Over the last few days, I've spent considerable time understanding the mechanics behind sit-stand desks. The UpDown PRO Desk is, overall, the most cherished addition to my workspace. So, I began wondering how the combined motors and other elements work together.
In this blog, I'll break down how electric standing desks work from my research and experiments. While they're not overly complicated, how the mechanical and electrical parts combine is fascinating.
What is an Electric Standing Desk?
An electric sit-stand desk adjusts to a sitting or standing position with the help of an electric motor, which powers the adjustment mechanism. So, unlike manual sit-stand desks, you do not need to exert energy to adjust the desk height. You can raise or lower your standing desk to a desired height with a button or through a digital control panel.
The control panel often comes with additional features, such as memory settings, to save your preferred heights for quick adjustments. Some models have timers that remind you to change posture. Electric sit-stand desks promote more regular movement than manual desks due to their ease of adjustment, reducing the risks associated with sedentary behaviours.
How Electric Sit-Stand Desks Work
Here's a closer look at how these desks operate, focusing on the differences between single-motor, dual-motor, and smart-control operations.
#1 - Single-motor operation
Single-motor desks use one electric motor to drive the movement of the desk. When you press a button, the motor is activated, and its rotation is transmitted to the desk's legs through a series of gears and rods.
In most single-motor sit-stand desk designs, a central drive shaft extends from the motor to both legs. The mechanical link ensures that the desk rises or lowers uniformly, even though only one motor is involved.
All electric sit-stand desks have a control box, the central command centre for the desk's operations. The single motor is connected to the box, which regulates its power and direction based on your input.
While affordable, single-motor have limitations in terms of lifting speed, weight capacity, and smoothness of motion compared to dual-motor desks. I only recommend them if you’re shopping on a budget.
#2 - Dual-motor operation
Dual-motor desks have two motors, one in each leg. Both are activated simultaneously at each command. Unlike single-motor desks, the two motors work independently to lift or lower their side of the desk, providing a more robust and stable lifting mechanism.
Dual-motor sit-stand desks use a control box that operates similarly to single-motor desks. The only difference is that the control box in a dual-motor desk manages two motors instead of one.
As a result, dual-motor desks offer faster height adjustments, higher weight capacities, and a longer lifespan due to the workload distribution between two motors. They, however, have a higher price point.
#3 - Smart-control operation
Smart-control sit-stand desks are the latest advancement. They work similarly to the other desk types, using either single-motor or dual-motor configurations. However, these desks have intelligent features and enhanced interaction options for convenience and ease of use.
For instance, most smart-control desks are connected to smartphone apps via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for remote control and customisation. So, you can adjust your desk height from your phone or track your sit-stand habits.
Others have built-in features like reminders to stand or sit after a certain period, touchscreen controls instead of traditional push buttons, and energy efficiency features like sleep and auto-power off mode.
Other Types of Standing Desks
In addition to electric sit-stand desks, you’ll find several types of standing desks on the Australian market, each with a unique operating mechanism. Here's an overview of the most common alternatives:
Standing Desk Converters
Desk converters are placed on top of traditional sitting desks to convert them into sit-stand desks. They can be manually or electrically adjusted to raise a laptop or monitor to a comfortable standing height. Some models are fixed, while others offer various levels of height adjustment.
Manual Sit-Stand Desks
These desks use a manual crank to adjust the desk height. You turn the crank to raise or lower the desk. While they require more physical effort than electric desks, they are more affordable and don't require electricity.
Some manual sit-stand desks use a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder to adjust the desk height. You activate the cylinder by engaging a lever, making it easy to lift or lower the desk with minimal effort.
Fixed Standing Desks
These are non-adjustable desks set at standing height. I recommend them only if your work requires you to stand without changing positions. They are typically more stable and less expensive.
FAQs
What is the mechanism of a standing desk?
The mechanism of a standing desk varies depending on its type.
- Electric sit-stand desks use motors (single or dual) to adjust the desk height electronically via a control panel.
- Manual sit-stand desks rely on a hand-crank or a pneumatic lift system that you operate to raise or lower the desk.
- Fixed standing desks have a static height and do not adjust, while standing desk converters can be manually or electrically lifted.
What is the science behind standing desks?
The science behind standing desks is rooted in ergonomics and physiology. It focuses on reducing the sedentary behaviour associated with prolonged sitting. The research suggests that alternating between sitting and standing helps alleviate musculoskeletal strain, improves circulation, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular issues.
How is a standing desk powered?
A standing desk is powered by electricity when it features an adjustable height mechanism with motors. Some models use battery power to operate and maintain functionality. On the other hand, manual standing desks do not require power and are adjusted by hand using a crank or a pneumatic system that relies on human force or a gas spring, respectively.
Darren Sherwood
Summary
Electric standing desks operate through a motorised mechanism to adjust your standing desk height effortlessly. They feature single or dual electric motors that drive the gears connected to the desk legs.
Through movement, flexibility, and ease of use, electric sit-stand desks significantly contribute to better ergonomics, reduced discomfort, and enhanced productivity and well-being in the workplace.
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