U.S. patent application number 11/418396 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-21 for equipment security apparatus.
Invention is credited to John R. Umberg.
Application Number | 20060284046 11/418396 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29740857 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060284046 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Umberg; John R. |
December 21, 2006 |
Equipment security apparatus
Abstract
A security apparatus connects an electronic device to a
structure. The security apparatus includes a structural mount, a
security enclosure, and a swivel mechanism. The structural mount
extends from the structure. The security enclosure has a tray that
can mount a variety of electronic devices externally to the
security enclosure. The security enclosure also has a security
housing that slidably receives the tray. The tray and the security
housing define a substantially secure fastening volume wherein at
least one electronic device fastener is located. The swivel
mechanism, which is at least partially located within the fastening
volume, engages the security housing and orients the security
enclosure and the electronic device attached thereto with respect
to the structure.
Inventors: |
Umberg; John R.; (Diamond
Bar, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KNOBBE MARTENS OLSON & BEAR LLP
2040 MAIN STREET
FOURTEENTH FLOOR
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Family ID: |
29740857 |
Appl. No.: |
11/418396 |
Filed: |
May 3, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10465382 |
Jun 19, 2003 |
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11418396 |
May 3, 2006 |
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60391396 |
Jun 24, 2002 |
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60415695 |
Oct 2, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
248/551 ;
248/317 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16M 13/027 20130101;
F16M 11/14 20130101; Y10T 70/5027 20150401; F16M 2200/022 20130101;
E05B 73/0082 20130101; Y10T 70/5009 20150401 |
Class at
Publication: |
248/551 ;
248/317 |
International
Class: |
F16M 13/00 20060101
F16M013/00 |
Claims
1. A security apparatus that connects an electronic device to a
structure, the security apparatus comprising: a structural mount
configured to extend from the structure; a security enclosure
having a tray that is configured to engage a variety of electronic
devices externally to the security enclosure and a security housing
that slidably receives the tray, the tray and the security housing
defining a substantially secure fastening volume wherein at least
one fastener for attaching the electronic device to the security
enclosure is located; and a swivel mechanism at least partially
located within the fastening volume, the swivel mechanism
configured to engage the security housing and to adjust the
orientation of the security enclosure and the electronic device
attached thereto with respect to the structure.
2. The security apparatus of claim 1, wherein the security
enclosure further comprises a lock that selectively locks the tray
to the security housing.
3. The security apparatus of claim 1, wherein the swivel mechanism
further comprises a substantially hemispherical surface, a pitch
and roll member located external to the fastening volume, and a
plurality of adjustment members extending through the pitch and
roll member to contact the security enclosure.
4. The security apparatus of claim 3, wherein the pitch and roll
member is a pitch and roll plate.
5. The security apparatus of claim 3, wherein the swivel mechanism
is configured to orient the security enclosure and the electronic
device attached thereto through a swivel range about a swivel axis,
through a pitch range about a pitch axis, and through a roll range
about a roll axis.
6. The security apparatus of claim 5, wherein the swivel range is
about 360 degrees, the pitch range is about 30 degrees, and the
roll range is about 30 degrees.
7. The security apparatus of claim 3, wherein the swivel mechanism
comprises three adjustment members.
8. The security apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tray of the
security enclosure further comprises a plurality of mounting holes
adapted to receive one or more fasteners for connecting the
electronic device to the security enclosure.
9. The security apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a first
security bar configured to at least partially surround a portion of
the electronic device.
10. The security apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a second
security bar configured to at least partially surround a portion of
the electronic device.
11. The security apparatus of claim 10, wherein the first security
bar is mounted on the security enclosure at about a ninety degree
angle to the second security bar.
12. The security apparatus of claim 10, wherein the first security
bar is mounted on the security enclosure parallel to the second
security bar.
13. The security apparatus of claim 1, wherein the structural mount
comprises a column and a plate, the plate mountable onto the
structure.
14. The security apparatus of claim 12, wherein the column is an
adjustable length column.
15. The security apparatus of claim 12, further comprising a shroud
and a lock, the shroud and lock configured limit access to the
column adjustment.
16. The security apparatus of claim 1, wherein the swivel mechanism
further comprises a ball joint.
17. A security enclosure capable of attachment to a structure, the
security enclosure configured to protect a device from theft, the
security enclosure comprising: a tray having an equipment mounting
surface, a fastening volume surface, and a plurality of attachment
holes extending from the equipment mounting surface to the
fastening volume surface, the attachment holes configured to
receive fasteners sized to connect the device to the tray; a
security housing having a hole configured to receive a swivel
mechanism that orients the security housing with respect to the
structure, the security housing configured to slidably receive the
tray; a substantially secure fastening volume at least partially
defined by the security housing and the fastening volume surface of
the tray; and a lock that selectively locks the tray to the
security housing.
18. The security enclosure of claim 17, further comprising a
flexible element attachable to an external surface of the device,
the flexible element providing for attachment of the device to the
tray.
19. The security enclosure of claim 17, further comprising a first
security bar configured to be adjustable to the size of the device
and to at least partially surround a portion of the device.
20. The security enclosure of claim 19, further comprising a second
security bar configured to be adjustable to the size of the device
and to at least partially surround a portion of the device.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 10/465,382, filed Jun. 19, 2003, which claims the benefit of
U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/391,396, filed Jun. 24, 2002
and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/415,695, filed Oct. 2,
2002, the contents of all of which are hereby expressly
incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for
mounting equipment in a public building or the like, and, more
particularly, to an equipment security apparatus for securing
equipment from theft.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Electronic devices, such as projectors, are often used in
public buildings for communicating information to the building's
users. Such electronic devices typically include a power cord,
control buttons and signal input/output connections, which are
usually located around the outside surface of the devices. The
control buttons control the performance and other aspects of the
devices, while the power cord and signal input/output connections
provide for interconnection of the devices with a source of power,
a signal source, and with other electronic devices. Being valuable
and relatively portable, such devices are often a target for theft.
Accordingly, equipment owners wish to secure these electronic
devices from theft.
[0006] Over the years, a variety of mounting devices have been
developed to mount and secure electronic devices. One commercially
available mounting device provides a cage into which a projector
can be placed. The cage has a small opening on one side through
which the images from the projector are projected. The cage,
however, tends to unduly limit access to the various control
buttons and signal input/output connections located on the
projector's outside surface. In addition, the cage tends to reduce
the ability of the projector to eliminate the heat generated during
operation of the projector. The size of the cage also limits the
size of the projector that can be secured.
[0007] Another commercially available mounting device includes a
base unit that connects the projector to a ceiling or other
surface. The base unit employs a mounting adapter secured by screws
to the various internally threaded mounting holes on the projector.
The base unit is also capable of independent pitch, roll, and yaw
adjustments. These adjustments are made by loosening several
mechanical fasteners, repositioning the base unit, and then
tightening the fasteners. This base unit style mounting device is
not convenient for several reasons. For example, due to the wide
variety of electronic devices used and the numerous manufacturers
thereof, the location of the mounting holes of each projector is
different from one projector to the next. This requires the
production of a multitude of different mounting adapters to fit the
hole pattern of each different projector. In addition, the separate
adjustment of pitch, roll, and yaw is tedious and difficult because
the projector must be held in place while many fasteners are
tightened. As a result, the pitch, roll, and yaw adjustment of the
projector usually requires two people.
[0008] Other mounting devices that are commercially available
employ simple mechanical fasteners that connect the electronic
device to the mounting apparatus. These fasteners deter theft to
some degree because they are designed to be removed only by special
tools. However, because these fasteners are accessible to a
would-be thief, they still can be removed relatively easily by an
experienced thief.
[0009] Accordingly, there is a need for an equipment security
apparatus that provides greater security for equipment, such as an
electronic device, without severely limiting access thereto, and
which allows the user to easily orient the equipment. In addition,
there is a need for an equipment security apparatus that is
versatile in that it can be used with many different types of
equipment and different electronic devices without requiring
different mounting adapters. The present invention satisfies these
and other needs and provides further related advantages.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention is embodied in a security apparatus
that connects an electronic device to a structure. In one
embodiment, the security apparatus comprises a structural mount, a
security enclosure, and a swivel mechanism. The structural mount is
configured to extend from the structure. The security enclosure has
a tray that is configured to engage a variety of electronic devices
externally to the security enclosure. The security enclosure also
has a security housing that slidably receives the tray. The tray
and the security housing together define a fastening volume wherein
at least one electronic device fastener is located for securing the
electronic device to the tray. The swivel mechanism is at least
partially located within the fastening volume. The swivel mechanism
is configured to engage the security housing and to orient the
security enclosure and the electronic device attached thereto with
respect to the structure.
[0011] In another embodiment, the security apparatus comprises a
tray, a security housing, a fastening volume, and a lock. The tray
has an equipment mounting surface, a fastening volume surface, and
a plurality of attachment holes that extend from the equipment
mounting surface to the fastening volume surface. The attachment
holes receive fasteners sized to engage the device. The security
housing has a hole that receives a swivel mechanism that orients
the security housing with respect to the structure. The security
housing slidably receives the tray. The fastening volume is at
least partially defined by the security housing and the fastening
volume surface of the tray. The lock selectively connects the tray
to the security housing.
[0012] In another embodiment, the security apparatus comprises a
column, a security enclosure, a swivel mechanism, and at least one
security bar. The column extends from a structure. The security
enclosure defines a fastening volume wherein an electronic device
can be fastened externally to the security enclosure. The security
enclosure has a security housing, a tray, and a lock. The security
housing has an opening. The tray, which is slidably received by the
security housing, has a hole pattern grid. The lock selectively
connects the tray to the security housing. The swivel mechanism is
connected to the column and is at least partially located within
the fastening volume. The swivel mechanism orients the security
enclosure and the device attached thereto. The security bar at
least partially surrounds the device, extends through the hole
pattern grid, and is connected to the security enclosure in the
fastening volume.
[0013] In another embodiment, the security apparatus comprises a
structural mount configured to extend from a structure, a security
enclosure, and a ball joint. The security enclosure includes a tray
that is configured to engage an electronic device externally to the
security enclosure and a security housing. The security housing is
coupled with the tray. The tray and the security housing define a
substantially secure fastening volume wherein at least one fastener
for attaching an electronic device to the security enclosure is
located. The ball joint is also at least partially located within
the fastening volume.
[0014] As summarized above, and as discussed more fully below, the
present invention provides several advantages. For example, the
fastening volume, in which the fasteners that connect the
electronic device to the tray and the fasteners that connect the
swivel mechanism to the column, is not accessible. This greatly
enhances the security of the apparatus because a thief is unable to
tamper with the fasteners without first defeating the lock. Another
advantage of the present invention is that, while the fasteners are
inaccessible to a thief, the electronic device is substantially
accessible to the user. This accessibility makes the electronic
device easier to operate compared to other systems that mostly or
completely enclose the electronic device. Another advantage of the
present invention is that a wide variety of electronic devices,
e.g., devices of differing sizes, devices having different mounting
hardware placement, etc., can be used without requiring a wide
range of adapter configurations. Another advantage is provided by
the swivel mechanism which allows orientation of the electronic
device, while having a relatively simple design. This simple swivel
mechanism design is easily adjusted and thus the electronic device
can be oriented by a one person.
[0015] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent from the following detailed description of the
preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of
the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further
understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate
embodiments of the present invention and together with the
description serve to explain the principles of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of one embodiment of a
security apparatus that securely connects a projector to a
structure.
[0018] FIG. 1A is a front elevation view, partially in
cross-section, of one variation of the security apparatus of FIG.
1.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the security apparatus of
FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of another variation of the
security apparatus of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the security apparatus of
FIG. 2, showing a portion of a security enclosure removed
therefrom.
[0022] FIG. 4 is a cross-section elevation view of the security
apparatus of FIG. 2, taken substantially along section plane 4-4,
showing one embodiment of a swivel mechanism that interconnects the
security enclosure and a structural mount of the security
apparatus.
[0023] FIG. 4A is a cross-section elevation view of the security
apparatus of FIG. 2A, taken substantially along section plane
4A-4A.
[0024] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional elevation view, similar to FIG.
4, showing the projector mounted on the security enclosure with one
embodiment of flexible footings.
[0025] FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of the security enclosure
that shows a roll adjustment of the security apparatus.
[0026] FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the security enclosure
that shows a pitch adjustment of the security apparatus.
[0027] FIG. 8 is a is a cross-section elevation view similar to
that of FIG. 4, showing one embodiment of a ball joint positioned
between the security enclosure and a structural mount of the
security apparatus.
[0028] FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of the security apparatus
of FIG. 8 that shows a roll adjustment of the security apparatus of
FIG. 8.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0029] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a security apparatus 10
for securing a liquid crystal display (LCD) projector 14 against
theft. The security apparatus 10 includes a structural mount 18, a
security enclosure 22, and a swivel mechanism 26. The security
enclosure 22 engages the projector 14 in a manner that protects the
projector 14 from theft, as discussed more fully below. The
security enclosure 22 also engages the swivel mechanism 26, which
adjusts the orientation of the projector 14 with respect to a
structure 30 or to a projection surface, such as a projection
screen. The configuration and operation of the swivel mechanism 26
is discussed in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 4-7. The
structural mount 18 is connected to the swivel mechanism 26 and is
also connected to the structure 30. The structure 30 may broadly be
any structure that is substantially larger than the projector 14.
For example, as discussed in more detail below, the structure may
be, without limitation, a structure found in a building, such as a
ceiling, an inside wall, an outside wall, a floor, or a roof of a
building, a heavy piece of furniture, e.g., a desk, a stand, a
cart, a shelf or other similar structure. The structure 30 may also
include a structure found in a vehicle, such as a wall or ceiling
of a vehicle.
[0030] In one application, the security apparatus 10 is mountable
to a ceiling that partially defines an inside room of a building.
The security apparatus 10 could also be mounted on an inside wall,
an outside wall, a floor, or a roof of a building (e.g., the
security apparatus 10 could secure an outdoor projection system,
one or more components of an outdoor sound system, or any other
relatively valuable and relatively portable device to a building
roof). In another embodiment, the security apparatus 10 could be
mounted on a heavy piece of furniture or to any other structure 30
that is relatively incapable of being stolen.
[0031] Although the figures described herein show an LCD projector,
the security apparatus 10 could be used in connection with other
electronic devices or other types of equipment to be secured
against theft. The device to be secured is mounted generally
externally to the security enclosure 22, and thus the security
apparatus 10 is particularly useful for devices that have controls
located on the outside surface of the device, for devices that
require occasional adjustments, or for devices that must be
connected to other devices via input/output connections located on
the device's outside surface. However, the security enclosure 22
could be used more generally to protect any type of portable
equipment from theft.
[0032] The structural mount 18 preferably includes an elongate
element 32 that has a first end 34 and a second end 38. The first
end 34 is configured to engage the swivel mechanism 26 in a
suitable manner. In one embodiment, the first end 34 has external
threads that engage internal threads located on a component of the
swivel mechanism 26. In another embodiment, the structural mount 18
and the swivel mechanism 26 could be made with a unitary
construction. However, if the structural mount 18 and the swivel
mechanism 26 can be disengaged, as with mating threads, the
security apparatus 10 can be more easily adapted for different
environments. For example, by providing elongate elements 32 of
different lengths, the security apparatus 10 can be used in a wide
variety of environments, e.g., ceilings of different heights or
structures 30 of varying sizes.
[0033] In one embodiment, the elongate element 32 is a column. If
the elongate element 32 is a column, it can be configured as a
hollow tube, a solid rod, or any other shape or configuration
suitable to connect the swivel mechanism 26 to the structure 30.
Preferably, the elongate element 32 is a steel tube that has an
outer diameter of about two inches and a length of about eighteen
inches. With this construction, the elongate element 32 provides a
hidden path for a power cord and other cable connections to the
projector 14.
[0034] The second end 38 of the elongate element 32 is configured
to engage the structure 30. In one embodiment, the second end 38 is
provided with external threads (not shown) that engage internal
threads (not shown) of a flange 42 attached to the structure 30.
The flange 42 can be attached to the structure 30 in any suitable
way. For example, the flange 42 could be attached by a plurality of
lag bolts 44, e.g., by four lag bolts 44, each of the lag bolts 44
having a five-sixteenths inch diameter and a three and one-half
inch length. In another embodiment, the structural mount 18 could
extend from a load bearing component of the structure 30. The
structural mount 18 could also be formed as an integral part of the
structure 30. While the embodiment of the security apparatus 10
shown includes the structural mount 18 and the flange 42, these
elements are not required in all embodiments. Some embodiments also
include a shroud 43 (see FIG. 1A) which can be provided to limit
access to and/or hide some or all of the flange 42 and the elongate
element 32.
[0035] Although it is preferred that the structural mount 18 of the
security apparatus 10 be relatively easily attached to the swivel
mechanism 26 and to the structure 30, it should be assembled such
that it cannot be easily detached therefrom. A preferred approach
to securely attach the security apparatus 10 to the structure 30
involves applying an adhesive to the elongate element 32, to the
flange 42, or to both the elongate element 32 and the flange 42
prior to attaching these two components together. One adhesive that
can be used is commercially available under the name LocTite 271,
and is available from Loc-Tite.RTM., or the adhesive EP-400 which
is available from Rector Seal. One skilled in the art will
appreciate that there are other ways to attach the security
apparatus to the structure 30 securely within the scope of the
subject matter disclosed herein, e.g., welding, gluing, and
clamping.
[0036] The security enclosure 22 preferably has a security tray 46
and a security housing 50 that is coupled with the security tray
46. FIG. 3 shows the tray 46 slidably received by the security
housing 50. In one embodiment, sliding engagement of the security
tray 46 with the security housing 50 is achieved by providing three
underhanging flanges 52 arranged along three contiguous sides of
the bottom of the security housing 50. The fourth side of the
bottom of the security housing 50 that does not have an
underhanging flange 52 is the side into which the tray 46 is
inserted. The underhanging flanges 52 engage and support a portion
of the bottom surface of the security tray 46 and thereby provide
sliding engagement of the security tray 46 relative to the security
housing 50. In another embodiment, the security housing 50 could be
provided with two underhanging flanges 52 on opposite lateral sides
of the security housing 50 or could be provided with a single
underhanging flange 52 that extends from one lateral side of the
security housing 50 to an opposite lateral side thereof.
[0037] As shown in FIG. 4, the security housing 50 preferably has a
hole 53 that is sized to receive a portion of the swivel mechanism
26. Both the security housing 50 and the tray 46 are preferably
made of steel. The external dimensions of one embodiment of the
security housing 50 are 13.5 inches long by 12 inches wide by 1.75
inches tall.
[0038] When connected together, the tray 46 and the security
housing 50 define a fastening volume 54 (see FIG. 4), wherein at
least one fastener 58 for securing the projector 14 is securely
housed and shielded from access by a thief. Because the tray 46 is
slidably received by the security housing 50, the security tray 46
can be easily moved with respect to the security housing 50. When
the tray 46 is disengaged from the security housing 50, the
fasteners 58 are accessible so that the projector 14 can be removed
for service or for replacement. The external dimensions of one
embodiment of the security tray 46 are 13.3 inches long by 11.8
inches wide by 1.55 inches tall.
[0039] FIGS. 1-3, 6, and 9 show that in various embodiments a lock
62 is provided, preferably on the forward facing side of the
security enclosure 22, to lock the tray 46 against movement
relative to the security housing 50. The lock 62 can be any
suitable lock, but is preferably a high-security, pick-resistant
lock. Of course, locks being even more secure can be provided at
additional cost within the scope of the claimed invention. A
cylindrical key lock is a conventional lock that could be used in
connection with the security apparatus 10. While the lock 62 is
shown on the forward facing side of the security enclosure 22, it
could be located in other suitable locations, so long as it
securely connects the security tray 46 to the security housing
50.
[0040] The security tray 46 provides for the secure and versatile
attachment of the projector 14 (or other portable devices or
equipment) to the security enclosure 22. As illustrated best in
FIGS. 3-5, the projector 14 is connected primarily externally to
the security enclosure 22. The tray 46 preferably has an equipment
mounting surface 66, a fastening volume surface 70, and a plurality
of attachment holes 74. Each of the attachment holes 74,
collectively referred to herein as a hole pattern grid, extends
from the equipment mounting surface 66 of the security tray 46 to
the fastening volume surface 70 of the security tray 46. The
attachment holes 74 are configured to receive the fasteners 58 that
are sized to engage the projector 14. By providing the hole pattern
grid, the security enclosure 22 is made compatible with the wide
variety of devices that the user may want to secure to the
structure 30 using the security apparatus 10. Unlike prior designs,
the hole pattern grid of the tray 46 advantageously enables
interconnection of the security apparatus 10 and the projector 14
or device without the need for a wide variety of adapters.
[0041] The projector 14 can be attached to the tray 46 by direct
bolting, by using one or more flexible footings 78, or by any other
suitable method. In the direct bolting method, the projector 14 is
turned upside-down to expose a set of footings provided by the
manufacturer of the projector 14 or other device that are disposed
on the bottom side of the projector 14 or device. The footings of
the projector 14 are either removed or adjusted so that they are
substantially flush with the bottom surface of the projector 14.
Then the security tray 46 is placed on the bottom of the projector
14. The hole pattern grid of the security tray 46 and the projector
14 are lined up so that a plurality of internally threaded mounting
holes or nuts of the projector 14 provided by the projector
manufacturer can be seen through the attachment holes 74 of the
tray 46. For some projectors 14, one or more additional attachment
holes can be formed in the tray 46 as may be necessary to provide
access to one or more of the mounting holes or nuts on the
projector 14 that are otherwise inaccessible via the attachments
holes 74 of the hole pattern grid. An appropriately sized fastener
58, e.g., one that matches the internal threads of the mounting
holes or nuts of the projector 14, is selected.
[0042] A length of plastic tube 77 may be provided to at least
partially surround the fasteners 58 to shield the fasteners 58 in
the small space between the projector 14 and the tray 46, where a
thief could attempt to saw through or otherwise defeat the
fastener. One type of plastic tube 77 that could be employed is
known as split-loom. If a thief were able to insert a saw between
the small space between the projector 14 and the tray 46, the
split-loom further protects the projector 14 from theft by making
it more difficult to saw through the fasteners 58. After the
plastic tube 77 is selected and wrapped around the fastener, the
tray 46 is attached to the projector 14 with the fasteners 58.
[0043] In one embodiment of the direct bolting method, the
fasteners 58 comprise machine screws and washers that interconnect
the projector 14 and the security tray 46. For example, a plurality
of machine screw having about a six millimeter diameter and being
about thirty-five millimeters long could be used. Alternatively, a
plurality of machine screws having about an eight-thirty-seconds
diameter and being about one and one-quarter inches long could be
used. In some embodiments, a washer, such as a one-quarter inch
inner diameter by one and one-quarter inch outer diameter washer,
can be used to more securely retain the head of the machine screw
in the fastening volume 54. As should be recognized, the size and
shape of fasteners can vary widely as the security apparatus 10 is
configured for use with a wide variety of devices that may have
different sizes and that might require fasteners of different sizes
and configurations.
[0044] In another attachment method, at least one flexible footing
78 is provided between the projector 14 and the equipment mounting
surface 66 of the security tray 46. In this method, the projector
14 is turned upside down. Footings on the projector 14 that are
provided by the manufacturer of the projector 14 or device that are
disposed on the bottom surface of the projector 14 or device are
removed or adjusted so as to be substantially flush with the bottom
surface of the projector 14. A plurality of flexible footings 78
are placed proximate one or more edges of the bottom surface of the
projector 14. The flexible footings 78 are trimmed with scissors to
be appropriately sized for the projector 14 being mounted. The tray
46 is placed on the bottom of the projector 14 so that internally
threaded mounting holes of the flexible footing 78 can be seen
through the mounting holes 74 of the tray 46. The position of each
of the flexible footings 78 is marked on the bottom surface of the
projector 14. The area at the bottom surface of the projector 14 is
then prepared.
[0045] For a painted metal projector housing, the bottom surface is
prepared by treating it so as to remove the paint and to expose the
bare metal of the bottom surface of the projector 14. For a
projector 14 having a plastic housing, the bottom surface is
lightly sanded and then cleaned. The flexible footings 78 are also
cleaned. One cleaning method employs alcohol wipes. Any other
suitable cleaning agent can also be used. Both the flexible
footings 78 and the bottom surface of the projector 14 are allowed
to dry. Then, an appropriate amount of cyanoacrylate adhesive is
placed on one of the flexible footings 78. The flexible footings 78
and the bottom surface of the projector 14 are then pressed
together and the cyanoacrylate adhesive allowed to cure. This is
repeated for each flexible footing 78.
[0046] Once the flexible footings 78 have been secured to the
bottom surface of the projector 14, the tray 46 can be placed over
flexible footings 78 once again. Then the tray 46 and the flexible
footings 78 can be interconnected using the fasteners 58. The
flexible footing 78 is described more fully in U.S. Pat. No.
6,193,207, incorporated by reference herein. In general, the
flexible footings provide attachment of the projector 14 or device
to the tray 46 when no mounting holes or nuts on the projector 14
are conveniently located.
[0047] As most clearly shown in FIG. 4, the portion of the
fasteners 58 that is engaged by a wrench or the like to advance or
withdraw the fastener 58 is housed completely within the fastening
volume 54. As discussed above, the lock 62 locks the tray 46
against movement relative to the security housing 50. As a result,
once the tray 46 and the security housing 50 are locked together,
the fastening volume 54 is substantially secure and the fasteners
58 are inaccessible. Therefore, a thief is not able to physically
get to the fasteners 58 without first defeating the lock 62. This
provides a substantial degree of theft deterrent.
[0048] With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the interconnection of the
security enclosure 22 and the structural mount 18 will now be
discussed in greater detail. As noted above, the hole 53 in the
security housing 50 is configured to receive at least a portion of
the swivel mechanism 26. In one embodiment, the swivel mechanism 26
comprises a pivot dome 82 that partially resides within the
fastening volume 54, a pitch and roll plate 86, a plurality of
adjustment members 90, and an interconnecting element 94. The pitch
and roll plate 86 is shown as having a rectangular shape in many of
the drawings. However, many other arrangements of the pitch and
roll plate are also possible. For example, a triangular pitch and
roll plate 86' is shown in FIG. 2A which employs three adjustment
members 90.
[0049] The pivot dome 82 has a top portion 98, a bottom portion
102, and an external surface 106 that extends between the top
portion 98 and the bottom portion 102. The perimeter of the top
portion 98 is smaller than the size of the hole 53. The perimeter
of the bottom portion 102 is greater than the size of the hole 53.
Because the size of the hole 53 is less than the perimeter of the
top portion 98 but greater than the perimeter of the bottom portion
102, the external surface 106 engages an edge of the hole 53 of the
security housing 50. Accordingly, when the pivot dome 82 of the
swivel mechanism 26 is placed partially within the fastening volume
54 and within the hole 53, and fixed vertically, the security
enclosure 22 is also fixed vertically.
[0050] In one embodiment, the external surface 106 of the pivot
dome 82 is a hemispherical surface. However, other shaped surfaces
will also work, such as conical, elliptical, or parabolic shaped
surfaces. In general, the perimeter of the hole 53 can be located
on the external surface 106 of the pivot dome 82 in a variety of
positions, which orients the security enclosure 22 in the pitch and
in the roll directions.
[0051] In one embodiment, the swivel mechanism 26 is attached to
the structural mount 18 by the interconnecting element 94 (See FIG.
4). The interconnecting element 94 includes, in one embodiment, a
coupler 110, a threaded tube 114, and a plurality of lock nuts 118.
The coupler 110 is an element having internal threads configured to
mate with the external threads on the end 34 of the column 32. In
one embodiment, the coupler 110 is configured to mate with a one
and one-half inch inner diameter threaded hollow column. The
coupler 110 also has internal threads configured to engage external
threads located on the threaded tube 114. In one embodiment, the
threaded tube 114 has a length of about one and three-quarters
inches. A first locking nut 118a is provided on the threaded tube
114 between the coupler 110 and the pitch and roll plate 86. A
second locking nut 118b is provided on the threaded tube 114
between the pitch and roll plate 86 and the top portion 98 of the
pivot dome 82. A third locking nut 118c is provided on the threaded
tube 114 between the top portion 98 of the pivot dome 82 and the
fastening volume 54. In one embodiment, the locking nuts 118a-118c
each are one and one-half inch locking nuts.
[0052] Arrangements other than that of FIG. 4 are also possible.
FIGS. 1A and 4A illustrate another manner of interconnecting the
swivel mechanism 26 and the structural mount 18. In this
embodiment, the locking nut 118a is eliminated and the locking nut
118b is replaced with a rubber spacer 117. The rubber spacer 117 is
located between the pitch and roll plate 86 and the top portion 98
of the pivot dome 82.
[0053] Advantageously, the locking nut 118c that secures the pivot
dome 82 to the security housing 50 is located within the fastening
volume 54. Thus, the locking nut 118c is also not accessible once
the lock 62 locks the tray 46 to the security housing 50. As with
the fasteners 58, this provides the advantage that a thief would
not be able to easily remove the swivel mechanism 26 without first
defeating the lock 62.
[0054] In one embodiment, the security apparatus 10 is provided
with a security bar 130. The security bar 130 is configured to at
least partially surround a portion of the projector 14 or other
electronic device mounted on the security enclosure 22. FIG. 4
illustrates that the security bar 130 has a first engagement
portion 132 that extends through the security tray 46 and into the
fastening volume 54 wherein the first engagement portion 132 is
engaged by a fastener 134, e.g., a nut. In some embodiments, the
security bar completely surrounds the projector 14 and has a second
engagement portion 136 that extends through the security tray 46
and into the fastening volume 54 wherein the second engagement
portion 136 is engaged by a fastener 138, e.g., a nut.
[0055] Preferably, the security bar 130 includes a first adjustment
portion 140 and a second portion 142 configured to engage the first
adjustment portion 140. The engagement of the first adjustment
portion 140 by the second portion 142 can be achieved by providing
internal threads on the second portion 142 and external threads on
the first adjustment portion 140. Preferably the threads are long
enough to provide a range of adjustability that is large enough to
accommodate most projectors 14 or other devices that can be mounted
on the security enclosure 22. The horizontal length of the security
bar 130 can be increased or decreased by relative rotational motion
between the first portion 140 and the second portion 142 of the
security bar 130. Thus the security bar 130 can be used with a wide
variety of devices having different shapes and sizes.
[0056] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to provide a second
security bar 146 that is similar to the first security bar 130 in
that the security bar 146 is adjustable and is configured to at
least partially surround the projector 14 or other device that is
attached to the security enclosure 22. If two security bars are
employed, they can be mounted on the security enclosure 22 in a
generally perpendicular fashion, as in FIG. 1. Preferably, if two
security bars are employed, they are mounted on the security
enclosure 22 in a generally parallel fashion (as shown in FIG.
1A).
[0057] While the security bars 130, 146 provide a further measure
of security for the projector 14 or other device, in some
applications they may reduce the sleek appearance of the security
apparatus 10. Accordingly, in some applications, it may be
desirable to provide split loom that can encircle the security bars
130, 146. While provided mainly for its appearance, the split loom
also can interfere with an attempt to saw through the security bars
130, 146.
[0058] FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate the security enclosure 22 in
different orientations relative to the structure 30. As mentioned
above, the security housing 50 can be swiveled in different
orientations by the swivel mechanism 26. This allows for adjustment
and orientation of the security enclosure 22. For example, the
security enclosure 22 can be rotated about a longitudinal axis that
extends through the elongate element 32. The swivel mechanism
provides 360 degrees of rotation of the security enclosure 22 with
respect to the swivel mechanism 26. Once the rotation of the
security enclosure 22 with respect to the swivel mechanism 26 has
been selected, the pitch and roll orientation of the projector 14
can be selected.
[0059] The projector 14 can be oriented in the pitch and roll axes
by positioning the security enclosure 22 as desired on the pivot
dome 82. Adjustment about the pitch axis involves orienting the
security enclosure 22 and the projector 14 about a transverse axis,
e.g., an axis parallel to the upper surface of the enclosure 22 and
perpendicular to the long axis thereof. The swivel mechanism 26
preferably allows a pitch adjustment of the security enclosure 22
of between about fifteen degrees above a horizontal plane and about
fifteen degrees below a horizontal plane. Adjustment about the roll
axis involves orienting the security enclosure 22 and the projector
14 about a longitudinal axis, e.g., an axis that is parallel to the
long axis thereof. The swivel mechanism 26 preferably allows a roll
adjustment of the security enclosure 22 of between about fifteen
degrees above a horizontal plane and about fifteen degrees below a
horizontal plane. The swivel mechanism 26 can also be constructed
to provide a greater range of adjustment if desired.
[0060] When the security enclosure 22 is suitably positioned on the
pivot dome 82, the plurality of adjustment members 90 then can be
positioned so that the adjustment members 90 extend between the
pitch and roll plate 86 and the top surface of the security housing
50. This prevents the security enclose 22 from moving once its
position has been selected.
[0061] Alternatively, the security enclosure 22 can be oriented by
simply selectively advancing or retracting one or more of the
adjustment members 90 with respect to the pitch and roll plate 86.
As the adjustment members 90 are advanced they ultimately contact
the top surface of the security housing 50, which causes the
security housing 50 to move on the pivot dome 82. As the security
housing 50 moves on the pivot dome 82, the pitch angle .alpha. and
the roll angle .beta. are altered (See FIG. 6 and 7).
[0062] In one embodiment, the adjustment members 90 are threaded
bolts that extend through threaded holes in the pitch and roll
plate 86. In the illustrated embodiment, four adjustment members 90
are shown. However, in other embodiments, fewer adjustment members
90 can be used. In a particular embodiment, three adjustment
members 90 are used. Of course more adjustment members could also
be used, and the adjustment members 90 need not be threaded bolts.
Examples of other types of adjustment members 90 include a ball
joint clamp, a rod clamp, a cable, and a rope.
[0063] Another advantage of the security apparatus 10 is that the
security enclosure 22 and the projector 14 attached thereto can be
positioned at a selected orientation without unlocking the lock 62.
This enhances the security of the security apparatus 10 by reducing
the number of times the security apparatus 10 must be opened and by
reducing the number of individuals who need to have access to the
fastening volume 54.
[0064] FIGS. 8-9 show another embodiment of a security apparatus
210. The security apparatus 210 is similar to the security
apparatus 10, except as set forth below. The security apparatus 210
includes a structural mount 218 and a ball joint 226. In some
embodiments, the structural mount 218 is connected to the ball
joint 226 and is connected to the structure 30. In some
embodiments, a portion of the structural mount 218 forms a part of
the ball joint 226. The structural mount 218 preferably has threads
222 which facilitate tightening and loosening of the ball joint
226.
[0065] The ball joint 226 comprises a ball 228, a ball enclosure,
e.g. a collet (discussed below), and a clamping mechanism 230. The
ball 228 is coupled with the security enclosure 22 in a secure
manner. In the illustrated embodiment, a hole 53A is formed in the
security housing 50. A bolt 242 extends through the hole 53A. A
washer 246 preferably is placed between the bolt 242 and the
security housing 50. The bolt 242 is advanced into an appropriately
sized and threaded hole formed in the ball 228. As discussed above,
the security tray 46 is slidably received by the security housing
50 in some embodiments. The tray 46 and the housing 50 define a
substantially secure fastening volume 54 (see FIG. 8), wherein at
least one fastener 58 for attaching the projector 14 and at least a
portion of the ball joint 226 (e.g., a portion of the bolt 242) are
housed securely and are shielded from access by a thief. The
fastening 54 volume is made more secure by the lock 62 (see FIG. 9)
in the illustrated embodiment.
[0066] One form of a ball enclosure is a collet 250, illustrated in
FIG. 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the collet 250 forms a part
of the structural mount 218. In another embodiment, the collet 250
is a separate component which is connected to or coupled with the
structural mount 218 in a suitable manner. In some embodiments, the
collet 250 is arranged as an expandable sleeve that receives the
ball 228. In one arrangement, the collet 250 includes a slot 254
that extends from the end where the ball 228 is located (See FIG.
8). In one embodiment, two diametrically opposed slots 254 are
provided. The slots 254 permit opposing sides of the collet 250 to
move perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the structural mount
218. The movement of the opposing sides of the collet 250 allows
the clearance between the inside surfaces of the collet 250 to
change, as needed for adjustment of the ball joint 226, as
discussed below.
[0067] The lower end of the collet 250 preferably is arranged to
retain the ball 228 when the ball joint 226 is loosened. In the
illustrated embodiment, the collet 250 includes a retaining lip 258
extending inward from the inside surface of the collet 250. The
retaining lip 258 constricts the size of the opening of the collet
250 to a size smaller than the diameter of the ball 228. Thus, the
retaining lip 258 retains the ball 228 within the collet 250 when
the ball joint 226 is loosened.
[0068] The clamping mechanism 230 of the ball joint 226 is
configured to apply force to the ball 228 in a manner that
selectively immobilizes the ball 228. In the illustrated
embodiment, the clamping mechanism 230 includes a nut 262 that is
advanced onto the structural mount 218 and a ring 266 positioned
between the nut 262 and the collet 250. The ring 266 has an inner
diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the end of the
collet 250 that is farthest from the ball 228. The inner diameter
of the ring 266 is smaller than the outer diameter of the end of
the collet 250 where the ball 228 is located. While the collet 250
has been described as conical and the ring 266 as cylindrical,
other embodiments are also possible, e.g., both the collet 250 and
the ring 266 could be conical.
[0069] The nut 258 and the ring 266 are configured so that the
lower edge of the nut 258 engages the upper side of the ring 266.
Advancement of the nut 262 on the structural mount 218 causes the
ring 266 to be advanced on the collet 250. As the nut 262 is
advanced, the ring 266 eventually engages the outer surface of the
collet 250. The slots 254 allow the collet 250 to contract under
the inward pressure applied by the ring 266. As the inner surface
of the collet 250 engages the ball 228, ever-greater pressure is
applied to the ball 228. Eventually, the pressure applied to the
ball 228 is sufficient to immobilize the ball 228 so that the
security enclosure 22 will not move with respect to the structure
30.
[0070] The clamping of the ball joint 226 advantageously permits
positioning of the security enclosure 22 with respect to the
structure 30. For example, the security enclosure 22 can be rotated
about a longitudinal axis that extends through the structural mount
218. The ball joint 226 provides 360 degrees of rotation of the
security enclosure 22 with respect to the structure 30. Once the
rotational position of the security enclosure 22 with respect to
the structure 30 has been selected, the pitch and roll orientation
of the projector 14 can be selected.
[0071] The projector 14 can be oriented in the pitch and roll axes
by rotating the ball 228 with respect to the collet 250. Adjustment
about the pitch axis involves orienting the security enclosure 22
and the projector 14 about a transverse axis, e.g., an axis
parallel to the upper surface of the enclosure 22 and perpendicular
to the long axis thereof. The ball joint 226 preferably allows a
pitch adjustment of the security enclosure 22 of between about
fifteen degrees above a horizontal plane and about fifteen degrees
below a horizontal plane. Adjustment about the roll axis involves
orienting the security enclosure 22 and the projector 14 about a
longitudinal axis, e.g., an axis that is parallel to the long axis
thereof. Adjustment through a roll angle of a is illustrated in
FIG. 9. The ball joint 226 preferably allows a roll adjustment of
the security enclosure 22 of between about fifteen degrees above a
horizontal plane and about fifteen degrees below a horizontal
plane. The ball joint 226 can also be constructed to provide a
greater range of adjustment if desired. Also, the ball joint 226
advantageously permits adjustment about axes other than the pitch
and the roll axes, as will be understood by one skilled in the
art.
[0072] When the security enclosure 22 is suitably positioned by the
ball joint 226, the nut 262 is advanced toward the collet 250. As
discussed above, the nut 262 engages a surface of the ring 266 and
advancement of the nut 262 causes the ring 266 to be advanced.
Eventually, advancement of the ring 266 causes pressure on the ball
228 to increase to a point where the security enclosure 22 is
immobilized. This prevents the security enclose 22 from moving once
its position has been selected by the ball joint 226.
[0073] Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of
certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those
skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the
specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments
and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof.
Accordingly, the invention is not intended to be limited by the
specific disclosed embodiments.
* * * * *