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Computer workstation

Personal computers are becoming increasingly integrated into the commercial economy and also utilized by private consumers for their own purposes and also to interface with the commercial economy. Workstations for computer equipment are well known. Known computer workstations generally comprise a plurality of distinct, fixedly mounted horizontal surfaces for supporting a computer monitor, a computer keyboard, a central processing unit and a computer printer. The workstation is tending to become a communication interface between the user and the machine, or the workstation, or even between each user, when the workstations are connected in a network. As the use of computers continues to become more necessary, related equipment which allows for the more efficient use of computers becomes more important. Computer workstations allow multiple pieces of equipment to be in close proximity for easier use. Computers are readily accommodated in workstation areas typically formed by systems furniture and, in particular, by wall panels that define distinct workstation areas. With the development and growth of the use of computers, a great number of accessory devices have been developed to enhance their basic effectiveness as well as to make the working environment of the computer operator more pleasant and efficient. Ergonomics and other practical considerations require that computers be placed on a desk or other suitable working environmental furniture or structure. A number of workstations have been designed to make computer use more convenient and to make the time employees spend using their computers more ergonomic. The science of ergonomics deals with the design of equipment and tools so as to make the equipment and tools easily used by the human user without undue fatigue. The ease of such use as well as the minimizing of strain and fatigue involves designing the tool and equipment to maintain proper orientation with the human user. For example, various workstations have been designed which allow the user to rotate the computer output device to remain in their line of sight. These devices can allow the user to comfortably view the computer monitor whether they are sitting or standing. A major consideration in the use of computer workstations including word processing equipment, is the provision of an ergonomically correct support or holder for documents which are being viewed by the operator of the workstation. Document holders have been developed which are adapted to be placed to one side of the keyboard and video monitor. Turing specifically to computer workstations and their monitor and keyboard supports of the type used in classrooms and in offices, the application of ergonomic design consisted of an attempt to provide compatibility of the monitor support with an user of normal or average anthropometric values. Adjustability of the video display screens consisted usually of making the screen tiltable to provide a good orientation of the video screen to the face of the user.

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