Body Related Patents (Class 108/43)
  • Patent number: 8051514
    Abstract: The invention generally pertains to a pillow convertible between an open position as a food and beverage holder and a closed position as a pillow. By way of example, the pillow has a first and second pillow portion that may be coupled and uncoupled to switch between a closed position and an open position. The pillow also has a food surface member with one or more beverage holders that is sized to fit within the interior of the pillow in the closed position. In another example, the food surface member is a two-piece construction with a slidable tray lock that moves between a first position when the pillow is closed and a second position that secures the two pieces together as a substantially coplanar surface when the pillow is open. In yet another example, the beverage holder is tapered so as to fit a variety of sizes of beverage containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventors: Daniel A. Yarmer, Jay Brock Matthews, Lawrence M. Pelletier
  • Patent number: 8025016
    Abstract: A laptop computer desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: Paul Adams
  • Publication number: 20110200219
    Abstract: Platforms for laptop computers can include one or more cooling features. In some arrangements, a platform includes a support body that has upper and lower panels that at least partially define an interior cavity. A ventilation plate can be disposed in the upper surface of the support body, and can have a plurality of ventilation holes that are in fluid communication with the interior cavity. In some arrangements, the upper panel is angled relative to the lower panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: TARGUS GROUP INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Damien Vizcarra, Kevin Robert Young, Kevin Gallagher
  • Patent number: 7992502
    Abstract: An inflatable laptop desk includes an inflatable base and a horizontal platform mounted to the base for supporting a laptop computer or other device. The base includes one or more valves that allow the base to be selectively inflated for mounting upon a user's lap and deflated for transportation and storage. An optional storage case may be incorporated into the desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Robert Davis
  • Publication number: 20110185951
    Abstract: A portable and environmentally-friendly lap tray to support items for a seated individual includes a storage surface surrounded by retaining walls. The lap tray includes hinged support wings on the bottom surface to extend between a user's legs. The wings are set apart from one another in an ergonomically preferable position to allow any person to comfortably use the lap tray when seated. Alternatively, the lap tray may be used as a stand. The lap tray may be personalized or customized for particular events with various indicia and add-ons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: Todd M. Aguayo
  • Patent number: 7975623
    Abstract: A serving tray that enhances tray-stabilizing features useful to a server's abilities to load, carry, and unload a serving tray depending upon the specifics of the serving situation. The serving tray is stackable, assists drying, bacterial-growth minimizing, and jack-stand nesting. The serving tray provides for easy gripping and added stability by either right or left-handed users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventors: Robert Gassick, Kristin N. Gassick
  • Patent number: 7963233
    Abstract: A mouse pad includes a pad plate and a rotary massage device disposed on a side of the pad plate. The massage device includes a massage head and a wheel box fixed on the pad plate. A motor and a transmission mechanism driven by the motor are mounted in the wheel box. The massage head connects with the transmission mechanism so as to be rotated and extends above the wheel box for massaging the operator's wrist. In a preferable embodiment, the transmission mechanism includes a worm, a double-gear and a gear wheel. The worm is disposed on an output shaft of the motor and engages with the double-gear, the double-gear engages with the gear wheel, and the massage head connects with the gear wheel. Such mouse pad not only has the functions as the conventional mouse pad has, but also can massage the operator's wrist to ease the weariness of the wrist while operating a computer mouse thereon, thus to achieve a health care effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: Chichun Wu
  • Patent number: 7926429
    Abstract: An angle-adjustable heat-dissipating pad for a portable computer conforms to the ergonomics and includes: a plate provided with a guiding slot and fixing troughs, both sides of the guiding slot being provided with a plurality of positioning regions; a support provided with a positioning post, the positioning post passing through the guiding slot with the support being detachably assembled in the guiding slot of the plate to support the plate; and a supporting pad passing through the fixing trough and connected to the bottom of the plate, thereby preventing the articles on the plate form sliding. With the positioning post of the support being positioned in the positioning region in a multi-stage manner, the plate on the support can be positioned at a plurality of angles. Furthermore, the supporting pad can support the elbow of a user and conform to the ergonomics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Cooler Master Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chia-Jung Wu
  • Publication number: 20110056413
    Abstract: A travel lap desk has a foam wedge that rests on, and is removably coupled to, a deformable pad. A first magnetic element is attached to the underside of the foam wedge and a second magnetic element is attached to the upper surface of the deformable pad. These magnetic elements are positioned to removably couple the foam wedge to the top of the deformable pad. The foam wedge is sufficiently stiff to provide a writing surface and yet is sufficiently compliant to deform when impacted by the user without causing injury to the user. The foam wedge may be covered with a washable material that may be removable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Scott E. Andochick
  • Publication number: 20100326330
    Abstract: Articles for supporting computers on users' laps and for isolating the users from heat from the computers. Embodiments may include a body, a top surface for contacting the computer, a bottom surface for contacting the user's lap, and back and front walls or surfaces. In various embodiments, the body defines a hollow area and a side opening, the back is taller than the front, the top surface is at an acute angle to the bottom surface, the bottom surface has a greater horizontal dimension from front to back than the top surface, the bottom surface has a greater horizontal dimension from left to right than the top surface; the article has a cross section that is a trapezoid (e.g., isosceles), the article comprises a foam portion (e.g., tubular) and fabric covering the foam portion, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, each surface comprises the foam covered with fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Barry Sween, Richard J. Elgie
  • Publication number: 20100307385
    Abstract: A Portable Computer Table with Clear Reading and Writing Surface provides a clear planar support with cooling slots for a computer. A clear elevated horizontal work space above the computer holds work materials and provides a writing surface. Clear vertical supports work with the clear elevated horizontal work space to restrain access to the user interface of the computer from third parties like children and pets. A small footprint space is designed for the computer user who desires to have the flexibility to work in small spaces while still retaining noncomputer workspace in close proximity to the computer. Indented edges on the planar bases reduce blind spots and improve access to the user interface of the portable computer. Access openings allow users to access peripheral ports and drives. The assembly has optional hinged sides so the assembly can collapse to take up less space during storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: LAP SOLUTIONS LLC
    Inventors: David Scott Raney, Monica Emi Raney
  • Patent number: 7823518
    Abstract: A desk for use in supporting a computer and/or computer-related devices includes a base adapted to rest on a support surface such as a floor, in combination with an upwardly extending support that defines a lower end interconnected with the base and an upper end spaced vertically above the lower end. A desk top member is secured to the upper end of the support. The upwardly extending support and the desk top member are configured and arranged such that the desk top member is located forwardly of the rear area of the base, and to define an open area below the desk top member between the desk top member and the base. The base can be moved on the support surface to position the desk top member over a user's lap when the user is in a seated position. The desk may include a base pivot connection between the base and the upwardly extending support, and a desk top pivot connection between the desk top and the upwardly extending support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Conceptual Furniture, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas L. Phillips
  • Patent number: 7806059
    Abstract: A substantially planar body, which can be coupled with elongated members on opposite ends of the planar body forming handles. The planar body has a first side and a second side, where the first side can have an anti-static layer or protrusions, and a layer made of a material to disperse the heat from an object placed on it, and the second side can be made of a material with a low coefficient of friction to allow the body to move across a surface with minimal resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Alison Bolton
  • Patent number: 7806305
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a redesigned food tray that is supported by the user's shoulders. The food tray features a two-part tray system that when folded out resembles a circle. The outer tray of the two-part tray system features two cup holders, and rotates about the center of the two-part tray system. When the outer tray is folded up, the cup holders retract. A bib-like cover attaches to the shoulder straps and prevents food and/or beverages to spill on the end user. The inner tray features a lip, which prevents spill from food and/or beverage to reach the user's lap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventors: Nathaniel Moore, Jr., Miriam Moore, Lee V Moore
  • Publication number: 20100236452
    Abstract: A Waist-supported Writing Surface in the short term clipped or clamped by hand to clothes or material about a person's waist line, preferred location or equivalent bodily structure. Hand operated and body having hingedly collapsible surface(s) for holding working papers and the like is connected hingedly to a support member, primarily to be used when collapsible planar horizontal surface(s) are open and support member is used, to read and write while walking, sitting, standing and talking on phone. Supporting and or storing utensils, accessories and numerous forms of writing and reading media one's self, including, but not limited to paper, a notebook, a book, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Daniel James Ruddy
  • Publication number: 20100133268
    Abstract: A device for blind retrieval of food is provided, the device having a single semi-rigid band with an opening, elastically conformable for attachment to a human thigh. A mount is disposed on the band, perpendicular to the opening. A food container having a ridge on the upper surface and a recessed surface on the lower surface, the recessed surface corresponding and conforming with said ridge of the upper surface. A connector is disposed in the recessed surface of the food container where the connector is slidably attachable to the mount of the band. The relative width between mount and the connector varies, providing a wedging or cinching effect upon sliding-attachment of the connector to the mount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Peter Miller
  • Patent number: 7637218
    Abstract: An apparatus for storage of cargo items is worn by a user. An upper end of the apparatus is secured to a belt of the user and a lower end is secured to a leg of the user. A continuous perimeter zipper with two zipper closure tabs allows versatility in opening an exterior portion apart from a main portion while preventing the exterior portion from being separated apart from the main portion. A pair of horizontal pockets face each other and allow ambidextrous usage. Interior pockets that open and close at either end allow usage in either a right side up or upside down orientation of the exterior portion. A pair of interior pockets can be opened so as to provide extended storage room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher Sebastian Burton
  • Patent number: 7621499
    Abstract: An adjustable mouse lap pad has a working platform with flat upper and lower surfaces. Two sets of dual tracks are secured to the lower surface, each track set having two track members with teeth. Four pad supporting saddle elements are configured for comfortable placement on the lap of the user. The saddle elements are positioned within the sets of tracks. Each saddle element has teeth which engage with the teeth of the track members. The saddle elements are biasedly controlled, by push button activation, to move along the tracks and, at desired locations on the lower surface, to be locked in position within the teeth of the track members. This securely maintains the saddle elements under the platform, eliminating unwanted shifting and movement while the pad is on the thigh or lap of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Alex Hovsepian, Justin Hovsepian
  • Publication number: 20090272779
    Abstract: A foldable portable universal laptop computer holder and harness for hands-free mobile use of a laptop while standing or walking is provided and includes a laptop tray frame, a tray arm connected to said tray frame for supporting a laptop computer, a torso bar pivotally connected to said tray arm, wherein said tray arm can pivot up essentially parallel in position to said torso bar and can pivot down essentially perpendicular in position to said torso bar, a chest support connected to said torso bar, one or more housings attached to said chest support wherein said housings can adjustably slide in relation to said chest support, and shoulder supports pivotally connected to said housings wherein said shoulder supports can pivot laterally in relation to said housings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Phuong Dinh Vu
  • Publication number: 20090265050
    Abstract: An aircraft pilot kneeboard is provided including a bottom member having an inner compartment. A top member is connected to the bottom member by a first axle. Flanges extend outwardly from the bottom member. Straps are attached to the flanges. Springs are located in the flanges for holding writing instruments. The springs have turns distanced less than a diameter of the writing instruments. Clamps are located at lower and upper edges of the top member. A tiltable surface is connected to an upper surface of the second clamp by a second axle. The second axle extends widthwise across the kneeboard. The kneeboard further includes a light emitting diode for lighting a top surface of the top member. The kneeboard further includes an interactive screen attached to the tiltable surface for providing a military moving map and a brownout/obscured landing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Douglas Burpee
  • Publication number: 20090229497
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing a laptop computer to a users leg includes a base having apertures on opposing lateral sidewalls. A frictional material is applied to a top and bottom surface of the base for limiting slip between the base, the laptop computer and the user's leg. A first strap includes a first buckle and a surface having a self-attachment means where the first strap is inserted in one of the apertures with the first buckle above the top surface. A second strap includes a second buckle and a surface including a self-attachment means where the second strap is inserted in another of the apertures on the opposing sidewall with the second buckle below the bottom surface, the second strap is passed through the first buckle for securing the laptop computer and the first strap is passed through the second buckle for securing to the users leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: Alfredo Persico, Patricia A. Persico
  • Patent number: 7536960
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a base that has a thermo-resistive top surface and oppositely seated edges that have apertures formed therein. A top casing has an inner perimeter aligned above the base and maintains a fixed elevated spatial relationship therewith. The top casing has holes formed along an outer perimeter thereof, and is formed from non-conductive and transparent material. Elongated pegs have bores formed therethrough and have opposed ends coupled to a top casing bottom surface and a base top surface. The axial bores are aligned with the apertures and the holes for receiving fasteners therethrough. The portable computer is nested on the base and interfitted between the inner perimeter of the top casing such that the portable computer is advantageously restricted from moving. The portable computer is spaced from the user's genitalia such that heat generated from the portable computer is dissipated away from the user's genitalia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventors: Enrique Perez, Marcos Perez
  • Publication number: 20090078170
    Abstract: A mouse pad includes a pad plate and a rotary massage device disposed on a side of the pad plate. The massage device includes a massage head and a wheel box fixed on the pad plate. A motor and a transmission mechanism driven by the motor are mounted in the wheel box. The massage head connects with the transmission mechanism so as to be rotated and extends above the wheel box for massaging the operator's wrist. In a preferable embodiment, the transmission mechanism includes a worm, a double-gear and a gear wheel. The worm is disposed on an output shaft of the motor and engages with the double-gear, the double-gear engages with the gear wheel, and the massage head connects with the gear wheel. Such mouse pad not only has the functions as the conventional mouse pad has, but also can massage the operator's wrist to ease the weariness of the wrist while operating a computer mouse thereon, thus to achieve a health care effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Chichun Wu
  • Publication number: 20090065391
    Abstract: A food or drink tray is provided that includes a substrate having a curvilinear perimeter. The substrate has a top surface and bottom surface each extending along a first longitudinal axis and a second lateral axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The tray also has a rotatable handle hingedly coupled to an edge of the substrate. The handle is rotatable between at least two stable positions. Also, the handle has a cross section with at least one of an oblong, an obround, an oval and a crescent configuration. The tray also includes a rib coupled to a peripheral edge of the tray and extends away from the tray in a direction substantially opposite relative to the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Ben L. McEwin, Mike McEwin
  • Publication number: 20080282940
    Abstract: A mobile device bed desk both functional and decorative. An inverted yoke shaped platform of some thickness supported by it's own legs and additional legs inserted into openings at varying locations so as to give opportunity for adjustment for angle and height of the working plane of the platform and thereby placing the attached optional device at an optimal position for use. The platform is provided with cutout openings and access slots in various locations to provide a convenient option for positioning and holding electrical and peripheral device cords associated with the operation of the attached optional device. In addition said platform is provided with cutout opening at strategic locations to facilitate the cooling of the attached optional device. Applied to the surface of the platform at various locations is a textured material to allow the possible use of a computer human interface device (computer mouse).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Jay Stuart Marion
  • Publication number: 20080202390
    Abstract: A table may include a table top and one or more legs or support pedestals. The table may also include one or more handles that may enhance the portability of the table. For example, if the table is a fold-in-half table, then the table top may include first and second sections that may be moved between an folded position and an unfolded position. The handle may include first and second sections that are connected to the first and second sections of the table top. The first and second sections of the handle may be collectively grasped, which may help prevent the table top from unintentionally unfolding. The table top may also include receiving portions that are sized configured to receive one or more portions of the handle. This may allow, for example, at least a substantial portion of the handle to be disposed in receiving portions when the handle is in a retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventors: Paul Branch, Ed VanNimwegen
  • Publication number: 20080173218
    Abstract: A subject loading system is provided for moving a subject disposed in an isolation zone into and out of a diagnostic system disposed outside the isolation zone. A tube extends away from the isolation zone. The tube has an inner volume open to the isolation zone and operatively coupled with the diagnostic system. An elongated subject support pallet is disposed in the isolation zone and dimensioned to fit into the tube. A base including a mechanical drive is disposed in the isolation zone and is configured to align the elongated subject support pallet with the tube and to move the elongated subject support pallet into and out of the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Zhengyan WANG, Steven J. PLUMMER, Jacin C. BARNES, Matthew D. FLEISCHHAUER, Michael G. AMBROSIA, Dennis K. EVERETT, Robert G. HENDERSON
  • Patent number: 7398572
    Abstract: A decorative pillow desktop system comprises a soft cushion top, which reveals, when opened, a notepad, light and pen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Kyrsten Ann Braun
  • Publication number: 20080136108
    Abstract: The present invention provides a modular gaming table comprising: (a) a modular table top comprising a main table surface having a top side and a bottom side; (b) at least one personal player area module receiving area; (c) at least one personal player area module insertably integral with the table top, the personal player area module having a top module side and a bottom module side, the top module side being about approximately flush with the table top surface in the horizontal plane; (d) a subsurface having a top side and a bottom side, wherein the subsurface top side is attachable to the main table surface bottom side; (e) a surface-subsurface attachment means; (f) a trim ring positioned approximately around the outer perimeter of the table top in the horizontal plane; (g) personal player area module attachment means. According to a preferred embodiment, the personal player area module is slidably insertable into the tabletop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew Polay
  • Patent number: 7329003
    Abstract: The apparatus provides an improved modified slit lamp assembly light source base and vertical support frame assemblies comprising chin and headrest vertical support legs wherein at least a lower portion of the chin rest vertical supports have been modified in at least a substantially widened fashion. The lower portion of the supports is further modified to jut back or bend away from a seated patient and toward the encroaching base of the slit lamp assembly to provide upper body accommodation while at the same time preventing a patient's upper body to encroach the base of the slit lamp. The assembly's chin/head support frame is mounted on a pivotal tabletop having a pivotal connection means, wherein the pivotal tabletop comprises a plurality of cut-out shapes each working in cooperative conjunction with the modified assemblies to accommodate obese, large-breasted patients and patients with degenerative back disorders, as well as obese doctors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Occhi Sani, LLC
    Inventor: Angela E. Nicolini
  • Patent number: 7322063
    Abstract: A cushioning and support device includes a unitary member having a predetermined size, a pair of cavities formed in a first surface of such unitary member for ergonomic engagement with at least one portion of a human body and a plurality of longitudinal grooves formed in an opposed second surface of such unitary member in a direction perpendicular to a direction of the pair of cavities for providing air ventilation under a load placed onto the second surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Ifeanyi Esimai
  • Patent number: 7293751
    Abstract: An adjustable support for a portable computer or the like having a main or center board, side boards, and cylindrical stackers interconnecting them. The device is designed to hold a portable computer on the main board and to dispose it weightlessly in the lap area of a seated user by means of the side boards resting on the arms of the easy chair, or couch or sofa on which the user is seated. The distance between the side boards and the main board of the device may be varied by changing the number of stackers each of which have mating male and female ends to enable interconnecting them. The main board and the sideboards may have through-holes of two different diameters each: a larger one for receiving and rendering flush the head of a nut or bolt cooperating with a respective stacker end to secure the stacker rigidly to the board; a smaller one for snugly receiving reduced portion of the nut or bolt. The larger diameter portions of the through-holes only penetrate halfway through the boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Bo Goran Eriksson
  • Patent number: 7275724
    Abstract: A laptop computer support platform including a rigid, multilayered assembly with a thermal insulator disposed between a generally planar upper side and a lower side defined by the assembly for reducing heat transference from a computer adapted to be supported on the upper side of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventor: Jeffrey N. Ward
  • Patent number: 7249747
    Abstract: A portable rest device for a laptop computer is made of a thermally-conductive material, and comprises a top face for receiving the laptop computer and a bottom heat-dissipating three-dimensional pattern. Due to this design, the portable rest device dissipates 1) the heat generated by the laptop computer and captured by the top face, and 2) the heat generated by the user when the bottom heat-dissipating three-dimensional pattern is disposed on the user's lap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: University of Ontario Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Richard J. Marceau, Réal Brousseau, Jacques Hallée, Danielle Barrette, Martin Brouillette
  • Patent number: 7240623
    Abstract: The disclosure describes is a portable activity surface with foam construction with various utilitarian features and configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventors: Joseph M. Jarke, Joseph M. Jarke, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7204193
    Abstract: The mobile holding apparatus has a support plate which has an upper side with a work surface and a lower side and is mounted height-adjustably on a stand. The stand is free-standing and the support plate has a guide with which it is guided on the stand. A gas spring arranged in the stand supports the upward movement of the support plate. Loading of the support plate is taken up by self-locking of the guide and in particular by canting of a profiled piece in a guide groove. The holding apparatus makes possible ergonomic positioning of a work aid, for example a laptop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: INOTOP AG
    Inventors: Ernst Scherrer, Peter Meier
  • Patent number: 7156026
    Abstract: An ergonomically contoured frame for accommodating a person in a seated position includes an upper section carried by a base section. The base section includes upwardly extending legs, while the upper section includes downwardly extending legs for adjustably interconnecting with the upwardly extending legs to vary the height of the controller stand to accommodate different players. The base section includes a generally U-shaped base carrying the upwardly extending legs. The upper section has a generally U-shaped top integral with and interconnecting the downwardly extending legs. A foot controller platform is carried by the base section for carrying a foot controller for a video game. A hand controller platform is carried by the upper section for carrying a hand controller for a video game. Securing members are carried by the platforms for securing the controllers to each platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: W. Richard McClellion
  • Patent number: 7150236
    Abstract: A portable writing platform adapted to be used with a book includes a generally planar base adapted to be positioned around a portion of the book, an attachment member adapted for removably attaching the base to the book, a writing surface, and an adjustable attachment between the writing surface and the generally planar base. The adjustable attachment enables the writing surface to move between a stored position wherein the writing surface is adjacent the generally planar base, and an extended position wherein the writing surface extends outwardly from the generally planar base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Inventor: Alan E. Riley
  • Patent number: 7121214
    Abstract: A portable desk for a laptop computer or similar device. The desk has a rigid panel with a central cutout. Pads are provided on the top surface to receive the computer case to provide friction. Cushions on the underside of the panel engage and stabilize the desk on the user's legs in a sitting position. A mouse pad is hinged to the desk and in a stored position is received in the center cutout and may be deployed to a position adjacent the desk when in use. Heat is dissipated through the central cutout and also along air troughs between the bottom of the case and upper surface of the desk. In one embodiment, the desk may be provided with folding legs which may be deployed to impart an inclination to the working surface. The desk is compact, lightweight and can be conveniently stored in a carrying case alongside the computer when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Juggernaut Design, LLC AZ limited liability company
    Inventors: Randall R. Toltzman, Thomas P. Muday
  • Patent number: 7096797
    Abstract: A portable collapsible table or tray having multiple wooden panels hinged to each other from underneath by a piece of fabric. The panels fold in a zigzag manner into a compact, folded form which is easily carried in a bag. The panels are secured to form a rigid table surface by inserting removable support rods laterally and crosswise through the wooden panels. The end panels each receive a locking rod at its respective outer side. Support panels having handle cutouts and legs are attached at each end of the table by hinges. These support panels have bores therethrough for inserting the support pins, and are thus locked in place, along with the wooden surface panels when the rods are inserted. The support panels fold with the surface panels when the support rods are removed forming a compact configuration. A game board version without support panels is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventors: Melanie A. Sharpe, Anton J. Sharpe
  • Patent number: 7059253
    Abstract: A table adapted for a home appliance, such as a microwave oven, wherein the volume under the table is efficiently utilized to house the appliance. The table can be removed, used, and then returned and efficiently stored surrounding the appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Pung Yeun Cho
  • Patent number: 7055442
    Abstract: A portable desk including a base having a bottom surface forming a plurality of storage compartments which define a storage space. A top portion is hingedly attached to the base and movable between an open position and a closed position. Legs are positioned at opposing end portions of the base and connected to the base to pivotally move with respect to the base between a retracted position and an extended position. Each leg preferably has an outer surface that forms a recessed, concave portion. At least one snap element locks each leg with respect to the base in the extended position and includes a tab section formed on a bottom surface of the base which interferes with or engages a support edge formed at an end portion of a corresponding leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Senario LLC
    Inventors: George O. Podd, Michael L. Nakamura, James D. Morrow
  • Patent number: 6986308
    Abstract: A food service and dining tray having a smooth upper surface, opposing end panels that provide sturdy handles, a perimeter rim with a minimum height dimension of approximately one inch extending between the end panels, a removable high-friction mat, and a yielding bottom portion filled with granular and/or soft material that conforms to the configuration of the surface or lap upon which it is placed. Optionally, the serving tray may have a detachable self-contained bottom portion, a perimeter groove for food crumbs and/or mat storage, and one or more recessed areas in its upper surface for maintaining a container holding an easily spilled food or beverage in a substantially upright and fixed position. Also, the mat may have thermal properties that protect the upper tray surface from damage during repeated use with hot food containers and/or help food containers to maintain elevated and chilled temperatures during transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventors: Anthony John King, Maureen Elizabeth King
  • Patent number: 6984066
    Abstract: A small surgical table which can be attached directly to a C-arm X-ray machine. A flat plate of X-ray transparent material is provided as a surface on which surgical procedures can be performed. Clamping features are provided on the underside of this plate to allow its attachment to an image intensifier or an emitter of a C-arm machine. The clamping features are preferably made readily adjustable in order to allow the attachment of the surgical table to a wide variety of X-ray machines. The invention is particularly suited for surgeries involving a small portion of the anatomy—such as the hand. The direct attachment of the surgical table to the X-ray machine allows the surgeon to conveniently visualize the internal placement of orthopaedic hardware and other features both before and during the surgery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventor: Andrew H. Borom
  • Patent number: 6957612
    Abstract: A raised lap top work surface utilizes a concave area for comfortable use and positioning on a user's legs. V-shaped arching leg support surfaces provide reliable positioning of the raised lap top work surface on the user's lap. The raised lap top work surface has a raised working surface level located at the proper sight distance for reading or writing. A large cover gives the user a surface area large enough to display any reference material needed and still have ample room for writing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Inventor: Ralph B. Conlee
  • Patent number: 6894894
    Abstract: A base for a laptop computer. In one embodiment, the base has an upper surface with a keyboard and a lower surface opposite the upper surface. The lower surface may have two depressions extending from a forward edge to a rear edge of the lower surface. The depressions are configured to engage both the upper and side surfaces of the user's legs in a manner that restricts relative motion between the base and the user's legs. In one embodiment, the depressions may have a rough texture and/or a skid-resistant material to further restrict motion of the base relative to the user's legs. In another embodiment, first and second support members may be movably attached to the base to move from a stowed position to an unstowed position for providing more surface area to engage the user's legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Lynne Zarek, Paul T. Parker, John M. Wechkin
  • Publication number: 20040261668
    Abstract: The invention is a portable activity surface with foam construction with various utilitarian features and configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph M. Jarke, Joseph M. Jarke
  • Publication number: 20040250738
    Abstract: A raised lap top work surface utilizes a concave area for comfortable use and positioning on a user's legs. V-shaped arching leg support surfaces provide reliable positioning of the raised lap top work surface on the user's lap. The raised lap top work surface has a raised working surface level located at the proper sight distance for reading or writing. A large cover gives the user a surface area large enough to display any reference material needed and still have ample room for writing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: December 16, 2004
    Inventor: Ralph B. Conlee
  • Publication number: 20040226485
    Abstract: The mobile holding apparatus has a support plate which has an upper side with a work surface and a lower side and is mounted height-adjustably on a stand. The stand is free-standing and the support plate has guide means with which it is guided on the stand. A gas spring arranged in the stand supports the upward movement of the support plate. Loading of the support plate is taken up by self-locking of the guide means and in particular by canting of a profiled piece in a guide groove. The holding apparatus makes possible ergonomic positioning of a work aid, for example a laptop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Applicant: INOTOP AG
    Inventors: Ernst Scherrer, Peter Meier
  • Patent number: 6776104
    Abstract: A stand to position the driving module for a video game has a support platform. The support platform arranges the support column, and an adjustable plane to position the accelerator module and a lever to allow the support column to be turned. The top end of the hollow support column has a support base with a reversible attachment for the driving module. The hollow support column provides a convenient way of keeping the interconnection wires in an isolated place. One embodiment of the Improved Stand provides a support for a video monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventor: Jerry Herbst