Turntable stand assembly and monitor

A system can include a platform; a turntable coupled to the platform for rotation of the platform about a vertical axis; a support that includes a column, an extension and an arm joint disposed on the extension, where the column extends vertically from the platform and where the extension extends from the column at an angle and positions the arm joint vertically above the platform and toward a perimeter of the platform; a monitor mount that includes an arm joint; a monitor that includes a computing device and a touch screen, the monitor being mountable to the monitor mount; and an arm coupled at a pivot end to the arm joint of the support and coupled at a free end to the arm joint of the monitor mount, which is pivotable about the free end of the arm. Various other apparatuses, assemblies, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Subject matter disclosed herein generally relates to assemblies for monitors and monitors.

BACKGROUND

As visual interfaces continually evolve for display of information, touch input, etc., users are demanding more flexible ergonomic systems to support such interfaces. For example, consider a monitor that can display information as well as optionally operate as a touch screen keyboard, drafting table, etc. At times, a user may desire an ergonomic configuration better suited to visualization of information while, at other times, a user may desire an ergonomic configuration better suited to touch input. As described herein, various assemblies can provide for flexible ergonomics.

SUMMARY

A system can include a horizontal platform that includes a perimeter and a vertical axis; a circular turntable coupled to the horizontal platform for rotation of the platform about the vertical axis; a support that includes a column, an extension and an arm joint disposed on the extension, where the column extends vertically from the horizontal platform and where the extension extends from the column at an acute angle and positions the arm joint vertically above the horizontal platform and toward the perimeter of the horizontal platform; a monitor mount that comprises an arm joint; a monitor that includes a computing device and a touch screen, the monitor being mountable to the monitor mount; and an arm coupled at a pivot end to the arm joint of the support and coupled at a free end to the arm joint of the monitor mount, the monitor mount being pivotable about the free end of the arm. Various other apparatuses, assemblies, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description includes the best mode presently contemplated for practicing the described implementations. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but rather is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of the implementations. The scope of the invention should be ascertained with reference to the issued claims.

FIG. 1shows example scenarios101,102and103where a user104is seated in a chair105before a table106with a surface108that an assembly200and a monitor300with a screen320(e.g., a display surface). As shown, the assembly200can include a platform400(e.g., to support the assembly200on a surface such as the surface108of the table106) and a support500that supports a pivotable arm700that includes a mount800for mounting the monitor300to the assembly200. The assembly200provides for positioning of the monitor300, for example, in a free orientation as shown in the scenario101and in touch mode orientations as shown in the scenarios102and103(e.g., the monitor300may be configured with touch circuitry for making the screen320a touch screen). As an example, the monitor300may include a computing device and a touch screen (e.g., via touch circuitry such as a capacitive touch circuitry or other touch circuitry).

For the scenario101, a keyboard110may be provided for input of characters, commands, etc. For the scenario102, the user104may use one or both of her hands107to touch the screen320for input of commands, information, etc. For the scenario103, the user104may hold a stylus109and position the stylus109with respect to screen320for input of commands, information, etc. For example, the user104may touch the screen320with the stylus109to select one or more controls, to draw, etc.

As shown, for the scenarios101,102and103, the user104may have an angle of view (or view angle) for comfortably viewing the screen320. As an example, the assembly200can allow for various adjustments to enhance ergonomics of a user's environment (e.g., depending on user comfort, tasks, etc.). Such adjustments may be achieved quickly and easily via a user's hand or hands, even while the user may remain seated. For example, the user104in scenario101may set the keyboard110aside, grab the monitor300with both hands and tilt it to achieve a touch mode orientation, per the scenario102or the scenario103. As necessary, the user104may extend the monitor300as mounted to the assembly200forward to readily allow for touching with her hands107part of the screen320or the entire screen320per the scenario102. As an example, the user104may hold an implement such as the stylus109to enter information or select one or more controls, regions, etc. displayed via the screen320per the scenario103. As shown, the user104may achieve a suitable ergonomic environment for the scenarios101,102and103, optionally without adjustment to the chair105or the table106.

FIG. 2shows various views of the assembly200with the monitor300in orientations201,202,203and204. As an example, a system can include the assembly200and the monitor300. For example, a system can include the platform400, the support500, the arm700and the mount800with the monitor300mounted to the mount800.

As shown in the example ofFIG. 2, the platform400may be oriented horizontally and include an edge410disposed between a lower surface420and an upper surface440where the edge410includes a front end430and a back end450. As an example, the edge410may be a perimeter of the platform400, which may define an area or footprint for the platform400. In the example orientations201,202,203and204, the center of mass of the monitor300, which may have a mass that exceeds that of the assembly200, remains above the area or footprint of the platform400.

As an example, the platform400can include a midpoint located approximately halfway between the front end430and the back end450, which may define, in part, location of the support500as attached to the platform400. Further, as an example, the midpoint may define, in part, a range for orientations of the monitor300, for example, where, in possible vertical orientations of the monitor300, the screen320of the monitor remains fore of the midpoint of the platform400(e.g., and aft of the front end430of the platform400).

As shown in the example ofFIG. 2, the support500can include a column620, an extension640and an arm joint520disposed on the extension640where the column620extends vertically from the horizontal platform400and where the extension640extends from the column620at an acute angle and positions the arm joint520vertically above the horizontal platform400and toward the back end450of the horizontal platform400. In the example ofFIG. 2, the support500includes a surface660, for example, that extends at an angle with respect to the horizontally oriented platform400. Such a surface may act as a stop surface, for example, to form a contact with a surface of the arm700to limit pivoting of the arm700in the arm joint520and, for example, to support the weight of the arm700and a monitor attached thereto via the mount800.

As shown in the example ofFIG. 2, the mount800may be a monitor mount for mounting of the monitor300that includes an arm joint540and the arm700can include a pivot end720and a free end740where the arm700can be coupled at the pivot end720to the arm joint520of the support500and coupled at the free end740to the arm joint540of the monitor mount800, for example, where the monitor mount800is pivotable about the free end740of the arm700(e.g., via the arm joint540). As an example, in the touch mode orientation201, the arm700may contact, on a lower side, an upper surface of the support500(consider, e.g., the surface660) and may contact, on an upper side, a back side surface of a monitor mounted to the arm700via the mount800. In such an example, the weight of the monitor may be transferred to the upper surface of the support500via the arm700.

As shown in the example ofFIG. 2, the monitor300includes a bottom edge340, a top edge380and a back side edge360where a bumper350(or bumpers) are mounted to the monitor300, for example, at the bottom edge340and extending toward the back side edge360. In the touch mode orientation201, the bumper350may contact, along a first side, a surface such as the surface108of the table106on which the platform400is supported. In such an example, the monitor300may be supported via contact with the arm700and via bumper contact with another surface that supports the platform400. In the vertical orientation203, the bumper350may contact, along a second side, the upper surface440of the platform400. In such an example, the monitor300may be supported, in part, via bumper contact with the upper surface400of the platform400. As to the free orientations202and204, the monitor300is supported by the arm700, as connected to the support500, which is attached to the platform400. Thus, the example orientations ofFIG. 2include some with bumper contact (e.g., the orientations201and203) and some without bumper contact (e.g., the orientations202and204).

As an example, the assembly200may include a minimum pivot angle for the arm700and a maximum pivot angle for the arm700. For example, the minimum pivot angle may be approximately minus 25 degrees with respect to a horizontal plane passing through the arm joint520that is substantially parallel to the horizontally oriented platform400and, for example, the maximum pivot angle may be approximately 55 degrees with respect to a horizontal plane passing through the arm joint520that is substantially parallel to the horizontally oriented platform400. In such an example, the arm700may pivot in a range of approximately 80 degrees (e.g., from about minus 25 degrees to about 55 degrees). As an example, a minimum pivot angle may be defined by contact between a contact surface of the arm700and a contact surface of the support500(see, e.g., the surface660). As an example, a maximum pivot angle may be defined by a stop mechanism of the arm joint520.

FIG. 3shows the assembly200and the monitor300ofFIG. 2in two additional orientations205and206. In the example ofFIG. 3, the orientation205may be referred to as a table orientation where the arm700supports the monitor300substantially parallel to the horizontal platform400, for example, at a maximum pivot angle of the arm700about the arm joint520of the support500. As to the orientation206, it is a free orientation where the arm700supports the monitor300and where the monitor300is pivoted about the arm joint540at an angle of approximately minus 5 degrees with respect to vertical (e.g., using the horizontally oriented platform400as a reference). As an example, in the table orientation205, one or more tokens may be positioned on the screen320of the monitor300. For example, a passive token, an active token or a combination of passive and active tokens may be positioned on the screen320(e.g., for playing a game, etc.). As an example, a table orientation may allow for multiple users to interact with the monitor300, for example, via touching the screen320(e.g., where the users may be seat about the monitor300).

In the example orientations205and206, the center of mass of the monitor300, which may have a mass that exceeds that of the assembly200, remains above the area or footprint of the platform400.

FIG. 4shows various views of the assembly200and the monitor300where the assembly200includes a turntable1500for rotation of the platform400, for example, about a vertical axis of the platform400. In a bottom plan view (lower view), a diameter (Dp) of the platform400and a diameter (Dre) of a socket for rolling elements of the turntable1500are shown where the diameter (Dre) of the socket (e.g., formed by an upper race and a lower race) for rolling elements of the turntable1500is slightly less than the diameter (Dp) of the platform400. For example, Dreof the turntable1500may be selected to be at least 80% of Dpof the platform400(e.g., to aid stability, smoothness of rotation, stress distribution, etc.).

InFIG. 4, the bottom plan view also shows two bumpers350-1and350-2as being attached to the monitor300, which may be optional. Where provided, the bumpers350-1and350-2may provide some resistance to rotation via contact with a support surface such as the surface108of the table106ofFIG. 1. In such an example, for various orientations, the bumpers350-1and350-2may aid in rotating the platform400to a particular angle and maintaining that angle (e.g., for viewing of the screen320of the monitor300). For example, the turntable1500may allow the platform400to be freely rotatable such that gentle force causes the platform400to readily spin. In such an example, for a touch mode orientation (see, e.g., the touch mode orientation in the scenarios102and103ofFIG. 1), touches to the screen320may therefore result in undesirable rotation of the platform400. However, where one or more bumpers are provided that contact a support surface (see, e.g., the surface108), the platform400may be more resistant to undesired rotation via frictional force achieved by such contact. As an example, a bumper may be made of a material that is “grippy” with respect to a wood surface, a ceramic surface, a glass surface, a synthetic surface, etc. to provide resistance to sweeping movement across such surfaces (e.g., via frictional force).

In a front plan view, the monitor300is shown as having a width (xs) and a height (ys), which may define a front area of the monitor300(e.g., between the bottom edge340, the top edge380, a first side edge370and a second side edge390), and the platform400is shown as having a width (xp). As an example, the monitor300may have a frontal surface area that exceeds the area or footprint of the platform400and, for example, the mass of the monitor300may exceed that of the platform400(e.g., including the turntable1500). As an example, a smaller footprint may help to preserve useable desk area.

FIG. 4also shows the support500as including a cable guide780as extending outwardly from the arm joint520, for example, to guide one or more cables connected to the monitor300, for example, as the monitor300is being positioned in a particular orientation.

InFIG. 4, a back plan view and the bottom plan view, the back side of the monitor300is shown as including surfaces920,940and960as well as vents930and a connector recess950, which includes connector sockets disposed at an angle (see, e.g., the angle φ inFIG. 6) for connecting one or more cables, etc. to the monitor300. In the example ofFIG. 4, the back side edge360is part of a perimeter of the back side surface940, which includes a recess943for receipt of a portion of the mount800and a recess945, for example, for receipt of a hand to help carry, mount, position, etc. the monitor300. As shown, the surface960slopes from the perimeter to the top edge380and the surface920slopes from the perimeter to the bottom edge340.

FIG. 5shows a perspective cut-away view of a portion of the assembly200including the turntable1500and a plan view and a cut-away view of the turntable1500. In the example ofFIG. 5, the turntable1500includes rolling elements1510disposed in a socket formed by a lower race1520and an upper race1540. To rotatably support the platform400, the platform400may be connected to the upper race1540, which is configured to be freely rotatable with respect to the lower race1520via the rolling elements1510. As an example, the upper race1540may be bolted, press-fit, welded, etc. to the platform400. As an example, the turntable1500may include one or more openings that provide access to the column620, for example, where the column620is bolted, screwed, etc. to the platform400. Given such an arrangement, the socket formed by the lower race1520and the upper race1540may be protected to help prevent debris from entering the socket (e.g., consider a metal to metal low-friction seal between a portion of the lower race1520and a portion of the upper race1540).

In the example ofFIG. 5, the turntable1500has an outer radius (ro) and a socket radius (rre) for the socket that receives the rolling elements1510. As shown, the radius rreis approximately at least 80% of the radius roand approximately 90% of the radius ro. As an example, the radius romay be approximately the same as an outer radius of the platform400, for example, to thereby locate the socket of the turntable1500and the rolling elements1510therein relatively close to the outer radius of the platform400.

As an example, the turntable1500may include the lower race1520and the upper race1540formed of metal. As an example, the rolling elements1510may be formed of metal or ceramic. As an example, the lower race1520and/or the upper race1540may be cast, stamped, etc. As an example, a piece of sheet metal may be stamped to form the lower race1520and another piece of sheet metal may be stamped to form the upper race1540where they are then freely “joined” at or near their ends to form the socket for the rolling elements (e.g., as positioned in the socket during or prior to the joining process). Such a joining process aims to secure the rolling elements1510rotatably in the socket while allowing the upper race1540to rotate freely with respect to the lower race1520.

As an example, the lower race1520may provide a support surface or may be connected to another component of the turntable1500that forms a support surface upon which the platform400may be supported. As an example, the lower race1520may be positioned on a table, a desk, etc. to remain stationary while the upper race1540rotates along with the platform400.

FIG. 6shows various views of the assembly200in an approximately vertical orientation and in a touch mode orientation as being rotatable with respect to a surface608upon which the turntable1500is supported, which, in turn, supports the platform400. As shown, the screen320of the monitor300may be positioned through use of the turntable1500. For example, a user may show the screen320to another individual by rotating the monitor300(as coupled to the platform400, which is rotatably coupled to the turntable1500) without changing the orientation (e.g., while maintaining a vertical orientation, a touch mode orientation, a table orientation, etc.).

In the examples ofFIG. 6, one or more cables may be connected to the monitor300and pass through the cable guide780where the cable guide780acts to help keep the one or more cables clear during rotation of the platform400. In particular, as the cable guide780is located near the back of the assembly200it can guide cables and keep them clear of various components of the assembly200while the monitor300is positioned to one or more orientations, while the assembly200is rotated about the turntable1500, etc.

As an example, a system can include an assembly and a monitor where a stop mechanism defines a maximum pivot angle of an arm of the assembly that maintains the center of mass of the monitor above a horizontal platform of the assembly for pivotable orientations of the monitor about an arm joint of a monitor mount of the assembly to which the arm is connected at a free end of the arm. In such an example, the turntable1500, as part of the assembly200, may operate with more stability (e.g., less wobble). In other words, if the center of mass of the monitor300were not above the platform400, rotation of the platform400via the turntable1500would sweep the center of mass of the monitor300about a large radius arc (e.g., where that radius exceeds the radius of the platform400). Inadvertent contact between the monitor300and an object during rotation, binding of one or more cables connected to the monitor during rotation, touching of the screen320of the monitor300during or after rotation, etc. could each cause the assembly200to be unstable, topple, etc. As an example, a turntable stand assembly for a monitor may provide for a wide range of orientations as to a screen of the monitor as well as for rotation of the screen about a vertical axis of the turntable stand platform even where the monitor mounted to the turntable stand assembly has a mass that exceeds that of the turntable stand assembly (e.g., the platform400, the column620, the extension640, the arm700, the monitor mount800, etc.).

FIG. 7shows a perspective view of the assembly200and the monitor300along with cutting planes A (along lines A-A), B (along lines B-B) and C (along lines C-C), corresponding cross-sectional or cut-away views are shown inFIG. 8,FIG. 9andFIG. 10, respectively.FIG. 7also shows vents970in the surface940and a bumper351-1, which may be, for example, formed of an elastomer with a portion that may be received by a vent slot to secure the bumper351-1to the monitor300; noting that one or more other bumpers may be secured to the monitor (e.g.,351-2,351-3, etc.). In such an example, the bumper351-1may be received by a vent slot of the vents930, for example, to define a clearance between a surface and the vents930to help ensure flow of air to the vents930for purposes of providing air flow within the monitor300, for example, to assist with cooling, at least in part via convection of air within the monitor300(e.g., from the lower vents930to the upper vents970).

FIG. 8shows a cut-away view of the assembly200including the turntable1500along with a perspective view of a portion of the surface940as including the recess943and a perspective view of the assembly200showing a face and various features thereof of the mount800of the assembly200(e.g., a spring-biased sliding plate, prongs, etc.).

In the example ofFIG. 8, the arm700is shown as including an upper portion730and a lower portion750. For example, the upper portion730may be made of a rigid material such as a metal or an alloy and formed as a box (e.g., with three sides) with a lower opening and the lower portion750may be a cover made of a plastic or other material that can be coupled to cover the lower opening of the upper portion730. As an example, the upper portion730may be die-cast as a unitary component with the pivot end720and the free end740. In such an example, the lower portion750may be a plastic cover that snaps to or otherwise is securable to the upper portion730, for example, for removal to access one or more features of the assembly200.

As shown in the example ofFIG. 8, an axis of the arm joint520is located vertically above the platform400and the column620of the support500is located between an approximate mid-point of the platform400and the back end450of the platform440. As an example, the column620and the extension640may be die-cast as a unitary component (e.g., die-cast metal, alloy, etc.), for example, that can be connected to the platform400(e.g., via bolts, etc.).

As an example, the mid-point of the platform400may correspond to a vertical axis of the platform400about which the platform400may rotate via the turntable1500. As shown in the example ofFIG. 8, the rolling elements1510of the turntable1500are located in an annular socket defined by the lower race1520and the upper race1540.

As shown in the example ofFIG. 8, the extension640is disposed at an angle where a line extending forward from the extension intersects the platform400at an intersection point while providing a margin between the intersection point and the end430of the platform400. When the arm700is in a lowermost position, a centerline extending between the arm joint520and the arm joint540extends to an intersection point closer to the end430of the platform400and, when a monitor is attached to the arm700via the monitor mount800and in a touch mode orientation, a centerline of the monitor may extend past the end430of the platform400, for example, to allow one or more rubber bumpers attached to the monitor to contact a support surface upon which the platform400is supported (see, e.g.,FIG. 11).

FIG. 9shows a perspective view of a portion of the assembly200and a cut-away view of the portion of the assembly200. As shown in the example ofFIG. 9, the arm joint520has a U-shape with an axle support522-1and an axle support522-2, which support an axle525via axle sockets524-1and524-2about which the arm700pivots at its pivot end720. As shown, the axle supports522-1and522-2also support a bar527via bar sockets526-1and526-2, which are part of a stop mechanism to limit pivoting of the arm700about the axle525. For example, the arm700includes an internal block724that extends from an end wall722and that includes an aperture725for passage of the axle525and a stop surface727that can contact the bar527to define a maximum pivot angle for the arm700with respect to the arm joint520of the support500.

In the example ofFIG. 9, the arm joint520includes a cap528as a cover on one side and the cable guide780on an opposing side. Further, the example ofFIG. 9shows the arm700as including an internal brace735to provide the arm700with additional structural integrity, for example, to support a monitor mounted to the free end740of the arm700(e.g., via the mount800).

As an example, the axle supports522-1and522-2may be part of the extension640of the support500, for example, where the extension640and the axle supports522-1and522-2may be die-cast as a unitary component, which may also include the column620.

FIG. 10shows various views of the assembly200that include at least a portion of the mount800. In the example ofFIG. 10, the arm700is shown as including a side wall732-1with an opening734-1and an opposing side wall732-2with an opening734-2. As shown, the mount800includes a main plate810and an actuator820that may slide to move a spring-biased plate for latching and unlatching the mount800from a monitor (e.g., where one or more prongs of the spring-biased plate may engage one or more sockets of the recess943of the monitor300).

In the example ofFIG. 10, the mount800includes supports542-1and542-2, outer covers544-1and544-2and inner covers546-1and546-2. As an example, the supports542-1and542-2may be bolted to the main plate810of the mount800(e.g., to form, in part, the arm joint540). As shown, the supports542-1and542-2may support a cross-member525(see dashed lines), which may be an axle with threaded ends that receive nuts to apply a compressive force. Such a compressive force may be applied to the upper portion730of the arm700to allow for pivoting of the main plate810of the mount800, for example, to pivot a monitor about the arm joint540, and to hold the mount800at a particular pivot angle with the monitor attached thereto.

FIG. 11shows side views of the assembly200where an upper view shows the assembly200with the monitor300along with a cable785extending from the monitor300and through the cable guide780and where a lower view shows the assembly200with the monitor300in a touch mode orientation as being supported in part by a bumper350-1or351-2or bumpers that provide a clearance with respect to a surface908, for example to allow for flow of air to the vents930.

As shown inFIG. 11, the cable785is connected to the monitor300via a connector disposed in the connector recess950(see, e.g., dashed line) and passes through the cable guide780. For example, the cable785may be a power cable that provides power to the monitor300. As mentioned, a connector disposed in the connector recess950may be disposed at an angle (see, e.g., the angle φ inFIG. 8) to facilitate guidance of a cable or cables by the cable guide785. The angle may facilitate cable guidance (e.g., sliding, etc.) as the monitor300is adjusted from one orientation to another orientation. For example, consider moving from the table orientation to the touch mode orientation where the angle of a connector directs a cable connected thereto toward the cable guide785.

As shown inFIG. 11, the bumper350-1(e.g., or the bumper351-1) provides a clearance (Δz) between the surface920and the surface908sufficient for flow of air to the vents930(e.g., vent slots in the surface920).FIG. 11also shows a gap between the platform400and the monitor300(e.g., and the main plate810of the mount800). As mentioned, one or more bumpers may provide a suitable amount of resistance to sweeping responsive to rotation of the platform400about the turntable1500. For example, the bumper350-1or the bumper351-1may provide frictional force with respect to the surface908that may help in rotatably positioning the monitor300, maintaining a rotated position of the monitor300, etc.

As an example, a system can include a horizontal platform that includes a perimeter and a vertical axis; a circular turntable coupled to the horizontal platform for rotation of the platform about the vertical axis; a support that includes a column, an extension and an arm joint disposed on the extension, where the column extends vertically from the horizontal platform and where the extension extends from the column at an acute angle and positions the arm joint vertically above the horizontal platform and toward the perimeter of the horizontal platform; a monitor mount that comprises an arm joint; a monitor that comprises a computing device and a touch screen, the monitor being mountable to the monitor mount; and an arm coupled at a pivot end to the arm joint of the support and coupled at a free end to the arm joint of the monitor mount, the monitor mount being pivotable about the free end of the arm. In such an example, the circular turntable can include a circumference where, at the horizontal platform, the column includes a perimeter located within the circumference of the circular turntable. As an example, a circular turntable can include rolling elements disposed between races.

As an example, a horizontal platform can include a front end, a back end and a midpoint located approximately halfway between the front end and the back end where, at the horizontal platform, a column is positioned between the midpoint and the back end of the horizontal platform. In such an example, a monitor mounted to a monitor mount supported by an arm and a support on the platform may be positioned in a vertical orientation with respect to the platform such that a touch screen of the monitor is positionable in orientations only between the mid-point and the front end of the horizontal platform.

As an example, a mass of a monitor may exceed a combined mass of a circular turntable, a horizontal platform, a support, a monitor mount and an arm that provide for support of the monitor (e.g., in various orientations in which rotation of the monitor may be achieved by rotation of the platform via the turntable).

As an example, at least a column and an extension of a support may be a unitary component (e.g., die-cast, etc.). As an example, bolts may be provided and used to bolt the unitary component to a horizontal platform, for example, where the horizontal platform is rotatable about a vertical axis via a turntable coupled to the horizontal platform.

As an example, an arm can include an upper component and a detachable lower component, for example, where the upper component includes a box shape having an opening and where the detachable lower component covers the opening. In such an example, the upper component may be die-cast metal and the lower component may be plastic.

As an example, an arm joint can include an axle and a bar, where the axle defines a pivot axis, where a pivot end of an arm includes a block, where the block includes an aperture and a stop surface, where the aperture receives the axle and where contact between the bar and the stop surface define a maximum pivot angle of the arm about the pivot axis. As an example, a maximum pivot angle of an arm may be approximately 55 degrees.

As an example, contact between a surface located between a pivot end and a free end of an arm and a surface of a support may define a minimum pivot angle of the arm. As an example, a minimum pivot angle of an arm may be approximately minus 25 degrees (e.g., with respect to a horizontal plane that passes through the pivot end of the arm).

As an example, an arm of an assembly may have a maximum pivot angle of approximately 55 degrees and a minimum pivot angle of approximately minus 25 degrees with respect to a horizontal plane that passes through a pivot axis of the pivot end of the arm. For example, consider an arm with a free end and a pivot end where the pivot end is received by an arm joint of a support of a platform where the platform may be coupled to a turntable. In such an example, the free end of the arm may be pivoted about the arm joint downwardly to about minus 25 degrees (e.g., to positioned a monitor mounted via a monitor mount to the free end of the arm) and may be pivoted about the arm joint upwardly to about 55 degrees (e.g., to positioned a monitor mounted via a monitor mount to the free end of the arm).

As an example, a system can include a monitor mounted to a monitor mount wherein, to support the monitor in a touch mode orientation, a lower surface located between a pivot end and a free end of an arm and an upper surface of a support contact and a back surface of the monitor and an upper surface of the arm contact. In such a manner, the arm is “sandwiched” between the monitor and the support surfaces, which may provide additional stability to the monitor in the touch mode orientation, for example, where a user rotates the monitor by rotating a platform to which the support is connected and to which a turntable is coupled.

As an example, a system can include a stop mechanism that defines a maximum pivot angle of an arm that maintains the center of mass of the monitor above a horizontal platform for pivotable orientations of a monitor about an arm joint of a monitor mount and for rotatable orientations of the horizontal platform about the vertical axis.

As an example, a system may include a monitor mounted to a turntable stand assembly via a monitor mount where the turntable stand assembly includes a cable guide that extends from an arm joint of a support where the support is connected to a platform and where the platform is rotatable via a turntable. In such an example, the monitor can include a lower edge, an upper edge, and a back side where the back side includes cable connectors disposed at an angle to angle cables connected thereto toward the upper edge. In such an example, a cable connected to one of the cable connectors of the monitor cable can be slidably supported by the cable guide for pivotable orientations of the monitor with respect to an arm joint of the monitor mount and the arm joint of the support and the cable can also be supported by the cable guide for rotatable orientations of the platform (e.g., about a vertical axis of the platform).

As an example, a system can include a monitor and a turntable stand assembly to position the monitor in: a touch mode orientation where a surface located between a pivot end and a free end of an arm and a surface of a support contact to support the monitor; a vertical orientation where a lower edge bumper of the monitor contacts a platform to support the monitor; a free orientation where the arm supports the monitor; and a table orientation where the arm supports the monitor parallel to the platform at a maximum pivot angle of the arm about an arm joint of the support. In such an example, the turntable stand assembly can provide for rotation of the platform via a turntable, for example, to thereby rotate the monitor (e.g., for viewing, for touching, for positioning tokens, etc.). For example, in the table orientation, multiple users may be seated about the system where the platform may be rotated to a number of degrees to position the monitor (e.g., a monitor screen) with respect to one of the users. Where a game is being played that involves taking turns, once that user is finished with her turn, the platform may be rotated to position the monitor with respect to another one of the users.

As an example, a perimeter of a platform may include a shape selected from a conic section, a semi-conic section, an oval, a semi-oval, a stadium and a semi-stadium. As an example, a perimeter of a horizontal platform may be circular. As an example, a perimeter of a turntable may be circular.

As an example, a system can include a monitor and a turntable stand assembly where the monitor includes airflow vents and a bumper. In such an example, the bumper can include a first surface to support the monitor in a vertical orientation by contact between the first surface and a horizontal platform of the turntable stand assembly and a second surface to support the monitor in a touch mode orientation by contact between the second surface and a horizontal surface (e.g., of a table, a desk, etc.) that supports the turntable stand assembly and to create a clearance between the horizontal surface and the airflow vents.

As an example, an assembly can include a horizontal platform that includes a perimeter and a vertical axis; a circular turntable coupled to the horizontal platform for rotation of the platform about the vertical axis; a support that includes a column, an extension and an arm joint disposed on the extension, where the column extends vertically from the horizontal platform and where the extension extends from the column at an acute angle and positions the arm joint vertically above the horizontal platform and toward the perimeter of the horizontal platform; a monitor mount that includes an arm joint; and an arm coupled at a pivot end to the arm joint of the support and coupled at a free end to the arm joint of the monitor mount, the monitor mount being pivotable about the free end of the arm.

As an example, a monitor stand assembly can be configured to orient a monitor in a touch mode orientation where a touch screen of the monitor is angled at an ergonomic angle for receiving multi touch input. In such an example, the footprint of the monitor stand assembly (e.g., area) may be smaller than the touch screen area of the monitor and, for example, the mass of the monitor stand assembly may be less than the mass of the monitor. As an example, a touch mode orientation may be a storage orientation for a monitor, for example, as it may be the most stable orientation for the monitor (e.g., consider a monitor supported against an arm which is supported against an angled portion of a support (e.g., an extension, a column, etc.).

As an example, a monitor stand assembly may include a hinge or pivot axis for an arm that is offset from a centroid of a platform of the assembly in a vertical direction and in a lateral direction, for example, via an extension that extends from a column of a support attached to the platform. In such an example, the column may have a height in centimeters while the extension extends at an angle to amplify the height (e.g., a centimeter or more) of the hinge or arm joint. As an example, the angle may be an ergonomic angle that corresponds to a touch mode orientation of a monitor.

As an example, a monitor stand assembly may be configured to achieve various monitor orientations while maintaining the center of mass of a monitor above a platform of the assembly. For example, a platform of an assembly may be made as small as possible (e.g., diameter for a circular platform) while also providing a safety or stability margin (e.g., an annular ring) about which the center of mass of the monitor does not move above. In such an example, the platform may be mounted to a turntable where rotation of the platform via the turntable maintains the center of mass of the monitor above the platform and, for example, within an inner boundary of a safety or stability margin of the platform.

As an example, a turntable platform may be more stable when compared to a turntable support mounted on a platform. For example, consider rotation of a support that is not centered on the platform, which may move the center of mass of a monitor to a position that is not above the platform (e.g., to an unstable position). In such a scenario, to avoid instability, the platform may be enlarged (i.e., its footprint increased). In contrast, where the center of mass of a monitor is above a turntable platform it will remain above the turntable platform as the turntable platform is rotated.

As an example, a support that includes an extension to locate an arm joint near a back end of a perimeter of a platform to which the support is attached may be more stable when compared to a central vertical support that locates an arm joint vertically over a central region of a platform. For example, in the latter arrangement, as a monitor is moved forward, the center of mass of the monitor will move forward and may move close to or past an edge of the platform. In contrast, in the former arrangement, where an arm joint is displaced toward the back end of a platform, a larger margin exists for forward movement of the center of mass of the monitor (e.g., which may remain over the platform).

As an example, a monitor may be part of a computing device (e.g., a tablet, touch monitor computing device, monitor computing device, etc.) or may be a separate device connected to a computing device via a wired connection, a wireless connection or a combination of wired and wireless connections. As an example, a monitor may be connected to a network for display of information received via the network and optionally as an input device to transmit information via the network.

With respect to mass, a monitor may have a mass on the order of about a kilogram to about 10 kilograms, or more (e.g., 1 kg to about 10 kg, or more).

As an example, a monitor can include various circuitry such as one or more processors, memory and one or more interfaces. In general, a machine or monitor may be considered an information handling device (e.g., for at least display of information). Such a device may be configured for one or more purposes selected from a variety of purposes (e.g., media, gaming, drafting, computing, etc.). As an example, an interface may include a power interface, optionally for charging a battery of a machine. As an example, a screen may be considered a visual interface, optionally with touch capabilities to receive input via touch, whether by a user finger or other implement. Further, as an example, touch can include multi-touch and optionally gestures.

The term “circuit” or “circuitry” is used in the summary, description, and/or claims. As is well known in the art, the term “circuitry” includes all levels of available integration, e.g., from discrete logic circuits to the highest level of circuit integration such as VLSI, and includes programmable logic components programmed to perform the functions of an embodiment as well as general-purpose or special-purpose processors programmed with instructions to perform those functions. Such circuitry may optionally rely on one or more computer-readable media that includes computer-executable instructions. As described herein, a computer-readable medium may be a storage device (e.g., a memory card, a storage disk, etc.) and referred to as a computer-readable storage medium.

While various examples of circuits or circuitry have been discussed,FIG. 12depicts a block diagram of an illustrative computer system1200. The system1200may be a computer system sold by Lenovo (US) Inc. of Morrisville, N.C. (e.g., a ThinkStation® system); however, as apparent from the description herein, a satellite, a base, a server or other machine may include other features or only some of the features of the system1200. As described herein, a monitor or machine such as the monitor300may include at least some of the features of the system1200.

As an example, a monitor may include features such as one or more of the features included in one of the LENOVO® IDEADCENTRE® or THINKCENTRE® “all-in-one” computing devices (e.g., sold by Lenovo (US) Inc. of Morrisville, N.C.). For example, the LENOVO® IDEADCENTRE® A720 computing device includes an Intel® Core i7 processor, a 27 inch frameless multi-touch display (e.g., for HD resolution of 1920×1080), a NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 630M 2 GB graphics card, 8 GB DDR3 memory, a hard drive, a DVD reader/writer, integrated Bluetooth® and 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi®, USB connectors, a 6-in-1 card reader, a webcam, HDMI in/out, speakers, and a TV tuner.

As shown inFIG. 12, the system1200includes a so-called chipset1210. A chipset refers to a group of integrated circuits, or chips, that are designed to work together. Chipsets are usually marketed as a single product (e.g., consider chipsets marketed under the brands INTEL®, AMD®, etc.).

In the example ofFIG. 12, the chipset1210has a particular architecture, which may vary to some extent depending on brand or manufacturer. The architecture of the chipset1210includes a core and memory control group1220and an I/O controller hub1250that exchange information (e.g., data, signals, commands, etc.) via, for example, a direct management interface or direct media interface (DMI)1242or a link controller1244. In the example ofFIG. 12, the DMI1242is a chip-to-chip interface (sometimes referred to as being a link between a “northbridge” and a “southbridge”).

The core and memory control group1220include one or more processors1222(e.g., single core or multi-core) and a memory controller hub1226that exchange information via a front side bus (FSB)1224. As described herein, various components of the core and memory control group1220may be integrated onto a single processor die, for example, to make a chip that supplants the conventional “northbridge” style architecture.

The memory controller hub1226interfaces with memory1240. For example, the memory controller hub1226may provide support for DDR SDRAM memory (e.g., DDR, DDR2, DDR3, etc.). In general, the memory1240is a type of random-access memory (RAM). It is often referred to as “system memory”.

The memory controller hub1226further includes a low-voltage differential signaling interface (LVDS)1232. The LVDS1232may be a so-called LVDS Display Interface (LDI) for support of a display device1292(e.g., a CRT, a flat panel, a projector, etc.). A block1238includes some examples of technologies that may be supported via the LVDS interface1232(e.g., serial digital video, HDMI/DVI, display port). The memory controller hub1226also includes one or more PCI-express interfaces (PCI-E)1234, for example, for support of discrete graphics1236. Discrete graphics using a PCI-E interface has become an alternative approach to an accelerated graphics port (AGP). For example, the memory controller hub1226may include a 16-lane (×16) PCI-E port for an external PCI-E-based graphics card. A system may include AGP or PCI-E for support of graphics. As described herein, a display may be a sensor display (e.g., configured for receipt of input using a stylus, a finger, etc.). As described herein, a sensor display may rely on resistive sensing, optical sensing, or other type of sensing.

The I/O hub controller1250includes a variety of interfaces. The example ofFIG. 12includes a SATA interface1251, one or more PCI-E interfaces1252(optionally one or more legacy PCI interfaces), one or more USB interfaces1253, a LAN interface1254(more generally a network interface), a general purpose I/O interface (GPIO)1255, a low-pin count (LPC) interface1270, a power management interface1261, a clock generator interface1262, an audio interface1263(e.g., for speakers1294), a total cost of operation (TCO) interface1264, a system management bus interface (e.g., a multi-master serial computer bus interface)1265, and a serial peripheral flash memory/controller interface (SPI Flash)1266, which, in the example ofFIG. 12, includes BIOS1268and boot code1290. With respect to network connections, the I/O hub controller1250may include integrated gigabit Ethernet controller lines multiplexed with a PCI-E interface port. Other network features may operate independent of a PCI-E interface.

The interfaces of the I/O hub controller1250provide for communication with various devices, networks, etc. For example, the SATA interface1251provides for reading, writing or reading and writing information on one or more drives1280such as HDDs, SDDs or a combination thereof. The I/O hub controller1250may also include an advanced host controller interface (AHCI) to support one or more drives1280. The PCI-E interface1252allows for wireless connections1282to devices, networks, etc. The USB interface1253provides for input devices1284such as keyboards (KB), one or more optical sensors, mice and various other devices (e.g., microphones, cameras, phones, storage, media players, etc.). On or more other types of sensors may optionally rely on the USB interface1253or another interface (e.g., I2C, etc.). As to microphones, the system1200ofFIG. 12may include hardware (e.g., audio card) appropriately configured for receipt of sound (e.g., user voice, ambient sound, etc.).

In the example ofFIG. 12, the LPC interface1270provides for use of one or more ASICs1271, a trusted platform module (TPM)1272, a super I/O1273, a firmware hub1274, BIOS support1275as well as various types of memory1276such as ROM1277, Flash1278, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM)1279. With respect to the TPM1272, this module may be in the form of a chip that can be used to authenticate software and hardware devices. For example, a TPM may be capable of performing platform authentication and may be used to verify that a system seeking access is the expected system.

The system1200, upon power on, may be configured to execute boot code1290for the BIOS1268, as stored within the SPI Flash1266, and thereafter processes data under the control of one or more operating systems and application software (e.g., stored in system memory1240). An operating system may be stored in any of a variety of locations and accessed, for example, according to instructions of the BIOS1268. Again, as described herein, a satellite, a base, a server or other machine may include fewer or more features than shown in the system1200ofFIG. 12. Further, the system1200ofFIG. 12is shown as optionally include cell phone circuitry1295, which may include GSM, CDMA, etc., types of circuitry configured for coordinated operation with one or more of the other features of the system1200.

CONCLUSION

Although examples of methods, devices, systems, etc., have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as examples of forms of implementing the claimed methods, devices, systems, etc.