EP4094632A1

EP4094632A1 - Work unit

Info

Publication number: EP4094632A1
Application number: EP21176609.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Petri Pelkonen; Jaakko NIKKOLA
Original assignee: Mukawa Oy
Current assignee: Mukawa Oy
Priority date: 2021-05-28
Filing date: 2021-05-28
Publication date: 2022-11-30

Abstract

According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided a work unit, comprising a base element (9, 15), a leaning support (13) mounted on the base element (9, 15) and set on an angle in relation to the base element and configured to allow leaning to said support, a table (6) mounted on the base element at a distance from the leaning support, elbow rests (2) on both sides of said leaning support and set on an angle in relation to the base element and a mechanism for adjusting distance (20) for setting the distance between the table (6) and the elbow rests (2). Further, the work unit comprises a first shield (3) surrounding at least partially the leaning support (13) and a second shield (5) surrounding at least partially the table (6).

Description

FIELD

The invention concerns arrangements for providing a place for working or relaxing in a disturbed environment. More specifically the invention relates to providing a unit for using portable data processing devices like laptops, tablets and cell phones in a place where noise and visual disturbance from the environment is reduced.

BACKGROUND

The invention relates to providing a place to use laptops, tablets, cell phones and similar devices for work or recreational purposes. Usually these work units or work areas are also suitable for any other type of office work or for reading a book, watching videos and other similar activities. Such work units are, of course in offices, schools and other workplaces, but as mobile lifestyle and work has increased, places providing various degrees of services are offered also at public spaces. Such work units or working areas can be found at airports and libraries, for example. The service level of such units or areas varies from simple table and power socket to an isolated cubicle providing full privacy, electric power and data connections and even extra displays and keyboards. Since variation in services and comfort is numerous, one can contemplate that all of these solutions have drawbacks in general use outside the specific use they are designed for. For example, the most simple systems provide no privacy at all making handling confidential information impossible. On the other hand, cubicles providing excellent privacy and high service level are expensive to build and require large footprint making them less suitable for public spaces, especially when use is free or cannot be charged.
A place for work must include at least support for devices that are used, usually a table, and provide support for the person to stay in relaxed position. If any kind of privacy is needed, a single workplace has been surrounded by walls separating the workplace almost totally from the surroundings. Various units, stands and cubicles are described in following publications: US 6,702,372 , US 7,367,623 , US 6, 644,748 , EP 2 702 901 , US 3,704,847 , US 4,650,249 , US 5,149,174 , US 5,295,728 , US 2002/0171283 , US 2013/0125794 , US 2013/0306831 , US 2017/0105530 , EP 0996347 , CN 209202430 , EP 3256025 , WO2014/145475 , DE 102012018979 , WO2007/021926 , US 5,505,852 , US 10194743 , US 2006197362 , WO 9855005 , US 10299584 and US2010201165 . The designs shown in listed publications combine simplicity, portability and adjustability in various ways. In general, when adjustability is increased, simplicity is lost and portable simple constructions have limited adjustability. Most of the publications relate to ergonomics of the user. If privacy or protection from noise and visual disturbance is concerned, surrounding walls have been provided.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is defined by the features of the independent claims. Some specific embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a work unit, comprising

a base element,
a leaning support mounted on the base element and set on an angle in relation to the base element and configured to allow leaning to said support,
a table mounted on the base element at a distance from the leaning support
elbow rests on both sides of said leaning support and set on an angle in relation to the base element,
a mechanism for adjusting distance for setting the distance between the table and the elbow rests,
a first shield surrounding at least partially the leaning support and
a second shield surrounding at least partially the table.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGURE 1 illustrates a work unit in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention;
FIGURE 2 illustrates another alternative of a work unit in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention;
FIGURE 3 illustrates in a side view a back rest applicable for realizing at least some embodiments of the invention;
FIGURE 4 illustrates the back rest of FIGURE 3 from behind;
FIGURES 5 - 8 illustrate details of a table applicable for realizing at least some embodiments of the invention;
FIGURES 9 - 12 illustrate a floor and frame structure applicable for realizing at least some embodiments of the invention;
FIGURES 13 and 14 illustrate a shin rest applicable for realizing at least some embodiments of the invention;
FIGURES 15 - 18 illustrate alternatives for a back rest and a head rest applicable for realizing at least some embodiments of the invention;
FIGURES 19 and 20 illustrates a back rest and elbow rests applicable for realizing at least some embodiments of the invention;
FIGURE 21 illustrates a further alternative of a work unit in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention;

EMBODIMENTS

DEFINITIONS

In the present context, the term "work unit" comprises designs for providing a place or area for work or recreation that is at least partially protected from surrounding environment.
The work unit provides an ergonomic working position and reasonable protection from surrounding environment. Good ergonomics is needed even on short periods of use and essential for any prolonged use. If the work unit is used for working, disturbance form the environment should be prevented at least in some extent. Outsiders should be prevented from viewing displays and documents. These same requirements apply also for many other types of use, such as viewing of videos, messaging to friends and family and private discussions. On the other hand, the costs of the work unit should preferably be kept in reasonable limits as well as the footprint small enough. This is achieved by combining an office furniture designed to provide an ergonomic working position standing and enclosing the furniture with at least two walls or wall sections for improved shield for noise and visual disturbance.
FIGURE 1 illustrates a work unit in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention. The work unit has a base 15 that is joined to a tilted floor 9. Herein, the top surface of the tilted floor is in an angle upwards from the surfca of the base 15 when extending away from the base (15). The base 15 and the tilted floor 9 form a base element 9, 15. The base 15 and the tilted floor 9 is provided with wheels 11 for transport of the work unit. A backrest element 16 is mounted on the base by a column 17 extending upwards from the base 15. The column 17 is equipped with a handle 12 for aiding moving of the work unit. The back rest element 16 comprises a first shield 3 surrounding a back rest 13, a lumbar support 4 formed on the back rest 13, a head rest 1 at the top of the back rest 13 and elbow rests 2 on each side of the back rest 13. The backrest 13 is tilted to an angle in relation to the top of the base. The angle is set so that the backrest 13 away from the table, in other words, the top of the back rest 13 is further away from the table than the bottom thereof. The height of the backrest 13 and even the tilting angle may be adjusted by a suitable adjusting mechanism. The head rest 1 is also adjustable, for example by a mechanism allowing tilting and changing elevation. The elbow rest 2 are also set on an angle, and they do not include any horizontal support for elbows or forearms for reasons explained below. The first shield 3 surrounds the backrest 13 from behind and extends over to the sides of the back rest 13. In this embodiment, one or both sides of the first shield 3 may be formed as hinged doors 14 for facilitating entry to the work unit. The sides (in this example doors 14) extend over to the side of the back rest 13. The dimensioning of the sides may be adjusted to provide a desired grade of privacy. However, increasing the coverage over the sides may cause cramped feeling for persons inside. On the other hand, even a total coverage over the sides and a roof structure can be contemplated if secured privacy is needed. The first shield 3 may be integrated with backrest 13, head rest 1 and elbow rests 2 and mounted on the column 17 or they may be separately mounted on the column 17.
The backrest element 16 faces a table element 18 mounted on a stand 19, which is set on the tilted floor 9. The stand 19 includes a height adjusting mechanism 8 for setting the height of the table element 18. The table element comprises a table 6 and a second shield 5 surrounding the table 6 at the side opposite to the backrest element 16 and extending on the sides of the table 6. Also herein the dimensioning and design of the second shield 5 defined the degree of privacy and containment of the person at the work unit. The first 3 and second 4 shield may even be combined to each other to form a closed space, but partial shields as in FIGURE 1 provide easy access and comfort for user. The table unit 18 may be adjustable in height by a telescopic element shown in FIGURE 1 and the second shield and table may be adjustable as unit or table may be separately adjustable. The table may include also adjustment mechanism for tilt angle. One feature that is included is distance adjustment between the table 6 and the backrest 13 and elbow rests 2. The elbow rests 2 are tilted on an angle in relation to the base 15 in a similar manner as the backrest 13. When a person is working on the work unit, the distance between the table 6 and the elbow rests 2 is set or adjusted so that elbows rest freely supported on the elbow rests 2. As there is no horizontal support plane, users hands hang freely from elbows supported by the angled elbow rests 2. In this way the adjustment of the distance between the table 6 and the elbow rests 2 positions the arms of the user to a relaxed working position.
The table element 18 includes a shin rest 7 mounted on the stand 19. The height of the shin rest 7 may be adjusted by a rail system on the stand 19, for example.
FIGURE 2 illustrates an example apparatus capable of supporting at least some embodiments of the present invention. The main differences to the work unit described above are design of the shields 3, 5, the headrest 1 and the table element 18. Herein the table 6 is circular and the second shield 5 is curved partially over the circular edge of the table 6. This FIGURE 2 shows also a mechanism of adjusting the distance 20 between the backrest 13, elbow rests 2 and the table 6. In this example, the adjustment is bone by a linear rail mechanism 20 set below the table and shown in FIGURE 2 by hatched lines. The height adjustment of the table 6 and the second shield 5 is accomplished by a telescopic stand 19 on which the table 6 is set. Height adjustments of the shin rest 7 is accomplished by a collar 21 surrounding the stand 19.
It must be noted that the several adjustment features included in various embodiments of the invention may be implemented by many mechanisms known in the art of furniture design. Therefore, such mechanisms are not described herein further or in more detail.
Functions and purposes of some parts and design features of the above described examples are set forth below.
The head rest 1 support the neck and head of the user. Adjustability aids to accommodate the work unit for different users. Elbow rest 2 support he arms and elbows. The design of the tilted elbow rest 2 makes it unnecessary to set the elbow rest for individual user. The elbow of the user is positioned automatically on tilted continuous surface of the elbow rest 2. Even a small superfluous height of the elbow rest activates the trapezius that supports the weight of the arm. If such strain is continuous, it leads to neck pain and headaches. As the continuous flat surface of the elbow rest allows the point of the elbow set freely on a natural height, the strain is eliminated.
In examples according to the FUTURES 1 and 2, the first and second shield are formed as U-shaped vessels facing each other. They both have a base and side extensions directed towards each other. The shields may join to each other on one or both sides and be provided with doors, windows and roofs. However, two separate shields may be designed to provide easy access to the work unit on one or both sides. The visual and acoustic protection of the first shield surrounding the backrest 13 and the second shield 5 surrounding the table 6 form a space for working and other activities. Depending on the material of the shields, acoustic and visual protection may be adjusted. The shields surrounding the user improve acoustic environment and the shields reduce irritating visual stimulus, providing simultaneously protection from environment. The shield construction provides and increases privacy. In this way, a protected and acoustically improved environment is created. Further, the second shield increases data and information security by blocking direct visual access to screen(s). Ergonomics is also improved as reflections and access light sources are blocked. A light source may be provided for illuminating the table.
The adjustability of the distance between the table 6 and the backrest element 17 allows easy entry and exit from the work unit and is used for setting the personal ergonomic working position as described above. A lumbar support is part of the backrest 13 and supports the natural position of the back and lumbar region. The shin rest allows changing of working position and supporting the person's weight on shins reduces strain of large foot muscles and changes their point of gravity. Height adjustment of the table allows personal settings.
The tilted floor prevents sliding forwards during working. The tilt of the floor in combination of the tilt of the backrest supports the natural positioning of the body, thus reducing static strain to muscles and tendons. Further, the tilted floor allows changing the working position without leaving the work unit. A non-slip coating prevents slipping and increases comfort, providing pleasant ground for support.
Wheels and handle are provided to ease moving and transport even as daily basis.
The tilted, height adjustable backrest 13 provides a working position wherein the weight of the person's body is set partially on the backrest. Now the whole weight is not on feet. Such a working position is optimal for natural position of the back. Working partially standing also prevents health problems caused by sitting. The backrest is adjustable, preferably in a stepless manner, for example by a gas spring, allowing personal setting. The adjustment may be activated by movements of the body without positive locking. A mechanism for realizing above function is depicted in FIGURES 3 and 4. The column 17 has a telescopic structure allowing adjustment of the height of the whole back rest system. The back rest 13 is connected to a back rest slide mechanism 22. Such a slide mechanism is formed of slide rails and carriers running on the rails. The carriers may have elements like sliding pads, wheels or rolls to allow movement along the rails. In this example, the rails are fixedly connected to column 7 and carriers on the back rest 13 on surface opposite to a leaning surface for the user. System uses two rails. A gas spring 23 is arranged between the pair of rails, having one end connected to the back rest 13 and the other end to a fixed part of the column 17. Now, when a person pushes the back rest upwards or downwards, the gas spring 23 compensated the weight of the back rest 13 and dampens the movement of the back rest so that the back rest 13 can be comfortably adjusted simply by moving ones back.
The example in fIGURES 5 - 8 shows a table 6 mounted on a base 15. The base or the surface of the non-slip coating 10 of the base 15 is divided in sections. This may be done simply for decorative reasons or the base 15 may be formed of detachable pieces for easy dismantling and transport. The height adjusting mechanism 8 of the table is telescopic, comprising a U-profile mounted on the base 15 and a stand 19 mounted slidably within the U-profile. The mechanism for adjusting distance 20 is placed under the table 6 and may be constructed of rails and carriers as described above. The table is mounted on the stand 19 via said mechanism for adjusting distance 20 and through mounting blocks. The mounting blocks have an angled part and a horizontal part. The table 6 is mounted on the tilted part setting the table surface on a comfortable angle towards a user in from of the table 6. On the horizontal part is a supplementary table surface 26. The supplementary table surface 26 may include electric sockets, cup holders, clock or other items for enhancing utility of the work unit. The position of the table 6 may be adjusted by a control handle 27 that can be equipped with a locking mechanism.
FIGURES 9 - 12 depict the base 15. The column 17 and shin rest 7 are only cursory depicted and the most notable feature herein are the two alternate support systems for the base 15. In FIGURES 9 and 10 the base is mounted on wheels for transport 11 and in FIGURE 25 on adjustable paws 25. Of course, the wheels may also be adjustable in order to control the height and angle of the tilted floor 9.
FIGURES 13 and 14 show the shin support. The angles of the shin support and the tilted floor 9 are set so that the shin bone of a person leaning on the back rest has a reasonable length of the shin bone along the shin rest. The height of the shin rest7 may be adjusted with a shin rest handle 24 set to extend above the shin rest 7
FIGURES 15 and 16 depict one adjustable head rest 1. In this example, the head rest is mounted on the back rest 13 by an angled bar that is connected to the head rest 1 by a head rest tilting mechanism. 28. Such a mechanism may be simply an axle and slide sockets set around it or it may be a ball joint or other more complicated mechanism allowing further adjustability. An adjustable or set damper may be provide to prevent inadvertent movement. The bar may be slidably mounted on the back rest 13 to allow adjustment of height. Figures 17 and 18 show an example wherein the head rest 1 is mounted to the top of the back rest by a collar band (FIG. 17 or by rail mechanism (FIG. 18. The back rest 13 itself is formed of an angled to part, that has a lumbar support extending from it and a flat bottom part for supporting the behind of the user.
The elbow rest are depicted in FIGURES 19 and 20. As can be seen fom the side view of FIGURE 20, the support surface of the elbow rest is in the same angle as the top part of the back rest 13. This sets the elbows of the user in same leaning angle as the users back. Such positioning is considered to be ergonomic, but, of course, adjustment of the tilt angle of the elbow rest 2 may be provided. As can be seen from FIGURE 19, the surfaces for supporting the elbows of the elbow rests 2 are flat. The purpose of using flat surfaces it to allow the elbow rest on the flat surface without any hold from below under the elbow joint. This prevents strain to the shoulder area.
FIGURE 21 depicts a work unit having a dome shaped shield arrangement. Both the back rest element 16 and the table element 18 comprise a curved shield (first shield 3, second shield 5) having their concave sides facing each other. Further, the first shield 3 and he second shield 5 each comprise a dome 29 set on top of the concave shield part. The first shield 3 comprises a hinged door 14. In FIGURE 21 the first shield 3 and he second shield 5 are set to have a gap between them. This allows visual connection to the surrounding environment and flow of surrounding air into the work space. The gaps between or in the shield parts keep the air fresh within the space and prevent disturbing feeling of being enclosed in a constricted space. In this regard, the bottom edges of the first and second shield 3, 5 are distanced from the base 15. This forms a gap between the first and second shield 3, 5 and the base. This gap has same function as the gaps between the first and second shield 3, 5. The features of the work space of FIGURE 21 illustrate the flexibility of the work space to accommodate various degrees of privacy and openness. For example, the gap between the base 15 and the first shield 3 and the second shield 5 may be open around the whole circumference of the base 15 or it may be partially closed. Similarly, the gap between the first shield 3 and the second shield 5 may partially or totally closed.
The choice of material affects the acoustic performance of the first shield 3, second shield and the dome 29. For example, the dome may be constructed of a net, perforated sheet or felt or similar material for allowing at least some penetration of air and giving acoustic dampening. The first and second shield 3, 5 may be made of more solid material for providing more protective performance. Of course, any part of the shielding structure may be formed of any desirably penetrable or acoustically dampening material as desired. However, it must be noted that at least some air flow between the work space and the environment as well as at least some open space in the shielding is needed to avoid feeling of constricted space and to prevent decrease in air quality inside the work space. These problems are often present in closed working cubicles and should be avoided if total enclosure is not needed for privacy reasons.
The dome 29 of the first shield 3 and the door attached to it may be set of rails or on other mechanism for allowing moving them in relation to the first shield 3 and the second shield 5. This would allow adjustment of the gap between the first shield 3 and the second shield 5 for easy access to the work space or even for closing the gap, if so desired.
The invention combines traditional working environment and innovations. By virtue of the standing position, the at least some embodiments of the invention provide very compact work unit that requires small footprint. Only about one square meter space is needed for one unit and units can be transported on single EUR-platforms.
The work units may be accessorized with any equipment required, depending on service level to be provided. For example, units may include lightning, data connections, electricity, screen(s), loudspeakers or anything that may be needed or desired.
It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention disclosed are not limited to the particular structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but are extended to equivalents thereof as would be recognized by those ordinarily skilled in the relevant arts. It should also be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.
Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositional elements, and/or materials may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary. In addition, various embodiments and example of the present invention may be referred to herein along with alternatives for the various components thereof. It is understood that such embodiments, examples, and alternatives are not to be construed as de facto equivalents of one another, but are to be considered as separate and autonomous representations of the present invention.
Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of lengths, widths, shapes, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.
While the forgoing examples are illustrative of the principles of the present invention in one or more particular applications, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications in form, usage and details of implementation can be made without the exercise of inventive faculty, and without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited, except as by the claims set forth below.
The verbs "to comprise" and "to include" are used in this document as open limitations that neither exclude nor require the existence of also un-recited features. The features recited in depending claims are mutually freely combinable unless otherwise explicitly stated. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the use of "a" or "an", i.e. a singular form, throughout this document does not exclude a plurality.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The invention may be utilized for providing work units, work spaces and such for different purposes of use.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

1 head rest
2 elbow rest
3 first shield
4 lumbar support
5 second shield
6 table
7 shin rest
8 height adjusting mechanism
9 tilted floor
10 non slip coating
11 wheels for transport
12 handle
13 backrest
14 hinged door
15 base
16 back rest element
17 column
18 table element
19 stand
20 mechanism for adjusting the distance
21 collar
22 back rest slide mechanism
23 gas spring
24 shin rest handle
25 adjustable paw
26 supplementary table surface
27 control handle
28 head rest tilting mechanism
29 dome

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature:

US 6,702,372 , US 7,367,623 , US 6, 644,748 , EP 2 702 901 , US 3,704,847 , US 4,650,249 , US 5,149,174 , US 5,295,728 , US 2002/0171283 , US 2013/0125794 , US 2013/0306831 , US 2017/0105530 , EP 0996347 , CN 209202430 , EP 3256025 , WO2014/145475 , DE 102012018979 , WO2007/021926 , US 5,505,852 , US 10194743 , US 2006197362 , WO 9855005 , US 10299584 , US2010201165

Claims

A work unit, comprising
- a base element (9, 15),

- a leaning support (13) mounted on the base element (9, 15) and set on an angle in relation to the base element (9, 15) and configured to allow leaning to said support (13),

- a table (6) mounted on the base element (9, 15) at a distance from the leaning support (13),

- elbow rests (2) on both sides of said leaning support (13) and set on an angle in relation to the base element (9, 15),

- a mechanism for adjusting distance (20) connected o the table (6) for setting the distance between the table (6) and the elbow rests (2),

- a first shield (3) surrounding at least partially the leaning support (13), and

- a second shield (5) surrounding at least partially the table (6).
A work unit according to the claim 1, wherein the first (3) and second (5) shield comprise side extensions so that shields have a U-shaped vessel form and there is a gap between opposite side extensions of first (3) and second (5) shield.
A work unit according to one of the claims 1 or 2, wherein the elbow rests (2) have continuous flat surfaces.
A work unit according to one of the claims 1 - 3, wherein the base element comprises a base (15) and a floor (9) tilted in relation to the base (15) .
A work unit according to one of the claims 1 - 4, wherein the height of the backrest (13) is steplessly adjustable.
A work unit according to the claim 5, wherein the backrest (13) comprises a mechanism for allowing adjustment of height without positive locking.
A work unit according to the claim 6, wherein the mechanism for allowing adjustment of height comprises a gas spring (23).
A work unit according to any of the claims 1 - 7, comprising a shin rest (7) facing the backrest (13).
A work unit according to any of the claims 1 - 8, comprising a gap between the base (15) and the bottom edge of at least one of the first shield (3) and the second shield (5).
A work unit according to any of the claims 1 - 9, comprising a gap at least partially separating the first shield (3) and the second shield (5).
A work unit according to any of the claims 1 - 9, comprising a gap separating the first shield (3) and the second shield (5).
A work unit according to any of the claims 1 - 11, wherein at least one of the first shield (3) or the second shield (5) comprises a dome (29) extending over at least part of the work space.
A work unit according to any of the claims 1 - 12, wherein at least one of the first shield (3) second shield (5) or the dome (29) is made of material penetrable to air.