The invention relates to a device for suspension of substantially vertically movable objects. The invention moreover relates to a method for substantially vertically movably suspending objects.

WO0244609A1 discloses stands for computer monitors, comprising a base for support on a work surface and a suspension frame, vertically movable relative to the base. A computer monitor can be mounted on the suspension frame. This stand is designed for height adjustably positioning of a computer monitor. Similar devices have been designed for other objects such as television screens and black boards. In the stand of WO0244609A1 a balancing mechanism is provided for balancing the weight of the monitor and suspension frame, independent of the relative position of the suspension stand in the base. Balancing has to be understood in this respect as at least meaning that the weight of the monitor and suspension frame are compensated, in this case by a spring system, such that the monitor will stay in any height position relative to the base, without the necessity of locking means or the like, and that therefore very little force has to be applied to the monitor to adjust the height thereof. In the system of WO 02/44609Al friction is used to provide for a stable position of the monitor relative to the base. The force needed to reposition the monitor should overcome this friction, which means that still some effort is needed. The firm Intespring BV, Delft, The Netherlands, has developed a device for suspension of substantially vertically movable objects, marketed under the name Balancebox (www.intespring.nl). Patents have been applied for this device. In this device a base frame is mounted to a wall or ceiling, whereas a suspension frame is mounted to the base frame, such that the suspension frame can be moved in vertical direction relative to the base frame. An object in the shape of a microwave oven has been mounted on the suspension frame. Again a spring operated balancing system has been provided for balancing the weight of the suspension frame and the object supported by the suspension frame. In WO2007035096A2 a balancing system is described for balancing the weight of an object when vertically moved relative to a base. In this device a spring is provided for balancing the system, which spring can move such that the potential energy of the system is maintained during vertical displacement of an object supported by the device. Non pre-published Dutch application NL 2001125 describes a similar linear balancing system.

These known devices have the advantage that they are relatively easy to manufacture and use, wherein especially vertical displacement of objects can be done with very little to almost no force, without the necessity of powered movement of the object. A disadvantage of these devices is that they have to be designed or set for a specific weight of the object to be suspended. Weight changes by varying loads can not be automatically balanced by these devices. Adjustment is cumbersome and time consuming.

US20060130713 discloses a height adjustable table, comprising a foot and a table top with a tubular member extending into the foot. The table top with tubular member are movable relative to the foot. A balancing system is provided, mainly within the tubular member. This balancing system comprises a threaded rod extending vertically through the foot and into the tubular member, fixed to the foot at its lower end. Within the tubular member a large nut is provided on the threaded rod. The nut is carried by a first spring and second spring, positioned above and below the nut respectively, within a housing comprised in the tubular member. An up or down movement of the table top and tubular member results in a rotation of the nut relative to the rod. A brake lever is movable against an outer surface of the nut to stop or enable such rotation and thus either hold the table top in a fixed vertical position (when the brake is engaged) or allow adjustment of the height of the table top (when the brake is released). The balancing system comprises a snail cam, over which a wire is led. The wire is attached at one end to an upper end of the foot and at the opposite end to an upper end of a compression spring within the tubular member. The snail cam connected to the outer side of the housing within the tubular member and can rotate around a horizontal axis. A vertical movement of the table top thus leads to a compression or extension of the compression spring. The profile of the snail cam and the spring characteristics of the compression spring are chosen such that the force exerted by the compression spring balances the weight of the table top and tubular member with balancing system in any vertical position.

The nut has chamfered upper and lower surfaces. The upper and lower springs engage the nut by cups extending through fixed rings having complementary chamfering. The springs are designed such that when the weight of the table top is balanced the nut will be in a vertical mid position between the rings, free from both rings. Thus when the brake is released the nut can rotate relative to these rings. When however a weight change occurs on the table, the nut will vertically move relative to the housing, and may engage one of the chamfered rings, preventing rotation of the nut and thus vertical adjustment of the table top until the balance is restored again, sufficiently for the nut to be released from the chamfered ring again. In an embodiment the balancing system can comprise sensors for sensing such vertical movement of the nut relative to the housing. When such movement is sensed, a winch is provided for winding or unwinding a wire, such that a pretension of the compression spring is adjusted, restoring the balance for the weight change.

In this table during use, with the brake engaged, the friction between the brake element and the nut in vertical direction will have to prevent vertical displacement of the table top, even if a relatively large weight is placed thereon, such as a person sitting down on the table. When adjusting the table the nut has to rotate during vertical movement of the table top. Friction between the nut and springs and between the nut and rod and inertia of the nut itself, resisting rotation of the nut, will lead to the effect that when the speed of vertical movement is increased, the nut may not be able to follow such movement, leading to a vertical movement of the nut too, which in turn will lead to undesired adjustment of the balancing system. By increasing the rigidity of the springs this effect can be limited to some extend, but this will also decrease the sensitivity of the system for changes in weight of the table top and thus decrease the capacity of the table for balancing accurately. On the other hand, by reducing the rigidity of the springs the sensitivity will be increased, but then the possible speed of vertical adjustment will be limited, for the reasons given above. Moreover, this balancing system is complex in construction and use, whereas the weight of the balancing system has to be moved vertical too when the table top is moved. In this system, when the brake is engaged and a heavy load has been placed on the table, releasing the brake will allow the table top to drop over the distance between the nut and the adjacent upper chamfered ring. Similarly, upon removing a weight, the table top will rise upon release of the brake. These movements will be abrupt and undesirable. An object of the present disclosure is to provide an alternative device and method for suspending objects movable in a direction comprising at least a vertical component.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a device and method for suspending movable objects of which the load can be varied, wherein a balancing can be maintained at least substantially.

These and/or other objects can be achieved with a device and method of the present disclosure.

In a first aspect a device according to the present disclosure can be characterized by a base frame and a suspension frame, wherein at least one guide is provided between the base frame and the suspension frame. A balancing system can be provided acting on the base frame and the suspension frame. A first sensor is provided for sensing weight change on the suspension frame, and a compensation device is provided for changing a force exerted by the balancing system on the base frame and/or the suspension frame, compensating at least partly for the weight change.

In a second aspect a method according to the description can be characterized by the steps of: mounting a base frame in a fixed position on a surface or frame; mounting a suspension frame on the base frame, such that the suspension frame is movable in a substantially vertical direction relative to the base frame; balancing the suspension frame relative to the base frame by setting at least one balancing system; detecting change of a load on or in the suspension frame; and - compensating said balancing system at least partly for a detected change.

For a better understanding of the present disclosure embodiments of a device and method shall be described, with reference to the drawings. These drawings are schematically only and should not be construed as limiting the claimed invention in any way. The drawings show in:

Fig. 1 schematically in side view a storage device suspended from a device according to the disclosure, partially broken away;

Fig. 2 schematically in frontal view, side view and top view a device according to the present disclosure; Fig. 3 schematically an embodiment of a balancing system of the present disclosure;

Fig. 3A a cross section along the line IIIA-IIIA in fig. 3;

Fig. 4 schematically in frontal view with partly taken away frame part of a device according to the disclosure, showing a brake, in a first embodiment; Fig. 5A - C schematically in frontal view with partly taken away frame part of a device according to the disclosure, showing a brake, in a second, third and fourth embodiment;

Fig. 6 schematically part of the suspension frame comprising a sensor;

Fig. 7 an alternative balancing system for a device according to the present disclosure; and

Fig. 8 shows an alternative embodiment of a device according to the present description; Fig. 9 in exploded view a brake assembly with sensor, in a fifth embodiment;

Fig. 9A a detail of a brake assembly, in sectional view from above, showing two brake shoes and a connecting rod;

Fig. 10 in frontal view a brake assembly of fig. 9; Fig. 11 in side view a brake assembly of fig. 9

Fig. 12 the brake assembly of fig. 9 in sectional view along the line A - A in fig. 10;

Fig. 13 the brake assembly of fig. 9 in sectional view along the line B - B in fig. 11; Fig. 14A and B in partial sectional view along the line A - A in fig.

10 the brake assembly, with a safety released and engaged respectively;

Fig. 15 an alternative embodiment of part of a balance system, with a sensor device; and

Fig. 16 in enlarged view part of the system of fig. 15. In this description the same or similar elements or features may be indicated by the same or similar reference signs. The embodiments shown or described are disclosed as exemplary only and should by no means be understood as limiting the scope of protection sought in any way. Many variations, including combinations of embodiments or parts thereof, are possible within this scope and should be understood as having been disclosed herein too.

In this description substantially has to be understood as at least including deviations from any value, dimension or shape it refers to within at least a range of 10% or less, more specifically deviations at least in a range of about 5%. With respect to substantially vertical this has to be understood as including angles relative to a vertical direction which are such that the force of gravity working on the suspension frame, either directly or by an object carried on said suspension frame, will force the suspension frame down along the guide and/or the base frame, which force of gravity is compensated at least partly and preferably substantially entirely by the balancing system. Preferably the angle is within -15 and 15 degrees from vertical, more preferably between -10 and 10 degrees, even more preferably between -5 and 5 degrees although the angle can be larger. A direction of movement comprising at least a substantially component should thus be understood as including at least non-horizontal direction of movement. In this description as a storage device a cupboard such as a kitchen cabinet will be described and disclosed. However, the storage device can be any other storage device suitable for suspension for vertical movement, such as but not limited to other cupboards, electrical or mechanical appliances such as but not limited to kitchen, bathroom, shower or tanning appliances, shelving, book cases and other such devices. In stead of a storage device another device can be carried on the suspension frame or be part thereof, able to bear a changeable weight. In this description a balancing system will inter alia be described.

This is preferably though not limited to a linear balancing system.

Fig. 1 shows schematically in side view a suspension device 1 suspending a storage device 2 from a wall 3. The wall 3 extends substantially vertically and can for example be a wall of a room, inside or outside, and can be made of any suitable material. In stead of a wall 3 any other artifact or natural surface or construction could be used, such as but not limited to a frame, fence, ceiling or floor could be used. The device 1 comprises a base frame 4, which can also be referred to as a wall frame, and a suspension frame 5. The base frame 4 is mounted by any suitable means on the wall 3, for example by screws or bolts. The suspension frame 5 mounted on the base frame 4 such that it is movable along the base frame 4, in a direction V. The direction V can be substantially vertical, can be substantially parallel to the wall and can be substantially parallel to a frontal surface 6 of the base frame 4. A force of gravity G will act on the storage device 2 and the suspension frame 5, which will try to force the storage device 2 down. In the suspension device 1 a balancing system 7 is provided, of which embodiments will be discussed hereafter, countering the force of gravity G at least substantially, such that the storage device and suspension frame will stay in any position relative to the base frame 4 when no external force F is applied upward, indicated by arrow F _u , or downward direction, indicated by arrow Fd. The external force can be provided by a person pushing the storage device 2 up or down, or by adding to or taking away weight from the storage device 2, for example by adding or removing items to or from it. The balancing system 7 is laid out to balance the weight, such that the force F to move the device deliberately up or down by a person, for adjusting the height, is preferably as low as possible, for example a few Newton. This means that any weight added or removed from the storage device 2 would mean that the balancing system 7 would be under or over dimensioned, in the sense that when weight is removed the balancing system 7 would move the storage device upward, whereas when weight is added to the device, gravity force G would pull the storage device 2 downward, against the counter action of the balancing system 7. To counter these effects in the present suspension device 1 a compensation device 8 is provided, which can adjust the balancing system 7 based on at least weight change of the storage device 2, whereas it will allow the storage device 2 still to be moved up and down with relatively low forces F _u , Fd. To this end at least a first sensor 9 is provided in, on or near the suspension device 1 and/or the storage device 2, for sensing directly or indirectly weight changes of the storage device 2 and/or the suspension frame 5, and a control 10 to control the compensation device 8.

In fig. 2 schematically an embodiment of a suspension device 1 is shown. This comprises a balancing system 7, for example as shown schematically in fig. 3. The suspension device comprises the base frame 4 and the suspension frame 5. The base frame 4 can be substantially window shaped, having two uprights 11, 12 and two horizontal connectors 13, 14. The sides 15 of the uprights 11, 12 facing away from each other or side surfaces thereof can form first guide paths. The suspension frame 5 can also be substantially window shaped, having second uprights 16, 17 and horizontal connectors 18, 19. The inner surfaces 20 of the uprights, facing each other or side surfaces thereof can form second guide paths. Bearings B such as for example but not limited to ball bearings, slide bearings or wheels can be provided between the first and second guide paths, forming guides M for allowing linear movement of the suspension frame 5 relative to the base frame 4, as discussed here above.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 2, two plates 21 are mounted to the front and back of the uprights 11, 12, providing a space 22 between the plates 21 and uprights 11, 12, open to the lower side of the base frame 4. The balancing system 7 extends through at least part of this space 22. However, this could be construed in different manners which would be directly clear to a skilled person.

Fig. 3 and 3A schematically show an embodiment of a balancing system 7. This balancing system 7 comprises a first set of springs 23 and a second set of springs 24. In the drawings the springs have been shown in outline only, as cylinders. The springs can be linear springs, such as but not limited to single or double wire coiled springs. In this embodiment each set 23, 24 comprises two parallel springs 23A, 23B and 24A, 24B respectively, for symmetry purposes and for the sake of providing sufficient force within a compact space. However, different numbers of springs could be used in either set 23, 24, for example only one or more than two, whereas the number of springs could differ for the different sets 23, 24.

The first ends 25 of the springs 23A, B of the first set 23 are connected to the upper connector 13, for example near a middle part thereof, whereas the opposite second ends 26 of the springs 23A, B are connected to a first cross beam 27. The first ends 28 of the springs 24A, B of the second set 24 are also connected near the upper connector 13 of the base frame, for example near opposite ends thereof, preferably in a manner as will be explained hereafter, whereas the opposite second ends 29 of the springs 24A, B are connected to the lower connector 19 of the suspension frame 5. A compensator 31 is provided, which comprises a parallelogram 32 of two sets of two bars 33A, B and 34A, B respectively. The bars 33A, B are pivotably connected to each other in a first pivot point 35 which is connected to the first cross beam 27. The bars 34A, B are pivotably connected to each other in a second pivot point 36. The bar 33A is pivotably connected to the bar 34A in a third pivot point 37, the bar 33B is pivotably connected to the bar 34B in a fourth pivot point 38. At each of the third and fourth pivot points 37, 38 a guide element 39 is provided, for example a bearing, a guide block, a wheel or the like. Each guide element 39 is pressed against a guide surface 40, such as a track, which can have a bent shape as shown in fig. 3, with the apex 30 facing each other. The tracks are connected to the base frame 4, in this embodiment in a fixed position, and in this embodiment the tracks have a fixed shape. The first cross beam 27 is connected to the lower first pivot point 35, such that the springs 23A, 23B can exert a pulling force on the first pivot point 35 in the direction of the base frame 4, especially the upper connector 13 thereof. The suspension frame 5 is provided with at least one connecting rod 41, which extends between and is connected to the lower connector 19 of the suspension frame 5 and the upper, second pivot point 36 of the compensator 31, extending through an opening 27A in the cross beam 27. In an alternative embodiment the crossbeam 27 can extend between two or more connecting rods 41 or through a longitudinal opening in the rod 41. In the embodiment shown the crossbeam 27 is formed by a plate extending between the arms 33, through which an axis of the pivot point 35 extends and to which the springs 23 are connected. Upon movement up or down of the suspension frame 5 relative to the base frame 4 therefore the compensator 31 will move too, in the same direction. The second pivot point 36 will move at the same rate as the suspension frame 4, over the same distance. Since the guide elements 39 will be forced along the guide surfaces or tracks 40, they will be moved towards or away from each other, depending on their position relative to the guide surfaces 40. This results in an alteration in the shape of the parallelogram, meaning that the distance D between the first and second pivot point 35, 36 will be altered and thus the rate and distance of movement of the first pivot point 35 will differ from that of the second pivot point 36 and thus of the suspension frame 5. The springs 23A, B of the first set 23 will force the guide elements 39 outward, against the surface or tracks 40. During movement of the suspension frame 5 relative to the base frame 4 the change in length of the springs 23A, B of the first set 23 will not be linear and/or not be directly proportional to the movement. The shape and dimensions of the parallelogram of the compensator 31 and the surfaces or tracks 40 can be designed such that the length of the springs of the two sets 23, 24 is in each position of the suspension frame 5 in accordance with the force needed to be exerted by the springs in that position, based on at least the spring characteristics of the respective springs, for balancing purposes. As indicated above, a balancing system 7 will be designed for a specific load and thus force F as a result of gravity G working on the suspension frame 5. A change in this load will lead to unbalance and thus movement of the suspension frame 5 and thus of the storage device 2 if no counter action is taken. As indicated in the present invention a compensation device 8 has been provided to counteract this effect.

In a simple embodiment the storage device 2 can be provided with a first sensor 9 mounted under a storage surface 50 of the storage device 2. The sensor 9 can be a weight sensor or can comprise such weight sensor for weighing a load on the storage surface 50 or for sensing changes in such weight. The sensor 9 is connected to the control 10. The compensation device 8 can further, as shown in fig. 3, comprise a winch 51, for example mounted on the base frame 4 and at least one cable 52 connected between the winch 51 and an end 28 of one or more of the springs 23, 24, preferably the springs 24. Upon a weight change, sensed by the sensor 9, the control 10 will activate the winch 51 in order to wind the cable 52 up or release some of the cable 52, thereby respectively lengthening or shortening the spring 24 connected to the cable 52. This means that the force exerted by the or each relevant spring or sets of springs 23, 24 will be altered in proportion to the weight change. The sensor 9 could also be placed in other positions, one of which is schematically indicated also in fig. 1, in the base frame 4. As described hereafter in stead of cables other means can be used for adjusting the springs or otherwise compensating weight changes, such as, but not limited to, motors, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders or slides. In all embodiments a brake 53 can be provided for fixating the suspension frame 5 in a stationary position relative to the base frame 4, at least during weight changes such as for example shown in figures 2-5. An operating element 54 can be provided for activating and/or deactivating the brake 53. The operating element can be operated by a user, such as but not limited to a hand or foot operated switch, a proximity switch, or push or pull button or a lever. In another embodiment the operating element can be or comprise a second sensor 55, which can for example be one of a movement sensor, a contact sensor such as operable by a knob or handle, an approach sensor, acoustic or optical sensor or a combination thereof. Other sensors can be possible. By way of example a movement sensor 55 is shown in fig. 1, connected to a door 56 of the storage device 2. Upon opening of the door 56, the movement sensor 55 will sense the movement of the door and activate the brake. Upon closure of the door 56 the sensor 55 will deactivate the brake 53 and allow movement of the storage device 2 again. In a comparable manner such second sensor 55 could be used with for example but not limited to drawers or lids. Also the first sensor 9 as disclosed in fig. 1 could be used for activating the brake 53, as soon as a weight change is detected, wherein for example a timer can be provided which will for example keep the brake 53 activated for a predetermined length of time or until no further weight change is detected within a certain time frame. This can be controlled by the control 10.

In all embodiments comprising one or more brakes 53 it can be advantageous to couple the brake 53 to one part of the base frame 4 and suspension frame 5, acting on the other of the two frames 4, 5, wherein the coupling to the relevant frame 4, 5 allows some movement relative to the frame 4, 5, especially in up and down direction, especially when gripping the other frame 4, 5. The brake can be suspended from one of the base frame 4 and the suspension frame 5 by suspension means allowing relative movement of the brake 53 and the other of the base frame 4 and the suspension frame 5, which relative movement is small compared to the freedom to move of the suspension frame 4 relative to the base frame 5. The relative movement can for example be less than one or two centimeters or even less than 5 millimeters, whereas the freedom to move T vertically of the suspension frame 5 relative to the base frame 4 can for example be several decimeters to over a meter. This relative movement can be achieved with the entire brake 53 but can also be achieved with for example movement of brake shoes 56 within the brake 53 or movement of part of the suspension frame 5 relative to the further suspension frame 5, if the brake 53 is mounted on the base frame 4, or movement of part of the base frame 4 relative to the further base frame 4, if the brake 53 is mounted on the suspension frame 5. The possible relative movement of the frame parts 4, 5 allows detection and adjustment of the balance with the brake engaged. Thus upon release of the brake the system can be balanced, even if the weight carried has changed during engagement of the brake 53. In fig. 2 and 3 an embodiment is shown in which two cables 52 are connected with one end to the upper ends 28 of the springs 24A, B of the second set 24. The other ends are wound around a winch 51, for example a double working winch 51, preferably electrically operated. A first sensor 9 is provided near the brake 53. In fig. 4 an embodiment of a brake 53 is shown, supported on the lower connector 14 of the base frame 4 by a third spring system 57. The brake 53 can for example have one or more brake shoes 58, which can be moved in and out of engagement with the connecting rod 41. When in engagement, the rod 41 and thus the suspension frame 5 is fixed in position relative to the brake 53, whereas when they are out of engagement the suspension frame 5 is free to move up and down along the base frame 4 as described. The brake 53 can be operated electrically and/or manually. Obviously it could also be possible to interconnect the ends 28 of the springs 24 and manipulate them by a cable 52 simultaneously. In stead of cables 52 other devices could be used to influence the force exerted by the springs, such as electrical motors shortening or lengthening the springs, a balloon inflated or deflated within or around the springs, gripping the spring at a height, shortening the effective length or other means known in the art. The third spring system 57 can comprise two sets of springs 59, positioned on opposite upper and lower sides of the brake 53. This means that the brake 53 can move over a relatively short distance d up and down relative to the connector 14 and thus relative to the base frame 4. When the brake 53 is activated and the load on the suspension frame 5 is balanced by the balancing system 7, the brake 53 will stay in one position, defined by the springs 59, especially the characteristics of the springs 59 of the third spring system 57. Preferably the springs 59 of the third system 57 are substantially identical, such that in this situation the brake 53 is suspended in a mid position relative to an upper and lower part 14A, B of the lower connector 14 of the base frame 4, as shown in fig. 4. If the load on the suspension frame 5 is changed when the brake 53 is engaged, the brake 53 will be urged up or down from the mid position. A first sensor 9 is positioned near the brake 53, detecting this movement of the brake 53 relative to the base frame 4 and providing a signal to the control 10. If weight has been added to the storage device 2 the suspension frame 5 will want to go down and the brake 53 will thus be pushed down against the lower set of springs 59 of the third spring system 57. This relative movement will be sensed by the sensor 9, which will activate the control 10. The control 10 will then activate the winch 51 to wind some cable 52, so as to stretch the springs 24A, B of the second set 24, further tensioning these springs 24A, B, which springs 24A, B will then compensate for the added weight, rebalancing the balance system 7. If on the contrary weight has been removed from the storage device 2, the control 10 will activate the winch 51 to unroll some cable 52, shortening the springs 24A, B of the second set 24 and thus compensating for the lowering of the load exerted on the suspension frame 5 and rebalancing the balancing system 7. In the embodiment of fig. 4 the sensor 9 can be a Hall sensor or similar magnetic sensor. The sensor 9 will sense a change in the magnetic field as a result of the movement of the brake 53 relative to the sensor 9. The brake 53 can have a metallic housing or metallic parts. Adjustment of the balancing system 7 will bring the brake 53 back to the mid position and the sensor 9 will sense again the magnetic field value indicative for this mid position.

In the embodiment of fig. 5A the sensor 9 is a capacity sensor. In this embodiment one side 61 of a capacitor 60 is mounted on or coupled to the brake 53, whereas the other side 62 of the capacitor 60 is mounted on the frame part 14A. A displacement of the brake 53 will be sensed by the capacitor 60 by change of the capacity of the capacitor 60 when a current is lead through the capacitor. Adjustment of the balancing system 7 will bring the brake 53 back to the mid position and the sensor 9 will sense again the capacity value indicative for this mid position.

In the embodiment of fig. 5B the sensor 9 comprises one or more load cells 63, in this embodiment enclosed between the brake 53 and a frame part 14A, B. A movement of the brake 53 relative to the frame part 14A, B will lead to a load change on the load cells 63. Adjustment of the balancing system 7 will bring the brake 53 back to the mid position and the sensor will sense again the load value indicative for this mid position. This load value can for example be zero when balanced.

In the embodiment of fig. 5C the sensor 9 can be an electrical sensor such as a potentiometer 64. A wheel 65 connected to the shaft of the potentiometer 64 can be positioned against the brake 53, such that upon relative movement of the brake 53 the wheel 65 will rotate and the potentiometer will sense a change in resistance, indicative for the displacement. Adjustment of the balancing system 7 will bring the brake 53 back to the mid position and the sensor will sense again the resistance value indicative for this mid position.

Obviously all kinds of other types of sensors 9 can be used for assessment of relative movement of the brake 53 to the relevant frame part 4, 5, such as but not limited to optical, acoustical, mechanical, chemical and/or electrical sensors or combined sensors of the types described. Mid position has to be understood as meaning a position indicative for the suspension frame 5 with the storage device 2 being balanced relative to the base frame 4 or having a predetermined, desired force remaining into one of the up or down direction. The latter can for example be used to let the balancing system 7 exert a force on the suspension frame when the brake 53 is released, to bring the suspension frame 5 into one of the upper or lower end positions, that is maximal up or maximal down. The maximum path of travel is indicated in fig. 1 by T, for this embodiment.

In the control 10 an algorithm can be provided for assessing the weight change of the storage device 2 based on a signal from the sensor 9, indicative for a weight change of the storage device 2. This can be used for control of the compensation device 8. This algorithm can for example control the winch to wind up or release the amount of cable 52 suitable for compensating for the weight change. In another embodiment the process of compensating for the weight change can be an iterative process. In fig. 6 part of an alternative embodiment is shown, in which the sensor 9 is positioned in the rod 41 or between the rod 41 and the suspension frame 5. When the rod 41 is engaged by the brake 53, which brake can in this embodiment be in a fixed position relative to the base frame 4, then a load change on the suspension frame 5 will be sensed by the sensor 9, which can for example be a load cell 63, such as comprising one or more strain gauges. This will allow amendment of the tension in the springs as discussed above, by the compensation device 8. A load cell can be understood also as a weight sensor or a weight change sensor.

Fig. 7 shows an alternative embodiment for a balancing system 7 with compensation means 8. In this embodiment a cable 66 carrying the load of the suspension frame 5, schematically indicated by the block 67, is lead over a wheel 68 having a snail housing type outer surface 69. An end 70 of the cable 66 is connected to a first spring 23, which is led to the base frame 4. At the opposite side of the load 67 the cable 66 is connected with the opposite end 71 to a second spring 24, which is also connected to the base frame 4. Vertical displacement of the load 66 will lead to a change of position of the cable 66 on the surface 69, changing the radius of the part of the surface 69 over which the cable is positioned, thus adjusting the change in the length of at least the first spring 23, balancing the device 1. A brake 53 is provided for braking the wheel 68 when a load change is made or, as discussed before, at least with a second sensor 55 an action is sensed activating the brake, such as but not limited to opening a door, lid or drawer of the storage device 2. The brake 53 can move relative to the base frame 4 over a short distance, as discussed here above. Again a sensor 9 is provided, for sensing said relative movement of the brake 53, activating the control to adjust the spring length of in this embodiment the first spring 23, rebalancing the balance system 7. In this embodiment a cable 52 is connected to the spring 24 and wound around a winch 51, such that when the cable 52 is wound on the winch 51, the spring length will increase, whereas when the cable 52 is unwound the spring length is decreased, adjusting the spring load.

The control 10 can comprises means for setting a pretension of the springs 23 and/or 24. This can be done once, for example during manufacturing, or can be allowed to be operated by a user, depending on his desires. The pretension can for example be set such that upon release of the brake in any position the balancing system will force the suspension frame to an end position, for example fully upward or fully downward, with low speed. Such pretension can for example be a few Newton. This will mean that when the storage device 2 has been used, for example by adding or retracting load, and the brake is released, the storage device will slowly return to a storage position. Obviously, by setting the pretension higher, the speed of movement could be increased. The control 10 could be provided with a knob, allowing the user to choose between no pretension or a pretension by for example pressing or turning said knob. Preferably the device 1 only requires energy, such as electrical energy when the brake is activated, whereas the balancing system 7 can be purely mechanical. Alternatively or additionally a pretension could be set or a spring configuration could be used for slowing down or limiting movement speed and/or acceleration/deceleration of the relevant part 4, 5. In an alternative embodiment a or the sensor 9 such as a weight sensor as previously described, can be mounted between the base frame 4 and the wall 3 or other surface the base frame 4 is mounted on, such that weight changes of the entire device can be measured and used in the compensation device 8. In fig. 8 an alternative embodiment of a device 1 is disclosed, wherein a storage device 2 is movably suspended by a guide M, mounted to a wall 3 by rail 78. The storage device 2 can move up and down in the direction V. Distanced from the guide M, for example at an opposite side of the wall 3 as indicated in fig. 8, the balancing system 7 and/or the compensation device 8 can be provided, for example as shown in any one of figures 2 - 7. In this embodiment a cable 80 is provided between the suspension frame 5 and the storage device 2, led in this embodiment over guide wheels 77 and through an opening 79 in the wall 3. In an embodiment the guide M can be embodied in different means, for example the wheels 77 when the storage device is suspended from said cable 80, for example from a ceiling, or can be formed by the guides between the suspension frame 5 and the base frame 4, if this is provided above the storage device. In another embodiment the storage device could be carried on rigid or flexible posts above the suspension frame 5, so that it can be pushed up by the suspension frame 5.

The element on which the brake engages, such as the rod 41, preferably has a substantially smooth outer surface, at least along the part where the brake 53 can engage the rod 41. This means that the brake 53 can engage the rod 41 in any desired position and that the rod 41 can move freely relative to the brake 53, once the brake is fully released. Inertia or friction play no role during such movement, as it does in the prior art. The rod can be a straight metal or plastic rod or profile, and can have for example but not limited to a rectangular, especially square or multi angled cross section or for example an oval or round cross section. In embodiments of a device of this description a brake 53 can be provided, connected to one of the base frame 4 and the suspension frame 5 and which can engage on an element such as the rod 41 connected to the other of the base frame 4 and the suspension frame 5 with at least one brake shoe 58, 107, 110, fixing the element 41 relative to the brake shoe 58. 107, 110 in a braking position, preventing movement of the element 41 relative to the frame part 4, 5 to which the element 41 is connected. The brake 53 and/or the brake shoe 58, 107, 110 in said braking position is moveable relative to the frame 4, 5 to which the brake 53 is connected. This allows some relative movement of the frame parts in the braked position. Preferably a sensor is provided for sensing the position of the brake 53 and/or brake shoe 58, 107, 110 relative to the frame 4, 5 to which the brake 53 is connected. This means that in the braked position the balance of the system can be checked by said sensor, and can be adjusted before releasing the brake 53. Software in the control 10 can for example be set such that one extreme position of the frame parts 4, 5 is set during braking, and that upon activating the control for releasing the brake 53, the balance system will be adjusted such that a balance is obtained again, before the actual brake is released. This will prevent any undesired, sudden movement of the frame parts 4, 5 relative to each other upon release of the brake 53. In another setting the control can constantly or intermittently check and adjust the balance when the brake is engaged.

In fig. 9 - 14 an alternative embodiment of a brake assembly 53 is shown, which will be discussed hereafter. Such brake assembly 53 can be used in embodiments disclosed herein or in or with other similar balancing systems, such as but not limited to embodiments of fig. 1 - 8. In the figures the braking system 53 is shown on a horizontal connector 14, which can be similar to the other embodiments shown.

In fig. 9 an exploded view is shown of the braking system 53 and part of the connecting rod 41. The assembly comprises a substantially U- shaped bracket 100, positioned around the rod 41 or similar engaging element. The bracket has two substantially parallel legs 101, extending on either side of the rod 41 and a connecting end wall 102. A lever or arm 103 is placed between the legs 101, pivotable around an axis 104 extending perpendicular to the legs 101, substantially parallel to the wall 102. The axis 104 extends at a distance Xi from the rod 41, the arm 103 having a length La which is far larger than said distance Xi, for example but not limited to about 10 times, such that a leverage effect is obtained. At the end 105 of the arm 103 facing the rod 41 a slot 106 is provided, having a substantially semi cylindrical cross section, having an axis 108 parallel to the axis 104. A first brake shoe 107 is provided in said slot 106. The brake shoe 107 can have a substantially cylindrical shape, fitting the slot 106, such that the brake shoe 107 can rotate over at least some angle around the axis 108, as shown in fig. 9A, within and guided by the slot 106. The brake shoe 107 has an axial length Lb which is larger than the width Wb of the rod 41 in the same direction. In the brake shoe 107 a slotted opening 109 is provided, centrally seen in axial direction and having an axial width similar to the width Wb of the rod 41, and a depth C which for example can correspond to about the radius of the brake shoe 107 or about half the thickness of the rod 41 measure perpendicular to the length direction of the brake shoe 107. This means that the brake shoe 107 can embrace the rod 41 about halfway in cross section, as shown in fig. 9A, by the opening 109. A second, substantially identical brake shoe 110 can be provided on the opposite side of the rod 41, extending partly in a second slot 106A, substantially identical to the slot 106. The slot 106A can be provided in the wall 102 and can embrace the rod 41 from the opposite side, as for example shown in fig. 9A and 13. The bottom surfaces 111 of the brake shoes 107, 110 form engaging surfaces for engaging frictionally the outer surface of the rod 41 for braking. By pivoting the arm 103 around the axis 104 the one brake shoe 107 can be brought into and out of engagement with the rod 41. When brought into engagement the brake shoe 107 will at the same time force the rod 41 into engagement with the opposite brake shoe 110. As can be seen in fig. 13 the arm can extend substantially above the axis 104, except for a bulge 112 enclosing the axis 104, meaning that there will be a moment arm N between the centre of the axis 104 and the centre of the engaging surfaces 111, enlarging the force exerted when engaging the surface of the rod 41.

As can be seen in for example fig. 13 a bottom surface 113 can be provided between the legs 101, below the arm 103. A first spring 114, such as a coil spring, can extend between the bottom surface 113 and the end 115 of the arm 103, forcing the end 115 of the arm 103 up, away from the bottom surface, thus biasing the brake shoe 107 against the rod 41. This means that the brake 53 is biased in the braking position by spring 114. An operating element 116 can be provided near the end 115 of the arm 103, for operating the brake 53. This operating element can for example be but is not limited to a cable 117, such as for example but not limited to a Bowden cable, or a motor, such as for example but not limited to an electric motor. In the embodiment of a Bowden cable 117 the end 118 of the outer shield 119 can be fixed to the bottom surface 113, whereas the end 120 of the inner cable

121 can engage the end 115 of the arm 104 through an intermediate second spring 122, for example a coil spring. This means that when the cable is activated, pulling the end 120 of the inner cable 121 towards the end 118 of the shield 119, that is towards the bottom surface 113, the second spring

122 will be compressed, before and/or during compression of the first spring 114 and pivoting the brake shoe 107 out of braking engagement with the rod 41. This means that during activation of the operating element 116, such as the cable 117, that is upon pulling the inner cable 121 towards a release position of the brake 53, the brake shoe 107 will be pulled out of said braking engagement relatively slowly and smoothly, thus dosing the braking force. When using another operating element or device 116, such as a motor, the same or a similar construction can be used for the same effect. Alternatively the normal position can be the released position, when the operating element 116 is for example normally activated and only released when necessary.

As can be seen in fig. 9A, at the edges of the engaging surfaces 111 small indentations 123 can be provided. This has the advantage that if the rod 41 is deformed slightly, for example by a safety provision 124 as will be discussed hereafter, this will not interfere with proper functioning of the brake system 53. The brake shoes 106, 110 can be made of any suitable material, such as but not limited to plastic, rubber, ceramics or metal. As can for example be seen in fig. 9, 10 and 13, a sensor 9 can be provided near the bracket 100, especially close to the wall 102. In the embodiment shown a lip 125 is provided, extending from the wall 102 in a direction generally away from the legs 101, into a space enclosed between two legs 126 of a substantially C-shaped sensor body 127. In this embodiment the sensor 9 can be generally comparable to the embodiment of fig. 5A, in as far as an approach or distance sensor type can be used. In this embodiment both legs are provided with a sensor element 128, such that the position of the lip 125 can be sensed relative to at least one of these sensor elements 128. The bracket 100 can be suspended relative to the cross bar 14 by for example springs 129, such as coil springs, or other means to allow vertical movement of the bracket relative to the bar 14, and preferably biasing the bracket into a normal position as discussed before, indicating a balanced system. If the system is out of balance, the sensors will activate the balancing system 7 for bringing the system back in balance, thus moving the lip 125 back into the normal position, preferably in the middle between the two sensor elements 128. Especially by attaching the springs 129 at one end to the bracket 100 and at the opposite side to the bar 14, both movements up and down of the bracket 100 relative to the bar 14 can be sensed, and the biased normal position be defined. In an alternative embodiment the suspension can be similar to that as shown in e.g. fig. 5.

As indicated above, a safety provision 124 can be provided, for preventing undesired relative movement of the frame parts, for example when a load of the suspension frame 5 exceeds a predetermined maximum load. Depending on for example the intended use of the system such maximum can for example be hundreds of grams or kilos. The sensitivity can for example be set by the springs 129, the sensitivity of the elements 128, the distance between the lip 125 and the sensing elements 128 in the normal position or by software. The safety provision 124 comprises an additional brake, which is engaged when such maximum load is reached or exceeded, and is preferably only released when such maximum load is no longer exceeded.

In the embodiments disclosed in fig. 9 - 14, the safety device comprises two additional brake elements or brake shoes 130, extending on opposite side surfaces 131 of the rod 41, which side surfaces 131 are not engaged by the brake shoes 107, 110 or at least not by the surfaces 111 thereof. In the embodiment shown these additional brake elements 130 can be substantially cylindrical and can for example be made of metal or plastic, such as but not limited to hard plastic. Hard plastic is to be understood as at least meaning plastic which is comparable to or harder than the material of the brake shoes 106, 110. A hard material can be advantageous in that it will not significantly deform, especially not plastically, when pushed against the rod 41. In an embodiment the cylindrical brake elements 130 rest in slots 132 in a bracket 134 fixed to the connector 14, which bracket 134 can support the springs 129 too. The slots 132 are placed on either side of the rod 41, open towards the upper side and towards the rod 41. The slots have a cross section such that they narrow slightly towards a bottom 135 thereof. This can for example be achieved by a sloping side wall 136 opposite the rod 41. The wall can for example slope at an angle Y of between 1 and 10 degrees, preferably between 1 and 7 degrees, for example about 4 degrees, relative to a vertical plane M. The slots 132 are preferably such that when the braking element 130 rests near an upper, open side 137 of the slot 132, as shown in fig. 14A, the rod 41 can move freely past the elements 130, whereas when the braking elements 130 are forced into the slots 132, as shown in fig. 14B, they are also forced against the surfaces 131 of the rod 41, due to the narrowing of the slotl32, thus locking the bracket 100 relative to the rod 41 and preventing any movement thereof relative to the rod 41. This will happen for example when a relatively large weight is placed on or attached to the storage device 2 or at or to the frame part 5.

In the embodiment shown the bracket 100 is provided with two wings 138 extending from opposite sides of the legs 101, which wings 138 rest on the upper ends of the springs 129. Bolts (not shown) can extend through the wings 138 and springs 129 and can be bolted into the connector 14, such as to fix the bracket 100 and springs 129 into place and allow some vertical movement of the bracket 100 relative to the connector 14. The bracket 100 can be provided with shoulders 140 which can, when the bracket 100 is moved towards the connector 14, force the elements 130 into the slots 132, as described here above. In an embodiment the bracket 100, especially the legs 101 can be provided with slots 141 open to opposite sides, in which the elements 130 can rest, such that they have no or only limited space for moving up and down within these slots, but ample space for moving within said slots towards and away from the rod 41. An upper side of the slot 141 can thus form said shoulder 140.

In fig. 14A and B this safety provision 124 is shown in more detail, in free and locked positions respectively. As indicated by the arrows F and Fm, when the rod 41 is moved relative to the connector 14 in a downward direction, such that the springs 129 are compressed, the elements 130 will be forced towards each other and against the rod 41. Upon removal of the force resulting in the relative movement F, the springs 129 will force the bracket away from the connector 14 again, allowing the elements 130 to move back up and release the rod 41 again. This safety provision can for example prevent movement of the suspension frame 5 relative to the frame part 4 when somebody sits on the element suspended from the suspension frame 5, when such frame is not intended for such sitting purpose, in which case such person would lead to an overload. Control 10 can be or comprise software for operating the balance system 7, for example based on but not limited to information obtained from sensors 9 or 55 and/or operating elements, such as but not limited to elements 54 or 116. In an embodiment the software can be designed to engage the brake, balance the system and then release the brake again. In an embodiment the normal position of the brake can be engaged, such that relative movement of the frame parts 4 and 5 is blocked, in another embodiment the normal position can be released, such that relative movement of the frame parts 4 and 5 is possible. These normal positions can be set by the software. In an embodiment the control 10 can be provided with means for switching between these two normal positions.

In an embodiment of fig. 1 for example the normal position can be chosen to be released, when the door 56 or drawer or the like of the storage space 2 is closed, as discussed before. In another embodiment, for example of a toilet table comprising a wash basin, a toilet bowl or a sink or such element, the control 10 and preferably software thereof can be set such that the normal position is engaged. This means that the element cannot be moved unless the relevant operating element, such as elements or device 54, 116 is activated. At that time the control 10 will set the balancing system 7 in motion by sensing any possible unbalance and correcting this unbalance if possible, as described before, where after the brake 53 will be released and the element such as a storage device 2 can be moved vertically. The software can also be designed to for example allow setting of an allowable weight change, pretension of the springs of the balancing system, allowable speeds and accelerations and the like. In fig. 15 and 16 an alternative embodiment is shown of a system according to the description, similar to the embodiment as disclosed in and discussed with reference to especially fig. 2 and 3. In this embodiment a further sensor assembly 150 is provided, for sensing position and/or alterations in position and/or relative speeds of the frame parts 4 and 5, relative to each other. To this end the sensor assembly 150 comprises a strip 151, attached to one of the frame parts 4, 5 or for example to a fixed object such as a wall, and a sensor element 152 which can detect its position relative to and/or its movement relative to the strip 151. The sensor assembly can be coupled to the control 10, for controlling for example speed and/or acceleration of the suspension frame 5 relative to the base frame 4. This can for example be regulated by partly engaging the brake when the speed or acceleration exceeds a preferred maximum speed and/or acceleration, or to set a pattern of movement as desired and/or by adjusting (pre)tension of one or more of the springs, to which end again the software can be designed. Such sensor assemblies 150 are as such generally known and available. In an embodiment the strip 151 can be provided with metal elements, detectable by an inductive sensor, or can be provided with an optical readable surface, detectable by an optical sensor, such as an opto- coupler. In another embodiment the sensor assembly can comprise a contact position sensor, similar to a sensor assembly as described with reference to fig. 5C. By limiting the speed and/or acceleration excess forces on parts of the assembly can be prevented or at least limited, whereas safety for both the device and its surroundings can be increased. Moreover this can enhance a smooth operation of the device and prevent damage and premature wear of system parts. The invention is by no means limited to the embodiments shown and described herein. Many variations are possible within the scope of the invention.

The balancing system can be designed differently, for example as described in WO0244609A1 or in WO2007035096, or in

PCT/NL2008/050802. One or more intermediate frames could be provided, such that a larger path of travel could be obtained. Between each two adjacent frames then a balancing system and/or a compensation device could be provided. In stead or augmented to amending the tension or effective length of one or more of the springs, the shape and/or relative position of the tracks 40 can be altered depending on the weight and weight changes of the suspension frame 5 and a storage device 2 coupled thereto. The suspension frame can be an integral part of the storage device. In an embodiment in the device 1 can be made such that the storage device can only be opened or reached by a person for changing loads when it is in a lower end position. In such embodiment a brake would not be necessary. The storage device can be mounted to the suspension frame in a different position, for example on top of the top side or to a side thereof. A storage device can be any element or combination of elements that can support loads, such as but not limited to said chests, cupboards, drawers but also tables, chairs, reading stands, wardrobes and the like. A safety provision can also be devised as a means which prevents the brake from being released when an overload is detected. These and many more variations, including combinations of parts of the embodiments shown are considered to have been disclosed herein too.