U.S. patent application number 14/027958 was filed with the patent office on 2014-03-20 for portable workstation for exercise machine.
The applicant listed for this patent is Laurie McCabe. Invention is credited to Laurie McCabe.
Application Number | 20140076206 14/027958 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50273123 |
Filed Date | 2014-03-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140076206 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McCabe; Laurie |
March 20, 2014 |
Portable Workstation for Exercise Machine
Abstract
A portable workstation for an exercise machine is described, the
workstation comprising a desktop resting on a handlebar system of
an exercise machine. The desktop comprises two or more pairs of
support strap slots positioned over corresponding portions of the
handlebar system. Each pair of the support strap slots are
configured to receive a support strap which passes through each
pair of support strap slots and around the corresponding portions
of the handlebar system. The desktop comprises a support structure
coupled underneath the desktop, wherein the support structure
absorbs vibrations from the handlebar system and adjusts the height
and angle of the desktop relative to the handlebar system. The
portable workstation further comprises a pair of support brackets
positioned at the back of the desktop, wherein the support brackets
support a device above the desktop.
Inventors: |
McCabe; Laurie; (Virginia
Beach, VA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
McCabe; Laurie |
Virginia Beach |
VA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
50273123 |
Appl. No.: |
14/027958 |
Filed: |
September 16, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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61701586 |
Sep 14, 2012 |
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61749801 |
Jan 7, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
108/5 ; 108/42;
108/6 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 57/30 20130101;
A63B 2225/687 20130101; F16M 11/10 20130101; A47B 23/02 20130101;
A47B 2220/06 20130101; A47B 13/003 20130101; A63B 22/02 20130101;
F16M 13/022 20130101; A63B 22/0605 20130101; A47B 57/04 20130101;
F16M 11/046 20130101; A63B 2071/0658 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
108/5 ; 108/42;
108/6 |
International
Class: |
A47B 57/04 20060101
A47B057/04; A47B 57/30 20060101 A47B057/30; A47B 13/00 20060101
A47B013/00 |
Claims
1) A portable workstation for an exercise machine, comprising: a
desktop configured to rest of top of a handlebar system of an
exercise machine, the desktop comprising; a first pair of support
strap slots positioned over a first portion of the handlebar
system; a second pair of support strap slots positioned over a
second portion of the handlebar system; a first support strap
configured to pass through the first pair of support strap slots
and couple the first portion of the handlebar system to the
desktop; and a second support strap configured to pass through the
second pair of support strap slots and couple the second portion of
the handlebar system to the desktop.
2) The portable workstation of claim 1, wherein the desktop further
comprises a support structure coupled underneath the desktop, the
support structure configured to absorb vibrations from the
handlebar system when the exercise machine is in use, wherein the
support structure has a plurality of support strap slots positioned
under the top of the first pair of support strap slots and the
second pair of support strap slots.
3) The portable workstation of claim 2, wherein the support
structure comprises one or more inflatable membranes configured to
adjust the height and angle of the desktop relative to the
handlebar system.
4) The portable workstation of claim 2, wherein the support
structure comprises one or more removeable absorption layers
configured to adjust the height and angle of the desktop relative
to the handlebar system.
5) The portable workstation of claim 1, further comprising a first
support bracket configured to couple to the back of the portable
workstation, the first support bracket comprising: a vertical
brace; a horizontal top brace coupled to the vertical brace,
wherein the horizontal top brace is positioned on top of the
portable workstation; a horizontal bottom brace coupled to the
vertical brace, wherein the horizontal bottom brace is positioned
underneath the portable workstation, wherein a vertical distance
between the horizontal top brace and the horizontal bottom brace is
substantially similar to the height of the portable workstation;
and a support arm coupled to an upper portion of the vertical
brace, wherein the support arm is positioned above the surface of
the portable workstation.
6) The first support bracket of claim 5, wherein the support arm
has a frictioned surface to prevent a device resting on the support
arm from shifting.
7) The first support bracket of claim 5, wherein the support arm
comprises a support lip coupled to the support arm, the support lip
is configured to prevent a device from sliding off the support
arm.
8) The first support bracket of claim 5, further comprising a hinge
positioned between the vertical brace and the support arm, wherein
the hinge is configured to provide angular adjustments to the
support arm relative to the surface of the desktop.
9) The first support bracket of claim 5, wherein the vertical brace
is configured with a rail system whereby the horizontal top brace
and the horizontal bottom brace can vertically slide along the rail
system to accept portable workstations of different heights.
10) The first support bracket of claim 5, wherein the horizontal
top brace has a top locking screw, wherein the top locking screw
presses the horizontal top brace against the vertical brace to
prevent slippage, wherein the horizontal bottom brace has a bottom
locking screw, wherein the bottom locking screw presses the
horizontal bottom brace against the vertical brace to prevent
slippage.
11) The portable workstation of claim 5, further comprising a
second support bracket configured to couple to the back of the
portable workstation, wherein the first support bracket and the
second support bracket are configured to move along the rear edge
of the desktop at varying distances whereby a device may rest on
the surface of the first support bracket and the second support
bracket.
12) The portable workstation of claim 1, wherein the desktop
further comprises a collapsible hinge configured to couple a left
half of the desktop to a right half of the desktop, wherein the
collapsible hinge is configured so the desktop can fold in half
along the collapsible hinge.
13) The portable workstation of claim 12, further comprising: a
rail system having a left rail and a right rail, wherein the left
rail couples underneath the desktop and parallel to the hinge,
wherein the right rail couples underneath the desktop and parallel
to the hinge; and wherein the rail system is further configured to
receive a rail support bar positioned within the rail system.
14) The portable workstation of claim 1, further comprising a power
hub coupled to the desktop, wherein the power hub provides
electrical power to one or more devices.
15) The portable workstation of claim 1, wherein the desktop
further comprises: a hinge configured to couple a first half of the
desktop to a second half of the desktop, wherein the desktop folds
in half along the hinge; a rail system positioned underneath the
desktop and along the hinge; and and a rail support beam configured
to fit within the rail system, wherein the rail support beam
provides support to the desktop when weight is applied to the
desktop.
16) A portable workstation for an exercise machine, comprising: a
desktop configured to rest of top of a handlebar system of an
exercise machine, the desktop comprising; a plurality of pairs of
support strap slots positioned over a plurality of quadrants of the
handlebar system, wherein the plurality of pairs of support strap
slots are configured to receive a support strap which passes
through one of the plurality of pairs of support strap slots and
around one of the quadrants of the handlebar system, wherein the
support strap couples the desktop to the handlebar system; a
plurality of support leg slots configured to receive a plurality of
support legs; and a tabletop positioned over the desktop, wherein
the tabletop comprises a plurality of support legs coupled
underneath the tabletop, wherein the plurality of support legs are
configured to fit within the plurality of support leg slots.
17) The portable workstation of claim 16, wherein the desktop has a
plurality of support rods configured to fit within a groove on each
of the plurality support legs, wherein the plurality of support
rods maintain the tabletop in a fixed vertical position.
18) The portable workstation of claim 16, wherein the tabletop
further comprises: a kickstand configured to support media or a
device at an angled position, wherein the kickstand's angle is
adjustable by moving the kickstand across the surface of the
tabletop.
19) The portable workstation of claim 16, further comprising an
angled surface configured to couple to the desktop via a support
hinge, wherein the angled surface further comprises a pair of
angled support strap slots positioned over an angled handbar of the
exercise machine, the pair of angled support strap slots configured
to receive an angled support strap.
20) The portable workstation of claim 19, wherein the desktop
further comprises a desktop support structure coupled underneath
the desktop, the desktop support structure configured to absorb
vibrations from the handlebar system when the exercise machine is
in use, wherein the desktop the support structure comprises one or
more removeable absorption layers configured to adjust the height
and angle of the desktop relative to the handlebar system; and
wherein the angled surface further comprises an angled support
structure coupled behind the angled surface, the angled support
structure configured to absorb vibrations from the angled handlebar
when the exercise machine is in use, wherein the angled support
structure comprises one or more inflatable membranes configured to
adjust the position of the angled surface relative to the angled
handlebar.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/701,586 filed 14 Sep. 2012, and U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/749,801 filed 7 Jan. 2013.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A portable workstation for an exercise machine, comprising a
desktop configured to rest of top of a handlebar system of an
exercise machine. The desktop comprises a first pair of support
strap slots positioned over a first portion of the handlebar
system. The desktop further comprises a second pair of support
strap slots positioned over a second portion of the handlebar
system. The desktop further comprises a first support strap
configured to pass through the first pair of support strap slots
and couple the first portion of the handlebar system to the desktop
and a second support strap configured to pass through the second
pair of support strap slots and couple the second portion of the
handlebar system to the desktop.
[0003] In one embodiment, the portable workstation further
comprises a first support bracket configured to couple to the back
of the portable workstation. The first support bracket comprises a
vertical brace and a horizontal top brace coupled to the vertical
brace, wherein the horizontal top brace is positioned on top of the
portable workstation. The first support bracket further comprises a
horizontal bottom brace coupled to the vertical brace, wherein the
horizontal bottom brace is positioned underneath the portable
workstation, wherein a vertical distance between the horizontal top
brace and the horizontal bottom brace is substantially similar to
the height of the portable workstation. The first support bracket
further comprises a support arm coupled to an upper portion of the
vertical brace, wherein the support arm is positioned above the
surface of the portable workstation.
[0004] In one embodiment, the portable workstation further
comprises a support structure coupled underneath the desktop
wherein the support structure is configured to absorb vibrations
from the handlebar system when the exercise machine is in use. The
support structure has a plurality of support strap slots positioned
under the top of the first pair of support strap slots and the
second pair of support strap slots.
[0005] In another embodiment is a portable workstation for an
exercise machine, comprising a desktop configured to rest of top of
a handlebar system of an exercise machine. The desktop comprises a
plurality of pairs of support strap slots positioned over a
plurality of quadrants of the handlebar system, wherein the
plurality of pairs of support strap slots are configured to receive
a support strap which passes through one of the plurality of pairs
of support strap slots and around one of the quadrants of the
handlebar system, wherein the support strap couples the desktop to
the handlebar system. The desktop further comprises a plurality of
support leg slots configured to receive a plurality of support
legs.
[0006] The portable workstation further comprises a tabletop
positioned over the desktop, wherein the tabletop comprises a
plurality of support legs coupled underneath the tabletop, wherein
the plurality of support legs are configured to fit within the
plurality of support leg slots.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0007] When using an exercise machine, such as a treadmill, stair
climber, elliptical machine and others, it is beneficial if a user
can multi-task by reading a book, using a laptop/tablet, or
writing. Workspaces exist which allow a user to perform office
tasks while using an exercise machine. However, current workspaces
suffer from many limitations such as: cost, weight, limited
footprint, problems with excessive vibrations and complexity, and
the time required for installation. As such, a portable workspace
is described that overcomes the limitations of existing
devices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] In the following description, for the purposes of
explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to
provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will
be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present
invention may be practiced without some of these specific details.
For example, while various features are ascribed to particular
implementations, it should be appreciated that the features
described with respect to one implementation may be incorporated
with other implementations as well. By the same token, however, no
single feature or features of any described implementation should
be considered essential to the invention, as other implementations
of the invention may omit such features.
[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a treadmill with
handlebars.
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a portable
workstation having a desktop and a tabletop.
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates an overhead view of a portable
workstation having a desktop and a tabletop.
[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of a portable workstation
having a desktop and a tabletop.
[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of a portable workstation
having a desktop and a tabletop.
[0014] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a desktop
platform.
[0015] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a tabletop
platform.
[0016] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a portable
workstation having a desktop and a tabletop.
[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a portable
workstation having a desktop and a tabletop.
[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates an underneath view of a tabletop.
[0019] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of portable
workstation having support brackets.
[0020] FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of portable workstation
having support brackets.
[0021] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of portable
workstation having support brackets.
[0022] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of a stationary bike having a
handlebar system.
[0023] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a stationary bike having a
portable desk coupled to a handlebar section.
[0024] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a portable desk
configured for a stationary bike.
[0025] FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of a stationary bike having
an angled portable desk system.
[0026] FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of a stationary bike having
a linear portable desk system.
[0027] FIG. 19A illustrates a top view of a portable desk
configured for a stationary bike.
[0028] FIG. 19B illustrates a front view of a portable desk
configured for a stationary bike.
[0029] FIG. 19C illustrates a side view of a portable desk
configured for a stationary bike.
[0030] FIG. 20A illustrates a top view of a portable desk
configured for a stationary bike.
[0031] FIG. 20B illustrates a front view of a portable desk
configured for a stationary bike.
[0032] FIG. 20C illustrates a side view of a portable desk
configured for a stationary bike.
[0033] FIG. 21 illustrates an overhead view of a collapsible
portable workstation having collapsing a hinge.
[0034] FIG. 22 illustrates a front view of a collapsible portable
workstation having a collapsing hinge and a support beam.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0035] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a treadmill 100. In one
embodiment, the treadmill 100 comprises a walking surface 110, base
arms 120, treadmill controls 130, and handlebars 140. The base arms
120 support the treadmill's control panel and display 130 and the
handlebars 140. A user may hold onto or lean against the handlebars
140 while walking or running on the walking surface 110. In one
embodiment, a portable workstation (not shown) may affix to the
handlebars 140 as a means of providing a surface for a user to work
or read. In other words, a user may place a book, magazine, laptop,
or tablet on the portable desk. Throughout the specification, the
term "handlebars" refers to any type of arm, brace or bar of an
exercise machine whereby a user holds onto, leans against, or
receives support while using the exercise machine. The term
"handlebar system" refers to all of the handlebars of an exercise
machine. As such, a handlebar system may comprise one or more
handlebars.
[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a portable
workstation 200 having a desktop 201 and a tabletop 202. The
desktop 201 affixes to handlebars 210 of a treadmill via one or
more attachment means. The portable workstation 200 is compatible
with a variety of additional exercise devices with handlebars 210
such as an elliptical machine, a stair climber, and a stationary
bike to name a few.
[0037] In one embodiment, the desktop 201 has a series of strap
slots 209 for receiving support straps 207. In one embodiment, the
strap slots 209 are cutouts in the desktop's surface positioned
perpendicular to the front edge of the desktop 201. In one
embodiment, there are four sections of strap slots 209. Two
sections are placed towards the front and to the sides of the
desktop surface. Two more sections are placed in the back and to
the sides of the desktop surface as shown in FIG. 2. The strap
slots 209 are positioned above the handlebars 210 of a treadmill.
Multiple strap slots 209 may be used for each of the four sections
to provide coverage for varying distances between a pair of
handlebars 210 from different exercise machine types, models and
manufacturers. In one embodiment, the distance between each section
of the strap slots 209 may provide coverage for support arm
distances between 20 and 36 inches. In other words, the distance
between handlebars of a given exercise machine may vary
dramatically.
[0038] Additionally, the length and width of the strap slots 209
may vary as well as the lateral or longitudinal distance between
each strap slot 209. In one embodiment, the strap slots 209 may be
2.25'' long by 0.25'' wide. The longitudinal distance between each
strap slot 209 may be 1''. The lateral distance between the front
and back sections of strap slots 209 may be 4-5''. Additionally,
each of the four sections may have six adjacent strap slots 209.
One skilled in the art can appreciate that the exemplary dimensions
and quantities of the strap slots 209 are merely examples and
should not be construed as limiting. As such, other dimensions and
quantities may be used without deviating from the scope of the
invention.
[0039] In one embodiment, the desktop 201 is affixed to the
handlebars 210 of a treadmill via four support straps 207. Each
support strap 207 may be threaded through two adjacent strap slots
209 from each of the four strap slot sections. Each of the support
straps 207 thread through two adjacent strap slots 209 and on each
side of the accompanying handlebars 210 of a treadmill. Each end of
the support strap 207 is fastened to each other from underneath or
to the sides of the handlebars 210. Once the support straps 207 are
fastened, the desktop 201 is non-permanently coupled to the
handlebars 210 thus providing a stable desktop 201 for which a user
may interact. In one embodiment, the support straps 207 are made
from stretchable industrial strength cloth or fabric having
VELCRO.TM. on each end. Other materials (rubber, silicon, leather,
Para cord, wire, etc.) and connection means may be used without
deviating from the scope of the invention. In additional
embodiments, buckles, ratchets, or snaps may be used to affix each
end of a support strap 207 together.
[0040] In one embodiment, the desktop 201 may be wood, injection
molded plastic, aluminum, steel, or other materials. Further, the
desktop 201 may be solid or hollow. In one embodiment, the desktop
201 is 3/16'' thick, 36'' long and 12.5'' deep. However, other
thicknesses and dimensions may be used without deviating from the
scope of the invention. In one embodiment, the top and/or bottom
surfaces of the desktop 201 may be covered in a vibration dampening
material such as foam (closed or open celled), rubber, lead, or
silicon to name a few. The dampening material may be affixed to the
desktop surfaces via glue, contact cement, caulking or other
adhesives known by those skilled in the art. The thickness of the
dampening material may vary depending on the desired amount of
vibration dampening. Further, the coverage area of the dampening
material may vary. In one embodiment, the dampening material may
cover all surfaces of the desktop 201. In another embodiment, the
dampening material may cover the desktop's top and bottom surfaces
adjacent to the handlebars of the treadmill. One skilled in the art
can appreciate that varying levels of coverage may be used,
depending on desired amounts of vibration dampening.
[0041] In one embodiment, the tabletop 202 may couple to the
desktop 201 via one or more support legs 208. In one embodiment,
the tabletop 202 may be permanently coupled to the desktop 201. In
another embodiment, the tabletop 202 may be temporarily coupled to
the desktop 201 via one or more support slots (not shown)
configured to receive the support legs 208. In one embodiment the
height of the tabletop 202, relative to the desktop 201, may be
fixed. For example, the support legs 208 may lock into support
slots (not shown) via a latching mechanism. The tabletop 202 may
have varying lengths of support legs. A user could select which
support leg length they desire depending on the desired height of
the tabletop 202 relative to the desktop 201.
[0042] In one embodiment the support legs 208 may be vertically
adjusted to change the height of the tabletop 202 relative to the
desktop 201. Each of the support legs 208 may slide up and down
within a support slot (not shown.) An adjustment mechanism (not
shown) may be used to hold each of the support legs 208 in place. A
user may also adjust either the front or back support legs 208 to
change the angle of the tabletop 202 relative to the desktop 201.
For example, lowering the height of the front support legs 208 may
angle the tabletop 202 forward, while increasing the height of the
front support legs 208 may angle the tabletop 202 backward.
Additionally, the rear support legs 208, may be adjusted to further
manipulate the angle of the tabletop 202 relative to the desktop
201.
[0043] In another embodiment, an adjustable support ledge 204 may
be positioned on the front of the tabletop 202 to prevent a book,
laptop, tablet, etc. from sliding off the tabletop 202. For
example, the support ledge 204 may raise above the surface of the
desktop 101 to prevent a book or laptop from sliding off. When the
support ledge 204 is not in use, it may retract below or flush with
the surface of the tabletop 202. In one embodiment, ledge screws
206 may be tightened down to maintain the support ledge 204 at a
desired position. Other mechanisms may be used to hold the support
ledge 204 in place, such as VELCRO.TM., latches or brackets to name
a few.
[0044] In another embodiment, the tabletop 202 may have an
adjustable kickstand 205 configured for holding a book, magazine,
or tablet at an angle above the tabletop's 202 surface. In other
words, a book, magazine, or tablet may lean against the kickstand
205 for a desired viewing angle. The support ledge 204 further
prevents the media from sliding off the tabletop 202. The kickstand
205 may be made from wood, aluminum, injection molded plastic or
other materials. In one embodiment, a kickstand cutout 112 may be
carved out of the tabletop's surface to allow the kickstand 205 to
lay flush with the tabletop's surface when not in use. A user can
lift the kickstand 205 out of the kickstand cutout 212 and position
the kickstand 205 at a desired angle. The user can adjust the angle
of the kickstand 205 by sliding it further or closer along the
kickstand cutout 212. In other words, the further back the
kickstand 205 is placed, the lower the angle relative to the
tabletop's surface.
[0045] In one embodiment, the kickstand's position is maintained
via the frictional characteristics of the bottom of the kickstand
against the surface of the kickstand cutout 212. In other words,
when a book, laptop or tablet is placed against the kickstand 205,
the kickstand 205 will maintain its position due to the friction
created between the kickstand 205 and the kickstand cutout 212. In
another embodiment, a thumb screw or spring loaded downward pin may
be used to hold the kickstand in place. For example, a pin or screw
may protrude through the back of the kickstand. A user can tighten
the pin or screw into the surface of the kickstand cutout 212 to
maintain a desired angle.
[0046] In one embodiment, the tabletop 202 may be centered over the
desktop 201. The tabletop 202 may have varying dimensions with
respect to the desktop's dimensions. In one embodiment the
tabletop's dimensions allow for a full-size laptop and external
mouse to be placed on its surface. The tabletop 202 may be made
from wood, injection molded plastic, aluminum, steel or other
materials. In one embodiment, one or more of the tabletop's
surfaces may be covered in a similar dampening material as used for
the desktop 201. Such dampening materials are useful for absorbing
and thus reducing vibrations generated from a user running on a
treadmill, using a stair climber, riding a stationary bike, etc.
Additionally, the surface of the dampening material may have
frictional characteristics to grip a laptop, phone, book, mouse or
other device placed on the tabletop 202.
[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates an overhead view of a portable
workstation 300 having a desktop 301 and a tabletop 302. The
portable workstation 300 rests on top of a pair of handlebars 310
as found on a treadmill or other exercise machines. In one
embodiment, the desktop 301 is secured to the handlebars 310 via
four support straps (not shown). Each support strap is threaded
through a pair of adjacent strap slots 309, with the ends of each
support strap affixed to each other from underneath or to the sides
of the handlebars 310. The tabletop 302 includes support legs 308,
support leg screws 315, a support ledge 304, support ledge screws
306, an adjustable kickstand 305, and a kickstand cutout 312. The
vertical position of the tabletop 302 relative to the desktop 301
may be secured through support leg screws 315 that are tightened
against the support legs (not shown). Additional mechanisms may be
used to hold the support legs of the tabletop 302 in a desired
vertical position. In one embodiment, the front edge of the desktop
301 and/or tabletop 302 may be inwardly curved to allow a user to
stand closer to the portable workstation 300, than if the edge were
straight.
[0048] FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of a portable workstation
400 having a desktop 401 and a tabletop 402. The portable
workstation 400 rests on a pair of handlebars 410 as found on a
treadmill or other exercise machines. In one embodiment, the
desktop 401 is secured to the handlebars 410 via four support
straps 407. Each support strap is threaded through a pair of
adjacent strap slots (not shown), with the ends of each support
strap 407 affixable to each other. The tabletop 402 comprises
support legs 408, support leg screws 415, ledge screws 406 and a
support ledge 404. The support legs 408 can be seen protruding
through the surface of the desktop 401. The support leg screws 415
may be tightened against the support legs 408 to maintain the
support legs 408 at a desired vertical position.
[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of a tabletop 502. The
tabletop 502 is shown with a support ledge 504, an adjustable
kickstand 505, ledge screws 506, support legs 508, support leg
screws 515, and a kickstand cutout 512. In one embodiment, the
vertical position of the kickstand 505 is maintained by a kickstand
screw 516 that may be tightened down against the surface of the
kickstand cutout 512.
[0050] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a desktop 601
having support straps 607, strap slots 609, and four support slots
611 for receiving and securing support legs from a tabletop (not
shown).
[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a tabletop 702. The
tabletop 702 is shown with a support ledge 704, an adjustable
kickstand 705, ledge screws 706, support legs 708, and a kickstand
cutout 712.
[0052] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a portable
workstation 800 having a desktop 801 and a tabletop 802. The
portable workstation 800 further includes support brackets 808, and
support slots 809. In this embodiment, the support legs described
in FIGS. 2-7 are replaced with the support brackets 808. In one
embodiment, a storage tray 813 is positioned underneath the
tabletop 802, which may be accessible when the tabletop 802 is
raised above the desktop 801. The storage tray 813 may slide out of
or be completely removed from the desktop 802. In one embodiment,
the underside of the tabletop 802 may be hollowed out, such that
the storage tray 813 may fit within the tabletop 802 when the
tabletop 802 is lowered onto the surface of the desktop 801.
[0053] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a portable
workstation 900 having a desktop 901 and a tabletop 902. In this
embodiment, the tabletop 902 lays flat on top of the surface of the
desktop 901. Support brackets 908 are seen protruding through the
desktop 901. In one embodiment, a storage tray (not shown) may be
stored within a hollowed out portion of the tabletop 902.
[0054] FIG. 10 illustrates an underneath view of a portable
workstation 1000 having a tabletop 1002 resting on top of a
desktop. The tabletop 1002 includes support brackets 1008
insertable in support slots of a desktop. The hollow interior of
the support brackets 1008 include grooved teeth 1014. A user can
increase or decrease the height of a tabletop 1002 by moving the
tabletop 1002 up and down until one of the grooved teeth 1014 rests
on a support rod 1015 positioned perpendicular to the grooved teeth
1014. The angle of the tabletop 1002 adjusts by placing different
grooved teeth 1014 on the support rod 1015.
[0055] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a portable
workstation 1100 having support strap slots 1109. In contrast to
the portable workstation described in FIGS. 2-10, portable
workstation 1100 does not include a separate tabletop. In one
embodiment, portable workstation 1100 includes one or more support
brackets 1103 for supporting a laptop or other device above the
workstation's surface. Throughout this application, the term
"laptop" refers to any electronic device, book and magazine that
may rest on support brackets. In one embodiment, two support
brackets 1103 couple to the back of the portable workstation 1100.
The support brackets 1103 are spaced apart to allow for a laptop to
rest across the surface of each bracket. In another embodiment, a
tabletop may be placed on top of the support brackets 1103.
[0056] FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of a portable workstation
1200 having one or more support brackets 1203. In one embodiment,
support brackets 1203 comprise a vertical brace 1204, a top brace
1205, a bottom brace 1206, a support bracket arm 1207 and a support
lip 1208. The vertical brace 1204 is substantially perpendicular to
the surface of the portable workstation 1200. The top brace 1205
and bottom brace 1206 are coupled to and run perpendicular to the
vertical brace 1204. In one embodiment, the distance between the
top brace 1205 and the bottom brace 1206 is slightly larger than
the height of the portable workstation 1200. This arrangement
provides for the back of the portable workstation 1200 to slide
into and fit snuggly between the top brace 1205 and bottom brace
1206.
[0057] In one embodiment, the distance between the top brace 1205
and the bottom brace 1206 is fixed, such that different sized
support brackets are compatible with workstations of varying
heights. In another embodiment, the bottom brace 1206 and/or the
top brace 1205 may be adjustable to accommodate varying
workstations. The support bracket arm 1207 couples to the top of
the vertical brace 1204 at a predetermined angle relative to the
surface of the portable workstation 1200. In one embodiment, the
support bracket arm 1207 is angled slightly below horizontal. The
support lip 1208 couples to the end of the support bracket arm
1207. In one embodiment, the support lip 1208 is oriented above the
support bracket arm 1207 to provide support to a laptop 1210
resting on the support bracket arm 1207. In another embodiment, a
hinge may be coupled between the support bracket arm 1207 and the
vertical brace 1204 to allow for angular adjustments to the support
bracket arm 1207.
[0058] In one embodiment, the support bracket 1203 is four inches
tall. The distance between the top brace 1205 and the bottom brace
1206 is 7/16.'' The top brace 1205 and bottom brace 1206 are six
inches long. The support bracket arm 1207 may be 11'' long and the
support lip 1208 is one inch tall. These dimensions are merely
exemplary of one embodiment. One or more parts of the support
bracket 1203 may use different dimensions without changing the
scope of the invention.
[0059] The support brackets 1203 may be constructed from aluminum,
metal, wood, plastics, vinyl to name a few. Additionally, the
support brackets 1203 may be modelled and printed from a 3D printer
using various materials such as plastics, ceramics or other
materials know by those skilled in the art.
[0060] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a portable
workstation 1300 having support strap slots 1309 and two support
brackets 1303. The support brackets 1303 slide between the top and
bottom of the portable workstation 1300. The portable workstation
1300 may also have cutout handles 1304 for carrying the workstation
1300. Additionally, a user may use one or more of the support
straps 1307 to carry the workstation 1300.
[0061] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of a stationary bike having a
handlebar system 1400. In one embodiment, the handlebar system 1400
has three handlebar sections. The base handlebar 1422 may run
perpendicular to the direction a user generally pedals on the bike.
The base handlebar 1422 is generally positioned so a user can place
their arms on top of the handlebar. A middle handlebar section 1423
may run perpendicular to the base handlebar 1422 and towards the
front of the bike. An angled handlebar 1424 may also run
perpendicular to the base handlebar 1422. The angled handlebar 1424
is often angled upward providing a place for a user to grip with
their hands.
[0062] FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment of a stationary bike and
portable workstation 1500. Stationary bikes and other exercise
machines come from a variety of manufacturers having numerous
handlebar system configurations. Each machine's handlebar system
may have a varying numer of handlebars, positions and dimensions.
Different embodiments of portable workstations, as described in the
specification, are configured to adapt to any number of handlebar
system configurations. An exemplary handlebar system is shown in
FIG. 14. A portable workstation 1510 couples to the stationary
bike's 1501 handlebar system. In this embodiment, the handlebar
system comprises three handlebar sections: a base handlebar, a
middle handlebar, and an angled handlebar.
[0063] In this embodiment, the portable workstation 1510 comprises
a base surface 1502, an angled surface 1503, a hinge 1504, support
straps 1505A-1505C, and a support structure 1506. The base surface
1502 and the angled surface 1503 couple to each other via the hinge
1504. In one embodiment, the hinge 1504 is made from a flexible
material such as plastic, acrylic, vinyl, silicon, elastic polymer,
and other materials know by those skilled in the art of flexible
hinge design. The base surface 1502 and angled surface 1503 may be
permanently or semi-permanently attached to opposite ends of the
hinge 1504. Such an arrangement allows for the base surface 1502
and angled surface 1503 to pivot, along the hinge 1504, at angles
of 180 degrees or more. This arrangement further provides for a
desired angle for the portable desk 1510 when attached to the
bike's 1501 handlebar system. In other words, different stationary
bikes may have varying angles between a base handlebar and a middle
handlebar. Thus, the portable workstation 1510 is adaptable to
multiple handlebar systems.
[0064] The support structure 1506 provides vibration dampening for
the portable workstation 1510. In one embodiment, the support
structure 1506 is placed between the bike's 1501 handlebar system
and the base surface 1502 and/or the angled surface 1503. In one
embodiment, the support structure 1506 may be permanently or
semi-permanently coupled to the underside of the surfaces 1502 and
1503. In another embodiment, the support structure 1506 may merely
rest against the underside of the surfaces 1502 and 1503. In such
an embodiment, the support straps 1505A-1505C may be used to
maintain the support structure 1506 against the underside of the
surfaces 1502 and 1503.
[0065] In one embodiment, the support structure 1506 is comprised
of cork board, semi-rigid foam board, memory foam, inflatable
membranes and the semi-rigid materials capable of providing
vibration dampening between the portable workstation 1510 and the
bike's 1501 handlebar system. Another feature of the support
structure 1506 may be to increase the height of the portable
workstation 1510 with respect to the handlebar system. As such,
varying thicknesses may be used to both increase dampening
characteristics and increase the height and/or angle of the
portable workstation 1510. In one embodiment, the support structure
106 may comprise two pieces in which a first piece fits between the
base surface 1502 and the base and middle handlebars. A second
piece may fit between the angled surface 1503 and the angled
handlebar. In this configuration, there may be a small gap between
the two support structure pieces 1506 located at the hinge
1504.
[0066] Many handlebar systems have non-linear bars. In other words,
the bars may have contours, bends or curves, thus providing an
uneven surface in which the support structure 1506 rests upon. In
one embodiment, the support structure 1506 may be made of a pliable
material (e.g., memory foam, etc.) such that the support structure
1506 may indent or fill in gaps where the handlebar system
introduces contours, curves or bends. In another embodiment, the
support structure 1506 may have slits or cuts in the material
positioned where handlebar contours, curves or bends exist.
[0067] In another embodiment the support structure 1506 may
comprise one or more inflatable pockets, thus allowing the portable
workstation 1510 to move up and down depending on the amount of
inflation in the pockets.
[0068] In one embodiment, the portable workstation 1510 couples to
the handlebar system via fastening straps 1505A-1505C. In one
embodiment, the fastening straps go through the base surface 1502
and angled surface 1503, through slits in the support structure
1506 and attach underneath the handlebar system. In another
embodiment, the support straps 1505A-1505C may pass through the
base surface 1502 and angled surface 1503 without passing through
the support structure 1506. In other words, the support straps
1505A-1505C may run across the support surface 1506 and around it's
ends. In one embodiment, the ends of the support straps attach to
each other with VELCRO.TM., buckles, buttons or other attachment
means. In one embodiment, the straps are made from elastic, pliable
or flexible material such as, but not limited to: silicon, rubber,
vinyl, etc. Other materials may be used for the straps such as:
chain, rope, etc.
[0069] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a portable
workstation 1600 having a base surface 1602, an angled surface
1603, a hinge 1604, and a support structure 1605. A handlebar
system having a base handlebar 1601, a middle handlebar 1611, and
an angled handlebar 1612 is also shown. The base surface 1602 and
the angled surface 1603 are coupled to each other via the hinge
1604. Each end of the hinge 1604 is permanently or semi-permanently
attached to one end of both the base surface 1602 and the angled
surface 1603. The flexibility of the hinge 1604 provides for
adjustments to the angle between the base and angled surface 1602
and 1603.
[0070] The base surface 1602 comprises a pair base strap slots
1608A and a pair of middle strap slots 1608B. The angled surface
1603 comprises a pair of angled support slots 1608C. The strap
slots may be thin slits passing through the base and angled
surfaces 1602 and 1603. A pair of base straps 1606A pass through
the pair of base strap slots 1608A, through or around the support
structure 1605 and attach underneath the base handlebar 1610. A
pair of middle straps 1606B pass through the pair of middle strap
slots 1608B, through or around the support structure 1605 and
attach underneath each end of the middle handlebar 1611. A pair of
angled straps 1606C pass through the pair of angled strap slots
1608C, through or around the support structure 1605 and attach
underneath the base handlebar 1612.
[0071] FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of an angled portable
workstation 1700 attached to a stationary bike 1701. The portable
workstation 1700 comprises a base surface 1702, an angled surface
1703, a hinge 1704, and a support structure 1705. The base surface
1702 and the angled surface 1703 are coupled to each other via the
hinge 1704. Each end of the hinge 1704 is permanently or
semi-permanently attached to one end of both the base surface 1702
and the angled surface 1703. The flexibility of the hinge 1704
provide for adjustments to the angle between the base and angled
surface 1702 and 1703.
[0072] A pair of middle straps 1706B pass through a pair of middle
strap slots (not shown) cut through the base surface 1702, pass
through the support structure 1705 and attach underneath a middle
handlebar 1707B. A pair of angled straps 1706A pass through a pair
of angled strap slots (not shown) cut through the angled surface
1703, and attach underneath an angled handlebar 1707A. In this
illustration, the angled surface 1703 rest directly against the
angled handlebar 1707A without the support structure 1705 placed in
between. In another embodiment, a second piece of the support
structure 1705 may be placed between the angled surface 1703 and
the angled handlebar 1707A.
[0073] In another embodiment, support brackets (not shown), as
illustrated in FIGS. 11-13, may coupled to the back of the portable
workstation 1700 to provide for a laptop being raised off the
surface 1702.
[0074] It is noted that the hinged characteristics of the portable
workstation 1700 allow the workstation to attach to many stationary
bikes having differing handlebar dimensions and angles.
Additionally, the portable workstation 1700 is configured to attach
to additional exercise machines such as treadmills, stair climbers,
elliptical machines and others.
[0075] FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of a portable desk system
attached to a stationary bike 1800. The portable workstation 1800
is coupled to the stationary bike 1801 via one or more support
straps. The portable workstation 1800 comprises a surface 1802 and
a support structure 1805. In this illustration, an angled surface
and a hinge are not included. As such, portable workstation 1800
comprises a single surface piece attached to handlebars of the
stationary bike 1801. A support structure 1805 is positioned
between the surface 1802 and a handlebar system comprising a middle
handlebar 1807B and an angled handlebar 1807A. In this
configuration, the support structure rests across the top of both
the middle handlebar 1807B and the angled handlebar 1807A. In one
embodiment, the thickness of the support structure 1805 may taper
from one end to the other such that the front portion of the
support structure 1805 may be thicker than the back portion, or
vise versa. Additionally, the support structure 1805 may include
one or more inflatable pockets for further adjusting the height and
angle of the portable workstation 1800 relative to the handlebar
system.
[0076] A pair of middle straps 1806B pass through a pair of middle
strap slots (not shown) cut through the surface 1802, pass through
the support structure 1805 and attach underneath a middle handlebar
1807B. A pair of angled straps 1806A pass through a pair of angled
strap slots (not shown) cut through the surface 1802, and attach
underneath an angled handlebar 1807A.
[0077] In a second embodiment, the portable workstation 1800 may
further comprise a hinge and an angled surface (as illustrated in
FIG. 17), with the angled surface positioned adjacent to and 180
degrees from a base surface. In this configuration the support
structure 1805 may run the length of an angled surface and a base
surface, thus providing a single surface without angles.
[0078] In another embodiment, support brackets (not shown), as
illustrated in FIGS. 11-13, may coupled to the back of the portable
workstation 1800 to provide for a laptop being raised off the
surface 1802.
[0079] FIG. 19A illustrates a top view of a portable workstation
1900A configured for an exercise machine. The portable workstation
1900A comprises a surface 1902 further comprising a pair of base
strap slots 1906A positioned towards the front and to the sides of
the surface 1902. The surface 1902 further comprises a pair of
middle strap slots 1906B positioned near the middle of and to the
sides of the surface 1902. The surface 1902 further comprises a
pair of angled strap slots 1906C positioned near the top of and to
the sides of the surface 1902. Each pair of strap slots further
comprises two slots wherein each end of a support strap (not shown)
may pass through each of the two strap slots. In one embodiment,
each strap slot may be 21/4'' long and 1/4'' wide. Each of the two
strap slots may run parallel to each other and spaced approximately
11/2''-13/4'' apart. In one embodiment, each pair of strap slots
may be positioned above a handlebar of a stationary bike thus
allowing each end of a support strap to pass through the strap
slots and rest on each side of the handlebar.
[0080] In one embodiment, the surface 1902 is made from laminate
wood approximately 1/4'' thick. Other materials such as plastic,
metal, raw woods, etc. may be used without deviating from the scope
of the invention. In one embodiment, the surface's 1902 dimensions
may be 30'' wide and 22'' deep allowing for placement on a number
of stationary bike handlebar dimensions. One skilled in the art can
appreciate that other dimensions may be used without deviating from
the scope of the invention. As such, the exemplary dimensions
should not be construed as limiting in any way.
[0081] In many scenarios, the surface 1902 may be angled forward,
due to the nature of stationary bike's handlebar systems, thus
causing devices to slide forward and off the surface 1902. In one
embodiment, the surface 1902 may be coated in a non-skid material
thus providing frictioned contact with a tablet, laptop, book, etc.
In another embodiment, a raised lip (not shown) may be placed on
the front edge of the surface 1902 as a means of preventing a
device or book from sliding off.
[0082] A support structure 1905, is placed underneath the surface
1902 and between the surface 1902 and handlebars. In one
embodiment, the support structure 1905 is u-shaped with bottom,
left side, and right side borders defining the perimeter of the
structure. In one embodiment, the borders may be 3'' wide, however
other widths may be used without deviating from the scope of the
invention. The support structure 1905 may be positioned above the
handlebars of a stationary bike. As such, the width and/or depth of
the surface 1902 may be greater than the perimeter of the support
structure 1905. In one embodiment, the center of the left and right
borders of the support structure 1905 may be 22'' apart. However,
other dimensions may be used without deviating from the scope of
the invention. In another embodiment, the support structure 1905
may be a single solid piece instead of borders in a u shaped
configuration. The support structure 1905 may be corkboard, soft
foam, semi-rigid foam, inflatable membranes and any other materials
having beneficial dampening characteristics for absorbing
vibrations caused by a user using an exercise machine.
[0083] FIG. 19B illustrates a front view of a portable workstation
1900B configured for use on an exercise machine. The portable
workstation 1900B comprises a surface 1912 resting on top of a
support structure 1915.
[0084] FIG. 19C illustrates a side view of a portable workstation
1900C configured for use on an exercise machine. The portable
workstation 1900C comprises a surface 1922 in contact with a
support structure 1925. In one embodiment, the width of the support
structure 1925 tapers from the front to the back. In other words,
when the support structure 1925 is placed on a handlebar system,
the front of the structure may be thicker than the back of the
structure. Alternatively, the back of the support structure 1925
may be thicker than the front. In one embodiment, the front of the
support structure 1925 may be 3.5'' thick, with the back of the
structure being 3.0'' thick.
[0085] FIG. 20A illustrates a top view of a portable workstation
2000A configured for an exercise machine. The portable workstation
2000A comprises a base surface 2002, an angled surface 2003 and a
hinge 2004. The hinge 2004 allows the angled surface 2003 to pivot
relative to the base surface 2002.
[0086] A support structure 2005, is placed underneath the base
surface 2002 and between the base surface 2002 and a handlebar
system. In one embodiment, the support structure 2005 is u-shaped
with a bottom, left side, and right side borders defining the
perimeter of the structure. In one embodiment, the borders may be
3'' wide, however other widths may be used without deviating from
the scope of the invention. The support structure 2005 may be
positioned above the handlebars of a stationary bike. In one
embodiment, the center points of the left and right borders of the
support structure 2005 may be 22'' apart. However, other widths may
be used without deviating from the scope of the invention. In
another embodiment, the support structure 2005 may be a single
solid piece instead of borders in a u shape. The support structure
may be corkboard, soft foam, semi-rigid foam, or other materials
having beneficial dampening characteristics for absorbing
vibrations caused by a user pedaling the stationary bike.
[0087] In one embodiment, a second piece of support structure 2005
may be placed under the angled surface 2003 and between the angled
surface 2003 and a handlebar. Increased vibration dampening and
angles may be achieved with the second piece of support structure
2005.
[0088] FIG. 20B illustrates a front view of a portable workstation
2000B configured for use on an exercise machine. The portable
workstation 2000B comprises a surface 2012 resting on top of a
support structure 2015.
[0089] FIG. 20C illustrates a side view of a portable workstation
2000C configured for use on an exercise machine. The portable
workstation 2000C comprises a base surface 2022 coupled to an
angled surface 2023 via a hinge 2024. The base surface 2022 makes
contact with a support structure 2025. In one embodiment, the width
of the support structure 2025 tapers from the front to the back. In
other words, when the support structure 2025 is placed on a
handlebar system, the front of the structure may be thicker than
the back of the structure. Alternatively, the back of the structure
may be thicker than the front. In one embodiment, the front of the
support structure 2025 may be 3.0'' thick, with the back of the
structure being 2.5'' thick.
[0090] FIG. 21 illustrates a collapsible portable workstation 2100
with a collapsing hinge 2101. In one embodiment, the collapsing
hinge 2101 run across the center of the workstation 2100 from front
to back. The hinge 2101 allows the workstation 2100 to fold in half
along the hinge in order to reduce the workstation's 2100 footprint
during transport or storage.
[0091] FIG. 22 illustrates a collapsible portable workstation 2200
with a collapsing hinge 2201 and a support beam 2203. The
workstation 2200 has a collapsing hinge 2201 running along the
workstation's center from front to back. In one embodiment, a rail
system 2204 runs underneath the center of the workstation 2200 from
front to back. The rail system 2204 is configured to accept a rail
support beam 2203 to support the workstation 2200 when weight is
placed on top of the workstation 2200 during use.
[0092] In another embodiment, a portable workstation may be
implemented with connection hub having one or more electrical
sockets for providing electrical power to one or more devices. For
example, a laptop, tablet, radio, television, MP3 player, DVD
player, smart phone, etc. may be charged while being used. Further,
USB, APPLE LIGHTENING or other plugs may be provided for charging
low voltage devices such as smart phones and tablets. In one
embodiment, a power hub is defined as one or more electrical
sockets and/or one or more USB/APPLE LIGHTENING sockets or plugs. A
power hub may be permanently installed on a portable workstation
such as fitting flush on its surface. In another embodiment, a
power hub is a portable unit that may be semi-permanently affixed
to a portable workstation. A power hub may have either a permanent
or detachable power cable which provides power to the hub via a
wall socket.
[0093] The above specification, examples, and data provide a
complete description of the structure and use of exemplary
embodiments of the invention. Since many embodiments of the
invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope
of the invention, no one embodiment shall be construed as limiting.
Furthermore, structural features of the different embodiments may
be combined in yet another embodiment without departing from the
scope of the invention.
* * * * *