CA2344525C - Keyboard tilt mechanism - Google Patents
Keyboard tilt mechanism Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2344525C CA2344525C CA002344525A CA2344525A CA2344525C CA 2344525 C CA2344525 C CA 2344525C CA 002344525 A CA002344525 A CA 002344525A CA 2344525 A CA2344525 A CA 2344525A CA 2344525 C CA2344525 C CA 2344525C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- platform
- slide link
- keyboard support
- pivot axis
- slide
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B21/00—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards
- A47B21/03—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards with substantially horizontally extensible or adjustable parts other than drawers, e.g. leaves
- A47B21/0314—Platforms for supporting office equipment
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S248/00—Supports
- Y10S248/917—Video display screen support
- Y10S248/918—Ancillary device support associated with a video display screen
Abstract
There is disclosed an adjustable tilt mechanism for a keyboard support platform. The keyboard support platform is of the type that includes a linkage for connecting the platform to a work surface. The linkage further includes connecting arms which pivotally connect the keyboard support platform to the work surface. The adjustable tilt mechanism of the present invention includes a tilt adjustment member that is movable transversely relative to the pivot axis of the platform. Engaging the tilt adjustment member is an angled shaft which is fixed to the platform between the sides of the platform. The tilt adjustment member is also pivotal about a second fixed shaft that is parallel to the pivot axis of the platform. A releasable latching member is mounted on the connecting arms for engaging and releasing the tilt adjustment member. In operation, upon the release of the latching member, slidable movement of the tilt adjustment member alters the pitch of the keyboard support platform, thereby permitting selective adjustment of the work angle of the keyboard.
Description
KEYBOARD TILT MECHANISM
SPECIFICATION
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates in general to a keyboard support platform assembly and more particularly to an adjustable support platform that permits the adjustment of the pitch or tilt of the support platform to accommodate the setting of the work angle of a keyboard.
The keyboard support platform construction is of the type generally shown in McConnell, U.S. Patent No. 5,037,054 and U.S. Patent No. 5,145,136, or Smeenge et al., U.S. Patent No. 4,616,798. As conventional, a keyboard support platform is attached by parallel and/or non-parallel pivotal linkage arms to a slidable plate. The slidable plate, in turn, is mounted in a slide on the underside of a desk or other work surface.
The slide permits the keyboard support platform and linkage to move between a retracted or storage position to an extended or use position. The pivotal linkage arms further permit the keyboard support platform to be adjusted to a useful operational work height.
The conventional keyboard support platform assemblies, however, are limited in the degree of keyboard tilt. That is, known keyboard platform assemblies limit the operational work angle of the keyboard and, therefore, do not ergonomically comply with the requirements of all users. Because conventional keyboard support platform assemblies are so limited, keyboard users have suffered from various debilitating medical conditions. As an example, it has been shown that without the proper work angle setting of the keyboard, users who perform considerable data entry on the keyboard have suffered from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome which is a medical disorder of the hand that creates numbness and pain in the fingers. Consequently, there is a need for an improved keyboard support platform assembly which provides not only adjustable work height of the keyboard but also improved adjustment of the tilt or work angle of the keyboard to prevent such debilitating medical conditions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention recognizes and provides a solution to the aforementioned problems associated with the known keyboard support platform assemblies.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved adjustable support mechanism for a keyboard support platform. It is a further object to provide an adjustable tilt mechanism which permits the user to set the pitch of the support platform to accommodate setting of the work angle of a keyboard according to the desires of the user.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a tilt mechanism which also includes an easily adjustable and accessible mechanism for locking or holding the keyboard platform at the desired work angle.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a keyboard support platform of the type including a linkage for connecting the platform to a work surface, the linkage including at least one connecting arm pivotally connecting the platform to the work surface, the improvement comprising an adjustable tilt mechanism, the tilt mechanism includes a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to a pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform; and a releasable latching member mounted on the at least one connecting arm for engaging and releasing the slide link, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a keyboard support platform assembly mountable to a work surface comprising a slide bracket, the slide bracket slidably connected to a work surface, at least one linkage arm pivotally connected to the slide bracket, a platform pivotally mounted to the at least one linkage arm, the platform defining a pivot axis, and an adjustable tilt mechanism connected to the at least one linkage arm and the platform, the tilt mechanism including a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a keyboard support platform assembly mountable to a work surface comprising a slide bracket, the slide bracket slidably connected to a work surface, at least one linkage arm pivotally connected to the slide bracket; a platform pivotally mounted to the at least one linkage arm, the platform defining a pivot axis; an adjustable tilt mechanism connected to the at least one linkage arm and the platform, the tilt mechanism including a slide link 2a movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about the fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform; and a releasable latching member mounted on the at least one linkage arm for engaging and releasing the slide link.
In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a keyboard support platform of the type including a linkage for connecting the platform to a work surface, the linkage including connecting arms pivotally connecting the platform to the work surface, the arms pivoted about parallel axes, the platform being pivotally movable about it,,, connection to the connecting arms to independently adjust the pitch of the platform with respect thereto, the improveinent comprising an adjustable tilt mechanism mounted to the connecting arms and the platErm, the adjustable tilt mechanism further comprising a platforn-. interactive member slidable along an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby slidable movement of the platform interactive member alters the pitch of the platforrr..; and a releasable latching member mounted on the connecting arms for engaging and releasing the platform interactive member, wherein the platform interactive member compris,,-s a linear guide and a linear slide link operatively received in the linear guide, and the linear guide defines depending tabs for operatively receiving the slide link.
The full range of objects, aspects and advantages of the invention are only appreciated by a full reading of this specificar,ion and a full understanding of the invention. Therefore, to complet,,- this specification, a detailed description of the invention and the preferred embodirnent follows, after a brief'description of the drawing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
The preferred embodiment of the invention will be described in relation to the accompanying drawing. In the drawing, the following figures have the following general nature:
Figure 1 is a side elevation of the platform pitch adjustment assembly for the keyboard support platform of the invention;
Figure 2 is a top plan vievv of the assembly of Figure 1;
Figures 3A to 3C are a group of figures depicting a component part of the assembly, namely, the release arm or tilt activating shroud;
Figures 4A and 4B are a spring utilized to maintain the tilt activating shroud of Figure 3 in position;
Figures 5A to 5C are a group of views of the outer linkage arm of the assembly;
Figures 6A to 6C are aÃ;roup of views of the platform or front mounting bracket of the assembly;
Figures 7A to 7C are a group of views of the linear slide link of the assembly;
Figures 8A to 8C are a group of views of the linear guide; and 3a Figures 9A and 9B are a view of the shaft which is utilized to support the linear slide link and linear guide.
In the accompanying drawing, like reference numerals are used throughout the various figures for identical structures.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to the figures, there is shown a keyboard support and tilt mechanism of the present invention. The keyboard support mechanism includes a slide bracket assembly 10 which is slidably mounted in a bracket (not shown) that is mounted to the underside of a work surface, desk or platform. Typically, the bracket assembly 10 supports the remainder of the support mechanism and permits sliding nlovement in the direction depicted by the arrows shown in the figures, particularly Figures 1 and 2. As conventional, the bracket assembly 10 is slidable between a retracted position and an extended position.
Additionally, the bracket assembly 10 permits rotational or pivotal movement of the platform about axis 12 as depicted in Figures 1 and 2. A spiral spring 14 is provided for engagement with an outer arm or support arm 16 to facilitate support of the weight placed on a platform 18.
That is, to assist in supporti ig the weight placed on the platform 18, one end of the spring 14 is attached to the bracket assembly and the opposite end of the spring 14 biases against the outer arm or support .irm 16. The spiral spring 14 fits around a pin 15 defining the axis 22. The pin 15 is capped at both ends.
Pivotally mounted to the bracket assembly 10 are the linkage arms which comprise the outer arm 16 and the comlecting arm 20. The linkage arms connect the bracket 10 with the keyboard support platform 18. The outer arm 16 and connecting arm 20 are connected at pivot axis 24 by adjustable fasteners. Pivotally connectecl at pivot axis 26 by a shaft is the platform 18. The platform 18 includes an arcuate slot 42 which cooperates with a shaft defining the axis 28. Thus, the platform 18 may be pivoted about the axis 26 as limited by the arcuate slot 42. As most preferred, pivot axes or shafts 22, 24, 26 and 28 are parallel to one another. Movement of---- -- -the platform 18 is therefore effected by movement of the arms 16 and 20 about the axes or shafts 22, 24, 26 and 28.
The subject matter of the present invention relates specifically to the mechanism for adjusting the pitch or tilt of the platform 18. In the embodiment of the invention depicted in Figure 1, the tilt range, or pitch range 19 is approxiniately 30 or 15 above a normal liorizontal position and 15 below that position. 'The tilt adjustment inechanism coniprises the component parts set forth in Figures 3-9 in combination with the aforesaid assembly as described.
Specifically, the tilt mechanism inclucies a tilt activating shroud or manually actuable lever plate 30 which is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis or shaft 32 biased counterclockwise by a spiral spring 34. Releasably engaged with the plate 30 is a tilt adjust-Yient nlember of the present invention which permits selective adjustment of the pitch of the keyboard platform. As most preferred, the plate 30 includes a series of teeth 36 which are adapted to engage with the tilt adjustment member and more particularly with the linear guide member 38 of the tilt adjustment member. More specifically, the teeth 36 of the plate 30 engage with the teeth 40 of the guide member 38. The spring 34 fits around the pivot axis or shaft 32. One end of the spring 34 biases against the underside of the tilt activating shroud 30 and the other end of the spring against the underside of the connecting arm 20.
The linear guide member 38 defines an opening 39 which permits the guide meniber 38 to be slidably mounted on the shaft which ciefines the axis 26. The linear guide member 38 thus is slidable side to side or laterally on the shaft 26 as described below. The teeth 36 engage with the teeth 40 to lock the guide member 38 into a fixed position in its side to side movement. The linear guide member 38 further defines depending tabs or tangs 48 and 50, more fully described below.
Also mounted on the shaft 28 for side to side nlovement is a linear slide link 44 of the tilt adjustment member. The linear slide link 44 includes an opening 46 which fits on the shaft defining the axis 28 and thus may nlove side to side. The linear slide link 44 further engages with the depending tabs or tangs 48 and 50 of the Iinear guide member 38. The tabs 48 and 50 retain the slide link 44 and thus provide that the guide member 38 will control the movement of the slide link 44 and hold it in position. That is, side to side movement of the guide member 38 moves the slide link 44 from side to side.
As most preferred, the slide link 44 ftirther includes a second passage 52 througli which a shaft 54, as shown in Figure 9, is inserted. The shaft 54 is tilted or angled and extends from one side of the platforni 18 to the other side. Depending upon the position of the linear slide link 44 relative to the sliaft 54, the pitcli or tilt of the platfonn 18 will vary.
In operation, to adjust the pitch or tilt of the platfonn 18, an operator will depress the plate or shroud 30 against the force of the spring 34. This releases the teetli 36 from engagenient 5 with the teeth 40 of the guide 38. 'The operator may then manually move the platfonn 18 upwardly or downwardly as desired. Upon such movement, the linear slide link 44 will slide being driven by the interaction of the shaft 54 with the passage 52. When the platform 18 is set at a desired pitch or tilt, the plate or shroud 30 is released. This permits the teeth 36 of the shroud 30 to be reengaged with the teeth 40 of the guide 38 thus locking the platform 18 in position. It is to be noted that the linear slide link 44 slides on the shaft 28 and simultoneously causes the platform 18 to alter its pitch or tilt due to fhe'interaction of the passage 52 with the tilted or angled shaft 54. The linear guide member 38 follows the travel of the slide link 44 and is finally locked into position as described.
The preferred embodiments of the invention are now described as to enable a person of ordinary skill in the art to make aild use the same. Variations of the preferred embodiment are possible without being outside the scope of the present invention. Therefore, to particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter regarded as the invention, the following claims conclude the specification.
SPECIFICATION
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates in general to a keyboard support platform assembly and more particularly to an adjustable support platform that permits the adjustment of the pitch or tilt of the support platform to accommodate the setting of the work angle of a keyboard.
The keyboard support platform construction is of the type generally shown in McConnell, U.S. Patent No. 5,037,054 and U.S. Patent No. 5,145,136, or Smeenge et al., U.S. Patent No. 4,616,798. As conventional, a keyboard support platform is attached by parallel and/or non-parallel pivotal linkage arms to a slidable plate. The slidable plate, in turn, is mounted in a slide on the underside of a desk or other work surface.
The slide permits the keyboard support platform and linkage to move between a retracted or storage position to an extended or use position. The pivotal linkage arms further permit the keyboard support platform to be adjusted to a useful operational work height.
The conventional keyboard support platform assemblies, however, are limited in the degree of keyboard tilt. That is, known keyboard platform assemblies limit the operational work angle of the keyboard and, therefore, do not ergonomically comply with the requirements of all users. Because conventional keyboard support platform assemblies are so limited, keyboard users have suffered from various debilitating medical conditions. As an example, it has been shown that without the proper work angle setting of the keyboard, users who perform considerable data entry on the keyboard have suffered from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome which is a medical disorder of the hand that creates numbness and pain in the fingers. Consequently, there is a need for an improved keyboard support platform assembly which provides not only adjustable work height of the keyboard but also improved adjustment of the tilt or work angle of the keyboard to prevent such debilitating medical conditions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention recognizes and provides a solution to the aforementioned problems associated with the known keyboard support platform assemblies.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved adjustable support mechanism for a keyboard support platform. It is a further object to provide an adjustable tilt mechanism which permits the user to set the pitch of the support platform to accommodate setting of the work angle of a keyboard according to the desires of the user.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a tilt mechanism which also includes an easily adjustable and accessible mechanism for locking or holding the keyboard platform at the desired work angle.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a keyboard support platform of the type including a linkage for connecting the platform to a work surface, the linkage including at least one connecting arm pivotally connecting the platform to the work surface, the improvement comprising an adjustable tilt mechanism, the tilt mechanism includes a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to a pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform; and a releasable latching member mounted on the at least one connecting arm for engaging and releasing the slide link, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a keyboard support platform assembly mountable to a work surface comprising a slide bracket, the slide bracket slidably connected to a work surface, at least one linkage arm pivotally connected to the slide bracket, a platform pivotally mounted to the at least one linkage arm, the platform defining a pivot axis, and an adjustable tilt mechanism connected to the at least one linkage arm and the platform, the tilt mechanism including a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a keyboard support platform assembly mountable to a work surface comprising a slide bracket, the slide bracket slidably connected to a work surface, at least one linkage arm pivotally connected to the slide bracket; a platform pivotally mounted to the at least one linkage arm, the platform defining a pivot axis; an adjustable tilt mechanism connected to the at least one linkage arm and the platform, the tilt mechanism including a slide link 2a movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about the fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform; and a releasable latching member mounted on the at least one linkage arm for engaging and releasing the slide link.
In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a keyboard support platform of the type including a linkage for connecting the platform to a work surface, the linkage including connecting arms pivotally connecting the platform to the work surface, the arms pivoted about parallel axes, the platform being pivotally movable about it,,, connection to the connecting arms to independently adjust the pitch of the platform with respect thereto, the improveinent comprising an adjustable tilt mechanism mounted to the connecting arms and the platErm, the adjustable tilt mechanism further comprising a platforn-. interactive member slidable along an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby slidable movement of the platform interactive member alters the pitch of the platforrr..; and a releasable latching member mounted on the connecting arms for engaging and releasing the platform interactive member, wherein the platform interactive member compris,,-s a linear guide and a linear slide link operatively received in the linear guide, and the linear guide defines depending tabs for operatively receiving the slide link.
The full range of objects, aspects and advantages of the invention are only appreciated by a full reading of this specificar,ion and a full understanding of the invention. Therefore, to complet,,- this specification, a detailed description of the invention and the preferred embodirnent follows, after a brief'description of the drawing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
The preferred embodiment of the invention will be described in relation to the accompanying drawing. In the drawing, the following figures have the following general nature:
Figure 1 is a side elevation of the platform pitch adjustment assembly for the keyboard support platform of the invention;
Figure 2 is a top plan vievv of the assembly of Figure 1;
Figures 3A to 3C are a group of figures depicting a component part of the assembly, namely, the release arm or tilt activating shroud;
Figures 4A and 4B are a spring utilized to maintain the tilt activating shroud of Figure 3 in position;
Figures 5A to 5C are a group of views of the outer linkage arm of the assembly;
Figures 6A to 6C are aÃ;roup of views of the platform or front mounting bracket of the assembly;
Figures 7A to 7C are a group of views of the linear slide link of the assembly;
Figures 8A to 8C are a group of views of the linear guide; and 3a Figures 9A and 9B are a view of the shaft which is utilized to support the linear slide link and linear guide.
In the accompanying drawing, like reference numerals are used throughout the various figures for identical structures.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to the figures, there is shown a keyboard support and tilt mechanism of the present invention. The keyboard support mechanism includes a slide bracket assembly 10 which is slidably mounted in a bracket (not shown) that is mounted to the underside of a work surface, desk or platform. Typically, the bracket assembly 10 supports the remainder of the support mechanism and permits sliding nlovement in the direction depicted by the arrows shown in the figures, particularly Figures 1 and 2. As conventional, the bracket assembly 10 is slidable between a retracted position and an extended position.
Additionally, the bracket assembly 10 permits rotational or pivotal movement of the platform about axis 12 as depicted in Figures 1 and 2. A spiral spring 14 is provided for engagement with an outer arm or support arm 16 to facilitate support of the weight placed on a platform 18.
That is, to assist in supporti ig the weight placed on the platform 18, one end of the spring 14 is attached to the bracket assembly and the opposite end of the spring 14 biases against the outer arm or support .irm 16. The spiral spring 14 fits around a pin 15 defining the axis 22. The pin 15 is capped at both ends.
Pivotally mounted to the bracket assembly 10 are the linkage arms which comprise the outer arm 16 and the comlecting arm 20. The linkage arms connect the bracket 10 with the keyboard support platform 18. The outer arm 16 and connecting arm 20 are connected at pivot axis 24 by adjustable fasteners. Pivotally connectecl at pivot axis 26 by a shaft is the platform 18. The platform 18 includes an arcuate slot 42 which cooperates with a shaft defining the axis 28. Thus, the platform 18 may be pivoted about the axis 26 as limited by the arcuate slot 42. As most preferred, pivot axes or shafts 22, 24, 26 and 28 are parallel to one another. Movement of---- -- -the platform 18 is therefore effected by movement of the arms 16 and 20 about the axes or shafts 22, 24, 26 and 28.
The subject matter of the present invention relates specifically to the mechanism for adjusting the pitch or tilt of the platform 18. In the embodiment of the invention depicted in Figure 1, the tilt range, or pitch range 19 is approxiniately 30 or 15 above a normal liorizontal position and 15 below that position. 'The tilt adjustment inechanism coniprises the component parts set forth in Figures 3-9 in combination with the aforesaid assembly as described.
Specifically, the tilt mechanism inclucies a tilt activating shroud or manually actuable lever plate 30 which is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis or shaft 32 biased counterclockwise by a spiral spring 34. Releasably engaged with the plate 30 is a tilt adjust-Yient nlember of the present invention which permits selective adjustment of the pitch of the keyboard platform. As most preferred, the plate 30 includes a series of teeth 36 which are adapted to engage with the tilt adjustment member and more particularly with the linear guide member 38 of the tilt adjustment member. More specifically, the teeth 36 of the plate 30 engage with the teeth 40 of the guide member 38. The spring 34 fits around the pivot axis or shaft 32. One end of the spring 34 biases against the underside of the tilt activating shroud 30 and the other end of the spring against the underside of the connecting arm 20.
The linear guide member 38 defines an opening 39 which permits the guide meniber 38 to be slidably mounted on the shaft which ciefines the axis 26. The linear guide member 38 thus is slidable side to side or laterally on the shaft 26 as described below. The teeth 36 engage with the teeth 40 to lock the guide member 38 into a fixed position in its side to side movement. The linear guide member 38 further defines depending tabs or tangs 48 and 50, more fully described below.
Also mounted on the shaft 28 for side to side nlovement is a linear slide link 44 of the tilt adjustment member. The linear slide link 44 includes an opening 46 which fits on the shaft defining the axis 28 and thus may nlove side to side. The linear slide link 44 further engages with the depending tabs or tangs 48 and 50 of the Iinear guide member 38. The tabs 48 and 50 retain the slide link 44 and thus provide that the guide member 38 will control the movement of the slide link 44 and hold it in position. That is, side to side movement of the guide member 38 moves the slide link 44 from side to side.
As most preferred, the slide link 44 ftirther includes a second passage 52 througli which a shaft 54, as shown in Figure 9, is inserted. The shaft 54 is tilted or angled and extends from one side of the platforni 18 to the other side. Depending upon the position of the linear slide link 44 relative to the sliaft 54, the pitcli or tilt of the platfonn 18 will vary.
In operation, to adjust the pitch or tilt of the platfonn 18, an operator will depress the plate or shroud 30 against the force of the spring 34. This releases the teetli 36 from engagenient 5 with the teeth 40 of the guide 38. 'The operator may then manually move the platfonn 18 upwardly or downwardly as desired. Upon such movement, the linear slide link 44 will slide being driven by the interaction of the shaft 54 with the passage 52. When the platform 18 is set at a desired pitch or tilt, the plate or shroud 30 is released. This permits the teeth 36 of the shroud 30 to be reengaged with the teeth 40 of the guide 38 thus locking the platform 18 in position. It is to be noted that the linear slide link 44 slides on the shaft 28 and simultoneously causes the platform 18 to alter its pitch or tilt due to fhe'interaction of the passage 52 with the tilted or angled shaft 54. The linear guide member 38 follows the travel of the slide link 44 and is finally locked into position as described.
The preferred embodiments of the invention are now described as to enable a person of ordinary skill in the art to make aild use the same. Variations of the preferred embodiment are possible without being outside the scope of the present invention. Therefore, to particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter regarded as the invention, the following claims conclude the specification.
Claims (16)
1. In a keyboard support platform of the type including a linkage for connecting the platform to a work surface, the linkage including at least one connecting arm pivotally connecting the platform to the work surface, the improvement comprising:
an adjustable tilt mechanism, the tilt mechanism includes a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to a pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform; and a releasable latching member mounted on the at least one connecting arm for engaging and releasing the slide link, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform.
an adjustable tilt mechanism, the tilt mechanism includes a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to a pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform; and a releasable latching member mounted on the at least one connecting arm for engaging and releasing the slide link, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform.
2. The keyboard support platform of claim 1 wherein the tilt mechanism further comprises a linear guide, the linear guide movable transversely side to side relative to the pivot axs of the platform.
3. The keyboard support platform of claim 2 wherein the linear guide is adapted to receive the slide link and to engage the releasable latching member.
4. The keyboard support platform of claim 1 wherein the releasable latching member is pivotally mounted on at the least one connecting arm.
5. The keyboard support platform of claim 1 wherein the releasable latching member is spring biased on the at least one connecting arm.
6. The keyboard support platform of claim 3 wherein the linear guide defines depending tabs for receiving the slide link.
7. A keyboard support platform assembly mountable to a work surface comprising:
a slide bracket, the slide bracket slidably connected to a work surface, at least one linkage arm pivotally connected to the slide bracket, a platform pivotally mounted to the at least one linkage arm, the platform defining a pivot axis, and an adjustable tilt mechanism connected to the at least one linkage arm and the platform, the tilt mechanism including a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform.
a slide bracket, the slide bracket slidably connected to a work surface, at least one linkage arm pivotally connected to the slide bracket, a platform pivotally mounted to the at least one linkage arm, the platform defining a pivot axis, and an adjustable tilt mechanism connected to the at least one linkage arm and the platform, the tilt mechanism including a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform.
8. A keyboard support platform assembly mountable to a work surface comprising:
a slide bracket, the slide bracket slidably connected to a work surface;
at least one linkage arm pivotally connected to the slide bracket;
a platform pivotally mounted to the at least one linkage arm, the platform defining a pivot axis;
an adjustable tilt mechanism connected to the at least one linkage arm and the platform, the tilt mechanism including a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform;
and a releasable latching member mounted on the at least one linkage arm for engaging and releasing the slide link.
a slide bracket, the slide bracket slidably connected to a work surface;
at least one linkage arm pivotally connected to the slide bracket;
a platform pivotally mounted to the at least one linkage arm, the platform defining a pivot axis;
an adjustable tilt mechanism connected to the at least one linkage arm and the platform, the tilt mechanism including a slide link movable along a fixed shaft on an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link, the slide link also pivotal about said fixed shaft parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby the slidable movement of the slide link alters the pitch of the platform;
and a releasable latching member mounted on the at least one linkage arm for engaging and releasing the slide link.
9. The keyboard support platform assembly of claim 8 wherein the tilt mechanism further comprises a linear guide, the linear guide movable transversely side to side relative to the pivot axis of the platform.
10. The keyboard support platform assembly of claim 9 wherein the linear guide is adapted to receive the slide link and to engage the releasable latching member.
11. The keyboard support platform assembly of claim 8 wherein the releasable latching member is spring biased on the at least one linkage arm.
12. The keyboard support platform assembly of claim 10 wherein the linear guide defines depending tabs for receiving the slide link.
13. The keyboard support platform assembly of any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the platform defines an arcuate slot on opposing sides of the platform for receiving the said fixed shaft.
14. In a keyboard support platform of the type including a linkage for connecting the platform to a work surface, the linkage including connecting arms pivotally connecting the platform to the work surface, the arms pivoted about parallel axes, the platform being pivotally movable about its connection to the connecting arms to independently adjust the pitch of the platform with respect thereto, the improvement comprising:
an adjustable tilt mechanism mounted to the connecting arms and the platform, the adjustable tilt mechanism further comprising a platform interactive member slidable along an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby slidable movement of the platform interactive member alters the pitch of the platform; and a releasable latching member mounted on the connecting arms for engaging and releasing the platform interactive member, wherein the platform interactive member comprises a linear guide and a linear slide link operatively received in the linear guide, and the linear guide defines depending tabs for operatively receiving the slide link.
an adjustable tilt mechanism mounted to the connecting arms and the platform, the adjustable tilt mechanism further comprising a platform interactive member slidable along an axis parallel to the pivot axis of the platform, whereby slidable movement of the platform interactive member alters the pitch of the platform; and a releasable latching member mounted on the connecting arms for engaging and releasing the platform interactive member, wherein the platform interactive member comprises a linear guide and a linear slide link operatively received in the linear guide, and the linear guide defines depending tabs for operatively receiving the slide link.
15. The keyboard support member of claim 14 further comprising an angled shaft fixed to the platform and engaging the slide link.
16. The keyboard support member of claim 15 wherein the slide link is pivotal about a second fixed shaft on said axis parallel to said pivot axis.
Priority Applications (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US09/407,410 US6270047B1 (en) | 1998-11-06 | 1999-09-29 | Keyboard tilt mechanism |
| PCT/CA1999/000998 WO2000027248A1 (en) | 1998-11-06 | 1999-10-27 | Keyboard tilt mechanism |
| TW088119342A TW482977B (en) | 1998-11-06 | 1999-11-05 | Keyboard support platform and keyboard support platform assembly |
| CA002344525A CA2344525C (en) | 1998-11-06 | 2001-05-03 | Keyboard tilt mechanism |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US10736598P | 1998-11-06 | 1998-11-06 | |
| US09/407,410 US6270047B1 (en) | 1998-11-06 | 1999-09-29 | Keyboard tilt mechanism |
| CA002344525A CA2344525C (en) | 1998-11-06 | 2001-05-03 | Keyboard tilt mechanism |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2344525A1 CA2344525A1 (en) | 2002-11-03 |
| CA2344525C true CA2344525C (en) | 2007-10-23 |
Family
ID=27171513
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002344525A Expired - Lifetime CA2344525C (en) | 1998-11-06 | 2001-05-03 | Keyboard tilt mechanism |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US6270047B1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2344525C (en) |
| TW (1) | TW482977B (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2000027248A1 (en) |
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-
1999
- 1999-09-29 US US09/407,410 patent/US6270047B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1999-10-27 WO PCT/CA1999/000998 patent/WO2000027248A1/en active Application Filing
- 1999-11-05 TW TW088119342A patent/TW482977B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
-
2001
- 2001-05-03 CA CA002344525A patent/CA2344525C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO2000027248A1 (en) | 2000-05-18 |
| US6270047B1 (en) | 2001-08-07 |
| TW482977B (en) | 2002-04-11 |
| CA2344525A1 (en) | 2002-11-03 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20210503 |