Patent ID: 6068299
Filing Date: 2000-05-30
Classification: B42D

Abstract:
A portable device for holding a book in an open position, the book having a spine, the portable device comprising:a plate having a first edge, a second edge, a top end, a bottom end, a front face and a back side, the top end being opposite the bottom end, the top end having a midpoint;two clips, each clip having a first end being mounted at a pivot point located substantially at the midpoint of the top end of the plate, the pivot point of each clip being substantially aligned with the spine of the book, the clips having an operational position and a nonoperational position, the clips being substantially flush with the front face of the plate when the clips are in the nonoperational position, each pivot point including a spring for urging the clips against the book in the operational position and substantially flush with the front face of the plate in the nonoperational position;a first support leg having a functional position and a nonfunctional position, the first support leg is pivotally mounted to the bottom end of the plate at the first edge, the first support leg being substantially flush with the front face and the back side of the plate when the first support leg is in the nonfunctional position; anda second support leg having a functional position and a nonfunctional position, the second support leg is pivotally mounted to the bottom end of the plate at the second edge, the second support leg being substantially flush with both the front face and the back side of the plate when the first support leg is in the nonfunctional position;wherein the first support leg and the second support leg support the book on a surface in a position where the front face of the plate is at an angle to the surface upon which the device is located;wherein the positioning of all the elements allows for the portability of the device.