Adjustable sit-stand tables in office settings: development of a system for controlled posture changes

Sit-stand tables have been suggested to increase variation and prevent disorders among office workers. However, it is a challenge to ensure their proper use. Therefore, we developed a system reminding workers to change the height of their sit-stand table at regular intervals. The system consists of three devices: (1) table legs that can be controlled in height by an electric drive; (2) remote control for basic settings; (3) remote control with software allowing the user an ongoing interaction with the table. The entire system is controlled through the worker’s computer, and can be programmed to rise and lower the desk at pre-set intervals. Furthermore, the software stores two variables describing the use of the table during a full workday, i.e. time proportions of each table position, and the frequency of position changes.