WO2007046827A2 - Adjustable armchair tray - Google Patents
Adjustable armchair tray Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2007046827A2 WO2007046827A2 PCT/US2005/043802 US2005043802W WO2007046827A2 WO 2007046827 A2 WO2007046827 A2 WO 2007046827A2 US 2005043802 W US2005043802 W US 2005043802W WO 2007046827 A2 WO2007046827 A2 WO 2007046827A2
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- platform
- slot
- adjustable tray
- movable fastener
- arm
- Prior art date
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/62—Accessories for chairs
- A47C7/68—Arm-rest tables ; or back-rest tables
- A47C7/705—Arm-rest tables ; or back-rest tables of detachable type
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B23/00—Bed-tables; Trays; Reading-racks; Book-rests, i.e. items used in combination with something else
- A47B23/02—Bed-tables; Trays; Reading-racks; Book-rests, i.e. items used in combination with something else releasably mounted on the bedstead or another item of furniture
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B83/00—Combinations comprising two or more pieces of furniture of different kinds
- A47B83/02—Tables combined with seats
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/62—Accessories for chairs
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/62—Accessories for chairs
- A47C7/68—Arm-rest tables ; or back-rest tables
- A47C7/70—Arm-rest tables ; or back-rest tables of foldable type
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to the field of computer accessories.
- the present invention provides an adjustable tray that may be easily
- keyboard such as a keyboard, roller mouse or optical mouse, pen, joystick, keyboard, keypad,
- roller ball roller ball, trackball, personal digital assistant, cell phone, or similar device or other
- IO devices enable a user to interact with a
- tray that can be quickly and efficiently mounted to the arm of a chair may facilitate
- adjustable armchair tray is referred to simply as an
- the adjustable tray includes a platform that provides a generally
- the platform is
- the platform also preferably includes retainers around its perimeter to
- the main components of the chair arm attachment body are an armchair stop,
- the armchair stop supports the
- platform for use and storage, and connects the platform to the guides that mount on the
- the armchair stop preferably defines a groove, cavity or interconnecting
- the adjustable tray includes guides for allowing the adjustable tray to be
- the guides are slidably interconnected to the chair arm.
- securing device is preferably a strap with a buckle for easy attachment
- the guides retract into corresponding cavities in the chair arm
- the adjustable tray is preferably adjustable to various sizes of chair arms.
- the adjustable tray may also include a pad disposed on the platform and retained by a
- Cushioning material may be used on the armchair stop, the plurality of guides, the
- the armchair stop is securely attached directly to the
- a rotatable joint may be used to tilt or angle the platform to
- FIG. 1 is a top view of an embodiment of the mvention.
- Fig. 2 is a side view of the embodiment of Fig. 1, as mounted on a chair arm.
- FIG. 3 is a front view of the embodiment of Fig. 1.
- Fig 4 shows a fastener according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.
- Fig. 6 is a side view of an embodiment of the invention where the armchair
- Fig. 7 is a side view of an embodiment having a rotatable joint.
- Fig. 8 is a side view of an embodiment having a slideable guide.
- Embodiments of the present invention include an adjustable tray that may be
- FIG. 1 shows a top view of an embodiment of the adjustable tray 10.
- the adjustable tray 10 includes a platform 12,
- the platform 12 may be used to write notes, secure a remote control, hold
- the adjustable tray 10 may be used
- the adjustable tray 10 would easily adapt to fit for the previously mentioned uses.
- the shape defined by the perimeter 12 may vary with the application,
- adjustable tray 10 may be attached are often mounted on rollers. In normal operation,
- the user may roll the chair and cause the platform 12 to contact a desk or other external
- perimeter of the platform 12 may be shaped generally as an oval or an ellipse in some
- Peak in this context, means a
- oval shape of the platform 12 allows the platform 12 to rotate to either side of the chair
- the perimeter of the platform 12 need not be perfectly elliptical; rather, the perimeter of the platform 12 preferably curves smoothly along the
- the platform 12 and other parts of the adjustable tray 10 may be built or
- the platform 12 may incorporate at least one retainer 14,
- the retainer 14 is configured to retain other devices to be retained within the perimeter of the platform 12.
- one or more discrete retainers 14 may be placed on
- a pad 16 or other similar material may be positioned on top of the platform
- the pad 16 is preferably made
- the pad 16 may be rubber, plastic or other material that
- pad 16 may be held in place by glue or restraining tabs (not shown) protruding from the retainer 14.
- the pad retainers may be held in place by glue or restraining tabs (not shown) protruding from the retainer 14.
- the pad retainers may be held in place by glue or restraining tabs (not shown) protruding from the retainer 14.
- the pad retainers may be held in place by glue or restraining tabs (not shown) protruding from the retainer 14.
- the platform may be a molded part of the platform or clamps, tie downs, hook and loop fasteners,
- IO devices may be rigidly
- platform 12 may be integrated with the case of the IO device, so that the platform 12
- a movable fastener 18 passes through a hole 20 in the platform 12, pivotally
- fastener 18 is a threaded nut and bolt, a pin connection with a threaded end for
- movable fastener 18 includes a threaded bolt 40 Threaded nut 42 screws onto the
- the movable fastener 18 is preferably ergonomically designed or covered so
- FIG. 2 a side view of the embodiment of Fig. 1, the armchair
- stop 22 is shaped to be positioned directly against a chair arm 24 while preventing the
- the armchair stop 22 has a
- the platform 12 is constructed on two levels: a
- a wrist when using the input device without interference by the fastener 22.
- a wrist when using the input device without interference by the fastener 22.
- pad or cover may be placed on the second level to help support the user's
- FIG. 3 is a front view of the embodiment shown in Fig 1. Referring to Figs. 1,
- the movable fastener 18 flexibly secures the platform 12 to armchair stop 22 by
- a generally horizontal top leg 32 (Fig. 1) having curved regions on each end and
- the slot 28 has additional generally horizontal side legs 36 on either side of armchair
- chair arm 24 by sliding the fastener 18 from horizontal leg 32 mto one of vertical legs 34.
- Vertical legs 34 need not be precisely vertical: they may slope fore and aft or side-to-
- the slot 28 has only one vertical leg 34 so that the
- platform 12 may be stored only on one side of the chair arm 24.
- the platform 12 may be removed from the armchair stop
- Hole 38 is sufficiently large to allow an end of movable fastener 18 to pass through
- Bolt 40 has a head 44 that is
- An embodiment of bolt 40 has a f rustoconical ring 46 circumvolving the shank of
- the hole 20 m the platform 12 may be sized to allow the bolt 40 with the ring
- the hole 20 may optionally be made of a smaller diameter at the upper end,
- annular ring may be replaced with
- bosses 48 engage corresponding axial grooves or similar features
- bosses 48 are depicted as cylinders, the bosses 48
- the adjustable tray 10 further includes one or more guides 50 connected to
- the guides 50 are
- the rear of the armchair stop 22 may include one or more recesses 62
- the securing device 52 is a securing device 52 against the sides of the chair arm by at least one securing device 52.
- 52 as herein defined includes, but is not limited to, a clamp, tape, bungee cords, string,
- Each securing device 52 preferable passes around the chair arm 24
- Fastener 54 may be a Velcro
- the devices 52 presses the guides 50 against the chair arm and into the armchair stop
- Another embodiment may include at least one strap slot or loop in each guide
- the strap slots preferably run a substantial length of the guides 50
- the guides 50 each have a tab 56 on the end
- Guides 50 may also be tapered to better conform to curved chair
- the guides 50 may curve downward in the region 64
- a shallower or deeper curve positions the platform 12
- Curved region 64 need not be smoothly curved in the S-shape shown, it may
- Adjustable tray 10 may include multiple sets of guides 50, each set tapered,
- each guide 50 may be inserted into a
- the chair arm 24 has an additional cavity 67
- Guides 50 may be eliminated by securing armchair stop 22 directly to chair
- Armchair stop 22 may be secured with one or more
- slot hangers Using a key and slot hanger, one or more keys attached to armchair stop
- Each slot has an enlarged region so that the key may be
- the cushioning material 66 allows the
- Cushioning material 66 also provides a non-
- Cushioning material 66 may be any material such as rubber, plastic or cloth that
- the chair prevents slippage and marring of the arm of the chair.
- the chair prevents slippage and marring of the arm of the chair.
- cushioning material 66 is neoprene or other non-skid rubberized material used to form
- Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of the invention having rotatable joints that
- a keyboard that is
- keyboard segment to be rotated to fit the user's hand when the user's arm is resting on
- the left keyboard segment is preferably
- segment is preferably tilted or rotated clockwise.
- the angle of rotation varies with the
- the platform 12 is attached to an arm 70 that is divided into three
- segment 76 of the arm 70 is attached to the armchair stop 22 by the movable fastener 18,
- a middle segment 80 connects rotatable joints 72 and 74.
- outboard segment 78 rotates on a first pin 82, and the middle segment 80 rotates about a
- FIG. 7 shows the outboard segment 78 in an exemplary first position
- segment 78 about joint 74 is not limited to the positions shown and may extend to wider
- the outboard segment 78 may be prevented from rotating beyond the desired
- the static friction may be overcome by applying a manual moment to the
- rotational control device 86 may be used to control rotation, such as a rubber washer,
- Rotation of joint 74 may be controlled in a similar manner, including
- the arm 70 or the
- joint 72 may be angled from the long axis of the arm 70 to allow the platform to rotate
- the rotatable joint 70 may be combined with a
- the platform 12 is connected to the arm 70 by an
- the adjustable fastener 88 may be a bolt with a knurled head, a
- element 90 may be placed between the arm 70 and the platform 12 to prevent rotation of
- the frictional device may be a rubber washer, fiber washer, star washer, or other frictional device capable of
- the arm 70 may be permanently
- retainer 14 is sized to accommodate a keyboard 100.
- Fig. 7 also shows an alternative embodiment for controlling the rotation of
- Flexible material 92 may also cushion the
- Flexible material 92 may be neoprene, rubber,
- a friction element 94 may be placed on the shaft of fastener 18 so that it
- element 94 may be a rubber washer, fiber washer, star washer, or other f ⁇ ctional device
Landscapes
- Chair Legs, Seat Parts, And Backrests (AREA)
- Special Chairs (AREA)
Abstract
A multi-functional adjustable tray that mounts on the arm of a chair to provide a comfortably accessible work surface to support a computer mouse and other IO devices. The adjustable tray may be easily mounted to an arm of a chair and provides width, length, rotation, and storage adjustments. The adjustable tray includes a platform that is pivotally connected to an armchair stop. The armchair stop may be supported by adjustable guide that may be secured to the chair arm by a compression element. The tray may include one or more rotatable joints to allow the platform or IO devices to be tilted to a comfortable working angle.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of computer accessories.
More particularly, the present invention provides an adjustable tray that may be easily
mounted to the arm of a chair to provide a generally planar working surface to support
a computer mouse and other accessories, devices and objects.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Computers are operated through the use of peripheral systems and devices
such as a keyboard, roller mouse or optical mouse, pen, joystick, keyboard, keypad,
roller ball, trackball, personal digital assistant, cell phone, or similar device or other
device, referred to collectively as IO devices. IO devices enable a user to interact with a
computer or network to send or receive information, make decisions, and carry out
various other functions Direct physical contact with, and therefore close proximity to,
these devices are essential to their operation.
[0003] However, in most circumstances a computer user works at a desk and leans
forward or sideways from a comfortable sitting position to reach a keyboard or mouse
on a desk or other flat surface. Reaching for the keyboard or the mouse in this way
makes it very difficult to maintain proper posture and operate the computer
comfortably. Use of IO devices on a desktop stresses the back, shoulder and the wrist.
For wrist stress and carpal tunnel syndrome, numerous products, such as
ergonomically shaped mice and wrist supports, attempt to address the symptoms of
this stress without addressing the awkward positioning that often causes strain.
[0004] Additionally, persons with debilitating injuries may find that reaching to a
desk to use IO devices is difficult or painful. Accordingly, there is a need for a surface
for supporting one or more IO devices that maintains a position so that the user may
maintain ergonomically correct posture and wrist position.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0005] The physical stresses resulting from the awkward positioning and use of IO
devices on a desktop may be remedied by mounting an adjustable tray to the left or
right arm of a chair in order to facilitate the operation of a mouse or other IO device as a
natural extension of a person's arm from a comfortable seated position. An adjustable
tray that can be quickly and efficiently mounted to the arm of a chair may facilitate
comfortable use of a computer keyboard on a person's lap without reaching for other IO
devices, or use of a keyboard on the platform, further correcting the hunched forward
position of many computer users. Multiple trays may be used simultaneously; for
example, with a keyboard and a mouse, or split keyboards adapted for use with the left
and right hands.
[0006] As used herein, the adjustable armchair tray is referred to simply as an
adjustable tray. The adjustable tray includes a platform that provides a generally
planar working surface particularly suited for operation of IO devices. The platform is
rotatably fastened to a chair arm attachment body, which is adjustable to fit various
styles, widths, and lengths of chair arms.
[0007] The platform also preferably includes retainers around its perimeter to
prevent devices from sliding off the platform, and retainers to retain a pad on the
platform when the platform is rotated and stored to the side of the chair.
[0008] The main components of the chair arm attachment body are an armchair stop,
guides and one or more compression elements. The armchair stop supports the
platform for use and storage, and connects the platform to the guides that mount on the
arm of a chair. The armchair stop preferably defines a groove, cavity or interconnecting
groove by which the armchair stop is pivotally connected by a fastener to the platform
through one of the slots in the platform. This interconnection allows the platform to
slide and rotate withm the horizontal plane for use, and within the vertical plane for
storage of the platform to the side of a chair.
[0009] The adjustable tray includes guides for allowing the adjustable tray to be
mounted to the chair arm. The manner of attachment presents various embodiments of
the adjustable tray. In some embodiments, the guides are slidably interconnected to the
armchair stop and fixed against the chair arm by at least one securing device. The
securing device is preferably a strap with a buckle for easy attachment In other
embodiments, the guides retract into corresponding cavities in the chair arm
[0010] The adjustable tray is preferably adjustable to various sizes of chair arms.
The adjustable tray may also include a pad disposed on the platform and retained by a
retainer around the periphery of the platform or, one or more discrete pad retainers.
Cushioning material may be used on the armchair stop, the plurality of guides, the
plurality of vertical guides and the bottom support member to prevent movement of the
adjustable tray or marring of the chair during use.
[0011] In other embodiments, the armchair stop is securely attached directly to the
chair arm, eliminating the adjustable guides while still allowing the platform to be
placed in a generally horizontal plane for use and a generally vertical plane for storage.
In still other embodiments, a rotatable joint may be used to tilt or angle the platform to
accommodate the user's wrist rotation, which is particularly useful for ergonomic use of
keyboards
[0012] The purpose of the foregoing Abstract is to enable the United States Patent
and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially the scientists, engineers,
and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or
phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection, the nature and essence of
the technical disclosure of the application. The Abstract is neither intended to define the
invention, which is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the
scope of the invention in any way.
[0013] Still other features and advantages of the present invention will become
readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description
wherem only the preferred embodiments of the invention will be described and shown,
simply by way of illustration of the best modes contemplated to manifest the invention.
As will be realized, the invention is capable of modification in various obvious respects
all without departing from the mvention Accordingly, the drawmgs and description of
the preferred embodiments are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as
restrictive in nature.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0014] Fig. 1 is a top view of an embodiment of the mvention.
[0015] Fig. 2 is a side view of the embodiment of Fig. 1, as mounted on a chair arm.
[0016] Fig. 3 is a front view of the embodiment of Fig. 1.
[0017] Fig 4 shows a fastener according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0018] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.
[0019] Fig. 6 is a side view of an embodiment of the invention where the armchair
stop is secured directly to the chair arm.
[0020] Fig. 7 is a side view of an embodiment having a rotatable joint.
[0021] Fig. 8 is a side view of an embodiment having a slideable guide.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0022] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative
constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof have been shown in the
drawings and will be described below in detail. It should be understood, however, that
there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific forms disclosed; on the
contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and
equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0023] Embodiments of the present invention include an adjustable tray that may be
mounted on various types of chair arms. Although many different uses are available
for the present invention as there are uses for chairs, the present invention will
commonly be referenced as an adjustable tray. Fig. 1 shows a top view of an
embodiment of the adjustable tray 10. The adjustable tray 10 includes a platform 12,
which provides a generally planar surface for IO devices and other writing utensils.
Additionally, the platform 12 may be used to write notes, secure a remote control, hold
food or a beverage, or facilitate other similar uses. The adjustable tray 10 may be used
on any device or location that is equipped with a chair arm or substantially equivalent
structure For example, many automobile seats are now equipped with armrests that
the adjustable tray 10 would easily adapt to fit for the previously mentioned uses.
[0024] The shape defined by the perimeter 12 may vary with the application,
including square, rectangular, circular, or other shapes. The chairs to which the
adjustable tray 10 may be attached are often mounted on rollers. In normal operation,
the user may roll the chair and cause the platform 12 to contact a desk or other external
object To avoid being captured between the external object and the chair arm, the
perimeter of the platform 12 may be shaped generally as an oval or an ellipse in some
embodiments, and preferably modified by a peak 15 Peak, in this context, means a
region of the perimeter that converges more sharply than an oval or ellipse. The overall
oval shape of the platform 12 allows the platform 12 to rotate to either side of the chair
arm and slide along the object as the object gently pushes it aside. The peak 15 insures
that the platform 12 swings to one side or the other, rather than being captured along
the long axis of the chair arm. The perimeter of the platform 12 need not be perfectly
elliptical; rather, the perimeter of the platform 12 preferably curves smoothly along the
sides, and curving more sharply on the end.
[0025] The platform 12 and other parts of the adjustable tray 10 may be built or
molded of any material that allows for strength and ease of use such as wood, plastic or
other similar materials. The platform 12 may incorporate at least one retainer 14,
preferably located around the periphery of the platform 12, to allow a mouse pad, or
other devices to be retained within the perimeter of the platform 12. The retainer 14
provides a boundary that prevents IO devices or other materials from falling off the
platform 12 In some embodiments, one or more discrete retainers 14 may be placed on
all sides of the platform 12 to assure that a device does not fall off any side of the
platform.
[0026] A pad 16 or other similar material may be positioned on top of the platform
12 and configured to be easily replaced when worn out. The pad 16 is preferably made
of materials similar to those used for basic stand-alone computer mouse pads, typically
neoprene. Additionally, the pad 16 may be rubber, plastic or other material that
facilitates the operation of a roller ball mouse, optical mouse or other similar computer-
interfacing device. To prevent the pad 16 from falling when the platform 12 is placed in
a stored or disengaged position, pad 16 may be held in place by glue or restraining tabs
(not shown) protruding from the retainer 14. In other embodiments, the pad retainers
may be a molded part of the platform or clamps, tie downs, hook and loop fasteners,
snaps or other elements that could similarly maintain the correct positioning of the pad
16 on the platform 12.
[0027] In some embodiments of the present invention, IO devices may be rigidly
attached to the platform 12, eliminating the need for retainer 14. Alternatively, the
platform 12 may be integrated with the case of the IO device, so that the platform 12
and the IO device are presented to the user as a unit.
[0028] A movable fastener 18 passes through a hole 20 in the platform 12, pivotally
securing the platform 12 to an armchair stop 22. As herein defined, the movable
fastener 18 is a threaded nut and bolt, a pin connection with a threaded end for
tightening purposes, or any other element that provides a rotational pivot for the
angular adjustment of the platform 12, while still interconnecting the platform 12 with
the armchair stop 22. In the embodiment of movable fastener 18 shown in Fig. 4, the
movable fastener 18 includes a threaded bolt 40 Threaded nut 42 screws onto the
shank of bolt 40, capturing the platform 12 between threaded nut 42 and the head 44 of
bolt 40. Tightening the nut 42 secures the platform 12 and prevents it from rotating;
loosening nut 42 slightly releases the platform 12 enough to allow rotation to a
comfortable position, [check whether should talk about neoprene retainer, 51, 52]
[0029] The movable fastener 18 is preferably ergonomically designed or covered so
that it does not interfere with the user during use of devices on the adjustable tray 10.
This may be accomplished by incorporating a rounded or other shape that allows it to
be easily tightened while simultaneously maintaining user comfort. Rounded, in this
context, means that the nut has no sharp edges exposed to the user when installed.
[0030] Referring now to Fig. 2, a side view of the embodiment of Fig. 1, the armchair
stop 22 is shaped to be positioned directly against a chair arm 24 while preventing the
platform 12 from sliding toward the back of the chair On some chairs, that position
will be where the armrest transitions from horizontal to vertical. The adjustable tray 10
will also work on different styles of arms and chairs with the only general compatibility
requirement being that the chair has an armrest equivalent The armchair stop 22 has a
curved or slanted region 26 to accommodate any curvature of chair arm 24. When the
region 26 of armchair stop 22 abuts the chair arm 24, the chair arm 24 provides
additional support to the adjustable tray 10.
[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the platform 12 is constructed on two levels: a
first level that supports an IO device, and a second level lower than the first level
through which the fastener 18 passes This two- tier structure allows the first level to be
generally level with the chair arm, so that the user's wrist is approximately straight
when using the input device without interference by the fastener 22. Optionally, a wrist
pad or cover (not shown) may be placed on the second level to help support the user's
wrist.
[0032] Fig. 3 is a front view of the embodiment shown in Fig 1. Referring to Figs. 1,
2, and 3, the movable fastener 18 flexibly secures the platform 12 to armchair stop 22 by
passing through the hole 20 in the platform 12, through a slot 28 in the armchair stop 22,
and into a cavity 30 (Fig 3) in armchair stop 22. The slot 28 m the armchair stop 22 has
a generally horizontal top leg 32 (Fig. 1) having curved regions on each end and
connecting to two generally vertical legs 34 on either side of armchair stop 22 (Fig. 2)
The slot 28 has additional generally horizontal side legs 36 on either side of armchair
stop 22, terminating in an enlarged hole 38. The shape of slot 28 allows the platform 12
to be positioned on the top of armchair stop 22 for use, or positioned to either side of
chair arm 24 by sliding the fastener 18 from horizontal leg 32 mto one of vertical legs 34.
Vertical legs 34 need not be precisely vertical: they may slope fore and aft or side-to-
side to accommodate chair arms of various shapes. Similarly, horizontal side legs 36
need not be precisely horizontal.
[0033] As a result, a person may use the adjustable tray 10 with the platform
horizontal and then rotate the platform and the movable fastener 18 within the slot 28
so that the platform 12 is in a vertical storage position The transition is easily made by
loosening the movable fastener 18 slightly, and then sliding the movable fastener 18 and
the connected platform 12 within the slot 28 from the horizontal plane to the vertical
plane. In another embodiment, the slot 28 has only one vertical leg 34 so that the
platform 12 may be stored only on one side of the chair arm 24.
[0034] Referring to Fig. 2, the platform 12 may be removed from the armchair stop
22 by sliding the movable fastener 18 along the leg 36 of the slot 28 to enlarged hole 38
Hole 38 is sufficiently large to allow an end of movable fastener 18 to pass through,
releasing the movable fastener 18 and the platform 12 from the armchair stop 22.
[0035] The embodiment of the movable fastener 18 shown m Fig. 4 has a threaded
bolt 40 and an ergonomically shaped threaded nut 42. Bolt 40 has a head 44 that is
small enough to pass through enlarged hole 38, yet still engage legs 32, 34, and 36 of slot
28 An embodiment of bolt 40 has a f rustoconical ring 46 circumvolving the shank of
bolt 40 and one or more bosses 48 protruding from the shank of bolt 40.
[0036] The hole 20 m the platform 12 may be sized to allow the bolt 40 with the ring
46 to pass through as a press fit. After the ring 46 passes through the hole 20 (Fig. 2),
the bolt 40 is captured on the topside of the platform 12 by the ring 46 and on the
bottom side by head 44, while still allowed to move a short distance in an axial
direction. The hole 20 may optionally be made of a smaller diameter at the upper end,
to allow the ring 46 to easily pass through during assembly, while still capturing the
bolt 40 during operation. In another embodiment, annular ring may be replaced with
one or more barbs.
[0037] One or more bosses 48 engage corresponding axial grooves or similar features
in the hole 20 to prevent rotation of the bolt 40 relative to the platform 12 when the nut
42 is tightened, eliminating the need for a washer and facilitating tightening of the nut
42 to secure the platform 12. While the bosses 48 are depicted as cylinders, the bosses 48
may be of any shape that engages the grooves and prevents rotation, including a
polyhedron or hemisphere.
[0038] The adjustable tray 10 further includes one or more guides 50 connected to
the armchair stop 22. Viewed from above as shown in Fig. 1, the guides 50 are
approximately L-shaped on each end, and one leg of each guide is inserted into a hole
58 and a hole 60 in the armchair stop 22. Holes 58 and 60 are offset, permitting the legs
inserted into the slot to be relatively long, accommodating both wide chair arms and
narrow chair arms, where the legs overlap each other in the slots In an embodiment
shown in Fig. 5, the rear of the armchair stop 22 may include one or more recesses 62
sized to accommodate guides 50, allowing guides 50 to be adjusted to accommodate a
chair arm 24 narrower than armchair stop 22.
[0039] In a preferred embodiment depicted in Fig. 5, the guides 50 are compressed
against the sides of the chair arm by at least one securing device 52. The securing device
52 as herein defined includes, but is not limited to, a clamp, tape, bungee cords, string,
tie cords, or straps. Each securing device 52 preferable passes around the chair arm 24
and guides 50 and is preferably fastened by a fastener 54. Fastener 54 may be a Velcro
fastener, a Tabler buckle, a clip, or similar buckling device. The compression force of
the devices 52 presses the guides 50 against the chair arm and into the armchair stop,
effectively securing the adjustable tray 10. This embodiment provides the advantage of
simplicity and allows the adjustable tray 10 to be quickly and easily mounted to the
chair arm with ease.
[0040] Another embodiment may include at least one strap slot or loop in each guide
50 in which to thread the securing devices 52 to compress and secure the guides 50 to
the chair arm. The strap slots preferably run a substantial length of the guides 50
allowing the securing devices 52 to be slid or moved to accommodate the configuration
of the chair arm and particularly the support members.
[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the guides 50 each have a tab 56 on the end
furthest from the armchair stop 22 to prevent securing devices 52 from slipping off the
ends of guides 50. Guides 50 may also be tapered to better conform to curved chair
arms.
[0042] Referring to Fig. 3, the guides 50 may curve downward in the region 64
nearest the armchair stop 22 so that the platform 12 is approximately level with the
uppermost surface of guides 50 Without the curved region 64, the platform 12 would
be positioned above the chair arm 24, causing the user's wrist to flex upward when
using a mouse or other IO device, potentially causing carpal tunnel stress within the
wrist. In another embodiment, a shallower or deeper curve positions the platform 12
above or below the chair arm 24, respectively, which may be comfortable for some
users. Curved region 64 need not be smoothly curved in the S-shape shown, it may
descend sharply in a Z-shape or with perpendicular angles.
[0043] Adjustable tray 10 may include multiple sets of guides 50, each set tapered,
curved, and including features that best fit a class of chair arms. The user may then
select the set of guides that best fits the user's chair.
[0044] In another embodiment, shown in Fig. 8, each guide 50 may be inserted into a
corresponding cavity 65 in chair arm 24 The walls of the cavity support the guide 50,
which in turn supports the armchair stop 22. Each guide 50 may slide in and out of the
cavity, allowing the user to place the platform 12 a comfortable distance away from the
chair arm 24. In some embodiments, the chair arm 24 has an additional cavity 67
adapted to accept the armchair stop 22, so that the armchair stop 22 may be retracted
mto the chair arm 24 and out of the way of the user. In some embodiments, only one
guide 50 is required, because there is no need to adapt the adjustable tray 10 to fit the
width of the chair arm 24.
[0045] Guides 50 may be eliminated by securing armchair stop 22 directly to chair
arm 24, as shown in Fig. 6. Armchair stop 22 may be secured with one or more
permanent fasteners 68, such as screws or glue, or removable fasteners, such as key and
slot hangers. Using a key and slot hanger, one or more keys attached to armchair stop
22 engage slots in chair arm 24. Each slot has an enlarged region so that the key may be
disengaged from the slot, allowing removal of the armchair tray. It is preferable to
install the slots on chair arm 24, rather than the key, so that the key does not protrude
from chair arm 24 when armchair stop 22 is removed.
[0046] The armchair stop 22, the guides 50, and the securing devices 52 are
preferably lined with a cushioning material 66. The cushioning material 66 allows the
guides 50 and the armchair stop 22 to be tightened against the surface of a chair without
scratching or other marring of the chair. Cushioning material 66 also provides a non-
slip surface that prevents movement during the use of the adjustable tray 10.
Cushioning material 66 may be any material such as rubber, plastic or cloth that
prevents slippage and marring of the arm of the chair. In a preferred embodiment, the
cushioning material 66 is neoprene or other non-skid rubberized material used to form
traditional stand-alone mouse pads.
[0047] Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of the invention having rotatable joints that
allow the platform 12 to be tilted to comfortably accommodate a user's hand and wrist
position while using a keyboard or other IO device. In particular, a keyboard that is
split into two parts, one for the left hand and one for the right hand, allows each
keyboard segment to be rotated to fit the user's hand when the user's arm is resting on
the chair arm or held comfortably above it The left keyboard segment is preferably
tilted or rotated counter-clockwise from the user's perspective; the right keyboard
segment is preferably tilted or rotated clockwise. The angle of rotation varies with the
user, the layout of the chair arm, and the size and configuration of the keyboard.
Referring to Fig. 7, the platform 12 is attached to an arm 70 that is divided into three
segments by a first rotatable joint 72 and a second rotatable joint 74. An inboard
segment 76 of the arm 70 is attached to the armchair stop 22 by the movable fastener 18,
and an outboard segment 78 of the arm 70 is attached to the platform 12. A middle
segment 80 connects rotatable joints 72 and 74. In a preferred embodiment, the
outboard segment 78 rotates on a first pin 82, and the middle segment 80 rotates about a
second pin 84. Fig. 7 shows the outboard segment 78 in an exemplary first position
where the user's wrist extends upward, designated as 78, and an exemplary second
position where the user's wrist flexes downward, designated as 78'. The rotation of
segment 78 about joint 74 is not limited to the positions shown and may extend to wider
or narrower angles.
[0048] The outboard segment 78 may be prevented from rotating beyond the desired
angle by static factional contact between the middle segment 80 and the outboard
segment 78. The static friction may be overcome by applying a manual moment to the
outboard segment of the arm 70. The ease of rotation may be controlled by using a bolt,
machine screw, or lag screw with a knurled head as the pin 82 so that the bolt may be
tightened or loosened to control the friction between the segments An optional
rotational control device 86 may be used to control rotation, such as a rubber washer,
fiber washer, toothed surfaces on segments 78 and 80, or other suitable rotation
controlling device. Rotation of joint 74 may be controlled in a similar manner, including
use of a rotation control device 86 between the surfaces of middle segment 80 and
inboard segment 76.
[0049] The embodiment shown in Fig. 7 allows the platform to be rotated about the
long axis of the arm 70 via rotatable joint 72. In other embodiments, the arm 70 or the
joint 72 may be angled from the long axis of the arm 70 to allow the platform to rotate
about an arbitrary axis Alternatively, the rotatable joint 70 may be combined with a
universal joint to increase flexibility when positioning the platform 12. It may also be
recognized that some applications require only one rotatable joint, so that platform 12
has only one axis of rotation.
[0050] In some embodiments, the platform 12 is connected to the arm 70 by an
adjustable fastener 88. The adjustable fastener 88 may be a bolt with a knurled head, a
pin connection with a threaded end for tightening purposes, or any other element that
provides a rotational pivot for rotational adjustment of the platform 12. A friction
element 90 may be placed between the arm 70 and the platform 12 to prevent rotation of
the platform 12 when the adjustable fastener 88 is tightened. The friction element 90
may be a rubber washer, fiber washer, star washer, or other frictional device capable of
resistmg the rotation of platform 12. Alternatively, the arm 70 may be permanently
affixed to the platform 12.
[0051] While the rotatable joint 72 is particularly useful with keyboard applications,
it is not limited to keyboard applications and may be used, by way of example, with
other IO devices such as trackballs. In embodiments employing rotatable joint 72, it is
preferable to insure that the size of the retainer 14 is adequate to retain the IO device
when the platform 12 is tilted away from a level position As shown in Fig. 7, the
retainer 14 is sized to accommodate a keyboard 100.
[0052] Fig. 7 also shows an alternative embodiment for controlling the rotation of
fastener 18. Flexible material 92 may be affixed to the inboard segment 76. The fastener
18 passes through the flexible material 92 so that the factional contact with the material
prevents easy rotation of the fastener 18. Flexible material 92 may also cushion the
inboard arm 76 where it contacts the armchair stop 22 and may prevent rotation of the
inboard arm 76 relative to the chair arm. Flexible material 92 may be neoprene, rubber,
or similar material capable of lightly gripping the shank of fastener 18, fπctionally
preventing rotation of the inboard arm 76, or cushioning the inboard arm 76.
Optionally, a friction element 94 may be placed on the shaft of fastener 18 so that it
contacts armchair stop 22 when fastener 18 is tightened, as in Fig. 2. The friction
element 94 may be a rubber washer, fiber washer, star washer, or other fπctional device
capable of resisting the rotation of fastener 18.
[0053] While there is shown and described the present preferred embodiments of the
invention, it is to be distinctly understood that this invention is not limited thereto but
may be variously embodied to practice within the scope of the following claims. From
the foregoing description, it will be apparent that various changes may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following
claims.
Claims
1. An adjustable tray for use on a chair arm having a top surface and a width
dimension, comprising-
an armchair stop fastened to the chair arm;
a platform defining a securing hole; and
a movable fastener having body and a head, the body passing through the
securing hole into the armchair stop, wherein the platform is rotatably connected to the
armchair stop by the movable fastener, and wherein the platform is movable from an
approximately horizontal plane to an approximately vertical plane.
2. The adjustable tray of claim 1, wherein the armchair stop further comprises.
a generally horizontal surface defining a first slot, the first slot adapted to retain
the head of the movable fastener and to allow the body of the movable fastener to pass
therethrough, and
a generally vertical surface defining a second slot, the second slot connected to
the first slot and adapted to retain the head of the movable fastener and to allow the
body of the movable fastener to pass therethrough;
wherein the movable fastener passes from the first slot to the second slot and
vice-versa, allowing the platform to be positioned in an approximately horizontal plane
and an approximately vertical plane.
3. The adjustable tray of claim 2, wherein the vertical surface further defines:
a third slot in the vertical surface, the third slot connected to the second slot and
adapted to allow the body of the movable fastener to pass therethrough and adapted to
retain the head of the movable fastener; and
a hole connected to the third slot and adapted to allow the head of the movable
fastener to pass therethrough;
whereby the platform may be released from the armchair stop by passing the
movable fastener through the third slot and passing the head through the enlarged
region.
4 The adjustable tray of claim 1, further comprising:
an elongated guide adjustably connected to the armchair stop, wherein the
elongated guide supports the armchair stop, the elongated guide is adjustable to fit the
adjustable tray to the width dimension of the chair arm, and the elongated guide has a
first end and a second end; and
a compression element αrcumvolving the chair arm and the elongated guide to
secure the elongated guide to the chair arm.
5 The adjustable tray of claim 4, wherein the armchair stop further defines a hole
adapted to receive the first end of the elongated guide, and wherein the first end of the
elongated guide is slideable within the hole to adjust the adjustable tray to fit the width
dimension of the chair arm
6. The adjustable tray of claim 4, wherein the elongated guide further defines at
least one slit; wherein the compression element passes through the slit to secure the
elongated guide to the chair arm.
7. The adjustable tray of claim 4, wherein the elongated guide is shaped in an S-
curve to maintain the generally planar working surface approximately level with the
top of the chair arm.
8. The adjustable tray of claim 4, wherein the elongated guide further comprises a
tab connected to the second end, wherein the tab is adapted to keep the compression
element between the first end and the second end.
9. The adjustable tray of claim 4, wherein the compression element is a strap.
10. The adjustable tray of claim 9, further comprising a hook and loop style fastener.
11. The adjustable tray of claim 1, wherein the armchair stop is rigidly affixed to the
chair arm.
12. The adjustable tray of claim 1, further comprising a retainer affixed to the
platform to retain objects on the platform.
13. The adjustable tray of claim 1, further comprising a cushioning material disposed
on the platform, on the elongated guide, and on the armchair stop.
14. The adjustable tray of claim 1, wherein the platform defines a perimeter shaped
generally as an oval.
15. The adjustable tray of claim 14, wherein the perimeter defines a region
converging more sharply than an oval, whereby the converging region tends to urge the
platform aside when the platform comes in contact with an obstacle.
16. The adjustable tray of claim 1, wherein the movable fastener body comprises a
threaded shank and a threaded nut fastenable on the threaded shank, the threaded nut
having no sharp edges when fastened to the shank.
17. The adjustable tray of claim 16, wherein the movable fastener further comprises a
friction device that resists rotation of the movable fastener.
18. The adjustable tray of claim 1, wherein the platform further comprises a
generally planar working surface that is approximately level with the top of the chair
arm.
19 The adjustable tray of claim 1, wherein the platform further comprises.
an arm defining the securing hole and having a first rotatable joint, wherein the
rotatable joint allows the generally planar surface to be rotated around a first axis.
20. The adjustable tray of claim 19, wherein the arm further comprises.
a second rotatable joint, wherein the second rotatable joint allows the generally
planar surface to be rotated around a second axis.
21 The adjustable tray of claim 1, wherein the arm further comprises:
flexible material affixed to the arm and positioned so that the movable fastener
passes therethrough;
whereby the flexible material resists rotation of the movable fastener and resists
rotation of the arm
22 The adjustable tray of claim 1, wherein the platform further comprises an IO
device.
23. The adjustable tray of claim 22, wherein the IO device comprises a keyboard.
24 The adjustable tray of claim 1, further comprising:
an elongated guide connected to the armchair stop, wherein the elongated guide
supports the armchair stop;
wherein the chair arm defines a first cavity adapted to movably accept the
elongated guide;
whereby the position of the armchair stop relative to the chair arm may be
adjusted by moving the elongated guide within the first cavity.
25. The adjustable tray of claim 24, wherein the chair arm further defines a second
cavity adapted to receive the armchair stop.
26. An adjustable tray for use on a chair arm having a top surface and a width
dimension, comprising:
an armchair stop;
a platform;
a first arm attached to the platform;
a second arm defining a securing hole;
a joint rotatably connecting the first arm and the second arm, wherein the
platform may be rotated by rotating the first arm relative to the second arm; and
a fastener having a body and a head, the body passing through the securing hole
into the armchair stop, wherein the second arm is rotatably connected to the armchair
stop by the movable fastener.
27. The adjustable tray of claim 26, wherein the armchair stop further comprises:
a generally horizontal surface defining a first slot, the first slot adapted to retain
the head of the movable fastener and to allow the body of the movable fastener to pass
therethrough; and
a generally vertical surface defining a second slot, the second slot connected to
the first slot and adapted to retain the head of the movable fastener and to allow the
body of the movable fastener to pass therethrough,
wherein the movable fastener passes from the first slot to the second slot and
vice-versa, allowing the platform to be positioned in an approximately horizontal plane
and an approximately vertical plane.
28 The adjustable tray of claim 27, wherein the vertical surface further defines:
a third slot in the vertical surface, the third slot connected to the second slot and
adapted to allow the body of the movable fastener to pass therethrough and adapted to
retain the head of the movable fastener; and
a hole connected to the third slot and adapted to allow the head of the movable
fastener to pass therethrough,
whereby the platform may be released from the armchair stop by passing the
movable fastener through the third slot and passing the head through the enlarged
region
29. The adjustable tray of claim 26, further comprising.
an elongated guide adjustably connected to the armchair stop, wherein the
elongated guide supports the armchair stop, the elongated guide is adjustable to fit the
adjustable tray to the width dimension of the chair arm, and the elongated guide has a
first end and a second end; and
a compression element circumvolving the chair arm and the elongated guide to
secure the elongated guide to the chair arm.
30. The adjustable tray of claim 29, wherein the armchair stop further defines a hole
adapted to receive the first end of the elongated guide, and wherein the first end of the
elongated guide is slideable within the hole to adjust the adjustable tray to fit the width
dimension of the chair arm.
31. The adjustable tray of claim 29, wherein the elongated guide further defines at
least one slit, wherein the compression element passes through the slit to secure the
elongated guide to the chair arm.
32. The adjustable tray of claim 29, wherein the elongated guide is shaped in an S-
curve to maintain the generally planar working surface approximately level with the
top of the chair arm.
33. The adjustable tray of claim 29, wherein the elongated guide further comprises a
tab connected to the second end, wherein the tab is adapted to keep the compression
element between the first end and the second end.
34. The adjustable tray of claim 29, wherein the compression element is a strap.
35. The adjustable tray of claim 34, further comprising a hook and loop style
fastener.
36. The adjustable tray of claim 26, wherein the armchair stop is rigidly affixed to the
chair arm.
37. The adjustable tray of claim 26, further comprising a retainer affixed to the
platform to retain objects on the platform.
38. The adjustable tray of claim 26, further comprising a cushioning material
disposed on the platform, on the elongated guide, and on the armchair stop.
39. The armchair tray of claim 26, wherein the platform is rotatably attached to the
first arm.
40. The armchair tray of claim 26, wherein the platform is adapted to accommodate a
mouse.
41. The adjustable tray of claim 26, wherein the platform further comprises an IO
device
42. The adjustable tray of claim 41, wherein the IO device comprises a keyboard.
43. The adjustable tray of claim 26, further comprising:
an elongated guide connected to the armchair stop, wherein the elongated guide
supports the armchair stop;
and wherein the chair arm defines a first cavity adapted to movably accept the
elongated guide;
whereby the position of the armchair stop relative to the chair arm may be
adjusted by moving the elongated guide within the first cavity.
44. The adjustable tray of claim 43, wherein the chair arm further defines a second
cavity adapted to receive the armchair stop.
45. An adjustable tray for use on a chair arm, comprising:
a rotatable platform having at least one generally planar surface, wherein the
platform defines a perimeter shaped generally as an oval and wherein the perimeter
defines a region converging more sharply than an oval, whereby the converging region
tends to urge the platform aside when the platform comes in contact with an obstacle.
46. The adjustable tray of claim 45, further comprising"
a movable fastener having body and a head; and
an armchair stop fastened to the chair arm, the armchair stop comprising:
a generally horizontal surface defining a first slot, the first slot adapted to retain
the head of the movable fastener and to allow the body of the movable fastener to pass
therethrough, and
a generally vertical surface defining a second slot, the second slot connected to
the first slot and adapted to retain the head of the movable fastener and to allow the
body of the movable fastener to pass therethrough,
wherein the movable fastener passes from the first slot to the second slot and
vice-versa, allowing the platform to be positioned in an approximately horizontal plane
and an approximately vertical plane.
47. An adjustable tray for use on a chair arm having a top surface and a width
dimension, comprising.
a platform; and
an elongated guide supporting the platform;
wherein the chair arm defines a first cavity adapted to movably accept the
elongated guide, and
whereby the position of the platform relative to the chair arm may be adjusted by
moving the elongated guide within the first cavity.
48. The adjustable tray of claim 47, further comprising:
a movable fastener having body and a head; and
an armchair stop attached to the elongated guide, the armchair stop comprising.
a generally horizontal surface defining a first slot, the first slot adapted to retain
the head of the movable fastener and to allow the body of the movable fastener to pass
therethrough; and
a generally vertical surface defining a second slot, the second slot connected to
the first slot and adapted to retain the head of the movable fastener and to allow the
body of the movable fastener to pass therethrough;
wherein the movable fastener passes from the first slot to the second slot and
vice-versa, allowing the platform to be positioned in an approximately horizontal plane
and an approximately vertical plane.
49 An adjustable tray, for use on a chair arm having a top and defining a width,
comprising:
a platform comprising:
a planar working surface having a curved perimeter, the perimeter defining a
peak wherein the peak serves to urge the platform aside when the platform contacts an
obstacle, and
a second surface offset from the plane of the first surface and defining a securing
hole;
a movable fastener,
an armchair stop having an approximately horizontal top, an approximately
vertical first side, and an approximately vertical second side; the armchair stop defining
an elongated slot in the top, the first side, and the second side, and a cavity, wherein the
platform is rotatably connected to the armchair stop by the movable fastener, and
wherein the movable fastener passes through the securing hole, through the elongated
slot, and into the cavity, allowing the movable fastener to pass along the slot to place
the platform in a horizontal plane and in a vertical plane, the armchair stop further
defining a first hole in the first side and a second hole in the second side, offset from the
first hole, a first guide comprising a first leg insertable in the first hole and a second leg
adapted to conform to the chair arm,
a second guide comprising a third leg insertable in the second hole and a fourth
leg adapted to conform to the chair arm;
a compression element capable of passing around the first and second guides
and the chair arm to secure the first and second guides to the chair arm,
whereby the first leg and third leg of the first and second guides, respectively,
are insertable into the first and second holes a distance appropriate to accommodate the
width of the chair arm, and holding the armchair stop and platform so that the working
surface is approximately level with the top of the chair arm when the first and second
guides are secured to the chair arm.
50. An adjustable tray, comprising:
platform means for supporting an input/output device;
body means for supporting the platform means in a generally horizontal and
generally vertical plane,
fastening means for fastening the platform to the body means, and
attachment means for attaching the body means to a chair arm.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/250,654 US7216930B2 (en) | 2004-08-18 | 2005-10-13 | Adjustable armchair tray |
US11/250,654 | 2005-10-13 | ||
US11/281,572 | 2005-11-16 | ||
US11/281,572 US20060108841A1 (en) | 2004-08-18 | 2005-11-16 | Adjustable armchair tray |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2007046827A2 true WO2007046827A2 (en) | 2007-04-26 |
WO2007046827A3 WO2007046827A3 (en) | 2007-09-27 |
Family
ID=37962933
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2005/043802 WO2007046827A2 (en) | 2005-10-13 | 2005-12-01 | Adjustable armchair tray |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20060108841A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007046827A2 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10219630B1 (en) | 2017-10-04 | 2019-03-05 | Lars Odgaard | End table |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10517786B1 (en) * | 2019-07-17 | 2019-12-31 | David Lue | Dental chair armrest |
USD1011356S1 (en) | 2021-05-19 | 2024-01-16 | CKnapp Sales, Inc. | Armrest mouse pad |
US11653766B1 (en) | 2021-05-19 | 2023-05-23 | CKnapp Sales, Inc. | Adjustable armrest mouse pad |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5909922A (en) * | 1998-01-29 | 1999-06-08 | Dugas; John E. | Chair arm-mounted resting surface for a computer peripheral |
US6264272B1 (en) * | 1999-07-06 | 2001-07-24 | Steven R. Jones | Apparatus for ergonomic placement of computer pointing device |
Family Cites Families (47)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US171528A (en) * | 1875-12-28 | Improvement in attaching book-supports to arm-chairs | ||
US2034835A (en) * | 1935-04-17 | 1936-03-24 | Rubino Dante | Reading easel and book rack |
US2426097A (en) * | 1944-11-20 | 1947-08-19 | Heller Phillip | Attachable tray for armchairs, bridge tables, and the like |
US2692174A (en) * | 1952-10-31 | 1954-10-19 | Herbert A Whitehead | Armchair tray table |
US2797973A (en) * | 1955-02-23 | 1957-07-02 | Anthony S Barbera | Chair tray having pivoted, spring biased, arm-engaging clamps |
US3408032A (en) * | 1967-02-13 | 1968-10-29 | Donald W. Francis | Book support device |
BE756100A (en) * | 1969-09-23 | 1971-02-15 | Roneo Cie | WRITING TABLE ADAPTABLE TO A CHAIR |
US3632162A (en) * | 1970-03-12 | 1972-01-04 | Edward J Trethaway | Chair for the handicapped |
US4575149A (en) * | 1984-02-21 | 1986-03-11 | Forestal Robert J | Attachable household service tray device for furniture |
US4730869A (en) * | 1986-08-15 | 1988-03-15 | Schumacher Larry L | Wheelchair armrest storage compartment |
US4815688A (en) * | 1987-03-09 | 1989-03-28 | Wood Charles F | Mounting for attachments to a wheelchair, a geriatric chair and the like |
US4913393A (en) * | 1987-03-09 | 1990-04-03 | Wood Charles F | Mounting for attachments to a wheelchair, a geriatric chair and the like |
JP2731861B2 (en) * | 1989-04-28 | 1998-03-25 | 株式会社コトブキ | Emergency displacement method and device for chair entry / exit base plate |
US5048428A (en) * | 1990-06-27 | 1991-09-17 | Larue Mark C | Clip-on work surface for a chair tablet |
IT224409Z2 (en) * | 1991-06-10 | 1996-04-09 | Offix Italia | STORAGE UNIT FOR OFFICE TYPE CHAIRS |
US5246240A (en) * | 1991-10-18 | 1993-09-21 | Romich Barry A | Apparatus for mounting equipment to wheelchairs |
US5234251A (en) * | 1992-05-13 | 1993-08-10 | Mts Northwest Sound, Inc. | Seat arm attachment |
US5311210A (en) * | 1992-10-15 | 1994-05-10 | Workplace Designs, Inc. | Ergonomic keyboard and operator's chair |
US5292173A (en) * | 1992-10-19 | 1994-03-08 | Lambert David E | Chair mounted computer plate |
US5320313A (en) * | 1992-10-29 | 1994-06-14 | Crowe Mark A | Pivoting joystick and keyboard support stand |
US5474272A (en) * | 1994-05-13 | 1995-12-12 | Holdit, Inc., L.L.C. | Portable cup holder with adjustable cup retainer |
US5505412A (en) * | 1994-05-27 | 1996-04-09 | Iowa Health System | Wheel chair arm board and method of making same |
US5490710A (en) * | 1994-08-01 | 1996-02-13 | Dearing; Mary K. | Swing arm chair |
US5709155A (en) * | 1995-01-12 | 1998-01-20 | Mul Acquisition Corp. Ii | Folding tray table for chairs |
CA2165504C (en) * | 1995-01-13 | 1999-09-28 | Stephen J. Bauman | Tablet assembly for a seating system |
US5593128A (en) * | 1995-02-16 | 1997-01-14 | Odom; Patricia B. | Lap supported computer mouse surface |
US5727759A (en) * | 1995-08-31 | 1998-03-17 | Christensen; Leslie Palmatier | Integrated mouse pad and wrist and arm support |
US5660432A (en) * | 1996-02-08 | 1997-08-26 | Davis; Richard H. | High chair catch attachment |
US5765911A (en) * | 1996-03-12 | 1998-06-16 | Sorenson; Thomas | Adjustable positioned system for chair-mounted tables |
US5924664A (en) * | 1997-03-12 | 1999-07-20 | Ergo View Technologies Corp. | Keyboard support mechanism |
US5848773A (en) * | 1997-04-17 | 1998-12-15 | Bourassa; David O. | Mouse pad support pedestal |
US5893607A (en) * | 1997-08-26 | 1999-04-13 | Trimnell; Ralph R. | Chair attached computer keyboard holder |
US6352303B1 (en) * | 1997-09-26 | 2002-03-05 | James Keith Hope | Arm rest mouse pad |
US6017085A (en) * | 1997-10-14 | 2000-01-25 | Lacroix; Tamara D. | Folding chair tray |
US5839713A (en) * | 1997-12-05 | 1998-11-24 | Wright; Carroll | Support for entertainment equipment |
US5887940A (en) * | 1998-04-23 | 1999-03-30 | Anderson; Richard B. | Chair attached tray assembly |
US5899526A (en) * | 1998-07-30 | 1999-05-04 | La-Z-Boy Incorporated | Tray table for health case chairs |
US6220658B1 (en) * | 1998-10-16 | 2001-04-24 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Retractable tray table |
US6059357A (en) * | 1998-11-18 | 2000-05-09 | Bernhardt, L.L.C. | Chair with adjustable table |
US6073997A (en) * | 1999-04-08 | 2000-06-13 | Koh; Tuang Hock | Foldable table for chair |
US6027165A (en) * | 1999-06-15 | 2000-02-22 | Adkins; Avis V. | Table attachment for arm chairs |
US6314891B1 (en) * | 1999-06-16 | 2001-11-13 | Michael Larson | Portable picnic table for tailgate parties |
US6273382B1 (en) * | 1999-09-30 | 2001-08-14 | Gregory L. Pemberton | Adjustable tilt-down keyboard support device |
US6773060B2 (en) * | 2000-04-26 | 2004-08-10 | Michael L. Sher | Arm chair mounted keyboard support apparatus |
US6578914B2 (en) * | 2001-03-19 | 2003-06-17 | Albert Artsvelyan | Adjustable armrest cushion |
US6827405B1 (en) * | 2003-09-12 | 2004-12-07 | Pierre Roberts | Portable armrest for a chair |
US6935683B1 (en) * | 2004-04-24 | 2005-08-30 | Ray H. Brown | Chair arm mounted computer accessory support assembly |
-
2005
- 2005-11-16 US US11/281,572 patent/US20060108841A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2005-12-01 WO PCT/US2005/043802 patent/WO2007046827A2/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5909922A (en) * | 1998-01-29 | 1999-06-08 | Dugas; John E. | Chair arm-mounted resting surface for a computer peripheral |
US6264272B1 (en) * | 1999-07-06 | 2001-07-24 | Steven R. Jones | Apparatus for ergonomic placement of computer pointing device |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10219630B1 (en) | 2017-10-04 | 2019-03-05 | Lars Odgaard | End table |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20060108841A1 (en) | 2006-05-25 |
WO2007046827A3 (en) | 2007-09-27 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7862111B2 (en) | Adjustable work surface | |
US7216930B2 (en) | Adjustable armchair tray | |
US5158256A (en) | Keyboard accessory | |
US6374751B1 (en) | Portable activity surface | |
US6357703B1 (en) | Computer mouse and arm rest | |
US6098952A (en) | Laptop computer support | |
US5058840A (en) | Apparatus and method for reducing repetitive or maintained stress injuries | |
US5901934A (en) | Retractable surface apparatus | |
US7131688B2 (en) | Adjustable armchair mouse tray | |
US20090002932A1 (en) | Portable inclinating desk for notebook computers | |
US8079553B1 (en) | Keyboard supporting tray and arm rests for conventional open arm office chairs | |
US7367618B2 (en) | Wireless mouse and keyboard chair mount apparatus | |
US5201485A (en) | Apparatus and method for reducing repetitive or maintained stress injuries | |
US5022706A (en) | Adjustable keyboard chair | |
WO1998028222A1 (en) | Computer mouse operation pad and forearm support assembly | |
US9986821B2 (en) | Ergonomic keyboard and peripheral positioning system | |
US20020017595A1 (en) | Ergonomic laptop computer support assembly | |
US7360829B2 (en) | Chair-mountable table | |
US20090108641A1 (en) | Adjustable armchair tray | |
US20060108841A1 (en) | Adjustable armchair tray | |
US7159827B2 (en) | Arm support with mouse pad | |
US20060103180A1 (en) | Chair arm with stowable table and mouse pad | |
US20170367508A1 (en) | Computer Pillow Stand | |
US9072377B2 (en) | Apparatus, system, and method for supporting computer peripherals on a chair | |
US20070176066A1 (en) | Adjustable work surface |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
121 | Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application | ||
NENP | Non-entry into the national phase |
Ref country code: DE |
|
122 | Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase |
Ref document number: 05852887 Country of ref document: EP Kind code of ref document: A2 |