Patents by Inventor Robert Curtis Crigler

Robert Curtis Crigler has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6370099
    Abstract: A notebook computer has a base with a pivotable display monitor. The base contains a disc drive for manipulating a disc, such as a CD or DVD. The disc drive has a manually-operated, rotating guard on a side edge of the base. Prior to the insertion of a disc, the guard is substantially retracted within the base. To load a disc into the disc drive, the guard is rotated about five degrees to a load/unload position and the disc is inserted into a slot. In the fully inserted position, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches of the disc will extend beyond the side edge of the base. The guard is rotated to its fully closed and locked position. Closing the guard causes the disc drive to engage and interface with the disc. The guard and the disc protrude from the side of the base during operation, but the disc is completely enclosed. The disc is removed by pushing an eject button and rotating the guard to its original position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Curtis Crigler
  • Patent number: 6238026
    Abstract: A system for mounting components within a frame of a personal computer where access to only one side of the frame is needed to mount or remove the components with fasteners and fastening tools. The components are secured and restrained from movement in three orthogonal directions. The fasteners are mounted to the exposed side. Bracket guides and spring fingers extend from the frame to provide location and biasing forces to secure the components in their proper locations. This system requires fewer fasteners and reduces assembly time during manufacturing and/or repair. It is easier and quicker to remove and replace a defective component or one which is being upgraded in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Jacklin Ann Adams, Robert Curtis Crigler, Peter Torgil Haughton, Gerald Cecil Proctor, Rodrigo Samper, Kline Whitehead