Electronically Controlled Monitor Stand

What it does

This motorized monitor stand adjusts height, tilt, and rotation with DC and servo motors. It stores two preset positions, supports manual control, and shows real-time status via LCD. It prevents overdrive and retains position even during a power outage.

Your inspiration

Our idea began with a team brainstorming session, where computers and accessories emerged as a shared interest. We discussed how manual monitor stands are inconvenient—often hard to fine-tune and prone to sagging. Inspired by automotive technology, we envisioned an electronically controlled solution. The adjustment dial was modeled after the gear selector in Genesis vehicles, and the preset buttons were inspired by seat memory functions. As workspace personalization grows, we saw this as both a meaningful problem to solve and a valuable design opportunity. We believe this approach brings intuitive, user-friendly control to everyday technology

How it works

This system uses an ESP32 microcontroller to control two DC motors and three servo motors for automated adjustment of the monitor’s height, tilt, and rotation. Users can switch between two preset positions or adjust the monitor manually with directional buttons. DC motors operate a lifting mechanism with top and bottom limit switches to prevent overtravel, while servo motors handle tilt and rotation via a gear system. Position data is stored in EEPROM and restored after power loss. The system holds its position using motor braking and structural design, returning to the saved orientation when power resumes. An LCD shows real-time status, and LCD with safety logic prevent excessive motion. The external casing, supporting the lift unit, was 3D-modeled, printed, and assembled. It houses internal electronics and motors, offering a modular structure and easy maintenance. The prototype was fully assembled and tested to verify hardware and control system integration.

Design process

This project began during a team brainstorming session, where computers and accessories emerged as a shared interest. We found that manual monitor stands often required constant adjustment and tended to sag over time. Inspired by memory seats and dial gear selectors in cars, we planned an electronically controlled monitor stand with presets. We defined key features: preset memory, manual control, power-off position retention, limit switches, and LCD feedback. Using an ESP32 MCU, we designed circuits and software to control two DC motors and three servos. During development, we faced issues like DC motors losing sync, servo alignment causing structural instability, and malfunctioning limit switches. We improved reliability by redesigning the circuit, repositioning switches, and reinforcing the frame. EEPROM logic was rewritten to fix data loss after outages, and a debug mode was added to the LCD. The external case, 3D-modeled and printed, was redesigned multiple times due to internal interference. Through repeated testing, we refined both structure and control logic. The prototype is fully assembled and functionally validated. We faced failures we didn’t expect—some too daunting to approach—but through trial and research, we overcame them and keep improving.

How it is different

The core originality of our design lies in making an electronically controlled monitor stand accessible to everyday users. Most existing monitor arms are manually adjusted, while powered models are limited to industrial or medical use and are often expensive. In contrast, our product features a user-friendly preset system and dial-style controls inspired by automotive UX, allowing users to recall optimal screen positions at the push of a button. The system retains its position during power loss and restores it automatically—rare in similar products. It supports both manual and automatic control, offers real-time LCD feedback, and includes built-in safety logic. The modular case, fully 3D-modeled and printed, allows efficient assembly and customization. Rather than focusing on a single feature, our design integrates user experience, motor control, and mechanical design into one cohesive solution not commonly seen in this product category.

Future plans

Our current prototype is the first version of our concept. The next version will improve usability, maintenance, and manufacturability. The 3D-printed case will be upgraded to aluminum. The design will allow rear access with four screws for easier servicing. PCBs will include power LEDs to reduce errors. The LCD will be replaced with a segmented LED display for cost and design efficiency. Hex screws will be changed to cross-head screws for easier access with common tools. These updates focus on real-world use and repairability.

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