Work Station Or Support Furniture For Computer Or Computer Related Equipment Patents (Class 312/223.3)
  • Patent number: 6824230
    Abstract: A corner computer workcenter is described that includes an arrangement for positioning a CPU of a computer proximate to a monitor, keyboard, and other peripheral devices thereof an at a height with respect to the user that facilitates access to media drives and power switches. In one embodiment, the corner computer workcenter of the present invention includes a first horizontal surface for supporting a computer monitor, a second horizontal surface comprising a work surface located in front of and beneath the first surface, and a third horizontal surface located below the work surface for supporting a computer keyboard and other input devices. A shelf, the vertical height of which may be adjustable, is included for positioning a CPU of the computer just below the monitor and behind the work surface and keyboard support surface so that cables provided with the computer for connecting the monitor, keyboard, and other input devices to the CPU are of sufficient length to serve their intended purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: O'Sullivan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Probst
  • Patent number: 6819552
    Abstract: A mechanism for protecting a portable electronic device, e.g., a handheld computer system. In one embodiment, the present invention is comprised of an encasing structure having an opening and configured to receive and have disposed therewithin the handheld computer system. The present invention is further comprised of a lifting device coupled to the encasing structure. The lifting device is adapted to raise the handheld computer system above the confines of the encasing structure and further adapted to lower the handheld computer system to a disposition therewithin the encasing structure. The encasing structure can be used to protect input/output ports or slots, I/Os externally disposed on side surfaces of the handheld computer system when the handheld computer system is disposed within the encasing structure, and the lifting device enables raising the handheld computer system above the confines of the encasing structure to provide access to the I/Os.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: palmOne, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence Lam, Huy Nguyen
  • Patent number: 6807062
    Abstract: An apparatus in one example comprises a rack component that supports a drop-in chassis. The rack component comprises an over-bent ledge and the drop-in chassis comprises an over-bent ledge. Upon installation of the drop-in chassis to the rack component the over-bent ledge of the rack component serves to support the over-bent ledge of the drop-in chassis. A shape of the over-bent ledge of the rack component promotes an increase of a holding effect between the drop-in chassis and the rack component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Craig Edward Lauchner
  • Patent number: 6802577
    Abstract: An enclosure system for electronic equipment concealable in a table top is disclosed. The enclosure system has a saddle attached to a bezel. The saddle defines an open area for receiving an enclosure. The bezel defines an opening for receiving a top plate of the enclosure. An outer perimeter of the bottom surface of the bezel rests on edges of an opening cut through a table top. The enclosure pivots from a concealed position, in which the top plate is flush with the bezel, to an open position in which the face plate of the enclosure is exposed. A spring biases the enclosure towards the open position, while a latch maintains the enclosure in the concealed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: Jack Gershfeld
  • Publication number: 20040194670
    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: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Kuo-Ping Lai
  • Patent number: 6799816
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a computer desk 8 comprises a stationary desktop 12 for supporting a computer screen, a tray 18 having an upper keyboard supporting surface spaced below the desktop surface, a wrist support 20 secured to a forward end of the tray, and a forearm support 40 slidably moveable in front of or behind the keyboard. In another embodiment, the desk is used with an articulating workstation assembly comprising an articulating arm 40 attached to the desk and a workstation assembly supported on a free end of the articulating arm. The workstation assembly includes a lower shelf 53 attached to an articulating arm, and an upper shelf 54 slidably moveable with a wrist support 58 relative to the lower shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventor: William N. Touzani
  • Patent number: 6788543
    Abstract: An information processing apparatus comprises a main unit and a cover. The main unit has a slot formed in its surface and a cover mounting portion formed on the surface. An electronic device can be inserted into the main unit through the slot. The cover is located on the surface of the main unit so as to cover the slot. The cover has an end portion disposed on the cover mounting portion. The end portion is rockably attached to the cover mounting portion of the main unit by means of a hinge mechanism. The cover is detachable from the main unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Atsuhiro Yanagida
  • Patent number: 6781842
    Abstract: A computer enclosure includes a hood (30), a bracket (10) attached to the hood, and a base (60). The bracket includes a connective portion (12), and two frames (14, 16) connected with opposite sides of the connective portion. Two L-shaped openings (18a) and an aperture (20a) are defined in the connective portion. A distal edge of each frame is bent outwardly to form a flange (22). An L-shaped opening (18b) and an aperture (20b) are defined in each flange. Three parallel beams (32a, 32b) are formed from a top plate (31) of the hood. The beams form a plurality of latches (36b) engagingly received in the openings of the bracket. A plurality of posts (34a, 34b) is formed at the beams, corresponding to the apertures. A plurality of screws (50) extends through the apertures and is threadedly engaged in the posts. The bracket is thereby locked on the hood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., LTD
    Inventors: Yun-Lung Chen, Jung-Chi Chen
  • Publication number: 20040150300
    Abstract: Using desktop computer components and integrating them into different types of desks. While not changing the computers function or the desks, it simply combines the two.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventor: Richard Jesse Wyatt
  • Patent number: 6771496
    Abstract: An anchoring structure for computer modules without using screws includes a computer cartridge which has cartridge walls on the left side and the right side to house therebetween a plurality of modules in a longitudinal manner. Each cartridge wall is spaced from a cartridge side wall to form an actuating compartment. An actuating plank is located on an outer side of the cartridge wall and coupled on struts. Each strut is coupled with an elastic element to press the actuating plank inwards. The actuating plank has an inner side formed latch elements to engage with cavities formed on the modules. A pulling plank is provided that has one end extended outside the cartridge and jutting tongues located inside corresponding to bent eaves of the actuating plank. The modules may be anchored or removed by pulling or pushing the pulling plank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Cotytech Industrial Inc.
    Inventor: Wen-Liang Wu
  • Patent number: 6768633
    Abstract: An external power supply module includes a module case adapted to be disposed in a portable electronic apparatus, an adapter circuit disposed in the module case and adapted to convert AC power to DC power that is to be supplied to the portable electronic apparatus, a set of contacts provided on the module case and adapted to establish electrical connection between the adapter circuit and the portable electronic apparatus, and a heat-dissipating unit mounted on the module case for dissipating heat generated during operation of the adapter circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Compal Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Wei-Pin Chuang
  • Publication number: 20040140742
    Abstract: A table device includes a housing having a channel to slidably receive a drawer, a seat disposed on the housing, and a board rotatably supported on the seat for rotatably supporting objects, such as computers. A frame is rotatably supported between the seat and the board with a number of balls. The housing includes two bulges, the seat includes two cavities to receive the bulges and to retain the seat on top of the housing. Two or more blocks may be selectively or adjustably disposed between the seat and the housing to adjust the computer and the seat to different heights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventor: Jan Ban Liu
  • Patent number: 6755491
    Abstract: A hardened Operator Interface Terminal (OIT) in an environmentally harsh area interfaces with computer components such as a control computer and a computer monitor in a controlled environment that is separated from the harsh environment by a wall or door. A sealed front panel mounts on the front side of the wall or door, and is exposed to the harsh environment while the computer components mount on shelves that are located on the back side of the wall or door. One of the shelves holds the monitor and is adjustable to align the monitor with a touch screen panel that is sealed in a window in the front panel. The shelves provide easy access to the computer components for service. A pivoting keyboard tray on the front panel holds a keyboard and mouse, and is fully sealed. The OIT is easily disassembled and packaged into a compact size for shipping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Billy W. McElheney
  • Patent number: 6746502
    Abstract: An electronics assembly includes a chassis and a panel mounted on the chassis. The panel has an air filter on a surface of the panel which is retained in position on the panel by one or more retaining elements (80), for example plastics rivets, that can be operated to allow release of the air filter from the panel. The air filter can be changed very quickly during maintenance of the assembly without the need to switch the assembly off during changing of the air filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew John Yair, John David Schnabel, Sean Conor Wrycraft, Stephen Paul Haworth
  • Publication number: 20040100167
    Abstract: The invention concerns a computer room desk (1) comprising a frame (12), a shelf (24) mounted cantilevered at the front of the frame and a receptacle (40) for housing equipment (48) in the receptacle. The receptacle (40) is mounted tilting about a horizontal hinge pin (X-X) of the frame and it comprises an apron (42) forming an access door and a support (44) perpendicularly linked to the apron, substantially at the hinge pin, such that the receptacle (40) is capable of pivoting between an open position wherein the apron (42) extends horizontally forwards of the desk to provide a receiving space (46) for equipment (48) and a c position wherein the apron (42) is vertically upright and the equipment (48) lie on the support (44) and is retracted indside the frame (12). The invention is particularly applicable to banking institutions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventor: Alain Rudolf
  • Patent number: 6741461
    Abstract: A personal computer that looks like a school bus or other toy, which uses characteristic items on the toy for computer control and status functions. A common computer mainframe connects to standard peripheral components in the ordinary way, including a monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, etc. However, the computer housing has the shape of a school bus or other toy, with various features incorporated into the unit via a combination of molded plastic and printing on the surface and added modeling details, such as headlights, taillights, running lights, tires in wheel wells, grill, bumpers, license plate, etc. Functions like CD/DVD drives and floppy drives emerge from the luggage area on top of the vehicle or extend underneath the grille of the vehicle for easy access. The power supply mounts in the rear of the vehicle with a motherboard running along the bottom portion of the vehicle. Peripheral component connectors are located along the bottom of the bus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventors: Bunmi Owoeye, Aderemi Owoeye
  • Patent number: 6736469
    Abstract: Flat prefabricated panels are fastened together to form a desk/computer workstation having an adjustable monitor support and an adjustable keyboard support. A vertical member on the monitor support panel which adjusts the position of a monitor is selectively movable along a slot formed therein. A slidable panel on the rear of the desk is used to control the height of the rear edge of the monitor support panel while slidable members on the inboard surfaces of side panels of the desk proper are used to adjust the height of the forward end of the monitor support panel. A keyboard support is adjustably mounted on the side panels by way of two pairs of flat panels. In a second embodiment, a hutch or equipment support shelf is mounted on the monitor support panel. The angle of an equipment support shelf of the hutch with respect to the horizontal is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Long
  • Publication number: 20040090154
    Abstract: A parallelepiped lifting device mounted under a computer desk in a storage position is disclosed. Prior to using a computer, the device is activated by starting a motor in a clockwise rotation to lift an LCD of the computer from under the desk by means of a mechanism comprising chains, sprockets, and a bar. A lowering of the device into the desk is performed by starting the motor in a counterclockwise rotation by means of the same mechanism. The invention can save desk space for other purposes in the storage position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Chun-Chung Chang
  • Publication number: 20040090153
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a computer desk 8 comprises a stationary desktop 12 for supporting a computer screen, a tray 18 having an upper keyboard supporting surface spaced below the desktop surface, a wrist support 20 secured to a forward end of the tray, and a forearm support 40 slidably moveable in front of or behind the keyboard. In another embodiment, the desk is used with an articulating workstation assembly comprising an articulating arm 40 attached to the desk and a workstation assembly supported on a free end of the articulating arm. The workstation assembly includes a lower shelf 53 attached to an articulating arm, and an upper shelf 54 slidably moveable with a wrist support 58 relative to the lower shelf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: William N. Touzani
  • Publication number: 20040075373
    Abstract: An enclosure system for electronic equipment concealable in a table top is disclosed. The enclosure system has a saddle attached to a bezel. The saddle defines an open area for receiving an enclosure. The bezel defines an opening for receiving a top plate of the enclosure. An outer perimeter of the bottom surface of the bezel rests on edges of an opening cut through a table top. The enclosure pivots from a concealed position, in which the top plate is flush with the bezel, to an open position in which the face plate of the enclosure is exposed. A spring biases the enclosure towards the open position, while a latch maintains the enclosure in the concealed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Jack Gershfeld
  • Patent number: 6721178
    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: June 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: FHS Acquisition, LLC
    Inventors: Richard A. Clark, Michael R. Jacobs, Steven B. Flemig
  • Patent number: 6712433
    Abstract: A workstation system includes, as a “core” element, a self-standing service trunk that can be used in association with free-standing desks placed adjacent the trunk, or desk structures that are physically connected to the trunk. The trunk has a top that provides a generally horizontal storage support surface above desk height, and the trunk incorporates power and communication cable troughs for delivering power and communication services from an input location on the trunk to an output location accessible from a desk associated with the trunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: TK Canada Limited
    Inventors: John Hellwig, Geoffrey Milligan, Steve Verbeek, Lorie Marangoni, Genadij Makarewicz, Terry Woodside, Stefano Lio, Zoran Baic, Jonathon Loudon, Dakota Kasdorf, Paul Kruger
  • Patent number: 6711002
    Abstract: An expandable housing for a electronics device comprises two half covering bodies, which respectively have a bottom board connected with a front board, sideboard and backboard; two sides of a pivoting element are connected to the two bottom boards so as to allow the two half covering bodies to be formed a expansion state while the two bottom boards are expanded into a flat plane and to be assembled into a housing while the two bottom boards are perpendicular to each other. Thereby, the structures of the housing and the frame body can be simplified and a larger space can be obtain when the housing is expanded so that the installment and maintenance of electronics elements become more easy and convenient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: First International Computer Inc.
    Inventor: Cheng-Yuan Fan
  • Patent number: 6707667
    Abstract: An integral computer comprises a monitor and computer assembly, a modular assembly having spaces for receiving components and peripherals and for future expansion, a front frame mechanism, and a rear cover. In another embodiment, the computer further comprises a lower support device comprising a pedestal having magnetic members for magnetically coupled to a keyboard, and a support plate integrally formed with the computer, the support plate being releasably secured to the pedestal. The invention can easily effect an angle adjustment of the monitor about the pedestal, a horizontal turning and height adjustment of the monitor, or a movement of the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: Kuo-Yao Yang
  • Patent number: 6693795
    Abstract: The notebook type information processing apparatus includes an apparatus body having a circuit board, and a display device connected to the apparatus body by hinges. The side of the apparatus body includes a first side portion at the front of the apparatus body and a second side portion on the front side of first side portion. The first side portion protrudes outward with respect to the second side portion so that the load of the apparatus body is supported by the body itself and the display device and the shape of the apparatus body may be changed irrespective of the display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Wataru Tanaka, Ikki Tatsukami, Takashi Iijima, Yutaka Sato
  • Publication number: 20040007949
    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: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Aaron Holt
  • Patent number: 6661649
    Abstract: An information-processing device includes a main body part having an accommodating part, a display part and a removable unit that is detachably attached to the accommodating part. The removable unit has latch detents receivable in latch receiving parts provided on the accommodating part. The information-processing device further includes guide grooves provided on one of the accommodating part and the removable unit and guide rails provided on the other one of the accommodating part and the removable unit. The latch receiving parts are formed on one of the guide grooves and the guide rails and have a height that is substantially equal to a height of the guide rails or a depth of the guide grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Kaigo Tanaka, Sonomasa Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 6657187
    Abstract: The inventive system comprises a scanning microscope with at least one monitor, a computer and inputting means. Furthermore, at least one laser and control electronics are provided. All of these elements can be arranged on a table top. The laser and the control electronics are stored in a electromagnetically shielded housing wherein the housing can be completely stored under the table top. The housing comprises an U-shaped control panel which embraces a part of the table top when the housing is stored completely under the table top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Lecia Microsystems Heidelberg GmbH
    Inventor: Johann Engelhardt
  • Patent number: 6657867
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system that enables an add-in card to be removed from a densely packaged server while the server is operating. A hinged door, integral to the side of the server chassis, opens to allow access to the add-in card slots. A specially designed server chassis with a reduced height rail allows the door opening to be large enough to allow access to multiple add-in cards. The horizontally oriented add-in cards are mounted in a receiving cage that plugs into and is releasably attached to the server board. Thus, by opening the door in the side of the server chassis, individual cards can be installed or removed. If the cards are hot-pluggable, they can be installed or removed while the server is running. Additionally, the entire stack of cards can be removed from the system board as a unit without tools or loose hardware. Both of these features provide advantages that increase the efficiency of servicing and maintaining a densely packaged server unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, LP.
    Inventor: Kelly K. Smith
  • Patent number: 6654235
    Abstract: A portable workstation computer is disclosed. The computer includes a display assembly adapted to be mounted between a frontal concave member and a rearward concave member. A keyboard, mouse, and accessories may be stored in the frontal concave member. Processing, memory, and storage components are housed in the rearward concave member. The display assembly may be interposed between the frontal concave member and the rearward concave member in a briefcase configuration, forming a casing for the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Bruce Imsand
  • Patent number: 6646882
    Abstract: A structure of redundant arrays of inexpensive disks (R.A.I.D.) with servers is disclosed. The structure of the invention includes a R.A.I.D., a server, and a housing. The connection between the R.A.I.D. and the server, and the connection between the server and the housing are achieved by connectors respectively formed on edges of the R.A.I.D., the server and the housing. Thereby, the device space and wiring limitation can be overcome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Shoei-Yuan Shih
  • Publication number: 20030197451
    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: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Gregory Michael
  • Publication number: 20030184194
    Abstract: A corner computer workcenter is described that includes means for positioning a CPU of a computer proximate to a monitor, keyboard, and other peripheral devices thereof and at a height with respect to the user that facilitates access to media drives and power switches. In one embodiment, the corner computer workcenter of the present invention includes a first horizontal surface for supporting a computer monitor, a second horizontal surface comprising a work surface located in front of and beneath the first surface, and a third horizontal surface located below the work surface for supporting a computer keyboard and other input devices. A shelf, the vertical height of which may be adjustable, is included for positioning a CPU of the computer just below the monitor and behind the work surface and keyboard support surface so that cables provided with the computer for connecting the monitor, keyboard, and other input devices to the CPU are of sufficient length to serve their intended purpose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Probst
  • Patent number: 6626686
    Abstract: An integrated docking tray assembly capable of docking a portable computer, in particular a laptop or notebook computer, comprising a tray having a docking station integrated therein for docking the portable computer. The tray is mounted underneath a work surface such as a desktop, tabletop, cabinet, shelf, or the like so that it may move between a closed position substantially retracted beneath the surface and an open position at least partially extended from the surface. Thus, when the portable computer is received in the tray and docked to the docking station, its keyboard and display may be accessed for use when the tray is in the open position and stored in the tray underneath the desktop when the tray is in the closed position. The tray may further include a support for providing support to a user's wrists while the user is typing on the keyboard of the computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Gateway, Inc.
    Inventors: Melroy E. D'Souza, Anton R. Poole
  • Patent number: 6619765
    Abstract: A support for a computer monitor and/or central processing unit (CPU) and/or computer keyboard in furniture in which the monitor will be visible through a transparent panel in a working surface, in which the support includes a single beam which can be attached to and detached from legs of a table, extending transversely between the legs when attached. Suspending links can be attached to and detached from the beam to support platforms for the monitor and/or the CPU. The keyboard is connected by links to the platform for the monitor so that when the keyboard support is pulled out for use the monitor is moved into an operative position from an inoperative position in which it is out of the way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventors: Casper Petrus Visser, Ronald William Marnefeldt
  • Patent number: 6621696
    Abstract: A non-screwed fastening device has a retaining ring and a shaft lever. The retaining ring has a first annular edge, an inner ring flange and a second annular edge. The first annular edge has a plurality of slits to make the retaining ring resilient and at least a groove located in the inner surface of the retaining ring. The inner ring flange is disposed in the surface region of the retaining ring for buckling the retaining ring and the shaft lever, and the second annular edge further has a recess region. The shaft lever has a first circular flute, a second circular flute, a first end portion and a second end portion. The first circular flute and the second circular flute are selectively buckled to the inner ring flange by the retaining ring resilience. One side region of the shaft lever having at least a lug is placed into the retaining ring along the groove and the first end portion is put into the locating hole of the peripheral device such that the lug is locked to the recess region for fastening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Quanta Computer, Inc.
    Inventor: Chih-Chong Wang
  • Publication number: 20030168951
    Abstract: A modular furniture system having at least one rail that has a grooved surface, at least one clip adapted to cooperatively engage the grooved surface of the rail(s), a fastener for securing the clip(s) to the rail(s), and at least one fixture mounted over the clip(s) and onto the rail(s). The clip(s) have a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end having two arms facing each other separated by a channel. The arms are capable of being biased toward each other as the clip is inserted into the grooved surface and maintains the clip in the grooved surface after the clip is inserted. The fastener is dimensioned to pass into the channel to secure the clip(s) to the rail(s). Several fixtures can be used with the furniture system to provide a number of different configurations, including surface mounted furniture systems, mobile furniture systems, and furniture systems that are either integral parts of other pieces of furniture or stand alone systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventors: Richard M. Holbrook, Filiberto Betancourt, Jeffrey Bentzler, Darren Mark
  • Patent number: 6618249
    Abstract: A cooling system (27) for use with a storage system (10) having a storage device (18) includes a drive rail (22), a rail channel (24) that is adjacent to and at least partly bounded by the drive rail (22), and a fluid source (20) that provides a fluid to remove heat from the storage system (10). The storage device (18) is coupled to the drive rail (22). As the storage device (18) operates it generates heat. At least a portion of the fluid from the fluid source (20) is moved through the rail channel (24) to remove the heat from the storage system (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Quantum Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Fairchild
  • Patent number: 6614654
    Abstract: A fixing apparatus for data storage devices (80) includes a drive bracket (20) and a fixing plate (40). The drive bracket includes two side panels (22, 24) defining grooves (26) for slidingly receiving screws (82) attached on the storage devices. The fixing plate is attached on one side panel. The fixing plate includes two arcuate handles (50), and two locking parts (54) each having a stop portion (55). In use, a screw of a storage device is sandwiched between the locking parts and blocked by the stop portions from moving out of the drive bracket. The storage device is thereby secured in the drive bracket. In removing the storage device, the handles are squeezed together to cause the locking parts to elastically move away from each other. The screw is thus released from the stop portions, and the storage device is readily slid out from the drive bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yu-Tai Liu, Yun Lung Chen
  • Patent number: 6612665
    Abstract: A unit of furniture, useful as a computer such as a desk, cabinet, or armoire, includes a pullout unit that extends from the unit of furniture. The pullout unit includes a tray for supporting a computer keyboard and mouse. The tray may be covered by a movable lid that provides a first writing surface over the tray when covering the tray and a second writing surface when moved to a position for supporting copy referenced while using the keyboard. The pullout unit may also include an extension unit mounted adjacent to the tray and extendable to provide additional writing surface. The extension unit may include a drawer that extends toward the tray. The pullout unit may include a lid stop to cooperate with the unit of furniture to maintain the pullout unit in a stable extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Aspen Furniture Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Andreas K. Nielsen
  • Publication number: 20030160550
    Abstract: Basically my invention is a computer desk with adjustable height compartment. A computer will sit on the platform of the hydraulic lifting mechanism. The hydraulic lift will raise or lower the computer to allow for a standing position to be obtained or a better sitting position. The lift will be activated by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: Sherrie Rella Godwin
  • Publication number: 20030151336
    Abstract: A computer system is integrated into an item of household furniture so that the computer is readily available for use wherever the furniture is placed, but is concealed within the furniture when it is not in use. The furniture comprises generally conventional cabinetry having the outward appearance of a conventional furniture piece and can be readily incorporated into the interior design of the home. The aesthetics of the room will not be unsatisfactorily impacted by the presence of the computer, thereby facilitating the convenient use of the computer by the occupants of the home. The household furniture can be an entertainment center, a table or upholstered seating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Peter C. Freeman
  • Patent number: 6597568
    Abstract: This invention relates to a briefcase or carrying case for a mobile office, holding a number of interconnected electronic devices (laptop computer, printer, and the like) which may be opened up for immediate use of the devices. A rectangular rigid frame comprises the foundation and ancillary items are fastened to the frame. An enclosing cover having a zipper is also attached to the frame. Shock-absorbing foam and straps are included. An optional wheeled caddie can support the frame using coupling blocks on each side of the frame. When in use, the laptop extends forward from the frame in a low flat position. The printer, held on a second hinged tray, is flipped backwards by 270 degrees over the top of the frame, so that the weight of the printer and the weight of the laptop tend to counterbalance each other and the carrying case is stable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Martin Dennis Henry Ryder
  • Patent number: 6589308
    Abstract: A console for enclosing one or more component elements of a computer system is disclosed. The console includes a cabinet structure which defines an interior space configured to receive one or more component elements of the computer system. The cabinet defines an inlet port and one or more discharge ports. The inlet port is fitted with a fan on the interior surface of a sidewall forming the cabinet. Releasably mounted on the external sidewall which defines the inlet port is a filter positioned to filter air prior to its introduction into the interior space of the cabinet through the inlet port. The filter is adapted to be slidably removed from its association with the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Angelo Gianelo
  • Patent number: 6585203
    Abstract: A flat panel display rack mount is disclosed comprising a bar, two side brackets fastenable to an existing equipment rack and a hanging bracket. The side brackets are fastenable to and equipment rack using existing rack dress screws in the rack. The side brackets are fastenable at any vertical level on the rack. The bar has grooves in both ends that are capable of locking into key lug slots contained in the side brackets. The hanging bracket is formed to match the backside contours of a typical flat panel display and is affixed thereto forming a display and bracket assembly. The hanging bracket has a hook assembly for hanging on the bar. The assembly can slide onto the bar during assembly of the side brackets. The assembly slides either direction and swings upw7ard to allow access to equipment and cables contained in the equipment rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Rick T. Euker
  • Publication number: 20030112591
    Abstract: A computer assembly that is configured as a wall. The computer includes a processor that is located within an inner cavity of a frame. The frame may be covered with a fabric and have a dimensional aspect ratio that simulates a wall. A video screen may be coupled to the frame. A bracket or other fastening system may be employed to mount the frame to another structure such as a wall, or a piece of furniture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Zodnik
  • Publication number: 20030107305
    Abstract: A device for supporting a standard size keyboard tray within an electronics rack or cabinet. The keyboard supporting device includes a slideable shelf and a keyboard tray that is rotatably mounted thereto. The keyboard tray is rotatable between a storage position in which the keyboard tray is substantially perpendicular to the slideable shelf and a use position in which the keyboard tray is substantially parallel to the slideable shelf. A biasing device is included for biasing the keyboard tray toward either the storage position or the use position when the keyboard tray is disposed between the use position and the storage position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventors: Konrad Kusztal, Joseph T. Williamson, James J. MacKle, Stanley Kowalczuk, Sidney Kleiman, Walter J. Hajduk
  • Publication number: 20030085639
    Abstract: A computer monitor support includes a first support immovably connected to a lower side of a desktop, and a second support pivotally connected to the first support via an upper and a lower link to movably located in front of the first support for supporting a computer monitor thereon. The first and the second support, and the upper and the lower link together form a four-bar linkage. A lifting mechanism is connected to the four-bar linkage to lift or lower the second support and to incline the second support downward or upward, respectively, at the same time, so that any user may set the computer monitor on the second support to a vertical position and an angle of elevation most suitable for the user to look at a display on the monitor comfortably and clearly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Shou Ming-Hwa
  • Patent number: 6560093
    Abstract: A computer terminal includes a cabinet having a front portal, and computer hardware mounted therein. A monitor covers the portal and is operatively joined to the hardware by an electrical cable. The monitor is mounted to the portal as a door which may be tilted open for providing convenient access to the computer hardware found therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventors: David G. McLeod, Kevin L. Kamphuis
  • Publication number: 20030080655
    Abstract: A work station that includes a mobile cabinet and a storage compartment. The storage compartment rests on top of the cabinet and is secured to the cabinet. The storage compartment projects beyond a periphery of the topside of the cabinet. The storage compartment includes a bottom, sidewalls and a lid. The bottom may be secured to the topside of the cabinet. The sidewalls extend upwardly from the bottom on three sides. The lid has a front from which extends a front side. The lid may be hinged to two opposing ones of the sidewalls and be swung between an open position and a closed position. Between the lid and the cabinet is a surface with an opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventor: Mark Goldberg