CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 62/183,951, titled "HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DESKTOP WORK SURFACE," by Mustafa Ergun, and filed on June 24, 2015 (Attorney Docket No. 5983.383PRV), which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This document pertains generally, but not by way of limitation, to desktop assembly for providing a height adjustable work surface.

BACKGROUND

Conventional desks include a planar desktop providing a work surface and for receiving a computer monitor, computer peripherals or other desktop items. Typically, the desktop is mounted at a horizontal position to provide a flat surface for receiving and retaining desktop items. Similarly, the desktop is positioned at a height that corresponds to a position at which a seated person can comfortably use the desk. Recently, desk users have sought to use desks while standing to prevent back strain and other injuries that result from extended seated use of the desk and in particular computer use, which often results in the user being hunched over the desktop. In particular, recent information has indicated that alternating between standing and sitting while using a desk for extending periods of time has beneficial health benefits.

An approach for providing standing use of a desk for computer use is a computer mount including a vertical riser mountable to the work surface of a desk. Fixed or height adjustable mounts for a computer monitor and/or keyboard can be secured to the vertical riser at appropriate heights for standing or alternating between sitting and standing use of the computer. A drawback of this approach is that the monitor is typically fixed to the work surface to avoid tipping. Risers can be fixed to the work surface with an edge clamp, grommet mount or other clamping apparatuses. A drawback of clamping apparatus is lhat the existing desktop may have to be modified by drilling holes or removing edge sections of the desktop. The substantial and permanent modification of the desk requires substantial investment and can render the desktop unsuitable for its original intended use or other uses.

OVERVIEW

The present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved can include providing a stable, height adjustable work surface that is sufficiently sized for computer and other uses. In addition, the present inventors have recognized that a related problem to be solved can include converting fixed height desks to a sit-to-stand desk by incorporating a height adjustable work surface.

In an example, the present subject matter can provide a solution to this problem, such as by providing a height adjustable work surface that can be set or located on a fixed height desk to convert the fixed height desk. In an example, the height adjustable work surface can have a foot assembly and a linkage assembly that adjustably connects the work surface to the foot assembly allowing vertical adjustment of Ihe work surface relative to the foot assembly. In at least one example, the foot assembly can be placed on or releasably mounted to a work surface of a fixed height desk to provide a stable, height adjustable work surface on the fixed height desk.

To further illustrate the HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE DESKTOP WORK SURFACE disclosed herein, a non-limiting list of examples is provided here:

In Example 1, a height adjustable desktop system, can comprise: a work surface, the work surface defining a cut out region having a first side, a second side, and a transverse side extending therebetween; a tray having an upper surface, a bottom surface, a first tray side and a second tray side; a first attachment bracket having a first attachment surface and a first tray attachment surface, the first attachment surface configured to attach to an underside of the work surface, the first attachment bracket configured to contact the underside of the work surface at positions that are rearwardly offset from a bottom edge of the transverse side of the work surface, the first tray attachment surface configured to attach to a portion of the tray; a second attachment bracket having a second attachment surface and a second tray attachment surface, Ihe second attachment surface configured to attach to an underside of the work surface, the second attachment bracket configured to contact the underside of the work surface at positions that are rearwardly offset from a bottom edge of the transverse side of the work surface, the second tray attachment surface configured to attach to a portion of the tray; and a linkage assembly rotatably coupled to the work surface, wherein the linkage assembly is configured to move the work surface between a lowered position and an elevated position generally perpendicular to the work surface.

In Example 2, the system of Example 1 can optionally be configured to further comprise a foot assembly, wherein the linkage assembly is rotably coupled to the foot assembly.

In Example 3, the system of Example 2 can optionally be configured such that the foot assembly defines a U-shape.

hi Example 4, the system of any one or any combination of Examples 1-3 can optionally be configured such that the cut-out region defines a U-shape.

In Example 5, the system of any one or any combination of Examples 1-4 can optionally be configured such that the upper surface of the tray is located at a height below a height of the work surface.

In Example 6, the system of any one or any combination of Examples 1-5 can optionally be configured such that the first and second tray attachment surfaces are coupled to the bottom surface of the tray.

In Example 7, the system of any one or any combination of Examples 1-5 can optionally be configured such that the first tray attachment surface is coupled to the first tray side and the second tray attachment surface is coupled to the second tray side.

In Example 8, the system of any one or any combination of Examples 1-7 can optionally be configured to further comprise a counterbalance mechanism connected to Ihe height adjustable device and configured to counteract a force exerted on the work surface.

In Example 9, the system of any one or any combination of Examples 1-8 can optionally be configured such that the first and second attachment brackets have a cantilevered configuration. In Example 10, the system of any one or any combination of Examples 1- 9 can optionally be configured to further comprise a glide support and a support bracket positioned on the underside of the work surface; wherein the linkage assembly further comprises: a glider slidable on the glide support; a first linkage rotatably connected to the glider and rotatably connected to a foot bracket; a second linkage rotatable with the first linkage, the second linkage rotatably connected to the glider and rotatably connected to the foot bracket; and a transverse linkage rotatably connected to a support bracket coupled to the work surface and rotatably connected to the second linkage; wherein the glider is slidable on the glide support between a first position proximate to the support bracket and a second position distal to the support bracket; wherein the work surface is moved from a lowered position to an elevated position along a vertical axis transverse to the horizontal axis by moving the glider from the second position to the first position and extending the first, second and transverse linkages.

In Example 11, the system of Example 10 can optionally be configured to further comprise an extension spring coupled to the glider at a first end and the support bracket at a second end.

In Example 12, the system of any one or any combination of Examples 10-11 can optionally be configured such that the linkage assembly includes a torsion spring that is tensioned between the second linkage member and the transverse linkage as the work surface is lowered to bias the work surface toward an elevated position.

In Example 13, a keyboard tray support can comprise: a first cantilevered attachment bracket having a first attachment surface configured to attach to an underside of a work surface, a first tray attachment surface configured to attach to a portion of the keyboard tray, and a first connecting member extending vertically between the first attachment surface and the first tray attachment surface; and a second cantilevered attachment bracket having a second attachment surface configured to attach to an underside of the work surface, a second tray attachment surface configured to attach to a portion of the keyboard tray, and a second connecting member extending vertically between the second attachment surface and the second tray attachment surface. In Example 14, the keyboard tray support of Example 13 can optionally be configured such that the first cantilevered attachment bracket is configured to contact the underside of the work surface at positions that are rearwardly offset from a bottom edge of a transverse side of the work surface; and wherein the second cantilevered attachment bracket is configured to contact the underside of the work surface at positions that are rearwardly offset from a bottom edge of the transverse side of the work surface.

In Example 15, the keyboard tray support of any one or any combination of Examples 13-14 can optionally be configured such that the first and second tray attachment surfaces are coupled to the bottom surface of the keyboard tray.

In Example 16, the keyboard tray support of any one or any combination of Examples 13-14 can optionally be configured such that the first tray attachment surface is coupled to a first keyboard tray side and the second tray attachment surface is coupled to a second keyboard tray side.

In Example 17, the keyboard tray support of any one or any combination of Examples 13-16 can optionally be configured such that the first connecting member includes a front vertical edge extending from the first tray attachment surface and an angled edge extending from the front vertical edge to the first attachment surface; and wherein the second connecting member includes a front vertical edge extending from the second tray attachment surface and an angled edge extending from the front vertical edge to the second attachment surface.

In Example 18, the keyboard tray support of any one or any combination of Examples 14-17 can optionally be configured such that the first attachment surface has a trapezoidal shape with a first forward corner being farther forward of a second forward corner and the first forward comer coupled to the underside of the worksurface a rearward offset from the bottom edge; and wherein the second attachment surface has a trapezoidal shape with a first forward comer being farther forward of a second forward corner and the first forward corner coupled to the underside of the worksurface the rearward offset from the bottom edge.

In Example 19, the keyboard tray support of any one or any combination of Examples 14-17 can optionally be configured such that the keyboard tray is suspended under a cut-out region of the worksurface. In Example 20, the keyboard tray support of Example 19 can optionally be configured such that the cut-out region defines a U-shape.

In Example 21 the system or keyboard tray support of any one or any combination of Examples 1-20 can optionally be configured such that all elements, operations, or other options recited are available to use or select from

This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the present subject matter. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. 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 schematic side view of a height adjustable desktop system having a work surface in an elevated position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 2 is a schematic side view of the height adjustable desktop system depicted in Figure 1 having the work surface positioned in an intermediate lowered position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 3 is a schematic side view of the height adjustable desktop system depicted in Figure 1 having the work surface including a shelf positioned in a lowered position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 4 is a front view of the height adjustable desktop system depicted in Figure 1 in accordance to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 5 is a schematic front view of the height adjustable desktop system having a work surface in an elevated position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 6 is a schematic front view of the height adjustable desktop system having a work surface in an elevated position, according to an example of the present disclosure. Figure 7 is a schematic side view of a height adjustable desktop system having a work surface including a shelf positioned in a lowered position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 8 is a schematic side view of a height adjustable desktop system having a work surface including a shelf positioned in a lowered position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 9 is a schematic side view of a height adjustable desktop system having a clamping member, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 10 is a schematic side view of a height adjustable desktop system having a clamping member, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 12 is a schematic side view of a height adjustable desktop system having a work surface in an elevated position, according to an example of the present disclosure, wherein an extension spring operably linking a glider to a transverse linkage.

Figure 13 is a schematic side view of a height adjustable desktop system having a work surface in an elevated position, according to an example of the present disclosure, wherein an extension spring operably linking a glider to a spring holding bracket affixed to the work surface.

Figure 14 is a schematic side view of the height adjustable desktop system depicted in Figure 7 having a work surface positioned in an intermediate lowered position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 15 is a schematic side view of a height adjustable desktop system having a work surface in an elevated position, according to an example of the present disclosure, wherein a torsion spring is positioned bias the work surface to the elevated position.

Figure 16 is a schematic side view of the height adjustable desktop system depicted in Figure 15 having a work surface positioned in an

intermediate lowered position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 17 is a schematic side view of a height adjustable desktop system having a work surface in an elevated position and having a wall bracket for mounting the system to a wall, according to an example of the present disclosure. Figure 18 is a perspective view of a height adjustable desktop system having a work surface in an elevated position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 19 is a side view of the height adjustable desktop system having a work surface depicted in Figure 18.

Figure 20 is a front view of the height adjustable desktop system having a work surface depicted in Figure 18.

Figure 21 is a side view of the height adjustable desktop system depicted in Figure 18 having the work surface positioned in an intermediate lowered position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 22 is a side view of the height adjustable desktop system depicted in Figure 18 having the work surface positioned in an intermediate lowered position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 23 is partial front view of a height adjustable desktop system illustrating a lever for a glide rod, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 24 is a partial perspective view of a height adjustable desktop system, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 25 is a perspective view of a glider rod, support frame and glider assembly, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 26 is a perspective view of a glider, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 27 is a perspective view of a glider rod, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 28 is a top view of a lever of a glider rod, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 29 is a partial cross-sectional view of a glider rod, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 30 is a perspective view of a height adjustable desktop system having a work surface in an elevated position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 31 is a side view of the height adjustable desktop system having a work surface depicted in Figure 30 of the present disclosure. Figure 32 is a side view of the height adjustable desktop system depicted in Figure 30 having the work surface positioned in an intermediate lowered position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 33 is a front view of the height adjustable desktop system having a work surface depicted in Figure 24 of the present disclosure.

Figure 34 is a partial perspective view of a lock lever assembly according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 35 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a lock lever assembly according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 36 is a perspective view of a height adjustable desktop system having a lower lock assembly, with a work surface positioned in an elevated position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 37 is a perspective view of a height adjustable desktop system having a lower lock assembly, with a work surface positioned in a lowered and locked position, according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 38 is a perspective view of a lever having a locking arm according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 39 is a partial perspective view of a height adjustable desktop system locked into a lowered position according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 40 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a height adjustable desktop system locked into a lowered position according to an example of the present disclosure.

Figure 41 is a front perspective view of an example height adjustable desktop system with a keyboard tray attached to through a rear edge of the keyboard tray, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

Figure 42 is bottom perspective view of the example system shown in Figure 41, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

Figure 43 is a front perspective view of another example height adjustable desktop system with a keyboard tray attached through a side edge of the keyboard tray, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

Figure 44 is bottom perspective view of the example system shown in Figure 43, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure. Figure 45 is a perspective view of another example height adjustable desktop system with a keyboard tray, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

Figure 46 is a top view of the example system shown in Figure 45, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

Figure 47 is an enlarged top view of a portion of the example system shown in Figure 45, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

Figure 48 is a side view of a portion of the example system of Figure 45 showing the keyboard tray attached to the work surface using an example attachment bracket, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

Figure 49 is a perspective view of the example attachment bracket of Figure 48, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.

Figure 50 A is a side view of the example attachment bracket of Figure

49, in accordance with at least one example of Ihe present disclosure.

Figure 50B is a front view of the example attachment bracket of Figure 49, in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As depicted in FIGS. 1-3, a height adjustable desktop system 100, according to an example of the present disclosure, can include a work surface 102, a linkage assembly 104 and afoot assembly 106. The work surface 102 provides a planar surface for writing or receiving desktop items such as computer peripherals. The foot assembly 106 is configured to be placed on a desktop 99 of a desk, secured to the frame of the desk or secured to a wall or other structure. The linkage assembly 104 operably connects the work surface 102 to the foot assembly 106. The linkage assembly 104 is configured to position the work surface 102 for vertical height adjustment of the work surface 102 and permitting use of the work surface 102 while seated, standing or in other positions. As illustrated in FIG. 2, in an example, the linkage assembly 104 can elevate as depicted in FIG. 1 or lower the work surface 102 relative to the foot assembly 106 as depicted in FIG. 3. As depicted in FIGS. 1-6, the work surface 102 can define a primary top surface 108 and an underside 110. The top surface 108 can be planar to provide a flat surface for writing or receiving desktop items. In an example, the primary top surface 108 can include a high friction surface to prevent desktop items from sliding on the primary top surface 108 while the work surface 102 is being elevated or lowered by the linkage assembly 104. As depicted in FIG. 4, in at least one example, the work surface 102 can include at least one glide support 112 and a support bracket 114 arranged on the underside 110 of the work surface 102 along an axis. In this configuration, a first adjustment assembly 120a can be located proximate the center of the work surface 102. The foot assembly 106 can be large enough to maintain stability of the work surface 102 during use of the height adjustable desktop system 100.

As depicted in FIGS. 7-8, in an example, the work surface 102 can include a shelf 116 defining a secondary top surface 118 for use as a keyboard tray or other purposes providing a bi-level work surface. In at least one example, the secondary top surface 118 can be located at a lower height than the primary top surface 108. In this configuration, the lower secondary top surface 118 can permit use of certain peripherals at a lower height relative to the primary top surface 108 to position the peripherals at a more ergonomic operating position for the user's hands while the relatively higher primary top surface 108 positions other peripherals, such as computer monitors, at a more ergonomic viewing position for the user's head and eyes. For example, the peripherals for use on the secondary top surface 118 can include, but not limited to computer monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers, boon microphones and other peripherals commonly used with computers. As depicted in FIG. 7, in an example, the secondary top surface 118 can rest against the foot assembly 106 on the desktop 99 in the lowered position 144. As depicted in FIG. 8, in an example, the secondary top surface 118 can extend forward of the front 140 of the desktop 99 and can include a lowered position 144 that can be lower than the surface of the foot assembly 106 or the surface of the desktop 99. In this configuration, the secondary top surface 118 can be positioned at a height about or below the primary top surface 108. As depicted in FIGS. 18-22 and 30, in at least one example, the work surface 102 can include at least one attachment bracket 119 for releasably securing the shelf 116 to the work surface 102. As depicted in FIGS. 5-6, in at least one example, the work surface 102 can include a first glide support 1 12a and a first support bracket 114a arranged on the underside 110 of the work surface 102 along a first axis. In this configuration, the work surface 102 also can include a second glide support 112b and a second support bracket 114b arranged on the underside 110 of the work surface 102 along a second axis parallel to the first axis. In this configuration, the first support bracket 114a and the second support bracket 114b cooperate to support the work surface 102. In at least one example, the work surface 102 further can include a back bracket 115 joining the first and second glide supports 112a, 112b.

As depicted in FIGS. 5-6, the linkage assembly 104 can include a first adjustment assembly 120a and a second adjustment assembly 120b. Whelher the linkage assembly 104 includes only one adjustment assembly or additional adjustment assemblies, the following description may use the "first adjustment assembly" nomenclature and element numbering in various examples. The work surface 102 can include a first glide support 112a and a first support bracket 114a arranged on the underside 110 of the work surface 102 along a first axis. Each adjustment assembly 120a, 120b can include a first parallel linkage 122, a second parallel linkage 124 and a transverse linkage 126. Each adjustment assembly 120a, 120b also can include a glider 128 configured to slide on one of the glide supports 112a, 112b. The first adjustment assembly 120a can be located proximate to a first edge 145a of the work surface 102. The second adjustment assembly 120b can be located proximate to a second edge 145b of the work surface 102 which can be opposite the first edge 145a. The first and second adjustment assemblies 120a, 120b can be operationally connected to the work surface 102 on the upper end, such as at the underside 110, and operationally connected to the foot assembly 106 at the lower end. The foot assembly 106 can include an individual foot portion 132 for each adjustment assembly 120a, 120b as illustrated in FIG. 5, or in some configurations, the foot assembly 106 can be formed as a base 147 that spans from the first adjustment assembly 120a to the second adjustment assembly 120b as illustrated in FIG. 6.

A first lower bar 130a can be formed as part of the foot assembly 106. The first lower bar 130a can extend upwardly from the foot assembly 106 and can be formed separately or integrally with the foot assembly 106. The first lower bar 130a can be an attachment structure, a bracket, a foot bracket, or similar structure. Similarly, the second adjustment assembly 120b can include a second lower bar 130b such that the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 of the second adjustment assembly 120b can be individually mounted to the foot portion 132.

As depicted in FIG. 1, the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 can be rotatably mounted at one end to the first lower bar 130a at a first hinge 148 and a second hinge 149 such that the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 rotate in parallel on the first lower bar 130a. The first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 can be rotatably mounted at an opposite end to the glider 128 at a third hinge 150 and a fourth hinge 151 such that the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 rotate in parallel on the glider 128. Similarly, the transverse linkage 126 can be rotatably mounted at one end to the second parallel linkage 124 by a sixth hinge 153 and rotatably mounted to the corresponding support brackets 114a, 114b through a fifth hinge 152. In an example, the transverse linkage 126 can be rotatably mounted to the second parallel linkage 124 at about the midpoint of the second parallel linkage 124. In an example, the transverse linkage 126 is about half the length of the second parallel linkage 124.

As depicted in FIGS. 30 and 33, in an example, the first parallel linkages 122 of the adjustment assemblies 120a, 120b can be connected by a first cross- piece 123. Similarly, the second parallel linkages 124 of the adjustment assemblies 120a, 120b can be connected by a second cross-piece 125.

As depicted in FIGS. 4-6, in an example, the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124, the transverse linkage 126 and combinations thereof can be offset along an axis transverse to plane of rotation of the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 and the transverse linkage 126. In this configuration, the offset prevents contact or pinching of the linkages 122, 124, and 126 during rotation of the linkages 122, 124, and 126. As illustrated in FIG. 4, in at least one example, the first parallel linkage 122 can rotate in a first plane and the second parallel linkage 124 can rotate in a second plane. The second plane can be parallel to and offset from the first plane. The offsetting of the first and second planes can prevent torqueing of the work surface 108 relative to the foot assembly 147 during use of the work surface 108. FIGS. 1-3 illustrate side views of a height adjustable desktop system 100 and a linkage assembly 104. FIG. 1 illustrates an elevated position 142, FIG. 2 illustrates an intermediate position 143 and FIG. 3 illustrates a lowered position 144. As depicted in FIGS. 1-3, the linkage assembly 104 can be configured with a 4-bar linkage 105 to keep the platform in horizontal orientation during the height adjustment.

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate the operation of the height adjustable desktop system 100. In operation, the gliders 128 of the first and second adjustment assemblies 120a, 120b can each slide along the corresponding first and second glide support 112a, 112b between a first position 138 and a second position 139, which correspondingly moves the work surface 102 between an elevated position 142 and a lowered position 144. FIG. 2 illustrates the work surface 102 in an intermediate position 143 as the first glide support 112a is between a first position 138 and a second position 139. In the first position 138, each glider 128 can be positioned proximate to the corresponding support bracket 114a, 114b along the corresponding first and second glide support 112a, 112b such that Ihe work surface 102 can be raised to an elevated position 142 (see FIG. 1). In the elevated position 142, the first, second and transverse linkages 122, 124, 126, can be extended when the glider 128 is positioned in the first position 138. In the second position 139, each glider 128 can be located distal to the corresponding support bracket 114a along the corresponding first and second glide support 112a, 112b such that the work surface 102 can be located in a lowered position 144 (see FIG. 3). As the work surface 102 moves from elevated position 142 to lowered position 144 by means of the linkage assembly 104, parallel linkages 122 and 124 can maintain the horizontal orientation of the work surface 102, and the transverse linkage 126 can maintain the vertical orientation of the work surface 102. The first parallel linkage 122, the second parallel linkage 124 and the transverse linkage 126 can be collapsed toward the foot assembly 106 when the glider 128 is positioned in the second position 139. When the glider 128 reaches the second position, the work surface 102 can be at the lowered position 144.

The height adjustable desktop system 100 can also be configured with a work surface 102 that is angled, such as a drafting table. The linkage assembly 104 can be configured to maintain the angle of the work surface 102 relative to the foot assembly 106 during a height adjustment.

The height adjustable desktop system 100 can be used as free standing on the top of a desktop 99 as illustrated in FIGS. 1-8. However, in some configurations, the base 147 or foot assembly 106 of the work surface 102 can be secured to the desktop 99 as illustrated in FIGS. 9-11. The securement can be accomplished by a clamping member such as a clamp, a grommet, a vise, a cramp, a dog, a clip, or an alternative type of fastener. In some configurations, one or more clamping members 154 can be located in front 140 of the base 147 as illustrated in FIG. 9. In other configurations, one or more clamping members 154 can be located at the rear 141 of the base 147 as illustrated in FIG. 10. Clamping members 154 can be located on any edge of the base 147 and in any number desired. Still in other configurations, a grommet mount 155 can be used to attach the base 147 to the desktop 99 as illustrated in FIG. 11. The grommet mount 155 can allow the height adjustable desktop system 100 to be rotated to the right or left. The grommet mount 155 can be located at Ihe center of the base 147 or at other locations of the base 147. The grommet mount 155 can form a rotation center of the base 147. Multiple grommet mounts 155 can also be used. Various clamping devices are disclosed as part of the patent application

13/191170, published as 2012/0187056 which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Clamping the base 147 of the height adjustable desktop system 100 to the desktop 99 can improve the stability of the work surface 102 during uses such as typing.

A counterbalance mechanism can be used for lift assist during the height adjustment to reduce the force exerted by the user. As depicted in FIGS. 12-14, in an example, each adjustment assembly 120a, 120b can include a

counterbalance mechanism such as an extension spring 157. The extension spring 157 can operably connect the glider 128 to the corresponding transverse linkage 126 as depicted in FIG. 12. As the work surface 102 is lowered and the glider 128 moves away from the corresponding support bracket 114a, 114b, the extension spring 157 can be stretched (see FIG. 14) to bias the work surface 102 toward the elevated position 142 (see FIGS. 12-13). In certain examples, the work surface 102 can further include a spring holding bracket 158 located on the underside 110 of the work surface 102. FIGS. 13-14 illustrate the extension spring 157 can be operably connected to the spring holding bracket 158 rather than the transverse linkage 126 as depicted in FIG. 12.

As depicted in FIGS. 15-16, in an example, each adjustment assembly 120a, 120b can include a counterbalance mechanism such as a torsion spring 159. The torsion spring 159 operably engages the transverse linkage 126 and the underside 110 of the work surface 102. As the work surface 102 is lowered and the transverse linkage 126 collapses (see FIG. 16), the torsion spring 159 is tensioned biasing the work surface 102 toward the elevated position 142 (see FIG. 15).

As depicted in FIGS. 5-6 and 18, the foot assembly 106 can include a first foot bracket 130a, a second foot bracket 130b and a foot portion 132. The foot brackets 130a, 130b can be fixed to Ihe foot portion 132. In this

configuration, the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 of the first adjustment assembly 120a can be rotatably mounted to the foot bracket 130a through a hinge connection. Similarly, the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 of the second adjustment assembly 120b can be rotatably mounted to the foot bracket 130b through a hinge connection. In an example, the foot portion 132 comprises a planar element for interfacing a top surface of a desktop as depicted in FIGS. 1-16. In an example, the foot portion 132 comprises a wall bracket 134 for receiving a fastener for securing the foot assembly 106 to a wall or other vertical surfaces such as depicted in FIG. 17. In at least one example, the wall bracket 134 can be configured to attach to shelf or other mounting bracket attached to the wall. In an example, the foot portion 132 comprises a U- shape element 136 having a pair of arms 137 for stabilizing the foot assembly 106 as depicted in FIGS. 18-22 and 30-33. In at least one example, the foot assembly 106 can include a plurality of first foot brackets 130a such that the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 of the first adjustment assembly 120a can be individually mounted to the foot portion 132. Similarly, the second foot assembly 106 can include a plurality of second foot brackets 130b such that the first and second parallel linkages 122, 124 of Ihe second adjustment assembly 120b can be individually mounted to the foot portion 106.

As depicted in FIGS. 6-8, in an example, each adjustment assembly 120a, 120b can include a counterbalance mechanism such as an extension spring 157. The extension spring 157 operably connects Ihe glider 128 to the corresponding transverse linkage 126 as depicted in FIG. 6. As the work surface 102 is lowered and the glider 128 moves away from the corresponding support bracket 114a, 114b, the extension spring 157 is stretched to bias the work surface 102 toward the elevated position.

As depicted in FIGS. 18-29, in an example, each glide support 112a,

112b can include a glide rod 146 and a support frame 167. The glide rod 146 further can include a lever 150 that can be actuated to rotate the glider rod 146. The support frame 167 defines a pair of opposing bore holes 152 for rotatably receiving the glider rod 146. In this configuration, each glider 128 also can include a first glide hole 154 and a second glide hole 156, wherein the first glide hole 154 is aligned with the second glide hole 156 such that the glider 128 is slidable along the glider rod 146.

As depicted in FIGS. 24-26 and 27-29, in an example, the glider rod 146 defines a plurality of indentations 161. In this configuration, the first glide hole 154 of the glider 128 comprises a circular shape and is configured to receive a bushing 160 allowing the glide rod 146 to slide through the first glide hole 154 regardless of the rotational orientation of the glide rod 146. The second glide hole 156 comprises a flat edge 162 positioned to engage the indentations 161 of the glide rod 146 to prevent movement of glider 128 along the glide rod 146. In operation, the glide rod 146 is adapted to rotate the glide rod 146 between a first position in which the indentations 161 can be aligned with the flat edge 162 of the second glide hole 156 preventing the glider 128 from moving on the glide rod 128 and a second position in which the indentations 161 are out of alignment with the flat edge 162 allowing the glider 128 to move along the glide rod 146.

As depicted in FIGS. 30-35, in an example, each transverse linkage 126 can include a fan portion 164 defining a plurality of holes 166 arranged in an arc. In this configuration, each adjustment assembly 120a, 120b can include a plunger 168 having a moving pin 170 extendable to engage one of the holes 166 in the transverse linkage 126 to prevent rotation of the transverse linkage 126 and raising or lowering of the work surface 120 as depicted in FIGS. 31-32 and 35. Similarly, the moving pin 170 can be retracted to disengage from the transverse linkage 126 to allow raising or lowering of the work surface 120 as depicted in FIGS. 31-32 and 35. As depicted in FIGS. 33-35, in an example, each adjustment assembly 120a, 120b can include a lock lever assembly 172 can include a plunger bracket 174, rotating linkage 176 and a lever bracket 178. The plunger bracket 174 can be operably connected to the plunger pin 170 at one end and the rotatably connected to one end of the rotating linkage 176. The lever bracket 178 can be rotatably connected to the other end of the rotating linkage 176. In operation, pulling the lever bracket 178 rotates the rotating linkage 176 in a first direction, thereby pulling the plunger bracket 174 and retracting the pin 170 from the transverse linkage 126. Similarly, pushing the lever bracket 178 rotates the rotating linkage 176 in a second direction, thereby pushing the plunger bracket 174 and pushing the plunger pin 170 into engagement with the transverse linkage 126.

As depicted in FIGS. 33-35, in an example, the lock lever assembly 172 can include a lever 180 rotatably mounted to the lever bracket 178. The lever 180 can be pulled or pushed to operate the lever bracket 178 and

correspondingly the plunger pin 170. In example, the lever 180 further can include an extended rod 182 for operably connecting the lever 180 to the lever bracket 178. The extended rod 182 can be sized to position the lever 180 at a convenient position relative to the work surface 102 for access to the lever 180.

As depicted in FIGS. 36-40, in an example, the height adjustable desktop system 100 can further include a lock lever assembly 184 that can lock the work surface 102 in the lowered position. The lever 180 can further include a hook arm 186 rotatable between a lock position (shown in FIG. 38) and a release position. The foot portion 132 can also include at least one lock housing 188 corresponding to each hook arm 186. Each lock housing 188 can define at least one lock notch 190. In operation, the work surface 102 can be positioned in the lowered position and Ihe lever 180 rotated to position the hook arm 186 in the lock position such that the hook arm 186 engages the lock notch 190. The engagement of the hook arm 186 to the lock housing 188 maintains the work surface 102 in the lowered position. The lever 180 can be rotated to position the hook arm 186 into the release position in which the hook arm 186 disengages from the hook arm 186 allowing the work surface 102 to be raised into the elevated position. Many of FIGS. 1-40, e.g. FIG. 18, depict the primary top surface 108 of the work surface 102 defining a U-shaped cutout region to allow a user access to a shelf 116 defining a secondary top surface 118 for use as a keyboard tray, for example, thereby providing a bi-level work surface. As depicted in FIGS. 18-22 and 30, in at least one example, the work surface 102 can include at least one attachment bracket 119 for releasably securing the shelf 116 to the work surface 102. FIGS. 41-50B depict additional example configurations for securing the shelf 116 to the work surface 102. As described below, the keyboard tray can be suspended below the work surface using at least one keyboard attachment bracket (also referred to as a mounting bracket). In some examples, the attachment bracket can be fixedly attached to the bottom surface of the work surface behind the U-shaped cutout region, e.g., at positions that are rearwardly offset from a bottom edge of the transverse side of the work surface. In some example configurations, the attachment bracket can span between the work surface and keyboard tray. In some example configurations, the attachment bracket can be attached to the bottom surface of the keyboard tray. In other example configurations, the attachment bracket can be attached to the side edges of the keyboard tray. The attachment bracket configurations described below can be combined with any of the linkage assemblies, foot assemblies, etc.

described above in FIGS. 1 -40.

FIG. 41 is a front perspective view of an example height adjustable desktop system with a keyboard tray 201 attached adjacent a rear edge 202 of the keyboard tray 201. The keyboard tray 201 can also function alone or in combination as a shelf or alternative work surface for documents, electronic devices (e.g. phone), food items, or office supplies. The primary top surface 108 of the work surface 102 defines a cutout region 204. The cutout region 204 can be U-shaped, rectangularly shaped, curved shaped, or can have a combination of curved and straight sections and can provide a recess in the work surface 102 that can allow access to the keyboard tray 201. The example system shown in FIG. 41 includes first and second attachment brackets 206A, 206B (or keyboard tray support brackets), that can attach to the bottom surface 214 (see FIG. 42) of the primary top surface 108 of the work surface 102. The cutout region 204 can be defined by first and second side edges 208 A, 208B and a transverse edge 210 having a bottom edge 212 that extends between the first and second side edges 208A, 208B.

FIG. 42 is bottom perspective view of the example system shown in FIG. 41. The first and second attachment brackets 206 A, 206B can attach to a bottom surface 214 of the work surface 102 away from the first and second side edges 208 A, 208B of the cut-out region 204, and can attach to a tray bottom surface 216 of the keyboard tray 201 through the tray rear edge 218 of the keyboard tray. The brackets can attach behind the bottom edge 212 of the cutout region 204, e.g., at positions that are rearwardly offset from the bottom edge 212 of the transverse edge 210 of the work surface 102. The keyboard tray 201 can include a tray first side edge 220A (see also FIG. 43) and a second tray side edge 220B that can be defined by the thickness between the tray bottom surface 216 and the secondary top surface 118 (see FIG. 41). IN an example, the first and second keyboard support brackets 206A-B can include bends 220 A-D that are generally right angles as illustrated in FIG. 42. In an example, bends 222A-D can be any combination of acute angle, right angle, or obtuse angle bends.

FIG. 43 is a front perspective view of another example height adjustable desktop system with a keyboard tray attached through a side edge of the keyboard tray. In the example configuration shown in FIG. 43, the first keyboard support bracket 206A can be attached along at least a portion of the length 224 of the first tray side edge 220A of the keyboard tray 201 and the second keyboard support bracket 206B can be attached along at least a portion of the length of the second tray side edge 220 B of the keyboard tray 201.

FIG. 44 is bottom perspective view of the example system shown in FIG. 43. As seen in FIG. 44, in some example configurations, the first keyboard support bracket 206A can extend along and be attached to a portion of a length of the first tray side edge 220A of the keyboard tray 201 and the second keyboard support bracket 206B can extend along and be attached to a portion of a length 224 of the second tray side edge 220B of the keyboard tray 201. In some examples, the first and second keyboard support brackets 206A-B can extend along less man 50% of the length 224 of the first and second tray side edges 220A-B of the keyboard tray 201. In some examples, the first and second keyboard support brackets 206A-B can extend along more than 50% of the length 224 of the first and second tray side edges 220A-B of the keyboard tray 201. In some examples, the first and second keyboard support brackets 206A-B can extend along more than 75% of the length 224 of the first and second tray side edges 220 A-B of the keyboard tray 201. In some examples, such as in FIG. 44, the first and second keyboard support brackets 206A-B can extend along more than 90% of the length 224 of the first and second tray side edges 220A-B of the keyboard tray 201.

In the example shown in FIG. 44, the first and second keyboard support brackets 206 A-B can attach to the bottom surface 214 of the work surface 102 away from the first and second sides edges 208 A-B of the cut-out region 204, and can attach behind the bottom edge 212 of the cutout region 204 e.g., at positions that are have a rearward offset 226 from a bottom edge 212 of the transverse edge 210 of the work surface 102.

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of another example height adjustable desktop system with a keyboard tray. The first and second cantilevered mounting brackets 228A-B (228B hidden) shown in FIG. 45 can attach to the bottom surface 214 (see FIG. 48) of the primary top surface 108 behind the bottom edge 212 of the cutout region 204, e.g., at positions that can include a rearward offset 226 (see FIG. 48) from a bottom edge 212 of the transverse edge 210 of the work surface 102. In an example, the first and second cantilevered attachment brackets 228 A-B in FIG. 45 can be located so that they are neither attached to the first and second side edges 208A-B of the cutout region 204 nor adjacent to the first and second side edges 208 A-B of the cutout region 204. In an example, the first and second cantilevered attachment brackets 228A-B can attach to the underside of the primary top surface behind the bottom edge of the cutout region 204, e.g., at positions that can include a rearward offset 226 from a bottom edge of the transverse side of the work surface.

In an example. the height adjustable desktop system 250 can include features as described in FIGS. 1-40. A foot assembly 252 can be U-shaped. A first linkage assembly 254A can include a first linkage 256 and a second linkage 258 that can be rotably coupled to the foot assembly. A transverse linkage 260 can be rotably coupled to the second linkage 258. The upper ends of the first linkage 256 and the second linkage 258 can be rotably coupled to a glider (see FIGS. 1-40). A second linkage assembly 254B can include similar elements and features. FIG. 46 is a top view of the example system shown in FIG. 45, showing the work surface 102, keyboard tray 201 and cut-out region 204.

FIG. 47 is an enlarged top view of a portion of the example system shown in FIGS. 45 and 46. In FIG. 47, the work surface 102 is illustrated as transparent to visualize the first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A shown in dashed line. The first canulevered attachment bracket 228A can include a first attachment surface 230 that can attach the first canulevered attachment bracket 228A to the underside 214 (see FIG. 48) of the primary top surface 108 of the height adjustable work surface. In some examples, the first attachment surface 230 of the first canulevered attachment bracket 228 A can be generally trapezoidal in shape. The first attachment surface 230 can include a first forward corner 232 and a second forward corner 234. In an example, the first forward comer 232 can be more forward than the second forward corner 234. In addition, the first attachment surface 230 can include first and second rear comers 236 A-B. In an example and as seen in FIG. 47, the first forward comer 232 of the first attachment surface 232 can contact Ihe work surface 102 behind the bottom edge 212 of the transverse edge 210 of the cutout region 204, e.g., at a position that can include rearward offset 226 from a bottom edge 212 of the transverse edge 212 of the work surface 102. In an example, the first attachment surface 230 of the first canulevered mounting bracket 228A can be configured to contact the underside of the work surface at positions that are rearwardly offset from a bottom edge of the transverse side of the work surface.

FIG. 48 is a side view of a portion of the example system of FIG. 45 showing the keyboard tray 201 attached to the work surface 102 using an example attachment bracket. In FIG. 48, the work surface 102 is partially cut away to show the location of the first forward comer 232 of the first attachment surface 230 relative to Ihe bottom edge 212 of cutout region 204. In an example, as seen in FIG. 48, the first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A can include a front edge 240 that can extend vertically, and can also include an angled region 238 that can extend to the rear before curving upward to meet the first attachment surface 230. As mentioned above, the first forward comer 232 of the first attachment surface 230 can be positioned behind the bottom edge of the transverse edge of the cutout region 204, e.g., at a position that is rearwardly offset from a bottom edge of the transverse side of the work surface. The first attachment surface 230 of the first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A can be configured to contact the underside 214 of the work surface 102 at positions that can include a rearward offset 226 from a bottom edge 212 of the transverse edge 210 of the work surface 102. The cantilevered configuration can include a front edge 240 that can correspond to the front of the first tray attachment surface 242 that is forward of the first forward corner 232 of the first attachment surface 230. The keyboard tray 201 can be suspended forward of the work surface 102.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the example attachment bracket of FIG. 48. The first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A can include a first attachment surface 230 that can couple the first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A to the underside 214 of the primary top surface 108 (see FIG. 48) of the height adjustable work surface. In some examples, the attachment surface of the bracket can be generally trapezoidal in shape. As described above, in an example, the first attachment surface 230 can include two forward corners, including a first forward corner 232 (e.g. the front comer) that can be more forward than the second forward comer 234. In addition, the first attachment surface 230 can include first and second rear corners 236A-B.

The first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A can also include a first tray attachment surface 242A that, in some examples, can be configured to attach to the tray bottom surface 216 (see FIG. 48). FIG. 50A is a side view of the example attachment bracket of FIG. 49. The first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A can include a connecting member 239 that can extend between the first tray attachment surface 242 and the first attachment surface 230. The connecting member 239 can be vertically oriented, whereas the first tray attachment surface 242 and the first attachment surface 230 can be horizontally oriented. In an example described above in FIG. 44, the first tray attachment surface can be vertically oriented. The first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A and the connecting member 239 can include a front edge 240 that can extend vertically, and can include an angled region 238 that can extend to the rear before curving upward to meet the first attachment surface 230. In an example, the first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A can include a lip 246 that can extend downwardly from the first attachment surface 230 and can strengthen the first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A. FIG. 50B is a front view of the example attachment bracket of FIG. 49. In an example, the first attachment surface 230 can be angled in the same direction as the first tray attachment surface 242, such that the front view of the first cantilevered attachment bracket 228A can form a "C" shape 244. In an example, the first attachment surface 230 can be angled in the opposite direction as illustrated so that the front view of the first cantilevered attachment bracket 228 A can form a "Z" shape.

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 can include 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 inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate 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.

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

In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or "one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" can include "A but not B," "B but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that can include 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 the 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.