ENERGY-GENERATING OFFICE TABLE WITH HEALTH BENEFITS

Abstract

The present invention provides an office table (101) with an integrated energy-generating mechanism (102) is disclosed. The table incorporates a pedal system (102a) similar to a sewing machine, allowing the user to generate kinetic energy through foot movements. A conversion unit (102b) transforms this energy into electrical energy, which can be used to recharge devices (104) or power an automated leg movement mechanism (105). The invention promotes energy sustainability (106) and user health (107) by encouraging physical activity during work hours.

Specification

Description:A multifunctional invention known as "Office Table with Benefits to Health from Energy Generating Office Table" integrates energy generation along with device charging and health-promoting characteristics in a standard office table. Here below are the several components and functionalities of the invention, mentioned by their respective embodiment numbers.

Table Structure (101): The invention itself is a safe and ergonomic office table (101). All dimensions of the table correspond to standard furniture in an office. Its length is from 120 to 150 cm, width - from 60 to 75 cm, height - from 75 to 80 cm. The table top is manufactured from long-lasting and stiff materials, such as processed wood or high-pressure laminate.

The frame of the table is made of robust material, for example steel or aluminium alloys, which accommodates stability and support for embedded mechanisms. The legs of the table are defined as hosting the pedal system along with parts associated with it and still retaining a minimalist look.

Energy-Generating Mechanism (102): At the heart of the invention is the energy-generating mechanism (102), which consists of several interconnected components:
Pedal System (102a): The pedal system (102a) is inspired by the foot-operated mechanism found in sewing machines. It is positioned in the leg space of the table, allowing the user to comfortably operate it while seated. The system comprises:
- Two-foot pedals, each measuring approximately 25 cm in length and 10 cm in width
- A flywheel connected to the pedals via a belt or chain drive
- Adjustable resistance mechanism to customize the pedalling effort

The pedals feature a non-slip surface and an ergonomic shape which fits pleasantly when in use for considerable periods. The resistance mechanism of the exercise bike allows a user to increase or decrease his effort in pedalling, offering degrees of resistance for differing clients' physical fitness and preference.

Kinetic Energy Conversion Unit (102b): The kinetic energy conversion unit (102b) is responsible for transforming the mechanical energy from the pedal system into electrical energy. This unit consists of:
- A generator (alternator) connected to the flywheel
- A voltage regulator to stabilize the electrical output
- A rectifier to convert AC to DC current

The generator is carefully selected to maximize energy conversion efficiency, typically achieving a conversion rate of 70-80%. The voltage regulator ensures a stable output suitable for charging devices and powering the table's functions.

Energy Storage System (103): To manage the generated energy, the table incorporates an energy storage system (103) comprising:
- A lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of 5000-10000 mAh
- A battery management system (BMS) to monitor charging and discharging
- Overcharge and over-discharge protection circuits

The battery pack allows for energy storage during periods of low consumption, ensuring a consistent power supply for the table's functions and device charging.

Device Charging Capability (104): The table features multiple charging ports to utilize the generated energy for powering electronic devices (104). These include:
- 2-3 USB-A ports (5V, 2.4A each)
- 1-2 USB-C ports (5V/9V/12V, up to 18W)
- 1 Qi-certified wireless charging pad integrated into the table surface

Charging ports have been placed strategically along the edge of the table and are quite accessible. A wireless charging pad is secretly incorporated into the tabletop - the indication of proper placement within it is made by the symbol above.

Automated Leg Movement Mechanism (105): To promote user health during periods of inactivity, the table incorporates an automated leg movement mechanism (105). This system consists of:
- Two padded leg rests connected to linear actuators
- A microcontroller to manage the movement patterns
- Sensors to detect user presence and ensure safe operation

The leg rests are designed to comfortably support the user's calves. The linear actuators provide gentle, rhythmic movements to promote blood circulation. The microcontroller offers various movement patterns and intensities, which can be customized via the user interface.

Energy Sustainability Features (106): The invention incorporates several features to maximize energy sustainability:
- An energy management system that prioritizes power distribution based on usage and battery levels
- LED indicators displaying real-time energy generation and consumption
- Power-saving modes for all electronic components when not in use

These features ensure efficient use of the generated energy and promote user awareness of their energy production and consumption.

Health Monitoring and Promotion (107): To encourage and track health benefits, the table includes:
- A pedal rotation sensor to measure user activity
- A calorie burn estimation algorithm based on user input (weight, age) and pedaling intensity
- Integration capabilities with popular fitness tracking apps via Bluetooth

These features allow users to monitor their activity levels and health benefits derived from using the table.

User Interface: The table is equipped with a user interface to control and monitor its various functions:
- A small, energy-efficient OLED display integrated into the table surface
- Touch-sensitive controls for adjusting settings
- A companion mobile app for extended functionality and data tracking

The interface provides real-time information on energy generation, device charging status, health metrics, and allows users to control the automated leg movement mechanism.

Microprocessor Functionality: The table's operations are coordinated by a low-power microprocessor, which performs the following functions:
1. Monitors energy generation from the pedal system
2. Manages power distribution to charging ports and internal systems
3. Controls the automated leg movement mechanism
4. Processes data from various sensors (pedal rotation, user presence)
5. Calculates health metrics (e.g., estimated calories burned)
6. Manages the user interface, including display updates and touch input
7. Handles communication with the companion mobile app via Bluetooth
8. Implements power-saving algorithms to optimize energy usage

The microprocessor is programmed to operate efficiently, consuming minimal power while ensuring smooth functionality of all table features.

The Energy-Generating Office Table with Health Benefits represents a significant advancement in office furniture design, seamlessly integrating sustainable energy generation with health-promoting features. Its innovative approach to harnessing user-generated kinetic energy addresses both environmental concerns and the health challenges associated with sedentary office work.

Method of Performing the Invention
The method of performing the invention involves the following steps:
• Assemble the office table (101) using high-quality, durable materials that can withstand daily use while maintaining a professional appearance.
• Install the pedal system (102a) in the leg space of the table, ensuring smooth operation and proper alignment with the flywheel. Use a belt drive mechanism for efficient power transfer and quiet operation.
• Connect the kinetic energy conversion unit (102b) to the pedal system. Employ a high-efficiency generator with a conversion rate of at least 80% to maximize energy output.
• Implement an energy storage system (103) using the latest lithium-ion battery technology, with a capacity of 10,000 mAh for optimal energy storage and distribution.
• Integrate charging ports (104) along the edge of the table for easy access. Include two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, and one Qi-certified wireless charging pad on the table surface.
• Install the automated leg movement mechanism (105) using quiet, energy-efficient linear actuators. Program various movement patterns to cater to different user preferences and health needs.
• Incorporate energy sustainability features (106) by implementing an intelligent energy management system that prioritizes power distribution based on usage patterns and battery levels
• Integrate health monitoring and promotion features (107) using accurate sensors and well-calibrated algorithms. Ensure compatibility with popular fitness tracking apps to encourage user engagement.
• Design an intuitive user interface with a low-power OLED display seamlessly integrated into the table surface. Develop a companion mobile app with extended functionality for a comprehensive user experience.
• Program the microprocessor to efficiently manage all table functions, implementing power-saving algorithms to optimize energy usage without compromising performance.
• Conduct thorough testing to ensure all components work harmoniously, focusing on energy efficiency, user comfort, and long-term durability.
• Provide clear user instructions and guidelines to maximize the benefits of the table's features and promote consistent use of the energy-generating and health-promoting functions.
, Claims:1. An energy-generating office table comprising:
a table structure (101);
an energy-generating mechanism (102) integrated within said table structure, comprising:
a pedal system (102a) positioned in the leg space of the table;
a kinetic energy conversion unit (102b) connected to said pedal system;
an energy storage system (103);
multiple charging ports (104) for electronic devices;
an automated leg movement mechanism (105);
energy sustainability features (106);
health monitoring and promotion features (107);
a microprocessor for coordinating operations of said table; and
a user interface;
wherein said user interface comprises an OLED display integrated into the table surface; touch-sensitive controls; and a companion mobile app.

2. The energy-generating office table of claim 1, wherein said pedal system (102a) comprises:
two-foot pedals;
a flywheel connected to said pedals via a drive mechanism; and
an adjustable resistance mechanism.

3. The energy-generating office table of claim 1, wherein said kinetic energy conversion unit (102b) comprises:
a generator connected to said flywheel;
a voltage regulator; and
a rectifier.

4. The energy-generating office table of claim 1, wherein said energy storage system (103) comprises:
a lithium-ion battery pack;
a battery management system; and
protection circuits for overcharge and over-discharge.

5. The energy-generating office table of claim 1, wherein said charging ports (104) comprise:
USB-A ports;
USB-C ports; and
a Qi-certified wireless charging pad integrated into the table surface.

6. The energy-generating office table of claim 1, wherein said automated leg movement mechanism (105) comprises:
two padded leg rests connected to linear actuators;
a microcontroller for managing movement patterns; and
sensors for detecting user presence.

7. The energy-generating office table of claim 1, wherein said energy sustainability features (106) comprise:
an energy management system;
LED indicators displaying real-time energy generation and consumption; and
power-saving modes for electronic components.

8. The energy-generating office table of claim 1, wherein said health monitoring and promotion features (107) comprise:
a pedal rotation sensor;
a calorie burn estimation algorithm; and
integration capabilities with fitness tracking apps.

9. The energy-generating office table of claim 1, wherein said microprocessor performs functions including:
monitoring energy generation;
managing power distribution;
controlling the automated leg movement mechanism;
processing sensor data;
calculating health metrics;
managing the user interface;
handling communication with a mobile app; and
implementing power-saving algorithms.

10. A method of generating and utilizing energy in an office environment, comprising:
providing an office table with an integrated energy-generating mechanism;
converting kinetic energy from user pedalling into electrical energy;
storing said electrical energy in a battery system;
utilizing said stored energy for charging electronic devices and powering table functions;
promoting user health through an automated leg movement mechanism; and
monitoring and displaying energy generation and health metrics via a user interface.

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