METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR USING AN ADJUSTABLE DESK

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure is directed to adjustable desks and tables. More particularly, the disclosure is directed to an adjustable desk that operably engages an exercise machine. Specifically, the disclosure is directed to an adjustable desk that is configured to expand, elevate, and tilt while mounted to a treadmill machine.

BACKGROUND

In current office settings, workers are experiencing more sedentary lifestyles throughout their workdays while sitting at a desk for prolonged hours. Such sedentary lifestyles may lead to negative impacts on a worker's life such as increased pain and stress on the lower back (i.e., spinal disk degeneration), increased psychiatric distress such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, and/or low energy, and physical weight gain. To alleviate these issues, office settings are gradually introducing adjustable desks and tables for workers. These desks, which are frequently called “standing desks” allow a worker to stand periodically throughout the workday rather than only sitting at a desk. Standing desks help address at least part of the worker's sedentary lifestyle issues. While known adjustable desks and tables provide a worker with the capability of standing periodically throughout their workday, the worker typically will still remain stationary and in place while working.

SUMMARY

The present inventor has recognized that there is a problem with providing a conventional desk adjacent a cardiovascular machine. While workers and/or users of exercise machines may provide a conventional desktop or tabletop to an exercise machine (e.g., treadmills, elliptical machines, etc.), these methods and techniques are rather dangerous when using the piece of exercise equipment (e.g., the desk or table may disengage from the treadmill when walking or running on the treadmill causing harm and/or injury to the user when operating the treadmill). In addition, these methods and techniques of providing conventional desktop and/or tabletops to exercise equipment fail to provide a comfortable and ergonomic position for the user when the user is using the desk and/or table and the exercise machine simultaneously (e.g., desk/table is too short for the user, the desk/table is disposed at an uncomfortable angle, etc.).

In the prior art, it is proposed that a treadmill or stationary bicycle, in some instances, be moved into a position adjacent a conventional desk or adjacent a standing desk. In other instances, a desk unit is positioned next to a cardiovascular machine where the desk unit can be reached when a person is walking on a treadmill, for example, or while riding a stationary bicycle. In yet other instances, a desk may be integrated with a treadmill. The treadmill desk sold by NordicTrack®, for example, includes a desk that is engaged with a conventional treadmill. The treadmill is able to be pivoted between a generally horizontal exercise position where a worker is able to walk on it while working, and a generally vertical storage position where the worker can sit on a chair and still use the desk. The desk is able to be vertically raised and lowered, and is pivotable about a vertical axis to allow the treadmill to be moved between the exercise position and the storage position. While this treadmill desk is versatile, it is a relatively expensive piece of equipment.

In sum, the current options and conventional devices in the market fail to alleviate the issue of providing an adjustable desk on an exercise device in a safe, ergonomic, and cost-effective manner. With these issues, the present inventor has recognized that a desk provided on a cardiovascular equipment would be less dangerous and more ergonomic if the desk is sufficiently secured to the cardiovascular equipment and is selectively adjustable to provide an ergonomic position for the user.

In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a desk. The desk includes a first platform, a first mounting bracket, and a second mounting bracket. The first mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a first side thereof. The second mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a second side thereof. The first and second mounting brackets are adapted to engage the arms of a cardiovascular machine.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a desk. The desk includes a first platform, a first mounting bracket, and a second mounting bracket. The first mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a first side thereof. The second mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a second side thereof. The first and second mounting brackets are adapted to engage the arms of a cardiovascular machine. The first platform is selectively adjustable relative to the first and second mounting brackets.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a desk. The desk includes a first platform, a first mounting bracket, and a second mounting bracket. The first mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a first side thereof. The second mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a second side thereof. The first and second mounting brackets are adapted to engage the arms of a cardiovascular machine. The first platform is angularly adjustable relative to the first and second mounting brackets.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a desk. The desk includes a first platform, a first mounting bracket, and a second mounting bracket. The first mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a first side thereof. The second mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a second side thereof. The first and second mounting brackets are adapted to engage the arms of a cardiovascular machine. The first platform is vertically adjustable relative to the first and second mounting brackets.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a desk. The desk includes a first platform, a first mounting bracket, and a second mounting bracket. The first mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a first side thereof. The second mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a second side thereof. The first and second mounting brackets are adapted to engage the arms of a cardiovascular machine. The first and second brackets are laterally adjustable relative to the first platform.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a system. The system includes a cardiovascular machine and a desk. The desk includes a first platform, a first mounting bracket, and a second mounting bracket. The first mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a first side thereof. The second mounting bracket is operably engaged with the first platform and is positioned proximate a second side thereof, wherein the first and second mounting brackets are adapted to engage the arms of a cardiovascular machine. The first platform is selectively adjustable relative to the first and second mounting brackets.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method of exercising while working on a cardiovascular machine. The machine includes the steps of adjusting an expansion assembly from a collapsed position to an expanded position; engaging first and second mounting brackets to first and second arms on the cardiovascular machine; adjusting a mounting assembly from a disengaged position to an engaged position; adjusting a pivoting assembly from a leveled position to a tilted position; and adjusting a lifting assembly from a collapsed position to an elevated position.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an adjustable desk. The adjustable desk includes a bottom platform, a top platform, and a frame. The bottom platform defines a first substantially planar surface. The top platform is configured to be vertically elevated with respect to the bottom platform, the top platform defines a second substantially planar surface that is parallel to the first substantially planar surface. The frame operably engages the bottom platform and the top platform, wherein the frame is configured to vertically elevate the top platform with respect to the bottom platform, wherein the frame is configured to collectively rotate the top and bottoms platforms, and wherein the frame is configured to operably engage a treadmill.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an adjustable desk. The adjustable desk includes a bottom platform, a top platform, and a frame. The bottom platform defines a first end, a second opposing end, a first top substantially planar surface that is disposed between the first and second ends, and a first bottom substantially planar surface disposed between the first and second ends. The top platform is configured to be vertically elevated with respect to the bottom platform. The top platform defines a first end, a second opposing end, and a second top substantially planar surface disposed between the first and second ends and is parallel to the first substantially planar surface. The frame includes an expansion assembly, a pivot assembly, a mounting assembly, and a lifting assembly. The expansion assembly is configured to expand the width of the adjustable desk the expansion assembly operably engages the first bottom substantially planar surface. The lifting assembly operably engages each of the top and bottom platforms, the lifting assembly is configured to vertically elevate the top platform with respect to the bottom platform. The pivot assembly operably engaging the expansion assembly to collectively rotate the top and bottom platforms. The mounting assembly provided on the pivot assembly to operably engage the adjustable desk to a treadmill.

In another aspect, and exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide an adjustable desk. The adjustable desk includes a bottom platform, a top platform, and a frame. The bottom platform defines a first end, a second opposing end, a first top substantially planar surface disposed between the first and second ends. The top platform is configured to be vertically elevated with respect to the bottom platform. The top platform defines a first end, a second opposing end, and a second top substantially planar surface disposed between the first and second ends and is parallel to the first substantially planar surface. The frame includes an expansion assembly, a pivot assembly, a mounting assembly, and a lifting assembly. The expansion assembly has a first support plate, a second support plate, a first expansion member, and a second expansion member. The first support plate is provided on the bottom platform and extends from the first end of the bottom platform to a location between the first and seconds end of the bottom platform. The second support plate is provided on the bottom platform and extends from the second end of the bottom platform to a location between the first and seconds end of the bottom platform. The first expansion member operably engages the first support plate provided on the bottom platform. The second expansion member operably engages the second support plate provided on the bottom platform. The pivot assembly includes a first pivot leg and a second pivot leg, the first pivot leg has a first top end operably engaged to the first expansion member and a first bottom end, the second pivot leg has a second top end operably engaged to the second expansion member and a second bottom end, the first and second pivot legs collectively rotate the top and bottom platforms at the first and second top ends of the first and second pivot legs. The mounting assembly has a first mounting member and a second mounting member. The first mounting member operably engages the first bottom end of the first pivot leg. The second mounting member operably engages the second bottom end of the second pivot leg. The first and second mounting members operably engage the adjustable desk to a treadmill. The lifting assembly operably engages each of the top and bottom platforms, the lifting assembly has first, second, third, and fourth lifting arms, a nut assembly, and a user-operable lead screw having a front end and a rear end. The first and second lifting arms operably engages the first end of the top platform and the first end of the bottom platform. The third and fourth lifting arms operably engages the second end of the top platform and the second end of the bottom platform. The nut assembly operably engages the second and fourth lifting arms. The lead screw operably engages the nut assembly to vertically elevate the top platform with respect to the bottom platform by collectively moving the second lifting arm, fourth lifting arm, and nut assembly from the front end of the lead screw towards the back end of the lead screw.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a desk. The desk includes a frame. The desk also includes a bottom platform operably engaged with the frame and defining a first substantially planar wall. The desk also includes a top platform operably engaged with the frame and defining a second substantially planer wall; wherein the top platform is provided at a first height above the bottom platform measured between the first substantially planar wall and the second substantially planar wall. The frame is adapted to engage with a support structure, and the frame is configured to selectively adjust one or both of the top platform and the bottom platform relative to the frame.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include an outer surface defined along the first substantially planar wall and an inner surface defined along the first substantially planar wall opposite to the outer surface; and an expansion assembly operably engaged with the inner surface of the first substantially planar wall of the bottom platform, wherein the expansion assembly is adapted to expand a width of the frame to match a width of the support structure. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the expansion assembly comprises at least one support plate operably engaged with the inner surface of the first substantially planar wall; at least one support channel operably engaged with the at least one support plate; and at least one adjustment member operably engaged with the at least one support channel; wherein the at least one adjustment member is configured to slideably move towards and away from the at least one support plate and the at least one support channel to change the width of the fence. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the expansion assembly further comprises: at least one release knob operably engaged with the at least one support channel and the at least one adjustment member; wherein the at least one adjustment member is slidably moveable relative to the at least one release knob when the at least one release knob is provided in a loosened position with the at least one support channel; and wherein the at least one adjustment member is fixed relative to the at least one release knob when the at least one release knob is provided in a tightened position with the at least one support channel. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a first width measured between the at least one adjustment member and the at least one release knob when the at least one adjustment is provided in a first position; and a second width measured between the at least one adjustment member and the at least one release knob when the at least one adjustment is provided in a second position; wherein the second width is greater than the first width. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the expansion assembly further comprises: a second support plate operably engaged with the inner surface of the first substantially planar wall; a second support channel operably engaged with the second support plate; a second adjustment member operably engaged with the second support channel; and a second release knob operably engaged with the second support channel and the second adjustment member; wherein the second adjustment member is configured to slideably move towards and away from the second support plate and the support channel to change the width of the fence. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the frame further comprises: a pivot assembly operably engaged with the expansion assembly and the bottom platform; wherein the pivot assembly is configured to collectively angularly adjust the bottom platform and the top platform relative to the support structure. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the pivot assembly comprises: at least one pivot bracket operably engaged with the at least one adjustment member of the expansion assembly; and at least one pivot release knob operably engaging the at least one pivot bracket and the at least one adjustment member with one another; wherein the at least one adjustment member is selectively angularly adjustable relative to the at least one pivot bracket when the at least one pivot release knob is provided in a loosened position with the at least one pivot bracket. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the pivot assembly further comprises: a second pivot bracket operably engaged with a second adjustment member of the expansion assembly; and a second pivot release knob operably engaging the second pivot bracket and the second adjustment member with one another; wherein the second adjustment member is selectively angularly adjustable relative to the second pivot bracket when the at second pivot release knob is provided in a loosened position with the second pivot bracket. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the first pivot bracket and the second pivot brackets are laterally adjustable relative to the bottom platform and top platform via the expansion assembly. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the frame further comprises: a mounting assembly operably engaged with the pivot assembly; wherein the mounting assembly is adapted to operably engaged the bottom surface and the top surface with at least one arm of the support structure. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the mounting assembly further comprises: at least one clamp operably engaged with the at least one pivot bracket of the pivoting assembly; wherein the at least one clamp is adapted to operably engaged with the at least one arm of the cardiovascular machine in a first position when the at least one clamp is positioned below the bottom platform; and wherein the at least one clamp is adapted to operably engaged with the at least one arm of the cardiovascular machine in a second position when the at least one clamp is positioned above the bottom platform. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that wherein one or both of the top platform and bottom platform are disposed above the at least one arm of the cardiovascular machine when the at least one clamp is positioned in the first position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that wherein one or both of the top platform and bottom platform are disposed below the at least one arm of the cardiovascular machine when the at least one clamp is positioned in the second position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the frame further comprises: a lifting assembly operably engaged with the top platform, the bottom platform, and the pivot assembly; wherein the lifting assembly is configured to vertically adjust the top platform to a second height greater than the first height relative to the bottom platform. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the lifting assembly further comprises: a lead screw provided with the bottom platform; a lead nut threadably engaged with the lead screw; at least one support tube operably engaged with the lead nut; at least one pair of arms operably engaged with the at least one support tube and the top platform.

In yet another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method of exercising while working on a support structure. The method comprises steps of introducing an adjustable desk to at least one arm of the support structure, the desk comprises: a frame; a bottom platform operably engaged with the frame and defining a first substantially planar wall; and a top platform operably engaged with the frame and defining a second substantially planer wall, wherein the top platform is provided at a first height above the bottom platform measured between the first substantially planar wall and the second substantially planar wall; adjusting at least one pivot bracket of a pivoting assembly of the frame between a first position and a second position; engaging the at least one pivot bracket of the pivoting assembly of the frame with the at least one arm of the support structure; and engaging at least one clamp of a mounting assembly of the frame with the at least one arm of the support structure.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the step of engaging at least one clamp of a mounting assembly of the desk with the at least one arm of the support structure further includes that the at least one clamp is positioned below the bottom platform. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the step of engaging at least one clamp of a mounting assembly of the desk with the at least one arm of the support structure further includes that the at least one clamp is positioned above the bottom platform. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a step of moving the top platform, via a lifting assembly of the frame, to a second height greater than the first height relative to the bottom platform. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a step of pivoting the top platform and the bottom platform, via a pivot assembly of the frame, between a leveled position and a tilted position relative to the at least one pivot bracket. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a step of adjusting a width of the frame, via an expansion assembly of frame, between a collapsed position to an expanded position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Sample embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the following description, are shown in the drawings and are particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

FIG. 1 (FIG. 1) is a top perspective view of an adjustable desk in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure shown engaged on an exemplary piece of exercise equipment.

FIG. 2 (FIG. 2) is a top perspective view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 1 shown in isolation.

FIG. 3 (FIG. 3) is a top plan view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 (FIG. 4) is a bottom plan view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 (FIG. 5) is a front elevation view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 (FIG. 6) is a rear elevation view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 7 (FIG.) is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable desk taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 (FIG. 8) is a left side elevation view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 9 (FIG. 9) is a right side elevation view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 10 (FIG. 10) is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable desk taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 (FIG. 11) is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable desk taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 (FIG. 12) is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable desk taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 13 (FIG. 13) is an exploded top perspective view of the bottom platform of the adjustable desk.

FIG. 14A (FIG. 14A) is a partial exploded view of the first pivot plate and the bottom platform of the adjustable desk.

FIG. 14B (FIG. 14B) is a partial exploded view of the second pivot plate and the bottom platform of the adjustable desk.

FIG. 15 (FIG. 15) is a top perspective view of the adjustable desk shown with the lifting assembly in an elevated position.

FIG. 16 (FIG. 16) is a front elevation view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 (FIG. 17) is a bottom perspective view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 (FIG. 18) is a top perspective view of the adjustable desk showing first pivot plate and second pivot plate of the expansion assembly moved to an expanded position.

FIG. 19 (FIG. 19) is a front elevation view of the adjustable desk as illustrated in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 (FIG. 20) is a top perspective view of the adjustable desk showing a pivoting assembly moved into a tilted position.

FIG. 21 (FIG. 21) is a left side elevation view of the adjustable desk illustrated in FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 (FIG. 22) is a top perspective view of the adjustable desk showing the mounting assembly moved to an alternative mounting position.

FIG. 23 (FIG. 23) is a front elevation view of the adjustable desk as illustrated in FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 (FIG. 24) is a right side elevation view of the adjustable desk provided on exemplary piece of exercise equipment as illustrated in FIG. 1. The mounting assembly of the adjustable desk is provided in the engaged position, the pivoting assembly is provided in a level position, and the lifting assembly is provided in a collapsed position.

FIG. 25 (FIG. 25) is a top plan view of the adjustable desk engaged with the exemplary piece of exercise equipment as illustrated in FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 (FIG. 26) is a partial perspective view of the adjustable desk engaged with the exemplary piece of exercise equipment as illustrated in FIG. 24 with the lifting assembly moved to the elevated position.

FIG. 27 (FIG. 27) is a partial perspective view of the adjustable desk engaged with the exemplary piece of exercise equipment as illustrated in FIG. 24 and with the pivoting assembly moved to the tilted position.

FIG. 28 (FIG. 28) is a partial perspective view of the adjustable desk engaged with the exemplary piece of exercise equipment as illustrated in FIG. 24 and with the mounting assembly arranged in an alternative position.

FIG. 29 (FIG. 29) illustrates an exemplary method flowchart.

Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary support structure or exemplary piece of cardiovascular exercise equipment in the form of a treadmill 1. Treadmill 1 includes a base 2, a pair of uprights 3 that extends upwardly from the base 2, and first and second arms 4, 5 that extend laterally away from the pair of uprights 3. It will be understood that the illustrated treadmill 1 is exemplary only and any type of treadmill 1 is contemplated to be represented by the illustrated device. In addition, the treadmill 1 is provided with an adjustable desk 10 that is operably engaged to the first and second arms 4, 5 of the treadmill 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable desk 10 is removably provided on the first and second arms 4, 5 of the treadmill 1. While the adjustable desk 10 is provided on the treadmill as described and illustrated herein, an adjustable desk may be provided on other exemplary exercise and/or cardiovascular machines. Examples of exercise and/or cardiovascular machines considered suitable include a stair mill machine, spin bike machine, elliptical or similar machine, recumbent bike machine, and other exercise and/or cardiovascular machines considered suitable in which an adjustable desk may be provided.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-33, the adjustable desk 10 will now be described in greater detail. The adjustable desk 10 includes a frame 12 that operably connects to top and bottom platforms 100, 200. As best shown in FIG. 2, the adjustable desk 10 includes a top platform 100 and a bottom platform 200 disposed parallel to the top platform 100 provided on the adjustable desk 10. The top and bottom platforms 100, 200 operably engage the frame 12, which is described in more detail below. The frame 12 includes an expansion assembly 300 that operably engages to the bottom platform 200 to expand the overall width of the adjustable desk 10 such that the adjustable desk 10 may be provided on any available treadmill, such as treadmill 1, and/or exercise machine. The frame 12 also includes a pivot assembly 500 that operably engages to the expansion assembly 300 to rotate the first and second platforms 100, 200 when the adjustable desk 10 may be provided on any suitable treadmill, such treadmill 1, and/or exercise machine. The frame 12 also includes a mounting assembly 600 that operably engages to the pivot assembly 500 to allow the adjustable desk 10 to be operably engaged to first and second arms of a treadmill, such as the first and second arms 4, 5 of the treadmill 1, and/or exercise machine such that the adjustable desk 10 remains fixed during operation. The frame 12 also includes a lifting assembly 700 that operably engages to the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 to elevate the top platform 100 relative to the bottom platform 200 for accommodating different heights of users that use and operate the adjustable desk 10 while operating the treadmill 1. The associated parts and components of the expansion assembly 300, the pivot assembly 500, the mounting assembly 600, and the lifting assembly 700 are described in more detail below.

As illustrated on FIG. 2, the adjustable desk 10 has a front end 10A, a rear end 10B that opposes the front end 10A, a left side 10C, a right side 10D that opposes the left side 10C, a top end 10E, and a bottom end 10F that opposes the top end 10E. The adjustable desk 10 also defines a lengthwise axis “X” that extends from the top end 10E to the bottom end 10F. The adjustable desk 10 also defines a widthwise axis “Y” that extends from left side 10C to the right side 10D. In the illustrated embodiment, the lengthwise axis “X” is orthogonal to the widthwise axis “Y.” It should be understood that the directions of “front,” “rear,” “top,” “bottom,” “right,” and “left” are only used as a directional reference for the adjustable desk 10 and its associated components and/or parts described herein and illustrated in FIGS. 1-33.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the top platform 100 is disposed parallel to the bottom platform 200 in the adjustable desk 10. The top platform 100 includes a front end 100A disposed near the front end 10A of the adjustable desk 10, a rear end 100B disposed near the rear end 10B of the adjustable desk 10, a left side 100C disposed near the left side 10C of the adjustable desk 10, and a right side 100D disposed near the right side 10D of the adjustable desk 10.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the top platform 100 includes a wall 120. The wall 120 has a central portion 122 that extends from the front end 100A to the rear end 100B. The wall 120 also has a frontal portion 124 that extends downwardly from the central portion 122 of the wall 120 at the front end 100A of the top platform 100. The frontal portion 124 is continuous with the central portion 122 such the frontal portion 124 is integral with the central portion 122 defined at a first bend 125 formed in the wall 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the frontal portion 124 is bent relative to the central portion 122 such that the frontal portion 124 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 122. The wall 120 also has a rear portion 126 that extends downwardly from the central portion 122 of the wall 120 at the rear end 100B of the top platform 100. The rear portion 126 is continuous with the central portion 122 such that the rear portion 126 is integral with the central portion 122 defined at a second bend 127 formed in the wall 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 126 is bent relative to the central portion 122 such that the rear portion 126 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 122. The rear portion 126 of the wall 120 is parallel with the frontal portion 124 of the wall 120, and the frontal and rear portions 124, 126 of the wall 120 oppose one another on the top platform 100.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the wall 120 also has a left portion 128 that extends laterally from the rear portion 126 of the wall 120 at the left side 100C of the top platform 100. The left portion 128 is continuous with the rear portion 126 such that the left portion 128 is integral with the rear portion 126 defined at a third bend 129 formed in the wall 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the left portion 128 is bent relative to the rear portion 126 such that the left portion 128 is disposed orthogonal to the rear portion 126. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the wall 120 has a right portion 130 that extends laterally from the rear portion 126 of the wall 120 at the right side 100D of the top platform 100. The right portion 130 is continuous with the rear portion 126 such that the right portion 130 is integral with the rear portion 126 defined at a fourth bend 131 formed in the wall 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the right portion 130 is bent relative to the rear portion 126 such that the right portion 130 is disposed orthogonal to the rear portion 126. The right portion 130 of the wall 120 is parallel with the left portion 128 of the wall 120, and the left and right portions 128, 130 of the wall 120 oppose one another on the top platform 100. In addition, the wall 120 defines a first opening 132 that is disposed on the left portion 128 of the wall 120 in which the first opening 132 extends entirely through the left portion 128. The wall 120 also defines a second opening 134 that is disposed on the right portion 130 of the wall 120 in which the second opening 134 extends entirely through the right portion 130. In the illustrated embodiment, the first opening 132 is coaxial to the second opening 134 on the top platform 100.

The wall 120 defines an outer surface 136 and an inner surface 138. Each of the outer and inner surfaces 136, 138 along the central portion 122 is substantially planar and is parallel to one another. The outer surface 136 along the central portion 122 being substantially planar allows a user of the adjustable desk 10 to place certain objects and items on the top platform 100 with said objects or items remaining stationary during operation of the treadmill 1. The inner surface 138 along the central portion 122 being substantially planar allows the lifting assembly 700 to vertically elevate the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200, which is described in more detail below.

In addition, the top platform 100 includes a first stopper 140 that is provided on the central portion 122 of the wall 120 and is disposed closer to the front end 100A of the top platform 100. The first stopper 140 prevents objects and/or items placed on the outer surface 136 of the wall 120 from sliding off of the top platform 100 when the top platform 100 is rotated via the pivoting assembly 500, which is described in more detail below. The first stopper 140 also provides an ergonomic feature such that the first stopper 140 allows a user to rest his/her wrists on the first stopper 140 when the user is using the adjustable desk 10 (e.g., the user resting his/her wrist on the first stopper 140 when the user is using a personal computer or keyboard on the top platform 100). While the first stopper 140 is provided on the central portion 122 of the wall 120, a first stopper may be provided in any suitable way on a central portion of a wall. Examples of providing a first stopper on a central portion of a wall include attaching, securing, connecting, affixing, adhering, mounting, and other suitable examples of providing a first stopper on a central portion of a wall.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the top platform 100 includes a plurality of apertures 142 disposed along the central portion 122 of the wall 120. The plurality of apertures 142 extends entirely through the top platform 100 from the outer surface 136 to the inner surface 138. The plurality of apertures 142 is considered advantageous at least because the plurality of apertures 142 provides a vent to help dissipate heat from a laptop computer or similar electronic device that is placed on the top platform 100.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the bottom platform 200 is disposed parallel to the top platform 100 in the adjustable desk 10. The bottom platform 200 includes a front end 200A disposed near the front end 10A of the adjustable desk 10, a rear end 200B disposed near the rear end 10B of the adjustable desk 10, a left side 200C disposed near the left side 10C of the adjustable desk 10, and a right side 200D disposed near the right side 10D of the adjustable desk 10. The front end 200A of the bottom platform 200 is aligned with the front end 100A of the top platform 100, the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200 is aligned with the rear end 100B of the top platform 100, the left side 200C of the bottom platform 200 is aligned with the left side 100C of the top platform 100, and the right side 200D of the bottom platform 200 is aligned with the right side 100D of the top platform 100.

The bottom platform 200 includes a wall 220. The wall 220 has a central portion 222 that extends from the front end 200A to the rear end 200B. The wall 220 also has a frontal portion 224 that extends downwardly from the central portion 222 of the wall 220 at the front end 200A of the bottom platform 200. The frontal portion 224 is continuous with the central portion 222 such the frontal portion 224 is integral with the central portion 222 defined at a first bend 225 formed in the wall 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the frontal portion 224 is bent relative to the central portion 222 such that the frontal portion 224 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 222. The wall 220 also has a rear portion 226 that extends downwardly from the central portion 222 of the wall 220 at the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200. The rear portion 226 is continuous with the central portion 222 such that the rear portion 226 is integral with the central portion 222 defined at a second bend 227 formed in the wall 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 226 is bent relative to the central portion 222 such that the rear portion 226 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 222. The rear portion 226 of the wall 220 is parallel with the frontal portion 224 of the wall 220, and the frontal and rear portions 224, 226 of the wall 220 oppose one another on the bottom platform 200.

The wall 220 also has a left portion 228 that extends laterally from the rear portion 226 of the wall 220 at the left side 200C of the bottom platform 200. The left portion 228 is continuous with the rear portion 226 such that the left portion 228 is integral with the rear portion 226 defined at a third bend 229 formed in the wall 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the left portion 228 is bent relative to the rear portion 226 such that the left portion 228 is disposed orthogonal to the rear portion 226. Similarly, the wall 220 has a right portion 230 that extends laterally from the rear portion 226 of the wall 220 at the right side 200D of the bottom platform 200. The right portion 230 is continuous with the rear portion 226 such that the right portion 230 is integral with the rear portion 226 defined at a fourth bend 231 formed in the wall 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the right portion 230 is bent relative to the rear portion 226 such that the right portion 230 is disposed orthogonal to the rear portion 226. The right portion 230 of the wall 220 is parallel with the left portion 228 of the wall 220, and the left and right portions 228, 230 of the wall 220 oppose one another on the bottom platform 200. In addition, the wall 220 defines a first opening 232 that is disposed on the left portion 228 of the wall 220 in which the first opening 232 extends entirely through the left portion 228. Similarly, the wall 220 defines a second opening 234 that is disposed on the right portion 230 of the wall 220 in which the second opening 234 extends entirely through the right portion 230. In the illustrated embodiment, the first opening 232 is coaxial to the second opening 234 on the bottom platform 200.

The wall 220 defines an outer surface 236 and an inner surface 238. Each of the outer and inner surfaces 236, 238 along the central portion 222 is substantially planar and is parallel to one another. The outer surface 236 being substantially planar allows a user of the adjustable desk 10 to place certain objects and items on the bottom platform 200 with said objects or items remaining stationary during operation of the treadmill 1. The inner surface 238 being substantially planar allows for the expansion assembly 300 to operably engage the bottom platform 200, which is described in more detail below.

In addition, the bottom platform 200 includes a second stopper 240 that is provided on the central portion 222 of the wall 220 disposed closer to the front end 200A of the bottom platform 200. The second stopper 240 prevents objects and/or items placed on the outer surface 236 of the wall 220 from sliding off of the bottom platform 200 when the bottom platform 200 is rotated via the pivoting assembly 500, which is described in more detail below. The second stopper 240 also provides an ergonomic feature such that the second stopper 240 allows a user to rest his/her wrists on the second stopper 240 when the user is using the adjustable desk 10 (e.g., the user resting his/her wrist on the second stopper 240 when the user is using a personal computer or keyboard on the bottom platform 100). While the second stopper 240 is provided on the central portion 222 of the wall 220, a second stopper may be provided in any suitable way on a central portion of a wall. Examples of providing a second stopper on a central portion of a wall include attaching, securing, connecting, affixing, adhering, mounting, and other suitable examples of providing a second stopper on a central portion of a wall.

The expansion assembly 300 includes at least one support plate, at least one support channel, at least one adjustment member, and at least one release knob. As illustrated in FIGS. 7, 13, 14A, 14B, the expansion assembly 300 includes a first support plate 302, a second support plate 304, a first support channel 306, a second support channel 308, a first adjustment member 310, a second adjustment member 312, a first release knob 314, and a second release knob 316. In the illustrated embodiment, the first support plate 302 and the second support plate 304 are provided on the inner surface 238 of the central portion 222 of the bottom platform 200. The first support channel 306 operably engages the first support plate 302, and the second support channel 308 operably engages the second support plate 304. The first adjustment member 310 operably engages the first support channel 306, and the second adjustment member 312 operably engages the second support channel 308. The first release knob 314 operably engages the first support channel 306 and the first adjustment member 310. The second release knob 316 operably engages the second support channel 308 and the second adjustment member 312.

The first support plate 302 includes a front end 302A, a rear end 302B disposed opposite to the front end 302A, a left side 302C, and a right side 302D disposed opposite to the left side 302C. The first support plate 302 includes a wall 320. The wall 320 has a central portion 322 that extends from the front end 302A to the rear end 302B. The wall 320 also has a frontal portion 324 that extends upwardly from the central portion 322 of the wall 320 at the front end 302A of the first support plate 302. The frontal portion 324 is continuous with the central portion 322 such the frontal portion 324 is integral with the central portion 322 defined at a first bend 325 formed in the wall 320. In the illustrated embodiment, the frontal portion 324 is bent relative to the central portion 322 such that the frontal portion 324 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 322. The wall 320 also has a rear portion 326 that extends upwardly from the central portion 322 of the wall 320 at the rear end 302B of the first support plate 302. The rear portion 326 is continuous with the central portion 322 such that the rear portion 326 is integral with the central portion 322 defined at a second bend 327 formed in the wall 320. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 326 is bent relative to the central portion 322 such that the rear portion 326 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 322. The rear portion 326 of the wall 320 is parallel with the frontal portion 324 of the wall 320, and the frontal and rear portions 324, 326 of the wall 320 oppose one another on the first support plate 302.

The wall 320 also has a first tab 328 that extends upwardly from the central portion 322 of the wall 320 between the front end 302A and the rear end 302B of the first support plate 302. The first tab 328 is continuous with the central portion 322 such that the first tab 328 is integral with the central portion 322 defined at a third bend 329 formed in the wall 320 between the front end 302A and the rear end 302B of the first support plate 302 closer to the rear end 302B of the first support plate 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the first tab 328 is cut from the central portion 322 of the wall 320 and is bent relative to the central portion 322 such that the first tab 328 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 322. Similarly, the wall 320 has a second tab 330 that extends upwardly from the central portion 322 of the wall 320 between the front end 302A and the rear end 302B of the first support plate 302. The second tab 330 is continuous with the central portion 322 such that the second tab 330 is integral with the central portion 322 defined at a fourth bend 331 formed in the wall 320 between the front end 302A and the rear end 302B of the first support plate 302 closer to the front end 302A of the first support plate 302. The second tab 330 is also disposed at the left side 302C of the first support plate 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the second tab 330 is cut from the central portion 322 of the wall 320 and is bent relative to the central portion 322 such that the second tab 330 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 322.

In addition, the first support plate 302 includes an outer surface 332 and an inner surface 333 along the central portion 322 of the wall 320. The first support plate 302 defines a first slot 334, a second slot 335, a third slot 336, and a fourth slot 337. The first slot 334, the second slot 335, the third slot 336, and the fourth slot 337 are disposed on the central portion 322 of the wall 320 between the first tab 328 and the second tab 330. The first slot 334 and the second slot 335 are aligned with one another and are disposed closer to the second tab 330 where the first slot 334 is disposed closer to the left side 302C of the first support plate 302 and the second slot 335 is disposed closer to the right side 302D of the first support plate 302. The third slot 336 and the fourth slot 337 are aligned with one another and are disposed closer to the first tab 350 where the third slot 336 is disposed closer to the left side 302C of the first support plate 302 and the fourth slot 337 is disposed closer to the right side 302D of the first support plate 302. In addition, each of the first slot 334, the second slot 335, the third slot 336, and the fourth slot 337 extends entirely through the central portion 322 such that each of the first slot 334, the second slot 335, the third slot 336, and the fourth slot 337 extends from the outer surface 332 to the inner surface 333.

The first support plate 302 is provided on the inner surface 238 of the central portion 222 of the bottom platform 200 once the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. Top edges 338, 339 of the front and rear portions 324, 326 operably engage the inner surface 238 of the central portion 222. In addition, the front and rear portions 324, 326 of the first support plate 302 operably engage the front and rear portions 224, 226 of the bottom platform 200 such that the front portion 324 of the first support plate 302 operably engages the front portion 224 of the bottom platform 200, and the rear portion 326 of the first support plate 302 operably engages the rear portion 226 of the bottom platform 200. The front and rear portions 324, 326 of the first support plate 302 provide attachment points for the first support plate 302 in which the first support plate 302 may operably engage the bottom platform 200. In this illustrated embodiment, the first support plate 302 is welded to the bottom platform 200 in which the top edges 338, 339 of the front and rear portions 324, 326 are welded to the bottom platform 200. The front and rear portions 324, 326 of the first support plate 302 may operably engage the bottom platform 200 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging front and rear portions of a first support plate with a bottom platform include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, and other suitable ways of operably engaging front and rear portions of a first support plate with a bottom platform.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, the second support plate 304 includes a front end 304A, a rear end 304B opposite to the front end 304A, a left side 304C, and a right side 304D opposite to the left side 304C. Once the first support plate 302 and the second support plate 304 are provided on the bottom platform 200, the front and rear ends 302A, 302B of the first support plate 302 and the front and rear ends 304A, 304B of the second support plate 304 are aligned with one another. The right side 302D of the first support plate 302 is disposed adjacent to the left side 304C of the second support plate 304 in which the right side 302D of the first support plate 302 and the left side 304C of the second support plate 304 face one another. The left side 302C of the first support plate 302 opposes the right side 304D of the second support plate 304 in which the left side 302C of the first support plate 302 and the right side 304D of the second support plate 304 face opposite directions.

The second support plate 304 includes a wall 340. The wall 340 has a central portion 342 that extends from the front end 304A to the rear end 304B. The wall 340 also has a frontal portion 344 that extends upwardly from the central portion 342 of the wall 340 at the front end 304A of the second support plate 304. The frontal portion 344 is continuous with the central portion 342 such the frontal portion 344 is integral with the central portion 342 defined at a first bend 345 formed in the wall 340. In the illustrated embodiment, the frontal portion 344 is bent relative to the central portion 342 such that the frontal portion 344 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 342. The wall 340 also has a rear portion 346 that extends upwardly from the central portion 342 of the wall 340 at the rear end 304B of the second support plate 304. The rear portion 346 is continuous with the central portion 342 such that the rear portion 346 is integral with the central portion 342 defined at a second bend 347 formed in the wall 340. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 346 is bent relative to the central portion 342 such that the rear portion 346 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 342. The rear portion 346 of the wall 340 is parallel with the frontal portion 344 of the wall 340, and the frontal and rear portions 344, 346 of the wall 340 oppose one another on the second support plate 304.

The wall 340 also has a first tab 348 that extends upwardly from the central portion 342 of the wall 340 between the front end 304A and the rear end 304B of the second support plate 304. The first tab 348 is continuous with the central portion 342 such that the first tab 348 is integral with the central portion 342 defined at a third bend 349 formed in the wall 340 between the front end 304A and the rear end 304B of the second support plate 304 closer to the rear end 304B of the second support plate 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the first tab 348 is cut from the central portion 342 of the wall 340 and is bent relative to the central portion 342 such that the first tab 348 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 342. Similarly, the wall 340 has a second tab 350 that extends upwardly from the central portion 342 of the wall 340 between the front end 304A and the rear end 304B of the second support plate 304. The second tab 350 is continuous with the central portion 342 such that the second tab 350 is integral with the central portion 342 defined at a fourth bend 351 formed in the wall 340 between the front end 304A and the rear end 304B of the second support plate 304 closer to the front end 304A of the second support plate 304. The second tab 350 is also disposed at the right side 304D of the second support plate 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the second tab 350 is cut from the central portion 342 of the wall 340 and is bent relative to the central portion 342 such that the second tab 350 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 342.

In addition, the second support plate 304 includes an outer surface 352 and an inner surface 353 along the central portion 342 of the wall 340. The second support plate 304 defines a first slot 354, a second slot 355, a third slot 356, and a fourth slot 357. The first slot 354, the second slot 355, the third slot 356, and the fourth slot 357 are disposed on the central portion 342 of the wall 340 between the first tab 348 and the second tab 350. The first slot 354 and the second slot 355 are aligned with one another and are disposed closer to the second tab 350 in which the first slot 354 is disposed closer to the left side 304C of the second support plate 304 and the second slot 355 is disposed closer to the right side 304D of the second support plate 304. The third slot 356 and the fourth slot 357 are aligned with one another and are disposed closer to the first tab 348 in which the third slot 356 is disposed closer to the left side 304C of the second support plate 304 and the fourth slot 357 is disposed closer to the right side 304D of the second support plate 304. In addition, each of the first slot 354, the second slot 355, the third slot 356, and the fourth slot 357 extends entirely through the central portion 342 such that each of the first slot 354, the second slot 355, the third slot 356, and the fourth slot 357 extends from the outer surface 352 to the inner surface 353.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second support plate 304 is provided on the inner surface 238 of the central portion 222 of the bottom platform 200. The top edges 358, 359 of the front and rear portions 344, 346 operably engage the inner surface 238 of the central portion 222. In addition, the front and rear portions 344, 346 of the second support plate 304 operably engage the front and rear portions 224, 226 of the bottom platform 200 such that the front portion 344 of the second support plate 304 operably engages the front portion 224 of the bottom platform 200, and the rear portion 346 of the second support plate 304 operably engages the rear portion 226 of the bottom platform 200. The front and rear portions 344, 346 of the second support plate 304 provide attachment points for the second support plate 304 in which the second support plate 304 may operably engage the bottom platform 200. The front and rear portions 344, 346 of the second support plate 304 may operably engage the bottom platform 200 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging front and rear portions of a second support plate with a bottom platform include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging front and rear portions of a second support plate with a bottom platform. In this illustrated embodiment, the second support plate 304 is welded to the bottom platform 200 in which the front and rear portions 344, 346 are welded to the bottom platform 200.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, the first support channel 306 includes a front end 306A, a rear end 306B opposite to the front end 306A, a left side 306C, and a right side 306D opposite to the left side 306C. The first support channel 306 includes a wall 360. The wall 360 has a central portion 362 that extends from the left side 306C to the right side 306D of the first support channel 306. The wall 360 also has a frontal portion 364 that extends upwardly from the central portion 362 of the wall 360 at the front end 306A of the first support channel 306. The frontal portion 364 is continuous with the central portion 362 such the frontal portion 364 is integral with the central portion 362 defined at a first bend 365 formed in the wall 360. In the illustrated embodiment, the frontal portion 364 is bent relative to the central portion 362 such that the frontal portion 364 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 362. The wall 360 also has a rear portion 366 that extends upwardly from the central portion 362 of the wall 360 at the rear end 306B of the first support channel 306. The rear portion 366 is continuous with the central portion 362 such that the rear portion 366 is integral with the central portion 362 defined at a second bend 367 formed in the wall 360. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 366 is bent relative to the central portion 362 such that the rear portion 366 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 362. The rear portion 366 of the wall 360 is parallel with the frontal portion 364 of the wall 360, and the frontal and rear portions 364, 366 of the wall 360 oppose one another on the first support channel 306.

The first support channel 306 also includes a first extension 368, a second extension 369, a third extension 370, and a fourth extension 371. The first extension 368 is disposed on the frontal portion 364 of the wall 360 between the left and right sides 306C, 306D and is closer to the left side 306C. The first extension 368 also extends upwardly from the frontal portion 364 and away from the central portion 362. The second extension 369 is disposed on the frontal portion 364 of the wall 360 between the left and right sides 306C, 306D and is closer to the right side 306D. The second extension 369 also extends upwardly from the frontal portion 364 and away from the central portion 362. The first extension 368 and the second extension 369 are aligned parallel to one another on the frontal portion 364 of the wall 360 and oppose one another on the frontal portion 364 of the wall 360. The third extension 370 is disposed on the rear portion 366 of the wall 360 between the left and right sides 306C, 306D and is closer to the left side 306C. The third extension 370 also extends upwardly from the rear portion 366 and away from the central portion 362. The fourth extension 371 is disposed on the rear portion 366 of the wall 360 between the left and right sides 306C, 306D and is closer to the right side 306D. The fourth extension 371 also extends upwardly from the rear portion 366 and away from the central portion 362. The third extension 370 and the fourth extension 371 are aligned parallel to one another on the rear portion 366 of the wall 360 and directly oppose one another on the rear portion 366 of the wall 366.

The first extension 368, the second extension 369, the third extension 370, and the fourth extension 371 are sized and configured to be received by the first slot 334, the second slot 335, the third slot 336, and the fourth slot 337 of the first support plate 302 once the first support channel 306 operably engages the first support plate 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the first extension 368 is received and housed inside of the first slot 334, the second extension 369 is received and housed inside of the second slot 335, the third extension 370 is received and housed inside of the third slot 336, and the fourth extension 371 is received and housed inside of the fourth slot 337. The first extension 368, the second extension 369, the third extension 370, and the fourth extension 371 of the first support channel 306 provide attachment points for the first support channel 306 in which the first support channel 306 may operably engage the first support plate 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the first support channel 306 is welded to the first support plate 302 in which the first extension 368, the second extension 369, the third extension 370, and the fourth extension 371 are welded to the first support plate 302 inside of the first slot 334, the second slot 335, the third slot 336, and the fourth slot 337. The first extension 368, the second extension 369, the third extension 370, and the fourth extension 371 of the first support channel 306 may operably engage the first support plate 302 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging first, second, third, and fourth extensions of a first support channel with a first support plate include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, and other suitable ways of operably engaging first, second, third, and fourth extensions of a first support channel with a first support plate.

The first support channel 306 also defines a first opening 372 and a second opening 373. The first opening 372 and the second opening 373 are positioned on the central portion 362 of the wall 360. The first opening 372 and the second opening 374 also extend entirely through the central portion 362 of the wall 360. The first opening 372 is sized and configured to receive a first nut 374 in which the first nut 374 is disposed within the first opening 372 and operably engages the central portion 362 of the wall 360. Similarly, the second opening 373 is sized and configured to receive a second nut 376 in which the second nut 376 is disposed within the second opening 373 and operably engages the central portion 362 of the wall 360. In this illustrated embodiment, the first and second nuts 374, 376 are press-fitted to the first support channel 306 inside of the first and second openings 372, 373. The first nut 374 and the second nut 376 may operably engage the first support channel 306 inside the first opening 372 and the second opening 373 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a first nut and a second nut with a first support channel inside a first opening and a second opening include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a first nut and a second nut with a first support channel inside a first opening and a second opening. In addition, the first and second nuts 374, 376 are sized and configured to operably engage the first release knob 314 once the first release knob 314 is introduced into either the first nut 374 or the second nut 376, which is described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, the second support channel 308 includes a front end 308A, a rear end 308B opposite to the front end 308A, a left side 308C, and a right side 308D opposite to the left side 308C. The second support channel 308 includes a wall 380. The wall 380 has a central portion 382 that extends from the left side 308C to the right side 308D of the second support channel 308. The wall 380 also has a frontal portion 384 that extends upwardly from the central portion 382 of the wall 380 at the front end 308A of the second support channel 308. The frontal portion 384 is continuous with the central portion 382 such the frontal portion 384 is integral with the central portion 382 defined at a first bend 385 formed in the wall 380. In the illustrated embodiment, the frontal portion 384 is bent relative to the central portion 382 such that the frontal portion 384 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 382. The wall 380 also has a rear portion 386 that extends upwardly from the central portion 382 of the wall 380 at the rear end 308B of the second support channel 308. The rear portion 386 is continuous with the central portion 382 such that the rear portion 386 is integral with the central portion 382 defined at a second bend 387 formed in the wall 380. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 386 is bent relative to the central portion 382 such that the rear portion 386 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 382. The rear portion 386 of the wall 380 is parallel with the frontal portion 384 of the wall 380, and the frontal and rear portions 384, 386 of the wall 380 oppose one another on the second support channel 308.

The second support channel 308 also includes a first extension 388, a second extension 389, a third extension 390, and a fourth extension 391. The first extension 388 is disposed on the frontal portion 384 of the wall 360 between the left and right sides 308C, 308D and is closer to the left side 308C. The first extension 388 also extends upwardly from the frontal portion 384 and away from the central portion 382. The second extension 389 is disposed on the frontal portion 384 of the wall 380 between the left and right sides 308C, 308D and is closer to the right side 308D. The second extension 389 also extends upwardly from the frontal portion 384 and away from the central portion 382. The first extension 388 and the second extension 389 are aligned parallel to one another on the frontal portion 384 of the wall 380 and oppose one another on the frontal portion 384 of the wall 380. The third extension 390 is disposed on the rear portion 386 of the wall 380 between the left and right sides 308C, 308D and is closer to the left side 308C. The third extension 390 also extends upwardly from the rear portion 386 and away from the central portion 382. The fourth extension 391 is disposed on the rear portion 386 of the wall 380 between the left and right sides 308C, 308D and is closer to the right side 308D. The fourth extension 391 also extends upwardly from the rear portion 386 and away from the central portion 382. The third extension 390 and the fourth extension 391 are aligned parallel to one another on the rear portion 386 of the wall 380 and directly oppose one another on the rear portion 386 of the wall 386.

The first extension 388, the second extension 389, the third extension 390, and the fourth extension 391 are sized and configured to be received by the first slot 354, the second slot 355, the third slot 356, and the fourth slot 357 once the second support channel 308 operably engages the second support plate 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the first extension 388 is received and housed inside of the first slot 354, the second extension 389 is received and housed inside of the second slot 355, the third extension 390 is received and housed inside of the third slot 356, and the fourth extension 391 is received and housed inside of the fourth slot 357. The first extension 388, the second extension 389, the third extension 390, and the fourth extension 391 of the second support channel 308 provide attachment points for the second support channel 308 in which the second support channel 308 may operably engage the second support plate 304. In this illustrated embodiment, the second support channel 308 is welded to the second support plate 304 in which the first extension 388, the second extension 389, the third extension 390, and the fourth extension 391 are welded to the second support plate 304 inside of the first slot 354, the second slot 355, the third slot 356, and the fourth slot 357. The first extension 388, the second extension 389, the third extension 390, and the fourth extension 391 of the second support channel 308 may operably engage the second support plate 304 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging first, second, third, and fourth tabs of a first support channel with a first support plate include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, and other suitable ways of operably engaging first, second, third, and fourth tabs of a first support channel with a first support plate.

The second support channel 308 defines a first opening 392 and a second opening 393. The first opening 392 and the second opening 393 are positioned on the central portion 382 of the wall 380. The first opening 392 and the second opening 393 also extend entirely through the central portion 382 of the wall 380. The first opening 392 is sized and configured to receive a first nut 394 in which the first nut 394 is disposed within the first opening 392 and operably engages the central portion 382 of the wall 380. Similarly, the second opening 393 is sized and configured to receive a second nut 396 in which the second nut 396 is disposed within the second opening 393 and operably engages the central portion 382 of the wall 380. In this illustrated embodiment, the first and second nuts 394, 396 are press-fitted to the second support channel 308 inside of the first and second openings 392, 393. The first nut 394 and the second nut 396 may operably engage the second support channel 308 inside the first opening 392 and the second opening 393 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a first nut and a second nut with a first support channel inside a first opening and a second opening include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a first nut and a second nut with a second support channel inside a first opening and a second opening. In addition, the first and second nuts 394, 396 are sized and configured to operably engage the second release knob 316 once the second release knob 316 is introduced into either the first nut 394 or the second nut 396, which is described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 14A, the first adjustment member 310 includes a front end 310A, a rear end 310B opposite to the front end 310A, a left side 310C, and a right side 310D opposite to the left side 310C. The first adjustment member 310 includes a wall 400. The wall 400 has a central portion 402 that extends from the left side 310C to the right side 310D of the first adjustment member 310. The wall 400 also has a frontal portion 404 that extends downwardly from the central portion 402 of the wall 400 at the front end 310A of the first adjustment member 310. The frontal portion 404 is continuous with the central portion 402 such the frontal portion 404 is integral with the central portion 402 defined at a first bend 405 formed in the wall 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the frontal portion 404 is bent relative to the central portion 402 such that the frontal portion 404 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 402. The wall 400 also has a rear portion 406 that extends downwardly from the central portion 402 of the wall 400 at the rear end 310B of the first adjustment member 310. The rear portion 406 is continuous with the central portion 402 such that the rear portion 406 is integral with the central portion 402 defined at a second bend 407 formed in the wall 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 406 is bent relative to the central portion 402 such that the rear portion 406 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 402. The rear portion 406 of the wall 400 is parallel with the frontal portion 404 of the wall 400, and the frontal and rear portions 404, 406 of the wall 400 oppose one another on the first adjustment member 310.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the wall 400 also has a first bottom portion 408 that extends laterally from the front portion 404 of the wall 400 at the front end 310A of the first adjustment member 310. The first bottom portion 408 is continuous with the front portion 404 such that the first bottom portion 408 is integral with the front portion 404 defined at a third bend 409 formed in the wall 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the first bottom portion 408 is bent relative to the front portion 404 such that the first bottom portion 408 is disposed orthogonal to the front portion 404. Similarly, the wall 400 has a second bottom portion 410 that extends laterally from the rear portion 406 of the wall 400 at the rear end 310B of the first adjustment member 310. The second bottom portion 410 is continuous with the rear portion 406 such that the second bottom portion 410 is integral with the rear portion 406 defined at a fourth bend 411 formed in the wall 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the second bottom portion 410 is bent relative to the rear portion 406 such that the second bottom portion 410 is disposed orthogonal to the rear portion 406. The second bottom portion 410 of the wall 400 is parallel with the first bottom portion 408 of the wall 400, and the first and second portions 408, 410 of the wall 400 oppose one another on the first adjustment member 310.

The wall 400 also has a tab 414 that extends downwardly from the central portion 402 of the wall 400. The tab 414 is disposed between the left side 310C and the right side 310D of the first adjustment member 310 closer to the left side 310C of the first adjustment member 310. The tab 414 is continuous with the central portion 402 such that the first tab 414 is integral with the central portion 402 defined at a fifth bend 415 formed in the wall 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the first tab 414 is cut from the central portion 402 of the wall 400 and is bent relative to the central portion 402 such that the first tab 414 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 402.

As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the wall 400 also has a left portion 416 that extends upwardly from the central portion 402 of the wall 400 at the left side 310C of the first adjustment member 310. The left portion 416 is continuous with the central portion 402 such the left portion 414 is integral with the central portion 402 defined at a sixth bend 417 formed in the wall 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the left portion 416 is bent relative to the central portion 402 such that the left portion 416 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 402. The left portion 416 defines a first opening 418, a second opening 419, and a third opening 420. The first opening 418, the second opening 419, and the third opening 420 extend entirely through the left portion 416 of the wall 400. The first opening 418 is disposed between the sixth bend 417 and a terminal end of the left portion 416 that is directly opposite to the sixth bend 417 in which the first opening 418 is disposed closer the terminal end of the left portion 416 that is directly opposite to the sixth bend 417. The second opening 419 is disposed between the first opening 418 and the sixth bend 417 in which the second opening 419 is disposed closer to the sixth bend 417. The third opening 420 is disposed between the first and second openings 418, 419 on the left portion 416 of the wall 400.

Furthermore, the first opening 418 is sized and configured to receive a first nut 422 in which the first nut 422 is disposed within the first opening 418 and operably engages the left portion 416 of the wall 400. Similarly, the second opening 419 is sized and configured to receive a second nut 423 in which the second nut 423 is disposed within the second opening 419 and operably engages the left portion 416 of the wall 400. The first nut 422 and the second nut 423 may operably engage the first adjustment member 310 inside the first opening 418 and the second opening 419 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a first nut and a second nut with a first adjustment member inside a first opening and a second opening include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a first nut and a second nut with a first adjustment member inside a first opening and a second opening. In this illustrated embodiment, the first and second nuts 422, 423 are press-fitted to the first adjustment member 310 inside of the first and second openings 418, 419. In addition, the first and second nuts 422, 423 are sized and configured to operably engage certain associated components included in the pivot assembly 500, which is described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 14B, the second adjustment member 312 includes a front end 312A, a rear end 312B disposed opposite to the front end 312A, a left side 312C, and a right side 312D disposed opposite to the left side 312C. The second adjustment member 312 includes a wall 430. The wall 430 has a central portion 432 that extends from the left side 312C to the right side 312D of the second adjustment member 312. The wall 430 also has a frontal portion 434 that extends downwardly from the central portion 432 of the wall 430 at the front end 312A of the second adjustment member 312. The frontal portion 434 is continuous with the central portion 432 such the frontal portion 434 is integral with the central portion 432 defined at a first bend 435 formed in the wall 430. In the illustrated embodiment, the frontal portion 434 is bent relative to the central portion 432 such that the frontal portion 434 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 432. The wall 430 also has a rear portion 436 that extends downwardly from the central portion 432 of the wall 430 at the rear end 312B of the second adjustment member 312. The rear portion 436 is continuous with the central portion 432 such that the rear portion 436 is integral with the central portion 432 defined at a second bend 437 formed in the wall 430. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 436 is bent relative to the central portion 432 such that the rear portion 436 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 432. The rear portion 436 of the wall 430 is parallel with the frontal portion 434 of the wall 430, and the frontal and rear portions 434, 436 of the wall 430 oppose one another on the second adjustment member 312.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the wall 430 also has a first bottom portion 438 that extends laterally from the front portion 434 of the wall 430 at the front end 312A of the second adjustment member 312. The first bottom portion 438 is continuous with the front portion 434 such that the first bottom portion 438 is integral with the front portion 434 defined at a third bend 439 formed in the wall 430. In the illustrated embodiment, the first bottom portion 438 is bent relative to the front portion 434 such that the first bottom portion 438 is disposed orthogonal to the front portion 434. Similarly, the wall 430 has a second bottom portion 440 that extends laterally from the rear portion 436 of the wall 430 at the rear end 312B of the second adjustment member 312. The second bottom portion 440 is continuous with the rear portion 436 such that the second bottom portion 440 is integral with the rear portion 436 defined at a fourth bend 441 formed in the wall 430. In the illustrated embodiment, the second bottom portion 440 is bent relative to the rear portion 436 such that the second bottom portion 440 is disposed orthogonal to the rear portion 436. The second bottom portion 440 of the wall 430 is parallel with the first bottom portion 438 of the wall 430, and the first and second portions 438, 440 of the wall 430 oppose one another on the second adjustment member 312.

The wall 430 also has a tab 434 that extends downwardly from the central portion 432 of the wall 430. The tab 444 is disposed between the left side 312C and the right side 312D of the second adjustment member 312 closer to the right side 312D of the second adjustment member 312. The tab 444 is continuous with the central portion 432 such that the first tab 444 is integral with the central portion 432 defined at a fifth bend 445 formed in the wall 430. In the illustrated embodiment, the first tab 444 is cut from the central portion 432 of the wall 430 and is bent relative to the central portion 432 such that the first tab 444 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 432.

The wall 430 also has a right portion 446 that extends upwardly from the central portion 432 of the wall 430 at the right side 312D of the second adjustment member 312. The right portion 446 is continuous with the central portion 432 such the right portion 446 is integral with the central portion 432 defined at a sixth bend 447 formed in the wall 430. In the illustrated embodiment, the right portion 446 is bent relative to the central portion 432 such that the right portion 446 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 432. The right portion 446 defines a first opening 448, a second opening 449, and a third opening 450. The first opening 448, the second opening 449, and the third opening 450 also extend entirely through the right portion 446 of the wall 430. The first opening 448 is disposed between the sixth bend 447 and a terminal end of the right portion 446 that is directly opposite to the sixth bend 447 in which the first opening 448 is disposed closer the terminal end of the right portion 446 that is directly opposite to the sixth bend 447. The second opening 449 is disposed between the first opening 448 and the sixth bend 447 in which the second opening 449 is disposed closer to the sixth bend 447. The third opening 450 is disposed between the first and second openings 448, 449 on the right portion 446 of the wall 430.

Furthermore, the first opening 448 is sized and configured to receive a first nut 452 in which the first nut 452 is disposed within the first opening 448 and operably engages the right portion 446 of the wall 430. Similarly, the second opening 449 is sized and configured to receive a second nut 453 in which the second nut 453 is disposed within the second opening 449 and operably engages the right portion 446 of the wall 430. In this illustrated embodiment, the first and second nuts 452, 453 are press-fitted to the second adjustment member 312 inside of the first and second openings 448, 449. The first nut 452 and the second nut 453 may operably engage the second adjustment member 312 inside the first opening 418 and the second opening 419 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a first nut and a second nut with a second adjustment member inside a first opening and a second opening include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a first nut and a second nut with a second adjustment member inside a first opening and a second opening. In addition, the first and second nuts 452, 453 are sized and configured to operably engage certain associated components included in the pivot assembly 500, which is described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, each of the first and second release knobs 314, 316 include a shaft 314A, 316A with a thread 314B, 316B is disposed circumferentially about each shaft 314A, 316B of the first and second release knobs 314, 316. The thread 314B of the first release knob 314 is complementary to the threading provided in each of the first and second nuts 374, 376 provided in the first support channel 306. The complementary configuration between the first release knob 314 and the first and second nuts 374, 376 of the first support channel 306 allows the first release knob 314 to be moveably disposed within either the first and second nuts 374, 376 to maintain and secure the first adjustment member 310 at a desired location within the first support channel 306. Similarly, the thread 316 of the second release knob 316 is complementary to the threading provided in each of the first and second nuts 394, 396 provided in the second support channel 308. The complementary configuration between the second release knob 316 and the first and second nuts 394, 396 of the second support channel 308 allows the second release knob 316 to be moveably disposed within either the first and second nuts 394, 396 to maintain and secure the second adjustment member 312 at a desired location within the second support channel 308. Furthermore, each of the first and second release knobs 314, 316 includes a handle 314C, 316C that is attached to the shaft 314A, 316B. The handle 314C, 316C of each of the first and second release knobs 314, 316 allows a user to manipulate and adjust the first and second release knobs 314, 316 when collapsing or expanding the expansion assembly 300 of the adjustable desk 10, which is described in more detail below.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first adjustment member 310 and the second adjustment member 312 operably engage the first support channel 306 and the second support channel 308 in a collapsed position (FIG. 7) and in an expanded position (FIGS. 17 and 18). In the collapsed position, a portion of the first adjustment member 310 between the left and right sides 310C, 310D of the first adjustment member 310 is disposed inside the first support channel 306 in which the right side 310D of the first adjustment member 310 is disposed past the right side 306D of the first support channel 306. Similarly, a portion of the second adjustment member 312 between the left and right sides 312C, 312D of the second adjustment member 312 is disposed inside the second support channel 308 in which the left side 312C of the second adjustment member 312 is disposed past the left side 308C of the second support channel 308. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the first and second release knobs 314, 316 are operably engaging the central portions 402, 432 of the first and second adjustment member 310, 312 so that the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 are maintained in the collapsed position.

The first and second adjustment members 310, 312 are moveably disposed inside the first and second support channels 306, 308 from the collapsed position to the expanded position via the first and second release knobs 314, 316 disengaging the first and second adjustment members 310, 312. In the collapsed position, the first release knob 314 is disposed at a first distance B₁measured relative to the left portion 416 of the first adjustment member 310 as illustrated in FIG. 5. In the collapsed position, the second release knob 316 is disposed at a first distance C₁measured relative to the right portion 446 of the second adjustment member 312 as illustrated in FIG. 5.

In order to transition the expansion assembly 300 of the adjustable desk 10 from the collapsed position to the expanded position, a user of the adjustable desk 10 must exert a force on each of the first and second release knobs 314, 316. As the user exerts a rotational force in the counter-clockwise direction upon each of the first and second release knobs 314, 316, as indicated by arrows 315 the first and second release knobs 314, 316 transition away from the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 and disengage the central portions 402, 432 of the first and second adjustment members 310, 312. In the expanded position, a portion of the first adjustment member 310 between the left and right sides 310C, 310D of the first adjustment member 310 is disposed inside the first support channel 306 in which the right side 310D of the first adjustment member 310 is disposed inside the first support channel 306. Similarly, a portion of the second adjustment member 312 between the left and right sides 312C, 312D of the second adjustment member 312 is disposed inside the second support channel 308 in which the left side 312C of the second adjustment member 312 is disposed inside the left side 308C of the second support channel 308.

The first and second release knobs 314, 316 may reengage the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 once the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 reach a suitable expanded position determined by the user. To reengage the central portions 402, 432 of the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 and maintain the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 in the expanded position, the user applies an opposing rotational force on each of the first and second release knobs 314, 316 in the clockwise direction until the first and second release knobs 314, 316 engage the first and second adjustment members 310, 312. In the expanded position, the first release knob 314 is disposed at a second distance B₂measured relative to the left portion 416 of the first adjustment member 310 in which the second distance B₂is greater than the first distance B₁. In the expanded position, the second release knob 316 is disposed at a second distance C₂measured relative to the right portion 446 of the second adjustment member 312 in which the second distance C₂is greater than the first distance C₁. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 28-34, the expansion assembly 300 of the adjustable desk 10 is provided in the expanded position when the adjustable desk 10 operably engages to the first and second arms 4, 5 of the treadmill 1.

The pivot assembly 500 includes at least one pivot bracket and at least one release knob. As illustrated in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the pivoting assembly 500 includes a first pivot bracket 502, a second pivot bracket 504, a third release knob 506, and a fourth release knob 508. As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the first pivot bracket 502 operably engages the first adjustment member 310 of the expansion assembly 300. As illustrated in FIG. 14B, the third release knob 506 operably engages the first pivot bracket 502 and the first adjustment member 310. The second pivot bracket 504 also operably engages the second adjustment member 312 of the expansion assembly 300. The fourth release knob 508 also operably engages the second pivot bracket 504 and the second adjustment member 312.

As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the first pivot bracket 502 includes a front end 502A, a rear end 502B disposed opposite to the front end 502A, a left side 502C, a right side 502D disposed opposite to the left side 502C, a top end 502E, and a bottom end 502F that is disposed opposite to the top end 502E.

The first pivot bracket 502 includes a wall 520. The wall 520 has a central portion 522 that extends between the left side 502C and the right side 502D. The wall 520 also has a right portion 524 that extends upwardly from the central portion 522 of the wall 520 at the right side 502D of the first pivot bracket 502. The right portion 524 is continuous with the central portion 522 such the right portion 524 is integral with the central portion 522 defined at a first bend 525 formed in the wall 520. In the illustrated embodiment, the right portion 524 is bent relative to the central portion 522 such that the right portion 524 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 522. The wall 520 also has a left portion 526 that extends downwardly from the central portion 522 of the wall 520 at the left side 502C of the first pivot bracket 502. The left portion 526 is continuous with the central portion 522 such that the left portion 526 is integral with the central portion 522 defined at a second bend 527 formed in the wall 520. In the illustrated embodiment, the left portion 526 is bent relative to the central portion 522 such that the left portion 526 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 522. The wall 520 also has a bottom portion 528 that extends laterally towards the right side 502D of the first pivot bracket 502 from the left portion 526 of the wall 520 at the bottom end 502F of the first pivot bracket 502. The bottom portion 528 is continuous with the left portion 526 such that the bottom portion 528 is integral with the left portion 526 at a third bend 529 formed in the wall 520. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion 528 is bent relative to the left portion 526 such that the bottom portion 528 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 522. The central portion 522 and the bottom portion 528 are parallel to one another on the wall 520, and the right portion 524 and the left portion 526 are parallel to one another on the wall 520.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 14A, the wall 520 defines a slot 533, a first opening 534, and a second opening 536. The slot 533 is defined on the right portion 524 of the wall 520. The slot 533 extends entirely through the right portion 524. The slot 533 defines a first end 533A and a second end 533B that opposes the first end 533A. The first end 533A is disposed between the front and rear ends 502A, 502B of the first pivot bracket 502 closer to the rear end 502B. The second end 533B is also disposed between the front and rear ends 502A, 502B of the first pivot bracket 502, but is disposed closer to the front end 502A. The slot 533 defines an arch-shaped configuration that extends from the first end 533A of the slot 533 to the second end 533B of the slot 533. In one exemplary embodiment, a first slot may define a round and/or semicircular arch-shaped configuration from a first end of the first slot to a second end of the first slot. The first opening 534 is also defined on the right portion 524 of the wall 520. The first opening 534 extends entirely through the right portion 524. The first opening 534 is aligned with the first and second ends 533A, 533B of the slot 533 on the right portion 524 of the wall 520. The first opening 534 is sized and configured to receive a first fastener 535 that extends entirely through the first opening 534 to operably engage the first pivot bracket 502 with the first adjustment member 310, which is described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the second opening 536 is defined on the bottom portion 528 of the wall 520. The second opening 536 extends entirely through the bottom portion 528. The second opening 536 is sized and configured to receive a first nut 537 that operably engages the bottom portion 528 of the wall 520. In this illustrated embodiment, the first nut 537 is press-fitted to the bottom portion 528 of the wall 520 inside the second opening 536. The first nut 537 may operably engage the bottom portion 528 of the wall 520 inside the second opening 536 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a first nut with a bottom portion of a wall inside a first opening include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a first nut with a bottom portion of a wall inside a first opening. In addition, the first nut 537 is sized and configured to operably engage the third release knob 506 once the third release knob 506 is introduced into the first nut 537, which is described in more detail below.

The wall 520 also includes a plurality of gussets 538 disposed along the wall 520. The plurality of gussets 538 is disposed along the first, second, and third bends 525, 527, 529 to provide additional rigidity and support to the wall 520. In the illustrated embodiment, first and second gussets 538A, 538B are provided at the first bend 525 in which the first and second gussets 538A, 538B operably engage the central portion 522 and the right portion 524 of the wall 520. In addition, third and fourth gussets 538C, 538D are provided at the second bend 527 in which the third and fourth gussets 538C, 538D operably engage the central portion 522 and the left portion 526 of the wall 520. Moreover, fifth and sixth gussets 538E, 538F are provided at the third bend 529 in which the fifth and sixth gussets 538E, 538F operably engage the left portion 526 and the bottom portion 528 of the wall 520. In this illustrated embodiment, each gusset of the plurality of gussets 538 is welded at each of the first, second, and third bends 525, 527, 529 of the wall 520 of the first pivot bracket 502. In one exemplary embodiment, at least one gusset in a plurality of gussets may be provided at first, second, and third bends formed in a wall of a first pivot plate. The plurality of gussets 538 may operably engage the wall 520 of the first pivot bracket 502 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a plurality of gussets to a wall of a first pivot plate include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a plurality of gussets to a wall of a first pivot plate.

In addition, the first pivot bracket 502 includes a pad 539. The pad 539 is provided on the inner surface 532 of the central portion 522 of the first pivot bracket 502. In the illustrated embodiment, the pad 539 is adhered to the inner surface 532 of the central portion 522 of the first pivot bracket 502. The pad 539 may operably engage the wall 520 of the first pivot bracket 502 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a pad to a wall of a first pivot plate include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a pad to a wall of a first pivot plate.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 14B, the second pivot bracket 504 includes a front end 504A, a rear end 504B disposed opposite to the front end 504A, a left side 504C, a right side 504D disposed opposite to the left side 504C, a top end 504E, and a bottom end 504F that is disposed opposite to the top end 504E.

As illustrated in FIG. 14B, the first pivot bracket 504 includes a wall 540. The wall 540 has a central portion 542 that extends between the left side 504C and the right side 504D. The wall 540 also has a left portion 544 that extends upwardly from the central portion 542 of the wall 540 at the left side 504C of the second pivot bracket 504. The left portion 544 is continuous with the central portion 542 such the left portion 544 is integral with the central portion 542 defined at a first bend 545 formed in the wall 540. In the illustrated embodiment, the left portion 544 is bent relative to the central portion 542 such that the left portion 544 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 542. The wall 540 also has a right portion 546 that extends downwardly from the central portion 542 of the wall 540 at the right side 504D of the second pivot bracket 504. The right portion 546 is continuous with the central portion 542 such that the right portion 546 is integral with the central portion 542 defined at a second bend 547 formed in the wall 540. In the illustrated embodiment, the right portion 546 is bent relative to the central portion 542 such that the right portion 546 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 542. The wall 540 also has a bottom portion 548 that extends laterally towards the left side 504C of the second pivot bracket 504 from the right portion 548 of the wall 540 at the bottom end 504F of the second pivot bracket 504. The bottom portion 548 is continuous with the right portion 546 such that the bottom portion 548 is integral with the right portion 546 at a third bend 549 formed in the wall 540. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion 548 is bent relative to the right portion 546 such that the bottom portion 548 is disposed orthogonal to the central portion 542. The central portion 542 and the bottom portion 548 are parallel to one another on the wall 540, and the left portion 544 and the right portion 546 are parallel to one another on the wall 540.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, the wall 520 also defines a slot 553, a first opening 554, and a second opening 556. The slot 553 is defined on the left portion 544 of the wall 540. The slot 553 extends entirely through the left portion 544. The slot 553 defines a first end 553A and a second end 553B that opposes the first end 553A. The first end 553A is disposed between the front and rear ends 504A, 504B of the second pivot bracket 504 closer to the rear end 504B. The second end 553B is also disposed between the front and rear ends 504A, 504B of the second pivot bracket 504, but is disposed closer to the front end 504A. The slot 553 defines an arch-shaped configuration that extends from the first end 553A of the slot 553 to the second end 553B of the slot 553. In one exemplary embodiment, a first slot may define a round and/or semicircular arch-shaped configuration from a first end of the first slot to a second end of the first slot. The first opening 554 is also defined on the left portion 544 of the wall 540. The first opening 554 extends entirely through the left portion 544. The first opening 554 is aligned with the first and second ends 553A, 553B of the slot 553 on the left portion 544 of the wall 540. The first opening 554 is sized and configured to receive a second fastener 555 that extends entirely through the first opening 554 to operably engage the second pivot bracket 504 with the second adjustment member 312, which is described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIG. 14B, the second opening 556 is defined on the bottom portion 548 of the wall 540. The second opening 556 extends entirely through the bottom portion 548. The second opening 556 is sized and configured to receive a second nut 557 that operably engages the bottom portion 558 of the wall 540. In the illustrated embodiment, the second nut 557 is press-fitted to the bottom portion 548 of the wall 540 inside the second opening 556. The second nut 557 may operably engage the bottom portion 548 of the wall 540 inside the second opening 556 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a first nut with a bottom portion of a wall inside a first opening include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a first nut with a bottom portion of a wall inside a first opening. In addition, the second nut 557 is sized and configured to operably engage the fourth release knob 508 once the fourth release knob 508 is introduced into the second nut 557, which is described in more detail below.

The wall 520 also includes a plurality of gussets 558 disposed along the wall 540. The plurality of gussets 558 is disposed along the first, second, and third bends 545, 547, 549 to provide additional rigidity and support to the wall 540. In the illustrated embodiment, first and second gussets 558A, 558B are provided at the first bend 545 in which the first and second gussets 558A, 558B operably engage the central portion 542 and the left portion 544 of the wall 540. In addition, third and fourth gussets 558C, 558D are provided at the second bend 547 in which the third and fourth gussets 558C, 558D operably engage the central portion 542 and the right portion 546 of the wall 540. Moreover, fifth and sixth gussets 558E, 558F are provided at the third bend 549 in which the fifth and sixth gussets 558E, 558F operably engage the right portion 546 and the bottom portion 548 of the wall 540. In one exemplary embodiment, at least one gusset in a plurality of gussets may be provided at first, second, and third bends formed in a wall of a second pivot plate. In this illustrated embodiment, each gusset of the plurality of gussets 558 is welded at each of the first, second, and third bends 545, 547, 549 of the wall 540 of the second pivot bracket 504. The plurality of gussets 558 may operably engage the wall 540 of the second pivot bracket 504 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a plurality of gussets to a wall of a first pivot plate include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a plurality of gussets to a wall of a first pivot plate

As illustrated in FIGS. 14A and 14B, each of the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508 include a shaft 506A, 508A with a thread 506B, 508B is disposed circumferentially about each shaft 506A, 508A of the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508. In addition, each of the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508 includes a handle 506C, 508C that attaches to each shaft 506A, 506B of each of third and fourth release knobs 506, 508. The thread 506B of the third release knob 506 is complementary to a threading (not illustrated) provided in each of the first and second nuts 422, 423 provided in the first adjustment member 310. The complementary configuration between the third release knob 506 and the first and second nuts 422, 423 of the first adjustment member 310 allows the third release knob 506 to be moveably disposed within either the first and second nuts 422, 423 to maintain and secure the first adjustment member 310 at a desired angle relative to the first pivot member 502. Similarly, the thread 508B of the fourth release knob 508 is complementary to the threading (not illustrated) provided in each of the first and second nuts 452, 453 provided in the second adjustment member 312. The complementary configuration between the fourth release knob 508 and the first and second nuts 452, 453 of the second adjustment member 312 allows the fourth release knob 508 to be moveably disposed within either the first and second nuts 452, 453 to maintain and secure the second adjustment member 312 at a desired angle relative to the second pivot member 504.

As illustrated in FIGS. 20, 21 and 27, the first pivot bracket 502 and the second pivot bracket 504 operably engage the first adjustment member 310 and the second adjustment member 312 in a level position (FIG. 1) and in a tilted position (FIGS. 22, 23 and 33). As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 8, the third release knob 506 is disposed at the central point of the slot 533 of the first pivot bracket 502 between the first and second ends 533A, 533B of the slot 533 in the level position. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the fourth release knob 508 is disposed at the central point of the second slot 553 of the second pivot bracket 504 between the first and second ends 553A, 553B of the slot 553 in the level position. In the level position, the handle 506C of the third release knob 506 abuts and engages the outer surface 530 of the first pivot bracket 502, and the thread 506B of the third release knob 506 engages the first nut 422 of the first adjustment member 310 to maintained the first adjustment member 310 in the level position. The interaction of the third release knob 506 operably engaging the first pivot bracket 502 and the first adjustment member 310 creates a mechanism that compresses the first adjustment member 310 against the first pivot bracket 502 to prevent against rotational movement of the first adjustment member 310. Similarly, the head 508C of the fourth release knob 508 abuts and engages the outer surface 550 of the second pivot bracket 504, and the thread 508B of the fourth release knob 508 engages the first nut 452 of the second adjustment member 312 to maintained the second adjustment member 312 in the level position. The interaction of the fourth release knob 508 operably engaging the second pivot bracket 504 and the second adjustment member 312 creates a mechanism that compresses the second adjustment member 312 against the second pivot plate 508 to prevent against rotational movement of the second adjustment member 312.

In addition, the first fastener 535 operably engages the first pivot bracket 502 and the first adjustment member 310 such that the first fastener 535 is disposed inside of the first opening 534 of the first pivot bracket 502 and is disposed inside of the third opening 420 of the first adjustment member 310. Similarly, the second fastener 555 operably engages the second pivot bracket 504 and the second adjustment member 312 such that the second fastener 555 is disposed inside of the first opening 554 of the second pivot bracket 504 and is disposed inside of the third opening 450 of the second adjustment member 312. In addition, the first and second fasteners 535, 555 in the adjustable desk 10 provide support between the expansion assembly 300 and the pivoting assembly 500. The first fastener 535 provides support between the first pivot bracket 502 and the first adjustment member 310, and the second fastener 555 provides support between the second pivot bracket 504 and the second adjustment 312. Moreover, each of the first and second fasteners 535, 555 defines an axis of rotation. As illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21, the first fastener 535 provides a first axis of rotation “X₁” along the length of the first fastener 535 in which the first adjustment member 310 rotates about the first axis of rotation “X₁” during the transition between the level position and the tilted position, which is described in more detail below. The second fastener 555 provides a second axis of rotation “X₂” along the length of the second fastener 555 in which the second adjustment member 312 rotates about the second axis of rotation “X₂” during the transition between the level position and the tilted position, which is described in more detail below.

The first and second adjustment members 310, 312 are moveably rotatable relative to the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 from the level position to the tilted position via the handles 506C, 508C of the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508 disengaging the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. As illustrated in FIG. 20, the user exerts a rotational force in the counter-clockwise direction upon each of the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508, as indicated by arrows 507. Upon such force, the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508 transition away from the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 and the handle 506C, 508C disengage from the outer surfaces 425, 455 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. In this state, the user may rotate and/or tilt the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 along the slots 533, 553 provided on the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. Upon the user rotating the first and second adjustment members 310, 312, the first and second adjustment member 310, 312 rotate about the first and second axes of rotation “X₁”, “X₂^”of the first and second fasteners 535, 555. As illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 20, the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 are rotated towards the second ends 533B, 553B of the slots 533, 553 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. As such, the third release knob 506 is disposed closer to second end 533B of the slot 533, and the fourth release knob 508 is disposed closer to the second end 553B of the slot 553. In addition, a user may rotate and/or tilt the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 along the slots 533, 553 provided on the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 in which the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 are rotated towards the first ends 533A, 553A of the slots 533, 553 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. As such, the third release knob 506 is disposed closer to first end 533A of the slot 533, and the fourth release knob 508 is disposed closer to the first end 553A of the slot 553.

Once a desired angle is determined by a user, the handle 506C, 508C may be reengage the outer surfaces 425, 455 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. To reengage the outer surfaces 425, 455 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 and maintain the first and second adjustment members 310, 312 in the desired tilted position, the user applies an opposing rotational force on each of the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508 in the clockwise direction until the handles 506C, 508C of the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508 engage the outer surfaces 530, 550 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. Such engagement compresses the first adjustment member 310 against the first pivot bracket 502 and compresses the second adjustment member 312 against the second pivot plate 508 to prevent against rotational movement of the first and second adjustment members 310, 312.

In the illustrated embodiment, the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 rotate and/or tilt collectively due to the configuration of the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 in the adjustable desk 10. In other words, the top and bottom platform 100, 200 remain parallel with one another when rotated and/or tilted at any capable angle. In addition, the associated components that make up the expansion assembly 300 remain parallel with the top and bottom platform 100, 200 in the level and tilted positions. In the level position, the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 are collectively parallel to the bottom portions 528, 548 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. As illustrated in FIG. 21, the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 are collectively defined at an angle α that is measured relative to the bottom portions 528, 548 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 in the tilted position. In one exemplary embodiment, the angle α may be between the range of about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees. In another exemplary embodiment, the angle α may be between the range of about 0 degrees to about −90 degrees. In the tilted position, the first and second stoppers 140, 240 of the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 prevent items and/or objects from sliding off of the top and bottom platforms 100, 200.

The capability of rotating and/or tilting the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 is considered advantageous at least because this capability allows a user to tilt the first and second platforms 100, 200 depending on what angle of tilt is most comfortable and/or ergonomic for the user when using the adjustable desk 10 on the treadmill 1. For example, a user may tilt the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 downwardly to complement the angle of tilt and/or incline the treadmill 1 is disposed at when the user is operating the treadmill at an inclined angle. In addition, the determination made by the user may be dependent on the height of the user, the type of activity being used on the adjustable desk 10 by the user, and other suitable determinations that are considered useful for making the adjustable desk 10 more comfortable and ergonomic for the user.

As illustrated in FIGS. 22, 23, and 28, the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 may be oriented in a different arrangement when the adjustable desk 10 engages the treadmill 1. Here, the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 are rotated 180 degrees about the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508 such that the bottom portions 528, 548 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 are disposed above the top and bottom platforms 100, 200. The rotational force applied to the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 is denoted by arrows labeled 717 in FIG. 22. Prior to rotating the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 to the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 22, 23, and 28, the first and second fasteners 535, 555 are removed from the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504, and the handle 506C, 508C disengage the outer surfaces 530, 550 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. Once bottom portions 528, 548 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 are disposed above the top and bottom platforms 100, 200, the first and second fasteners 535, 555 operably reengage the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 and the first and second adjustment members 310, 312. In addition, the handle 506C, 508C reengages with the outer surfaces 530, 550 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. The configuration of the adjustable desk 10 as illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22 is considered advantageous at least because this configuration allows a user of shorter height to utilize the adjustable desk 10 in a more comfortable and ergonomic position when the adjustable desk 10 is operably engaged to a treadmill, such as treadmill 1.

In addition, the manipulation of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 relative to the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 on the adjustable desk 10 allows the adjustable desk 10 to be packaged and shipped while being fully assembled. In this configuration, the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 may be rotated 90 degrees about the third and fourth release knobs 506, 508 towards the rear ends 1006, 200B of the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 such that the bottom portions 528, 548 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 are disposed behind the top and bottom platforms 100, 200 and are facing the rear portions 126, 226 of the top and bottom platforms 100, 200. To accomplish this configuration, the handles 506C, 508C disengage the outer surfaces 530, 550 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. Once bottom portions 528, 548 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 are disposed above the top and bottom platforms 100, 200, the handles 506C, 508C reengage the outer surfaces 530, 550 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504. This configuration allows the adjustable desk 10 to be in a compact state for the purposes of packaging and shipping the adjustable desk 10 while the adjustable desk 10 remains fully assembled upon delivery to a user.

The mounting assembly 600 includes at least one clamp. As illustrated in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the mounting assembly 600 includes a first clamp 602 and a second clamp 604. The first clamp 602 is provided on the first pivot bracket 502 of the pivoting assembly 500. The second clamp 604 is provided on the second pivot bracket 504 of the pivoting assembly 500.

As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the first clamp 602 includes a shaft 610 that defines a first end 610A and a second end 610B directly opposite to the first end 610A. The shaft 610 includes a thread 612 that extends circumferentially about the shaft 610 between the first end 610A of the shaft 610 to location disposed between the first and second ends 610A, 610B of the shaft 610. The thread 612 of the first clamp 602 is complementary to the threading of the first nut 537 provided on the first pivot bracket 502 to allow the first clamp 602 to operably engage the first pivot bracket 502 and to be moveably disposed on the bottom portion 528 of the wall 520. In one exemplary embodiment, a thread of a first clamp may be an ACME thread formed on a shaft of the first clamp. The shaft 610 also includes a blanked portion 614 that extends from the second end 610B to the thread 612 and is free of any threads. The first clamp 602 also includes an adjustment knob 616 that is disposed at the second end 610B of the shaft 610. The adjustment knob 616 includes an opening 617 that extends into the adjustment knob 616 and is defined by an interior wall 618. The opening 617 is sized and configured to receive the blanked portion 614 of the shaft 610 such that the adjustment knob 616 is provided on the shaft 610 to manipulate the first clamp 602. In addition, the adjustment knob 616 includes a fastener hole 619 that extends into the adjustment knob 616. The fastener hole 619 is sized and configured to receive a fastener (not illustrated) that operably engages the adjustment knob 616 to the shaft 610 at the blanked portion 614.

The first clamp 602 also includes a bumper 620 that is provided at the second end 610B of the shaft 610. As illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 14A, the bumper 620 is provided on the second end 610B of the shaft 610 after a portion of the thread 612 extends through and operably engages the first nut 537 on the first pivot bracket 502. The bumper 620 includes an opening 621 that extends into the bumper 620 defines by an interior wall 622. The interior wall 622 includes a threading (not illustrated) that is complementary to the thread 612 of the first clamp 602 such that bumper 620 operably engages the shaft 610. As illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 13, the bumper 620 is fastened to the shaft 610 via the threading of the bumper 620 and the thread 612 of the shaft 610. In addition, the bumper 620 defines a bottom surface 623 that is disposed towards the second end 610B of the shaft 610 once the bumper 620 operably engages the shaft 610. The bumper 620 also defines a top surface 624 that directly opposes the bottom surface 623 on the bumper 620. The top surface 624 is substantially planar in order to adequately engage a handlebar disposed on a treadmill, such as the first handlebar 4 disposed on the treadmill 1. The bottom and top surface 623, 624 are joined together by a circumferential surface 625 that is disposed circumferentially about the bumper 620.

As illustrated in FIG. 14B, the second clamp 604 includes a shaft 630 that defines a first end 630A and a second end 630B directly opposite to the first end 630A. The shaft 630 includes a thread 632 that extends circumferentially about the shaft 630 between the first end 630A of the shaft 630 to location disposed between the first and second ends 630A, 630B of the shaft 630. The thread 632 of the second clamp 604 is complementary to the threading of the second nut 557 provided on the second pivot bracket 504 to allow the second clamp 604 to operably engage the second pivot bracket 504 and to be moveably disposed is on the bottom portion 548 of the wall 540. In one exemplary embodiment, the thread 632 of the second clamp 604 may be an ACME thread formed on the shaft 630. The shaft 630 also includes a blanked portion 634 that extends from the second end 630B to the thread 632 and is free of any threads. The second clamp 604 also includes an adjustment knob 636 that is disposed at the second end 630A of the shaft 630. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the adjustment knob 636 includes an opening 637 that extends into the adjustment knob 636 and is defined by an interior wall 638. The opening 637 is sized and configured to receive the blanked portion 634 of the shaft 630 such that the adjustment knob 636 is provided on the shaft 630 to manipulate the second clamp 604. In addition, the adjustment knob 636 includes a fastener hole 639 that extends into the adjustment knob 636. The fastener hole 639 is sized and configured to receive a fastener (not illustrated) that operably engages the adjustment knob 636 to the shaft 630 at the blanked portion 634.

The second clamp 604 also includes a bumper 640 that is provided at the second end 630B of the shaft 630. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the bumper 640 is provided on the second end 630B of the shaft 630 after a portion of the thread 632 extends through and operably engages the second nut 557 on the second pivot bracket 504. The bumper 640 includes an opening 641 that extends into the bumper 640 defines by an interior wall 642. The interior wall 642 includes a threading (not illustrated) that is complementary to the thread 632 of the second clamp 604 such that bumper 640 operably engages the shaft 630. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the bumper 640 is fastened to the shaft 630 via the threading of the bumper 640 and the thread 632 of the shaft 630. In addition, the bumper 640 defines a bottom surface 643 that is disposed towards the second end 630B of the shaft 630 once the bumper 640 operably engages the shaft 630. The bumper 640 also defines a top surface 644 that directly opposes the bottom surface 643 on the bumper 640. The top surface 644 is substantially planar in order to adequately engage a handlebar disposed on a treadmill, such as the second handlebar 5 disposed on the treadmill 1. The bottom and top surface 643, 644 are joined together by a circumferential surface 645 that is disposed circumferentially about the bumper 640.

The first and second clamps 602, 604 are disposed in a disengaged position (FIGS. 26 and 27) and an engaged position (FIGS. 1 and 28-33) when disengaging and engaging the adjustable desk 10 to a treadmill, such as treadmill 1. In the disengaged position, the bumper 620 of the first clamp 602 is disposed between the central position 522 and the bottom portion 528 of the wall 520 of the first pivot bracket 502 closer to the bottom portion 528. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the top surface 624 of the bumper 620 is disposed at a first distance “G₁” measured relative to the pad 539 that is disposed on the wall 520 of the first pivot bracket 502 in the disengaged position. In addition, the bumper 640 of the second clamp 604 is disposed between the central position 542 and the bottom portion 548 of the wall 540 of the second pivot bracket 504 closer to the bottom portion 548. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the top surface 644 of the bumper 640 is disposed at a first distance “H₁” measured relative to the pad 559 that is disposed on the wall 540 of the second pivot bracket 504 in the disengaged position.

In order to transition the first and second clamps 602, 604 from a disengaged position to an engaged position, the user exerts a rotational force on each adjustment knob 616, 636 of the first and second clamps 602, 604 in the clockwise direction provided by the threading configuration between the first and second nuts 537, 557 and the threads 612, 632 of the first and second clamps 602, 604. Such rotational force linearly transitions the bumpers 620, 640 away from the bottom portions 528, 548 of the first and second pivot brackets 502, 504 and towards the pads 539, 559 to engage the arms 4, 5 on the treadmill 1. Such linear transitioning of the first and second clamps 602, 604 are shown by arrows labeled 606 in FIG. 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamp 602 rotates about a third axis of rotation “X₃” defined by the shaft 610, and the second clamp 604 rotates about a fourth axis of rotations “X₄” defined by the shaft 630.

Once the first and second bumpers 620, 640 of the first and second clamps 602, 604 operably engage the first and second arms 4, 5 on the treadmill 1, which is illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 24-28, the user ceases the rotational force on each adjustment knob 616, 636 of the first and second clamps 602, 604. In the engaged position, the top surface 624 of the bumper 620 abuts a bottom surface of the first handlebar 4 to operably engage the first clamp 602 to the first handlebar 4 of the treadmill 1. In the engaged position, the top surface 624 of the bumper 620 is disposed at a second distance “G₂” measured relative to the pad 539 disposed on the wall 520 of the first pivot bracket 502; the first distance “G₁” is greater than the second distance “G₂”. In addition, the top surface 644 of the bumper 640 abuts a bottom surface of the second handlebar 5 to operably engage the second clamp 604 to the second handlebar 5 to operably engage the second clamp 604 to the second handlebar 5 of the treadmill 1. In the engaged position, the top surface 644 of the bumper 640 is disposed at a second distance “H₂” measured relative to the pad 559 disposed on the wall 540 of the second pivot bracket 504; the first distance “H₁” is greater than the second distance “H₂”.

In addition, the first and second clamps 602, 604 may be provided in a different orientation when the first and second mounting brackets 502, 504 are rotated 180 degrees. As illustrated in FIG. 28, the top surface 624 of the bumper 620 abuts a top surface of the first handlebar 4 to operably engage the first clamp 602 to the first handlebar 4 of the treadmill 1 when the first pivot plate is rotated 180 degrees. Similarly, the top surface 644 of the bumper 640 abuts a top surface of the second handlebar 5 to operably engage the second clamp 604 to the second handlebar 5 of the treadmill 1 when the second pivot plate is rotated 180 degrees as illustrated in FIG. 28.

The lifting assembly 700 includes at least one outer arm operably engaged with at least one inner arm. As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the lifting assembly 700 includes a left outer arm 702A that operably engages with a left inner arm 704A, and a right outer arm 702B that operably engages with a right inner arm 704B. The left outer arm 702A and the left inner arm 704A operably engages the left sides 100C, 200C of the top and bottom portions 100, 200 in the adjustable desk 10. The right outer arm 702B and the left inner arm 704B operably engages the rights sides 100D, 200D of the top and bottom portions 100, 200 in the adjustable desk 10. The lifting assembly 700 also includes at least one bushing operably engaged with the at least one inner arm. In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting assembly 700 includes a left bushing 706A that operably engages the left inner arm 704A, and a right bushing 706B that operably engages the right inner arm 704B. The lifting assembly 700 also includes at least one support tube that operably engages with the at least one inner arm. In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting assembly 700 includes a left support tube 708A that operably engages the left inner arm 704A, and a right support tube 708B that operably engages the right inner arm 704B. The lifting assembly 700 also includes at least one stabilizer that operably engages with the at least one support tube. In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting assembly 700 includes a left stabilizer 710A that operably engages the left support tube 706A, and a right stabilizer 7106 that operably engages the right support tube 706B. The lifting assembly 700 also includes a lead nut apparatus 712 that operably engages the left and right stabilizers 710A, 710B. The lifting assembly also includes a lead screw 714 that operably engages the lead nut apparatus 712. The lifting assembly also includes a lifting adjusting knob 716 that operably engages the lead screw 714.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the left outer arm 702A has a wall 720 that is oblong-shaped. The wall 720 includes a first end 720A and a second end 720B opposite to the first end 720A. The left outer arm 702A also defines a first opening 722 disposed at the first end 720A of the wall 720 and extends entirely through the wall 720 of the left outer arm 702A. The left outer arm 702A also defines a second opening 724 disposed at the second end 720B of the wall 720 and extends entirely through the wall 720 of the left outer arm 702A. The left outer arm 702A also defines a third opening 726 that is disposed between the first and second openings 722, 724 on the wall 720 and extends entirely through the wall 720 of the left outer arm 702A.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 10, the left outer arm 702A operably engages the left portion 128 of the wall 120 of the top platform 100 via a fastener 728A. In the illustrated embodiment, the first opening 722 of the left outer arm 702A is sized and configured to receive the fastener 728A. The fastener 728A operably engages a first washer 728B and a second washer 728C. The first washer 728B is disposed between the fastener 728A and an outer surface of the left outer arm 702A when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. The second washer 728C is disposed between the inner surface 138 of the top platform 100 and a nut 728D. The fastener 728A also operably engages the first nut 728D that is disposed adjacent to the inner surface 138 of the wall 120 at the left portion 128 and abuts the second washer 728C. The fastener 728A is also sized and configured to be received by the first opening 132 that is positioned on the left portion 128 of the wall 120 of the top platform 100. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the fastener 728A passes into first opening 722 of the left outer arm 702A, through the first washer 728B, past the first opening 132 of the top platform 100, through the second washer 728C, and into the nut 728C to operably engage the left outer arm 702A with the top platform 100.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the left outer arm 702A operably engages the left tube arm 708A. In the illustrated embodiment, the second opening 724 of the left outer arm 702A is sized and configured to receive the left tube arm 708A. In this illustrated embodiment, the left tube arm 708A is press-fitted into the second opening 724 of the left outer arm 702A such that the left tube arm 708A is moveably disposed in the left outer arm 702A. The left tube arm 708A may operably engage the left outer arm 702A in any suitable arrangement, Examples of operably engaging a left outer arm with a left tube arm include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a left outer arm with a left tube arm. Further connection and engagement between the left outer arm 702A and the left tube arm 708A are described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 12, the left inner arm 704A includes a wall 730 that is oblong-shaped. The wall 730 includes a first end 730A and a second end 730B opposite to the first end 730A. The left inner arm 704A also defines a first opening 732 disposed at the first end 730A of the wall 730 and extends entirely through the wall 730 of the left inner arm 704A. The left inner arm 704A also defines a second opening 734 disposed at the second end 730B of the wall 730 and extends entirely through the wall 730 of the left inner arm 704A. The left inner arm 704A also defines a third opening 736 that is disposed between the first and second openings 732, 734 on the wall 730 and extends entirely through the wall 730 of the left inner arm 704A.

As illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 12, the left inner arm 704A operably engages the left portion 228 of the wall 220 of the bottom platform 200 via a fastener 738A. In the illustrated embodiment, the first opening 732 of the left inner arm 704A is sized and configured to receive the fastener 738A. The fastener 738A operably engages a first washer 738B and a second washer 738C. The first washer 738B is disposed between the third fastener 738A and the outer surface of the left inner arm 704A when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the second washer 738C is disposed between the inner surface 238 of the bottom platform 200 and a nut 738D when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. Still referring to FIG. 10, the fastener 738A also operably engages the nut 738D that is disposed adjacent to the inner surface 238 of the wall 220 at the left portion 228 and abuts the second washer 738C. The fastener 738A is also sized and configured to be received by the first opening 232 that is positioned on the left portion 228 of the wall 220 of the bottom platform 200. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the fastener 738A passes into first opening 732 of the left inner arm 704A, through the first washer 738B, passes into the first opening 232 at the left portion 228 of the wall 220 of the bottom platform 200, through the second washer 738C, and into the nut 738D to operably engage the left inner arm 704A with the bottom platform 200.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 12, the left inner arm 704A operably engages the first bushing 706A via a fastener 739A. In the illustrated embodiment, the second opening 734 of the left inner arm 704A is sized and configured to receive the fastener 739A. The fastener 739A operably engages a washer 739B that is disposed between the fastener 739A and the left inner arm 704A when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the fastener 739A also operably engages the first bushing 706A. The fastener 739A also operably engages a nut 739C that is disposed adjacent to and abuts the first bushing 706A. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the fastener 739A passes into second opening 734 of the left inner arm 704A, through the washer 729B, passes through the first bushing 706A, and into the nut 739C to operably engage the left inner arm 704A with first bushing 706A. Further connection and engagement between the left inner arm 704A and the first bushing 706A are described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the right outer arm 702B includes a wall 740 that is oblong-shaped. The wall 740 includes a first end 740A and a second end 740B opposite to the first end 740A. The right outer arm 702B also defines a first opening 742 disposed at the first end 740A of the wall 740 and extends entirely through the wall 740 of the right outer arm 702B. The right outer arm 702B also defines a second opening 744 disposed at the second end 740B of the wall 740 and extends entirely through the wall 740 of the right outer arm 702B. The right outer arm 702B also defines a third opening 746 that is disposed between the first and second openings 742, 744 on the wall 740 and extends entirely through the wall 740 of the right outer arm 702B.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the right outer arm 702B operably engages the right portion 130 of the wall 120 of the top platform 100 via a fastener 748A. In the illustrated embodiment, the first opening 742 of the right outer arm 702B is sized and configured to receive the fastener 748A. The fastener 748A operably engages a first washer 748B and a second washer 748C. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the first washer 748B is disposed between the first fastener 748A and the right outer arm 702B when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the second washer 748C is disposed between the inner surface 138 of the top platform 100 and a nut 748D when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. The fastener 748A also operably engages the first nut 748D that is disposed adjacent to the inner surface 138 of the wall 120 at the right portion 130 and abuts the second washer 748C. The fastener 748A is also sized and configured to be received by the second opening 134 that is positioned on the right portion 130 of the wall 120 of the top platform 100. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the fastener 748A passes into first opening 742 of the right outer arm 702B, through the first washer 748B, passes into the second opening 134 of the top platform 100, through the second washer 748C, and into the nut 748D to operably engage the right outer arm 702B with the top platform 100.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the right outer arm 702B operably engages the right tube arm 708B via a second fastener 749A. In the illustrated embodiment, the second opening 744 of the right outer arm 702B is sized and configured to receive the second fastener 749A. In the illustrated embodiment, the right tube arm 708B is press-fitted into the second opening 744 of the right outer arm 702B such that the right tube arm 708B is moveably disposed in the right outer arm 702B. The right outer arm 702B may operably engage the right tube arm 708B in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a right outer arm with a right tube arm include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a right outer arm with a right tube arm. Further connection and engagement between the right outer arm 702B and the right tube arm 708B are described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the right inner arm 704B includes a wall 750 that is oblong-shaped. The wall 750 includes a first end 750A and a second end 750B opposite to the first end 750A. The right inner arm 704B also defines a first opening 752 disposed at the first end 750A of the wall 750 and extends entirely through the wall 750 of the right inner arm 704B. The right inner arm 704B also defines a second opening 754 disposed at the second end 750B of the wall 750 and extends entirely through the wall 750 of the right inner arm 704B. The right inner arm 704B also defines a third opening 756 that is disposed between the first and second openings 752, 754 on the wall 750 and extends entirely through the wall 750 of the right inner arm 704B.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the right inner arm 704B operably engages the right portion 228 of the wall 220 of the bottom platform 200 via a fastener 758A. In the illustrated embodiment, the first opening 752 of the right inner arm 704B is sized and configured to receive the fastener 758A. The fastener 758A operably engages a first washer 758B and a second washer 758C. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the first washer 758B is disposed between the fastener 758A and the right inner arm 704B when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. The second washer 758C is disposed between the inner surface 238 of the bottom platform 200 and a nut 758D when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. The fastener 758A also operably engages the nut 758D that is disposed adjacent to the inner surface 238 of the wall 220 at the right portion 238 and abuts the second washer 758C. The fastener 758A is also sized and configured to be received by the second opening 234 that is positioned on the right portion 230 of the wall 220 of the bottom platform 200. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the third fastener 758A passes into first opening 752 of the right inner arm 704B, through the third washer 758B, passes through the second opening 234 at the right portion 230 of the wall 220 of the bottom platform 200, through the second washer 758C, and into the nut 758D to operably engage the right inner arm 704B with the bottom platform 200.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 12, the right inner arm 704B operably engages the second bushing 706B via a fastener 759A. In the illustrated embodiment, the second opening 754 of the right inner arm 704B is sized and configured to receive the fastener 759A. The fourth fastener 759A operably engages a washer 759B that is disposed between the fourth fastener 759A and the right inner arm 704B when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. The fastener 759A also operably engages the first bushing 706B. The fastener 759A also operably engages a nut 759C that is disposed adjacent to the second bushing 706B. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the fastener 759A passes into second opening 754 of the right inner arm 704B, through the washer 759B, past the second bushing 706B, and into the nut 759C to operably engage the right inner arm 704B with second bushing 706B. Further connection and engagement between the right inner arm 704B and the first bushing 706B are described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 10, the left outer arm 702A and the left inner arm 704A operably engage one another via a fastener 760A. The third opening 726 of the left outer arm 702A and the third opening 736 of the left inner arm 704A are sized and configured to receive the fastener 760A. The fastener 760A operably engages a first washer 760B, a second washer 760C, and third washer 760D. The first washer 760B is disposed between the fastener 760A and the outer surface of the left outer arm 702A. The second washer 760C is disposed the left outer arm 702A and the left inner arm 704A. The third washer 760D is disposed between the second washer 760C and a nut 760E. The fastener 760A also operably engages the nut 760E that is disposed adjacent to the third washer 760D. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the fastener 760A passes into third opening 726 of the left outer arm 702A, through the first washer 760B, passes through third opening 736 of left inner arm 704A, through the second and third washers 760C, 760D, and into the nut 760E to operably engage the left outer arm 702A with left inner arm 704A. Such connection between the left outer arm 702A and the left inner arm 704A allows the left outer arm 702A and the left inner arm 704A to collectively lift the left side 100C of the top platform 100 upwardly and away from bottom platform 200 as illustrated in FIGS. 15-17.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9-12, the right outer arm 702B and the right inner arm 704B operably engage one another via a fastener 762A. The third opening 746 of the right outer arm 702B and the third opening 756 of the right inner arm 704B are sized and configured to receive the fastener 762A. The fastener 762A operably engages a first washer 762B, a second washer 762C, and third washer 762D. The first washer 762B is disposed between the fastener 760A and the outer surface of the right outer arm 702B. The second washer 762C is disposed between the right outer arm 702B and the right inner arm 704B. The third washer 762D is disposed between the right inner arm 704B and a nut 762E. The fastener 762A also operably engages the nut 762E that is disposed adjacent to the third washer 762D. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the fastener 762A passes into third opening 746 of the right outer arm 702B, through the first washer 762B, passes through third opening 756 of the right inner arm 704B, through the second and third washers 762C, 762D, and into the nut 762E to operably engage the right outer arm 702B with right inner arm 704B. Such connection between the right outer arm 702B and the right inner arm 704B allows the right outer arm 702B and the right inner arm 704B to collectively lift the right side 100D of the top platform 100 upwardly and away from bottom platform 200 as illustrated in FIGS. 15-17.

The left bushing 706A includes a sliding portion 772 that extends along entire length of the left bushing 706A. The sliding portion 772 defines a sliding surface 773 that extends circumferentially about the sliding portion 772. The left bushing 706A is sized and configured to receive the fastener 739A to operably engage the left bushing 706A with the left inner arm 704A. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the sliding portion 772 of the left bushing 706A operably engages the inner surface 138 of the top platform 100. The left bushing 706A provides an attachment point between the left inner arm 704A and the top platform 100 that allows the lifting assembly 700 to slidably move left bushing 706A along the left side of the top platform 100 to vertically elevate the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200.

The right bushing 706B includes a sliding portion 782 that extends along the entire length of the right bushing 706B. The sliding portion 782 defines a sliding surface 783 that extends circumferentially about the sliding portion 782. The right bushing 706B is sized and configured to receive the fastener 759A that allows the right bushing 706B to operably engage with the right inner arm 704B. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the sliding portion 782 of the right bushing 706B operably engages the inner surface 138 of the top platform 100. The right bushing 706B provides an attachment point between the right inner arm 704B and the top platform 100 that allows the lifting assembly 700 to slidably move the right bushing 706B along the right side of the top platform 100 to vertically elevate the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200.

The left tube arm 708A includes a first end 792 and a second opposing end 794. The first end 792 of the left tube arm 708A is sized and configured to be received by the second opening 724 of the left outer arm 702A such that the left tube arm 708A operably engages the left outer arm 702A once the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the left tube arm 708A is press-fitted into the left outer arm 702A such that the left tube arm 708A is fixed to the left outer arm 702A. The second end 794 of the left tube arm 708A is sized and configured to be received by the left stabilizer 710A such that the left tube arm 708A operably engages to the left stabilizer 710A once the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. Further connection and engagement between the left tube arm 708A and the left stabilizer 710A are described in more detail below.

The right tube arm 708B includes a first end 796 and a second opposing end 798. The first end 796 of the right tube arm 708B is sized and configured to be received by the second opening 744 of the right outer arm 702B such that the right tube arm 708B operably engages the right outer arm 702B once the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 12, the right tube arm 708B is press-fitted into the right outer arm 702B such that the right tube arm 708B is fixed to the right outer arm 702B. The second end 798 of the right tube arm 708B is sized and configured to be received by the right stabilizer 7106 such that the right tube arm 708B operably engages to the right stabilizer 710B once the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. Further connection and engagement between the right tube arm 708B and the right stabilizer 7106 are described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, the left stabilizer 710A includes a first end 800 and a second opposing end 802. The left stabilizer 710A includes a central portion 804 that between the first and second ends 800, 802. The central portion 804 defines a first diameter 805 that is constant between the first and second ends 800, 802 of the left stabilizer 710A. The left stabilizer 710A also includes a lip 806 that extends radially from the central portion 804 and is disposed at the first end 800 of the left stabilizer 710A. The lip 806 defines a second diameter 807 that is greater than the first diameter 805 defined by the central portion 804. The lip 806 of the left stabilizer 710A guides the left stabilizer 710A along a right edge of the wall 320 of the first support plate 302 during the vertical elevation of the top bottom 100, which is described in more detail below. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the left stabilizer 710A is sized and configured to receive and house a portion of the left tube arm 708A measured from the second end 794 to a location between first and second ends 792, 794 of the left tube arm 708A when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. Additionally, the second end 794 of the left tube arm 708A passes through the left stabilizer 710A and into the lead nut apparatus 712 such that the left tube arm 708A operably engages the lead nut apparatus 712. Such connection between the left tube arm 708A and the lead nut apparatus 712 is described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, the right stabilizer 710B includes a first end 820 and a second opposing end 822. The right stabilizer 710B includes a central portion 824 that between the first and second ends 820, 822. The central portion 824 defines a first diameter 825 that is constant between the first and second ends 820, 822 of the right stabilizer 710B. The right stabilizer 710B also includes a lip 826 that extends radially from the central portion 824 and is disposed at the first end 820 of the right stabilizer 710B. The lip 826 defines a second diameter 827 that is greater than the first diameter 825 defined by the central portion 824. The lip 826 of the right stabilizer 7106 guides the right stabilizer 7106 along a left edge of the wall 340 of the second support plate 302 during the vertical elevation of the top bottom 100, which is described in more detail below. The right stabilizer 710B is sized and configured to receive and house a portion of the right tube arm 708B measured from the second end 798 to a location between first and second ends 796, 798 of the right tube arm 708B when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled. Additionally, the second end 798 of the right tube arm 708B passes through the right stabilizer 710B and into the lead nut apparatus 712 such that the right tube arm 708B operably engages the lead nut apparatus 712. Such connection between the right tube arm 708B and the lead nut apparatus 712 is described in more detail below.

The lead nut apparatus 712 includes a central body 840 that defines a front end 840A, a rear end 840B that opposes the front end 840A, a left end 840C, and a right end 840D that opposes that left end 840C. The central body 840 defines a first opening 842 disposed at the front end 840A, a second opening 844 disposed at the rear end 840B, a central passageway (not illustrated) that extends entirely through the central body 840 from the first opening 842 to the second opening 844. As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 10, the central body 840 also includes a threading 847 that extends from an interior wall 845 and is disposed from the first opening 842 to the second opening 844 in the central passageway.

The central body 840 includes a first tubular extension 848. The first tubular extension 848 operably engages the left side 840C of the central body 840. In the illustrated embodiment, the first tubular extension 848 is continuous with the central body 840 such that the first tubular extension 848 is integral with the central body 840. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the first tubular extension 848 also defines a first opening 850 that is disposed at the second end 848B of the first tubular extension 848. The first tubular extension 848 also defines a first chamber 852 that extends from the first opening 850 to a location between the first and second ends 848A, 848B of the first tubular extension 848. The first tubular extension 848 is sized and configured to operably engage a portion of the left tube arm 708A measured from the second end 794 of the left tube arm 708A to a location between the first and second ends 792, 794 of the left tube arm 708A. As such, the left tube arm 708A and the first tubular extension 848 operably engage one another to maintain the first tubular extension 848 inside the left tube arm 708A. In addition, the left tube arm 708A is sized and configured to be received by the left stabilizer 710A such that a portion of the first tubular extension 848 is disposed inside of the left stabilizer 710A. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the first tubular extension 848 is disposed inside of the left tube arm 708A, and the left tube arm 708A is disposed inside the left stabilizer 710A.

The left tube arm 708A may operably engage the first tubular extension 848 in any suitable arrangement to maintain the first tubular extension 848 inside of the left tube arm 708A. In this illustrated embodiment, first tubular extensions 848 is press-fitted inside of the left tube arm 708A to maintain the first tubular extension 848 within the left tube arm 708A. Examples of operably engaging a first tubular extension inside of a left tube arm include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a first tubular extension inside of a left tube arm.

The central body 840 includes a second tubular extension 854 that includes a first end 854A and a second opposing end 854B. The first end 854A of the second tubular extension 854 operably engages the right side 840D of the central body 840. In the illustrated embodiment, the second tubular extension 854 is continuous with the central body 840 such that the second tubular extension 854 is integral with the central body 840. The second tubular extension 854 also includes a second opening 856 that is disposed at the second end 854B of the second tubular extension 854. The second tubular extension 854 also includes a second chamber 858 that extends from the second opening 856 to a location between the first and second ends 854A, 854B of the second tubular extension 854. The second tubular extension 854 is sized and configured to operably engage a portion of the right tube arm 708B measured from the second end 798 of the right tube arm 708B to a location between the first and second ends 796, 798 of the right tube arm 708B. As such, the right tube arm 708B and the second tubular extension 854 operably engage one another to maintain the second tubular extension 854 inside of the right tube arm 708B. The right tube arm 708B is sized and configured to be received by the right stabilizer 710B such that a portion of the right tube arm 708B is disposed inside of the right stabilizer 7106. Upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10, the second tubular extension 854 is disposed inside of the right tube arm 708B, and the right tube arm 708B is disposed within the right stabilizer 710B.

The right tube arm 708B may operably engage the second tubular extension 854 in any suitable arrangement to maintain the second tubular extension 854 inside of the right tube arm 708B. In this illustrated embodiment, second tubular extensions 854 is press-fitted inside of the right tube arm 708B to maintain the second tubular extension 854 within the right tube arm 708B. Examples of operably engaging a second tubular extension inside of a right tube arm include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a second tubular extension inside of a right tube arm.

The lifting assembly also includes a lead screw 714. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 7, the lead screw 714 includes a shaft 870 that defines a first end 870A and a second opposing end 870B. The shaft 870 includes a flattened portion 872 that extends from the first end 870A to a location along the shaft 870 between the first and second ends 870A, 870B of the shaft 870. The flattened portion 872 is sized and configured to operably engage with the lifting adjustment knob 716 upon assembly of the adjustable desk 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting adjustment knob 716 may be configured to accept a fastener, such as fastener 873, to operably engage the lifting adjustment knob 716 to the flattened portion 872 of the shaft 870. The lifting adjustment knob 716 may operably engage the flattened portion 872 of the shaft 870 in any suitable arrangement. Examples of operably engaging a lifting adjustment knob to a flattened portion of a shaft include attaching, adhering, affixing, connecting, coupling, fusing, fixing, joining, press fitting, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging front and rear portions of a first support plate with a bottom platform.

The shaft 870 also includes a thread 874 that extends from the shaft 870 and is disposed circumferentially about the shaft 870 between the flattened portion 872 to a location between the first and second ends 870A, 870B of the shaft 870. The thread 874 is complementary to the threading 847 provided on the lead nut apparatus 712 such that the lead screw 714 is able to linearly transition the lead nut apparatus 712 and other components operably engaged to the lead nut apparatus 711 between the front and rear ends 200A, 200B of the bottom platform 200 to vertically elevate the top portion 100 away from the bottom platform 200. Such interaction between the lead nut apparatus 712 and the lead screw 714 is described in more detail below.

The shaft 870 also includes a blanked portion 876 that extends from the thread 874 to the second end 870B of the shaft 870. The shaft 870 also defines a groove 878 that extends radially into the shaft 870 on the blanked portion 876. The groove 878 is disposed between the thread 874 and the second end 870B of the shaft 870 and is closer to the second end 870B of the shaft 870. The groove 878 is sized and configured to receive and operably engage a flanged seal bearing 880 that is disposed in the rear portion 226 of the wall 220 of the bottom platform 200. The flanged seal bearing 880 allows the shaft 870 to rotatably move on the flanged seal bearing 880 at the groove 878 when the adjustable desk 10 is assembled.

The lifting assembly 700 also includes a spring 718 that is disposed about a portion of the shaft 870 of the lead screw 714 between the first end 870A of the shaft 870 to a location between the first and second ends 870A, 870B of the shaft 870. The spring 718 defines a first end 718A and an opposing second end 718B. Once the adjustable desk 10 is assembled, the first end 718A of the spring 718 is disposed at the front end 200A of the bottom platform 200 and abuts the inner surface 238 of the wall 220 at the frontal portion 222, and the second end 718B of the spring 718 is disposed between the front and rear ends 200A, 200B of the bottom portion 200 and abuts the front end 840A of the main body 840 of the lead nut apparatus 712. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring 718 is a compression spring that is biased to expand. When the adjustable desk 10 is assembled, the spring 718 provides assistance to the lifting assembly 700 to help vertically elevate the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200. In other words, the spring 718 asserts a linear force against the lead screw apparatus 712 and the front portion 222 of the wall 220 of the bottom portion 200 to help the user vertically elevate the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200.

The lifting assembly 700 of the adjustable desk 10 includes a collapsed position (FIG. 2) and an elevated position (FIG. 19-21). In the collapsed position, the central portion 122 of the top platform 100 is measured at a first distance D₁relative to the central portion 222 of the bottom platform 200. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the lead nut apparatus 712 is disposed closer to the front end 200A of the bottom platform 200 near the frontal portion 222. In the collapsed position, the left arm tube 708A directly contacts the second tab 330 of the first support plate 302 and the right arm tube 708B directly contacts the second tab 350 of the second support plate 304 to define the limits of the collapsed position. Moreover, the spring 718 defines a first length L₁measured from the first end 718A of the spring 718 to the second end 718B of the spring 718 when the adjustable desk 10 is in the collapsed position. As illustrated in FIG. 18, the first end 720A of the left outer arm 702A is measured at a first distance E₁from the second end 730B of the left inner arm 704A when the adjustable desk 10 is in the collapsed position. Similarly, the first end 740A of the right outer arm 702B is measured at a first distance F₁from the second end 750B of the right inner arm 704B when the adjustable desk 10 is in the collapsed position.

In order to transition the lifting assembly 700 of the adjustable desk 10 from the collapsed position to the elevated position, a user of the adjustable desk 10 must exert a force on the lifting adjustment knob 716. Specifically, the user exerts a rotational force on the lifting adjustment knob 716 in the clockwise direction to vertically elevate the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200. Upon rotation of the lifting adjustment knob 716, the lead screw 714 rotates along a fifth axis of rotation X₅defined along the shaft 870 of the lead screw 714 that extends from the first end 870A of the shaft 870 to the second end 870B of the shaft 870. The lead screw 714 freely rotates via the groove 878 being disposed inside the flanged seal bearing 880 at the second end 870B of the shaft 870. Such configuration allows a user to continuously rotate lead screw 714 to transition the lead screw apparatus 712. As the lead screw 714 rotates, the lead nut apparatus 712 transitions linearly towards the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200 and away from the front end 200A of the bottom platform 200 via the complementary configuration between the threading 847 of the lead nut apparatus 712 and the thread 874 of the lead screw 714. As the lead nut apparatus 712 transitions towards the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200, each of the left tube arm 708A, right tube arm 708B, left stabilizer 710A, and right stabilizer 710B transitions towards the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200 given the associated components are operably engaged to the lead nut apparatus 712. In addition, the second ends 720B, 740B of the left and right outer arms 702A, 702B transition with the lead nut apparatus 712 due to the left and right outer arms 702A, 702B being operably engaged with the left and right tube arms 708A, 708B.

As the lifting assembly 700 transitions from the collapsed position to the elevated position, the lips 806, 826 of the left and right stabilizers 710A, 7106 directly interface with and contact the central portion 222 of the bottom platform 200 inside the first and second slots 246, 248 and the central portions 322, 342 of the first and second support plates 302, 304 to maintain the position of the lead nut apparatus 712 during transition. Specifically, the lip 806 of the left stabilizer 710A interfaces with and contacts the central portion 222 of the bottom platform 200 inside the first slot 246 and an outer edge of the central portion 322 near the right end 302D of the first support plate 302 to maintain the position of the lead nut apparatus 712 during transition. Similarly, the lip 826 of the right stabilizer 7106 interfaces with and contacts the central portion 222 of the bottom platform 200 inside the second slot 248 and an outer edge of the central portion 342 near the left end 304C of the second support plate 304 to maintain the position of the lead nut apparatus 712 during transition.

As the lead screw apparatus 712 transitions towards the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200, the left outer and inner arms 702A, 704A and the right outer and inner arms 702B, 704B collectively create a scissor-lifting mechanism to vertically elevate the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200. As the second end 720B of the left outer arm 702A transitions towards the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200, the second end 720B of the left outer arm 702A exerts a linearly force against the left inner arm 702B directed towards the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200. The exerted force of the left outer arm 702A onto the left inner arm 704A is created via the fastener 760A connecting the left outer arm 702A with the left inner arm 704A. With this, any movement asserted on the left outer arm 702A via the lead nut apparatus 712 is communicated to the left inner arm 702B. Similarly, as the second end 740B of the left outer arm 702B transitions towards the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200, the second end 740B of the right outer arm 702B exerts a linearly force against the right inner arm 704B directed towards the rear end 200B of the bottom platform 200. The exerted force of the right outer arm 702B onto the right inner arm 704B is created via the fastener 762A connecting the right outer arm 702B with the right inner arm 704B. With this, any movement asserted on the right outer arm 702B via the lead nut apparatus 712 is communicated to the right inner arm 704B.

To help prevent resistance while vertically elevating the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200, the left and right bushings 706A, 706B directly interface with and contact the inner surface 138 of the top platform 100 to slideably move the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200. Specifically, the left bushing 706A interfaces with and contacts the inner surface 138 at the left end 100C of the top platform 100 to slideably move the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200. Similarly, the right bushing 706B interfaces with and contacts the inner surface 138 at the right end 100D of the top platform 100 to slideably move the top platform 100 away from the bottom platform 200.

In the desired elevation position, the user ceases rotation of the lifting adjustment knob 716. As illustrated in FIGS. 15-17, the lifting assembly 700 of the adjustable desk 10 reaches its maximum elevated position. In the elevated position, the central portion 122 of the top platform 100 is measured at a second distance D₂relative to the central portion 222 of the bottom platform 200; the second distance D₂is greater than the first distance D₁in the collapsed position. In addition, the lead nut apparatus 712 is disposed closer to the rear end 200A of the bottom platform 200 near the rear portion 224. In the maximum elevated position, the left arm tube 708A directly contacts the first tab 328 of the first support plate 302 and the right arm tube 708B directly contacts the first tab 348 of the second support plate 304 to define the limits of the maximum elevated position. Moreover, the spring 718 defines a second length L₂measured from the first end 718A of the spring 718 to the second end 718B of the spring 718 when the adjustable desk 10 is in the elevated position. The second length L₂of the spring 718 in the elevated position is greater than the first length L₁of the spring 718 in the collapsed position. Furthermore, the first end 720A of the left outer arm 702A is measured at a second distance E₂from the second end 730B of the left inner arm 704A when the adjustable desk 10 is in the elevated position. Similarly, the first end 740A of the right outer arm 702B is measured at a second distance F₂from the second end 750B of the right inner arm 704B when the adjustable desk 10 is in the elevated position. The second distance E₂is less than the first distance E₁, and the second distance F₂is less than the first distance F₁.

In addition, the top platform 100 may be vertically elevated at any suitable distance away from the bottom platform 200 between the collapsed position (as illustrated in FIG. 1) and the maximum elevated position (as illustrated in FIGS. 15-17) due to the configuration between the lead nut apparatus 712, the lead screw 714, and the spring 718. An exemplary range in which the top platform 100 may be disposed from the bottom platform 200 is from about 3.75 inches up to about 10 inches In addition, the lead screw apparatus 712 may be disposed at any suitable location between the first tabs 328, 348 of the first and second support plates 302, 304 and the second tabs 330, 350 of the first and second support plates 302, 304 as determined by the user. The determination of elevation for the top platform 100 made by the user may be dependent on the height of the user, the type of activity being used on the adjustable desk by the user, and other suitable determinations that are considered useful for making the adjustable desk more comfortable and ergonomic for the user.

Furthermore, the adjustable desk 10 may be disposed at any suitable width between the collapsed position (as illustrated in FIG. 1) and the maximum expanded position (as illustrated in FIGS. 15-17) when measured from the left portion 526 of the first pivot bracket 502 to the right portion 546 of the second pivot bracket 504. An exemplary range of width for an adjustable desk measured from a left portion of a first pivot plate to a right portion of a second pivot plate is from about 30.5 inches up to about 44. The determination of a suitable width for the adjustable desk 10 is dependent upon the overall width of the exercise machine.

FIG. 29 illustrates a method 1000 of exercising while working on a support structure. An initial step 1002 of method 1000 comprises introducing an adjustable desk to at least one arm of the support structure, the adjustable desk comprises: a frame; a bottom platform operably engaged with the frame and defining a first substantially planar wall; and a top platform operably engaged with the frame and defining a second substantially planer wall, wherein the top platform is provided at a first height above the bottom platform measured between the first substantially planar wall and the second substantially planar wall. Another step 1004 comprises adjusting at least one pivot bracket of a pivoting assembly of the frame between a first position and a second position. Another step 1006 comprises engaging the at least one pivot bracket of the pivoting assembly of the frame with the at least one arm of the support structure. Another step 1008 comprises engaging at least one clamp of a mounting assembly of the frame with the at least one arm of the support structure.

In an exemplary embodiment, method 1000 may include additional steps of exercising while working on a support structure. An optional step may include that the step of engaging at least one clamp of a mounting assembly of the desk with the at least one arm of the support structure further includes that the at least one clamp is positioned below the bottom platform. Another optional step may include that the step of engaging at least one clamp of a mounting assembly of the desk with the at least one arm of the support structure further includes that the at least one clamp is positioned above the bottom platform. Another optional step may include moving the top platform, via a lifting assembly of the frame, to a second height greater than the first height relative to the bottom platform. Another optional step may include pivoting the top platform and the bottom platform, via a pivot assembly of the frame, between a leveled position and a tilted position relative to the at least one pivot bracket. Another optional step may include adjusting a width of the frame, via an expansion assembly of frame, between a collapsed position to an expanded position.

Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

The articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.” The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims (if at all), should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc. As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

When a feature or element is herein referred to as being “on” another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and/or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly on” another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. It will also be understood that, when a feature or element is referred to as being “connected”, “attached” or “coupled” to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached” or “directly coupled” to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown can apply to other embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent” another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

Spatially relative terms, such as “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper”, “above”, “behind”, “in front of”, and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “lateral”, “transverse”, “longitudinal”, and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.

Although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various features/elements, these features/elements should not be limited by these terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature/element from another feature/element. Thus, a first feature/element discussed herein could be termed a second feature/element, and similarly, a second feature/element discussed herein could be termed a first feature/element without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

An embodiment is an implementation or example of the present disclosure. Reference in the specification to “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “one particular embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” or “other embodiments,” or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the invention. The various appearances “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “one particular embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” or “other embodiments,” or the like, are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiments.

If this specification states a component, feature, structure, or characteristic “may”, “might”, or “could” be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included. If the specification or claim refers to “a” or “an” element, that does not mean there is only one of the element. If the specification or claims refer to “an additional” element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element.

As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word “about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” or “approximately” may be used when describing magnitude and/or position to indicate that the value and/or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and/or positions. For example, a numeric value may have a value that is +/−0.1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−1% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−2% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−5% of the stated value (or range of values), +/−10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein.

Additionally, the method of performing the present disclosure may occur in a sequence different than those described herein. Accordingly, no sequence of the method should be read as a limitation unless explicitly stated. It is recognizable that performing some of the steps of the method in a different order could achieve a similar result.

In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.

Moreover, the description and illustration of various embodiments of the disclosure are examples and the disclosure is not limited to the exact details shown or described.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR USING AN ADJUSTABLE DESK

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