjustable work surface 135 (in some such embodiments,
workstation 101 does not include switch 145).
[0087] In some embodiments, legs 110 are a lift-leg system such as
the Bold table base provided by OMT-Veyhl USA Corporation
(www.omt-veyhl.com/product/bold/). In some embodiments, the top of
legs 110 has an adjustable height above the ground that ranges from
about twenty-two (22) inches to about forty-eight (48) inches.
[0088] FIG. 1A-2 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 101
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0089] FIG. 1A-3 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0090] FIG. 1A-4 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention. In some embodiments, adjustable surface 135 is coupled
to support beam 136.
[0091] FIG. 1B-1 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some
embodiments, workstation 101 includes an electrical motor system
138 configured to vertically move support beam 136 and adjustable
surface 135 such that adjustable surface 135 can be placed in a
plurality of vertical positions. In some such embodiments,
electrical motor system 138 includes an electrical motor having a
nominal voltage of 24 volts direct current (VDC), a nominal torque
of 2 Newton meters (Nm), a starting torque of 14 Nm, a no-load
speed of 150 revolutions-per-minute (rpm), and a gear ratio of
62:1, such as provided by Power Electric Corporation
(www.powerelectric.com/dc-electric-motors/). In some such
embodiments, the electrical motor powers the movement of surface
135 via a threaded rod contained within support beam 136 and
operatively coupled to the electric motor.
[0092] FIG. 1B-2 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0093] FIG. 1B-3 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0094] FIG. 1B-4 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0095] FIG. 1C-1 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0096] FIG. 1C-2 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0097] FIG. 1C-3 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0098] FIG. 1C-4 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0099] FIG. 1D-1 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0100] FIG. 1D-2 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0101] FIG. 1D-3 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0102] FIG. 1D-4 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0103] FIG. 1E-1 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0104] FIG. 1E-2 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0105] FIG. 1E-3 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0106] FIG. 1E-4 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0107] FIG. 1E-5 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position and showing
various dimensions for workstation 101, according to some
embodiments of the present invention. For example, in some
embodiments, the height of work surface 131 above the ground when
legs 110 are in their fully-extended position is forty-six (46)
inches or about 116 centimeters (cm), and the height of adjustable
work surface 135 above work surface 132 when adjustable work
surface 135 is in its fully-extended position is six (6) inches or
about fifteen (15) cm.
[0108] FIG. 1E-6 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 101
with legs 110 in a shortened position, adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, and showing various dimensions for workstation
101, according to some embodiments of the present invention. For
example, in some embodiments, the height of work surface 131 above
the ground when legs 110 are in their fully-shortened position is
nineteen (19) inches or about 48 centimeters (cm).
[0109] FIG. 1E-7 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 101 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position and showing various
dimensions for workstation 101, according to some embodiments of
the present invention. For example, in some embodiments, the width
of adjustable work surface 135 is thirty-nine-and-a-half (39.50)
inches or about 100 centimeters (cm), and the width of work
surfaces 131 and 132 is sixty (60) inches or about 152 cm.
[0110] FIG. 1F is a plan view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0111] FIG. 1G is a bottom view of sit-stand workstation 101,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0112] FIG. 2A-1 is a perspective view of a sit-stand workstation
201, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In
some embodiments, workstation 201 is substantially similar to
workstation 101 except that work table 230 replaces work table 130
of workstation 101. In some embodiments, work table 230 includes
work surface 231 instead of the tiered work surfaces 131 and 132 of
work table 130 (in some such embodiments, work table 230 further
includes adjustable work surface 135). In some embodiments, work
surface 231 is stationary relative to the top of legs 110.
[0113] FIG. 2A-2 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 201
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0114] FIG. 2A-3 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0115] FIG. 2A-4 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0116] FIG. 2B-1 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0117] FIG. 2B-2 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0118] FIG. 2B-3 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0119] FIG. 2B-4 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0120] FIG. 2C-1 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0121] FIG. 2C-2 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0122] FIG. 2C-3 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0123] FIG. 2C-4 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 201 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in a
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0124] FIG. 2D-1 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0125] FIG. 2D-2 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with adjustable surface 135 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0126] FIG. 2D-3 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0127] FIG. 2D-4 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0128] FIG. 2E-1 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0129] FIG. 2E-2 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with adjustable surface 140 in a raised position, according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0130] FIG. 2E-3 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0131] FIG. 2E-4 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 201
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 135 in
a raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention.
[0132] FIG. 2F is a plan view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0133] FIG. 2G is a bottom view of sit-stand workstation 201,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0134] FIG. 3A-1 is a perspective view of a sit-stand workstation
301, according to some embodiments of the present invention. In
some embodiments, workstation 301 is substantially similar to
workstation 101 except that work table 330 of workstation 301
replaces work table 130 of workstation 101. In some embodiments,
work table 330 includes work surface 131, and two independently
controllable, adjustable work surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 (in some
such embodiments, the lowest position of adjustable work surfaces
335.1 and 335.2 puts the adjustable work surfaces 335.1 and 335.2
in a tiered configuration relative to work surface 131). In some
embodiments, each of work surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 is substantially
similar to adjustable surface 135 of workstation 101. In some
embodiments, workstation 301 includes a first switch 345.1
configured to control adjustable work surface 335.1, and a second
switch 345.2 configured to control adjustable work surface 335.2.
In some embodiments, switches 345.1 and 345.2 are each
substantially similar to switch 145 of workstation 101.
[0135] FIG. 3A-2 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 301
with adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position,
according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some
embodiments, adjustable surface 335.1 is coupled to support beam
336.1 and adjustable surface 335.2 is coupled to support beam
336.2.
[0136] FIG. 3A-3 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0137] FIG. 3A-4 is a perspective view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0138] FIG. 3B-1 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some
embodiments, workstation 301 includes a first electrical motor
system 338.1 configured to vertically move support beam 336.1 and
adjustable surface 335.1, and a second electrical motor system
338.2 configured to vertically move support beam 336.2 and
adjustable surface 335.2 (in some such embodiments, adjustable
surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 can each be independently placed in a
plurality of vertical positions). In some embodiments, each of
electrical motor systems 338.1 and 338.2 is substantially similar
to electrical motor system 138 of workstation 101.
[0139] FIG. 3B-2 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position, according
to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0140] FIG. 3B-3 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1 and
335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
[0141] FIG. 3B-4 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1 and
335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
[0142] FIG. 3B-5 is a front view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surface 335.1 in a
first raised position and adjustable surface 335.2 in a second
raised position, according to some embodiments of the present
invention. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3B-5, the vertical
movement of adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 is independently
controlled (in other embodiments, the vertical movement of
adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 is controlled such that both
surfaces are under a single control input that moves them
together).
[0143] FIG. 3C-1 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0144] FIG. 3C-2 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position, according
to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0145] FIG. 3C-3 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1 and
335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
[0146] FIG. 3C-4 is a rear view of sit-stand workstation 301 with
legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1 and
335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
[0147] FIG. 3D-1 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0148] FIG. 3D-2 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0149] FIG. 3D-3 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0150] FIG. 3D-4 is a left-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0151] FIG. 3E-1 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0152] FIG. 3E-2 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with adjustable surfaces 335.1 and 335.2 in a raised position,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0153] FIG. 3E-3 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a lowered position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0154] FIG. 3E-4 is a right-side view of sit-stand workstation 301
with legs 110 in a shortened position and adjustable surfaces 335.1
and 335.2 in a raised position, according to some embodiments of
the present invention.
[0155] FIG. 3F is a plan view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0156] FIG. 3G is a bottom view of sit-stand workstation 301,
according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0157] FIG. 4A is a bottom view of a sit-stand workstation 401,
according to some embodiments of the present invention. In some
embodiments, workstation 401 is substantially similar to
workstation 101 except that feet 415 replace feet 115 (in some
embodiments, feet 415 are used with any of the workstation
embodiments described herein). In some embodiments, each foot 415
includes a perpendicular wing 416 that extends at a ninety-degree
angle from the main portion of foot 415 in order to provide
horizontal (side-to-side) stability for workstation 401. In some
embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4A, perpendicular wing 416 is located
toward the back of foot 415 in order to provide room for the user's
feet and/or chair (in other embodiments, perpendicular wing 416 is
located in any other suitable location along foot 415). In some
embodiments, when feet 415 are used instead of feet 115 in a
workstation such as workstation 401, the stabilizing beam 120 can
be removed (in other embodiments, both stabilizing beam 120 and
feet 415 are used). In some embodiments, each foot 415 includes a
plurality of ground-contact pads or casters 417 (in some such
embodiments, the plurality of ground-contact pads 417 are
adjustable to keep workstation 401 from rocking).
[0158] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a portion of workstation
401 (leg-foot assembly 410) showing the right leg 110 and right
foot 415 (with perpendicular wing 416), according to some
embodiments of the present invention.
[0159] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a
workstation that includes a work table, wherein the work table
includes: a plurality of work surfaces including a first work
surface and a second work surface, wherein the second work surface
is configured to have vertical movement such that the second work
surface can be selectively placed in a first plurality of vertical
positions relative to the first work surface, and a first motor
operatively coupled to the second work surface and configured to
power the vertical movement of the second work surface; the
workstation further including a plurality of legs coupled to the
work table, wherein the plurality of legs is configured to support
the work table above a ground surface, wherein the plurality of
legs includes a lift mechanism configured to raise and lower the
plurality of legs such that the work table can be selectively
placed in a plurality of height configurations relative to the
ground surface.
[0160] In some embodiments of the workstation, the first plurality
of vertical positions of the second work surface includes a lowest
vertical position, wherein the second work surface is flush with
the first work surface when the second work surface is in the
lowest vertical position. In some embodiments, the plurality of
work surfaces further includes a third work surface that is in an
offset-height configuration relative to the first work surface.
[0161] In some embodiments of the workstation, the plurality of
work surfaces further includes a third work surface that is in an
offset-height configuration relative to the first work surface,
wherein the first plurality of vertical positions of the second
work surface includes a lowest vertical position, and wherein the
second work surface is flush with the third work surface when the
second work surface is in the lowest vertical position. In some
embodiments, the plurality of work surfaces further includes a
third work surface, wherein the third work surface is configured to
have vertical movement such that the third work surface can be
selectively placed in a second plurality of vertical positions
relative to the first work surface, and wherein the first motor is
further configured to power the vertical movement of the third work
surface such that the vertical movement of the third work surface
is simultaneous with the vertical movement of the second work
surface.
[0162] In some embodiments of the workstation, the plurality of
work surfaces further includes a third work surface, wherein the
third work surface is configured to have vertical movement such
that the third work surface can be selectively placed in a second
plurality of vertical positions relative to the first work surface,
the work table further including: a second motor operatively
coupled to the third work surface and configured to power the
vertical movement of the third work surface such that the vertical
movement of the third work surface is independent of the vertical
movement of the second work surface. In some embodiments, the
plurality of work surfaces further includes a third work surface,
wherein the third work surface is configured to have vertical
movement such that the third work surface can be selectively placed
in a second plurality of vertical positions relative to the first
work surface, wherein the second work surface is flush with the
third work surface and in an offset-height configuration relative
to the first work surface when both the first work surface and the
second work surface are in their respective lowest vertical
position.
[0163] In some embodiments of the workstation, the plurality of
legs includes a first leg coupled to a first side of the work table
and a second leg coupled to a second side of the work table, the
workstation further including a horizontal bracket coupled between
the first leg and the second leg in order to provide side-to-side
stabilization for the workstation. In some embodiments, the
plurality of legs includes a first leg coupled to a first side of
the work table and a second leg coupled to a second side of the
work table, wherein the first leg includes a first foot that has a
main segment that runs parallel with the first side of the work
table and a perpendicular segment that extends ninety-degrees away
from the main segment, and wherein the second leg includes a second
foot that has a main segment that runs parallel with the second
side of the work table and a perpendicular segment that extends
ninety-degrees away from the main segment.
[0164] In some embodiments of the workstation, the work table
further includes an operator switch configured to provide user
control for the first motor. In some embodiments, the operator
switch is configured to provide user control for both the first
motor and the lift mechanism of the plurality of legs.
[0165] In some embodiments of the workstation, the work table
further includes: a first operator switch configured to provide
user control for the first motor, and a second operator switch
configured to provide user control for the lift mechanism of the
plurality of legs.
[0166] In some embodiments of the workstation, the first plurality
of vertical positions of the second work surface includes a lowest
vertical position, wherein the second work surface is flush with
the first work surface when the second work surface is in the
lowest vertical position, and wherein the work table further
includes an operator switch configured to provide user control for
the first motor. In some embodiments, the first plurality of
vertical positions of the second work surface includes a lowest
vertical position, wherein the second work surface is flush with
the first work surface when the second work surface is in the
lowest vertical position, wherein the plurality of legs includes a
first leg coupled to a first side of the work table and a second
leg coupled to a second side of the work table, the workstation
further including a horizontal bracket coupled between the first
leg and the second leg in order to provide side-to-side
stabilization for the workstation.
[0167] In some embodiments of the workstation, the plurality of
work surfaces further includes a third work surface that is in an
offset-height configuration relative to the first work surface,
wherein the plurality of legs includes a first leg coupled to a
first side of the work table and a second leg coupled to a second
side of the work table, the workstation further including a
horizontal bracket coupled between the first leg and the second leg
in order to provide side-to-side stabilization for the
workstation.
[0168] In some embodiments of the workstation, the plurality of
work surfaces further includes a third work surface, wherein the
third work surface is configured to have vertical movement such
that the third work surface can be selectively placed in a second
plurality of vertical positions relative to the first work surface,
the work table further including: a second motor operatively
coupled to the third work surface and configured to power the
vertical movement of the third work surface such that the vertical
movement of the third work surface is independent of the vertical
movement of the second work surface, a first operator switch
configured to provide user control for the first motor, a second
operator switch configured to provide user control for the second
motor, and a third operator switch configured to provide user
control for the lift mechanism of the plurality of legs.
[0169] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method
for forming a workstation that includes providing a work table that
includes a plurality of work surfaces including a first work
surface and a second work surface, wherein the second work surface
is configured to have vertical movement such that the second work
surface can be selectively placed in a first plurality of vertical
positions relative to the first work surface; providing a first
motor; operatively coupling the first motor to the second work
surface in order to provide power for the vertical movement of the
second work surface; providing a plurality of legs; and coupling
the plurality of legs to the work table, wherein the plurality of
legs supports the work table above a ground surface, and wherein
the plurality of legs includes a lift mechanism configured to raise
and lower the plurality of legs such that the work table can be
selectively placed in a plurality of height configurations relative
to the ground surface.
[0170] In some embodiments of the method, the plurality of work
surfaces further includes a third work surface, wherein the third
work surface is configured to have vertical movement such that the
third work surface can be selectively placed in a second plurality
of vertical positions relative to the first work surface, the
method further including providing a second motor; and operatively
coupling the second motor to the third work surface in order to
provide power for the vertical movement of the third work surface
such that the vertical movement of the third work surface is
independent of the vertical movement of the second work
surface.
[0171] In some embodiments of the method, the plurality of work
surfaces further includes a third work surface, wherein the third
work surface is configured to have vertical movement such that the
third work surface can be selectively placed in a second plurality
of vertical positions relative to the first work surface, the
method further including operatively coupling the first motor to
the third work surface in order to provide power for the vertical
movement of the third work surface such that the vertical movement
of the third work surface is simultaneous with the vertical
movement of the second work surface.
[0172] In some embodiments of the method, the plurality of legs
includes a first leg and a second leg, wherein the coupling of the
plurality of legs to the work table includes attaching the first
leg to a first side of the work table and attaching the second leg
to a second side of the work table, the method further including
providing a horizontal bracket; and connecting the horizontal
bracket between the first leg and the second leg in order to
provide side-to-side stabilization for the workstation. In some
embodiments, the plurality of legs includes a first leg and a
second leg, wherein the coupling of the plurality of legs to the
work table includes attaching the first leg to a first side of the
work table and attaching the second leg to a second side of the
work table, wherein the first leg includes a first foot that has a
first main segment that runs parallel with the first side of the
work table and a first perpendicular segment that extends
ninety-degrees away from the first main segment, and wherein the
second leg includes a second foot that has a second main segment
that runs parallel with the second side of the work table and a
second perpendicular segment that extends ninety-degrees away from
the second main segment.
[0173] In some embodiments, the method further includes providing
an operator switch; electrically connecting the operator switch to
the first motor in order to provide user control for the first
motor; and attaching the operator switch to the work table.
[0174] In some embodiments, the present invention provides an
apparatus that includes a work table that includes a plurality of
work surfaces; means for raising and lowering at least one of the
plurality of work surfaces of the work table; and means for
supporting the work table above a ground surface, wherein the means
for supporting the work table includes means for changing a height
of the means for supporting.
[0175] It is to be understood that the above description is
intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Although numerous
characteristics and advantages of various embodiments as described
herein have been set forth in the foregoing description, together
with details of the structure and function of various embodiments,
many other embodiments and changes to details will be apparent to
those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The
scope of the invention should be, therefore, determined with
reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of
equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended
claims, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and
"wherein," respectively. Moreover, the terms "first," "second," and
"third," etc., are used merely as labels, and are not intended to
impose numerical requirements on their objects.
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