MXPA00012098A - Height adjustable workstation. - Google Patents

Abstract

A workstation with a column, a height adjustment mechanism adapted to travel up and down the length of the column and to be fixed at desired positions and a brake mechanism for fixing the position of the height adjustment mechanism and which releasably engages the column, wherein the brake mechanism includes an indicator system that indicates to a user whether or n ot the brake mechanism is balanced.

Description

ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT WORKING STATION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the field of office furniture and workspace systems: More specifically, the invention relates to a work station of adjustable height. In general, a work station provides a place for one to work. More often, a workstation includes at least one work surface, usually horizontal, such as a desk or table. The work station may also include apparatuses to support work tools such as computers, monitors, telephones and the like. Adjustable height work stations are known in the art. Some work stations have a height adjustability scale of a few to several centimeters to serve users of different sizes on the work surface. Other work surfaces have a scale larger than 6,096 to 9,144 centimeters to allow users to make more drastic changes, that is, to accommodate work while sitting in a chair or while standing. These latter work surfaces are particularly advantageous in giving the user the flexibility to work in different ways.

Naturally, the height adjustment mechanisms, which are easily usable by the occupant of the work station, are preferably for those who require special tools and utensils. Such mechanisms usable by the occupant have previously included springs, motors and / or screws to help raise the work station. Although some workstations can be moved, they are usually not considered mobile, that is, easily moved by the user. One obstacle to mobility is that most workstations can not pass through an entrance, usually only 76.2 centimeters wide, without being disassembled. As a result, opportunities for collaboration among team members can be blocked, particularly when collaboration involves the use of computers and monitors from different team members.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION One aspect of the present invention relates to a work station with a column, a height adjustment mechanism adapted to travel up and down the length of the column and to be fixed in desired positions and a brake mechanism to fix the position of the height adjustment mechanism by automatically releasing the vertical column in a loose manner based on the amount of weight supported by the height adjustment mechanism, wherein the brake mechanism includes a latching element mounted within a limited area which is circumscribed by a pair of spacers. A second aspect of the present invention relates to a work station with a column, a height adjustment mechanism adapted to travel up and down the length of the column and to be fixed in desired positions and a brake mechanism for fixing the position of the height adjustment mechanism and which loosely engages the column, wherein the brake mechanism includes an indicator system that signals a user whether the brake mechanism is compensated or not. A third aspect of the present invention relates to a method for balancing a brake mechanism that fixes the position of a height adjustment mechanism adapted to travel up and down a length of a column. The method includes detecting a compensating force applied to a latching element and indicating to a user whether the brake mechanism is balanced based on the detection. According to one or more embodiments of the invention, the work station has a height adjustability scale sufficient to allow a user to work sitting on the floor, sitting on a chair and standing, as well as at any intermediate point. This work station also includes a counterbalance system to facilitate the manual adjustment of the height of the work surface, even when heavy equipment is placed on it. The preferred scale of height adjustability provides the advantage that a worker can work in their most comfortable position, whether standing, sitting in a chair or sitting on the floor. It has been found that collaboration around a computer monitor is easier to support the monitor at a height that is easily seen while standing. In addition, the almost infinite height adjustability between the low and high points allows workers of different sizes to have a surface at the optimum height for their size. Moreover, the preferred height adjustment mechanism which provides easy and quick adjustment by the user, allows the user to change between working positions without any impediment. The compactability of one or more embodiments of the invention is not only an advantage in allowing the workstation to move between sites within an office. It also provides advantages when it is sent.i or stored workstations. It should be noted that, as used herein, the terms "horizontal" and "vertical" are not intended to be limited to strictly horizontal or vertical orientation, but rather to orientations that are at least approximately horizontal or vertical. The present invention, together with the concurrent objects and advantages, will be better understood with reference to the detailed description later in connection with the accompanying drawings.

SHORT DISCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a work station according to the present invention with the work surface at the height of a chair. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the preferred workstation of Figure 1 with the work surface at a standing height. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the preferred work station of Figure 1 with the work surface at floor height. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the work station of Figure 1 with the legs, side panels and deployment panels in the compacted position. Figure 5 is a schematic view of the work station of Figure 1. Figure 5a shows a weight element to be used with the work station of Figure 1. Figure 6 is a top view of the column to be used with the work station of figure 1 in a partial cross section. Figure 7 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a height adjustment mechanism to be used with the workstation of Figure 1. Figure 7a schematically illustrates one embodiment of a brake mechanism.

Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the hidden side of the work surface for use with the workstation of Figure 1. Figure 9 is a rear perspective view of a display panel to be used with the work station of Figure 1. Figure 10 is a schematic view of the angle adjustment mechanism for the display panel of Figure 9. Figure 11 is a schematic view of the preferred speed limiter. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of the speed limiter of Figure 11. Figure 13A is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a workstation according to the present invention which is at a standing height. . Figure 13B is a perspective view of the workstation of Figure 13A with the work surface at floor height. Figure 13C is a perspective view of the workstation of Figure 13A in a compacted position. Figure 14 shows a schematic view of a vertical column used with the workstation of Figures 13A-C. Figure 15 shows a main view of the vertical column of figure 14.

Figure 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the vertical column of Figure 13 along line 16-16 of Figure 15. Figure 17 shows a schematic view of a fastening system for an extrusion that is used with the column vertical of figure 14. Figure 18 shows a side view of a brake rack used with the vertical column of figure 14. Figure 19 shows a schematic view of a cover to be used with the vertical column of figure 14. Figure 20 shows a schematic view of the workstation of Figures 13A-C. Figure 21 schematically shows a weight positioning system. Fig. 22 is an enlarged view of the circular area of Fig. 21. Fig. 23 schematically shows a first embodiment of a calibration system according to the present invention. Figure 24 shows an enlarged view of a lever used in a first position in the calibration system of Figure 23. Figure 25 shows an enlarged view of a circular area of Figure 23.

Figure 26 shows an enlarged view of the lever of Figure 24 used in a second position in the calibration system of Figure 23. Figure 27 shows a partially schematic view of a second embodiment of a calibration system according to the present invention. Figure 28 shows a top perspective view of a portion of the calibration system of Figure 27. Figure 29 shows a side perspective view of the portion of the calibration system of figure 28. Figure 30 shows a top perspective view of the calibration system of figure 27. Figure 31 shows a side perspective view of the calibration system of the figure 27. Figure 32 shows a schematic view of the height adjustment mechanism to be used with the workstation of Figures 13A-C. Figure 33 shows a cross-sectional view of a roller to be used with the workstation of Figures 13A-C. Figure 34 shows a schematic view of a first embodiment of a brake mechanism to be used with the workstation of Figures 13A-C.

Figure 35 shows a side view of the brake mechanism of Figure 34. Figures 36 and 37 schematically show the operation of the brake mechanism of Figures 34 and 35. Figure 38 shows a top view of a work surface to be used with the workstation of Figures 13A-C. Figure 39 shows a schematic view of a base support for the workstation of Figures 13A-C. Figure 40 shows a schematic view of either a leg or a support arm for use with the work station of Figures 13A-C. Figure 41 shows a bottom perspective view of a male element used with the support leg or arm of Figure 40. Figure 42 shows a top view of either the leg or support arm of Figure 40. Figure 43 shows a side view of either the leg or support arm of Figure 40. Figure 44A shows a bottom view of either the leg or support arm of Figure 40. Figure 44B shows a cross-sectional view of either the leg or support arm of Figure 40 along lines 44B-44B of Figure 44A.

Figure 45 shows a bottom view of a base to be used with the workstation of Figures 13A-C. Figure 46 shows a top view of an arm to be used with the workstation of Figures 13A-C. Figure 47 shows a side view of the arm of Figure 46. Figure 48 shows a perspective view of a fastener that engages the arm of Figures 46 and 47. Figure 49 shows a perspective view of a hook member that the arm of Figures 46 and 47 is engaged. Figure 50 shows a main view of a second embodiment of a brake mechanism according to the present invention. Figure 51 shows is a main view of a comb spacer that is used with the brake mechanism of Figure 50. Figure 52 is a main view of a mounting plate that is used with the brake mechanism of Figure 50 Fig. 53 is a main view of a train compensator used with the brake mechanism of Fig. 50. Fig. 54 shows a main view of a second embodiment of a brake mechanism according to the present invention. Figure 55 is a perspective view of a brake plate assembly that is used with the brake mechanism of Figure 54. Figure 56 is a main view of the brake plate assembly of Figure 55.

Fig. 57 is a perspective view of a locking plate or comb that is used with the brake mechanism of Fig. 54. Fig. 58 is a main view of the locking plate or comb of Fig. 57. Fig. 59 is a perspective view of a slider that is used with the brake mechanism of Figure 54. Figure 60 is a top cross-sectional view of the slider of Figure 59. Figure 61 is a bottom cross-sectional view of the slider of Figure 59 Fig. 62 is a perspective view of a slide of the slider used with the brake mechanism of Fig. 54. Fig. 63 is a main view of the slide of the slider of Fig. 62. Fig. 64 is a cross-sectional view Fig. 65 is a side view of a bar that is used with the brake mechanism of Fig. 54. Fig. 66 shows a main view of a third embodiment of a brake mechanism of Fig. 65. agreement with present invention. Figure 67 is a bottom perspective view of a brake plate assembly that is used with the brake mechanism of Figure 66.

Figure 68 is a main view of the brake plate assembly of Figure 67. Figure 69 is a right end view of the brake plate assembly of Figure 67. Figure 70 is a lower end view of the assembly of brake plate of figure 67. The figure 71 is a perspective view of a locking plate or comb that is used with the brake mechanism of Figure 66. Figure 72 is a main view of the locking plate or comb of Figure 71. Figure 73 is a perspective view of a slider that is used with the brake mechanism of figure 66. Figure 74 is a top cross-sectional view of the slider of figure 73. Figure 75 is a bottom cross-sectional view of the slider of figure 73. Figure 76 is a perspective view of a slide of the slider used with the brake mechanism of Figure 66. Figure 77 is a main view of the slide of the slider of Figure 76. Figure 78 is a side cross-sectional view of the slider. Slider lock of figure 76.

Figure 79 is a bottom view of a work surface that is fixed to a visual indicator that forms part of the brake mechanism of Figure 66. Figure 80 is a main view of the work station that includes the work surface and Brake mechanism of figures 66-79. Figure 81 is an enlarged main view of the work station and work surface of Figure 80. Figure 82 is an enlarged view of the visual indicator of Figure 79. Figure 83 is a schematic view of either a leg or a support arm that will be used with the workstation of Figures 13A-C. Figure 84A is a view of the lower part of the support leg or arm of Figure 83. Figure 84B is a cross-sectional view of the support leg or arm of Figure 83 taken along line 84B -84B of figure 84A. Figure 85 is a view of the bottom of a base to be used with the leg of Figure 83.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES With reference to the drawings, figures 1-3 show a mode of a workstation 11 with a computer monitor 13 and keyboard 15 mounted on the work surface 17. A belt 14 is used to secure the monitor 13 to the platform 73 so that it can not fall when the weight of the work surface 17 changes or when the work station 11 moves. Figure 1 shows the work surface adjusted to a suitable height for a user sitting on a chair. Figure 2 shows the work surface adjusted to a suitable height for a standing user. Figure 3 shows the work surface adjusted to a suitable height for a user sitting cross-legged on the floor. Figures 2 and 3 have the front cover 35 removed to reveal the weights 127. This wide variety of height adjustments is advantageous to allow a user to work in different positions to suit the user's work and well-being. In addition, supporting a computer or other deployment device at a height suitable for observation while standing is particularly advantageous for facilitating collaboration among workers. The work station 11 includes a vertical column 19. Preferably, the column 19 is sufficiently high to allow the work surface 17 to rise to a point as shown in Figure 2 to allow a user to work comfortably while is standing. Column 19 is at least 127 cm high and the travel of the height adjustment mechanism is at least 55 cm. More preferably, the column 19 is at least 172 cm in height and the travel of the height adjustment mechanism is at least 100 cm. As best seen in Figures 5 and 6, the vertical column 19 is made from several parts. An extrusion of aluminum 27 is included on each side of the column 19. The extrusions 27 are bolted between the base 130 and the top 120. Within each extrusion 27, a rail 25 is formed. The column 19 also includes a rear panel 29 and a rear tube 31. Tube 31 includes a U-shaped head portion on its upper portion that can serve as a handle for moving the work station. The column further includes a front panel 35 and guide tubes 33. As will be discussed below, the guide tubes guide the weight elements 127 of the counterbalance system. The work station 11 preferably includes legs 45 which help to keep the column 19 vertical. As illustrated, the legs are preferably mounted by bolts 47 which pass through the covers 46 and are held on the base 130. This configuration allows legs to pivot between a use position and a collapsed position. In the position of use, which is shown in Figures 1-3, the legs 45 are extended from one another thus avoiding interference with the feet or chair of the user. In the collapsed position shown in figure 4, the legs 45 pivot towards each other to allow the work station to pass through an inlet, preferably a 76.2 cm inlet. Preferably, the legs 45 and the column 19 include rolling elements 49, 50 and 52 so that the work station can be easily moved along a floor. More preferably, the rolling elements 49, 50 and 52 are small, omnidirectional pivoting wheels as shown in the figures. Alternatively, the rolling elements can be wheels. At least some of the rolling elements are equipped with a conventional brake. Naturally, the rolling elements must be capable of rolling over several types of floors and minor obstacles. The work station also includes a height adjustment mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, this mechanism consists of a carriage 21 (see also figures 5-7). The carriage 21 includes 4 rolling elements 23, two on each side. These rolling elements 23 are adapted to roll inside the rails 25 in the aluminum extrusions 27 on both sides of the column 19. The carriage 21 preferably includes a brake mechanism for releasably fixing the work surface 17 at different heights. along the column 19. The brake is shown in figures 7 and 7A. A vertical zipper 37 is adhered to the column 19. A coupling element 39 includes teeth meshing with the teeth of the rack 37. The element 39 is mounted to a block 41 which is biased by the spring 43 towards the rack 37, securing therefore the height of the carriage 21 along the column 19. To release the brake and adjust the height of the work surface, the block 41 with the coupling element 39 is pushed from the rack 37, for example by a lever-operated cable (not shown). Alternate brake mechanisms can also be used. For example, a simple clamping device mounted on the carriage holding onto a projection of the column could be used. In addition, a series of holes or indentations can be provided on the column whereby a pin or other protrusion is fixed on the carriage. The brake mechanism of Figures 34-37 and described below can also be used equally. The carriage 21 also includes a speed limiter 230 to prevent the work surface from changing height too quickly. In particular, it is desired to prevent the working surface from falling when the brake is uncoupled, especially when heavy equipment is mounted on the work surface. Moreover, as will be described in detail below, the work station preferably includes a counterbalancing system to help lift the work surface particularly with heavy equipment mounted thereon. In this way, it is also desirable to prevent the work surface from rising too fast, for example if the counterbalance is adjusted for more weight than it is placed on the work surface.

The preferred form of the speed limiter is shown schematically in Figure 11. The limiter includes adaptations on the left side of the carriage 21 in a semicircular cutout 231. An outer gear 233 is held in place so that its teeth engage with the toothed bar 37. The outer gear 233 rotates on an internal wheel 235. The internal wheel 235 includes two lugs 237 which are adhered to the carriage 21 so that the wheel 235 is not allowed to rotate. Arranged within and rotating with the outer gear 233 are two detents 241 and 243. Each retainer pivots on the central bearing 244. The retainer 241 is deflected by the spring 245 and the retainer 243 is deflected by the spring 247 as to put the ends away from the teeth 236 of the inner wheel 235. However, as the angular velocity of the gear 233 increases, the centripetal force acts against the springs and the ends of the detents deviate in contact with the teeth 236, stopping the rotation of gear 233 and stopping carriage travel 21. Preferably, brake 230 is configured to prevent the work station from moving faster than 1.21 meters per second up or down. Adhered to the carriage 21 is a fastener 35 supporting the work surface 17. Specifically, the fastener 35 includes a bottom plate 68 and flanges 69 that cooperate to support the center section 61 of the work surface. Specifically, the arrangement is designed so that the central section 61 can slide on the fastener to thereby allow the user to adjust the depth of the section 61. The fastener 35 is configured to support a raised platform 73 on the upper part of the bra (see figure 7). The platform 73 is configured to be adjustable in height and depth. As described, this is most preferably accomplished by providing a series of front holes 76 and rear holes 74 in the platform 73. Bolts or pins are inserted through the front holes 36 on the fastener 35 and one of the front holes 76 in the platform 73. Likewise pins or pins are inserted through the rear holes 34 and one of the rear holes 74 in the platform 73. In this way, the height, depth, and even the angle of the platform 73 can be adjusted in relation to the rest of the work surface 17. As shown in figures 1-3, this platform preferably supports a computer monitor. Alternatively, the platform can be made long enough to hold two or more computer monitors. The belts 14 are preferably included to secure the monitors or other equipment to the platform 73. The fastener 35 also includes two hinges 71. Adhered to the hinges 71 is the right side 63 and the left side 65 of the work surface 17. As a result , the sides 63 and 65 can be moved between a horizontal position (see Figures 1-3) to a collapsed or vertical position (see Figure 4) thus allowing the work station to pass more easily through an entrance. As illustrated in Fig. 4, it is preferred to fold the sides 63 and 65 downwards. Alternatively, the sides can be folded up. Still alternatively, the sides can be made to pivot horizontally to pivot to a retracted position. In addition, the sides can be made to be easily removable and re-adhered to provide the ability to compact so that the work station passes through entrances. The perspective view of Figure 8 from below of the work surface 17 shows a method for supporting the sides 63 and 65. In particular, pivoting arms 81 and 83 are provided to support the sides 63 and 65 respectively. Retaining fasteners 85 and 87 are mounted to the bottom of the sides 63 and 65 to hold the arms 81 and 83 in place. To fold down the sides 63 and 65, the arms 85 and 87 are released from the fasteners 85 and 87 and pivot towards each other so as to be below the central section 61. The support plates 89 and 91 are adhered to the sides 63 and 65. These plates serve to support the center section 61, in particular as it slides in and out of the fastener 35. The work station also includes deployment panels 101 and 103 that are supported above the work surface 17 and are adapted to move up and down. down with the work surface. These panels 101 and 103 are preferably equipped with fasteners 201 or the like to hold papers or other objects for the user of the work station. The deployment panels are supported on fold bars 105 and 107. More preferably, the deployment panels are pivotally adhered to the bars so as to be adjustable between an upright position and a horizontal position, and to be adjustable between a position of use (see figures 1-3) and a collapsed position (see figure 4). As shown in Figure 10, this is preferably achieved with a pivot adjustment hinge 104 that includes a series of rotation and non-rotation washers 211, 213, 217, 219, and 221 that work with the end location 209, the chameleon body 215 and the adjustment screw 223 to provide for the adjustment and securement of the deployment panel in the desired orientation. The workstation also includes lights 122 and 124 mounted to move up and down with the work surface 17. Preferably, those lights are mounted to the deployment panels 101 and 103. Still other equipment for the user may also be mounted to the workstation, such as a telephone or audio speakers. Although the monitor 13 is preferably mounted on the platform 73 and the keyboard 15 is preferably supported on the center section 61 of the work surface 17, the CPU of a computer can be mounted over several locations. For example, the CPU can rest on the platform 73 and below the monitor 13. Alternatively, the CPU can be mounted on the underside of the work surface or on a ledge or ledge adhered to the side of the column 19. Otherwise, the CPU can be supported on a separate frame or structure.

The work station includes a counterbalance mechanism so that the lifting of the work surface 17 manually is not difficult, even when heavy equipment is mounted thereon, such as a 53.3 cm monitor. The preferred counterbalance mechanism includes weights, a cable and pulleys. Specifically, a cable 115 is adhered to one end of the carriage 21 on the upper right side 111 and adhered to the other end of the carriage on the upper left side 113. This cable passes over the upper pulleys 117 and 119 and below the pulley weight 121. Consequently, as the work surface is lowered, the weight pulley is lifted and vice versa. The weight pulley 121 is adhered to the bar 123 which includes a column of holes 125. A plurality of weight elements 127 and 128 are provided with a hole 126 in the middle through which the bar 123 passes (see figure 5a). ). The weight elements are formed to slide within the column. Specifically, a semicircular groove 128 is provided on both sides of each weight element 12. The guide tubes 33 are configured to fit within those grooves 128. More preferably, a bushing is included within the groove 128 to reduce friction. Each weight element 127 also includes a groove 132 for receiving the pin 129. Specifically, the pin 129 is inserted through one of the holes 125 in the bar 123 to select how many weight elements will rise when the bar 123 rises. In this way, the amount of weight applied by the counterbalance can be easily adjusted by the user. A rubber pad 128 is preferably placed on the base 130 so that the weight elements 127 contact the pad 128 when they come down completely. The counterbalance system includes twenty-eight elements 127, each of which weighs approximately 3.26 kg. Some of the weight elements, more preferably eight, are permanently fixed to the bar 123 so that the cable is at constant tension, even when the pin 129 is removed from the bar. Alternate counterbalance systems can also be used.

For example, weights filled with water can be used and adjusted for the amount of water used. In addition, an adjustable tension or compression spring system can be used. Although the height adjustment mechanism is operated manually, it can also be motorized by conventional means such as a rotating screw or chain drive. A second mode for a work station is shown in Figures 13-47. As shown in Figures 13-15, the work station 300 includes a vertical structure such as the vertical column 302 which is adhered to a base 304 and an upper part 306. The vertical column 302 acts as a support for a pair of vertical rails 308 and a pair of brake racks 310. As shown in Figures 14-17, each of the vertical racks 308 is formed from an aluminum extrusion 312 which is bolted to the base 304 and the upper part 306. The lower portion of each extrusion 312 is adhered to the upper part of the base 304 through three screws or bolts and nuts (not shown) as shown in figure 17, an adhesion piece in the form of inverted L 314 is adhered to the lower portion of the extrusion 312 by a plate 316 having a pair of openings 318 which are aligned with corresponding openings of the extrusion 312 and the adhesion piece 314 so that e a pair of screws 319 (screw for extrusion 312 not shown) are inserted into the aligned openings. Each extrusion 312 is adhered to the top 306 by three screws or bolts and nuts 320. As shown in Figures 14-16, the extrusions 312 act as a structure for adhering the back panel 322 thereto. In particular, the rear panel 322 has a plurality of openings 324 that align with the corresponding openings in the extrusions 312 so that the screws can be inserted therethrough. Prior to the insertion of the screws, a pair of vertical racks 310 have their openings 326 aligned with the aligned openings of the extrusions 312 and the rear panel 322 so that the screws adhere all three elements together. To provide additional structural support for work station 300 and vertical column 302, a pair of tubes 330a and extend between base 304 and top 306 adhere. The free upper end of each tube 330 is threadedly inserted in a threaded opening formed in a corresponding extension 336. Similarly, the free lower end of each tube 330 is threaded into a threaded opening 338 formed in the rear portion of the base 304. Foam tubes 334 are inserted on the upper portions of the tubes 330 so that the tubes 334 and the upper portions of the tubes 330 can be used as handles to move the work station 300 from one place to another. Within the vertical column 302, a position adjustment mechanism is mounted to move an object, such as a work surface 336, from a first vertical position to a second vertical position. The position adjustment mechanism is preferably a weight counterbalance system 339. As shown in Figures 13-15 and 19-20, the weight counterbalance system 339 includes a pair of pulleys 340, 342 rotatably supported on top 306 by a pair of shafts 500 having two ends supported in a slot 502 and a center section supported by a bearing 504 located within the pulley. The pulleys are hidden by plastic covers or caps 506 having tabs 508 that couple the walls of the slot 502. The left pulley 304 supports a cable 344 having a free end adhered to a pin inserted through the opening 346 located in the left part of the rear portion of the carriage 348 while the other free end of the cable 344 is adhered to the left pin 350 of the bar holder 352. The right pulley 342 supports the second cable 344 having a free end attached to a pin which is inserted through an opening 346 located to the right of the rear portion of the carriage 348 while the other free end is attached to the right pin 350 of the bar holder 352. Note that the free ends of the cables 344 preferably they have drop-shaped washers (not shown) attached thereto so as to provide an opening for engaging the pins described above. As shown in Figures 27-29, the bar fastener 352 is attached to a vertical bar 360 having one or more holes 362 that are used to support one or more weights 364. Like the weight elements 127 and 128 of Figures 1-12, weights 364 are provided with a hole 365 in the middle portion through which the bar 360 passes so that it is adjacent to the weight elements. Weight elements 364 are configured to slide within the column. Specifically, a slot 367 is provided on both sides of each weight member 364. The free ends 329 of the racks 310 are configured to fit within these slots 367. More preferably, a plastic bushing 328 is included. inside slot 367 to reduce friction. Preferably one or more rubber pads 369 are placed on the base 304 so that the weight members 364 contact the pad or pads 369 when they are fully lowered.

The counterbalance system includes a plurality of weight elements 364, each of which weighs approximately 3.3 kg. The total number of weight elements 364 is equal to the counterbalancing number of the anticipated maximum equipment weight will be placed on work surface 336. Therefore, as many as 20 weight elements 364 can be used in the counterbalance system. Some of the weight elements can be permanently fixed to the bar 360 so that the cable 344 is in constant tension, even when the pin 368 is removed from the bar 360. To understand the problems encountered by a variety of systems Overall weight counterbalance, the reader's attention is drawn to Figures 21 and 22 which schematically show how a typical weight counterbalancing system could work on work surface 336, bar 360 and weights 364 of the present invention. In such a system, the bar 360 is tilted upwards due to the front loading generated by the work surface 336 and the objects 413, 429 on it and the weights 364 are tilted down due to gravity. Opposite inclinations can create misalignment between the holes of the bar 360 and the weights 364 and could create a cutting force on the pin 368 so that it is difficult to remove and replace it. As shown schematically in Figures 23-26, the present invention counteracts the above-described disadvantage by using a gauge, such as a cam mechanism similar to cam lever 366, to adjust the length of cable 344 to be calibrated the position of a weight so that the weight can be attached to the weight counterbalance system. The lever 366 provides the additional advantage that it acts as a safety device that reduces the possibility of the pin 368 being removed when the weights 364 are not in their lowest position and prevents unintentional removal of the pin 368 by hiding the pin. 368 when it is in the resting position. During operation, the user first determines the number n of weights 364 that will be supported on the bar 360 to easily move the work surface 336 and any of the objects on it. The user then raises the lever 366 upwards so as to discover the holes 362 initially hidden by the lever 366. The user then determines whether a hole 362 associated with the nth weight as counted from above is or is not obstructed. for the nth weight. If it is determined that the associated hole is obstructed by the nth weight, then the lever with cams 366 pivots from a vertical direction upwards causing the bar 360 to move down relative to the weights 364. The rotation pivoting of lever 366 stops when the hole associated with the nth weight remains unobstructed. At this point, a pin 368 is inserted into the non-obstructed hole associated with the nth weight so that a slot 370 of the nth weight 364 rests on the pin 368.

As shown schematically in Figures 23-26, one embodiment of the present invention has the cable 344 attached at a point A of the cam portion 372 of the lever 366. The cam portion 372 has an arcuate slot 374 that receives a pin 376 attached to the upper part of bar 360. Rotation of lever 366 upwards increases the distance from point A to pin 376 and, in this way, lowers bar 360 relative to point A. Rotation of the lever 366 acts in effect as if the cable 344 had been stretched. In Figs. 20 and 27-29 there is shown another embodiment of the present invention which allows the bar 360 to be calibrated and moved relative to the weights 364. The embodiment of Figs. 20 and 27-29 differs from that of Figs. -12 in the sense that the two cables 344 passing over the pulleys 340 and 342 are attached to the pins 350 of the right and left cable of the fastener 352. The fastener 352 is made from a pair of parallel plates 384 between the which is inserted, and attached thereto, a preload fastener 386 in the shape of an inverted T and attached thereto by a central pin 388. The pins 350 can pivot about the pin 388 in order to compensate for those cases in which one of the two cables 344 is longer than the other. The fastener 386 has a pair of ears 389 that have openings 390 for receiving a pin 392 with its hub 394. The pin 392 and the hub 394 are inserted through an opening 374 in the cam lever 366 before being attached to the ears 389. Once assembled, the lever 366 can pivot around the pin 392. Like the cam lever 366 of FIGS. 24 and 26, the cam lever 366 of FIGS. 27-31 has a cam portion 372 with an arcuate slot 374. The slot 374 cooperates with a pin. of restriction 398 and its hub 400 that are inserted through the openings 402 formed in a pair of lugs 404 formed integrally with the bar 360. The bar 360 is attached to the fastener 386, in slidable form, by inserting a pair of pins 512 through the corresponding oblong holes 406 formed in the upper part of the bar 360 and the circular holes 513 formed in the fastener 386. Each of the holes 406 has a length that allows the pins 512 to move at a distance of approximate 0.95 cm while they are in the holes 406. As shown in Figures 20 and 27-31, the fasteners 382, 386 and the lever 366 are housed between two preload weights 408 and 410 which are joined to each other by a pair of bolts 412 which are inserted in the openings formed in the preload weight 408, the openings 414 formed in the fastener 386 and the threaded openings formed in the rear preload weight 410. The operation of the calibration system of Figures 20 and 27-31 is similar to that described above with respect to the calibration system of Figures 21 and 22. One difference is the use of the preload weights 408 and 410. It is anticipated that when the workstation 300 is initially discharged from its packaging, the bar 360 will not be attached to any of the weights 364. This could cause an imbalance, if the preload weights 408 and 410 were absent, in the sense of that there could be a load on one end of the cables 344 produced by the work surface 366 and its movable assembly as long as no counterbalance load is present at the other ends of the cables 344. The preload weights 408 and 410 solve this problem to be permanently attached to the other ends of the cables 344 and having a combined weight of approximately 13.5 kg that counterbalances the load generated by the work surface and its mobile assembly. If the total weight of the preload weights 408 and 410 are below the amount necessary to counterbalance the load, then one or more of the weights 364 may be permanently attached to the bar 360 so as to provide the extra weight necessary to counterbalance. load. After the work stake 300 has been placed, the user determines the number n of weights 364 that will be supported on the bar 360 to easily move the work surface 336 and any of the objects 413 thereon. Thereafter, the user removes the lower front cover 510 so as to discover the holes 362 and determine whether a hole 362 associated with the nth weight as counted from above is or is not obstructed by the nth weight. If it is determined that the associated hole is obstructed by the nth weight, then a hand-pulling hook 514 pivotally attached to the lever 366 is held so that the cam lever 366 pivots from a vertical direction toward above. The upward pivoting rotation causes the bar 360 to move down relative to the weights 364. The bar 360 moves downward because the rotation of the slot restricts the pin to move downward. Because the pin 398 is indirectly attached to the cables 344, the downward movement of the pin 398 and the bar 360 is allowed because the lengths of the cables 344 are stretched by the upward movement of the lever 366. The pivoting rotation of lever 366 stops when the hole associated with the nth weight remains unobstructed. In this point, a pin 368 is inserted into the non-obstructed hole associated with the nth weight so that a slot 370 of the nth weight 364 rests on the pin 368. Note that the lower front cover 510 is made of plastic material and it has a plurality of vertical tabs on each side which engage the slots 511 formed in the brake rack 310 (see Figure 18). The upper edge of the lower front cover 510 has an indentation for receiving a lower side of an upper front cover 513. The upper front cover 513 has vertical tabs similar to those of the lower front cover 510 which engage with the upper slots 511 of the brake rack 310. In another embodiment, the front cover can be made in one piece in which a lower slot 508 is formed which allows the lever 366 to pivot from one side to the other thereof. Once the pin 368 has been inserted into the unobstructed hole, the lever 366 pivots to the vertical position shown in FIGS. 20, 28 and 29 to keep, without clogging, the lever 366 in the slots. front 371 formed on the weights 364 and allow the lower front cover 510 to be reattached. The user then holds the work surface 366 and moves it to a desired vertical position so that the work surface 366 is lowered, the bar 360 and the joined weight elements are lifted and vice versa. As with the work station of Figures 1-12, work station 300 provides infinite vertical height adjustment capability that provides the advantage of allowing a user to work in their most comfortable position, whether standing, sitting on a chair or sitting on the floor. Preferably, the column 312 has sufficient height to allow the work surface 336 to rise to a point similar to that shown in Figure 2 which allows a user to work comfortably while standing. Preferably, the column 302 is at least about 127 cm in height and the path of the height adjustment mechanism is at least about 55 cm. Most preferably, the column 302 is at least about 172 cm in height and the path of the height adjustment mechanism is at least about 100 cm. Note that although the height adjustment mechanism is manually operated, it can also be motorized by conventional means such as a screw that is rotated or a chain drive mechanism. Note that alternative counterbalance systems can also be used. For example, the cable may be attached directly to the weight elements instead of being indirectly bonded as described above. In another example, weights filled with water can be used and adjusted by the amount of water used. In addition, a compression spring or adjustable tension system could be used. The work surface 336 moves vertically by means of a height adjustment mechanism that is similar to that used for the work surface of Figures 1-12. In particular, the height adjustment mechanism of Figures 13, 20 and 32 includes a mold-cast aluminum carriage 400 having the same dimensions as the carriage 21 of the work station of Figures 1-12. Like the carriage 21, the carriage 348 includes four rolling elements 402, two on each side which are rotatably connected to the carriage 348 by the shaft 516, the ball bearing 518 and the ring 520 in a well-known manner. Each of the rolling elements 402 is adapted to move within, and along, the rails 308 of the extrusions 312. As shown in Figures 32 and 33, each of the rolling elements 402 has a central opening and a Diamond-like shape so as to improve the centering of the rolling elements 402 in the rails 308.

The rolling elements are preferably made from hard plastic material. The carriage 348 preferably includes a brake mechanism for releasably securing the work surface 336 at different heights along the column 302. The preferred form of the brake mechanism is shown in Figures 32 and 34-35. In particular, the brake mechanism includes the pair of vertical racks 310 having rectangular slots 404 spaced equidistantly (see Figure 18). The brake mechanism also includes a pair of latch members 406 that are mounted within the depressions of the corresponding blocks 408, attached to the opposite sides of the carriage 348 by bolts (not shown) inserted through the openings 409 of the carriage 348. and the openings 411 of the block 408. Each of the hooking elements 406 includes one or more male hooking elements 417 that are inclined by means of a spring 410 towards the slots 404 so that each element 416 is inserted into a slot 404 One end of the spring 410 is attached to the edges of an opening 602 of the hook member 406 while the other end of the spring is attached to the edges of the opening 604 of the blocks 408. When the elements 417 are inserted into the slots. 404, the carriage 348 engages a certain height along the column 302. In the engaged position, a pair of lugs 606 of the engaging member 406 engage the edges 608 d. and depressions 610 formed in block 408. The ears 606 and depressions 610 may be in parallel with each other (Figure 34) or displaced from each other (Figure 35). To release the brake mechanism and adjust the height of the work surface 336, the male latch members 416 are pulled back from the slots 404 by the wires actuated by the lever 415 associated with the latch members 406. a cable 415 is inserted through an opening 612 in the block 408 and is attached to the edges of the opening 614 of the engaging element 406. The cables 415 are controlled in a well-known manner by the corresponding pedals (not shown) mounted at the bottom of the central section 418. Alternative braking mechanisms can also be used. For example, the brake mechanisms of Figures 7 and 7a can be used to replace each of the brake mechanisms of Figures 34-37. Another possibility is to use the brake mechanism in combination with a device that limits the speed 230, previously described, in order to prevent the work surface from suddenly changing height. In Figures 50-53 another possibility for a brake mechanism is shown. The brake mechanism is similar to that described above with respect to Figures 34-37 in the sense that the brake mechanism 700 has one or more engaging elements 702 having one or more male elements 704 that selectively engage. to the rectangular slots 404 of the vertical zippers 310.

As shown in Fig. 50, a latch member 702 is mounted within an area 706 limited by a pair of comb spacers 708 (Fig. 51) welded to a mounting plate 7 0 (Fig. 52). The comb spacers, 708, have openings 711 that are aligned with the corresponding openings 713 of the mounting plate 710. The bolts are inserted into the aligned openings 7 1 and 713 so as to attach the braking mechanism 700 to the carriage 348 in a manner similar to the joining of the brake mechanism of Figures 34-37 with the carriage 348. The engagement member 702 has a pair of lugs 712 which are inserted into the depressions 714 of the area 706. The ears 712 and the depressions 714 control the translation movement of the engaging elements 702 in a manner similar to that of the ears 606 and depressions 610 of the brake mechanism of Figures 34-37. In addition to controlling the movement of translation, the braking mechanism 700 controls the pivoting movement of the engagement member 702 by means of a depression 716 formed in the engagement member 702 and a pair of brake compensators 718 (the lower brake compensator not shown) which are mirror images one of the other (figure 53). As shown in Figure 50, the brake compensators 718 are pivotally attached to the mounting plate 710 by a pin 720 and a spring 722 attached at point A of the brake compensator 718 and at point B of the plate. 710. The ears 712 have a length of approximately 0.3 cm and the depressions 714 have a length of approximately 0.16 cm and a depth of approximately 0.57 cm. The depression 716 has a length of approximately 1.29 cm and a depth of approximately 0.12 cm. The spring 722 has a natural length of approximately 2.54 cm and a spring constant of approximately 19.56 kg / cm. During operation, when the male elements 704 are inserted into the slots 404 and the front load on the work surface 336 is greater than the load of the weights 364, the carriage 348 will tend to move downwardly. The downward movement causes the latching element 702 to pivot upwardly around the upper protrusion 724 so that the male elements 704 become unbalanced in the sense that they are no longer centered within the slots 404. The pivoting rotation of the latching element 702 causes the latching element 702 to push up against the surface 726 of the brake compensator 718 which resists the upward thrust by means of the spring 722. Therefore, if the difference in the frontal load and the weights 364 does not is very large (less than 7,395 kg), then the spring 722 prevents the depression 716 from rising a sufficient distance so that it has the surface 728 of the upper comb spacer 708 inserted within the depression 716. In such case, the male elements 704 can be removed from the slots 404 by the lever-operated cables 415 and paddles even when the latch member 702 is unbalanced. In case the front load exceeds by weight the weights 364 by more than 7,395 kg, then the nominal force on the engaging member 702 overcomes the downward deflection of the spring 722 and the surface 728 enters the depression 716. In this way, the latching element 702 and the male elements 704 are prevented from coming out of the slots 404. In the event that the weights 364 exceed by weight the front load on the work surface 336, then the latching element 702 is rotated towards down near the lower protrusion 730 so that the lower brake compensator 718 acts on the latch member 702 in the same manner as the upper brake compensator 718 operates, as described above. Another possibility for a brake mechanism is shown in Figures 54-65. The brake mechanism is similar to that described above with respect to Figures 50-53 wherein the brake mechanism 900 has one or more latch members 902 having one or more male elements 904 that selectively engage the rectangular slots 404 of the vertical zippers 310. As shown in FIG. 54, a latching element 902 is mounted within an area 906 joined by a pair of vertical comb spacers 908 (FIGS. 54-56) integrally formed with a latching plate. assembly 910. The mounting plate 910 has openings 911 that are aligned with the corresponding openings of the carriage 348. Bolts or spacers 915 are inserted into the aligned openings so as to attach the braking mechanism 900 to the carriage 348 in a manner similar to the joining of the brake mechanism of Figures 50-53 with the carriage 348. As shown in Figures 54, 57 and 58, the latch member 902 has a pair of rearwardly-lowered lugs 912 that they have a length of approximately 1.09 cm and protrude from the sides 917 of the hooking element 902 by approximately 0.30 cm. The lugs 912 and the vertical comb spacers 908 control the translation movement of the latch member 902 as will be described below. further, the braking mechanism 900 controls the pivoting movement of the engaging element 902 by a pair of brake compensators, such as a spring 918 and sliders 931, which are identical to each other and mirror images of one another (Figure 54). As shown in Figures 54 and 65, a pair of bars 919 are inserted into the holes 921 formed in the mounting plate 910 where an outer end 923 of the bar 910 is attached to a vertical flange 925 which is formed in a manner integral from the mounting plate 910. The springs 918 enclose the bars 919 as shown in Figure 54. As shown in Figures 54 and 65, an inner end 927 of each bar 919 opens radially outwardly from the main body of the bar so as to act as a stop with respect to the movement of a slider 931. As shown in Figures 54 and 59-61, an end portion of each spring 918 extends into a channel 929 and is attached to a post 930 formed in a respective slider 931. The springs 919 engage the sliders 931 and engage the sliders 931 with compression so that the sliders 931 move and engage the sides 917 of the latch element 902. In addition to being diverted, By the sliders 931, a spring 939 biases the latch member 902 toward the vertical zippers 3 0 having one end attached to a notch 941 of the latch member 902 and another end attached to the hole 943 formed in the mounting plate 910. The backward movement of the latch member 902 is inhibited by a slider lock 945 shown in Figs. 54 and 62-64. The slider lock 945 has a rectangular guide 947 which is inserted and permanently attached to a slot 949 formed in the mounting plate 910. The slider lock 945 has a vertical post 950 that is inserted into a shaped opening triangular 952 formed in the latch member 902 so that the rear end 954 of the latch member 902 is between the post 950 and the abutment surface 956 of the slider latch 945 as shown in figures 54 and 57-58 . In operation, when the male elements 904 are inserted into the slots 404 and the forward load on the work surface 336 is greater than the load of the weights 364, the carriage 648 will tend to move downwardly. The downward movement causes the latching element 902 to rotate upwardly so that the male elements 904 are unbalanced, since they are not in the center within the slots 404. By rotating the latching element 902 the element is made of engagement 902 push the surface of the upper slider 931 resisting upward pressure by its corresponding spring 918. In this way, if the difference between the front load and the weights 364 is not so great, then the spring 918 prevents the element of engagement is raised a sufficient distance so that the lugs 912 of the hooking element 902 can pass between the area 906 joined by the pair of vertical comb spacers 908. In such a case, the male elements 904 can be removed from the slots 404 by the cables driven by the lever 415 and the vanes, even when the latching element 902 is unbalanced. In the case where the front load exceeds by weight the weights 364 by more than 7,395 kg, then the force on the engaging member 902 overcomes the downward deflection of the spring 918 and, the lugs 912 of the engaging member 902 can not pass between the comb spacers 908. In this way, the engagement element 902 and the male elements 904 are prevented from coming out of the slots 404. In case the weights 364 exceed by weight the front load on the work surface 336, then the latch members 902 rotate downwardly so that the lower spring 918 and the slider 931 act on the latch member 902 in the same manner that the upper spring and the slider operate on the latch member 902 as described above.

Note that the slider lock 945 limits the translation movement of the latch member 902. For example, when the cables 415 are not actuated, the spring 939 presses the latch member 902 toward the zipper 310. Since the latch post Slider 950 is within opening 952, movement of latch member 902 toward rack 310 continues until post 950 engages the rear part of opening 952. Similarly, when cables 415 are actuated, the movement of the element of latch 902 away from the rack 310 continues until the post 950 engages the forward end of the opening 952. A further possibility for the brake mechanism is shown in Figs. 76-82. The brake mechanism is similar to that described above with respect to Figures 54-65 wherein the brake mechanism 900 has one or more latch members 902 having one or more male elements 904 that selectively engage the rectangular slots 404 of the vertical zippers 310. A difference with the brake mechanism of Figures 54-65 is that the brake mechanism of Figures 66-82 does not use the pair of vertical comb spacers 908 (see Figures 54-56) formed integrally with the mounting plate 910. The mounting plate 910 of the brake mechanism of Figures 66-82 has openings 911 which align with the corresponding openings of the carriage 348. Bolts or spacers (not shown) are inserted in the openings aligned so as to attach the braking mechanism 900 to the carriage 348 in a manner similar to the joining of the brake mechanism of Figures 54-65 with the carriage 348. As shown in Figures 66, 71 and 72, the elem Hitch 902 has a pair of backward lugs 912 that have a length of about 1.09 cm and protrude from the sides 917 of the hitch 902 about 0.363 cm. The brake mechanism 900 controls the pivoting and translational movement of the engaging member 902 by a pair of brake compensators, such as a spring 918 and sliders 931, which are identical to each other and mirror images of each other (FIGS. 66) . As shown in Fig. 66, a pair of bars 919 are inserted into holes 921 formed in the mounting plate 910, where an outer end 923 of the bar 910 is welded to a vertical flange 925 that is integrally formed from the mounting plate. assembly 910. Springs 918 surround bars 919 as shown in figure 66. As shown in figure 66, an end portion of each spring 918 extends into a channel 929 and is attached to a post 930 formed in a respective 931 slider. The springs 919 engage the sliders 931 and engage the sliders 931 with compression so that the sliders 931 move and engage the sides 917 of the latch member 902. In addition to being deflected by the sliders 931, the latch 912 is biased toward the vertical zippers 310 by a spring 939 having one end attached to a notch 941 of the latch member 902 and another end attached to the mounting plate 910. The rearward movement of the latch member 902 is inhibited by a slider latch 945 shown in Figures 66 and 76-78. The slider lock 945 has a rectangular guide 947 that is permanently inserted and attached to a slot 949 formed in the mounting plate 910. The slider lock 945 has a vertical post 950 that is inserted into an opening with a rectangular form 952 formed in the latch member 902, so that the rear end 954 of the latch member 902 is between the post 950 and the abutment surface 956 of the slider latch 945, as shown in Figs. 66 and 71-72. During operation, when the male elements 904 are inserted into the slots 404 and the anterior load of the work surface 336 is greater than the load of the weights 364, the carriage 348 will tend to move downward. The downward movement causes the latch member 902 to rotate upwardly so that the male elements 904 are unbalanced, since they are not centered within the slots 404. Rotating the latch member 902 causes the latch 902 to engage. press the surface of the upper slider 931 which resists upward pressure by its corresponding spring 918. A visual indicator system 1000 is used to inform the user of the workstation whether the male elements are unbalanced or not. As shown in Figures 66 and 79-82, the visual indicator system 1000 includes a cable 1002 attached to one of the sliders 931 and that is attached to the hidden part of the work surface 336 as shown in Figure 79. The other end of the cable 1002 is inserted into an indicator housing 1004 and is attached to a visual indicator 1006, such as a black annular part 1008. As shown in Figure 82, the annular member 1008 is not attached to any other element different from the cable 1002. The annular part 1008 is visible to the user through a transparent plastic window 1010 having three color zones 1012, 1014 and 1016 as shown schematically in figure 82. In the embodiment of figure 82, the zones with color 1012 and 1016 preferably have a red color and their lengths are equal. The color zone 1014 is preferably green and lies between the color zones 1012 and 1016. In a second mode of the window 1010, the green zone 1014 has the shape of a hexagon, while the remaining portion of the window 1010 is red. When the annular piece 1008 is near the right and left tips 1018 and 1020 of the hexagonal zone 1014 the user receives an alert that the brake mechanism is in a decompensated condition. If the difference between the forward load and the weights 364 is not so great (with a variation of 7.25-9.52 kg), then the annular piece 1008 will be within the green zone 1014 of the window 1010. This indicates that has achieved a balanced condition for the brake mechanism. In such a case, the male elements 904 can be removed from the slots 404 by the lever-operated cables 415 and vanes, even when the latch member 902 is unbalanced. In case the difference between the front load and the weights 364 is more than 7.25-9.52 kg, the latching element 902 and the male elements 904 are prevented from being withdrawn from the slots 404. This unbalanced condition is brought to the user by the annular part 108 which is in one of the red areas 1012, 1016. Depending on which red area the annular part 108 is located, the user must adjust the load or the weights so that the cable 1002 moves so that the annular piece 1008 moves within the green zone 1014 of the window 11 12. For example, if too much weight is present on the work surface 336, the annular piece will move towards the red zone 1012 towards the left of the green zone 1014. Then the user will recognize that the brake mechanism is unbalanced when the annular part 1008 is placed in the zone 1012. The user will correct the decompensated condition by removing weight from the supe working surface and / or adding weights 364 until the annular part 1008 moves near the center of the green zone 1014. The center of the green zone 1014 represents a perfectly balanced brake mechanism. Similarly, if very little weight is present on the work surface 336, the annular part will move towards the red area 1016 to the right of the green zone 1014. The user will then recognize that the braking mechanism is decompensated when the annular member 1008 is placed in the area 1016. The user will correct the decompensated condition by adding weight to the work surface and / or by removing weights 364 until the annular member 1008 moves near the center of the green zone 1014 Note that other indicators 1006 are also possible. For example, the cable 1002 can be attached to a sound generator where the movement of the cable 1002 will cause the sound generator to generate one or more types of sound when the brake mechanism is unbalanced and will generate a different type of sound when the brake mechanism is compensated. Note that the slider lock 945 limits the translation movement of the latch member 902 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the embodiment of Figs. 54-65. For example, when the cables 415 are not actuated, the spring 939 presses the latch member 902 toward the zipper 310. Since the post of the slider latch 950 is within the aperture 952, the movement of the latch member 902 toward the zipper 310 continues until the post 950 engages the rear side of the opening 952. Similarly, when the cables 415 are actuated, movement of the latch member 902 away from the zipper 310 continues until the post 950 engages the end anterior of opening 952. In summary, the brake mechanisms of Figures 50-65 are intelligent because they are capable of engaging so that they can be automatically released from slots 404 based on the amount of weight supported by the work surface. and the total amount of weights 364 in the counterbalance system. The brake mechanism of Figures 66-82 provides a simple structure that allows the user to visually identify when the work surface is compensated in an acceptable manner and if not, easily adjust the load or weights until a compensated condition is achieved. As shown in Figures 20 and 32, attached to the carriage 348 is a die-cast aluminum fastener 412 that supports the work surface 336 thereon, via angle fasteners 419 located in the side flanges of the fastener 412. The fastener 412 is attached to the carriage 348 by six screws (not shown) inserted into aligned holes 522 and 524 of the fastener 412 and carriage 448 and the three nut plates 526. Like the fastener 35 of FIGS. 1-12, the fastener 412 includes a bottom plate 414 and flanges 416 cooperating to support the center section 418 of the work surface 436. Specifically, the arrangement is designed so that the center section 418 can slide the fastener 412 thereby allowing the user to adjust the depth of the section 418. Note that the work surface 336 and the center section 418 can have a variety of shapes as shown in figure 33 and can be made from a variety of matte Durable materials, such as steel, aluminum or a composite material made of wood / plastic chipboard and HTPL. The work surface 336 may have an anterior edge that is made of plastic.The fastener 412 is preferably configured to support an elevated platform 420 on the upper part of the fastener 412. The platform 420 is structurally similar to the platform 63 of Figures 1 to 12 and is preferably configured so as to be adjustable in shape. height and depth. As illustrated, this is preferably achieved by providing a series of front holes 422 and back holes 424 on platform 420. Bolts or nails are inserted through the anterior holes 426 on the fastener 412 and one of the anterior holes 422 in the platform 420. Likewise, bolts or nails are inserted through back holes 428 in the fastener 412 and one of the rear holes 424 in the platform 420. In this way, the depth of the height, and even the angle of platform 420 can be adjusted relative to the rest of the work surface 336. A work surface 600, such as that shown in figure 38 and similar in structure to work surface 336, can be attached to the upper part of the work surface. platform 420. In the manner described above with respect to the workstation of Figures 1-12, platform 420 preferably supports a computer monitor and / or keyboard 429. Alternatively, A 420 platform can be made large enough to hold two or more computer monitors. Belts such as belts 14 can be included to secure monitors or other equipment on platform 420. The above description shows how the invention of Figures 13-38 provides a work station 300 that can easily adjust the position of a work surface. 336 over a wide range of positions. Workstation 300 also provides the advantage of being compressible and compactable to be moved easily from one room to another. The structure that provides the advantage is mentioned later. As shown in Figures 14-15 and 20, the base 304 has four rolling elements 430 attached to the four corners of the base 304. The base 304 also has two generally identical horizontal legs 432, 434 rotatably joined to both previous corners of the base. As shown in Figure 39, axes 436 of the anterior rolling elements 430 are inserted through the rollers 526 and the anterior openings 438 of the base 304 and are inserted into the lower rear openings 440 of the legs 432, 434. In addition, pins 441 are inserted through the openings 443 of the L-shaped elements 314 and the anterior openings 438 of the base 304. The legs 432 and 434 rotate about the axes 436 between a position of use and a compacted position. . In the position of use, similar to that shown in Figures 1-3, legs 432 and 434 are spaced apart from each other thus avoiding interference with the user's feet or chair. In the compacted position, similar to that shown in Figure 4, the legs 432 and 434 are rotated towards each other to allow the work station 300 to pass through an entrance, preferably an entrance of 76.2 cm. . The legs 432, 434 include rolling elements 442 so that in combination with the rolling elements 430 of the base, the work station 300 can be easily moved along a floor. Most preferably, the rolling elements 430 and 442 are small, omnidirectional pivoting wheels. Alternatively, the rolling elements can be wheels. Preferably, at least some of the rolling elements are equipped with a conventional brake. Naturally, the rolling elements must be capable of rolling over several types of floors and minor obstacles. The legs 432 and 434 are locked either in the use position or in the compacted position by a lever 444 which is rotatably connected to a male element 446 by a lifting bar 528 and pin 530. The lifting bar 528 is inserted through an opening 531 that extends through the leg and is inserted and attached within an opening 532 of the male element 446 by a pair of fasteners 434 that are inserted into grooves 536 that are positioned above and below the male element 446. The male element 446 is deflected downwardly by a spring 538 which is housed in an opening 540 of the leg and centered around a projection 542 on the upper part of the male element 446. The vertical movement of the male element 446 is ensured by a guide bar 544 that moves within an opening 546 of the leg. The guide bar 544 is attached within a second opening 548 of the male element 446 by fasteners 550 and grooves 552 in a manner similar to the attachment of the fasteners 534 and the grooves 536. Lifting the lever 444 causes the male element 446 to be raised in the leg housing and lowering the lever 444 causes the male element 443 to be lowered below the leg housing. In the operation, the legs 432 and 434 are placed on a first pair of latching elements related to the position of use, such as the openings 448 formed in the base 302. In the position of use, the levers 444 of the legs 430 and 442 are drops causing the male elements 446 to enter the openings 448 and locking the legs in the position of use. Locking the legs in the use position improves the stability of the work station 300 during use. If the legs 432 and 434 are to be moved to the compacted position, the levers 444 are rotated upwardly to lift the male elements 446 out of the openings 448. The legs 432 and 434 are rotated inwardly on the projections 450 and are placed on a second pair of latching elements related to the compacted position, such as the openings 452 formed in the base 302. Once placed in the compacted position, the levers 444 are lowered so that the male elements 446 are inserted in the openings 452 for locking the legs in the compacted position. Locking the legs in the compacted position helps prevent accidental movement and wobbling of the legs during the translation movement of the work station. Another way to lock legs 432 and 434 is shown in Figures 83-85. As shown in Figure 83, a pair of metal plates 800 (only one is shown) are attached to the underside of the base 304 by bolts inserted through the openings 802. The metal plate 800 has a pair of openings 804 and 806 that extend beyond the edge of the base 304. The openings 804 and 806 function similarly to the openings 448 and 452, respectively, since they provide openings for a male element to be found therethrough. when the legs are going to be placed and locked in the positions of use and compacted. One embodiment of a male element is the vertical movement bar 808 shown in FIG. 83. The bar 808 is attached to a rotating arm 810 by a pin 812. The rotary arm 810 is placed inside a longitudinal groove 812 formed in each leg 432, 434 to extend end to end along the length of the leg where the round end 814 is positioned closer to the center of the leg than to the cam end 816. As shown in Figure 83, the cam end 816 of swivel arm 810 has an opening 818 for receiving pin 812 for attaching bar 808 thereto. The cam end 816 also has a curved or cammed surface 818 that faces downward and is approximately 6.19 cm long and approximately 1.11 cm deep. The swivel arm 810 is trapped within the slot 812 by a metal bracket 820 that is attached to the underside of the leg 432, 434 by four shoulder bolts 822 that are inserted through the corresponding bracket slots 824 and openings hooks 826 formed in the lower part of the leg. The sheaves 828 and spacers 830 are used to also join the bolts 822. The bolts 822 and the slots 824 allow the bracket 820 to travel along the lower surface of the leg 432, 434. Once the bracket 820 is attached a rolling element or liner 832 of the bracket 820 is brought into contact with the cammed surface 818. Further, a spring (not shown) is inserted into a leg opening 834 to come into contact with the upper edge of the rotating arm 810 to deflect the arm 810 downwardly and toward the bottom of the leg 432, 434. In operation, the legs 432 and 434 are placed on a first pair of latching elements related to the position of use, such as the openings 804 formed in the base 304. In the position of use, the bracket 820 is slid toward the opening 804 (on the left as shown in Figure 83) so that the liner 832 engages the cam portion 818 plus near the end 816. In this position, the spring pushes the bar 808 downward so that its beveled end 836 is inserted into the opening 804. If the legs 432 and 434 are to be moved to the compacted position, the bracket 820 is slid away from the opening 804 in a manner that the liner 832 runs on the cammed surface 818 which causes the rotary arm 810 to rotate around the end 814 so that the arm 810 and the bar 808 save the spring and move up and away from the bottom of the leg 432, 434. The legs 432 and 434 are rotated inwards and are placed on a second pair of latching elements related to the compacted position, such as the openings 806. Once placed in the compacted position, the brackets 820 are slid. towards the openings 806 so that the bars 808 for each leg are inserted into the openings 806 to lock the legs in the compacted position. Another way to compact the work station 300 to move through an inlet is to engage the right side 454 and the left side 456 of the work surface 336. This is done by joining two hinges 458 to the sides of the bracket 412. Together to hinges 458 are the right side 454 and the left side 456 of the work surface 336. As a result, the sides 454 and 456 can be moved between a horizontal position (see figures 1-3 and 13A-B as an example). ) to a compacted or vertical position (see figures 4 and 13C as an example), thus making it easier to pass work station 300 through an entrance. As with the work station of Figures 1-12, the sides can alternatively be made to rotate horizontally to rotate in a retracted position. Also, the sides can be made to separate them and reassemble them easily to provide compactness so that the work station passes through entrances. In the position of use, rotating supports 460 and 462 are provided to support the lower surfaces of the sides 454 and 456, respectively. The rotating supports 460 and 462 have the same shape and structure as the legs 432 and 434 shown in Figures 39-44 or Figures 83-85. However, the supports 460 and 462 are upside down when compared to the legs 432 and 434. The bolts (not shown) are inserted through the openings 464 formed in the lugs 466 of the carriage 348, through the openings upper backs 468 of the supports 460, 462 and through the liners 524. The supports 460 and 462 rotate about the pins between a use position and a compacted position. In the position of use, the supports 460, 462 are spaced apart from one another so that their leveling guides 470 are below and support the sides 454 and 456, respectively, thereon. The leveling guides 470 are threadably engaged to an opening in the supports so that the rotation of the guides causes the sides to move relative to the central section 418 until the sides 454 and 456 are at the level of the central section 418. In the compacted position, the supports 460, 462 are rotated towards each other to allow the work station 300 to pass through an inlet, preferably a 76.2 cm inlet. Note that before the supports 460, 462 are moved to the compacted position, the sides 454 and 456 are moved to the compacted or vertical position. In case of using the structure of legs 432, 434 of figures 39-44, supports 460 and 462 are locked either in their use position or in the compacted position by means of lever 444 and male element 446. Because the supports 460, 462 are upside down in relation to the legs 432 and 434, lowering the lever 444 away from the housing of the supports causes the male element 446 to be moved in the leg housing and lift the lever 444 towards the housing of the leg. support causes the male element 446 to be lifted out of the support housing. In the operation, the supports 460 and 462 are placed below a first pair of latching elements related to the position of use, such as the openings 464 formed in the lower surface of the bracket 412. In the position of use, the levers 444 of the supports 460 and 462 are raised towards the housing of the supports, causing the male elements 446 to enter the openings 464 and locking the supports in the position of use. If the supports 460 and 462 are to be moved to the compacted position, the levers 444 are rotated downwards to lift the male elements 446 out of the openings 464. The supports 460 and 462 are rotated inwardly on the projections 466 and they are placed on a second pair of latching elements related to the position of use, such as the openings 468 formed in the lower surface of the bracket 412. Once placed in the compacted position, the levers 444 are lifted towards the housings of the supports- so that the male elements 446 are inserted in the openings 468. In the case of using the structure of the legs 432, 434 of the figures 83-85, the supports 460 and 462 are locked either in the position of use or in the compacted position by the bracket 820 and the bar 808. Moving the bracket 820 longitudinally towards the center of the bracket causes the bar 808 to be moved in the bracket housing and move the bracket 82 0 away from the center of the support causes the bar 808 to be lifted by the spring out of the support housing. In operation, the supports 460 and 462 are placed below a first pair of latching elements related to the position of use, such as the openings 464 formed in the lower surface of the bracket 412. In the position of use, the corbels 820 are slid away from the center of the brackets causing the bars 808 to enter the openings 464 and locking the brackets in the use position. If the supports 460 and 462 are to be moved to the compacted position, the brackets 820 are slid towards the center of the support causing the spring to rotate the rotary arm 810 and the bar 808 downwards to remove the bars 808 out of the openings 464. The supports 460 and 462 are rotated inward and are placed on a second pair of latching elements related to the position of use, such as the openings 468 formed in the lower surface of the bracket 402. Once placed on the In the compacted position, the brackets 820 are slid away from the center of the supports so that the bars 808 are inserted into the openings 468. The support plates 554 can be joined within depressions 556 formed in the lower portions of the sides 454 and 456 and the center section 418 in a manner similar to the joining of the support plates of Figure 8. These plates serve to support the center section, in particular as it slips. inside and outside the bracket 412.

The work station 300 also preferably includes deployment panels 470 and 472 that are supported above the work surface 336 and are adapted to move up and down with the work surface. These panels 470 and 472 are preferably equipped with fasteners 474 or the like to hold papers or other objects for the user of the work station. Preferably, the deployment panels 470 and 472 are supported on identical bent bars 476 and 478 as shown in Figures 46 and 47. Most preferably, the deployment panels are rotatably attached to the bars to be adjustable between a position vertical and a horizontal position, and to be adjustable between a position of use (see figures 1-3 and 13A-B as an example) and a compacted position (see figures 4 and 13C as an example). As shown in Figs. 20 and 49, the adjustment between the vertical and horizontal positions is preferably made with a rotary adjusting element 480 having a channel stop 556 receiving a pivot rod 558 which is received in a channel formed on one side of the deployment panels 470 and 472. The adjustment element 480 has a lug 560 that is frictionally engaged to an O-ring attached at one end 562 of the bent die-cast bars 476 and 478. The lug 560 and end 562 have threaded openings that are aligned with each other and receive a threaded lock handle 564 therein. The bars 476 and 478 each have an end 566 having a latching surface 482 having alternating ridges and channels arranged in a ring like the flanges and channels of a poker chip. The flanges of the hooking surface 482 engage the channels of a similarly shaped hooking surface 484 of an L-shaped bracket 486 (see Figure 48) which is mounted to the rear outer edges of the bracket 412. The end 566 and bracket 486 have threaded openings aligned with one another and centered with the ring of flanges and channels. A threaded lock handle 568 is inserted into the aligned apertures of end 566 and bracket 486. Bars 476 and 478 together with adjustment member 480 and bracket 486 provide up / down adjustment of panels 470 and 472. be in a vertical or horizontal position. The horizontal adjustment is provided by rotating the deployment panels 470 and 472 around the pivot bar 558. The vertical adjustment is provided either by rotating the deployment panels 470 and 472 about an axis aligned with the opening of the adjustment element. 480 and tightening the locking handle 564 to the desired vertical position. The vertical adjustment can also be made by rotating the bars 476 and 478 about an axis aligned with the opening of the bracket 486 and tightening the locking handle 568. In addition to adjusting the positions of the deployment panels 470 and 472, the bars 476 and 478 of bracket 486 reduce obstruction to the rear areas of sides 454 and 456. Workstation 300 may also include lamps similar to lamps 122 and 124 of the embodiment of Figures 1-12 which are mounted to the display panels 470 and 472 for moving up and down with the work surface 17. Other equipment for the user may also be mounted to the workstation, such as a telephone or audio speakers. The foregoing description is provided to illustrate the invention, and should not be construed as a limitation. Numerous additions, substitutions and other changes to the invention can be made without departing from its scope as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (1)

1. NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS 1. - A work station that includes: a column; a height adjustment mechanism adapted to traverse the length of a column upwards or downwards, and set at desired positions; a brake mechanism for fixing the position of the height adjustment mechanism automatically releasably engaging said vertical column, based on the amount of weight supported by said adjustment mechanism, wherein the adjustment mechanism comprises a latching element mounted within an area limited by a pair of spacers. 2 - The work station according to claim 1, which includes a work surface attached to the height adjustment mechanism. 3. The work station according to claim 1, further characterized in that the hook element rotates pivotally, and the brake element controls the pivoting movement of said hook element. 4. The work station according to claim 1, further characterized in that the latching element performs a translation movement, and the brake mechanism controls the translation movement of said latching element. 5. - The work station according to claim 3, further characterized in that the latching element performs a translation movement, and the brake mechanism controls the translation movement of said latching element. 6. - The work station according to claim 3, comprising a brake compensator that generates a force that counteracts the pivoting movement of the hooking element. 7. - The workstation according to claim 6, further characterized in that when said generated force exceeds said pivoting movement, the latching element can not be released from the vertical column. 8. - The workstation according to claim 6, further characterized in that when said generated force does not exceed said pivoting movement, the latching element can be released from the vertical column. 9. - The workstation according to claim 7, further characterized in that when said generated force exceeds said pivoting movement, the latching element can not be released from the vertical column. 10. - The work station according to claim 1, further characterized in that the brake includes a frame mounted on the vertical column, and a hook element led to engage with the frame. 11. - The work station according to claim 10, further characterized in that the hooking element comprises a male hook member that is inserted into a slot formed in the frame. 12.- The workstation in accordance with the claim 1, further characterized in that the height adjustment mechanism comprises a first rail and a second rail. 13. - The work station according to claim 12, further characterized in that the height adjustment mechanism includes a first wheel that rotates within the first rail, and a second wheel that rotates within the second rail. 14. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 2, further characterized in that the height adjustment mechanism comprises a weight counterbalance system, to help raise the work surface and the equipment therein. 15. - The work station according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises a brake compensator that engages one side of the hooking element. 16. - The workstation according to claim 15, further characterized in that said brake compensator includes a spring. 17. - The work station according to claim 15, further characterized in that the brake compensator causes a portion of the hook element to enter a depression formed in the limited area. 18. - The workstation according to claim 17, further characterized in that said portion is a lug formed in the hooking element. 19. - The workstation according to claim 15, further characterized in that it includes a second brake compensator that is a mirror image of said brake compensator. 20. - The workstation according to claim 15, further characterized in that the brake compensator causes the coupling element to pass between said spacers. 21. - A workstation that includes: a column; a height adjustment mechanism adapted to travel up or down the length of a column, and fix it in desired positions; a mechanism for fixing the position of the height adjustment mechanism, and which releasably engages said column, further characterized in that the brake mechanism comprises an indicating system that indicates to a user whether that brake mechanism is balanced or not. 22. - The work station according to claim 21, comprising a work surface attached to the height adjustment mechanism. 23. - The work station according to claim 21, further characterized in that the brake comprises a latching element. 24. - The workstation according to claim 23, further characterized in that the latching element rotates pivotally, and the brake mechanism controls the pivoting movement of said latching element. 25. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 23, further characterized in that the engaging element performs a translation movement, and the brake mechanism controls the translation movement of said engaging element. 26. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 24, further characterized in that the engaging element performs a translation movement, and the brake mechanism controls the translation movement of said engaging element. 27. - The workstation according to claim 24, comprising a brake compensator that generates a force that counteracts the pivoting movement of the latching element. 28. - The workstation according to claim 27, further characterized in that when said generated force exceeds said pivoting movement, the latching element can not be released from the vertical column. 29. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 27, further characterized in that when said generated force does not exceed said pivoting movement, the engaging element can be released from the vertical column. 30.- The workstation in accordance with the claim 28, further characterized in that when said generated force does not exceed said pivoting movement, the engaging element can be released from the vertical column. 31. - The work station according to claim 21, further characterized in that the brake includes a frame mounted on the vertical column, and a latching element biased towards engagement with the frame. 32. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 31, further characterized in that the engaging element comprises a male engaging member that is inserted into a slot formed in the frame. 33. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 32, further characterized in that the height adjustment mechanism comprises a weight counterbalance system, to help raise the work surface and the equipment therein. 34. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 33, further characterized in that it comprises a brake compensator that engages one side of the engaging element. 35. - The work station according to claim 34, further characterized in that said brake compensator includes a spring. 36. - The workstation according to claim 34, further characterized in that it includes a second brake compensator that is a mirror image of said brake compensator. 37. - The workstation according to claim 21, further characterized in that the indicating system is a visual indicator system. 38. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 37, further characterized in that it comprises a brake compensator that engages the engaging element; and said visual indicator system comprises: a cable attached to said brake compensator; and a window that allows the user to see a portion of said cable. 39. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 38, further characterized in that the window comprises a zone indicating that the brake mechanism is balanced when said portion of cable is within that zone. 40. - The workstation according to claim 38, further characterized in that the window comprises a zone indicating that the brake mechanism is not balanced when said portion of cable is within that zone. 41. - The workstation in accordance with the claim 40, further characterized in that the window comprises a second zone indicating that the brake mechanism is balanced when said portion of cable is within that second zone. 42.- The workstation in accordance with the claim 41, further characterized in that said first and second zones are of different colors to differentiate them from each other. 43.- The work station according to claim 39, further characterized in that said area is in the form of a hexagon. 44.- A method for balancing a brake mechanism, which fixes the position of a height adjustment mechanism, adapted to travel a length of a column downward or upward, including: detection of a rolling force applied to an element of engagement of said brake mechanism, and that counteracts the pivoting rotation of said engaging element; and indication to a user about whether the brake mechanism is balanced, based on said detection. 45. - The method according to claim 44, which includes a work surface attached to the height adjustment mechanism. 46. - The method according to claim 44, further characterized in that said indication comprises a visual indication to the user about whether said brake mechanism is balanced, based on said detection. 47. - The method according to claim 46, further characterized in that said indication is to see through the window whether or not the visual indicator is within a zone of said window representing a balanced condition of said brake mechanism. 48. The method according to claim 47, further characterized in that the visual indicator is not within that area, and then the user performs the steps to balance said brake mechanism. 49. - The method according to claim 45, further characterized in that said indication comprises a visual indication to the user about whether said brake mechanism is balanced, based on said detection. 50. - The method according to claim 49, further characterized in that said indication is to see through the window whether or not the visual indicator is within an area of said window representing a balanced condition of said brake mechanism. 51. - The method according to claim 50, further characterized in that if said visual indicator is not within that area, then the user adds or removes weights from said adjustment mechanism, until the visual indicator is within that area. 52. The method according to claim 50, further characterized in that if said visual indicator is not within that zone, then the user adds or removes weights from the adjustment mechanism, until the visual indicator is within that zone. 53. - The method according to claim 51, further characterized in that if said visual indicator is not within that zone, then the user adds or removes weights from the adjustment mechanism, until the visual indicator is within that zone.