Computer component mounting device for a chair

A computer component mounting apparatus configured to be coupled to a chair and to support a computer component, such as a laptop, a computer monitor, or a keyboard. The computer component mounting apparatus includes a mounting post defining a swing axis, an elbow including a vertical leg and a horizontal leg, a swing arm assembly, and a deck tilt mount. The vertical leg of the elbow is rotatably coupled to the mounting post about the swing axis. The swing arm assembly is rotatably coupled to the horizontal leg of the elbow about a tilt axis. The deck tilt mount is rotatably coupled to the swing arm assembly about a pitch axis. A keyboard support, a computer monitor support assembly, or a laptop table may be coupled to the deck tilt mount.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to computer component mounting devices and, more particularly, to articulable computer component mounting devices for reclinable chairs.

BACKGROUND

Reclinable chairs are commonly used for providing a more comfortable or ergonomic position to the back and/or legs of a user while the user is seated. Typically, reclinable chairs are used in a home, but may also be used in an office or other location. For example, during rehabilitation, a worker may be able to work more efficiently in a reclined position. As such, a user of a reclinable chair may wish to use a computer (e.g., a laptop computer (“laptop”)) or a computer component (e.g., a computer monitor, a keyboard, or a mouse) while seated in the chair. However, it may be difficult or uncomfortable to use the computer and/or the computer component while seated in a typical reclinable chair because a typical reclinable chair does not have a table for supporting the computer and/or the computer component, and, therefore, a user would likely place the computer component in his or her lap or precariously balance the computer component on an armrest of the chair.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to computer component mounting apparatus configured to support a computer component, such as a computer monitor, a keyboard, a mouse, and/or a laptop. In one embodiment, the computer component mounting apparatus includes a mounting post defining a swing axis configured to be coupled to a chair. The computer component mounting apparatus also includes an elbow having a vertical leg and a horizontal leg. The vertical leg is rotatably coupled to the mounting post about the swing axis. The horizontal leg of the elbow defines a tilt axis. The computer component mounting apparatus further includes a swing arm assembly having a proximal end rotatably connected to the horizontal leg of the elbow about the tilt axis. The computer component mounting apparatus also includes a deck tilt mount rotatably coupled to a distal end of the swing arm assembly about a pitch axis and a keyboard support coupled to the deck tilt mount. The keyboard support includes a base plate and a support plate slidably coupled to the base plate. The base plate may be fixedly coupled to the deck tilt mount. The support plate may define a pair of opposing channels in which the base plate is slidably received. The keyboard support may include at least one hook or loop-type fastener coupled to an upper surface of the support plate configured to detachably engage at least one corresponding loop or hook-type fastener coupled to a keyboard. The swing arm assembly may include a series of segments hingedly coupled to each other. The computer component mounting apparatus may also include a mounting bracket coupled to the mounting post and configured to couple the computer component mounting apparatus to the chair. An upper end of the mounting post may include a recess configured to connectedly receive at least one utility device. The computer component mounting apparatus may also include at least one spacer ring on the mounting post and below the elbow to adjust a height of the keyboard support.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer component mounting apparatus includes a mounting post defining a swing axis configured to be coupled to a chair. The computer component mounting apparatus also includes an elbow having a vertical leg and a horizontal leg. The vertical leg is rotatably coupled to the mounting post about the swing axis. The horizontal leg of the elbow defines a tilt axis. The computer component mounting apparatus further includes a swing arm assembly having a proximal end rotatably connected to the horizontal leg of the elbow about the tilt axis. The computer component mounting apparatus also includes a deck tilt mount rotatably coupled to a distal end of the swing arm assembly about a pitch axis and a computer monitor support assembly coupled to the deck tilt mount. The computer monitor support assembly includes a monitor support bracket coupled to a base support bracket. The computer monitor support assembly may include a splice bracket coupled to the monitor support bracket and the base support bracket. The monitor support bracket may be configured to slide relative to the splice bracket to adjust a height of the monitor support bracket. The monitor support bracket may include a series of openings configured to receive a series of fasteners coupling a computer monitor to the monitor support bracket. The swing arm assembly may include a series of segments hingedly coupled to each other. The computer component mounting apparatus may also include a mounting bracket coupled to the mounting post and configured to couple the computer component mounting apparatus to the chair. The computer component mounting apparatus may also include at least one spacer ring on the mounting post and below the elbow to adjust a height of the computer monitor support assembly.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer component mounting apparatus includes a mounting post defining a swing axis configured to be coupled to a chair. The computer component mounting apparatus also includes an elbow having a vertical leg and a horizontal leg. The vertical leg is rotatably coupled to the mounting post about the swing axis. The horizontal leg of the elbow defines a tilt axis. The computer component mounting apparatus further includes an articulable swing arm assembly. A proximal end of the articulable swing arm assembly is rotatably connected to the horizontal leg of the elbow about the tilt axis. The articulable swing arm assembly includes a series of segments hingedly coupled to each other. The computer component mounting apparatus also includes a deck tilt mount rotatably coupled to a distal end of the articulable swing arm assembly about a pitch axis. The deck tilt mount is configured to support a computer component. The articulable swing arm assembly may include any desired number of segments, such as from two to ten segment. The articulable swing arm assembly may include four segments and the first segment of the articulable swing arm assembly may include an angled tube and each of the second, third, and fourth segments may include a straight tube. The computer component mounting apparatus also include a keyboard support, a computer monitor support assembly, or a laptop table coupled to the deck tilt mount. The computer component mounting apparatus may also include a knob set screw coupled to the vertical leg of the elbow. Adjustment of the knob set screw increases or decreases the force required to rotate the elbow about the swing axis. The computer component mounting apparatus may also include an outer circumferential notch in the proximal end of the articulable swing arm assembly and a leveling set screw coupled to the horizontal leg of the elbow and configured to engage the outer circumferential notch in the articulable swing arm assembly to set a level of the articulable swing arm assembly about the tilt axis. The computer component mounting apparatus may also include at least one set screw coupled to the deck tilt mount. Adjustment of the at least one set screw increases or decreases the force necessary to rotate the deck tilt mount about the pitch axis.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, embodiments of the present invention may be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments illustrated and set forth herein. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided by way of example for understanding of the invention and to convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

With reference toFIG. 1, a laptop table assembly1is connected to an armrest support126of a recliner chair125.FIGS. 5,6,7,8, and9illustrate an embodiment of the laptop table assembly1with multiple components that are rotatably or hingedly connected to each other. The laptop table assembly1comprises a laptop table103(FIGS. 5,6,7,8, and9) configured to adjustably mount on a hinge75(FIGS. 6,8, and9), a swing arm46(FIGS. 5,6,7,8, and9) configured to rotatably attach to the hinge75and a horizontal leg37of an elbow23(FIGS. 5,6,7,8, and9), and a mounting post8(FIG. 9) configured to rotatably attach to a vertical leg36of the elbow23and fixedly attach to a mounting bracket2(FIGS. 5,6,7,8, and9), which in turn is configured to attach to the recliner chair125.

As shown inFIGS. 10A and 10B, the mounting bracket2contains two flat plate segments3,4disposed at an angle relative to each other. The first flat plate segment3contains a pattern of holes5configured to align with preexisting holes (not shown) in the armrest support126of the recliner chair125. The mounting bracket2is secured to the recliner chair125by any suitable means, for example, a plurality of screws (not shown) extending through the holes5in the mounting bracket2and into the preexisting holes in the armrest support126. With continued reference toFIG. 10, the second flat plate segment4contains a hole6for attaching a spacer plate7and the mounting post8to the mounting bracket2. The second flat plate segment4also contains a pin hole9adjacent to the hole6for fixing the angular position of the spacer plate7relative to the mounting bracket2.

As shown inFIGS. 6,7,9,11A, and11B, the spacer plate7is provided to mount the mounting post8to the mounting bracket2. The spacer plate7is a flat disk containing an axial smooth bore10configured to align with the hole6in the mounting bracket2. The spacer plate7also contains two off-axis pin holes11,12adjacent to the hole6, which are configured to prevent the spacer plate7and mounting post8, respectively, from rotating about their longitudinal axes. As illustrated inFIG. 9, the angular position of the spacer plate7is fixed by aligning an off-axis pin hole11in the spacer plate7with the pin hole9in the mounting bracket2and by inserting any suitable mechanical fastener, such as an anti-rotation pin133, through the off-axis pin hole11in the spacer plate7and the pin hole9in the mounting bracket2. In an alternative embodiment, the angular position of the spacer plate7is fixed to the mounting bracket2by a countersunk head rivet (not shown) extending through the off-axis pin hole11and the pin hole9.

Referring now toFIGS. 12A,12B,12C, and12D, a mounting post8comprises a rod13having an outer diameter127that is largest in a central portion14of the mounting post8and outer diameters128,129that are smaller at upper and lower portions15,16, respectively, of the mounting post8. The upper and lower portions15,16of the mounting post8each contain two outer circumferential notches17,18,19, and20. As illustrated inFIG. 12D, moldings21,22are attached to the upper and lower portions15,16, respectively, of the mounting post8and extend into the outer circumferential notches17,18,19, and20. The moldings21,22are applied to the upper and lower portions15,16of the mounting post8by any suitable means, such as dipping, spraying, press fitting, or bonding. The outer circumferential notches17,18,19,20prevent the moldings21,22from rotating about the longitudinal axis of the mounting post8and thereby disengaging the mounting post8. The moldings21,22advantageously protect the mounting post8and the elbow23, described in detail below, against premature wear which would otherwise result from the rotational contact between the elbow23and the mounting post8.

With continued reference toFIGS. 12B,12C, and12D, a bottom surface24of the mounting post8contains an internally threaded blind bore25and a top surface26of the mounting post8contains a smooth blind bore27. With additional reference toFIG. 9, an externally threaded shaft28connects the mounting post8to the spacer plate7and the mounting bracket2. The externally threaded shaft28engages the internally threaded blind bore25and protrudes downward from the bottom surface24of the mounting post8. The externally threaded shaft28is configured to extend through the smooth bore10in the spacer plate7and the hole6in the mounting bracket2. The length of the portion of the externally threaded shaft28extending past the bottom surface24of the mounting post8sufficiently exceeds the combined thickness of the spacer plate7and the mounting bracket2to permit a self-locking hex nut29to engage the externally threaded shaft28and secure the mounting post8to the spacer plate7and the mounting bracket2. In an alternative embodiment, a hex bolt having a grip length substantially equal to the combined thickness of the spacer plate7and the mounting bracket2may be used instead of the externally threaded shaft28and the self-locking hex nut29.

Referring again toFIGS. 9,12B,12C, and12D, the bottom surface24of the mounting post8contains an off-axis blind hole30. The off-axis blind hole30is configured to align with the other off-axis pin hole12in the spacer place7, and any suitable attachment member, such as an anti-rotation pin31, is inserted into the off-axis blind hole30in the mounting post8and the off-axis pin hole12in the spacer plate7in order to prevent the mounting post8from rotating about its longitudinal axis. Otherwise, such longitudinal rotation of the mounting post8would cause the hex nut29securing the mounting post8and the spacer plate7to the mounting bracket2to disengage the externally threaded shaft28.

The smooth blind bore27in the top surface26of the mounting post8facilitates the attachment of various utility devices (not shown) such as a lamp, a secondary monitor, or a glass holder. As shown inFIGS. 6,7, and9, when a device is not attached to the mounting post8, a top cap32may be attached to the mounting post8by press-fitting the cylindrical protrusion33on the top cap32into the smooth blind bore27.

As depicted inFIGS. 14A and 14C, a plurality of spacer rings34are configured to slide onto the mounting post8and rest on top of the spacer plate7. The spacer rings34adjust the overall height of the laptop table assembly1and thus increase the usable space between the recliner chair125and the laptop table assembly1. Accordingly, a user selects the appropriate number of spacer rings34to accommodate the user's specific body type. In a preferred embodiment, three spacer rings34are provided and each spacer ring34is approximately 0.60 inches tall. In alternative embodiments, the number of spacer rings34and the height of each spacer ring34may vary to provide the user more or less refined control over the overall height of the laptop table assembly1.

As shown inFIGS. 1,5,6,7,8,9, the elbow23is provided to rotatably attach a swing arm assembly35to the mounting post8about a swing axis136(FIG. 2A). The elbow23comprises the vertical leg36and the horizontal leg37. The vertical leg36is a frustum with a cylindrical opening38(FIG. 15A). The cylindrical opening38of the vertical leg36is configured to slide onto the outer surface of the mounting post8until a lower surface39of the vertical leg36rests on top of the spacer rings34, if the user selected any, or on top of the spacer plate7if the user elected not to use any spacer rings34. The vertical leg36permits the laptop table assembly1to rotate about the swing axis136extending through the centerline of the mounting post8and thereby swing out of the user's way for ingress and egress from the recliner chair or into the desired position for working with a laptop placed on the laptop table103, as illustrated inFIG. 2A.

As illustrated inFIGS. 5,6, and15A, the vertical leg36of the elbow23also contains a narrow vertical slit40spanning the entire length of the vertical leg36. The slit40permits the vertical leg36to circumferentially expand and contract around the mounting post8, which decreases or increases the force necessary to swing the laptop table assembly1about the mounting post8. The vertical leg36also contains a recessed opening41and an internally threaded bore hole42, on opposite sides of the slit40, which are configured to receive a threaded shaft43of a knob set screw44. When the threaded shaft43of the knob set screw44is fully inserted into the recessed opening41, the threaded shaft43orthogonally spans the slit40and engages the internally threaded bore hole42. Adjusting the knob set screw44in the clockwise direction decreases the width of the slit40and thereby causes the vertical leg36to circumferentially contract around the mounting post8. In contrast, adjusting the knob set screw44in the counterclockwise direction increases the width of the slit40and thereby causes the vertical leg36to circumferentially expand around the mounting post8. Accordingly, as illustrated inFIG. 2B, the user adjusts the knob set screw44in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction until the user achieves a desired amount of force necessary to swing the laptop table assembly1about the swing axis136. In an alternative embodiment, the vertical leg36of the elbow23may contain one or more vertical notches (not shown) radially disposed on an outer surface of the vertical leg36, which are configured to reduce the force necessary to contract the vertical leg36about the mounting post8.

As illustrated inFIG. 14B, any unused spacer rings34may be stored on top of the vertical leg36of the elbow23by sliding the unused spacer rings34onto the mounting post8after the elbow23has been installed. The top cap32secured to the smooth blind bore27of the mounting post8ensures that the unused spacer rings34do not inadvertently disengage the mounting post8.

Referring now toFIGS. 5,7,8, and15C, the horizontal leg37of the elbow23comprises a cylindrical opening45configured to receive the proximal end of the swing arm assembly35. As shown inFIGS. 16A and 16B, the swing arm assembly35comprises the tubular swing arm46and an attachment member47. The swing arm46is an angular tube formed from any suitable material, such as aluminum, steel, or carbon fiber-reinforced polymer. In an exemplary embodiment, the swing arm46has a seventy-five degree bend. The distal end of attachment member47has a circumferential recess48that is press fit into the proximal end of the tubular swing arm46and is secured by any suitable means, such as welding.

The proximal end of the attachment member47, which extends into the cylindrical opening45in the horizontal leg37of the elbow23, contains an outer circumferential notch49which permits the user to adjust the level of the laptop table assembly1, as depicted inFIG. 3A. The level of the laptop table assembly1is adjustable to permit a user to compensate for the weight of an object, such as a laptop, placed on the laptop table103which tends to deflect the laptop table assembly1downward. Once the appropriate leveling angle is achieved, the user tightens a leveling set screw130to set the level of the swing arm assembly35, as illustrated inFIG. 3B. Adjusting the leveling set screw130in the clockwise direction causes a threaded shaft (not shown) of the leveling set screw130to engage the outer circumferential notch49and thereby set the level of the laptop table assembly1.

As a safety feature, however, even when the leveling set screw130is engaged with the outer circumferential notch49, the laptop table assembly1is adapted to tilt past the set position in order to prevent pinning the user's legs between the recliner chair125and the laptop table assembly1if the recliner chair125is inadvertently reclined and the user's legs are forced upwards into the laptop table assembly1. In fact, when the threaded shaft of the leveling set screw130is extended into the outer circumferential notch49, the laptop table assembly1is configured to tilt to an angle corresponding to a span131of the outer circumferential notch49. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer circumferential notch49spans approximately thirty degrees, which permits the laptop table assembly1to rotate approximately thirty degrees about the longitudinal axis of the horizontal leg37of the elbow23. In an alternative embodiment, the outer circumferential notch49may span substantially more than thirty degrees, such as two hundred seventy degrees, in order to permit the laptop table assembly1to rotate into a stored configuration (not shown).

Additionally, as depicted inFIGS. 5,7,8,15A, and15B, the horizontal leg37of the elbow23contains a boss50with an axial bore51configured to receive the threaded shaft of the swivel set screw130. In an alternative embodiment, a spacer (not shown) may be provided instead of incorporating a boss50into the horizontal leg37of the elbow23.

As shown inFIGS. 6,8, and9, two hinge blades54,55are configured to connect the distal end of the swing arm46to the proximal end of the hinge75which permits the user to swivel (FIG. 4) the laptop table assembly1about a swivel axis135(FIG. 9). As shown inFIG. 18, the hinge blades54,55are flat plates with a pivot hole56and a rounded edge57on the distal end. The, proximal end of the hinge blades54,55contain a mounting hole58and two pin holes59,60on either side of the mounting hole58.

Referring now toFIG. 17A, the proximal ends of the hinge blades54,55are secured to the distal end of the swing arm46by an upper hinge blade holder61, a central hinge blade holder62, and a lower hinge blade holder63. The upper and lower hinge blade holders61,63are located between the outer wall51of the swing arm46and the upper and lower hinge blades54,55, respectfully. The upper and lower hinge blade holders61,63are configured to engage an arcuate segment of an interior portion64of the distal end of the swing arm46. The upper and lower hinge blade holders61,63contain a series of longitudinal ridges65disposed on an outer surface66of the upper and lower hinge blade holders61,63to facilitate engagement with the swing arm46. The upper and lower hinge blade holders61,63also contain a cylindrical post67configured to engage the mounting holes58in the proximal end of the hinge blades54,55and thereby ensure the upper hinge blade54is aligned above the lower hinge blade55. Additionally, as shown inFIGS. 8,9,17B, and18, the upper and lower hinge blade holders61,63contain two through holes68,69configured to align with two through holes52,53located in the outer wall51of the distal end of the swing arm46and the two pin holes59,60located in the proximal end of the hinge blades54,55.

With continued reference toFIG. 17A, the central hinge blade holder62is located between the upper and lower hinge blades54,55. Exterior portions of the central hinge blade holder62are configured to engage arcuate segments of the interior portion64of the distal end of the swing arm46. The central hinge blade holder62has a central bore70configured to accept the cylindrical posts67on the upper and lower hinge blade holders61,63. Additionally, as shown inFIG. 17C, the central hinge blade holder62contains two through holes71,72configured to align with the two through holes68,69in the upper and lower hinge blade holders61,63, the two through holes52,53located in the outer wall51of the distal end of the swing arm46, and the two pin holes59,60located on the proximal ends of the hinge blades54,55. Accordingly, the proximal ends of the hinge blades54,55are attached to the distal end of the swing arm46by two pins73,74extending through holes52,53in the swing arm46, holes68,69in the upper hinge blade holder61, holes59,60in the upper hinge blade54, holes71,72in the central hinge blade holder62, holes59,60in the lower hinge blade55, and holes68,69in the lower hinge blade holder63. The thickness of the central hinge blade holder62is substantially the same as the distance between two channels76,77in the hinge75in order to ensure that the distance between the upper and lower hinge blades54,55remains substantially constant between the distal ends and the proximal ends of the upper and lower hinge blades54,55.

As depicted inFIGS. 19A,19B, and19C, the hinge75comprises a cylindrical rod78having an outer diameter79that is larger at its proximal end. The distal end of the hinge75has an outer diameter80substantially equal to an inner diameter82of a deck arm81in order to facilitate a press fit connection between the distal end of the hinge75and the deck arm81, shown inFIGS. 20A,20B, and20C. Moreover, the distal end of the hinge75is secured to the deck arm81with two pins83,84extending through holes85,86in the proximal end of the deck arm81and holes87,88in the distal end of the hinge75. The proximal end of the hinge75contains the two channels76,77configured to receive the distal ends of the hinge blades54,55. A through hole89in the hinge75aligns with the pivot holes56in the hinge blades54,55. The hinge75is rotatably secured to the hinge blades54,55with a bushing90and a fastener91. The rounded edges57on the hinge blades54,55permit the hinge75to swivel about the swivel axis135(FIG. 4), which extends through the pivot holes56in the hinge blades54,55and the through hole89in the hinge. Adjustment of the fastener91increases or decreases the amount of force required to swivel the laptop table assembly1about the swivel axis135.

As illustrated inFIGS. 20A,20B, and20C, the deck arm81comprises a cylindrical tube92with the two through holes85,86in its proximal end for securing the hinge75to the deck arm81. The deck arm81also contains four ovaloid openings93,94,95,96which permit the user to control the pitch of the laptop table103by rotating the laptop table103about a pitch axis134, which extends through the centerline of the deck arm81, as depicted inFIGS. 4 and 9. Two of the ovaloid openings93,94are located on the forward portion of the deck arm81and the two other ovaloid openings95,96are located on the rear portion of the deck arm81and are aligned with the two ovaloid openings93,94on the forward portion of the deck arm81.

Furthermore, as shown inFIGS. 6,8,21A, and21B, a button head arm cap97is provided to seal off the distal end of the deck arm81. The button head arm cap97contains a cylindrical protrusion98on the proximal end of the button head arm cap97that is configured for a press fit connection with the inner portion82of the deck arm81. Additionally, the button head arm cap97is secured to the deck arm81by a fastener132that extends through a hole99in the distal end of the deck arm81that is configured to align with a hole100in cylindrical protrusion98formed on the button head arm cap97. In one exemplary embodiment, the button head arm cap97is formed from any suitable polymer. In an alternative embodiment, the distal end of the deck arm81may be sealed off by a circular plate (not shown) welded to the cylindrical tube92.

Referring now toFIGS. 22A,22B, and22C, a deck tilt mount101has a base member102for attaching the laptop table103to the deck tilt mount101and an open arcuate channel104configured to receive the deck arm81. The open arcuate channel104is formed by two gripping arms105,106extending downward from the base member102. The two gripping arms105,106contain two through holes107,108configured to align with the ovaloid openings93,94,95,96in the deck arm81. Two fasteners109,110extend through the through holes107,108in the gripping arms105,106and the ovaloid openings93,94,95,96in the deck arm81to rotatably secure the deck aim81to the deck tilt mount101. Adjusting the fasteners109,110causes the gripping arms105,106to expand or contract around the deck arm81, thereby decreasing or increasing the force necessary to pitch the laptop table103about the pitch axis134extending through the centerline of the deck arm81. The user pitches the laptop table103to achieve the appropriate working angle when the chair is in either a reclined or unreclined position. The four ovaloid openings93,94,95,96permit the laptop table103to pitch to an extent corresponding to the circumferential span of the ovaloid openings93,94,95, and96. In an exemplary embodiment, the ovaloid openings93,94,95, and96span approximately fifty degrees, which permits the laptop table103to pitch approximately fifty degrees. In an alternative embodiment, the ovaloid openings93,94,95, and96may span a different distance, for example, ranging between about twenty degrees and one-hundred twenty degrees, in order to permit more or less control of the angular position of the laptop table103by the user.

The base member102of the deck tilt mount101contains four countersunk holes111aligned with four blind holes112located in the lower surface113of the laptop table103(FIG. 23A). The deck tilt mount101is secured to the laptop table103with four countersunk screws114extending through the four countersunk holes111in the base member102and into the four blind holes112in the laptop table103.100741As illustrated inFIGS. 5,6,7,8,24A,24B, and24C, a pair of edge stop assemblies115are provided to prevent the user's laptop from sliding off the laptop table103when the laptop table103is pitched toward the user. Each edge stop assembly115comprises a rubber bumper116secured to a flexible clip member117. The flexible clip member117contains two prongs118configured to be inserted into a series of blind holes119disposed within a channel120formed on the rearward-facing surface121of the laptop table103. The user installs the two edge stop assemblies115by elastically compressing the prongs118and inserting the prongs118into the appropriate pair of blind holes119selected by the user. The user selects the appropriate positioning of the edge stop assemblies115so as not to obstruct portions of the laptop requiring user access, such as an optical drive and USB ports. After the user installs the edge stop assemblies115, the user places a laptop on the laptop table103and abuts at least a portion of the laptop to the edge stop assemblies115in order to secure the positioning of the laptop. It is contemplated that edge stop assemblies115with various heights may be provided to accommodate laptops with different thicknesses and configurations.

As shown inFIGS. 5 and 7, a series of cable management clips122attached to the swing arm46are provided to safely and conveniently position computer cables away from the laptop table103. The cable management clips122contain an open annulus123for detachably attaching the cable management clips122to the outer wall51of the swing arm46and a small open ring124configured to accept the computer cables. In a preferred embodiment, two cable management clips122are provided. In an alternative embodiment, straps (not shown), such as fabric hook and loop fasteners or ratcheting cable ties, may be provided instead of, or in addition to, the cable management clips122in order to safely and conveniently secure the computer cables. It is contemplated that the number of straps or cable management clips122provided may vary to suit the individual needs of the user.

With reference toFIG. 25, a method200of using a laptop table assembly1is shown. In one embodiment, the method200includes a task210of positioning the laptop table assembly1. In another embodiment, the method200includes a task220of swinging the laptop table103to permit, for example, the user to enter into or exit from the chair125or to permit the user to achieve a desired position of the laptop table103. In a further embodiment, the method200includes a task230of swiveling the laptop table103. Moreover, in another embodiment, the method200includes a task240of pitching the laptop table103to achieve, for example, a desired viewing angle of a laptop screen placed on the laptop table103. The method200includes, in one embodiment, a task250of leveling the laptop table103to compensate for the weight of a laptop or any other item placed on the laptop table103. In another embodiment, the method200includes a task260of reclining the chair125. Further, in one embodiment, the method200includes one or more of the following tasks, which include a task270of placing a laptop on the laptop table103, a task280of attaching at least one edge stop assembly115to the laptop table103, and a task290of abutting a laptop to at least one edge stop assembly115. In a further embodiment, the method200includes a task300of attaching a utility device, such as a secondary monitor, a lamp, or a glass holder to the mounting post8. In another embodiment, the method200includes a task310of securing a laptop cable to at least one cable management clip122.

While in one embodiment, the method200of using a laptop table assembly1may include each of the tasks described above and shown inFIG. 25, in other embodiments of the present invention, in a method of using a laptop table assembly1, one or more of the tasks described above and shown inFIG. 25may be absent and/or additional tasks may be performed.

For example, the task240of pitching the laptop table103may be performed without also performing the task260of reclining the chair125. Further, in the method200of using the laptop table assembly1according to one embodiment, the tasks may be performed in the order depicted inFIG. 25. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and, in a method of using a laptop table assembly1according to other embodiments of the present invention, the tasks described above and shown inFIG. 25may be performed in any other suitable sequence. For example, in one embodiment, the task260of reclining the chair125is performed before the task240of pitching the laptop table103, while in an alternative embodiment, the task240of pitching the laptop table103is performed before the task260of reclining the chair125.

With reference now toFIGS. 26A-26C, a computer component mounting device400according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The computer component mounting device400is configured to be coupled to an existing chair401(e.g., a reclining chair). In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 26A and 26C, the computer component mounting device400is coupled to a right-side of the chair401. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 26B, the computer component mounting device400is coupled to a left-side of the chair401. Additionally, the computer component mounting device400is configured to support a variety of different computer components. For instance, in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 26A, the computer component mounting device400coupled to the right-side of the chair401is supporting a keyboard402. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 26B, the computer component mounting device400coupled to the left-side of the chair401is supporting a computer monitor403. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 26C, the computer component mounting device400is supporting stationery568and writing instruments569(e.g., pens and/or pencils). As described in detail below, the computer component mounting device400is configured to adjustably support the computer component or other object such that a user may adjust the computer component or other object into a desired position (e.g., an ergonomic position depending on the size of the user, the seating position of the user in the chair401, and/or the position of the chair401).

With continued reference to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 26A-26C, the computer component mounting device400includes a mounting bracket404configured to couple the computer component mounting device400to a component of the chair401(e.g., an armrest support405of the chair401), a mounting post406coupled to the mounting bracket404, an elbow407rotatably coupled to the mounting post406, an articulable swing arm assembly408rotatably coupled to the elbow407, and a deck tilt mount409coupled to the articulable swing arm assembly408. The deck tilt mount409is configured to be coupled to and support a keyboard support tray410(FIG. 26A), a computer monitor support411(FIG. 26B), a support deck assembly570(FIG. 26C), or the laptop table103described above with reference toFIG. 23A. The computer component (e.g., a computer monitor403, a keyboard402, or a laptop) or other object (e.g., stationery and writing instruments) supported by the computer component mounting device400is configured to be swung (arrow412) toward and away from a user seated in the chair401by rotating the articulable swing arm assembly408about a swing axis413. The computer component supported by the computer component mounting device400is also configured to be leveled (arrow414) by rotating the articulable swing arm assembly408about a leveling or tilt axis415. Further, the computer component is configured to be pitched (arrow416) by rotating the deck tilt mount409about a pitch axis417. The position of the computer component or other object supported by the computer component mounting device400is also configured to be controlled by rotating (arrows418,419,420) one or more segments of the articulable swing arm assembly408about axes421,422,423, respectively, defined between the segments.

With reference now to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 27, the mounting bracket404, which is configured to couple the computer component mounting device300to the chair301, includes two flat plate segments424,425angled relative to each other. In an alternate embodiment, the mounting bracket404may be a substantially flat plate. The first plate segment424also defines a plurality of holes426configured to receive fasteners coupling the mounting bracket404to the armrest support405of the chair401(i.e., fasteners are configured to extend through the holes426in the mounting bracket404and into the armrest support405of the chair401). In one embodiment, the holes426in the mounting bracket404may be arranged such that the holes426are aligned with preexisting holes in the armrest support405. In another embodiment, holes may be drilled into the armrest support405to match the arrangement of the holes426in the mounting bracket404. The mounting bracket404may define any desired number of holes426, such as, for instance, from two to ten holes, and the holes426may be arranged in any desired configuration suitable for the configuration of the armrest support405of the chair401and the desired strength of the connection between the computer component mounting device400, and the chair401.

With continued reference to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 27, the second flat plate segment425of the mounting bracket404defines a relatively larger opening427(e.g., a hole) configured to attach a spacer plate428and the mounting post406to the mounting bracket404. The second flat plate segment425also defines a relatively smaller opening429(e.g., a pin hole) adjacent to the larger opening427. The relatively smaller opening429is configured to fix the angular position of the spacer plate428relative to the mounting bracket404. In one embodiment, the mounting bracket404may be the same or similar to the mounting bracket2described above with reference toFIGS. 10A and 10B.

Still referring to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 28, the spacer plate428is configured to facilitate attachment of the mounting post406to the mounting bracket404. Although in the illustrated embodiment the mounting post406and the spacer plate428are separate components, in one or more alternate embodiments, the spacer plate428may be integrally formed with the mounting post406(i.e., the mounting post406and the spacer plate428may be a single, unitary component). Additionally, in one embodiment, the computer component mounting device400may be provided without the spacer plate428. In the illustrated embodiment, the spacer plate428is a cylindrical disk defining an axial opening430(e.g., smooth bore or an internally threaded hole) configured to align with the larger opening427in the mounting bracket404. The spacer plate428also defines two off-axis pin holes431,432adjacent to the axial opening430. The two off-axis pin holes431,432are configured to prevent the mounting post406and the spacer plate428, respectively, from rotating about their longitudinal axes. The angular position of the spacer plate428is fixed by aligning one of the off-axis pin holes432in the spacer plate428with the pin hole429in the mounting bracket404and inserting any suitable fastener433, such as an anti-rotation pin, through the off-axis pin hole432in the spacer plate428and into the pin hole429in the mounting bracket404.

Still referring toFIG. 27, the mounting post406is a cylindrical rod. A longitudinal axis of the mounting post406defines the swing axis412about which the elbow407, the articulable swing arm assembly408, the deck tilt mount409, and the keyboard support tray410(FIG. 26A), the computer monitor support411(FIG. 26B), or the laptop table103(FIG. 23A) are configured to swing (arrow412inFIGS. 26A and 26B). In one embodiment, an outer surface434of the mounting post406may include a protective coating435configured to protect the mounting post406against premature wear which might otherwise result from the rotational contact between the elbow407and the mounting post406(e.g., when the elbow407, the articulable swing arm assembly408, and the deck tilt mount409are rotated (arrow413) about the longitudinal axis of the mounting post406). Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, a lower end436of the mounting post406includes an axial internally threaded blind bore437and an off-axis smooth blind bore438. The off-axis smooth blind bore438in the lower end436of the mounting post406is configured to align with the other off-axis pin hole431in the spacer plate428. The mounting post406may be coupled to the mounting bracket404and the spacer plate428by inserting any suitable fastener439(e.g., an externally threaded shaft) up through the larger opening427in the mounting bracket404, through the aligned opening430in the spacer plate428, and into the axial internally threaded blind bore437in the mounting post406. In one embodiment, the fastener439is an externally threaded shaft and a lower end of the externally threaded shaft is coupled to the mounting bracket404by a self-locking hex nut440. In an alternate embodiment, the fastener439may be a hex bolt. The angular position of the mounting post406may be fixed by inserting any suitable fastener441(e.g., an anti-rotation pin) up through the other off-axis pin hole431in the spacer plate428and into the off-axis smooth blind bore438in the lower end436of the mounting post406. Otherwise, the mounting post406may rotate about its longitudinal axis and thereby disengage the externally threaded shaft439and/or cause the hex nut440securing the mounting post406to the mounting bracket404to disengage the externally threaded shaft439. Accordingly, when a user swings the computer component (e.g., a computer monitor403, a keyboard402, or a laptop) supported by the computer component mounting device400toward and away from the chair401,the mounting post406remains stationary and the elbow407rotates (arrow412) about the swing axis413.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 27, an upper end442of the mounting post406includes an axial smooth blind bore443and at least one off-axis smooth blind bore444. The axial smooth blind bore443in the upper end442of the mounting post406facilitates the attachment of various utility devices (not shown) such as a lamp, a secondary monitor, a beverage holder, or a document holder. In one embodiment, an extension post445may be coupled to the upper end442of the mounting post406. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension post445is a cylindrical rod. A lower end446of the extension post445includes a cylindrical projection447configured to extend into the axial smooth bore443in the upper end442of the mounting post406. The extension post445may be coupled to mounting post406by a fastener448. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the lower end446of the extension post445includes an off-axis smooth blind bore449configured to align with the off-axis smooth blind bore444in the upper end442of the mounting post406. Any suitable fastener450(e.g., an anti-rotation pin or a spring pin) may be inserted down into the off-axis blind bore444in the upper end442of the mounting post406and up into the off-axis blind bore449in the lower end446of the extension post445to prevent the extension post445from rotating relative to the mounting post406and thereby inadvertently disengaging the mounting post406. An upper end451of the extension post445defines a smooth blind bore452configured to facilitate the attachment of various utility devices (e.g., a lamp, a secondary monitor, a beverage holder, or a document holder). When a utility device is not attached to the extension post445, a cap may be inserted into the smooth blind bore452in the upper end451of the extension post445. The smooth blind bore452is also configured to receive the fastener448coupling the extension post445to the mounting post406.

In one embodiment, one or more spacer rings453are configured to slide onto the mounting post406and rest on an upper surface454of the spacer plate428. As illustrated inFIG. 26A, the elbow407is configured to rest on the one or more spacer rings453. Accordingly, the spacer rings453adjust the overall height of the computer component mounting device400and thus increase the usable space between the chair401and the computer component mounting device400. The spacer rings453also increase the height of the computer component (e.g., computer monitor, keyboard, or laptop) supported by the computer component mounting device400. Accordingly, a user may select the appropriate number of spacer rings453to accommodate the user's specific body type and/or achieve the desired height of the computer component supported by the computer component mounting device400. In one embodiment, three spacer rings453are provided and each spacer ring453is approximately 0.60 inches tall. In one or more alternate embodiments, the number of spacer rings453and the height of each spacer ring453may vary to provide the user more or less refined control over the overall height of the computer component mounting device400. Additionally, the extension post445is configured to increase the extent to which the height of the computer component mounting device400may be adjusted by facilitating the addition of a greater number of spacer rings453(i.e., together, the mounting post406and the extension post445are configured to accept a greater number spacer rings453than the mounting post406alone).

With reference now the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 28A and 28B, the elbow407includes a vertical leg455and a horizontal leg456. In the illustrated embodiment, the vertical leg455is frusto-conical and defines a cylindrical opening457extending from an upper end458of the vertical leg455to a lower end459of the vertical leg455. The cylindrical opening457in the vertical leg455is configured to slide onto the outer surface434of the mounting post406until the lower end459of the vertical leg455rests on top of the spacer rings453, if the user selected any spacer rings453, or on the upper surface454of the spacer plate428if the user elected not to use any spacer rings453. The cylindrical opening457in the vertical leg455is configured to enable the elbow407to rotate (arrow412) about the swing axis413, which extends through the longitudinal axis or centerline of the mounting post406. Swinging (arrow412) the elbow407about the swing axis413is configured to move the computer component (e.g., computer monitor, keyboard, or laptop) supported by the computer component mounting device400out of the user's way to enable the user to enter and exit the chair401. Swinging (arrow412) the elbow407about the swing axis413also enables the user to move the computer component into a desired working position in which the user will use the computer component.

With continued reference to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 28A and 28B, the elbow407also contains a narrow vertical slit460spanning from the upper end458to the lower end459of the vertical leg455. The slit460permits the vertical leg455to circumferentially expand and contract around the mounting post406, which decreases or increases, respectively, the amount of force necessary to swing (arrow412) the elbow407about the mounting post406. The vertical leg455also contains a recessed opening461and an internally threaded bore hole462, on opposite sides of the slit460, which are configured to receive a threaded shaft463of a knob set screw464. When the threaded shaft463of the knob set screw464is fully inserted into the recessed opening461, the threaded shaft463orthogonally spans the slit460and engages the internally threaded bore hole462. Adjusting the knob set screw464in the clockwise direction decreases the width of the slit460and thereby causes the vertical leg455to circumferentially contract around the mounting post406, which increases the amount of force necessary to rotate (arrow412) the elbow407about the mounting post406. In contrast, adjusting the knob set screw464in the counterclockwise direction increases the width of the slit460and thereby causes the vertical leg455to circumferentially expand around the mounting post406, which decreases the amount of force necessary to rotate (arrow412) the elbow407about the mounting post406. Accordingly, the user may adjust the knob set screw464in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction until a desired amount of force is necessary to swing (arrow412) the elbow407about the swing axis413.

Still referring to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 28A and 28B, the horizontal leg456of the elbow407is a thin-wall cylindrical tube defining a cylindrical opening465extending from the cylindrical opening457in the vertical leg455to an outer end466of the horizontal leg456. The cylindrical opening465in the horizontal leg456of the elbow407is configured to receive and rotatably support a proximal end of the articulable swing arm assembly408. A longitudinal axis of the cylindrical opening465in the horizontal leg456of the elbow407defines the tilt axis415about which the articulable swing arm assembly408is configured to rotate (arrow414) to level the computer component (e.g., the computer monitor, the keyboard, or the laptop) supported by the articulable swing arm assembly408, the deck tilt mount409, and the keyboard support tray410(FIG. 26A), the computer monitor support411(FIG. 26B), or the laptop table103. The level of the articulable swing arm assembly408is adjustable to permit a user to compensate for the weight of the computer component (e.g., computer monitor, keyboard, or laptop) supported on the articulable swing arm assembly400, which tends to deflect the articulable swing arm assembly408downward. For instance, in one embodiment, the level of the articulable swing arm assembly408may be adjusted such that the articulable swing arm assembly408is substantially horizontal after the articulable swing arm assembly408has been deflected downward under the weight of the computer component supported by the articulable swing arm assembly408.

As illustrated inFIGS. 28A and 28B, the elbow407also includes first and second bosses467,468projecting outward from opposite sides of the horizontal leg456. In the illustrated embodiment, each boss467,468includes a pair of internally threaded openings469,470and471,472, respectively, extending into the cylindrical opening465in the horizontal leg456. Each of the openings469,470,471,472is configured to receive a threaded shaft473of a leveling set screw474. The threaded shaft473of the leveling set screw474is configured to extend through one of the openings469,470,471,472and into the cylindrical opening465in the horizontal leg456to engage the articulable swing arm assembly408. The engagement between the leveling set screw474and the articulable swing arm assembly408is configured to lock the articulable swing arm assembly408into the desired level (i.e., the desired tilt angle). For instance, the user may loosen the leveling set screw474, rotate (arrow414) the articulable swing arm assembly408about the tilt axis415into the desired leveling angle (e.g., a level compensating for the downward deflection of the articulable swing arm assembly408due to the weight of the computer component supported by the articulable swing arm assembly408), and then retighten the leveling set screw474to set the level of the articulable swing arm assembly408.

Additionally, the bosses467,468and corresponding internally threaded openings469,470,471,472on opposite sides of the elbow407facilitate the attachment of the computer component mounting device400on either the right-hand side or the left-hand side of the chair401, as illustrated inFIGS. 26A and 26B. The internally threaded opening469,470,471,472into which the leveling set screw474is inserted may be selected based on the side of the chair401onto which the computer component mounting device400is installed. For instance, in one embodiment, when the computer component mounting device400is installed on the right-hand side of the chair401, as illustrated inFIG. 26A, the leveling set screw474may be inserted into one of the internally threaded openings469,470on the right-hand side of the elbow407, which are conveniently accessed by the user's right hand. When the computer component mounting device400is installed on the left-hand side of the chair401, as illustrated inFIG. 26B, the leveling set screw464may be inserted into one of the internally threaded openings471,472on the left-hand side of the elbow407, which are conveniently accessed by the user's left hand. The three unused openings (i.e., the openings into which the leveling set screw464is not inserted) may be covered by inserting caps or plugs475into the unused openings.

With reference now to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 29, the articulable swing arm assembly408includes four segments476,477,478,479hingedly connected to each other. The hingedly connected segments476,477,478,479are configured to enable a user to position the computer component supported by the articulable swing arm assembly400into the desired position by rotating (arrows418,419,420) one or more of the segments476,477,478,479about one or more of the axes421,422,423defined between the segments476,477,478,479, as illustrated inFIGS. 26A and 26B. Although in the illustrated embodiment the articulable swing arm assembly408includes four segments476,477,478,479, in one or more alternate embodiments, the swing arm assembly408may include any other suitable number of segments, such as, for instance, from one to six segments, depending on the desired degree of positionability of the computer component (e.g., keyboard, computer monitor, or laptop) supported by the articulable swing arm assembly408.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 29, the first segment476of the articulable swing arm assembly408includes an angled tube480. The angled tube480may define any suitable angle a, such as, for instance, from approximately 60 degrees to approximately 135 degrees. In the illustrated embodiment, the angled tube480defines an angle a of approximately 90 degrees. The first segment476also includes an attachment member481coupled to a proximal end of the angled tube480. The attachment member481includes an outer circumferential notch482extending at least partially around an outer surface of the attachment member481. The attachment member481may be coupled to the angled tube480by any suitable process, such as, for instance, bonding, welding, mechanical fastening, press-fitting, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the attachment member481may be integrally formed with the angled tube480.

The attachment member481is configured to extend into the cylindrical opening465in the horizontal leg456of the elbow407. Additionally, the outer circumferential notch482in the attachment member481is configured to receive the threaded shaft473of the leveling set screw474. The engagement between the threaded shaft473of the leveling set screw474and the circumferential notch482in attachment member481sets the level of the articulable swing arm assembly408. The circumferential notch482also enables the user to rotate (arrow414inFIGS. 26A and 26B) the articulable swing arm assembly408about the tilt axis415(seeFIGS. 26A,26B,28A, and28B), which is defined by the horizontal leg456of the elbow407, by an angle corresponding to an angular span of the outer circumferential notch482. The outer circumferential notch482may have any suitable angular span around the outer surface of the attachment member481depending on the desired adjustability of the articulable swing arm assembly408, such as, for instance, from approximately 15 degrees to approximately 270 degrees. In one embodiment, the outer circumferential482notch spans approximately 300 degrees around the outer surface of the attachment member481, which permits the articulable swing arm assembly408to rotate (arrow414) approximately 300 degrees about the tilt axis415of the horizontal leg456of the elbow407.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 29, the angled tube480defines an opening483(e.g., an internally threaded hole) configured to receive a handle484. The handle484is configured to facilitate manipulation of the position of the computer component supported by the computer component mounting device400. For instance, a user may grasp the handle484and swing (arrow412inFIGS. 26A and 26B) the articulable swing arm assembly408about the swing axis413and/or pitch (arrow414inFIGS. 26A and 26B) the articulable swing arm assembly408about the pitch axis415. When the handle484is not in use, the handle484may be detached from the angled tube480and the opening483in the angled tube480may be capped by a cap or a plug485. In one embodiment, the articulable swing arm assembly408may not be provided with the handle484.

Still referring to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 29, the first segment476of the articulable swing arm assembly408is hingedly connected to the second segment477by a hinge assembly486. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge assembly486includes a hinge blade487hingedly coupled to a hinge blade receptacle488. In the illustrated embodiment, the first segment476of the articulable swing arm assembly408includes the hinge blade receptacle488and the second segment477of the swing arm assembly408includes the hinge blade487, although in one or more alternate embodiments, the first segment476may include the hinge blade487and the second segment477may include the hinge blade receptacle488. In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge blade receptacle488is coupled to a distal end of the angled tube476. The hinge blade receptacle488is a cylindrical post having a larger diameter distal end489and a smaller diameter proximal end490. The smaller diameter proximal end490is configured to extend into an opening491in a distal end of the angled tube480. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the hinge blade receptacle488includes a plurality of longitudinal ridges492circumferentially disposed around an outer surface of the smaller diameter end490. The longitudinal ridges492are configured to engage an inner diameter of the angled tube476when the smaller diameter end490is inserted into the opening491in the distal end of the angled tube476. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the hinge blade receptacle488may be secured to the distal end of the angled tube476by a pair of fasteners493(e.g., pins) extending through a pair of openings494in the distal end of the angled tube480and through a pair of aligned openings495in the smaller diameter end of the hinge blade receptacle488. The larger diameter end489of the hinge blade receptacle488also defines a pair of rectangular notches or slots496configured to hingedly receive portions of the hinge blade487, as described below. The larger diameter end489of the hinge blade receptacle488also defines a pivot hole497extending through the rectangular slots496. In one embodiment, the hinge blade receptacle488may be the same or similar to the hinge75described above with reference toFIGS. 19A-19C.

With continued reference to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 29, the hinge blade487includes a pair of spaced apart hinge blades498. The hinge blades498are configured to extend into the slots496in the larger diameter end489of the hinge blade receptacle488. Each of the hinge blades498also defines a pivot hole499. The hinge blade487is hingedly coupled to the hinge blade receptacle488by a fastener500(e.g., a bushing and a bolt) extending through the pivot hole497in the larger diameter end489of the pivot blade receptacle488and the aligned pivot holes499in the hinge blades498. A longitudinal axis of the fastener500hingedly coupling the hinge blade487to the hinge blade receptacle488defines the axis421about which the second segment477is configured to rotate (arrow418) relative to the first segment476, as illustrated inFIGS. 26A and 26B. Accordingly, the hinged engagement between the hinge blades498and the slots496in the hinge blade receptacle488enables a user to rotate (arrow418) the second segment477of the articulable swing arm assembly408relative to the first segment476of the articulable swing arm assembly408about the axis421. The hinge blade487also includes a hinge blade holder501configured to couple the hinge blades498together. The hinge blade holder501is configured to extend into an opening502in a proximal end of a straight tube503of the second segment477of the articulable swing arm assembly408. In one embodiment, the hinge blade holder501and the hinge blades498may be integrally formed as a single, unitary component. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the hinge blade487may be secured to the proximal end of the straight tube503by a pair of fasteners504(e.g., pins) extending through a pair of openings505in the proximal end of the straight tube503and through a pair of aligned openings506in the hinge blade holder501of the hinge blade487. In one embodiment, the hinge blades498and hinge blade holder501may be the same or similar to the hinge blades54,55and the hinge blade holders61,62,63described above with reference toFIG. 17A.

With continued reference to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 29, the second segment477of the articulable swing arm assembly408is hingedly coupled to third segment478of the articulable swing arm assembly408by a hinge assembly507and the third segment478is hingedly coupled to the fourth segment479of the articulable swing arm assembly408by another hinge assembly508. The hinge assemblies507,508coupling the second segment477to the third segment478, and the third segment478to the fourth segment479, respectively, may be the same or similar to the hinge assembly486coupling the first segment476to the second segment477of the articulable swing arm assembly408. In the illustrated embodiment, the second segment includes477a hinge blade509coupled to a distal end of the straight tube503of the second segment477. The hinge blade509on the distal end of the second segment477is configured to hingedly connect to a hinge blade receptacle510coupled to a proximal end of a straight tube511of the third segment478. Additionally, the third segment478includes a hinge blade512coupled to a distal end of the straight tube511of the third segment478. The hinge blade512on the distal end of third segment478is configured to hingedly connect to a hinge blade receptacle513coupled to a proximal end of a straight tube514of the fourth segment479.

Although in the illustrated embodiment each of the second, third, and fourth swing arm segments477,478,479includes a straight tube503,511,514, respectively, in one or more alternate embodiments, one or more of the second, third, and fourth swing arm segments477,478,479may include a curved or bent tube. Additionally, although in the illustrated embodiment the tube511of the third segment478is longer than the tubes503,514of each of the second and fourth segments477,479, in one or more alternate embodiments, the tubes503,511,514may have any other suitable relative lengths. For instance, in one embodiment, the tubes503,511,514of the second, third, and fourth segments477,478,479may have substantially the same length.

With continued reference to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 29, the deck tilt mount409is rotatably coupled to the straight tube514of the fourth segment479of the articulable swing arm assembly408. In the illustrated embodiment, the deck tilt mount409includes a rectangular base515and a pair of spaced apart gripping arms516,517extending downward from the base515. The base515of the deck tilt mount409is configured to support either the keyboard support tray410(FIG. 26A), the computer monitor support411(26B), or the laptop table103(FIG. 23A). Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the base515of the deck tilt mount409defines a plurality of openings518configured to receive fasteners securing the deck tilt mount409to the keyboard support tray410, the computer monitor support411, or the laptop table103.

With continued reference toFIG. 29, the gripping arms516,517of the deck tilt mount409define an arcuate channel519configured to receive the straight tube514of the fourth segment479of the swing arm assembly408(i.e., the gripping arms516,517are configured to engage a portion of an outer surface of the straight tube514). Each gripping arm516,517also defines a pair of openings520,521configured to align with a pair of slots522,523, respectively, in the straight tube514of the fourth segment479of the articulable swing arm assembly408. Two fasteners524,525extend through the openings521,522in the gripping arms516,517and the aligned slots522,523, respectively, in the straight tube514to rotatably secure the deck tilt mount409to the fourth segment479of the articulable swing arm assembly408.

The slots522,523enable the user to pitch (arrow416) the deck tilt mount409, and the keyboard support tray410, the computer monitor support411, or the laptop table103coupled to the deck tilt mount409, about the pitch axis417, which extends through a centerline of the straight tube514of the fourth swing arm segment479and the centerline of the arcuate channel519of the deck tilt mount409. The slots522,523permit the deck tilt mount409and the keyboard support tray410, the computer monitor support411, or the laptop table103attached to the deck tilt mount409, to pitch (arrow416) to an extent corresponding to the circumferential or angular span of the slots522,523in the straight tube514. For instance, in one embodiment, the slots522,523span approximately 50 degrees around the straight tube514, which permits the deck tilt mount409to pitch approximately 50 degrees about the pitch axis417. In one or more alternate embodiments, the slots522,523may span any other suitable angle around the straight tube514, such as, for instance, from about 20 degrees to approximately 120 degrees, to permit more or less control of the angular orientation of the component (e.g., computer monitor, keyboard, or laptop) supported by the keyboard support tray410, the computer monitor support411, or the laptop table103coupled to the deck tilt mount409. Accordingly, the user may pitch (arrow416) the deck tilt mount409about the pitch axis417to achieve the desired working angle of the component (e.g., a computer monitor, a keyboard, or a laptop) supported on the deck tilt mount409. For instance, in one embodiment in which the computer component mounting device400is attached to a reclinable chair401, the deck tilt mount409may be tilted (arrow416) into a first position when the reclinable chair401is in an upright position and then tilted (arrow416) into a second position when the reclinable chair401is in a reclined position. Additionally, the fasteners524,525rotatably coupling the deck tilt mount409to the fourth segment514of the articulable swing arm assembly408may be adjusted to cause the gripping arms516,517to expand or contract around the straight tube514of the fourth segment514of the swing arm assembly408, thereby decreasing or increasing the force necessary to pitch (arrow416) the deck tilt mount409, and the keyboard support tray410, the computer monitor support411, or the laptop table103coupled to the deck tilt mount409, about the pitch axis417. In one embodiment, the deck tilt mount409may be the same or similar to the deck tilt mount101described above with reference toFIGS. 22A-22C.

With reference now to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 30A and 30B, the deck tilt mount409is shown coupled to and supporting the keyboard support tray410. In the illustrated embodiment, the keyboard support tray410includes a base plate526and a support tray527slidably coupled to the base plate526. In the illustrated embodiment, the support tray527includes a rectangular, flat plate528having an outer surface529and an inner surface530opposite the outer surface529. Additionally, the support tray527includes a pair of lips or flanges531,532extending downward from the inner surface530of the rectangular, flat plate528and extending along longitudinal edges of the rectangular, flat plate528. Together, the flanges531,532define a pair of channels or rails533,534configured to receive edges535,536of the base plate526. The engagement between the edges535,536of the base plate526and the channels533,534defined in the support tray527enables the support tray527to slide (arrow537) relative to the base plate526. The outer surface529of the support tray527is configured to support the keyboard402, although in one or more alternate embodiments, the support tray527may be configured to support any other component (e.g., a computer mouse). The support tray527is configured to slide back and forth (arrow537) along the base plate526such that the user may slide the keyboard402(FIG. 26A) and/or any other component supported on the support tray527into any desired working position. Although in the illustrated embodiment the support tray527is flat, in one or more alternate embodiments, the support tray527may be non-planar (e.g., curved), depending on the configuration of the components the support tray527is intended to support. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the keyboard support tray410includes hook or loop-type fasteners538attached to the outer surface529of the support tray527. The hook or loop-type fasteners538on the support tray527are configured to detachably engage corresponding loop or hook-type fasteners on the keyboard402or other component to securedly attach the keyboard402or other component to the keyboard support tray410. In one or more alternate embodiments, the keyboard support tray410may include any other suitable type of fastener to secure the keyboard402or other component to the support tray527, such as, for instance, loops or straps. The base plate526is configured to be fixedly coupled to the deck tilt mount409by a plurality of fasteners (e.g., countersunk screws) extending through a plurality of openings539defined in the base plate526and into the aligned openings518in the base515of the deck tilt mount409.

With reference now to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 31, the deck tilt mount409is shown coupled to and supporting the computer monitor support assembly411. In the illustrated embodiment, the computer monitor support assembly411includes a base support bracket540, a monitor support bracket541, and a splice bracket542configured to couple the base support bracket540to the monitor support bracket541. In the illustrated embodiment, the splice bracket542includes a flat, vertical plate543and a pair of lips or flanges544,545extending along vertical edges of the flat, vertical plate543. Together, the flanges544,545on the splice bracket542are configured to function as a pair of rails or guides. In the illustrated embodiment, the base support bracket540includes a lower, horizontal plate546, an angled plate547extending upward from an edge548of the lower plate546, and an upper, vertical plate549extending upward from an upper edge550of the angled plate547. The computer monitor support assembly411is configured to be fixedly coupled to the deck tilt mount409by a plurality of fasteners extending through openings551defined in the lower, horizontal plate546and into the aligned openings518in the base515of the deck tilt mount409.

Additionally, in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 31, the upper, vertical plate549of the base support bracket540defines an opening552configured to align with a lower slot553in the splice bracket542. The computer monitor support411also includes a lower fastener extending through the opening552in the upper, vertical plate549of the base support bracket540and the aligned lower slot553in the splice bracket542to couple the base support bracket540to the splice bracket542. The lower slot553in the splice bracket542enables the splice bracket542to be adjusted upward and downward (arrow554) relative to the base support bracket540to adjust the height of the component (e.g., the computer monitor) supported by the computer monitor support assembly411. For instance, the height of the computer monitor may be adjusted by loosening the lower fastener coupling the splice bracket542to the base support bracket540, sliding the splice bracket542up or down (arrow554) into the desired position, and then retightening the lower fastener to fix the height of the splice bracket542. As the splice bracket542is slid upward or downward (arrow554), the flanges544,545of the splice bracket542engage vertical edges555,556, respectively, of the upper, vertical plate549of the base support bracket540to maintain proper alignment between the splice bracket542and the base support bracket540.

In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 31, the monitor support bracket541includes an upper, vertical plate557, an angled plate558extending downward from a lower end559of the upper, vertical plate557, and a lower, vertical plate560extending downward from a lower edge561of the angled plate558. The upper, vertical plate557defines a plurality of openings562configured to receive fasteners coupling the computer monitor403(FIG. 26B) or other suitable component to the monitor support bracket541. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the lower, vertical plate560defines an opening563configured to align with an upper slot564in the splice bracket542. The computer monitor support assembly411also includes an upper fastener extending through the opening563in the lower, vertical plate560of the monitor support bracket541and the aligned upper slot564in the splice bracket542to couple the monitor support bracket541to the splice bracket542. The upper slot564in the splice bracket542enables the monitor support bracket541to be adjusted upward and downward (arrow565) relative to the splice bracket542and the base support bracket540to adjust the height of the component (e.g., the computer monitor403) supported by the computer monitor support assembly411. For instance, the height of the computer monitor403may be adjusted by loosening the upper fastener, sliding (arrow565) the monitor support bracket541up or down into the desired position, and retightening the upper fastener to fix the height of the monitor support bracket541and the computer component supported thereon. As the monitor support bracket541is slid upward or downward (arrow565), vertical edges566,567of the lower, vertical plate560engage the flanges544,545, respectively, of the splice plate542to maintain proper alignment between monitor support bracket541and the splice bracket542. In one or more alternate embodiments, the monitor support bracket541may be directly coupled to the base support bracket540(e.g., the computer monitor support assembly411may be provided without the splice bracket542).

With reference now to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 32, the deck tilt mount409is shown coupled to and supporting the support deck assembly570. In the illustrated embodiment, the support deck assembly570includes a flat, rectangular plate571having an upper surface572and a lower surface573opposite the upper surface572. In one or more alternate embodiment, the plate571may have any other suitable shape (e.g., circular) and/or may be non-planar. The upper surface572of the plate571may support stationery568(e.g., sheets of paper or notepads) and writing instruments569(e.g., pens and pencils) (see alsoFIG. 26C). Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the support deck assembly570includes a recess or receptacle574in the plate571. The receptacle574may support one or more writing instruments569(e.g., pens or pencils) and/or any other office products, such as, for instance, paper clips or erasers. In the illustrated embodiment the receptacle574is rectangular, although in one or more alternate embodiments, the receptacle574may have any other desired shape, such as, for instance, circular or square. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the support deck assembly570includes a projection575extending downward from the lower surface572of the plate571. The position of the projection575corresponds to the position of the receptacle574such that the thickness of the plate571is substantially uniform throughout or across the plate571(i.e., the thickness of the projection575compensates for the depth of the receptacle574). In the illustrated embodiment, the plate571also defines a plurality of openings580(e.g., blind bores extending upward from the lower surface573of the plate571). The support deck assembly570is configured to be fixedly coupled to the deck tilt mount409by a plurality of fasteners extending through the openings580defined in the plate571and into the aligned openings518in the base515of the deck tilt mount409.

With continued reference to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 32, the support deck assembly570also includes a plurality of spring-loaded clips576coupled to an upper edge577of the plate571and at least one spring-loaded clip578coupled to a side edge579of the plate571. The spring-loaded clips576,578are configured to secure stationery568(e.g., sheets of paper or notepads) and/or other office products to the upper surface572of the plate571. For instance, the spring-loaded clips576,578may be configured to hold a sheet of paper or a notepad in place while a user writes on the sheet of paper or notepad. In one or more alternate embodiment, the support deck assembly570may include any other suitable types of clips configured to secure stationery and/or other office products to the plate571. The plate571may be made out of any suitable durable materials, such as, for instance, wood, plastic, metal, or any combination thereof.

Although in the illustrated embodiment the computer component mounting device400is shown supporting a single computer component or other object, the computer component mounting device400may be configured to simultaneously support two or more computer components and/or other objects (e.g., both a computer monitor403and a keyboard402). In one embodiment, the computer component mounting device400includes a first elbow, a first articulable swing arm assembly, and a first deck tilt mount configured to support a first computer component or other object (e.g., a computer monitor), and a second elbow, a second articulable swing arm assembly, and a second deck tilt mount configured to support a second computer component or other object (e.g., a keyboard). In one embodiment, the extension post445(FIG. 27) may be coupled to the mounting post406to provide sufficient room for the second elbow to be attached. For instance, in one embodiment, the elbow407, the articulable swing arm assembly408, the deck tilt mount409, and the computer monitor support assembly411illustrated inFIG. 26Bmay be coupled to the mounting post406illustrated inFIG. 26A(or coupled to the extension post445that is coupled to the mounting post406) such that the computer component mounting device400may support both a computer monitor403and a keyboard402.

Although the drawings illustrate the embodiments of the present invention coupled to a chair (e.g., a reclinable chair), it will be apparent that the embodiments of the present invention may also be coupled to any other suitable object, such as, for instance, to a desk or a table. Also, while the above description and accompanying drawings describe and depict the embodiments of the present invention as being useable for supporting a laptop, a computer monitor, and/or a keyboard, it will be apparent that the embodiments of the present invention may also be used to support other items, such as books or writing pads. Further, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may incorporate or embody various combinations of the embodiments described above with respect to the shapes, sizes, and components of the various embodiments, as well as alternatives not described herein, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The preceding description has been presented with reference to some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Persons skilled in the art and technology to which this invention pertains will appreciate that alterations and changes in the described structures and methods of assembly and operation can be practiced without meaningfully departing from the principles, spirit, and scope of this invention, as set forth in the following claims.