World’s First AI-Powered Smart Desk Promotes Accessibility
People with spinal cord injuries or disease (SCI/D) no longer have to wheel over to their desks. Instead, they can let a new desk wheel over to them.
The world’s first artificial intelligence (AI)-powered ergonomic smart desk, the ErgoFlex Desk debuted at the gigantic consumer electronics show known as CES this week at the Venetian Convention and Expo Center in Las Vegas.
Designed by Evolution X Inc. founder and CEO Victor Hernandez, the ErgoFlex Desk helps those with mobility issues, including people with SCI/D, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other disabilities.
The ErgoFlex Desk premium model has plenty of unique and interesting features. They include its patented electric-motored sit-stand mode, which raises and lowers the desk; tilt mode, which can go up to 65 degrees so it’s easier use for an artist;
Mecanum omnidirectional wheels that can move over carpet and let the desk glide over to a user; built-in safety sensors to avoid collisions; and the ability to fold up to take up less space when it’s not being used.
And that’s just the beginning.
With the ErgoFlex Desk’s premium and pro models being voice-controlled and AI-powered, users can use either the AI-operated onboard device or download the ErgoFlex Desk mobile app and then can adjust the desk’s settings to their liking using their voice.
Additionally, multiple outlet and USB ports are located on each side of the desk to plug in accessories. A circular wireless charger, which works with any phone, is on the left side, and there are optional add-ons like single- or double-arm mounts for one or two monitors, light-emitting diode (LED) lights that can boost focus or be synced with music and more.
Plus, the desk can be multifunctional. Not only can it be used as a work desk, but it can also be used as a dining table.
A 2007 California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, graduate, Hernandez has worked on developing the ErgoFlex Desk for the past seven years, originally coming up with the idea in college. But it’s his 17-year-old niece, who was born with muscular dystrophy, who really spurred the project. He wanted to help her.
Frustrated with high price points of other standup desks, Hernandez decided to build one himself and to help others.
“And this task itself is to allow them to be productive, to be creative and to have the freedom to really become the people, the professionals that they want to be when they grow up,” says the 43-year-old Hernandez, whose company is based in Orange County, Calif. “And so, for me, it’s very personal to be able to give that opportunity for people like my niece.”
There are three versions of the ErgoFlex Desk, including base ($3,000), pro ($4,000) and premium ($5,000) models, though people with SCI/D would likely opt for the pro or premium models. Both have the motorized omnidirectional wheels, AI voice and gesture control and activity tracking and health insights.
For more information on the ErgoFlex Desk or to order one, visit ergoflexdesk.com, email vico@ergoflexdesk.com or call 949-436-9154.
