Abstract: Stacked computer modules are mechanically and electrically interlocked by relative rotation between a top plate of a lower module and a bottom plate of an upper module. Each module has a unique shape that identifies it as being compatible with other modules of the same shape. A pair of diametrically opposed sockets extend radially from a central hub that depends from a vent aperture formed in the bottom plate of the top unit. Upon rotation of the upper unit, these sockets respectively engage a pair of diametrically opposed plugs secured to a bottom wall of the top plate of the lower module. The interconnection of sockets and plugs provides electrical and data communication between the modules as well as a mechanical interconnection. One socket/plug combination is dedicated to power and the other socket/plug combination is dedicated to data.

Abstract: A connector having apertures to be used to secure different pieces of construction material in relation to each other is provided with structure to hold a nail thereto. This structure permits the nail to be brought into selective alignment with the aperture allowing the nail to be driven home without the workman holding the nail. The invention includes aperture engagement structure which is located in the aperture of the connector. The nail is held in a fastener engagement structure, which has the structure of a sleeve. The fastener engagement structure is attached to the aperture engagement structure on their common first side by a hinge. The fastener engagement structure further has a male portion located on its second side. The aperture engagement structure further has a female portion located on its second side. In a first configuration, the nails are held flat against the body of the connector.

Abstract: An improved connector with integrally attached fasteners is disclosed. In the embodiments described, the fasteners are nails and they are held in a sleeve. A flexible member attaches this sleeve to the body of the connector. In a first shipping or storage configuration, the fasteners are held flat against the body of the device. When it is desired to drive the fastener, a user moves one or more of the fasteners into a second, upright position. This aligns the fastener with the aperture present on the connector and the user then drives the nail home. Various rivet type attachments may be employed to secure the sleeve assembly to the apertures present on the connector through which the nail is driven. Additionally, the sleeve may include a corrugated interior to assist in gripping the nail more firmly in place. In another embodiment, this sleeve may be scored so that as the nail is driven, the sleeve splits and falls out of the way.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing and assembling a computer system from modular parts that are vertically stacked relative to one another. Each module has a predetermined geometrical configuration and interlocks only with other modules of the same geometrical configuration. Computer components are housed within modules of predetermined geometrical configuration so that a consumer purchasing a computer system by purchasing modules need only match module shapes to ensure component compatibility. A consumer may purchase a first module containing a computer component of the consumer's choice and complete a computer system of compatible components by purchasing additional modules having the same shape as the first module. In a preferred embodiment, each component is operated by a dedicated processing unit ("DPU") and operating system dedicated to it to avoid the limitations of computer systems that rely upon general purpose operating systems.

Abstract: A computer is formed from modular parts that are vertically stacked relative to one another so that even a casual observer may become aware of all of the components of the observed computer system. Each part has a predetermined geometrical configuration and will interlock only with other parts of the same geometrical configuration. In this way, manufacturers of computer components may make parts that are compatible with one another in a common geometrical configuration so that a consumer buying a component need only match shapes to ensure compatibility. An added advantage of the structure is that it enables computer owners to visually display their computer components to their friends and associates, in contrast to present computer housings that hide components and make highly advanced computers look much like their outdated predecessors. A bus interconnects all components and a cooling shaft delivers cooling air to all components.

Abstract: An apparatus for displaying eyeglass frames includes an elongate square channel-shaped base member that includes a flat bottom wall, a rear wall and a front wall. The rear and front wall are parallel to one another and accommodate therebetween the free ends of the temple pieces of a plurality of eyeglass frames that are positioned along the extent of the base member. The front wall has a greater height than the rear wall so that the temple pieces are maintained in a horizontal plane when the rear wall of the base member is secured to a vertical support surface. The spacing between the rear wall and the front wall is predetermined in accordance with the respective heights of the front and rear walls to prevent the free ends of the temple pieces from falling out.