Armrest Or Headrest Patents (Class 248/118)
  • Patent number: 7169086
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for teaching the proper position of a user's wrist while paying the piano. The device includes a rod and two supports. The rod is long enough to span the length of a piano keyboard. The rod is deployed in a way that encourages proper positioning of the wrist by simply occupying the space that would otherwise be occupied by an incorrectly positioned wrist. The two support pieces are positioned at both ends of the keyboard and fit snugly over its surface. A trough for supporting the weight of the piano rod is configured into each of the support pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Inventors: Gail Michelson, Bruce Maurer
  • Patent number: 7157633
    Abstract: A simulated stringed musical instrument practice device having integrally formed longitudinal ridges simulating strings is herein disclosed. The present invention generally comprises an elongated section of material that is similar in shape to the neck of a conventional stringed instrument. The elongated section has a flat surface fashioned thereon having transverse ridges simulating frets as well as longitudinal ridges integrally attached thereto simulating strings. The frets are spaced progressively longer distances apart in order to more accurately simulate the fret board of a conventional stringed instrument. Optionally, the present invention may also provide utility as a computer keyboard wrist rest. Non-slip footings are provided for attachment to the flat surface in order to provide for secure placement adjacent the keyboard of a computer in a manner similar to conventional wrist rests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: Richard Martin Kopesec
  • Patent number: 7077457
    Abstract: A detachable support for an animal riding in a vehicle includes first and second substantially parallel plate-form members connected together at respective upper edges to form a hook structure that is adapted to tit over a window glass of the vehicle when the window glass extends upward from a sill of a window opening to a partially open position, with the first plate-form member being outside the vehicle and the second plate form member being inside the vehicle, whereby the support rests on the sill and is retained in position by engagement of the hook structure with the window glass. A third plate-form member extends inward from a lower edge of the second plate-form member, substantially perpendicular to the second plate-form member, whereby the third member forms a shelf extending inward from the sill. A layer of gripping material is adhered to an upper surface of the third plate-form member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: Robert R. Polette
  • Patent number: 7070237
    Abstract: A universal headrest mounting collar which is engaged with the rods of a headrest on a vehicle seat back and supports a video monitor thereon for viewing by a passenger in a rear seat. The bracket can be secured at a fixed vertical position on the headrest rods and collar assemblies surrounding the rods are horizontally slidable in grooves formed in the base of the bracket assembly to accommodate different spacing between headrest rods by different vehicle manufacturers. The monitor mounting element is universally adjustable to modify the viewing angle of the monitor screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Epsilon Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Sohail Rochel
  • Patent number: 7044425
    Abstract: An integrated keyboard platform and document support includes a base and a keyboard support member having an upper surface. The keyboard support member is movably mounted to the base to provide adjustment through a plurality of positions of the keyboard support member. An integral document holder includes a groove having a curved shape in plan view and located in the upper surface of the keyboard support member. The groove defines an engagement surface engagable with a bottom edge of the document and defining a plane of engagement. The plane of engagement is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the support surface, and is inclined substantially level or rearwardly downward throughout the plurality of positions whereby a document may be held substantially vertical or inclined rearwardly in the curved groove throughout the plurality of positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: David K. Jones, Joseph D. Ruedinger
  • Patent number: 7031036
    Abstract: A bracing apparatus adopted for bracing an upper casing, pivotally engaged with a lower casing with electronic elements inside, of hatch-top electronic devices facilitate repairs and maintenance of the electronic elements in the lower casing. The bracing apparatus includes a first and a second linkage bar and an elastic element. The first linkage bar is remote from the pivotal joint of the upper and the lower casing, connects to the upper casing and pivotally connects to the second linkage bar. The second linkage bar connects to the lower casing. The pivotal connection end of the first and the second linkage bars is directing outwards from the neighboring sides of the upper casing and the lower casing. The elastic element connects to the upper casing abutting the pivotal joint of the upper casing and the lower casing, and the pivotal connection end of the first and the second linkage bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Lite-On Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Min Chao
  • Patent number: 7025310
    Abstract: A mouse rest for hand and wrist device for reducing repetitive stress injuries from extended use of a computer mouse device is disclosed which includes a hand and wrist support region consisting of a resting plate, generally square in shape, having three square corners and one outwardly rounded corner. The resting plate has a top and bottom surface and is elevated by at least three posts attached at the square corners and extending downward to a nonskid pad. A nonskid pad is affixed to a base. The computer mouse device is placed under the resting plate at the rounded corner and the user accesses the mouse with fingers only while the hand and wrist remain on a horizontal plane and totally relaxed on the resting plate. The disclosed device eliminates all upward or downward flexion of the users wrist which is a main cause of repetitive stress injuries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Jae Bouchard
  • Patent number: 6981735
    Abstract: An auto comfort pad to be utilized in various applications, such as, pad for a center console in a vehicle, armrest, and leg pad for a side door. The comfort pad with three portions, all three portions are attached with the first portion resting along a pivot point from the second and third portion. The second and third portion with a triangular groove to rest over a rubber protective piece on a car window. The second portion on top of the first portion while the window is in a down position since the second and third portion can rotate in a counter clockwise direction along the pivot point. In contrast, the first, second and third portion to rest on an interior side of a car door while the window is in an up position. A felt like material on an exterior side of a plastic support for the pad to protect the car window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: Aaron Stephens
  • Patent number: 6973691
    Abstract: A portable, elongated support pillow that when propped between the chin and lap of the user limits both head and torso movements caused by resting or sleeping while sitting in an upright position. The pillow is a single unit having a top contour, a bottom contour and a center section. The top contour is a crescent shaped headrest that cradles the chin and face, the bottom contour conforms to the top of the user's thigh, and the center section connects the top contour to the bottom contour. The top and bottom sections have a wider width than the center section giving the pillow an hourglass-shape. The support pillow is encased in a cover having sling style pockets, adapted to accommodate a user's arms or a strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventors: Lora May Cordova, Richard Patrick Cordova
  • Patent number: 6962311
    Abstract: A platform for a computer input device includes a deck having a top surface on which an associated data input device can be selectively positioned and a bottom surface. Also provided is a base having a top surface, and a bottom surface that rests on a user's thigh. A fastening device, such as hook and loop fasteners or a screw, could be used to secure these two elements together. The deck can be selectively detached from the base in order to reverse its orientation with regard to the base and allow the platform to be switched from one thigh of the user to the other. A structure for preventing the input device from falling off the platform can be included. A rest for an operator's appendage can be located on the deck top surface. The height and angle of inclination of the deck can be adjusted, if desired, in relation to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Inventor: Thomas D. Sykes
  • Patent number: 6951325
    Abstract: A forearm and wrist support apparatus for keyboard operators. The support apparatus attaches to a working surface and provides a comfortable resting place for the forearms of the keyboard operator. A supporting base of the apparatus comprises of a rigid lower member, side members attached to left and right sides of the lower member, and a sloping front member. Each side member includes a horizontal slot that forms a track for a sliding arm support that is housed within the apparatus. The sliding arm support has a flat rectangular shape and includes tabs on both sides to extend and retract the sliding arm support. The apparatus further includes a cushion comprising a pad attached to the front and side members that extends to the rear of the apparatus. A cover material covers the external surfaces of the front and side members. The apparatus also includes an attachment system comprising a screw clamp attached to the lower surface of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Inventor: Ruben Lopez-Apodaca
  • Patent number: 6942407
    Abstract: A wrist rest capable of vertically storing up keyboard includes a wrist rest, at least a movable piece and at least one wall plate. The movable piece is kept in the interior of the wrist rest body in way of being able to slide out of the wrist rest body and is pivotally connected to the wrist rest body. The wall plate is pivotally connected to the movable piece and is able to rotate a preset angle and held in position. The keyboard can rest against the wall plate after the wall plate has been rotated to the preset angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Behavior Tech Computer Corporation
    Inventor: Kuan-Nan Chou
  • Patent number: 6938862
    Abstract: A portable elbow support having a hanger portion, a horizontal stabilizing portion, a vertical stabilizing portion, a support platform, and an elbow receiving portion that is coupled to the support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Solomon J. Orona
  • Patent number: 6936022
    Abstract: A system and method support the forearms, wrists and hands of a user performing repetitive tasks. A support pad has a low-friction upper surface. A cradle is attached to each of the user's wrists. A first portion of a cradle supports the lower portion of the forearm, including the wrist, when the first portion rests upon the upper surface of the support pad. A second portion of each cradle supports the hand of the user. A retaining device attaches the cradle to the lower forearm. The low-friction upper surface advantageously comprises neoprene material (e.g., wetsuit material). The system and method reduce strains on the arms and shoulders of the user by supporting the user's arms and hands while the user performs the repetitive tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Warren N. Root
  • Patent number: 6929615
    Abstract: An ergonomic wrist wrap defined by a flexible elongated material having a first terminal portion, a middle portion, and an opposite terminal portion. Each portion has an external surface and an internal surface. The first terminal portion having a substantially rectangular shape with a first lateral edge and the opposite terminal portion having a substantially rectangular shape with a opposite lateral edge. The middle portion has a substantially square with dimensions to support the heel of a hand. The middle portion have a second lateral edge integrated with the first lateral edge the first terminal portion and a second opposite lateral edge integrated with the second opposite lateral edge of the opposite terminal portion. The present invention further includes a fastener means for holding the wrist wrap in place around the wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventor: Terrance Lee Derr
  • Patent number: 6921054
    Abstract: A computer mouse having a separately movable hand rest. The mouse comprises a housing having a conically shaped depression within a top wall of the housing tapering to an aperture through the top wall. A connecting pin extends through the aperture with an interior end secured within the mouse housing. A hand rest providing support to the heel and palm of the hand is orbitally connected to the connecting pin by an aperture through the hand rest located within a concave portion sized to fit within the depression of the mouse housing. The hand rest has an arcuate shaped bottom portion and a base end moving about the mouse housing during use to maintain alignment of the hand rest with the hand. The housing moves free of interference from the hand rest adjacent the arcuate shaped bottom portion. A tensioning means tensions movement of the hand rest about the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Inventor: Jimmy-Quang V. Doan
  • Patent number: 6892880
    Abstract: A PDA holding unit and holding case therefor, for securing and holding in place a personal digital assistant (PDA) device. The PDA holding unit includes a base member having an upper surface for receiving and holding a PDA device and a lower surface. The upper surface having a plurality of gripping elements thereon for frictionally engaging the PDA device. The PDA holding unit also includes a first gripping arm movably attached to a first side of the base member for engaging and holding the PDA device in place on the base member; and a second gripping arm attached to a second side of the base member for engaging and holding the PDA device in place on the base member. The PDA holding unit further includes third and fourth gripping arms attached to one end of the base member for engaging and holding the PDA device in place on the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Motion Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Julian Nieves
  • Patent number: 6877707
    Abstract: An integrated keyboard platform and document support includes a base and a keyboard support member having an upper surface. The keyboard support member is movably mounted to the base to provide adjustment through a plurality of positions of the keyboard support member. An integral document holder includes a groove having a curved shape in plan view and located in the upper surface of the keyboard support member. The groove defines an engagement surface engagable with a bottom edge of the document and defining a plane of engagement. The plane of engagement is disposed at a non-zero angle relative to the support surface, and is inclined substantially level or rearwardly downward throughout the plurality of positions whereby a document may be held substantially vertical or inclined rearwardly in the curved groove throughout the plurality of positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: David K. Jones, Joseph D. Ruedinger
  • Patent number: 6874736
    Abstract: A keyboard support platform including a keyboard support member adapted to support a keyboard and having a front edge adapted to be positioned adjacent a user. The keyboard support member includes first and second opposite side edges defining a width therebetween. A first mouse support surface is movably mounted to the keyboard member and movably positioned adjacent the first side edge to provide adjustment of the first mouse support surface. A second mouse support surface is movably mounted to the keyboard support member and movably positioned adjacent the second side edge of the keyboard support member to provide adjustment of the second mouse support surface. A palm rest is adjustably mounted to the keyboard support member adjacent the front edge and repositionable between a first position wherein at least a portion of the palm rest extends in front of the first mouse support surface, and a second position wherein at least a portion of the palm rest extends in front of the second mouse support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: David K. Jones, Joseph D. Ruedinger, Jason E. Begin
  • Patent number: 6840581
    Abstract: A height adjustment arrangement for a headrest or the like includes a spring in a rear recess of a backrest. A T-shaped trigger member is received in the recess for biasing against the spring. A plate is secured onto the recess, with the plate having a slit. A finger tab of the trigger member projects from the horizontal slit. Two upright tubes are formed either on sides of a J-bar or on a backside of the backrest. An, inverted U-shaped rod has a top attached to the headrest or the like and two groups of notches opposite the backrest. The trigger member is locked in two notches. In operation, the finger tab is pushed to compress the spring for disengaging the trigger member from the notches. The rod can be raised or lowered relative to the trigger member until a desired height is reached. Finally, the finger tab can be released to lock the trigger member in the other notches again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Chun Chen
  • Patent number: 6829856
    Abstract: A portable arm support (10) for attaching to a user to support or steady firearms, cameras, binoculars, or the like. The portable arm support (10) includes a saddle (12) having fastening straps (20) which secure the saddle (12) to the forearm of the user, and a belt pocket (42) which is mounted to the belt of a user. A support tube (14) is pivotally secured to the saddle (12) and is telescopically extensible for adjusting an overall length of the support tube (14) to extend from the saddle (12) and into the belt pocket (42). The support tube (14) is telescopically adjustable to extend and then latch in an extended position with the lower end of the support tube (14) disposed within the cavity (60) of the belt pocket (42) to support the saddle (14) in fixed relation to the belt pocket (42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Charles W. Moorman
  • Publication number: 20040238699
    Abstract: A kneeler including a base plate having a lower surface with upwardly sloping side and rear edges permitting the kneeler to be rocked on a work surface to free such if stuck. A nose plate is joined at a shallow angle to, and extends upwardly from, the base plate remote from the side and rear edges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Richard A. Harp
  • Patent number: 6822854
    Abstract: A keyboard comprising a left and a right keyboard portion which are intended to be operated on a respective operation side by a left hand and right hand, respectively, wherein the operation side (7, 8) of each keyboard portion (5, 6) includes an angle in the range of about 60-150 degrees with a horizontal plane, the keyboard (1) being provided with left and right supporting means (13, 14; 15) for supporting the left and right hand, respectively, during operation of the respective keyboard portion (5, 6), the supporting means (13, 14; 15) being arranged to permit during use a substantially horizontal displacement of the hands supported thereon relative to the respective keyboard portion (5, 6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventors: Johannes Wilhelmus Paulus Te Maarssen, Vineet Shankar
  • Patent number: 6808328
    Abstract: A shiftable keyboard tray comprising a base, a carriage for support of a keyboard movable on the base, and a palm rest movable on the base offset from the carriage and operably connected to the carriage through a coupler configured to enable movement of the carriage in a second direction when the palm rest is moved in an opposite first direction. The coupler comprises a motor mounted in engaging relationship between the carriage and the base and at least one actuation switch coupled to the palm rest and operably connected to the motor. A positioning device is mounted in engaging relationship between the carriage and the base and operably connected to the motor so as to provide data to the motor regarding the position of the carriage. In an alternative embodiment, the positioning device itself serves as the coupler operably connecting the palm rest to the carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Gully
  • Publication number: 20040206858
    Abstract: An armrest mounted to a base and a method of inhibiting the movement of an armrest is disclosed. The armrest comprises an armrest support member adapted to be coupled to the base, the armrest support member being movable in a linear direction between a first position and a second position. The armrest also includes a release mechanism configured to selectively engage the armrest support member to retain the armrest support member between the first position and the second position. The method comprises operating the user interface to reduce friction between the cam and the rail sufficient to permit movement of the armrest support member, moving the armrest support member between the forward position and the rearward position, and releasing the user interface whereby the cam applies sufficient friction to inhibit movement of the armrest support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: Brent D Rockafellow, Jason M Hipshier, Kenneth D Sherburn, Sheldon Watjer
  • Publication number: 20040206874
    Abstract: A computer mouse pad comprises a rigid base and a plurality of fanfolded paper sheets arranged in a stack and detachably fixed to the base. Each of the stacked sheet is detachably fixed to a sheet immediately below it in the stack through microperfs. A subtle opening and closing of two levels of paper at the fold where two perfs occur, induced by mouse pressure, endows the working ply surface with a flexibility of vertical movement, creating a subtle mouse buoyancy. The sheets are provided with printed messages on upper surfaces thereof. A coating is applied to the upper surfaces of the sheets. The coated upper surfaces are resistant to being written upon, thereby preventing accumulation of carbon, graphite and ink markings, which tend to contaminate the roller ball, prevent proper mouse tracking and adversely affect curser control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventor: Leonard B. Pearson
  • Publication number: 20040178304
    Abstract: An ergonomic apparatus for supporting a computer mouse comprises a base member having a first predetermined shape and a support tray. Such support tray having a second predetermined shape. There is a mousing surface disposed on an upper surface of the support tray and a means engageable with an upper surface of the base member and a bottom surface of the support tray for permitting the support tray to rotate to various positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventor: Paul F. Lando
  • Publication number: 20040155158
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting the head of user while the user is lying in a face-down position, a face-up position or a side position. The apparatus includes a head cradle with ventilation and a pair of elongated dependent arms that can be manipulated to serve as a chest support, or a neck support or a head support depending on how the user is lying.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Robert B Cuddy
  • Patent number: 6772980
    Abstract: The inventive apparatus is a convenient, unobtrusive appliance for providing support in the prevention of injury due to personal computer keyboard use. In particular, the inventive apparatus supports the entire arm and further assists the keyboard user in that it allows the shoulder muscles to remain relaxed, and the knuckles, wrists, and forearms to maintain the same plane during keyboard usage. Further, the inventive apparatus is designed to support and maintain good posture at the keyboard. The inventive apparatus is worn by a user on the user's upper body and it receives it support from the wearer's waist and upper back, while avoiding contact at the wearer's shoulder and neck. It supports both arms and the upper body without encumbering the wearer of the apparatus. The inventive apparatus supports the wearer's upper body movements by acting as a suspension system in that it absorbs the damaging energy that so often is the initial cause of repetitive stress injury to keyboard users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: John M. O'Neill
  • Patent number: 6773072
    Abstract: A vertically and horizontally adjustable chair armrest is disclosed. The armrest includes an outer shroud, an upstanding support with a central opening and an armrest base. Within the central opening is a guide tube that moves vertically and has oppositely disposed slots. Within the guide tube, but mounted to rotate only, is a rod. At the lower end of the rod is a locking element that extends through the slots in the guide tube. The rod is rotated by a user pivoted lever bearing down on a spring biased activator nut. The nut is keyed to move only in a linear direction but is threaded to engage a mating thread on the rod, thereby causing the rod to rotate. When the locking element is rotated out of engagement with notches in the support opening, the armrest may be adjusted in a vertical direction. Releasing the lever allows the spring to bias the locking element into engagement with the notches to lock the armrest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: HON Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew J. Phillips, Jay R. Machael, Brian R. Trego
  • Publication number: 20040144900
    Abstract: A keyboard wrist support including a platform adapted for being in a first, deployed position adjacent to the keyboard or a second, storage position in a plane below the keyboard. The wrist support further includes a pair of elongated support brackets, each having a first portion coupled to the platform and a second portion movably attached to a base. The wrist support provides the additional benefits of counterbalancing the weight of the computer display when the wrist support is used with a portable computer and providing leverage to the user for stabilization. The platform is pivotable with respect to the support brackets in order to permit the platform to be angled relative to the keyboard for optimum comfort and the base is slidable with respect to the support brackets in order to reduce the footprint of the support when the keyboard is not in use. Also described are embodiments in which the platform is slidable with respect to the keyboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: Robert J. Sheppard
  • Patent number: 6761338
    Abstract: A chuck structure joins a headrest to a wheelchair. A chuck includes a joining hole at an upper end serving to install a supporting arm at two sides of the headrest. The lower end of the chuck includes two sidewalls, on the sidewalls being through holes, with the two sidewall forming a recessed space. Inside the recessed space is an arched end face. The recessed space of the chuck is aligned with and fixed to a bend of the armrest of the wheelchair. A positioning member between the through holes on the sidewalls presses against the bottom of the armrest bend. Two ends of the arched end face press against the upper end of the armrest bend, forming firm positioning effect by three points. The headrest installed on the chuck can be assembled or disassembled by tightening or loosening the positioning member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Ryuji Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 6758447
    Abstract: An epidural stabilization device for restraining a sitting patient against movement during an epidural procedure. The device includes an adjustable face cradle, an adjustable chest support, and an arm support. The face cradle, chest support and arm support are attached to a support post. A support leg extends downwardly from the support post. The support leg is preferably adapted to be received and held by a conventional IV clamp attached to an operating or examination table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Ronald E. Tinsley
  • Patent number: 6749158
    Abstract: A keyboard and mouse support includes a keyboard support body and a mouse support. The keyboard support body includes a throughpassage that passes through the support body and opens on opposite sides of the support body. The keyboard support body also defines a support surface configured to accommodate a keyboard. A back side of the keyboard support includes a back wall defining an arcuate slotted document holder and a pair of passageways for receiving a keyboard cord. A moveable mouse support fits within a portion of the throughpassage of the support and extends outwardly from the support to define left and right hand mouse support surfaces. The mouse support includes an upwardly protruding elongated bead spaced inwardly from a rearward edge of the mouse support. The bead prevents a mouse placed on either of the two mouse support surfaces from sliding off the back edge of the mouse support if the mouse support is inclined at a negative angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Work-Rite Ergonomic Accessories, Inc.
    Inventor: Derek Timm
  • Patent number: 6749159
    Abstract: A stackable wrist and arm support pad assembly is for use while operating a computer. The support pad assembly is adjustable in height by utilizing a series of nesting pads that allow for adjustment to provide the correct ergonomic posture. The base pad is solid in design with a raised padded section. The pads on top of the base pad have a hollow bottom that fits upon the pad of the pad below. In this manner, up to three, four or possibly more pads can be added to provide the correct posture to help avoid stress on the wrist, elbow and shoulder of the user. The pads may include a removable and washable cover. Additionally, the pads are available in different sizes and shapes to fit all types of keyboards and mouse pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Terry Wayne Hess
  • Patent number: 6736357
    Abstract: A wrist support comprises a bracket to be secured to a gear shift lever; a mounting rod secured to the bracket; a swivel secured to a free end of the rod; and a rest secured to the swivel. The rod is vertically and horizontally selectively adjustable with respect to the bracket. The bracket is angularly selectively adjustable with respect to the gear shift lever. The rest is rotatably movable and tiltable with respect to the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventors: Frederick W. Venn, Walter Smart
  • Publication number: 20040084576
    Abstract: A wrist supporter device which comprises four components; an elongated, shaped metal piece; a flexible material for covering said shaped metal piece; a mounting device and a L-shaped bracket, one leg of the L-shaped bracket being secured to the metal piece. The mounting device has a first knob for securing the device to a supporting member of varying thicknesses. In a first embodiment, a second knob is provided to adjust the device so that it can be secured to supporting members of various thicknesses. In a second embodiment, a second knob allows the metal piece to swivel to a predetermined position and then secure the metal piece to that position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Rehan Khan
  • Publication number: 20040075030
    Abstract: The invention relates to a chuck structure for joining a headrest to a wheelchair. The chuck comprises a joining hole at an upper end of the chuck, serving to install a supporting arm at two sides of the headrest, at a lower end of the chuck being two sidewalls, on the sidewalls being through holes, the two sidewalls forming a recessed space, inside the space being an arched end face; thereby, the recessed space of the chuck is aligned with and fixed to a bend of the armrest of the wheelchair, with the positioning member between the through holes on the sidewalls pressing against the bottom of the armrest bend, and two ends of the arched end face pressing against the upper end of the armrest bend, forming firm positioning effect by three points, and the headrest installed on the chuck can be assembled or disassembled by tightening or loosening the positioning member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Ryuji Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 6719344
    Abstract: A center console of a vehicle installed on its floor as if extending along a longitudinal direction of the vehicle has a bottle holder for holding drinking vessels, an accessory storage for holding small articles, a first lid for covering and uncovering the top of the bottle holder, and a second lid for covering and uncovering the top of the accessory storage. The first lid can be slid from a position where the top of the bottle holder is covered by the first lid to a position where the top of the bottle holder is uncovered and, with the first and second lids joined into a single structure, the first and second lids can be swung up together about fixed parts of hinges from a position where the top of the accessory storage is covered to a position where the top of the accessory storage is uncovered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignees: Mazda Motor Corporation, Nishikawa Kasei Co., Ltd., Nifco Inc.
    Inventors: Masayoshi Ono, Hiroshi Ohno, Junji Takahara, Nobuhisa Fujii, Takehiko Nemoto
  • Patent number: 6708935
    Abstract: The device is used for supporting an upper extremity limb of a patient located in either a bed or a chair. The device preferably includes bracket, a pole, a knee joint, a cradle, and an extremity support. Preferably, the knee joint provides movement in three radial directions to allow for optimal placement of the extremity support for a particular patient. The bracket preferably provides the flexibility to attach to a wide variety of furniture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Eric M. Smeed
  • Publication number: 20040046090
    Abstract: A method of manufacture a wrist pad, comprising the step of: a. Knead and stir a mixture having natural rubber and foaming agent repeatedly to make it well mix. b. Press the well mixed mixture into a plank element. c. Form an arched portion on the plank element. d. Foam the plank element with the arched portion so that chemical reaction will occur between the natural rubber and the foaming agent to produce an air pressure for forming the plank element to a wrist pad, and c. Cool the foamed wrist pad and cut the wrist pad into a predetermined shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Semi Kao
  • Patent number: 6699190
    Abstract: A control panel for a diagnostic ultrasound system includes a keyboard with a wrist pad that stows beneath the control panel, and extends from the control panel when needed. The keyboard wrist pad integrates smoothly into the front of the control panel when the keyboard is in the stowed position. The keyboard wrist pad can also be integrated into the top surface of the edge of the control panel and can serve as a wrist pad for either the control panel or the keyboard when the keyboard is extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Robert Mesaros, Yas Matsui
  • Patent number: 6688563
    Abstract: A support is provided for mounting a mouse surface on a keyboard supporting tray for movement about a first vertical axis for moving the mouse surface between right and left hand use positions disposed adjacent right and left hand ends of a keyboard supported by the tray; for movement about a second axis disposed within a plane arranged parallel to said first axis; and for movement about a horizontal axis for forwardly and rearwardly tilting the mouse surface relative to the ends of the keyboard and selectively positioning upper and lower surfaces of the mouse surface vertically above and below the keyboard. The support is cantilever supported on the tray by a pivot connection for defining the first axis and includes a bearing surface selectively engageable with an upwardly facing, arculate surface portions of the tray for providing vertical support for the mouse surface remotely of the first axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Weber Knapp Company
    Inventors: Warren A. Waxham, Michael G. Wisniewski
  • Patent number: 6684431
    Abstract: An angle-adjustable tabletop personal support apparatus includes a positioning base for positioning on the top of a table, a supporting mattress unit pivoted to the positioning base and adapted to support the user's head and chest, and an angle adjustment unit provided between the positioning base and the supporting mattress unit and adapted to support the supporting mattress unit on the positioning base in a tilted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: LifeGear, Inc..
    Inventor: Robson L. Splane, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040017094
    Abstract: An arm support for a vehicle door is an elongated, stiff platform with a lip on one long edge and a support panel on the opposite long edge. The arm support is attached to the vehicle by inserting the lip between the window and the inside edge of the window channel. The platform spans the inner portion of the door. The support panel extends vertically downward from the platform and rests against the door interior. The upper surfaces of the arm support are cushioned. An adjustable stand-off block may be attached to the lower edge of the support panel between the support panel and the vehicle door to adjust the angle of the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Dalton H. Bruton
  • Patent number: 6682038
    Abstract: A keyboard support includes one or more retractable auxiliary support platforms. The keyboard support is constructed of a keyboard platform and a bottom plate which include complementary interior surfaces which form one or more pockets therebetween into which the auxiliary support platforms are slidably retracted. Each auxiliary support platform further includes a top plate and a slider plate. The top plate has a top surface which matches that of the keyboard platform to provide a uniform appearance. The profile of the auxiliary support platforms generally matches that of the pockets so as to be substantially hidden when in the fully retracted position. The top plate is rotatable with respect to the slider plate, and also the keyboard support, so as to enlarge the useable work surface of the auxiliary support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventor: Arkady Golynsky
  • Patent number: 6672548
    Abstract: A cushion includes a formed or stretchable sheet, or cover, and a core. The core includes individual and separate particulates and an oil for enabling lubricated movement of the particulates within the core in response to an outside force applied to the sheet. Particulates may include a combination of polymers and foam materials particularly open celled foam materials that may be partially filled with the oil upon forming of the cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Paul M. Yates
  • Patent number: 6663056
    Abstract: A wrist cushion includes a pad portion, a transparent shell portion bonded to an upper side of the pad portion, and a transparent top portion bonded to and covering a whole upper surface of the pad and the shell portions. The shell portion has mono or dual liquids and ornamental floating articles contained therein. The top portion has predetermined softness, elasticity, and thickness to protect the shell portion against undesired piercing by pointed things and leakage of the mono or dual liquids while enables movements of the liquids and the floating articles to be seen from outside of the wrist cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Vincent K. Lee
  • Patent number: 6663055
    Abstract: The illustrative armboard assembly includes a lockable first joint coupling an armboard to a support arm, a lockable second joint coupling the support arm to a mounting post and a lockable third joint coupling the mounting post to a mounting rail. The first joint is configured to permit movement of the armboard along the support arm and configured to permit movement of the armboard relative to the support arm about a first plurality of axes. The second joint is configured to permit movement of the support arm relative to the mounting post about a second plurality of axes. The third joint is configured to position the mounting post in a selected vertical position relative to the mounting rail and in a selected longitudinal position along the mounting rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: The OR Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Boucher, Matthew Cavanaugh, Kip P. VanSteenburg, George T. Wong
  • Publication number: 20030226947
    Abstract: A keyboard support includes one or more retractable auxiliary support platforms. The keyboard support is constructed of a keyboard platform and a bottom plate which include complementary interior surfaces which form one or more pockets therebetween into which the auxiliary support platforms are slidably retracted. Each auxiliary support platform further includes a top plate and a slider plate. The top plate has a top surface which matches that of the keyboard platform to provide a uniform appearance. The profile of the auxiliary support platforms generally matches that of the pockets so as to be substantially hidden when in the fully retracted position. The top plate is rotatable with respect to the slider plate, and also the keyboard support, so as to enlarge the useable work surface of the auxiliary support platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventor: Arkady Golynsky