U.S. patent application number 11/564195 was filed with the patent office on 2007-06-28 for adjustable work surface with ball and socket receivers.
Invention is credited to Daniel V. Steenson.
Application Number | 20070145216 11/564195 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38257083 |
Filed Date | 2007-06-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070145216 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Steenson; Daniel V. |
June 28, 2007 |
ADJUSTABLE WORK SURFACE WITH BALL AND SOCKET RECEIVERS
Abstract
A multi-functional adjustable tray that mounts on the arm of a
chair to provide a comfortably accessible work surface to support a
computer mouse and other IO devices. The adjustable tray may be
easily mounted to an arm of a chair and provides width, length,
rotation, and storage adjustments. The adjustable tray includes a
platform that is pivotally connected to a support device through a
ball and socket connection device thus allowing wide degrees of
latitude and flexibility of use so as to accommodate increased ease
of use with the I/O device. The ball and socket connection device
includes a mechanism for selectively restricting movement of the
platform.
Inventors: |
Steenson; Daniel V.; (EAGLE,
ID) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DYKAS, SHAVER & NIPPER, LLP
P.O. BOX 877
BOISE
ID
83701-0877
US
|
Family ID: |
38257083 |
Appl. No.: |
11/564195 |
Filed: |
November 28, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11382337 |
May 9, 2006 |
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11564195 |
Nov 28, 2006 |
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11281572 |
Nov 16, 2005 |
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11382337 |
May 9, 2006 |
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11250654 |
Oct 13, 2005 |
7216930 |
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11281572 |
Nov 16, 2005 |
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10921540 |
Aug 18, 2004 |
7131688 |
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11250654 |
Oct 13, 2005 |
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60756682 |
Jan 5, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
248/229.14 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 7/70 20130101; A47C
7/68 20130101; A47C 7/705 20180801; A47B 21/0314 20130101; A47B
23/02 20130101; G06F 3/0395 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
248/229.14 |
International
Class: |
A47B 96/06 20060101
A47B096/06 |
Claims
1. An adjustable work surface for connection with a piece of
furniture, said work surface comprising: a platform having a flat
working surface, said platform having a bottom surface, said
platform configured for attachment to a first attachment body; a
first attachment body for connecting the bottom surface of the
platform to connection device first end; a second attachment body
for connecting the a piece of furniture to the connection device
second end; the connection device, having a first end and a second
end, said first end comprising a first joint configured for
selective rotation about its connection with the first attachment
body, said second end comprising a second joint configured for
selective rotation about its connection with the second attachment
body.
2. The adjustable work surface of claim 1 wherein said first and
second joints comprise ball and socket joints.
3. The adjustable work surface of claim 1, wherein said connection
device comprises at least one intermediate joint between said first
and second joints, thereby defining a connection device first
sleeve connected at said at least one intermediate joint to a
connection device second sleeve.
4. The adjustable work surface of claim 3, wherein said at least
one intermediate joint comprises a third and fourth joints
configured for selective rotation.
5. The adjustable work surface of claim 4, wherein said third and
fourth joints comprise ball and socket joints.
6. The adjustable work surface of claim 5, wherein said first
sleeve comprises the socket for said third joint, wherein said
second sleeve comprises the socket for said fourth joint and
wherein the balls for the third and fourth joint sockets are
interconnected by a bar thereby providing for the interconnection
of the third and fourth joints.
7. The adjustable work surface of claim 2, wherein said connection
device further comprises at least one tensioning device for
adjusting the tension in the joints thereby allowing a user to
control the position of the platform relative to the piece of
furniture.
8. The adjustable work surface of claim 4, wherein said connection
device further comprises at least one tensioning device for
adjusting the tension in the joints thereby allowing a user to
control the position of the platform relative to the piece of
furniture.
9. The adjustable work surface of claim 1, wherein said second
attachment body is connected to an extension arm, said extension
arm configured for insertion and connection within a receiver
defined in said a piece of furniture.
10. The adjustable work surface of claim 9, wherein said a piece of
furniture is a chair arm.
11. The adjustable work surface of claim 9, wherein said a piece of
furniture is a portion of a desk.
12. The adjustable work surface of claim 9, wherein said a piece of
furniture is a portion of a table.
13. The adjustable work surface of claim 2, wherein said second
attachment body comprises one or more balls for connecting with
said socket joints.
14. An adjustable work surface for connection with a piece of
furniture, said work surface comprising: a platform having a flat
working surface, said platform having a bottom surface defining a
plane, said platform configured for attachment to a first
attachment body; a first attachment body for connecting the bottom
surface of the platform to connection device first end; a second
attachment body for connecting a piece of furniture to the
connection device second end; the connection device, having a first
end and a second end, said first end comprising a first joint
configured for selective rotation in a first plane, said second end
comprising a second joint configured for selective rotation in a
plurality of planes, said first plane generally perpendicular to
the plane of the platform's bottom surface.
15. The adjustable work surface of claim 14, wherein said first
joint comprises a pivot joint and said second joint comprises a
ball and socket joint.
16. The adjustable work surface of claim 14, wherein said
connection device further comprises at least one tensioning device
for adjusting the tension in the joints thereby allowing a user to
control the position of the platform relative to the piece of
furniture.
17. The adjustable work surface of claim 14, wherein said second
attachment body is connected to an extension arm, said extension
arm configured for insertion and connection within a receiver
defined in said a piece of furniture.
18. An adjustable work surface for use on an arm chair, said work
surface comprising: a platform having a flat working surface, said
platform having a bottom surface, said platform configured for
attachment to a first attachment body; a first attachment body for
connecting the bottom surface of the platform to connection device
first end; a second attachment body for connecting the arm chair to
the connection device second end; the connection device, having a
first end and a second end, said first end comprising a first joint
configured for selective rotation in a first plane, said second end
comprising a second joint configured for selective rotation in a
second plane, said first plane generally perpendicular to said
second plane.
19. The adjustable work surface of claim 18, further comprising: an
armchair stop for supporting and storing said platform wherein said
platform is pivotally adjustably connected to said armchair stop by
a rotational fastener allowing said platform to rotate in a
horizontal plane and be stored in a vertical plane; at least two
parallel guides adjustably connected to said armchair stop to mount
and secure the adjustable tray to fit the width dimension of said
chair arm; and at least one compression element which passes around
said at least two parallel guides to compress and secure said
parallel guides to said chair arm, wherein said platform further
defines at least one curved slot for allowing said platform to be
selectively attached to said armchair stop through said slot.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part application of a
pending application, entitled Adjustable Work Surface filed by
Daniel V. Steenson on May 5, 2006 with application Ser. No.
11/382,337 which is a continuation in part of a pending
application, entitled ADJUSTABLE ARMCHAIR TRAY, filed by Daniel V.
Steenson on Nov. 16, 2005, with application Ser. No. 11/281,572,
which is a continuation-in-part application of a pending
application, entitled ADJUSTABLE ARMCHAIR TRAY, filed by Daniel V.
Steenson on Oct. 13, 2005, with application Ser. No. 11/250,654,
which is a continuation-in-part application claiming the priority
date from the issued patent entitled ADJUSTABLE ARMCHAIR MOUSE
TRAY, filed by Daniel V. Steenson on Aug. 18, 2004, now U.S. Pat.
No. 7,131,688. This application also claims priority to provisional
application entitled COMPUTER WORK SURFACE, filed by Daniel V.
Steenson on Jan. 5, 2006 with application Ser. No. 60/756,682.
These applications are incorporated herein by these references.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to the field of
computer accessories. More particularly, the present invention
provides an adjustable tray that may be easily mounted to the arm
of a chair to provide a generally planar working surface to support
a computer mouse and other accessories, devices and objects.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Computers are operated through the use of peripheral systems
and devices such as a keyboard, roller mouse or optical mouse, pen,
joystick, keyboard, keypad, roller ball, trackball, personal
digital assistant, cell phone, or similar device or other device,
referred to collectively as IO devices. IO devices enable a user to
interact with a computer or network to send or receive information,
make decisions, and carry out various other functions. Direct
physical contact with, and therefore close proximity to, these
devices are essential to their operation.
[0004] However, in most circumstances a computer user works at a
desk and leans forward or sideways from a comfortable sitting
position to reach a keyboard or mouse on a desk or other flat
surface. Reaching for the keyboard or the mouse in this way makes
it very difficult to maintain proper posture and operate the
computer comfortably. Use of IO devices on a desktop stresses the
back, shoulder and the wrist. For wrist stress and carpal tunnel
syndrome, numerous products, such as ergonomically shaped mice and
wrist supports, attempt to address the symptoms of this stress
without addressing the awkward positioning that often causes
strain.
[0005] Additionally, persons with debilitating injuries may find
that reaching to a desk to use IO devices is difficult or painful.
Accordingly, there is a need for a surface for supporting one or
more IO devices that maintains a position so that the user may
maintain ergonomically correct posture and wrist position.
[0006] The purpose of the foregoing Abstract is to enable the
United States Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally,
and especially the scientists, engineers, and practitioners in the
art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology,
to determine quickly from a cursory inspection, the nature and
essence of the technical disclosure of the application. The
Abstract is neither intended to define the invention, which is
measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the
scope of the invention in any way.
[0007] Features of the present invention will become readily
apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed
description, wherein only the preferred embodiments of the
invention will be described and shown, simply by way of
illustration of the best modes contemplated to manifest the
invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of
modification in various obvious respects all without departing from
the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description of the
preferred embodiments are to be regarded as illustrative in nature,
and not as restrictive in nature.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a top view of an embodiment of an armchair
tray.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, as
mounted on a chair arm.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0011] FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of a movable fastener.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
1.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a side view of an embodiment of the invention
where the armchair stop is secured directly to the chair arm.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of an armchair tray
having a rotatable joint.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a side view of an embodiment of an armchair tray
having a slideable guide.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a top view of an embodiment of a platform for
supporting an IO device.
[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the platform of FIG. 9.
[0018] FIG. 11 depicts a method of supporting a keyboard using two
embodiments of a platform.
[0019] FIG. 12 depicts an embodiment of a platform for supporting
two IO devices.
[0020] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of an embodiment of a platform and
an embodiment of an arm for supporting the platform.
[0021] FIG. 14 is a top view of another embodiment of an arm.
[0022] FIG. 15. is a top view of another embodiment of a platform
and associated connection device.
[0023] FIG. 16 is a side view of another embodiment of the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 17 is a side view of one embodiment of a rotational
fastener of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 18 is bottom plan view of the embodiment of FIG.
17.
[0026] FIG. 19 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the
present invention.
[0027] FIG. 20 is a partial, side view of the embodiment of FIG.
20.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0028] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments
thereof have been shown in the drawings and will be described below
in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no
intention to limit the invention to the specific forms disclosed;
on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications,
alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the
spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0029] FIG. 1 shows a top view of an embodiment of the adjustable
tray 10. The adjustable tray 10 includes a platform 12, which
provides a generally planar surface for IO devices and other
writing utensils. Additionally, the platform 12 may be used to
write notes, secure a remote control, hold food or a beverage, or
facilitate other similar uses. The adjustable tray 10 may be used
on any device or location that is equipped with a chair arm or
substantially equivalent structure. For example, many automobile
seats are now equipped with armrests that the adjustable tray 10
would easily adapt to fit for the previously mentioned uses.
[0030] The shape defined by the perimeter of platform 12 may vary
with the application, including square, rectangular, circular, or
other shapes. The chairs to which the adjustable tray 10 may be
attached are often mounted on rollers. In normal operation, the
user may roll the chair and cause the platform 12 to contact a desk
or other external object. To avoid being captured between the
external object and the chair arm, the perimeter of the platform 12
may be shaped generally as an oval or an ellipse in some
embodiments, and preferably modified by a peak 15. Peak, in this
context, means a region of the perimeter that converges more
sharply than an oval or ellipse. The overall oval shape of the
platform 12 allows the platform 12 to rotate to either side of the
chair arm and slide along the object as the object gently pushes it
aside. The peak 15 ensures that the platform 12 swings to one side
or the other, rather than being captured along the long axis of the
chair arm. The perimeter of the platform 12 need not be perfectly
elliptical; rather, the perimeter of the platform 12 preferably
curves smoothly along the sides, and curving more sharply on the
end.
[0031] The platform 12 and other parts of the adjustable tray 10
may be built or molded of any material that allows for strength and
ease of use such as wood, plastic or other similar materials. The
platform 12 may incorporate at least one retainer 14, preferably
located around the periphery of the platform 12, to allow a mouse
pad, or other devices to be retained within the perimeter of the
platform 12. The retainer 14 provides a boundary that prevents IO
devices or other materials from falling off the platform 12. In
some embodiments, one or more discrete retainers 14 may be placed
on all sides of the platform 12 to assure that a device does not
fall off any side of the platform 12.
[0032] A pad 16 or other similar material may be positioned on top
of the platform 12 and configured to be easily replaced when worn
out. The pad 16 is preferably made of materials similar to those
used for basic stand-alone computer mouse pads, typically neoprene
with a nylon coating. Additionally, the pad 16 may be rubber,
plastic, nylon, hook and loop fastener, or other material that
facilitates the operation of an IO device. To prevent the pad 16
from falling when the platform 12 is placed in a stored or
disengaged position, pad 16 may be held in place by adhesive or
restraining tabs (not shown) protruding from the retainer 14. In
other embodiments, the pad retainers may be a molded part of the
platform 12, or clamps, tie downs, hook and loop fasteners, snaps
or other elements may be used to maintain the correct positioning
of the pad 16 on the platform 12.
[0033] In some embodiments of the present invention, IO devices may
be rigidly attached to the platform 12, eliminating the need for
retainer 14. Alternatively, the platform 12 may be integrated with
the case of the IO device, so that the platform 12 and the IO
device are presented to the user as a unit.
[0034] FIGS. 9 and 10 depict an embodiment with an alternative
retainer assembly. Retaining strip 17 is placed around pad 16 and
attached to platform 12. While FIG. 9 shows pad 16 and retaining
strip 17 attached to platform 12 with an adhesive, in other
embodiments pad 16 and retaining strip 17 may be affixed to
platform 12 with an adhesive, clips, or retaining tabs. Retaining
strip 17 presents a relatively high friction surface to the IO
device, such as a computer mouse, so that the IO device is
prevented from easily sliding off the surface of pad 16. High
friction in this context means a higher friction coefficient than
the coefficient of friction between pad 16 and the IO device.
Coefficient of friction is a scalar value that describes ratio of
the force of friction between two bodies (in this case, between the
IO device and pad 16 or retaining strip 17) and the force pressing
the bodies together.
[0035] In some embodiments, the top surface of retaining strip 17
is level with the top surface of pad 16, so an IO device may slide
or roll partway onto retaining strip 17. In many applications, this
will present a progressively increasing resistance to the user of
the IO device as the user moves the IO device near the edge of
platform 12. In some embodiments, retaining strip 17 is level with
the pad 16 along the boundary between retaining strip 17 and pad
16, and retaining strip 17 gets progressively thicker as it
approaches the perimeter of platform 12 along a radial line
extending roughly from the center of platform 12 to the perimeter
of platform 12; in other words, retaining strip 17 is thicker along
the edge of platform 12 than it is next to pad 16. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 9, retaining strip 17 does not completely
encircle pad 16, leaving a region open near the user's wrist to
extend the usable area for a mouse or similar IO device. In other
embodiments, retaining strip 17 completely encircles pad 16.
[0036] In a related embodiment, retaining strip 17 may be
constructed of hook and loop material, such as Velcro.RTM., which
may be used to retain an IO device such as a keyboard. For example,
retaining strip 17 may be constructed of the loop side of the
material, and one or more strips of the hook side may be attached
to the bottom of a keyboard. The keyboard may be placed on platform
12 so that the hook material engages the loop material, preventing
the keyboard from sliding on the surface of platform 12. In this
way, the keyboard is securely attached to platform 12 for use, but
easily removed to use platform 12 for another purpose or to allow
the user to exit the armchair. In this embodiment, retaining strip
17 may completely encircle pad 16 or may leave an open region as
shown in FIG. 9.
[0037] FIG. 10 illustrates that a mouse 102 or similar IO device is
retained by retaining strip 17 when platform 12 is tilted to the
side. Embodiments of platform 12 may be used in applications other
than a removable armchair tray as depicted in FIGS. 1 through 8.
For example, platform 12 may be used on a slide-out keyboard drawer
found on some desks, or on ergonomic keyboard and mouse supports.
The embodiments shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 are particularly useful in
the applications where the IO device is supported by tiltable
structure, as often found on ergonomic keyboard supports.
[0038] Referring again to FIG. 1, a movable fastener 18 passes
through a hole 20 in the platform 12, pivotally securing the
platform 12 to an armchair stop 22. The movable fastener 18 may be
a threaded nut and bolt, a pin connection with a threaded end for
tightening purposes, or any other element that provides a
rotational pivot for the angular adjustment of the platform 12,
while still interconnecting the platform 12 with the armchair stop
22. In the embodiment of movable fastener 18 shown in FIG. 4, the
movable fastener 18 includes a threaded bolt 40. Threaded nut 42
screws onto the shank of bolt 40, capturing the platform 12 between
threaded nut 42 and the head 44 of bolt 40. Tightening the nut 42
secures the platform 12 and prevents it from rotating; loosening
nut 42 slightly releases the platform 12 enough to allow rotation
to a comfortable position.
[0039] The movable fastener 18 is preferably ergonomically designed
or covered so that it does not interfere with the user during use
of devices on the adjustable tray 10. This may be accomplished by
incorporating a rounded or other shape that allows it to be easily
tightened while simultaneously maintaining user comfort. Rounded,
in this context, means that the nut 42 has no sharp edges exposed
to the user when installed.
[0040] Referring now to FIG. 2, a side view of the embodiment of
FIG. 1, the armchair stop 22 is shaped to be positioned directly
against a chair arm 24 while preventing the platform 12 from
sliding toward the back of the chair. On some chairs, that position
will be where the armrest transitions from horizontal to vertical.
The adjustable tray 10 will also work on different styles of arms
and chairs with the only general compatibility requirement being
that the chair has an armrest equivalent. The armchair stop 22 has
a curved or slanted region 26 to accommodate any curvature of chair
arm 24. When the region 26 of armchair stop 22 abuts the chair arm
24, the chair arm 24 provides additional support to the adjustable
tray 10.
[0041] In one example embodiment, the platform 12 is constructed on
two levels: a first level that supports an IO device, and a second
level lower than the first level through which the fastener 18
passes. This two-tier structure allows the first level to be
generally level with the chair arm, so that the user's wrist is
approximately straight when using the input device without
interference by the movable fastener 18. Optionally, a wrist pad or
cover (not shown) may be placed on the second level to help support
the user's wrist.
[0042] FIG. 3 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.
Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the movable fastener 18 flexibly
secures the platform 12 to armchair stop 22 by passing through the
hole 20 in the platform 12, through a slot 28 in the armchair stop
22, and into a cavity 30 (FIG. 3) in armchair stop 22. The slot 28
in the armchair stop 22 has a generally horizontal top leg 32 (FIG.
1) having curved regions on each end and connecting to two
generally vertical legs 34 on either side of armchair stop 22 (FIG.
2). The slot 28 has additional generally horizontal side legs 36 on
either side of armchair stop 22, terminating in an enlarged region
38. The shape of slot 28 allows the platform 12 to be positioned on
the top of armchair stop 22 for use, or positioned to either side
of chair arm 24 by sliding the fastener 18 from horizontal leg 32
into one of vertical legs 34. Vertical legs 34 need not be
precisely vertical: they may slope fore and aft or side-to-side to
accommodate chair arms of various shapes. Similarly, horizontal
side legs 36 need not be precisely horizontal.
[0043] As a result, a person may use the adjustable tray 10 with
the platform 12 horizontal and then rotate the platform 12 and the
movable fastener 18 within the slot 28 so that the platform 12 is
in a vertical storage position. The transition is easily made by
loosening the movable fastener 18 slightly, and then sliding the
movable fastener 18 and the connected platform 12 within the slot
28 from the horizontal plane to the vertical plane. In another
embodiment, the slot 28 has only one vertical leg 34 so that the
platform 12 may be stored only on one side of the chair arm 24.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 2, the platform 12 may be removed from the
armchair stop 22 by sliding the movable fastener 18 along the leg
36 of the slot 28 to enlarged region 38. Enlarged region 38 is
sufficiently large to allow an end of movable fastener 18 to pass
through, releasing the movable fastener 18 and the platform 12 from
the armchair stop 22. In some embodiments, a top leg 39 connecting
with slot 28 may be included to allow additional adjustability of
the fore and aft position of platform 12.
[0045] The embodiment of the movable fastener 18 shown in FIG. 4
has a threaded bolt 40 and an ergonomically shaped threaded nut 42.
Bolt 40 has a head 44 that is small enough to pass through enlarged
region 38, yet still engage legs 32, 34, and 36 of slot 28. An
embodiment of bolt 40 has a frustoconical ring 46 circumvolving the
shank of bolt 40 and one or more bosses 48 protruding from the
shank of bolt 40.
[0046] The hole 20 in the platform 12 may be sized to allow the
bolt 40 with the ring 46 to pass through as a press fit. After the
ring 46 passes through the hole 20 (FIG. 2), the bolt 40 is
captured on the topside of the platform 12 by the ring 46 and on
the bottom side by head 44, while still allowed to move a short
distance in an axial direction. The hole 20 may optionally be made
of a smaller diameter at the upper end, to allow the ring 46 to
easily pass through during assembly, while still capturing the bolt
40 during operation. In another embodiment, annular ring may be
replaced with one or more barbs.
[0047] One or more bosses 48 engage corresponding axial grooves or
similar features in the hole 20 to prevent rotation of the bolt 40
relative to the platform 12 when the nut 42 is tightened,
eliminating the need for a washer and facilitating tightening of
the nut 42 to secure the platform 12. While the bosses 48 are
depicted as cylinders, the bosses 48 may be of any shape that
engages the grooves and prevents rotation, including a polyhedron
or hemisphere.
[0048] The adjustable tray 10 further includes one or more guides
50 connected to the armchair stop 22. Viewed from above as shown in
FIG. 1, the guides 50 are approximately L-shaped on each end, and
one leg of each guide 50 is inserted into a hole 58 and a hole 60
in the armchair stop 22. Holes 58 and 60 are offset, permitting the
legs inserted into the slot to be relatively long, accommodating
both wide chair arms and narrow chair arms, where the legs overlap
each other in the slots. In an embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the rear
of the armchair stop 22 may include one or more recesses 62 sized
to accommodate guides 50, allowing guides 50 to be adjusted to
accommodate a chair arm 24 narrower than armchair stop 22.
[0049] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the guides 50 are
compressed against the sides of the chair arm 24 by at least one
securing device 52. The securing device 52 as herein defined
includes, but is not limited to, a clamp, tape, bungee cords,
string, tie cords, or straps. Each securing device 52 preferably
passes around the chair arm 24 and guides 50 and is preferably
fastened by a fastener 54. Fastener 54 may be a Velcro fastener, a
Tabler buckle, a clip, or similar buckling device. The compressive
force of the devices 52 presses the guides 50 against the chair arm
24 and into the armchair stop 22, effectively securing the
adjustable tray 10. This embodiment provides the advantage of
simplicity and allows the adjustable tray 10 to be quickly and
easily mounted to the chair arm 24 with ease.
[0050] Another embodiment may include at least one strap slot or
loop in each guide 50 in which to thread the securing devices 52 to
compress and secure the guides 50 to the chair arm 24. The strap
slots preferably run a substantial length of the guides 50 allowing
the securing devices 52 to be slid or moved to accommodate the
configuration of the chair arm 24 and particularly the support
members.
[0051] In this embodiment, the guides 50 each have a tab 56 on the
end furthest from the armchair stop 22 to prevent securing devices
52 from slipping off the ends of guides 50. Guides 50 may also be
tapered to better conform to curved chair arms.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 2, the guides 50 may curve downward in the
region 64 nearest the armchair stop 22 so that the platform 12 is
approximately level with the uppermost surface of guides 50.
Without the curved region 64, the platform 12 would be positioned
above the chair arm 24, causing the user's wrist to flex upward
when using a mouse or other IO device, potentially causing carpal
tunnel stress within the wrist. In another embodiment, a shallower
or deeper curve positions the platform 12 above or below the chair
arm 24, respectively, which may be comfortable for some users.
Curved region 64 need not be smoothly curved in the S-shape shown;
it may descend sharply in a Z-shape or with perpendicular
angles.
[0053] Adjustable tray 10 may include multiple sets of guides 50,
each set tapered, curved, and including features that best fit a
class of chair arms. The user may then select the set of guides 50
that best fits the user's chair.
[0054] In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 8, each guide 50 may be
inserted into a corresponding cavity 65 in chair arm 24. The walls
of the cavity 65 support the guide 50, which in turn supports the
armchair stop 22. Each guide 50 may slide in and out of the cavity
65, allowing the user to place the platform 12 a comfortable
distance away from the chair arm 24. In some embodiments, the chair
arm 24 has an additional cavity 67, as shown in FIG. 8, adapted to
accept the armchair stop 22, so that the armchair stop 22 may be
retracted into the chair arm 24 and out of the way of the user. In
some embodiments, only one guide 50 is required, because there is
no need to adapt the adjustable tray 10 to fit the width of the
chair arm 24.
[0055] Guides 50 may be eliminated by securing armchair stop 22
directly to chair arm 24, as shown in FIG. 6. Armchair stop 22 may
be secured with one or more permanent fasteners 68, such as screws
or glue, or removable fasteners, such as key and slot hangers.
Using a key and slot hanger, one or more keys attached to armchair
stop 22 engage slots in chair arm 24. Each slot has an enlarged
region so that the key may be disengaged from the slot, allowing
removal of the adjustable tray 10. It is preferable to install the
slots on chair arm 24, rather than the key, so that the key does
not protrude from chair arm 24 when armchair stop 22 is
removed.
[0056] The armchair stop 22, the guides 50, and the securing
devices 52 are preferably lined with a cushioning material 66, as
shown in FIG. 1. The cushioning material 66 allows the guides 50
and the armchair stop 22 to be tightened against the surface of a
chair without scratching or other marring of the chair. Cushioning
material 66 also provides a non-slip surface that prevents movement
during the use of the adjustable tray 10. Cushioning material 66
may be any material such as rubber, plastic or cloth that prevents
slippage and marring of the arm of the chair. In this embodiment,
the cushioning material 66 is neoprene or other non-skid rubberized
material used to form traditional stand-alone mouse pads.
[0057] FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the invention having rotatable
joints that allow the platform 12 to be tilted to comfortably
accommodate a user's hand and wrist position while using a keyboard
or other IO device. In particular, a keyboard that is split into
two parts, one for the left hand and one for the right hand, allows
each keyboard segment to be rotated to fit the user's hand when the
user's arm is resting on the chair arm or held comfortably above or
to the outside of the chair arm. The left keyboard segment is
preferably tilted or rotated counter-clockwise from the user's
perspective; the right keyboard segment is preferably tilted or
rotated clockwise. The angle of rotation varies with the user, the
layout of the chair arm, and the size and configuration of the
keyboard. Referring to FIG. 7, the platform 12 is attached to an
arm 70 that is divided into three segments by a first rotatable
joint 72 and a second rotatable joint 74. An inboard segment 76 of
the arm 70 is attached to the armchair stop 22 by the movable
fastener 18, and an outboard segment 78 of the arm 70 is attached
to the platform 12. A middle segment 80 connects rotatable joints
72 and 74. In this embodiment, the outboard segment 78 rotates on a
first pin 82, and the middle segment 80 rotates about a second pin
84. FIG. 7 shows the outboard segment 78 in an exemplary first
position where the user's wrist extends upward, and an exemplary
second position where the user's wrist flexes downward, designated
as 78'. The rotation of segment 78 about joint 74 is not limited to
the positions shown and may extend to wider or narrower angles.
[0058] The outboard segment 78 may be prevented from rotating
beyond the desired angle by static frictional contact between the
middle segment 80 and the outboard segment 78. The static friction
may be overcome by applying a manual moment to the outboard segment
of the arm 70. The ease of rotation may be controlled by using a
bolt, machine screw, or lag screw with a knurled head as the pin 82
so that the bolt may be tightened or loosened to control the
friction between the segments. An optional rotational control
device 86 may be used to control rotation, such as a rubber washer,
fiber washer, toothed surfaces on segments 78 and 80, or other
suitable rotation controlling device. Rotation of joint 74 may be
controlled in a similar manner, including use of a rotation control
device 86 between the surfaces of middle segment 80 and inboard
segment 76.
[0059] The embodiment shown in FIG. 7 allows the platform to be
rotated about the long axis of the arm 70 via rotatable joint 72.
In other embodiments, the arm 70 or the joint 72 may be angled from
the long axis of the arm 70 to allow the platform to rotate about
an arbitrary axis. Alternatively, the rotatable joint 72 may be
combined with a universal joint to increase flexibility when
positioning the platform 12. It may also be recognized that some
applications require only one rotatable joint, so that platform 12
has only one axis of rotation.
[0060] In some embodiments, the platform 12 is connected to the arm
70 by an adjustable fastener 88. The adjustable fastener 88 may be
a bolt with a knurled head, a pin connection with a threaded end
for tightening purposes, or any other element that provides a
rotational pivot for rotational adjustment of the platform 12. A
friction element 90 may be placed between the arm 70 and the
platform 12 to prevent rotation of the platform 12 when the
adjustable fastener 88 is tightened. The friction element 90 may be
a rubber washer, fiber washer, star washer, or other frictional
device capable of resisting the rotation of platform 12.
Alternatively, the arm 70 may be permanently affixed to the
platform 12.
[0061] While the rotatable joint 72 is particularly useful with
keyboard applications, it is not limited to keyboard applications
and may be used, by way of example, with other IO devices such as
trackballs. In embodiments employing rotatable joint 72, it is
preferable to insure that the size of the retainer 14 is adequate
to retain the IO device when the platform 12 is tilted away from a
level position. As shown in FIG. 7, the retainer 14 is sized to
accommodate a keyboard 100.
[0062] FIG. 7 also shows an alternative embodiment for controlling
the rotation of fastener 18. Flexible material 92 may be affixed to
the inboard segment 76. The fastener 18 passes through the flexible
material 92 so that the frictional contact with the material
prevents easy rotation of the fastener 18. Flexible material 92 may
also cushion the inboard segment 76 where it contacts the armchair
stop 22 and may prevent rotation of the inboard segment 76 relative
to the chair arm 24. Flexible material 92 may be neoprene, rubber,
or similar material capable of lightly gripping the shank of
fastener 18, frictionally preventing rotation of the inboard
segment 76, or cushioning the inboard segment 76. Optionally, a
friction element 94 may be placed on the shaft of fastener 18 so
that it contacts armchair stop 22 when fastener 18 is tightened, as
in FIG. 2. The friction element 94 may be a rubber washer, fiber
washer, star washer, or other frictional device capable of
resisting the rotation of fastener 18.
[0063] Two armchair trays may be used to support a keyboard, as
shown in FIG. 11. In this application, a first armchair tray 110 is
attached to a left chair arm 112, and a second armchair tray 114 is
attached to a right chair arm 116. The first armchair tray 110 is
configured with a platform 12 with a top surface 118 having a high
coefficient of friction. The second armchair tray 114 is configured
with a platform 12 having a top surface divided into two regions: a
high friction region 120 and a relatively smooth region 122 adapted
for use with an IO device such as a mouse. A platform with a
retainer assembly, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, may be used as an
alternative to a platform 12 with its surface divided into two
regions. A keyboard 100 may be placed on the two armchair trays so
that it rests on top surface 118 and region 120, each of which have
high coefficients of friction. Thus, keyboard 100 is supported in a
manner that resists sliding off of the platforms 12. A mouse 102 or
other IO device may be placed on smooth region 122.
[0064] Platform 12 as installed on armchair tray 114 is depicted in
more detail in FIG. 12. High friction region 120 abuts smooth
region 122 along a boundary 124. In some embodiments, the top
surface of region 120 and region 122 is even along boundary 124,
meaning that there is no edge along boundary 124 presented to an IO
device resting on the surface of platform 12. In some embodiments,
the top surfaces of regions 120 and 122 are coplanar. In other
embodiments, the surfaces of region 120 and 122 may be at different
levels.
[0065] An embodiment having more fore and aft adjustability is
shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. Fore and aft adjustability, in this
context, means capable of being adjusted in distance from the chair
arm to the center of platform 12. FIG. 13 is a bottom view of
platform 12 connected to an arm 130 with a rotational fastener 132.
Rotational fastener 132 extends through slot 134 into platform 12.
Slot 134 provides fore and aft adjustability. Movable fastener 18
(not shown) may extend through hole 136 to secure arm 130 to
armchair stop 22 (not shown.)
[0066] Rotational fastener 132 may be tightened to prevent motion
of platform 12 relative to arm 130. Rotational fastener 132 may be
a threaded nut and bolt, a pin connection with a threaded end for
tightening purposes, or any other element that provides a
rotational pivot for the angular adjustment of the platform 12,
while still interconnecting the platform 12 with outboard segment
78. Rotational fastener 132 preferably includes a knurled head so
that it may be tightened or loosened by hand. In some embodiments,
a friction element 90 may be placed between platform 12 and
outboard segment 78 to assist in controlling rotation. In an
alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 14, a top view of arm 130, a
friction material 138 may be secured to arm 130 to prevent motion
of platform 12 relative to arm 130. Friction material 138 may
include, without limitation, rubber, or neoprene. In another
embodiment, the surface of arm 130 may be roughened or treated to
provide a high coefficient of friction.
[0067] Referring now to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15-16, shown
is an additional manner of connecting the platform 12 to an
armchair or other piece of furniture using at least one ball and
socket connection device 200 (200'). Such a ball and socket
connection device 200 (200') including a ball 202 (224, 226)
dimensioned to fit within a socket 204 (204') defined by a sheath
206 (207).
[0068] In this embodiment of the invention (for example, FIG. 16),
a configuration containing two balls 202, 224 configured to be held
in two separate sockets 204, 204' defined within the same sheath
206 is utilized. Preferably, the connection of each of the balls
202, 224 within the sockets 204, 204' is "sticky," meaning that a
sufficient frictional force exists (or is provided) between the
balls 202, 224 and their respective sockets 204, 204' so as to
allow the position of a device or structure attached to a ball 202,
224 to remain set in a desired position, while still allowing
movement of this ball 202, 224 within the socket when a preselected
quantity of additional force is placed upon the ball 202, 224. This
concept described infra with respect to the "rotational control
device." Utilization of such a rotational control device allows
significantly greater ranges of movement and variation among
positions in which the various portions of the device can be
arranged.
[0069] In addition, the friction holding the balls 202 (224, 226)
within the sockets 204 (204') can be adjusted by a tensioning
device 208 (209), such as the threaded bolt embodiments shown in
FIGS. 15-16. In such an embodiment, the sleeves (206, 207) comprise
a pair of opposing halves that the tensioning device 208 (209) can
more loosely or more tightly hold together, thereby changing the
amount of friction the sockets (204, 204') exert on the balls (202,
224, 226).
[0070] The exact configuration of the various ball and socket
connection devices which are set forth in the present invention are
specific in form and are dependent in large part upon the needs and
necessities of the user of a particular embodiment.
[0071] In the embodiments of the invention shown in FIGS. 15-16,
the ball 202 (202') of the connection device is connected to an
attachment body or plate 210 (210') that is connected or configured
for connection with any of the other portions of another device.
For instance, the ball 202 connects to the plate 210 through use of
a bar 201, the plate 210 then connecting to the underside of the
platform 12 through use of plate connecting features 212; and the
ball 202' connects to the plate 210' through use of a bar 201', the
plate 210' then connecting to the side of a chair arm 24 through
use of plate connecting features 212. These plate connecting
features allow these plates to be connected to any of a variety of
surfaces through any of a variety of connection devices. These
devices include but are not limited to devices such as screws,
bolts, molds, rivets, nails, fasteners, tapes, hook-and-loop
attachments, adhesives and any other device that accomplishes the
purpose of connecting a plate to another object. The figures also
show first end 264, second end 266, first joint 270, second joint
272, third joint 274, fourth joint 276 and intermediate joint 278.
In the figures, the "intermediate" joint is made of the third and
fourth joints.
[0072] While various embodiments having two sockets are shown and
described, it is to be distinctly understood that the number of
sockets or combinations of sockets is not limited by this
disclosure and description. In fact, combinations having three or
more sockets and sheath combinations are included and contemplated
within the scope of this invention and disclosure.
[0073] Referring now to FIGS. 17-18, shown is another embodiment of
a connection platform 250. This form of platform 250 having a base
251 with a pair of balls (252, 256) extending there-from through
use of bars/arms (254, 258). By utilizing a pair of balls (252,
256), multiple trays may extend from the same chair arm (or other
structure), for instance a first tray for supporting a first end of
a keyboard and a second tray for providing a surface upon which a
mouse or other input device is used.
[0074] It is preferred that platform 250 attach to the chair arm 24
(or other surface) in a rotational manner, such as through use of a
screw (as shown in FIGS. 17-18). Other rotational connection
manners/fasteners are likewise possible. One benefit of a
rotational attachment is that the platform(s) attached thereto can
be swung (rotated) out of the way easily, for instance when a user
desires to get up from his/her chair.
[0075] While this embodiment shows use of two balls on the
rotational attachment, it is expressly envisioned that rotational
attachment could be utilized not only with single (or multiple)
ball platforms, but also with non-ball embodiments of the present
invention.
[0076] In other embodiments of the invention, the configuration of
the plate which is connected to the ball(s) may be modified for
other uses. One of these configurations is shown in FIGS. 19-20.
FIGS. 19-20 shows an embodiment wherein an armchair, desk, table,
or other piece of furniture defines a receiver 216 that is
configured to receive a generally elongated extension arm 218. The
receiver 216 is preferably a slot or hole defined within the piece
of furniture, such as a chair arm 24.
[0077] This extension arm 218 is connected to a ball 203 which is
configured to connection with a socket 244, defined by a sleeve
234. As has been discussed previously, the exact configuration of
the ball 203 and the socket 244 can be varied according to the
needs and necessities of the user. The figures also showing first
joint 280, first end 282, second end 284 and second joint 286.
[0078] Some embodiments of the present invention show the
sheath/sleeve to be a part of, or directly connected to, any
desired attachment device including platforms that contain other
forms of flexible attachment devices. In some instances, additional
flexibility and ease of use is provided by connecting extension
arms of various lengths with various ball and socket connecting
devices.
[0079] In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 19-20, the
platform of the present invention (which was previously shown in
FIG. 12) is combined with elements of the ball and socket
combination which is described herein. In this combination (FIGS.
19-20), a sleeve 234 has a first portion that defines a socket 244
that is configured for connection to a ball 203. The second
(opposite) end of the sleeve 234 is configured to connect, via a
pin 236 or suitable structure, to a platform arm 130 at a flange
240, thereby forming a pivot joint. This connection with the flange
240 allowing the platform and arm 130 attached thereto to pivot
within a first plane, whereas the ball-socket attachment at the
first end allows the combination to be pivoted among many planes,
including but not limited to up/down and left/right. The
combination of this first plane and multi-plane positioning is that
the platform can easily be positioned as desired by the user.
[0080] In these figures, while only a single ball and socket
combination is utilized, it will be distinctly understood that the
invention may be variously combined to include a variety of other
features as well.
[0081] Benefits of using one or more ball and socket connections in
such an embodiment include the ability to be positioned in a great
number of different positions in a number of different planes.
Doing so allows a user maximum flexibility in the positioning of
the platform.
[0082] The exemplary embodiments shown in the figures and described
above illustrate but do not limit the invention. It should be
understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to the
specific form disclosed; rather, the invention is to cover all
modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling
within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the
claims. For example, while the exemplary embodiments illustrate
adjustable work surfaces, the invention is not limited to use with
adjustable work surfaces and may be used with other platforms.
While the invention is not limited to use with adjustable work
surfaces, it is expected that various embodiments of the invention
will be particularly useful in such devices. Hence, the foregoing
description should not be construed to limit the scope of the
invention, which is defined in the following claims.
[0083] While there is shown and described the present preferred
embodiment of the invention, it is to be distinctly understood that
this invention is not limited thereto, but may be variously
embodied to practice within the scope of the following claims. From
the foregoing description, it will be apparent that various changes
may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention as defined by the following claims.
* * * * *