Modular transforming trolley with adjustable axle mechanism for office use
View Patent ↗The present invention relates to a versatile, adjustable, non-rotating axle device engineered to enhance flexibility and ergonomic comfort in diverse work and living environments. This device supports various platform surfaces, enabling smooth, secure vertical adjustments to accommodate different user postures—from seated to standing or any intermediate position. It incorporates a choice of gas-spring or electric lift mechanisms for precise, controlled movement, along with integrated safety stops and vibration-damping features to ensure stability and user safety. An optional digital memory interface allows for personalized ergonomic settings, facilitating quick and repeatable height adjustments. Designed to function without reliance on specialized mounting arms, the axle device offers a universal solution for adaptable, ergonomically optimized setups across a broad spectrum of applications.
1 . An adjustable, non-rotating axle device for supporting one or more modular tops, comprising:
a vertically adjustable axle mechanism including a non-rotating spindle configured to provide height adjustment for ergonomic positioning during seated or standing work;
a lift assembly coupled to said non-rotating spindle and configured to move vertically through one of a gas-spring lift system or an electric lift system, said lift assembly being independent of any rotational movement of said non-rotating spindle;
a rotational coupling disposed at an upper end of said non-rotating spindle and configured to mechanically couple at least one modular top to said non-rotating spindle such that said modular top can rotate about said non-rotating spindle independently of a rotation or lack thereof of said non-rotating spindle, and can be locked in a plurality of angular positions; and
a locking system configured to secure said modular top at a selected height and a rotational position;
wherein said adjustable, non-rotating axle device is adapted to be mounted to another piece of furniture to provide customizable ergonomic and transformable workspace configurations.
2 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 1 , wherein said gas-spring lift system comprises a dual-chamber gas pressure balance mechanism configured to provide a smooth, a stable, and a wobble-free vertical adjustment.
3 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 1 , wherein said lift assembly comprises an electric linear actuator configured for powered vertical movement of said modular top.
4 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 3 , wherein said electric actuator includes a digital control interface having a memory function enabling a user to store and recall pre-set height positions.
5 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 1 , wherein said rotational coupling includes a damping mechanism configured to reduce vibrations and provide smooth rotational movement of said modular top.
6 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 1 , wherein said rotational coupling includes a multi-position detent or a friction lock for securing at least one of said modular tops in one of said plurality of angular positions.
7 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 1 , further comprising a safety stop mechanism configured to prevent said modular top from descending below a predetermined minimum height.
8 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 1 , wherein said lift assembly includes a fixed lower limit preventing downward travel of said modular top below a user-safe height.
9 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 1 , wherein said rotational coupling is configured to support a plurality of modular tops, each capable of rotating independently of one another about said non-rotating spindle.
10 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 1 , wherein said rotational coupling comprises a removable or interchangeable mounting interface allowing for substitution of different modular tops.
11 . The adjustable, non-rotating axle device of claim 1 , wherein said non-rotating spindle and said rotational coupling are provided as a modular subassembly configured for said modular tops to rotate independently from each other and to be incorporated into either an existing or newly designed desk, workstation, or other furniture structure.