The Idea:
I wanted to make a standing desk that was counter-weighted for the adjustment. I saw something online that used a scissor style counter-weight and thought that I could make a more compact version by using a pulley system and hiding the weights near the frame. Currently I want a box rolling up and down on a pipe filled with gravel for the counter-weight. Each leg would have a box on the pipe-roller system. I thought that this would be the simplest for adjusting the weight and to dial in the perfect counter-weight.
Demonstrating the range of motion.
The "Frame" Prototype:
Made out of pine and screws for easier dis-assembly. The final version will be made out of hardwoods. Also, the rolling system was not put in place on this. I felt that the extra weight would throw everything even more out of square on this build. I was mainly looking for scale and to identify any unforeseen issues that didn't come out with cardboard.
I had every intention to use wire for connecting the weights to the desktop but I really like the way the rope looks. I'm still thinking through the potential amount of stretching that will occur and if the headache will be worth the aesthetics.
The Weight System Prototype:
I knew I had to attach the weight box to something with rollers on it and then have a "counter" roller on the other side of the pipe. Here is my first flushed out idea:
I thought this was a good start, but had still to counter act the potential of the box rotating on the pipe and causing issues.
These are just press fit together. 3/4" Birch plywood with dado's that will be trimmed to size when the size comes to fruition.
I want to use roller blade wheels but at the time Craigslist didn't have any and it's not garage sale season so I made a bunch with a hole saw. Friction may become an issue... we'll see, but these we're free.
The general idea - The pipe would slide on the wheels. Now to do this 14 more times!
It's hip to be square!
I used a router template to cut the wheel slots. Quicker and more accurate then drilling and cutting the the waste between with a jig saw.
Needed slots for the rods that the wheels spin on. Here I am drilling the pilot holes on my tiny drill press.
And finishing with a hand drill.
This is as far as I have got in the process so far. My big concerns are friction created by the wheels and the potential "twisting" of the box around the pole.
I plan to continue this project during my next break in classes as I do have a need for this desk.
Thanks for looking!
Update - 3/8/16
I built boxes to hold weigh and attached one of the roller assemblies to it. I also constructed a testing rig for it.
FRICTION FEARS CONFIRMED!
I had to get rid of the wooden wheels and instead I've put in some cheap skateboard bearings. But the spacing is completely off on the roller assembly.
I want to keep the roller assemblies through the prototype process so I'll have to design and print something.
I am currently waiting on the correct heating element for my heated bed. I have a Printrbot Simple Metal but it needs a heated bed to get some flat prints. The kit I purchased came with the wrong heating element so hopefully they have quick shipping. Nothing against Printrbot, they have excellent customer service and are quick to resolve the issue. I thoroughly enjoy my Simple Metal an dwould recommend it to anyone in the market for a high definition 3D printer with a hobbyists budget.
'Till next time.
