WO2020219740A1

WO2020219740A1 - Work surface with a functional display

Info

Publication number: WO2020219740A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/029609
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun; Michael Anthony APOLLONI; David James Prince; Saeb Salih Asamarai; Matthew J. JANECHEK; Charles S. CHRIS Jr.
Original assignee: Ergotron, Inc.
Priority date: 2019-04-25
Filing date: 2020-04-23
Publication date: 2020-10-29

Abstract

A workstation having an integrated electronic display is described. The workstation includes a work surface to support work material (e.g., notepad, pen, notebook computer, a display terminal, or the like). An electronic display is integrated in to the workstation to perform display functions such as writing, drawing, calculating, messaging.

Description

WORK SURFACE WITH A FUNCTIONAL DISPLAY

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This patent application claims the benefit of priority of Ergun, et al. U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 62/838,597, entitled

“WORKSURFACE WITH A FUNCTIONAL DISPLAY,” filed on April 25, 2019 (Attorney Docket No 5983.444PRV), which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This document pertains generally, but not by way of limitation, to a work surface combined with graphical display components.

BACKGROUND

Workstations can be freestanding (e.g., supported by a floor or by a desktop), coupled to a structure (e.g., a wall), or mobile (e.g., attached to a wheeled base). The workstation can include a work surface, and the work surface can allow a user to accomplish one or more tasks (e.g., writing, typing, manufacturing operations, or the like). The workstation can include either a mechanical height adjustment mechanism (e.g., a linkage, a gas spring, an extension spring, or the like), or a motorized height adjustment mechanism (e.g., an electric motor), or it can be positioned at a fixed height

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings are illustrative of particular embodiments of the present invention and therefore do not limit the scope of the invention. The drawings are not to scale and are intended for use in conjunction with the explanations in the following detailed description. Embodiments of the presort invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example of a height adjustable workstation.

Figure 2 is a perspective view of another example of a height adjustable workstation with an electronic display.

Figure 3 is a front view of an example riser with a height adjustment mechanism.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of another example of a height adjustable woikstation in an elevated position.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of an example of a height adjustable table in an elevated position.

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the height adjustable table of Figure 5 in a contracted position.

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the height adjustable table of Figure 5 in a contracted position.

Figure 8 is a perspective view of an example of a height adjustable workstation.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of another example of a height adjustable workstation.

Figure 10 is a front view of an example of a charging station.

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the charging station of Figure 10. Figure 12 is a perspective view of the charging station of Figure 10. Figure 13 is a perspective view of the charging station of Figure 10.

OVERVIEW

This disclosure is directed to a workstation having a worksurface. More particularly, the workstation can indude an electronic display device movingly connect to tiie work surface. The electronic display device can be selectively activated by the user of the workstation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the following description provides some practical illustrations for implementing exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Examples of constructions, materials, dimensions, and manufacturing processes are provided for selected elements, and all other elements employ that which is known to those of ordinary skill in the field of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many of the noted examples have a variety of suitable alternatives.

A workstation can include a worksurface that can provide space to perform various desk functions (e.g., writing, computing, and others). The work surface can be at a fixed height (e.g., fixed height table or desk, top surface of a cabinet, or the like), or the work surface can be supported by a height adjustable leg (e.g., height adjustable table, height adjustable desk converter). Various types of mechanisms can be used to provide height adjustment for the work surface. These mechanisms can include a motorized linear actuator, a gas spring, an extension spring, a constant force lift mechanism, and others known in the industry.

The work surface can provide space to locate one or more items needed for various desk functions. These items can include a notepad, a pen, various electronic equipment such as a notebook computer or a CPU, a display terminal, a scanner or a printer, a USB port, and others.

In some sample configurations, an electronic display can be integrated into the work surface to perform various desk functions such as writing, typing, calculating, drawing, messaging, emailing, polling, and others. In some configurations, the display can be an interactive display that can be connected to a computer located adjacent to the work surface. In other configurations, the display can wirelessly communicate with an electronic device such as a computer located on a network or a mobile device such as a phone or a tablet computer.

In yet other configurations, the display can have no computing or communicating functions. It can have no connection to a computer. It can have an erase function. It can be used for writing instant notes or drawing quick sketches that can be erased to refresh the display using the erase button.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example of a height adjustable workstation 100. The height adjustable workstation 100 can include a work surface 110 and can include a frame 120 coupled to the worksurface. The frame can be a fixed height riser 120 (as illustrated in Figure 1), a telescoping riser 320 (as illustrated in Figure 4), a linkage assembly 430 (as illustrated in Figure 8), or a stationary cabinet (as illustrated in Figure 11).

The riser 120 can be adapted to couple with a support structure 130 (e.g., a wall, a cubicle wall, a free-standing frame, or the like). The riser 120 can define mounting holes adapted to couple the riser 120 with the support structure 130. The work surface 110 can be coupled with the riser 120 such that the work surface 110 is able to translate with respect to the riser 120.

The height adjustable workstation 100 can include a sliding bracket 200. The sliding bracket 200 can be moveably coupled with the riser 120 such that the sliding bracket 200 is adapted to translate with respect to the riser 120.

The height adjustable platform 100 can further include a support bracket 210. The support bracket 210 can be coupled with the sliding bracket 200. The support bracket 210 can be adapted to couple with the work surface 110.

Coupling the work surface 110 to the support bracket 210 can help the work surface 110 translate with respect to the riser 120.

A portion of the sliding bracket 200 can engage with a portion of the riser 120, and thereby movably couple the sliding bracket 200 with the riser 120. As described in this disclosure, the sliding bracket 200 can translate with respect to tiie riser 120, e.g., linear translation, which can change the height of the sliding bracket 200 (and components attached to the sliding bracket, such as the work surface 110 of Figures 1-2).

In an example configuration, the riser 120 can include an electric motor (not shown in Figure 1). The electric motor can be coupled to a linear actuator (not shown in Figure 1). The linear actuator can be connected to the sliding bracket 200. The electric motor can be adapted to drive the linear actuator to move the sliding bracket 200. A controller (not shown in Figure 1) can be connected to the workstation 100. The controller can include an AC/DC converter, a height adjustment controller, and a timer controller. The controller can be adapted to control the power distribution within the workstation 100 and control the height adjustment of the work surface 110.

At least one mechanically actuated connector 220 can be connected to the w'ork surface for operational control of the electric motor. The mechanically actuated connector 220 can be coupled to the controller. The connection between the power source and the controller can be provided via the mechanically actuated connector 220. The mechanically actuated connector 220 can be in a connected state to connect the power source to the controller, and in a disconnected state to disconnect the power source from the controller. The mechanically actuated connector 220 can be manipulated, e.g. , slide in a first direction 230, to alternate between connected state and disconnected state.

When the mechanically actuated connector 220 is manipulated to be in the connected state, a height adjustment user interface 240 can also be exposed, e g., simultaneously. The user of the workstation can interact with the user interface to adjust the height of the work surface 110. When the work surface

110 is at a desired height, the user can intentionally manipulate the mechanically actuated connector 220 (e.g., slide in a second direction opposite the first direction) and cause it to change from a connected state to a disconnected state to cut off the power supply from the controller.

An example of a mechanical actuator is described in commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/838,488, titled“HEIGHT

ADJUSTABLE WORKSTATION WITH ZERO IDLE POWER,” to Dominic A. Del Vecchio et al., filed on April 25, 2019, and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, particularly the portions related to the mechanical actuator.

Figure 2 is a perspective view of another example of a height adjustable workstation with an electronic display. In some example configurations, an electronic display 241 can be integrated into the mechanically actuated connector 221 (replacing the user interface 240 of Figure 1), as illustrated in Figure 2. Manipulating the mechanically actuated connector 221 to place it in the connected state (e.g., sliding it in the first direction 230) can expose the electronic display 241. In some configurations, the electronic display 241 can be an interactive display including the user interface functions among other functions to communicate with the controller to adjust a height of the work surface 110.

In some configurations, when the mechanically actuated connector 221 is retracted together with the display 241 (e.g., slid in a second direction opposite the first direction 230) to place it in the disconnected state, the power source can be disconnected from the controller. In the disconnected state, the display 241 can be stowed under tire worksurface, it cannot be accessible, and it cannot draw any power. When the mechanically actuated connector 221 is in connected state, then, the display 241 can start drawing power and can be activated to perform its functions.

In other configurations of a workstation having a motorized height adjustment mechanism, the electronic display 241 can be independent of the mechanically actuated connector. The electronic display 241 can be connected to the work surface at a location away from die mechanically actuated connector.

In an example configuration, the riser 120 of Figure 2 can include a mechanical height adjustment mechanism. The mechanical height adjustment mechanism can include any one of a gas spring, a linkage system, a coil spring with and a cam, or other methods that are known in the industry.

Figure 3 is a front view of an example riser with a height adjustment mechanism. A height adjustment mechanism 140 can be connected between the fixed riser 120 and the sliding bracket 200 to provide height adjustment for the work surface 110.

As described in this disclosure, the sliding bracket 200 can translate with respect to the riser 120, e.g., linear translation, which can change the height of the sliding bracket 200 (and components attached to the sliding bracket 200, such as the work surface 110).

In an example configuration, the riser 120 can include a counterbalance mechanism 160, and the counterbalance mechanism 160 can be included in the height adjustment mechanism 140. The counterbalance mechanism 160 can include one or more springs 161. The counterbalance mechanism 160 can include a wheel cable 162 (e.g., a tensile member). One end of the wheel cable 162 can be coupled to the sliding bracket 200, and the other end of the wheel cable 162 can be coupled to the one or more springs 161. The counterbalance mechanism 160 can include a wheel/cam assembly 163. The wheel cable 162 can engage with a portion of the wheel/cam assembly 163. Additionally, the wheel cable 162 can engage with a pulley 164.

The height adjustment mechanism 140 can further include a lock assembly 150. The lock assembly can maintain the work surface 110 at a desired height by immobilizing the height adjustment mechanism 140. An actuator (not shown, e.g., a lever, a handle, or the like) can be attached to the worksurface 110 and connected to the lock assembly 150. The user of the workstation can interact with the actuator to selectively release the lock assembly 150 to adjust a height of the work surface.

In some example configurations, an electronic display 241 can be connected to the w'ork surface 110 as illustrated in Figure 2. The riser 120 can include a mechanical height adjustment mechanism as discussed in this disclosure (e.g., the mechanism shown in Figure 3). The electronic display 241 can be independent of the height adjustment mechanism. The electronic display 241 can be connected to a power source, or it can be battery operated. The electronic display 241 can be used for various functions (e.g., writing, drawing, calculating, texting, and others).

The electronic display 241 of Figure 2 can be movingly connected to the w'ork surface 110. For example, in some example configurations, the display 241 can be slidingly connected to an underside of the work surface 110. The display 241 can slide in a first direction 230 to be positioned in a functional location. In the functional location, the display 241 can perform its functions. If the display is not used, it can slide in a second direction opposite the first direction 230 to stow it under tire work surface.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of an example of a mobile workstation that can implement various techniques of this disclosure. The mobile workstation 300 can include a base 310 (e.g., wheeled base), a work surface 332, and a frame 320 (e.g., telescoping riser 320) coupled between the base 310 and the work surface 332.

In the example configuration shown in Figure 4, the riser 320 is a two- member telescoping column, including a first member 322, and a second member 324. The first member 322 can be attached to the wheeled base 310, and tiie second member 324 can be slidingly engaged with the first member 322. The work surface 332 can be connected to the upper end of the telescoping column formed by members 322-324. A height of the work surface 332 can be changed by extending and retracting the second member 324 relative to the first member 322. In the example configuration shown in Figure 4, the telescoping column 320 is shown in an extended configuration.

The riser 320 of Figure 4 can include any type of height adjustment mechanism including, but not limited to, a motorized height adjustment mechanism, a gas spring, a coils spring and a cam combination, and other methods known in the industry. An example of a two-member telescoping configuration is shown and described in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 9,743,754 to Mustafa Ergun et al., the entire contents of which being incorporated herein by reference, specifically the portions related to FIGS. 1-10.

The work surface 332 of the workstation 300 of Figure 4 can have an upper surface 334 and a lower surface 336. The upper surface 334 can provide an unobstructed surface to locate various work items such as papers, pens, a computer, a display, or the like. A sliding bracket 330 can be connected to the lower surface 336 of the work surface 332. An electronic display 335 can be attached to the sliding bracket 330. The sliding bracket 330 and the display 335 can be stowed under the works urface 332 when the display is not used, and the sliding bracket 330 can slide in a first direction 340 to expose the display 335 in a functional location. When it is in the functional location, the display can be used to perform various functions such as writing, drawing, calculating, texting, and other functions.

The display can be moved to a functional location in various ways including, but not limited to, sliding, rotating around a horizontal axis, rotating around a vertical axis. In some sample configurations, the display can be moved to a functional location by the user of the workstation when needed to perform it functions, and the display can be stowed away by the user of the workstation when it is not needed. In other configurations, a timer controller and an idle movement mechanism can be connected to the display. When the display is located in the functional location, and if it is idle for a period of time, e.g., pre- set time, the timer controller can activate the idle movement mechanism to move the display to a stowed position under the work surface. The idle movement mechanism can include a DC motor or other methods known in the industry.

The display can be connected to a power source, or in other

configurations, it can be battery operated. In some configurations, the power to the display can be turned on automatically when it is moved to a functional location, and the power to the display can be turned off automatically when it is stowed under the work surface. Alternatively, in other configurations, the power to the display can be turned on and off selectively by the user of the workstation when the display is located in the functional location. Figure 5 is a perspective view of an example of a height adjustable table that can implement various techniques of this disclosure. The height adjustable 350 can include a base 360, (e.g., wheeled base) a tabletop 382, and a frame 370 (e.g., a telescoping riser 370) coupled between the base 360 and the tabletop 382.

The riser 370 can include a first member 372 and a second member 374 where the second member 374 can be slidingly engaged with the first member 372. The riser 370 can be connected to the base 360 at its lower end and it can be connected to the tabletop 382 in its upper end. The riser can have a height adjustment mechanism (not shown in Figure 5). The height adjustment mechanism can have any one of an electric motor, a gas spring, an extension spring, or other devices know in the industry. The height adjustment mechanism can be connected between the first member 372 and the second member 374, and it can allow the second member 374 slide relative to the first member 372 to change a height of the tabletop 382. Figure 5 illustrates the riser 370 at an expanded or raised configuration, and Figure 6 illustrates the riser 370 at a contracted or lowered configuration according to an example configuration of the disclosure.

The tabletop 382 and the base 360 of the height adjustable table of Figure 5 can be elongated in a one direction. Such tables can be useful for example in a hospital patient room to provide an extended table over a bed.

The tabletop 382 can have an upper surface 384 and a lower surface 386. The upper surface 384 can be an unobstructed surface that can be used to hold papers, dishes, glasses, and other functional items. A sliding bracket 390 can be attached to the lower surface 386 of the tabletop 382. An electronic display 392 can be attached to the sliding bracket 390 as illustrated in an example configuration in Figure 5. However, in other configurations, the sliding bracket 390 and the electronic display 392 can be attached to an)' side of the tabletop

382.

Figure 6 is a perspective view' of the height adjustable table 350 of Figure 5 in a contracted configuration. A bracket 391 can be rotafingly coupled to the lower surface 386 of the tabletop 382 according to an example configuration of the current disclosure. An electronic display 393 can be attached to the bracket 391. A first rotation axis 397 can be perpendicular to the tabletop 382. The bracket 391 and the attached display 393 can be adapted to be rotated around the first rotation axis 397. The rotation axis 397 can be located proximate to a comer of tiie bracket 391. In a non-functional orientation, the electronic display 393 can be stowed under the tabletop 382. The bracket 391 and the attached display 393 can rotate in a first direction 396 to bring the display 393 to a first functional orientation where it can perform its functions. When the display 393 is not needed to perform its functions, the bracket 391 and the attached display 393 can rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction 396 to stow the display 393 under the tabletop 382 in its non-functional orientation.

Figurer 7 illustrates another example configuration of the height adjustable table of Figure 6. The bracket 391 and the attached display 393 can rotate around a second rotation axis 398 to bring the display to a second functional orientation. The second rotation axis 398 can be perpendicular to the first rotation axis 396. Once the user of the height adjustable table 350 rotates the display 393 in the first direction 396 around the first rotation axis 397 to bring the display 393 to the first functional orientation, the user can then rotate the display 393 in a third direction 399 around the second rotation axis 398 to bring the display 393 to the second functional orientation. In the second functional orientation, the display 393 can be inclined relative to the tabletop 382. When the display 393 is rotated in the third direction 399 around the second rotation axis 398, the display 393 can be inclined downwards from the tabletop 382, and it can be located below the tabletop 382. When the display 393 is rotated in the fourth direction opposite the third direction 399 around the second rotation axis 398, the display 393 can be inclined upwards from the tabletop 382, and it can be located above the tabletop 382

Figure 8 is a perspective view of an example of a height adjustable workstation. The height adjustable workstation 400 can include a work surface 410. The unobstructed worksurface 410 can be adapted to hold various work items such as a computer, a display screen connected to the computer, papers, pens, or the like. The height adjustable workstation can include a foot assembly 420. The foot assembly 420 can be adapted to rest upon a foundation (e.g., a floor, a desktop, or the like). The height adjustable workstation 400 can implement various techniques of this disclosure.

The height adjustable workstation 400 can include a frame 430 coupled to the worksurface (e.g., at least one linkage assembly 430). The linkage assembly 430 can include a first linkage arm 432, a second linkage arm 434, and a transverse linkage arm 436. At least one linkage assembly 430 can operably connect the work surface 410 to the foot assembly 420. The linkage assembly 430 can be configured such that displacement of tire linkage assembly 430 can adjust a height of the work surface 410 relative to the foot assembly 420.

The work surface 410 can define a top surface 412 and an underside 414. At least one gliding bracket 440 can be slidingly coupled to the underside 414 of the work surface 410. The first linkage arm 432 and tire second linkage arm 434 are rotatingly coupled to the foot assembly 420 on one end and rotatingly coupled to the gliding bracket 440 on their other end. One end of the transverse linkage arm 436 can be rotatingly coupled to the underside 414 of the work surface 410, and the other end of the transverse linkage 436 can be rotatingly coupled to the first linkage arm 432. The gliding bracket 440 can be configured to slide relative to the work surface 410 as the first and second linkage arms are displaced.

A keyboard tray 450 can be connected to the underside 414 of the woiksurface 410. The keyboard tray 450 can be adapted to hold a keyboard that can be connected to a computer located on the worksurface 410. In some example configurations, keyboard tray 450 can be slidingly engaged with the work surface 410, and it can be height adjustable relative to the work surface

410.

The keyboard tray 450 of the workstation 400 of Figure 8 can have an upper surface and a lower surface. A key-board can be located on the upper surface of the keyboard tray 450. A sliding bracket 460 can be connected to the lower surface of the keyboard tray 450. An electronic display 465 can be attached to the sliding bracket 460. The sliding bracket 460 and the display 465 can be stowed under the keyboard tray 450 when the display is not used, and the sliding bracket 460 can slide in a first direction 470 to expose the display 465 to put it in a functional location. When it is in the functional location, the display 465 can be used to perform various functions such as writing, drawing, calculating, texting, and other functions.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of another example configuration of the workstation 400 that can implement various techniques of this disclosure. The work surface 410 of the workstation 400 can have an upper surface 412 and a lower surface 414. The upper surface of the workstation 400 can provide an unobstructed surface to locate various functional items. A sliding bracket 461 can be connected to the lower surface 414 of the work surface 410. An electronic display 466 can be attached to the sliding bracket 461. The sliding bracket 461 and the display 466 can be stowed under the work surface 410 when the display 466 is not used. The sliding bracket 461 can slide in a first direction 471 to expose the display 466 to place it in a functional location. When it is in the functional location, the display can be used to perform various functions such as writing, drawing, calculating, texting, and other functions.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of an example of a charging station. The charging station can be configured to charge a plurality of portable electronic devices, e.g., tablet computing devices, laptop computers, or mobile phones.

The charging station 520, e.g., charging cart, can include a charging cabinet 522 that can serve as an overall structural member for the charging station 520. The charging station 520 can include a first door 524A and a second door 524B and is shown with its doors 524A, 524B in an open position 526. In some examples, the doors 524A, 524B can lock to secure the devices. The charging station 520 can include a first side 528, a second side 530 opposite the first side 528, a connecting member 532, and a plurality of shelves 534A, 534B, and 534C positioned within the charging station 520 and configured to hold the electronic devices.

The connecting member 532 can be one or more of a top member 538, a back member 540, or a base member 542. The connecting member 532 can form a structural bridge that can couple the first side 528 to the second side 530 and the connecting member 532 can form a structural member of the charging cabinet 522. Altogether, the first side 528, the second side 530, and the connecting member 532 can form a frame 545 of the charging cabinet 522.

In some example configurations, the charging station 520 can include a controller 510. The controller 510 can be located inside the charging cabinet 522. The controller 510 can be connected to a power source (e.g., an AC power).

The controller 510 can have plurality of power outlets 512. The plurality of power outlets 512 can be any combination of a power socket, a USB port, or the like. The plurality of portable electronic devices located inside the charging cabinet 522 can be connected to the controller 510. The controller 510 can be adapted to distribute the power to the connected plurality of portable electronic devices.

In other example configurations, a computer (not shown) can be connected to the controller 510. The controller 510 can be adapted to update the content of the connected portable electronic devices by synching the plurality of portable electronic devices with the connected computer. The controller 510 monitors the charging and synching status of the portable electronic devices.

An example of a charging cart its associated load management system is described in commonly assigned is shown and described in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 9,397,515 to William Tisdier, the entire contents of which being incorporated herein by reference.

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the charging station of Figure 10 according to an example configuration of the disclosure. The charging station 520 of Figure 10 can implement various techniques of this disclosure. The charging station 520 can be a cart having one or more wheels 548 that can be attached to the base member 542. One or more handles 546 can be attached to the top member 538 to transport the charging station 520. In other example configurations, the charging station 520 can be a charging cabinet 522 that can be placed on a desktop or attached to a structure (e.g., a wall).

An upper surface of the top member 538 of the charging cabinet 522 can provide a work surface for the user of the charging station 520. The upper surface of the top member 538 can be used to locate some w ork material such as papers, a computer, and others. In some example configurations, an electronic display 550 can be connected to the top member 538 of the charging cabinet 522. The electronic display 550 can be an integral part of the top member 538 as illustrated in Figure 11 according to an example configuration of the disclosure. The electronic display 550 can be connected to the controller 510. The electronic display 550 can be configured to display the charging and synching status of the plurality of electronic devices connected to the controller 510. The electronic display 550 can be adapted to issue alerts (e.g., charging and synching completed, indicate which portable electronic devices can be removed from the charging cabinet 522, or others).

In some configurations, the electronic display 550 can be a smart display with some computing and communication functions. The electronic display 550 can wirelessly communicate with external portable devices (e.g., phones, tablets, notebook computers, or the like) carried by the user of the charging station 520. The electronic display can be adapted to send alerts to external portable devices.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the charging station 520 that can implement various techniques of this disclosure. An electronic display 555 can be connected to one of the side surfaces of the charging cabinet 522 (e.g., the first side 528). The electronic display 555 can be connected to the controller 510 located inside the charging cabinet 522. The electronic display 555 can be configured to perform various functions as discussed earlier in this disclosure.

Figure 13 is a perspective view of the charging station 520 that can implement various techniques of this disclosure. A bracket 560 can be movingly (e.g., slidingly) coupled to an underside of the top member 538 of the charging cabinet 522. An electronic display 565 can be attached to the bracket 560. In a non-functional orientation, the bracket 560 and the display 565 can be stowed under the top member 538. The bracket 560 and the display 565 can be moved in a first direction 570 to place the display 565 in a functional orientation to perform display functions. The bracket 560 and the display 565 can be moved in a second direction opposite the first direction 570 to place the display 565 in a non-functional orientation to stow it under the top member 538. The electronic display 565 can be connected to the controller 510 located inside the charging cabinet 522. The electronic display 565 can be configured to perform various functions as discussed earlier in this disclosure when the display is in the functional orientation.

Additional notes and aspects

Aspect 1 may include or use subject matter (such as an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a means for performing acts, or a device readable medium including instructions that, when performed by the device, may cause the device to perform acts), such as may include or use a workstation comprising: a worksurface; a frame supporting the worksurface; an electronic display assembly comprising: a movable bracket coupled to the worksurface, wherein the movable bracket is configured to couple to an electronic display, wherein the movable bracket is configured to move in a first direction to place tiie electronic display in a first orientation, and the movable bracket is configured to move in a second direction to place the electronic display' in a second orientation, and wherein the electronic display' is configured to be functional when the electronic display is in the first orientation, and the electronic display is configured to be non-functional when the electronic display' is in the second orientation.

Aspect 2 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspect 1, to optionally include or use a base, wherein the frame is coupled to the base and the worksurface.

Aspect 3 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspects 1 through 2, to optionally include or use wherein the frame comprises at least one leg assembly.

Aspect 4 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspects 1 through 3, to optionally include or use wherein the at least one leg assembly comprises: a first member; and a second member slidingly engaged with the first member, wherein the worksurface is connected to the second member.

Aspect 5 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspects 1 through 4, to optionally include or use wherein the first member is supported by the base.

Aspect 6 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspects 1 through 4, to optionally include or use wherein the first member is supported by a structure.

Aspect 7 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspects 5 through 6, to optionally include or use wherein the worksurface is height adjustable.

Aspect 8 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspect 7, to optionally include or use an energy' storage member coupled between the first member and the second member, wherein the energy storage member is configured to lift the second member to change a height of the work surface.

Aspect 9 may' include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspects 1 through 3, to optionally include or use at least one leg assembly comprising: a parallel linkage assembly haring a proximal end and a distal end; a transverse linkage having a first end and a second end; and a gliding bracket slidingly engaged with the work surface, wherein the proximal end of the parallel linkage is rotatingly coupled with the base, and wherein the distal end of the parallel linkage is rotatingly coupled with the movable bracket, and wherein the first end of the transverse linkage is rotatingly coupled to worksurface, and the second end of the transverse linkage is rotatingly coupled with tiie linkage assembly.

Aspect 10 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspect 9, to optionally include or use an energy storage member coupled to the worksurface and the movable bracket, wherein the energy storage member is configured to move the gliding bracket to change a height of the work surface.

Aspect 11 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspects 1 through 2, to optionally include or use wherein the frame further comprises: a first side; a second side opposite the first side; a front side; and a rear side opposite the front side, wherein the worksurface and the base are connected by the first side, the second side, the front side, and the rear side to form an enclosure.

Aspect 12 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspect 11, to optionally include or use wherein the front side includes at least one door to provide access to an inside of the enclosure.

Aspect 13 may include or use, or may optionally be combined with the subject matter of Aspect 12, to optionally include or use one or more shelves, wherein the shelves are adapted to hold a plurality of portable electronic devices.

Aspect 14 may include or use subject matter (such as an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a means for performing acts, or a device readable medium including instructions that, when performed by the device, may cause tiie device to perform acts), such as may include or use a height adjustable workstation comprising: a worksurface; at least one riser coupled to the worksurface; an energy storage member coupled between first and second members of the at least one riser, wherein the energy storage member is configured to lift the second member to change a height of the work surface; and an electronic display assembly including: a movable bracket coupled to the w'orksurface, wherein the movable bracket is configured to couple to an electronic display, wherein the movable bracket is configured to move in a first direction to place the electronic display in a first orientation, and the movable bracket is configured to move in a second direction to place the electronic display in a second orientation, and wherein the electronic display is configured to operate when the electronic display is in the first orientation.

Aspect 15 may include or use subject matter (such as an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a means for performing acts, or a device readable medium including instructions that, when performed by the device, may cause the device to perform acts), such as may include or use a height adjustable workstation comprising: a worksurface; a base; at least one leg assembly coupled to the worksurface, the at least one leg assembly including: a parallel linkage assembly having a proximal end and a distal end; a transverse linkage having a first end and a second end; and a gliding bracket slidingly engaged with the worksurface, wherein the proximal end of the parallel linkage is rotatingly coupled with the base, and wherein the distal end of the parallel linkage is rotatingly coupled with a movable bracket, and wherein the first end of tire transverse linkage is rotatingly coupled to worksurface, and the second end of the transverse linkage is rotatingly coupled with the linkage assembly, an energy storage member coupled to the worksurface and the movable bracket, wherein the energy storage member is configured to move the gliding bracket to change a height of the worksurface, and an electronic display assembly including: a movable bracket coupled to the worksurface, wherein the movable bracket is configured to couple to an electronic display, wherein the movable bracket is configured to move in a first direction to place the electronic display in a first orientation, and the movable bracket is configured to move in a second direction to place the electronic display in a second orientation; and wherein the electronic display is adapted to operate when the electronic display is in the first orientation.

Aspect 15 may include or use subject matter (such as an apparatus, a system, a device, a method, a means for performing acts, or a device readable medium including instructions that, when performed by the device, may cause the device to perform acts), such as may include or use a charging station comprising: a top member; a base spaced apart from the top member; a first side; a second side opposite the first side; a front side; a rear side opposite the front side; one or more shelves, wherein the shelves are adapted to hold plurality of portable electronic devices; and an electronic display assembly comprising; a movable bracket connected to an underside of the top member, wherein the movable bracket is configured to couple to an electronic display, wherein the top member and the base are connected by the first side, the second side, the front side, and the rear side to form an enclosure, wherein the front side includes at least one door to provide access to an inside of the enclosure, wherein the charging station is adapted to hold plurality of portable electronic devices, wherein the movable bracket is configured to move in a first direction to place the electronic display in a first orientation, and the movable bracket is configured to move in a second direction to place the electronic display in a second orientation, and wherein the electronic display is configured to operate when the electronic display is in the first orientation.

Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own or can be combined in any permutation or combination with any one or more of the other examples.

The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the present subject matter can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as“examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described.

However, the present inventor also contemplates examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventor also contemplates examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

In tiie event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

In the following claims, the terms“including” and“comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms“first,”“second,” and“third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of tiie present subject matter should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

THE CLAIMED INVENTION IS:

1. A workstation comprising:

a works urface;

a frame supporting the worksurface;

an electronic display assembly comprising:

a movable bracket coupled to the worksurface, wherein the movable bracket is configured to couple to an electronic display,

wherein the movable bracket is configured to move in a first direction to place the electronic display in a first orientation, and the movable bracket is configured to move in a second direction to place the electronic display in a second orientation, and

wherein the electronic display is configured to be functional when the

electronic display is in the first orientation, and the electronic display is configured to be non-functional when the electronic display is in the second orientation.

2. The workstation of claim 1, further comprising a base, wherein the frame is coupled to the base and the worksurface.

3. The workstation of claim 2, wherein the frame comprises at least one leg assembly.

4. The workstation of claim 3, wherein the at least one leg assembly comprises: a first member; and

a second member slidingly engaged with the first member, wherein the

worksurface is connected to the second member.

5. The workstation of claim 4, wherein the first member is supported by the base.

6. The workstation of claim 4, wherein the first member is supported by a structure.

7. The workstation of claim 5, wherein the worksurface is height adjustable.

8. The workstation of claim 7, further comprising:

an energy storage member coupled between the first member and the second member, wherein the energy- storage member is configured to lift the second member to change a height of the work surface.

9. The workstation of claim 3, wherein the at least one leg assembly

comprising:

a parallel linkage assembly having a proximal end and a distal end; a transverse linkage having a first end and a second end; and

a gliding bracket slidingly engaged with the work surface,

wherein the proximal end of the parallel linkage is rotatingly coupled with the base, and wherein the distal end of the parallel linkage is rotatingly coupled with the movable bracket, and

wherein the first end of the transverse linkage is rotatingly coupled to worksurface, and the second end of the transverse linkage is rotatingly coupled with the linkage assembly.

10. The workstation of claim 9, further comprising:

an energy storage member coupled to the worksurface and the movable bracket, wherein the energy' storage member is configured to move tire gliding bracket to change a height of the work surface.

11. The workstation of claim 2, wherein the frame further comprising:

a first side;

a second side opposite the first side;

a front side; and

a rear side opposite the front side,

wherein the worksurface and the base are connected by the first side, the second side, the front side, and the rear side to form an enclosure.

12. The workstation of claim 11, wherein the front side includes at least one door to provide access to an inside of the enclosure.

13. The workstation of claim 12, further comprising one or more shelves, wherein the shelves are adapted to hold a plurality of portable electronic devices.

14. A height adjustable workstation comprising:

a worksurface;

at least one riser coupled to the worksurface;

an energy- storage member coupled between first and second members of the at least one riser, wherein the energy storage member is configured to lift the second member to change a height of the work surface; and an electronic display assembly including:

wherein the electronic display is configured to operate when the electronic display is in the first orientation.

15. A height adjustable workstation comprising:

a w'orksurface;

abase;

at least one leg assembly coupled to the worksurface, the at least one leg assembly including:

a gliding bracket slidingly engaged with the w'orksurface,

wherein the proximal end of the parallel linkage is rotatingly coupled with the base, and wherein the distal end of the parallel linkage is rotatingly coupled with a movable bracket, and wherein the first end of the transverse linkage is rotatingly coupled to worksurface, and the second end of the transverse linkage is rotatingly coupled with the linkage assembly,

an energy- storage member coupled to the w orksurface and the movable bracket, wherein the energy- storage member is configured to move the gliding bracket to change a height of the worksurface, and

an electronic display- assembly including:

wherein the movable bracket is configured to move in a first direction to place the electronic display in a first orientation, and the movable bracket is configured to move in a second direction to place the electronic display in a second orientation; and

wherein the electronic display- is adapted to operate when the electronic display is in the first orientation.

16. A charging station comprising:

a top member;

a base spaced apart from the top member;

a first side;

a second side opposite the first side;

a front side;

a rear side opposite the front side;

one or more shelves, wherein the shelves are adapted to hold plurality- of portable electronic devices; and

an electronic display assembly comprising;

a movable bracket connected to an underside of the top member, wherein the movable bracket is configured to couple to an electronic display, wherein the top member and the base are connected by the first side, the second side, the front side, and the rear side to form an enclosure, wherein the front side includes at least one door to provide access to an

inside of the enclosure,

wherein the charging station is adapted to hold plurality of portable

electronic devices, wherein the movable bracket is configured to move in a first direction to place the electronic display in a first orientation, and the movable bracket is configured to move in a second direction to place the electronic display in a second orientation, and