U.S. patent application number 12/732956 was filed with the patent office on 2010-09-30 for folding support stand for portable electronic devices.
This patent application is currently assigned to INNOVATIVE OFFICE PRODUCTS, INC.. Invention is credited to Bradley A. Derry.
Application Number | 20100243850 12/732956 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39620261 |
Filed Date | 2010-09-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100243850 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Derry; Bradley A. |
September 30, 2010 |
FOLDING SUPPORT STAND FOR PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Abstract
The present invention provides a portable support stand for
various devices such as laptop computers, tablet PCs and other
electronic equipment. The stand has a tripod configuration which
promotes stability of the user device. The front legs of the tripod
may be adjusted between compact and extended positions, and may be
placed in a position relative to the rear leg anywhere from
0.degree. in a fully closed position to approximately 180.degree.
in a fully open position. Audible indicators are used with overall
stand adjustment and with adjustment of stoppers at the ends of the
front legs. Adjustment of the front legs relative to the rear leg
employs a pivot section, including a finger disc spring, an
adjustment actuator and an engagement member between the spring and
the actuator. The engagement member includes projections or dimples
which engage receptacles on an engagement member to secure the
stand in a desired arrangement.
Inventors: |
Derry; Bradley A.; (Emmaus,
PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DESIGN IP, P.C.
5100 W. TILGHMAN STREET, SUITE 205
ALLENTOWN
PA
18104
US
|
Assignee: |
INNOVATIVE OFFICE PRODUCTS,
INC.
Easton
PA
|
Family ID: |
39620261 |
Appl. No.: |
12/732956 |
Filed: |
March 26, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11789692 |
Apr 25, 2007 |
7712719 |
|
|
12732956 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
248/372.1 ;
248/398; 340/540 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16M 11/38 20130101;
F16M 11/26 20130101; F16M 13/00 20130101; F16M 11/10 20130101; A47B
2023/049 20130101; F16M 2200/024 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
248/372.1 ;
248/398; 340/540 |
International
Class: |
F16M 11/38 20060101
F16M011/38; G08B 21/18 20060101 G08B021/18 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. (canceled)
3. (canceled)
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. (canceled)
8. (canceled)
9. (canceled)
10. (canceled)
11. (canceled)
12. (canceled)
13. (canceled)
14. (canceled)
15. (canceled)
16. (canceled)
17. (canceled)
18. (canceled)
19. (canceled)
20. (canceled)
21. A pivot mechanism for connecting two or more members together
comprising: a first engagement member having at least two
connectors spaced from the perimeter thereof, with a first
connector corresponding to a first position and a second connector
corresponding to a second position; a second engagement member
having at least one connector for mating with either the first
connector or the second connector of the first engagement member; a
spring coupled to the first and second engagement members for
normally biasing the second engagement member into association with
the first engagement member; and an actuator for depressing the
spring to disengage the at least one connector of the second
engagement member from the connectors of the first engagement
member in order to allow the first engagement member to move
relative to the second engagement member from at least the first
position to the second position and back, wherein when the actuator
is depressed, the first engagement member is disengaged from the
second engagement member, and when the actuator is released, the
spring acts to bias the second engagement member toward the first
engagement member to couple the first and second engagement members
together.
22. The pivot mechanism of claim 1, wherein the at least two
connectors of the first engagement member are openings defined
therein and the at least one connector of the second engagement
member is a projection.
23. The pivot mechanism of claim 2, wherein the first engagement
member is substantially circular and the second engagement member
is substantially circular, and the at least two openings in the
first engagement member comprise a plurality of openings spaced
around the center of the first engagement member; and the second
engagement member has two projections for mating with a subset of
the openings defined in the first engagement member.
24. The pivot mechanism of claim 1, wherein the spring is a finger
spring washer.
25. The pivot mechanism of claim 1, wherein the spring is
positioned adjacent the second engagement member and is not in
contact with the first engagement member.
26. The pivot mechanism of claim 1, wherein the actuator includes a
projection for engaging the second engagement member to depress the
spring.
27. The pivot mechanism of claim 6, wherein the first engagement
member includes at least one elongated opening extending
therethrough and the actuator includes a projection for extending
through the at least one elongated opening and for contacting the
second engagement member.
28. The pivot mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a first
member having two arms that define a channel therebetween and a
second member configured to seat in the channel, with one of the
arms of the first member defining a recess for the first engagement
member and the actuator, and the second member defining a recess
for accepting the second engagement member and the spring, wherein
the first member and the second member align along a center line of
axial rotation.
29. The pivot mechanism of claim 8, further comprising a cap for
seating on an exterior surface of the one of the arms of the first
member on a side that is opposite the actuator, said cap being
fixedly coupled to the arm.
30. The pivot mechanism of claim 8, wherein the actuator includes a
centrally disposed boss and the actuator, first engagement member,
second engagement member, spring, and second member are axially
coupled together with a fastener that extends therethrough and
engages the boss.
31. The pivot mechanism of claim 8, wherein the first engagement
member is integrally defined within one of the arms of the first
member.
32. A pivot mechanism defining a central pivoting axis comprising:
a first engagement member axially aligned with the central pivoting
axis; a second engagement member axially aligned with the central
pivoting axis and configured to lockingly couple to the first
engagement member when in a first position and to disengage from
the first engagement member when in a second position; and a finger
spring coupled to the first and second engagement members, wherein
when the spring is depressed, the second engagement member is
disengaged from the first engagement member to allow movement from
the first position to the second position; and a housing for
holding the first engagement member, the second engagement member,
and the finger spring, wherein the housing has a first part and a
second part that are rotatable relative to one another about the
central pivoting axis.
33. The pivot mechanism of claim 12, wherein the first engagement
member is coupled to the first part of the housing and the second
engagement member and spring are coupled to the second part of the
housing.
34. The pivot mechanism of claim 12, wherein the first engagement
member is integral with the first part of the housing and the
second engagement member and spring seat in a recess defined in the
second part of the housing.
35. The pivot mechanism of claim 12, wherein the second engagement
member is rotatable relative to the first engagement member, and
the finger spring normally biases the second engagement member into
engagement with the first engagement member.
36. The pivot mechanism of claim 12, further comprising an actuator
coupled thereto for moving the second engagement member out of
engagement with the first engagement member.
37. The pivot mechanism of claim 16, wherein the actuator is
positioned adjacent the first engagement member, the second
engagement member is positioned adjacent the first engagement
member, and the spring is positioned adjacent the second engagement
member.
38. The pivot mechanism of claim 12, wherein the first engagement
member includes at least one recess defined therethrough and the
actuator includes at least one ridge sized to extend through the at
least one recess defined in the first engagement member to contact
the second engagement member.
39. An adjustment member for coupling a first leg of a device to a
second leg of a device comprising: a first engagement member
coupled to the first leg, the first engagement member having a
first surface including a plurality of first connection members
distributed about a central rotation point; a pivot device
associated with the second leg including a first section adjustably
coupled to the first engagement member; a second engagement member
including at least one connection member operable to releasably
engage at least one of the first connection members of the first
engagement member; a spring device substantially disposed between
the pivot device and the second engagement member; and an
adjustment actuator coupled to the second engagement member,
wherein when the adjustment actuator is in a first state the at
least one connection member of the second engagement member is
securely coupled to at least one of the first connection members of
the first engagement member, and when the adjustment actuator is in
a second state the at least connection member of the second
engagement member is decoupled from the at least one first
connection member so that the second leg is moveable between a
closed position and an open position, wherein the spring device is
adapted to bias the adjustment actuator in the first state.
40. The adjustment member of claim 19, wherein the second leg is
coupled to at least two adjustable support legs.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/789,692, filed Apr. 25, 2007.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a device for use in
supporting and displaying electronic devices. More particularly,
the present invention is particularly adapted for use as a portable
support stand for use with laptop computers, tablet computers and
other portable computing and entertainment devices and the
like.
[0003] Laptop computers, tablet PCs and similar portable devices
are often used in home and office environments, at tradeshows,
offsite meetings, etc., and may be placed on a desk, table or other
surface and used as a stand alone device or in conjunction with a
docking station. Unfortunately, conveniences in size and
portability may not be matched by proper ergonomics or convenience
in the placement of such devices. For instance, when using a
laptop, the keyboard should be positioned a comfortable distance
from the user to avoid wrist, back and/or neck strain, but the
display should be positioned at an appropriate distance and angle
to avoid eye strain. These requirements may conflict, causing the
user to choose between undesirable alternatives.
[0004] Therefore, it is desirable to provide solutions to
ergonomics and other problems. For instance, it is possible to
provide a support device for use with the laptop computer or other
portable electronic device itself. The support device may take the
form of an extension arm adapted for handling laptop computers. An
example of an extension arm and supporting device for use with
laptop computers is shown and described in U.S. Patent Publication
No. 2004/0007651, entitled "Universal Support for Electronic
Devices," the entire disclosure of which is fully incorporated by
reference herein.
[0005] Another example of supporting apparatus for laptops and
other portable electronic devices may be found in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/508,367, filed on Aug. 23, 2006 and
entitled "Laptop Holder for Extension Arm," the entire disclosure
of which is fully incorporated by reference herein. Yet another
example of a laptop holder may be found in U.S. Design patent
application Ser. No. 29/261,219, filed on Jun. 9, 2006 and entitled
"Laptop Holder," the entire disclosure of which is fully
incorporated by reference herein.
[0006] While such laptop extension arms and laptop holders are
suitable for supporting laptop computers and the like, a need
exists for support stands that can efficiently and stably support
the user's device and while also being compact and easily
portable.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a
portable support stand for supporting an electronic device is
provided. The stand comprises a first support leg, an adjustment
member and a pair of adjustable support legs. The first support leg
has an elongated body and a pivot member. The elongated body
includes a first end for contacting a support surface and a second
end remote from the first end. The pivot member is disposed
adjacent the second end of the elongated body. The adjustment
member is rotatably coupled to the pivot member of the first
support leg. The pair of adjustable support legs each has a
respective first leg member and a respective second leg member
slideably attached to the respective first leg member thereof. Each
first leg member has a first end pivotally coupled to the
adjustment member, a second end remote from the first end and a
receptacle disposed between the first and second ends. Each second
leg member has first and second ends thereof. The second leg
members is operable to move between a compact position in which the
respective second leg member is substantially received within the
receptacle of the respective first leg, as shown in FIGS. 15A-15E,
and an extended position in which the second leg member is
substantially removed from the receptacle of the respective first
leg member, as shown in FIGS. 16A-16E. Furthermore, the pair of
adjustable support legs is operable to jointly rotate between a
closed position adjacent to the first support leg, as shown in
FIGS. 4A-4H, and an open position with the second ends of the first
and second leg members spaced apart from the first end of the first
support leg, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3H.
[0008] In one alternative, the portable support stand further
comprises a pair of stopper members that each has first and second
ends. The first end of each stopper member is coupled to the second
end of a respective one of the second leg members. Each stopper
member is operable to move between a closed position with the
second end of the stopper member adjacent the second end of the
respective second leg member, as seen in FIGS. 15A-15B, and an open
position with the second end of the stopper member not adjacent the
second end of the respective second leg member, as seen in FIGS.
16A-16B.
[0009] In an example, the stopper members are rotatably coupled to
the second ends of the respective second leg members, and the open
position is substantially perpendicular to the closed position. In
another example, the stopper members and the adjustment member each
include a point of contact for supporting the electronic device at
three points. In a further example, each stopper member includes
means for producing an audible indicator to identify that the
respective stopper member is in the open or closed position.
[0010] In another alternative, the pivot member includes a first
engagement member and the adjustment member includes a second
engagement member adjustably coupled to the first engagement member
to lock the adjustable support legs in the closed position and in
the open position, and to permit movement of the adjustable support
legs between the closed and open positions. In one example, the
first engagement member includes a plurality of connectors and the
second engagement member includes at least one connection member
operable to couple with a first one of the plurality of connectors
in the closed position and with a second one of the plurality of
connectors in the open position. In another example, the support
stand further comprises a spring device disposed between the first
and second engagement members.
[0011] In a further alternative, each of the adjustable support
legs includes means for producing an audible indicator to identify
when the respective adjustable support leg is in the compact or
extended position.
[0012] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, a portable support stand for supporting an electronic
device is provided. The stand comprises a first support leg, a pair
of adjustable support legs and an adjustment member. The first
support leg has an elongated body including a first end for
contacting a support surface and a second end remote from the first
end. The adjustment member rotatably couples the pair of adjustable
support legs to the second end of the first support leg. The
adjustment member includes a first engagement member, a pivot
device, a second engagement member, a spring device and an
adjustment actuator. The first engagement member is coupled to the
first support leg. The engagement member has a first surface
including plurality of first connection members distributed about a
central rotation point and at least one second connection member
disposed in the first surface. The pivot device includes a first
section adjustably coupled to the engagement member and a second
section adjustably coupled to both first leg members. The second
engagement member includes at least one connection member operable
to releasably engage at least one of the first connection members
of the first engagement member. The spring device is substantially
disposed between the pivot device and the second engagement device.
The adjustment actuator is coupled to the second engagement device.
In operation, when the adjustment actuator is in a first state, the
at least one connection member of the second engagement member is
securely coupled to at least one of the first connection members of
the first engagement member. And when the adjustment actuator is in
a second state, the at least connection member of the second
engagement member is decoupled from the at least one first
connection member so that the pair of adjustable support legs is
moveable between a closed position adjacent to the first support
leg and an open position with the second ends of the first and
second leg members spaced apart from the first end of the first
support leg.
[0013] In one alternative, the pair of adjustable support legs each
includes a first leg member and a second leg member slideably
coupled to the respective first leg member thereof. The first
support leg preferably has a fixed length.
[0014] In another alternative, the plurality of first connection
members is desirably distributed in a circular arrangement about
the central rotation point. In this case, the plurality of first
connection members are most preferably receptacles, and the at
least one connection member comprises at least one projection
operable to releasably engage at least one respective connection
members.
[0015] In a further alternative, the portable support stand
additionally comprising at least one magnet received in the first
support leg for magnetically securing the pair of adjustable
support legs to the first support leg in the closed position.
[0016] In yet another alternative, the portable support stand
further comprises a pair of stopper members. Here, a first one of
the stopper members is coupled to a first one of the adjustable
support legs and a second one of the stopper members is coupled to
a second one of the adjustable support legs. The pair of stopper
members is moveable between a compact position when the support
stand is in the closed position and an extended position when the
support stand is in the open position.
[0017] In one example, the electronic device is operable to rest on
the support stand at three points when the support stand is in the
open position. Here, the pair of stopper members each provides a
first point of contact for the electronic device and the first
support leg provides a second point of contact for the electronic
device in a tripod arrangement.
[0018] In another example, when the stand is in the open position
it has a double tripod configuration for supporting the electronic
device and for contacting the support surface. Most preferably, in
the double tripod configuration the first end of the first support
leg provides a first point of contact with the support surface and
the pair of stopper members each providing separate second points
of contact with the support surface. And the second end of the
first support leg providing a first point of contact for the user
device and the pair of stopper members each provide separate second
points of contact for the user device.
[0019] In accordance with a further embodiment of the present
invention, a portable support stand for use with an electronic
device comprises a first support leg, a pair of adjustable support
leg and an adjusting means. The first support leg has an elongated
body including a first end for contacting a support surface and a
second end remote from the first end. The pair of adjustable
support legs each has a first leg member and a second leg member
slideably attached to the respective first leg member thereof. The
adjusting means is for adjusting a position of the pair of
adjustable support legs relative to the first support leg so that
the portable support stand is configured in either a closed
position or an open position. Furthermore, in the open position the
support stand has a double tripod configuration for supporting the
electronic device and for contacting the support surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The present invention will hereinafter be described in
conjunction with the appended drawing figures wherein like numerals
denote like elements.
[0021] FIGS. 1A-1F illustrate a stand device supporting a laptop
computer in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0022] FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate the stand device of FIGS. 1A-1F
supporting a tablet PC in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0023] FIGS. 3A-3H illustrate a portable stand in accordance with
aspects of the present invention.
[0024] FIGS. 4A-4H illustrate the portable stand of FIGS. 3A-3F in
a compact configuration in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0025] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of the portable stand of
FIGS. 3A-3F in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0026] FIGS. 6A-6H illustrate a first section of the portable stand
of FIG. 5 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0027] FIGS. 7A-7H illustrate a second section of the portable
stand of FIG. 5 in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0028] FIGS. 8A-8H illustrate a grip member of the stand of FIG. 5
in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0029] FIGS. 9A-9H illustrate a portion of a front leg of the stand
in FIG. 5 in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0030] FIGS. 10A-10H illustrate a second portion of the front leg
of the stand in FIG. 5 in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0031] FIGS. 11A-11P illustrate a third portion of the front leg of
the stand in FIG. 5 in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0032] FIGS. 12A-12P illustrate a fourth portion of the front leg
of the stand in FIG. 5 in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0033] FIGS. 13A-13H illustrate a stopper for use with the front
legs of the stand in accordance with aspects of the present
invention.
[0034] FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate a lower leg assembly in accordance
with aspects of the present invention.
[0035] FIGS. 15A-15E illustrate a front leg assembly in a compact
position in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0036] FIGS. 16A-16E illustrate the front leg assembly of FIGS.
15A-15E in an extended position in accordance with aspects of the
present invention.
[0037] FIGS. 17A-17H illustrate a portion of a pivot device in
accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0038] FIGS. 18A-18H illustrate a spring device in accordance with
aspects of the present invention.
[0039] FIGS. 19A-19H illustrate an engagement member in accordance
with aspects of the present invention.
[0040] FIGS. 20A-20H illustrate an actuator in accordance with
aspects of the present invention.
[0041] FIGS. 21A-21H illustrate a cover in accordance with aspects
of the present invention.
[0042] FIGS. 22A-22C illustrate stand assembly in accordance with
aspects of the present invention.
[0043] FIGS. 23A-23G illustrate exemplary compact positioning of a
stand in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
[0044] FIGS. 24A-24G illustrate exemplary extended positioning of a
stand in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0045] The aspects, features and advantages of the present
invention will be appreciated when considered with reference to the
following description of preferred embodiments and accompanying
figures. In describing the preferred embodiments of the invention
illustrated in the figures, specific terminology will be used for
the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be
limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be
understood that each term selected includes all technical
equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a
similar purpose.
[0046] As mentioned above, the present invention provides a
portable support platform or stand that is suitable for use with
laptop computers, tablet computers and other portable equipment.
FIGS. 1A-1F illustrate a laptop computer 10 that is supported by a
stand 100. FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate the stand 100 supporting a tablet
style personal computer ("tablet PC") 20. As can be seen in the
various views of FIGS. 1 and 2, the stand 100 has a tripod-type
configuration, which, as will be explained in more detail below,
may be placed on many different surfaces in a wide variety of
orientations and positions. This gives the user supreme flexibility
in placing his or her laptop computer, tablet PC or other device in
the exact arrangement desired. While the laptop computer 10 and
tablet PC 20 are exemplary, the stand 100 may support portable
devices of many different types and configurations, including but
not limited to PDAs, personal stereos, pictures, etc.
[0047] FIGS. 3A-3H illustrate the stand 100 in detail. As seen in
the front and rear perspective views of FIGS. 3A and 3B, the stand
100 includes a pair of front legs 102 and 104 that are coupled to a
rear leg 106. The front legs 102 and 104 are preferably adjustable
to varying lengths, which enables the stand 100 to accommodate
devices of varying sizes and shapes. Furthermore, the front legs
102 and 104 may be adjusted independently of one another, which is
particularly helpful when positioning the laptop or tablet PC on an
uneven surface.
[0048] As shown in the views of FIGS. 3A-3H, the front legs 102 and
104 preferably include a pair of stoppers 108a,b. The stoppers
108a,b help support the user device and prevent it from slipping
off of the legs 102 and 104. Preferably, the legs 102 and 104 have
a bowed or curved upper surface. In this case, the laptop 10,
tablet PC 20 or other portable device will rest on the stand at
three points, namely points A, B and C as shown in FIG. 3A and FIG.
1E. In addition to the overall open architecture, this bowed/curved
tripod-type configuration promotes air circulation and cooling for
the user device. Furthermore, by contacting the stand 100 at only
three locations, this gives additional stability to the user
device. This may be especially important for table PC-type devices
or laptops where the user is writing on or typing on the device,
where a wobbly device is especially undesirable.
[0049] Also shown in these figures is a pivot section 110, which
enables the legs 102 and 104 to rotatably move relative to the leg
106 from the "open" configuration shown to a "closed" configuration
as illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4H. In the closed configuration, it can
be seen that the front legs 102 and 104 are placed in a compact
parallel orientation as opposed to the extended angled
configuration of FIGS. 3A-3H. Furthermore, the legs 102 and 104 may
be placed in parallel orientation with the leg 106 as well. Thus,
in this arrangement, the stand 100 is not only compact, but is
easily portable by the user. This makes the stand 100 very
beneficial for people who are on the go and need a portable stand
for their laptop or tablet PC which can be folded away when
traveling or when it is otherwise not being used.
[0050] It can be seen in FIGS. 3 and 4 that the legs are moveable
along two general paths or planes. In the first path, the front
legs 102 and 104 are moveable relative to the rear leg. In the
second path or plane, the front legs 102 and 104 are also moveable
relative to one another. Thus, the user may carry the stand 100 in
a compact configuration with all three legs together, and may then
open up the stand 100 so that the legs are positioned in a tripod
configuration.
[0051] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the stand 100 in order to
better illustrate various aspects of the stand. As seen in this
figure, the legs 102, 104 and 106, as well as the pivot section
110, may be formed from a number of discrete components. For
example, the rear leg 106 may comprise a main body portion 112 and
a pivot member 114. The pivot member 114 may be integrally formed
with the main body portion 112 or may be fabricated separately and
connected to the main body portion 112. The leg 106 may also
include one or both of a support member 116 and a grip member
118.
[0052] While not required, one or more magnets 119 may also be
incorporated into the rear leg 106. The magnet(s) 119 may be used
to help secure the leg 106 to the legs 102 and 104 when the stand
100 is in a closed or folded up (compact) arrangement. Preferably,
at least a portion of the legs 102 and 104 are metallic or
magnetic. Thus, when the stand 100 is closed, for example for
travel, the magnet 119 magnetically holds the legs 102 and 104 to
the leg 106. The magnet 119 need only be strong enough to hold the
legs together without making it difficult for the user to detach
the legs 102 and 104 from the leg 106. Furthermore, when the legs
are drawn together, they provide a pleasing sound, letting the user
know the legs are full closed together.
[0053] The legs 102 and 104 are preferably substantially mirror
images of one another and are configured for easy adjustment by the
user. For example, each leg 102 and 104 desirably includes an upper
leg portion 120 and an adjustable lower leg portion 122. The upper
leg portion 120 may include a cover section 124. The lower leg
portion 122 preferably includes a sliding member 126 and a slide
stopping member 128. The stoppers 108a,b are preferably coupled to
one or both of the sliding member 126 and to the slide stopping
member 128.
[0054] The pivot section 110 preferably includes a central pivot
130. The upper leg portions 120 are desirably adjustably coupled to
the central pivot 130 by an adjustment mechanism such as pivot pin
132. The pivot section 110 may also include an adjustment actuator
such as push button 134, an engagement member 136 and a spring
device 138. A fastener (not shown) and a cap 142 may also comprise
part of the pivot section 110.
[0055] Each of these components is illustrated in detail in the
accompanying figures. For instance, FIGS. 6A-6H illustrate the main
body portion 112 and pivot member 114 of the rear leg 106. As best
seen in the perspective view of FIG. 6A and the front view of FIG.
6D, the main body portion 112 may include a cavity 144 formed
generally by sidewalls 146a,b and rear wall 148. The cavity 144 may
include one or more receptacles 150 adapted to receive the magnets
119. The magnets 119 are preferably employed to secure the legs 102
and 104 to the leg 106 when the stand 100 is in the fully closed
position.
[0056] The pivot member 114 preferably includes an opening or
receptacle 152 adapted to receive fastener 154 (see FIG. 5). The
fastener 154 may be, for instance, a screw which may threadedly
engage the opening 152 and a threaded opening 156 in the support
member 116 (see FIGS. 7A and 7C) to secure the support member 116
to the main body portion 112 of the rear leg 106. The pivot member
114 also desirably includes a pair of "arms" or extensions 157,
which extend away from the main body portion 112 as shown in FIGS.
6C and 6D.
[0057] As best seen in FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6E, the pivot member 114
preferably also includes an engagement member 158. The engagement
member 158 is preferably attached to or integrated with one of the
extensions 157. As part of the pivot section 110, the engagement
member 158 permits adjustment of the legs 102 and 104 relative to
the rear leg 106, as will be described in more detail below. The
engagement member 158 is desirably circular in configuration, and
may include a central opening 160 and a series of openings 162
distributed around the central opening. One or more elongated
openings 163 may also be disposed along the engagement member 158
between the central opening 160 and the openings 162. The other one
of the extensions 157 preferably also includes a central opening
164 and an offset opening 165, as shown in FIG. 6F. The central
opening 164 should be aligned with the central opening 160.
[0058] FIGS. 7A-7H illustrate the support member 116 in detail. As
discussed above, the support member 116 preferably includes a
threaded opening 156 so that the support member 116 may be secured
to the main body portion 112 using a fastener. Other types of
fasteners or connectors may be employed in lieu of a threaded
screw. Alternatively, the support member 116 may be integrally
molded or otherwise fabricated with the main body portion 112 to
provide a unitary leg 106. A central support 159 may extend
longitudinally span the support member 116.
[0059] FIGS. 8A-8H illustrate the grip member 118 in various
orientations. The grip member 118 may be formed of rubber, plastic
or other slip-resistant material. The grip member 118 is preferably
attached to the end of the leg 106, for instance to the support
member 116, to the main body portion 112, or to both. The
configuration of the grip member 118 desirably includes a rounded
surface 166 for contacting the support surface such as a desktop,
although other configurations are possible. Alternatively, the
member 118 may be replaced with another member having a
non-gripping surface. This may be suitable for situations where it
is desirable to move or reposition the stand 100 on a support
surface.
[0060] In addition to the surface 166 of member 118, the other two
points of contact for the stand 100 on the support surface are
preferably the stoppers 108, as shown in the side view of FIG. 1E.
As with the member 118, the stoppers 108 may include a gripping
surface or a non-gripping surface. Preferably all three points of
contact have either a gripping surface or a non-gripping surface.
Thus, as seen in this figure, the stoppers 108 desirably provide
two of the three resting points for the laptop 10, tablet PC 20 or
other portable device, and also desirably provide two of the three
support points when the stand 100 contacts a support surface.
Furthermore, one end of the rear leg 106, such as at point A,
preferably provides the third resting point for the user device
with the other end of the rear leg 106, such as at surface 166,
preferably provides the third support point when the stand 100
rests on a support surface. Thus, it can be seen that the stand 100
preferably provides a "double tripod" configuration in which the
stand rests on three points when placed on a support surface and
also provides three points on which the user device rests. This
double tripod arrangement is maintained no matter what specific
placement is used to support the user device, as shown in the
examples of FIGS. 1-2 and 23-24.
[0061] The legs 102 and 104, as explained above, may include a
number of components, including an upper leg portion 120 and an
adjustable lower leg portion 122. The upper leg portion 120 is
illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9H, and the cover section 124 is
illustrated in FIGS. 10A-10H. As the legs 102 and 104 are
preferably substantially mirror images of one another, only the
right leg components are illustrated in these figures.
[0062] For instance, as seen in the perspective views of FIGS. 9A
and 9B, the upper leg portion 120 includes an elongated section 168
and a pivot section 170 adjacent thereto. The elongated section 168
preferably includes an opening 172 and a receptacle 174 that
receive the adjustable lower leg portion 122. Disposed on a side
wall of the elongated section 168 is a connection point 176 adapted
to receive a corresponding connection member 178 on the cover
section 124, which is shown in FIGS. 10A and 10D. While the
elongated section 168 and the cover section 124 are shown as being
separate components, it is possible to fabricate the upper leg
portion 120 as a single, integral component.
[0063] As shown in FIGS. 9A-9C and 9E, the pivot section includes a
receptacle 180, which is adapted to receive the pivot pin 132.
Thus, when the leg 102 or 104 is connected to the central pivot
130, the upper leg portion 120 is operable to pivot about the axis
of the pivot pin 132.
[0064] The lower leg portion 122, in particular the sliding member
126 and the slide stopping member 128, is illustrated in FIGS. 11
and 12. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A-11H, the sliding
member 126 preferably includes an elongated slot 182 along the body
of the sliding member, a pivot member 184 adjacent a first end of
the sliding member, and a recess 186 adjacent a second end of the
sliding member.
[0065] FIGS. 11I-11P illustrate an alternative embodiment of the
sliding member 126, namely sliding member 126'. The main
differences between sliding member 126' and sliding member 126 are
the addition of a generally arcuate receptacle 185 adjacent a boss
or pivot member 206, as well a notch or cutout 187 adjacent the
recess 186 at the second end of the sliding member.
[0066] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12A-12H, The slide stopping
member 128 preferably includes an elongated tab member 188 adapted
to fit the elongated slot 182 of the sliding member 126. An opening
190 is configured to receive the pivot member 184, and a tab member
192 is adapted to connect to the recess 186. The slide stopping
member 128 preferably also includes a receptacle 194 for use with
stopper 108.
[0067] FIGS. 12I-12P illustrate an alternative embodiment of the
stopping member 128, namely stopping member 128'. Here, the
stopping member 128' includes a spring member 195. The spring
member 195 is preferably disposed at the end of the slide stopping
member 128 opposite the end having the opening 190 and the
receptacle 194. More preferably, the spring member 195 is desirably
an extension of or adjacent to the tab member 192. A protrusion 208
and a spring member 210 are preferably also included as part of the
stopping member 128'.
[0068] The protrusion 208 and spring member 210 are used in
conjunction with the stopper, as will be described in more detail
below with regard to FIGS. 14A-14D. The spring member 195 is used
when sliding the lower leg portion 122' in and out of the upper leg
portion 120, as will be described in more detail below with regard
to FIGS. 15A-15E.
[0069] While the sliding member 126 or 126' and the slide stopping
member 128 or 128' are shown as being separate components, it is
possible to fabricate the lower leg portion 122 as a single,
integral component. Furthermore, while only right lower leg
components are shown, the left lower leg components are
substantially identical in configuration.
[0070] FIGS. 13A-H illustrate the stopper 108 for use with the
right leg including sliding member 126 and stopping member 128,
with the stopper 108 for use with the left leg being a mirror image
of the right. As best seen in the perspective view of FIG. 13A and
the rear view of FIG. 13D, the stopper 108 preferably includes a
gripping or friction surface 196 along leg 198, as well as a
through hole 200 and a protrusion 202 on pivot section 204.
[0071] The through hole 200 receives the pivot member 184 and may
be secured thereto by a fastener such as a threaded screw or bolt.
The protrusion 202 is received by the receptacle 194. The stopper
108 may be adjusted between a closed position, for instance when
the stand 100 is folded up, and an open position, for instance when
the stand 100 is ready for use. The range of motion of the leg 198
depends upon the track provided by the receptacle 194 for the
protrusion 202. Thus, the leg may be configured to range, for
example, along a 90.degree. path between the open and closed
positions. Other path ranges may be employed, by way of example
only between 45.degree. and 135.degree. Wider or narrower ranges
may also be employed.
[0072] An alternative embodiment of the lower leg portion and the
stopper is illustrated in FIGS. 14A-D, which illustrates sliding
member 126' and stopping member 128' as part of lower leg 122'. In
this embodiment, stopper 108' pivotally couples to lower leg 122'
so that an audible indicator is generated upon extension and
retraction of the stopper 108'. FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate
perspective views of the leg 102 or 104 in an extended
position.
[0073] FIG. 14C is an enlarged view of section A-A from FIG. 14A.
Here, it can be seen that the lower leg 122' preferably includes a
boss 206, a protrusion 208, and a spring member 210. As shown, the
spring member 210 is preferably attached at one end 212 to the
lower leg 122' but has a second end 214 free to flex as the stopper
108' moves.
[0074] As with the stopper 108, the stopper 108' may be coupled to
the lower leg 122' using a fastener such as a threaded screw or
bolt 216. FIG. 14D is an enlarged view of the stopper 108, showing
the pivot section 204 having through hole 200, a first receptacle
218 and a second receptacle 220. When the stopper 108' is coupled
to the lower leg 122', the first receptacle receives the protrusion
208, and the second end 214 of the spring member 210 is received by
the second receptacle 220.
[0075] FIG. 14D illustrates that the second receptacle preferably
includes a raised member such as ramp 222. Thus, as the stopper
108' is adjusted between the open and closed positions, the second
end 214 of the spring member 210 passes across the ramp 222. While
passing over the ramp 222, the second end 214 is preferably
compressed. And after passing beyond the ramp 222, the second end
214 preferably snaps into back into an uncompressed state, which
desirably creates a clicking or other sound. This audible indicator
lets the user know that the stopper 108' is now in the fully
extended or fully closed position.
[0076] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate details of the legs 102 and 104
when in the closed and open positions, respectively. As seen in the
closed views of FIGS. 15A-15C, the lower leg portion 122' (or 122)
is retracted within the upper leg portion 120, specifically within
the cavity 144. FIG. 15D illustrates a cutaway of the leg 102 or
104 taken along the 15A-15A line of FIG. 15C. As can be seen in
this view, the lower leg portion 122 preferably includes a groove
224, and the cover section 124 preferably includes a stopping
member 226.
[0077] FIG. 15E is an enlarged view taken about the 15B-15B section
of FIG. 15D. Here, the spring member 195 of the lower leg portion
122' is shown adjacent to a projection 228 that is preferably
molded into the upper leg portion 120. The projection 228 desirably
abuts the spring member 195 and prevents removal of the lower leg
portion 122 from the upper leg portion 120, unless sufficient force
is applied to bend the spring member 195 to clear the projection
228. Once a sufficient amount of force is applied, for example by
pulling on an exposed section of the lower leg portion 122, the
lower leg portion may be partly or fully extended. While only one
projection 228 is illustrated, any number of projections 228 may be
employed to permit graduated extension of the lower leg portion
122.
[0078] FIGS. 16A-16E illustrate the leg 102 or 104 in the fully
open position. FIG. 16D illustrates a cutaway of the leg 102 or 104
taken along the 16A-16A line of FIG. 16C, and FIG. 16E is an
enlarged view taken about the 16B-16B section of FIG. 16D. As best
seen in FIG. 16E, the stopping member 226 prevents further
extension of the lower leg portion 122. Also, the upper leg portion
preferably also includes another projection, namely projection 230.
As the lower leg portion 122 is extended, the spring member 195 is
deflected during its pass across the projection 230. Once it
reaches full extension, the spring member 195 clears the projection
230, creating an audible indicator such as a clicking sound. This
sound, as with the audible indicator created by interaction of the
stopper 108' and the spring member 210 as discussed above. Thus,
these two separate audible indicators let the user know that the
lower leg portions 122 are fully extended and the stoppers 108' are
also fully extended.
[0079] A discussion of various components and assembly of the pivot
section 110 will now be presented with regard to FIGS. 17-22. As
explained above, the pivot section 110 preferably includes a pivot
device such as central pivot 130, which is illustrated in FIGS.
17A-17H. The perspective views of FIGS. 17A and 17B show that the
central pivot 130 includes two main sections, namely a leg
connection section 232 and a pivot member 234.
[0080] The leg connection section 232 preferably includes a pair of
projections 236 each having a receptacle 238 therein adapted to
receive the pivot pin 132. The pivot sections 170 of the upper leg
portions 120 of the legs 102 and 104 are secured between the
projections 236 and are permitted to pivot about the axis of the
pivot pin 132.
[0081] The pivot member 234 is preferably circular from an
aesthetic viewpoint and to reduce the amount of material required
during manufacturing. The pivot member 234 includes a receptacle
240 having a central opening 242. As seen in FIGS. 17A and 17F, the
receptacle 240 may also include an annular protrusion 244 and one
or more holders 246.
[0082] FIGS. 18A-18H illustrate the spring device 138, which
includes a circular central portion 248 that is adapted to fit
about the annular protrusion 244. The spring device 138, which
desirably has a finger disc spring configuration, preferably also
includes one or more projections 250 that may be spaced around the
central portion 248. Each projection 250 preferably includes a pair
of extensions 252 angled away from the plane of the central portion
248.
[0083] FIGS. 19A-19H illustrate the engagement member 136, which
may have a washer-type configuration. As shown, the engagement
member 136 is generally circular in shape, and includes opening 254
therein. One or more projections 256 are preferably disposed along
one face of the engagement member 136. And one or more extensions
258 may project along the edge of the engagement member 136.
[0084] The adjustment actuator 134 is illustrated in FIGS. 20A-20H.
As shown, the adjustment actuator 134 has a generally circular
configuration having a first side 260 and a second side 262. The
first side 260, which is the side accessible to the user, desirably
has a generally rounded or concave surface, although other any
other shape is permissible. As seen in FIGS. 20G and 20H, the first
side 260 need not be symmetrical. The second side 262 preferably
includes a boss 264 and one or more elongated ridges 266, which are
adapted to fit within the elongated openings 163 of the engagement
member 158.
[0085] FIGS. 21A-H illustrate the cap 142. As shown, the cap 142
includes a first side 268 and a second side 270. The first side 268
may have an exterior surface of any shape, although it is
preferably generally convex as shown. The second side 270 desirably
has a receptacle section 272 and a projection 274.
[0086] Assembly of the pivot section 110 will be discussed with
regard to FIGS. 22A-22C. FIG. 22A is a side view of the stand 100
and FIG. 22B is an exploded view of the pivot section 110. Assembly
may be achieved as follows. First, the spring device 138 and
engagement member 136 are pressed into the receptacle 240 of the
pivot member 234. The extensions 252 of the projections 250
preferably face the engagement member 136. The extensions 258 of
the engagement member 136 fit in the holders 246 of the pivot
member 234. Once the spring device 138 and engagement member 136
are received by receptacle 240, then the pivot member 234 is fitted
between the extensions 157 of the pivot member 114. At this step,
the projections 256 engage respective openings 162 on the
engagement member 158.
[0087] The adjustment actuator 134 may now be fitted over the
engagement member 158, with the elongated ridges 266 fitting within
the elongated openings 163 of the engagement member 158. Then a
fastener such as a screw 276 is fitted through the openings 242 and
254 and is secured to boss 264 of the adjustment actuator 134. At
this point, the cap 142 may be fitted over the fastener 276, with
the receptacle section 272 covering the fastener and securing the
cap 142 to the fastener, while the projection 274 engages the
offset opening 165 of one of the extensions 157.
[0088] FIG. 22C is a cutaway view along the 22A-22A line of FIG.
22A. The cutaway view illustrates the relative positioning of the
components of the pivot section 110. In order to open and close the
stand's legs, the pivot section 110 may be operated as follows.
First, the user may press the adjustment actuator 134 in toward the
cap 142. This pushes on the engagement member 136, which cause
compression of the spring device 138. This results in disengagement
of the projections 256 from the openings 162 on the engagement
member 158. The user is now able to adjust the legs 102 and 104
relative to the rear leg 106. When the adjustment actuator 134 is
released, pressure from the spring device 138 forces the
projections 256 to press against the engagement member 158.
Aligning the projections 256 with respective openings 162 secures
the legs 102 and 104 in a fixed position relative to the leg
106.
[0089] Once assembled, the stand 100 may be used in a wide range of
positions and orientations. For instance, FIGS. 23A-23G illustrate
numerous positions when the legs 102 and 104 are in a compact
configuration. The displacement between the front legs 102 and 104
with respect to the rear leg 106 may range from a fully closed
position of 0.degree. to a minimally open position shown in FIG.
23A with the legs 102 and 104 being on the order of 150 or less
from the leg 106 to a substantially fully extended position shown
in FIG. 23G with the legs 102 and 104 being nearly
165.degree.-180.degree. from the leg 106. Any incremental range may
be provided between the minimally open position to the
substantially fully extended position. By way of example only,
increments of 1.degree., 2.degree., 3.degree., 4.degree.,
5.degree., 10.degree., 15.degree. or 20.degree. may be provided.
The specific incremental positions preferably directly correspond
with the spacing and placement of the series of openings 162 in the
engagement member 158.
[0090] FIGS. 24A-24G numerous positions when the legs 102 and 104
are in a fully extended configuration. As with the compact
arrangement, the displacement between the front legs 102 and 104
with respect to the rear leg 106 may range from a fully closed
position of 0.degree. to a minimally open position shown in FIG.
24A with the legs 102 and 104 being on the order of 15.degree. or
less from the leg 106 to a substantially fully extended position
shown in FIG. 24G with the legs 102 and 104 being on the order of
165.degree.-180.degree. from the leg 106.
[0091] Although the invention herein has been described with
reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that
these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and
applications of the present invention. For instance, the stand may
or may not include audible indicators, or may incorporate visual or
textural indicators in lieu of or in conjunction of the audible
indicators. Furthermore, the lower leg portions may be adjustable
only between the fully closed and fully opened positions, or may be
adjustable among any number of increments between fully closed and
fully opened. All features in any of the embodiments are usable
with all other embodiments presented herein. It is therefore to be
understood that numerous modifications may be made to the
illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention as defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *