Work Station Or Support Furniture For Computer Or Computer Related Equipment Patents (Class 312/223.3)
  • Patent number: 7298607
    Abstract: A chassis reinforcing apparatus includes a chassis defining a component housing. A chassis reinforcing member is coupled to the chassis and comprises a bend which is directed towards the component housing. The bend is designed such that, with components housed in the component housing, the chassis reinforcing member is deflected into a substantially planar orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventor: Steven Zielnicki
  • Patent number: 7278360
    Abstract: A desk system with power and/or communication capability includes a series of interconnected desk sections. Each desk section includes a pair of leg that support a worksurface, and one or more stanchions extend upwardly from the worksurface. A primary power distribution system is located below the worksurface. The primary power distribution system includes receptacles mounted to a beam that extends between the pair of legs. Openings are formed in the legs for enabling the primary power distribution system to pass from one desk section to another. Each stanchion defines an open interior and is mounted above an opening formed in the worksurface. Each stanchion includes a mounting plate, and one or more power and/or communication supply blocks are adapted for securement to the mounting plate. Flexible cords or cables extend from each mounting block through the opening in the worksurface, and are plugged into the receptacles or the primary power distribution system located below the worksurface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis G. Griepentrog
  • Patent number: 7278644
    Abstract: A portable workspace for laptop computers that includes a main compartment configured to store computer peripherals and work materials in one or more storage spaces therein and a work surface area configured to securely store a laptop computer between a lid pivotally attached to the main compartment and the top surface of the main compartment. A retractable handle assembly is attached to the main compartment and utilized to move the workspace apparatus on wheels rotatably disposed in a wheel compartment at the back of the main compartment. A chair is removably attached to the main compartment so the user can sit on the chair when utilizing the workspace apparatus. One or more side tables are pivotally attached to the sides of the main compartment and configured to form a generally planar working surface with the top surface of the main compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventor: Arthur Villarreal
  • Patent number: 7270383
    Abstract: A retaining mechanism for use on a Operator Interface Terminal (OIT). The OIT provides a partition between an operator working in a harsh environment and a control computer and monitor in a conditioned environment. The retaining mechanism includes two support pads mounted to the back side of the partition. The support pads support the bottom portion of the monitor. A retaining strap is affixed to the back side of the partition. The retaining strap holds the monitor against the partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventor: Billy W. McElheney
  • Patent number: 7265972
    Abstract: A fixing mechanism for fixing a disc drive and a locking device thereof solves the inconvenience involved in fixing and disassembling the disc drive. The disc drive has at least one a pair of protrusions located at side walls of the disc drive. The fixing mechanism includes a fixing frame and a locking device. The fixing frame has a pair of assembling walls and at least one receiving space is used for receiving the disc drive. One of the assembling walls has a pair of assembling boards protruding outward and an open sliding slot. The protrusions are slidably installed in the sliding slot. The locking device includes a base part and a locking arm. Two sides of the base part are assembled to the assembling boards. A locking hole formed at the free end of the locking arm correspondingly locks one of the protrusions of the disc drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Lite-On Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Cheng-Hsuen Chien, Yung-Lung Liu
  • Patent number: 7262958
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing a component to a chassis in an information handling system. The apparatus has a first interface configured to couple with the component, and a second interface configured to couple with the chassis. One of the first interface and the component includes a first elastically biasable member configured to engage a first engagement feature of the other of the first interface and the component. One of the second interface and the chassis comprises a second elastically biasable member configured to engage a second engagement feature of the other of the second interface and the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Marco A. Marroquin, James Don Curlee, John D. Revell
  • Patent number: 7248466
    Abstract: A computer workstation has interchangeable user interfaces, thereby to allow a single workstation to carry out a plurality of work functions. When the user interface is changed, the workstation visual display is correspondingly changed to show a format and information associated with the operative user interface. Functions available from the workstation CPU may also be changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: The General Electric Co.
    Inventor: Terrance Patrick Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7233487
    Abstract: A laptop computer stand for a cab for an over-the-road vehicle wherein the cab is provided with a passenger seat, comprising a pair of longitudinally extending horizontal arms having forward ends and rear ends, one horizontal arm being attached to an inboard side of the seat and the other horizontal arm being attached to an outboard side of the seat, a curved arm having a horizontal portion extending across the forward ends of the two horizontal arms and being connected thereto, a vertical arm having an upper end and a lower end, the curved arm also having a vertical portion at an inboard end thereof connecting with the lower end of the vertical arm, a diagonal arm connected to and extending from the vertical arm to the rear end of the inboard arm and being connected thereto, a horizontal rectangular bed for receiving and supporting a laptop computer thereon, means connecting the bed to the upper end of the vertical arm so as to support the laptop computer over the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: Roy L. Stinson
  • Patent number: 7230827
    Abstract: A chassis venting apparatus includes a chassis defining a chassis enclosure, the chassis enclosure including a first wall, and a chassis vent structure extending from the first wall and into the chassis enclosure, the chassis vent structure defining a chassis venting passageway in the chassis enclosure. Heated air from heat producing components may be vented from the chassis enclosure through the chassis vent structure and the chassis venting passageway, and the first wall and chassis venting passageway may also be used as a handle to lift the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Cecilia H. Sun, James D. Curlee, Kenneth Musgrave, Huy Nguyen, Lisa Sura
  • Patent number: 7178469
    Abstract: A workstation providing multiple presentation angles for a visible display structure and a related working area structure. The display and working structures are adjustably mounted on a cabinet pedestal that houses electronic equipment connected with components carried by the display and working area structure. The cabinet pedestal is positioned against a wall below gauges and/or other materials mounted on the wall. When not being used, the working area structure closes over the visible display structure to provide a decorative cover over an enclosed area. The display and work structures are retractable to a compact standby position at the top of the cabinet, leaving certain of the wall-mounted materials visible over the top of the stored workstation. A recess provided between the back of the stored display and work structure accommodates certain wall mounted materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: Roger Goza
  • Patent number: 7147290
    Abstract: A heavy-duty workbench with strong metal legs and a thick hardwood top. The workbench can provide docking space for three modules that can function as an additional work surface when pulled out from under the workbench or when used alone. The modules can be provided with an optional hardwood top. The modules can have large heavy-duty casters to facilitate easy movement for use and cleaning. The workbench and modules are designed for use in non-climate controlled spaces such as a garage where temperature and humidity extremes are common. Electrical outlets can be provided in an optional backsplash mounted at the rear edge of the workbench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Wesley Arent, Todd Christopher Starr, Allan Ray Steinkuhl, Mark Allen Stout, John Richard Wisnoski, Kenneth L. Patricio
  • Patent number: 7140701
    Abstract: A heavy-duty workbench with strong metal legs and a thick hardwood top. The workbench can provide docking space for three modules that can function as an additional work surface when pulled out from under the workbench or when used alone. The workbench and modules are designed for use in non-climate controlled spaces such as a garage where temperature and humidity extremes are common. Electrical outlets can be provided in an optional backsplash mounted at the rear edge of the workbench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Wesley Arent, Todd Christopher Starr, Allan Ray Steinkuhl, Mark Allen Stout, John Richard Wisnoski, Kenneth L. Patricio
  • Patent number: 7142410
    Abstract: A transformer is formed by a housing having a main transformer compartment, a first compartment for the input terminals for the main power supply, a second compartment for the output terminals to supply the load and a third compartment for a manually operable switching unit, where each of the compartments is maintained separately from each of the others and each has a manually openable interlocked cover which can be opened to provide access to an interior of the respective compartment. The switch assembly has switch contacts mounted within a switch container located within the third compartment and a manually operable member mounted one on side wall located within the third compartment outside the switch container for moving the switch contacts between open and closed positions. The switch container has a transparent window in a wall thereof through which the contacts can be observed and an insulating liquid bath maintained separate from an insulating liquid bath for the transformer assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Carte International Inc.
    Inventors: Ian H. Norris, Michael L. Bullis, Brian F. Klaponski, Winston R. Madray, Floyd E. A. Engel
  • Patent number: 7125088
    Abstract: A multi-media workstation having a master rail system for permitting horizontal adjustment of the various components of the workstation. The workstation generally includes a console having a work surface and a master rail system for supporting various audiovisual equipment. The master rail system includes a rail extrusion connecting at least two frames and having a longitudinal slot formed in at least one of its surfaces. The various components of the workstation each include a finger engaged in the longitudinal slot of the rail extrusion, wherein the component is able to be horizontally translated along a length of the rail extrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Forecast Consoles, Inc.
    Inventor: William G. Haberman
  • Patent number: 7109417
    Abstract: A roll over audio visual control center (“roll over platform”) designed to be embedded for use within the top of a conference table to display, in an inverted position, a power or communications outlet for use on top of the conference table or to hide, in a regular position, the power or communications outlet under the conference table when not in use. The roll over platform consists of two main parts: a housing and a control center. The housing is rectangular in shape and forms a hollow center. The control center approximates the rectangular shape of the housing and is secured within the hollow center of the housing by a hinge. The hinge enables the rotation of the control center within the hollow center of the housing. The roll over platform further consists of a means to secure the control center to the housing to enable the regular and inverted positions of the control center with respect to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: FCI, Inc.
    Inventor: John Wade Beam
  • Patent number: 7106014
    Abstract: A lectern incorporating a support member having a recess that can receive a control panel or laptop or notebook computer, for use with the by a speaker or other presenter. The support member defines an interior, and includes a keyboard tray slidably received within the interior and connectable to the monitor or computer positioned within the recess such that an individual can enter information directly from the keyboard into the device positioned within the recess. The lectern also includes a pair of sliding panels that can be used to cover or expose the device positioned within the recess. The lectern further includes a vertical adjustment mechanism for raising or lowering the height of the lectern as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Mastalir, Lon D. Seidl
  • Patent number: 7102879
    Abstract: An industrial computer hinge assembly includes a bolt having a head and an extension, a first positioning ring with a first hook, a second positioning ring with a second hook, multiple leaf springs and an assembly device having an extension hole and a first fixing hole defined in a main board casing to correspond to the extension of the bolt and the first hook respectively and a hole and a second fixing hole defined in a screen casing to correspond to the extension and the second hook respectively. After the extension combines with the nut, engagement between the first positioning ring and the second positioning ring provides friction force to support the screen casing relative to the main board casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventor: Steven Lee
  • Patent number: 7099152
    Abstract: A system includes a computer having at least one power input connection and at least one I/O connection grouped into a first port. The system also includes a docking station that has at least one power output connection and at least one I/O connection grouped into a second port. The system further comprises a cable having a first end connectable with the first port and a second end connectable with the second port. The cable provides an interconnection between the at least one power output connection of the docking station and the at least one power input connection of the computer. The cable also provides interconnection between the at least one I/O connection of the computer and the at least one I/O connection of the docking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Henry Frank Gasbarro, Harry Neil Campbell
  • Patent number: 7099150
    Abstract: A support structure is provided to accommodate a flat computer thereon and allows convenient viewing and manipulation of the flat computer. The support structure has a socle, a carrier platform, a first bi-directional adjustment mechanism, fixedly mounted to the socle, a second bi-directional adjustment mechanism, fixedly mounted to the carrier platform, and a connecting rod having two ends. One end of the connecting rod is connected to the first bi-directional adjustment mechanism, and the other end is connected to second bi-directional adjustment mechanism so as to enable adjustment of the inclination angle of the carrier platform and the connecting rod relative to the socle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Amtek System Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wang-Tsai Lee
  • Patent number: 7092253
    Abstract: Back plane and mid-plane assemblies and related systems and methods are described. In one embodiment, a system comprises an enclosure and a plane assembly mounted within the enclosure and configured to connect with multiple pluggable devices. The plane assembly comprises a first plane portion having multiple connectors; and at least a second plane portion having multiple connectors, with the second plane portion being offset from the first plane portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, LP.
    Inventor: An Hien Lam
  • Patent number: 7079389
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a main unit and a display unit. The main unit having a top surface, a front surface and a left and a right side surfaces. The display unit having a front surface having a display screen, and side surfaces, a top surface and a lower surface. The display unit is rotatable between a first position, where the display unit is laid on the main unit, and a second position where the display unit stands up with respect to the main unit. The front surface and the side surfaces of the main unit form a first inclined surface which is inclined in an inward direction of the main unit toward the top surface. The side surfaces, the top surface and the lower surface of the display unit form a second inclined surface which is inclined in an inward direction of the display unit toward the front surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Manabu Tago
  • Patent number: 7061756
    Abstract: A drive bracket (30) includes a first latch member (40) and a second latch member (50) to secure a number of data storage devices (10) therein. The first latch member is movably attached to a side panel (33) of bracket via a spring (60). The second latch member comprises a pair of stops (56). The stop comprises a pair of slopes (563, 564) and a pair of vertical locating boards (565). The second latch member is adjustably attached to the first locking member. The data storage device with studs (15) installed in one sidewall thereof is slideably installed in the bracket. The studs switchably ride over the corresponding slopes and are blocked by the vertical boards of the second latch member to secure the data storage devices in the bracket in different positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignees: Hong Pu Jin Precision IND(Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Pin-Shian Wu
  • Patent number: 7057884
    Abstract: An instrument enclosure apparatus has a housing with a sidewall and a pair of retaining posts disposed within the housing and adjacent the sidewall, the retaining posts in combination with the sidewall defining a pair of opposing channels for slidably receiving a complementarily shaped insert part. Vents may be disposed along the sidewall of the housing, and the insert part assists in providing adaptable air flow management design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Davidson, David Ravie
  • Patent number: 7032523
    Abstract: A workstation is disclosed that defines a work space and provides at least one display device. The workstation includes a base providing a guide. The workstation also includes at least one upstanding structure having a wheel assembly adapted for movement along a path defined by the guide about the work space to selectively deliver utilities to at least one portion of the work space and a worksurface coupled to the structure and providing a display support assembly adapted for pivotably coupling of the display device. The structure and worksurface and display support assembly are movable relative to the base so that a display device coupled to the display support assembly may be selectively positioned for use in a variety of locations in the work space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Carl V. Forslund, III, Joel Stanfield, Jonathan J. King, Mark A. Baloga
  • Patent number: 7031146
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus including a body having a circuit board; and a display device connected through a connecting portion to the body in an open position or in a closed position with respect to said body. Preferably, the body has two side surfaces which are not parallel to a central axis of the connecting portion. The two side surfaces have a first portion having a first distance between the two side surfaces of the body at the connecting portion of the body and the display device, with the first distance being smaller than a width of the display device; and a second portion having a second distance between the two side surfaces, with the second distance being larger than the first distance, and being approximately equal to the width of the display device. Also, the second portion is preferably a part of the body at a farther position from the connecting portion than the first portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Wataru Tanaka, Ikki Tatsukami, Takashi Iijima, Yutaka Sato
  • Patent number: 7029079
    Abstract: Disclosed is a recess-computer furniture unit that serves or both a conventional piece of furniture in one configuration, and as a computer station in a second configuration. The furniture unit includes a plurality of panels conformally integrated into the unit. These panels open to reveal a computer housing, keyboard, and flat panel monitor. In this operational configuration, a front access panel provides a support surface for the keyboard, and an upper access panel provides a mounting support for the monitor. The computer housing is discretely concealed below in a cavity created between the upper access panel and the underside of the furniture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Aaron Holt
  • Patent number: 7009840
    Abstract: A mobile workstation includes an adjustable-height horizontal tray and a pull-out keyboard tray mounted beneath the horizontal tray to support a keyboard. A device, such as computer terminal, mounts to the horizontal tray through installation into a vertically-mounted docking station mounted to the horizontal tray, or through a mounting bracket mounted adjacent to the horizontal tray. A tiltable bracket mounts the docking station to the horizontal tray, and a clutch assembly allows the angle of the bracket and the angle of the docking station and the computer terminal, to be adjusted to avoid glare on the terminal's display screen. With a mounting bracket, a tiltable bracket mounts a vertically-mounted display screen to the top of the horizontal tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: LXE, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Clark, Michael R. Jacobs, Steven B. Flemig
  • Patent number: 7008028
    Abstract: A workcenter or desk including: (1) a first horizontal surface for supporting a computer monitor, (2) a first pair of parallel, spaced, vertically extending sidewalls connected to the bottom of the first horizontal surface, (3) a shelf connected between the first pair of sidewalls below the first horizontal surface; and (4) a second horizontal surface located below the first horizontal surface and above the shelf and having an aperture therethrough. The second horizontal surface is unitarily formed to provide a portion of the second horizontal surface in front of the aperture. The first pair of sidewalls extend through the second horizontal surface aperture. The shelf is positioned such that a CPU is supported thereon and extends through the second horizontal surface aperture toward the first horizontal surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: O'Sullivan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Probst
  • Patent number: 7004081
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a computer desk, comprising a main desk; two side rods, vertically disposed at the side of the main desk; two adjusting members, respectively sheathed into the two side rods, and sliding along the side rod and being secured onto the said side rod; a loading board with one end coupled to an upper section of one of the adjusting members; a supporting stand having a threaded rod on one end and a slightly elevated Y-shape rod on the other end; the threaded rod with a screw nut being disposed in a through pipe at the external lower section of the adjusting member of the loading board, and the open end of the Y-shape rod being secured onto the bottom of the loading board; a side desk, movably foldable on a side of the main desk; and a side desk link rod having one end pivotally coupled to the exterior of another adjusting member, and the other end pivotally coupled to the bottom of the side desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Wu-De Chang
  • Patent number: 6999320
    Abstract: An expansible and detachable housing of electronic device has two half-housings and two base plates with a detachable pivot element respectively connected to the bottom plates. Whereby, when the two bottom plates are formed a plane, the two half-housings are formed an extension state, or when the two bottom plates is caused to be perpendicular to each other, the two half-housing bodies is allowed to assemble to form a complete housing, or when the two bottom plates are separated, the two half-housings is formed a separation state. Therefore, the present invention can allow each electronic element to be assembled easily and to be maintained conveniently. Furthermore, electronic elements can be conveniently assembled in the two half-housing bodies separately at two different locations according to needs, and then, integrated into a whole body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: First International Computer, Inc.
    Inventor: Cheng-Yuan Fan
  • Patent number: 6996939
    Abstract: A room partition system for a room having a central connecting panel and hingeably attached, foldable lateral storage units. Each of the lateral storage units has a bottom-mounted wheel assembly, thereby allowing the partition system to be rolled to various locations within the room. The lateral storage units have a plurality of shelves and provide substantial storage volume for containment of various items of clothing and other accessories. The lateral storage units are attached by hinges to the central connecting panel, thereby allowing a user to fold the storage units partially or fully against the connecting panel. The partition system has an open position, wherein the storage units extend parallel to the connecting panel, and also a folded position, wherein each lateral storage unit is rotated upon its hinges to a position perpendicular to that of the connecting panel, thereby forming a partially enclosed area for use as an entertainment center, a study center, or a work center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Herbert Jackson
  • Patent number: 6986556
    Abstract: A multi-media workstation having a master rail system for permitting horizontal adjustment of the various components of the workstation. The workstation generally includes a console having a work surface and a master rail system for supporting various audiovisual equipment. The master rail system includes a rail extrusion connecting at least two frames and having a longitudinal slot formed in at least one of its surfaces. The various components of the workstation each include a finger engaged in the longitudinal slot of the rail extrusion, wherein the component is able to be horizontally translated along a length of the rail extrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Forecast Consoles, Inc.
    Inventor: William G. Haberman
  • Patent number: 6980427
    Abstract: A server blade may comprise a processor. The server blade may additionally comprise a removable media interface device. The server blade can be configured as a field replaceable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Garnett, James E. King, Martin P. Mayhead, Peter Heffernan
  • Patent number: 6966620
    Abstract: A side cover is secured to a frame of a computer case by a clamp including a clamping piece and a clamp socket which engage within corresponding holes provided in the frame and side cover to secure the side cover to the frame without requiring conventional fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: In Win Development, Inc.
    Inventor: Vincent Lai
  • Patent number: 6953231
    Abstract: An advanced data electrified fully adjustable computer corner desk having a keyboard platform recessed into work surface that comprises a corner section and adjacent furniture components. The work surface of the corner section is pentagonal and has a front edge slightly greater than that of the keyboard platform. The two side edges of the corner section are at 45° angles to the front edge, and are of a lesser extension than the two rear edges that form a 90° angled corner. Disposed on the underside of the work surface is a control switch for the activation of a surge protection unit and wire management means. The wire management means includes a horizontally disposed aperture at the rear corner spaced slightly from the two rear edges, and at least one vertically disposed wire grommet situated in a modesty panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: California Office Furniture
    Inventor: Gary Markofer
  • Patent number: 6937465
    Abstract: A portable computer having a latch apparatus and an opening unit which enable an operator to open the portable computer with one hand. A main body of the computer is rotatably combined with an LCD assembly. A latch apparatus locks the LCD assembly to and releases the LCD assembly from the main body. The latch apparatus includes a fixed hook part in the LCD assembly and a movable hook part in the main body. A knob part has a push button part exposed to the outside of the main body. A projection part of the knob extends from the push button part and moves the movable hook part to a releasing position by cooperating with a through hole of the movable hook part. The opening unit includes a torsion apparatus to assist in opening the portable computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Bum-su Park
  • Patent number: 6930887
    Abstract: A chassis, such as an information handling system component housing, couples to opposing sliding rails with support posts that align with slots formed in the rails and a securing device that automatically engages to prevent removal of the chassis from the rails. The securing devices has a retractable button biased to an extended position with a spring and a block aligned so that insertion of the support posts in the slots compresses the button to a retracted position. The chassis slides relative to the rails so that the support posts position under lips of the slots and compression of the button is removed by removal of the block from a compressing position relative to the button. The extended button cooperates with the block to restrict movement of the chassis relative to the rail. Manual compression of the button permits movement of the chassis relative to the rail for removal of the supporting posts from under the lip and release of the chassis from the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventor: Corey Hartman
  • Patent number: 6913332
    Abstract: A retracting keyboard and monitor platform is provided. By using a lift mechanism a monitor is lifted, vertically, from the back of the desk. When a user is done the screen retracts and disappears. Installation of the device requires that an opening be cut in the back of the desk. One advantage to this concept is the increased work surface. Also, when a flat panel monitor is used a minimum of leg space is lost on the underside of the desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Glen H. Besterfield, Chris Ollman, Steve Gabrielse, Kathy Esser, Kevin Riordan
  • Patent number: 6912599
    Abstract: A mass storage cabinet having passive device position sensing and including shelves for racking device enclosures. A cabinet bus is linked to the shelves and adapted to provide a unique shelf identifier signal to each of the shelves. The cabinet includes a device providing a cabinet identifier to the shelves. The cabinet bus includes junction boxes having first and second sets of sensing wires and a side connectors linked to the shelves for providing the shelf identifier signal from the first and second sets of sensing wires. To provide a different signal at each junction box, the sensing wires in the first set are moved one position and the sensing wires in the second set are moved one position prior to the connection to an adjacent junction box. An additional sensing wire is linked to the side connectors and grounded and ungrounded at each side connector to alter the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Stephen J. Sicola, Bruce A. Sardeson, Dennis Spicher, Richard Bruce Roberts, Bill Pagano, William K. Miller, Clay T. Wade, Mark Shepp
  • Patent number: 6906927
    Abstract: A computer case having a pull bar structure for removing a front panel has a pull bar slidably mounted on the bottom wall of the case. The front wall of the case is provided with a front panel. To remove or to mount the front panel, only one side panel has to be taken off first. The pull bar is then pulled so as to decouple a bulged fixing dot on a pressing end thereof with a fixing hole on a fixing member of the front panel. A computer case having a pull bar structure therefore simplifies the process of removing the front panel and saves a significant amount of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Tatung Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chih-Min Su
  • Patent number: 6895869
    Abstract: A computer desk for either right-hander or left-hander is disclosed. The desk comprises two first crosspieces interconnected legs at both side, second and third crosspieces interconnected both sides, two links moveably mounted on the first crosspieces, a connecting member moveable along the links, a latch at the connecting member, a printer support on top of the links, a keyboard tray, a hole in each leg, and a computer platform releasably secured to the holes from one of inner and outer locations at either side of the desk. For adjusting the print support and the tray, unfasten the second crosspiece by pivoting the latch upward, slide the links along the first crosspieces and the tray along the third crosspiece to left or right side of the desk, and fasten the second crosspiece by pivoting the latch downward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Chyi Cheng Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kuo-Ping Lai
  • Patent number: 6885796
    Abstract: A power and communications assembly including a housing removably mountable to a worksurface, at least one electrical power receptacle at least partially contained in the housing and an optical splitting device configured to split one optical bi-directional signal into a plurality of additional optical bi-directional signals, the optical splitting device substantially within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Pent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth H. Lubkert, Brian K. Rupert
  • Patent number: 6857712
    Abstract: A multi-media workstation having a master rail system for permitting horizontal adjustment of the various components of the workstation. The workstation generally includes a console having a work surface and a master rail system for supporting various audiovisual equipment. The master rail system includes a rail extrusion connecting at least two frames and having a longitudinal slot formed in at least one of its surfaces. The various components of the workstation each include a finger engaged in the longitudinal slot of the rail extrusion, wherein the component is able to be horizontally translated along a length of the rail extrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Forecast Consoles, Inc.
    Inventor: William G. Haberman
  • Patent number: 6856514
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mounting system for components in the housing of a computer server. The mounting system is preferably a height-adjustable thumb screw assembly, which allows for the components to be installed or removed without the use of tools. In a preferred embodiment, a thumb screw assembly capable of securing components to a chassis includes a screw and a gripping accessory. The screw preferably has a threaded portion, a shank portion, and a head portion, wherein a first groove extends along the shank portion and a second groove intersects the first groove under the head portion. The gripping accessory preferably has an outer gripping surface, a retaining socket, and a hub, wherein a grip is positioned inside the hub for matingly engaging the grooves of the screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Kelly K. Smith
  • Patent number: 6856513
    Abstract: A media drive mount includes first and second first and second channels open at one end for receiving locating protrusions on a media drive. The locating protrusions can, for example, be screwed onto the media drive mount. Resilient detents are provided in the channels to co-operate with the resilient detents. The resilient detents can be configured to provide resistance during insertion and removal of the media drive, the former being used to provide positive locating of the media drive, and the latter to hold the media drive in the mount. Mounting and demounting of the media drive in the mount can be achieved without the use of tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Jeffrey Garnett, Helenaur Wilson, Murray Fordyce
  • Patent number: 6853545
    Abstract: A guiding structure which guides a flexible printed wiring board through a hinge portion between a body member and a swingable member hinged on the body member via a pivot, the guiding structure includes a flexible-PWB fixing portion formed on the swingable member to be coaxial with the pivot, and a flexible-PWB insertion portion formed on the body member to be coaxial with the pivot and to be rotatable relative to the flexible-PWB fixing portion. One end of the flexible printed wiring board is positioned inside the swingable member. An intermediate portion of the flexible printed wiring board is drawn into the body member through the flexible-PWB insertion portion after a portion of the intermediate portion is fixed to the flexible-PWB fixing portion. Another end of the flexible printed wiring board is connected to a connector provided inside the body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: PENTAX Corporation
    Inventors: Kosei Kosako, Ken Endo
  • Patent number: 6853546
    Abstract: A modular data device assembly includes a chassis that has an open front and a back. The chassis also has exterior dimensions that correspond to the dimensions of an industry standard drive bay. The chassis further has a plurality of slots that are disposed inside the chassis. The modular data device also includes a plurality of disk data storage devices, a backplane, and a connector. Each disk data storage device is disposed in one of the plurality of slots. The backplane is disposed in the back of the chassis. The backplane has a plurality of connectors which are mechanically coupled thereto and each of which is connected to one of the disk data storage devices. The power source connector is mechanically and electrically coupled to the backplane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Josef Rabinovitz
  • Patent number: 6846052
    Abstract: A desk unit incorporating a concealed pull-out keyboard well includes a work surface and a concealed keyboard platform mounted under a work surface. The work surface can have an apron on the lower front surface that conceals the keyboard platform. A movable section of the work surface at a front edge thereof is movable in a path that extends downwardly and under the front edge of the keyboard tray and then rearwardly under the keyboard tray, where the movable section can be stored or removed from the desk unit. When the movable section is thus positioned, the keyboard can be used or extended for use. This desk construction can be employed in a corner mounted desk, wherein the keyboard tray is mounted at an angle under a corner in the desk, or the invention can be employed in a conventional desk having a work surface with a straight front edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Sligh Furniture Company
    Inventors: James O. Kelley, Ralph J Byma, Gregg J. Persons
  • Patent number: 6842336
    Abstract: A hand-held electrical device (10) such as a mobile telephone, includes a carrier (11) formed by a thick (over 2 mm) plate of insulative material having a plurality of recesses that receive electronic components. The periphery of the carrier forms most of the periphery of the electronic device. A circuit board (52) with traces thereon lies facewise adjacent to a face of the carrier. Electronic components lying in recesses of the carrier, are connected by resilient blades to conductive traces on the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Andreas Schremmer, Tobias Schimmele-Brell, Gerhard Geiselmann, Werner Pfitzenreiter, Iain Thomas Learmonth
  • Patent number: 6827409
    Abstract: The present invention is an integrated sliding keyboard tray and adjustable flip down monitor. It has a bracket that is mounted to a slot cut into an existing work surface. A flat panel monitor and a keyboard tray are both slidably mounted to separate pairs of rails disposed upon the bracket. The monitor may be adjusted forward, back, up, down and for pitch. When not in use the monitor may be folded down parallel to the existing work surface against which it forms a watertight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Gregory Michael