Support Stands

Support stands are described. An example embodiment of a support stand is moveable between a first, assembled configuration, a second, disassembled configuration, and a third, folded configuration. The support stand has a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall. The first wall has a first wall first height. Each of the second wall and third wall is moveably attached to the first wall. Each of the second wall and the third wall has a first height that is less than the first wall first height and a second height that is greater than the first wall first height. The third wall is releasably attachable to the second wall. The first wall, the second wall, and the third wall cooperatively define a platform for supporting the position of an element that is placed on the support stand.

FIELD

The disclosure relates generally to the field of stands. More particularly, the disclosure relates to support stands.

BACKGROUND

When using a personal computing device, such as a laptop or tablet, a user generally places the device flat on a table top or holds it in an upright position. Both options, however, have drawbacks and can impart strain on the user's body. For example, when placing a laptop on a table top, the laptop is generally below a user's eye level and requires the user to manipulate the position of his or her body to properly use the laptop and view any information displayed on a screen of the laptop. Alternatively, when a device is being held in an upright position, at least one of the user's hands is occupied with holding the device making it difficult to interact with the device. Various stands have been developed that receive electronic devices and position them relative to a user. However, these stands generally have complicated structures that require the assembly of various components before use and fail to provide adequate positioning of the electronic device relative to the user. In addition, these stands are bulky and cannot be stored in a compact configuration.

A need exists, therefore, for new and useful support stands.

SUMMARY OF SELECTED EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Various support stands are described herein.

An example support stand for supporting an element is moveable between a first, assembled configuration, a second, disassembled configuration, and a third, folded configuration. The support stand includes a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall. The first wall has a first wall first height. The second wall is attached to the first wall and is moveable relative to the first wall. The second wall has a second wall first height and a second wall second height. The second wall first height is less than the first wall first height and the second wall second height is greater than the first wall first height. The third wall is attached to the first wall and is moveable relative to the first wall. The third wall is releasably attachable to the second wall such that the third wall is releasably attached to the second wall when the support stand is in the first, assembled configuration. The third wall has a third wall first height and a third wall second height. The third wall first height is less than the first wall first height and the third wall second height is greater than the first wall first height. The first wall, the second wall, and the third wall cooperatively define a platform for supporting the position of the element when it is placed on the support stand.

Another example support stand for supporting an element is moveable between a first, assembled configuration, a second, disassembled configuration, and a third, folded configuration. The support stand includes a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall. The first wall has a first wall first height and a first wall length. The second wall is attached to the first wall and is moveable relative to the first wall. The second wall has a second wall first height, a second wall second height, and a second wall length. The second wall first height is less than the first wall first height. The second wall second height is greater than the first wall first height. The second wall length is less than the first wall length such that the second wall can be folded relative to the first wall to position the support stand in the third, folded configuration. The third wall is attached to the first wall and is moveable relative to the first wall. The third wall is releasably attachable to the second wall such that the third wall is releasably attached to the second wall when the support stand is in the first, assembled configuration. The third wall has a third wall first height, a third wall second height, and a third wall length. The third wall first height is less than the first wall first height. The third wall second height is greater than the first wall first height. The third wall length is less than the first wall length such that the third wall can be folded relative to the first wall to position the support stand in the third, folded configuration. The first wall, the second wall, and the third wall cooperatively define a platform for supporting the position of the element when it is placed on the support stand. The first wall, the second wall, and the third wall are formed of a single continuous piece of material.

Another example support stand for supporting an element is moveable between a first, assembled configuration, a second, disassembled configuration, and a third, folded configuration. The support stand includes a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall. The first wall has a first wall first height and a first wall length. The first wall first height extends along a portion of the first wall length that is greater than one half of the first wall length. The second wall is attached to the first wall and is moveable relative to the first wall. The second wall has a second wall first height, a second wall second height, a second wall length, and defines a slot. The second wall first height is less than the first wall first height. The second wall second height is greater than the first wall first height. The second wall length is less than the first wall length such that the second wall can be folded relative to the first wall to position the support stand in the third, folded configuration. The third wall is attached to the first wall and is moveable relative to the first wall. The third wall is releasably attachable to the second wall such that the third wall is releasably attached to the second wall when the support stand is in the first, assembled configuration. The third wall has a third wall first height, a third wall second height, a third wall length, and defines a projection. The projection is sized and configured to be received in the slot such that the third wall is releasably attached to the second wall when the support stand is in said first, assembled configuration. The third wall first height is less than the first wall first height. The third wall second height is greater than the first wall first height. The third wall length is less than the first wall length such that the third wall can be folded relative to the first wall to position the support stand in the third, folded configuration. The first wall, the second wall, and the third wall cooperatively define a platform for supporting the position of the element when it is placed on the support stand. The first wall, the second wall, and the third wall are formed of a single continuous piece of material.

Additional understanding of the example support stands can be obtained by review of the detailed description, below, and the appended drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description and the appended drawings describe and illustrate various example embodiments of support stands. The description and illustration of these examples are provided to enable one skilled in the art to make and use a support stand. They are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any manner.

FIGS. 1 through 5illustrate a first example support stand10. The support stand10is moveable between a first, assembled configuration, as shown inFIG. 1, a second, disassembled configuration, as shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, and a third, folded configuration, as shown inFIGS. 4 and 5. The support stand10has a first wall12, a second wall14, and a third wall16.

The first wall12has a first wall first end20, a first wall second end22, a first wall length23, a first wall third end24, a first wall fourth end26, a first wall first height27, a first wall outer surface28, a first wall inner surface30, and a first wall thickness31. The first wall length23extends from the first wall first end20to the first wall second end22and is greater than the first wall first height27and the first wall thickness31. The first wall first height27extends from the first wall third end24to the first wall fourth end26. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall first height27is about 4.75 inches. The first wall thickness31extends from the first wall outer surface28to the first wall inner surface30.

While the first wall length23has been illustrated as being greater than the first wall first height27and the first wall thickness31, a wall included in a support stand can have any suitable structural arrangement and selection of a suitable structural arrangement can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of the support stand. Examples of structural arrangements considered suitable for a wall of a support stand include those in which a wall length is greater than, less than, or equal to, a wall height, a wall thickness, and any other structural arrangement considered suitable for a particular embodiment. It is considered advantageous for the first wall first height27to be greater than, less than, equal to, or about 4.75 inches such that an element positioned on the support stand10, as described in more detail herein, is positioned closer to the eye level of the user relative to other stands and prevents the user from having to bend over the element during use, which can improve posture.

The second wall14is attached to the first wall12, is moveable relative to the first wall12when the support stand10is in the second, disassembled configuration, and is releasably attached to the third wall16in the first, assembled configuration. The second wall14has a second wall first end34, a second wall second end36, a second wall length37, a second wall third end38, a second wall fourth end40, a second wall first height39, a second wall second height41, a second wall outer surface42, a second wall inner surface44, a second wall thickness45, and defines a slot46.

The second wall length37extends from the second wall first end34to the second wall second end36and is less than the first wall length23, greater than the second wall first height39, greater than the second wall thickness45, and less than the second wall second height41. It is considered advantageous for the second wall length37to be less than the first wall length23at least because it provides a mechanism for folding the second wall14relative to the first wall12to position the support stand10in the third, folded configuration. Each of the second wall first height39and the second wall second height41extends from the second wall third end38to the second wall fourth end40. The second wall first height39is disposed at the second wall first end34and is less than the second wall second height41and less than the first wall first height27. The second wall second height41is disposed at the second wall second end36and is greater than the second wall first height39and greater than the first wall first height27. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the second wall14tapers from the second wall second end36to the second wall first end34. The second wall thickness45extends from the second wall outer surface42to the second wall inner surface44.

In the illustrated embodiment, the slot46extends through the second wall thickness45and from the second wall outer surface42to the second wall inner surface44. The slot46is sized and configured to receive a portion of the projection62defined by the third wall16, as described in more detail herein.

While the second wall length37has been illustrated as being less than the first wall length23, greater than the second wall first height39, greater than the second wall thickness45, and less than the second wall second height41, a wall included in a support stand can have any suitable structural arrangement and selection of a suitable structural arrangement can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of the support stand. Examples of structural arrangements considered suitable for a wall of a support stand include those in which a wall length is greater than, less than, or equal to, a wall height, a wall thickness, and any other structural arrangement considered suitable for a particular embodiment. For example, a second wall length can be greater than a first wall length in embodiments in which a third wall is disposed between the first wall and the second wall when the support stand is in the third, folded configuration. It is considered advantageous for the second wall14to have a second wall first height39that is less than the second wall second height41and less than the first wall first height27, a second wall second height41that is greater than the second wall first height39and greater than the first wall first height27, and a second wall height that tapers from the second wall second end36to the second wall first end34to provide structure that is capable of supporting an element on a platform64, as described in more detail herein, and prevents movement of the element during use.

The third wall16is attached to the first wall12, is moveable relative to the first wall12when the support stand10is in the second, disassembled configuration, and is releasably attached to the second wall14in the first, assembled configuration. The third wall16has a third wall first end50, a third wall second end52, a third wall length53, a third wall third end54, a third wall fourth end56, a third wall first height55, a third wall second height57, a third wall outer surface58, a third wall inner surface60, a third wall thickness61, and defines a projection62.

The third wall length53extends from the third wall first end50to the third wall second end52and is less than the first wall length23, greater than the third wall first height55, greater than the third wall thickness61, and less than the third wall second height57. It is considered advantageous for the third wall length53to be less than the first wall length23at least because it provides a mechanism for folding the third wall16relative to the first wall12to position the support stand10is in the third, folded configuration. Each of the third wall first height55and the third wall second height57extends from the third wall third end54to the third wall fourth end56. The third wall first height55is disposed at the third wall first end50and is less than the third wall second height57and less than the first wall first height27. The third wall second height57is disposed at the third wall second end52and is greater than the first wall first height27and greater than the third wall first height55. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the third wall16tapers from the third wall second end52to the third wall first end50. The third wall thickness61extends from the third wall outer surface58to the third wall inner surface60. In the illustrated embodiment, the slope of the second wall14and the third wall16are equal to one another and are configured such that when an element is in an opened configuration (e.g., the maximum angle of a display relative to a keyboard is achieved, the element is completely opened) and positioned on the support stand10in the assembled configuration, a portion of the element (e.g., the display) is vertical.

In the illustrated embodiment, the projection62extends from the third wall second end52and is sized and configured to be received within slot46defined by the second wall14such that the third wall16can be releasably attached to the second wall14when the support stand10is in the first, assembled configuration, as shown inFIG. 1. As shown inFIG. 2, the third wall16is free of attachment to the second wall14when the support stand10is in the second, disassembled configuration.

While the third wall length53has been illustrated as being less than the first wall length23, greater than the third wall first height55, greater than the third wall thickness61, and less than the third wall second height57, a wall included in a support stand can have any suitable structural arrangement and selection of a suitable structural arrangement can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of the support stand. Examples of structural arrangements considered suitable for a wall of a support stand include those in which a wall length is greater than, less than, or equal to, a wall height, a wall thickness, and any other structural arrangement considered suitable for a particular embodiment. For example, a third wall length can be greater than a first wall length in embodiments in which a second wall is disposed between the first wall and the third wall when the support stand is in the third, folded configuration. It is considered advantageous for the third wall16to have a third wall first height55that is less than the third wall second height57and less than the first wall first height27, a third wall second height57that is greater than the third wall first height55and greater than the first wall first height27, and a third wall height that tapers from the third wall second end52to the third wall first end50to provide structure that is capable of supporting an element on the platform64, as described in more detail herein, and prevents movement of the element during use.

In use, the support stand10is moveable between the various configurations shown inFIGS. 1 through 5by manipulating the positons of the second and third walls14,16relative to the first wall12. For example, to move the support stand10from the first, assembled configuration to the second, unassembled configuration, the projection62is withdrawn from the slot46, the third wall16is advanced away from the second wall14, and each of the second wall14and the third wall16are moved relative to the first wall12(e.g., such that the second wall14and the third wall16is coplanar with the first wall12). To move the support stand10from the second, unassembled configuration to the third, folded configuration, one of the second wall14or third wall16is positioned between the first wall12and the other of the second wall14or third wall16. For example, the second wall14is advanced toward the first wall12until the second wall14contacts the first wall12and, subsequently, the third wall16is advanced toward the second wall14such that the third wall16contacts the second wall14and the second wall14is disposed between the first wall12and the third wall16. Alternatively, to move the support stand10from the second, unassembled configuration to the third, folded configuration, the third wall16is advanced toward the first wall12until the third wall16contacts the first wall12and, subsequently, the second wall14is advanced toward the third wall16such that the second wall16contacts the third wall16and the third wall16is disposed between the first wall12and the second wall14. To move the support stand10from the second, unassembled configuration to the first, assembled configuration, the third wall16is advanced toward the second wall14and the projection62is positioned within the slot46such that the second wall14is releasably attached to the third wall16. To move the support stand10from the third, folded configuration to the first, assembled configuration, the third wall16is advanced away from the second wall14, the second wall14is advanced away from the first wall12, and the projection62is positioned within the slot46such that the second wall14is releasably attached to the third wall16. Alternatively, to move the support stand10from the third, folded configuration to the first, assembled configuration, the second wall14is advanced away from the third wall16, the third wall16is advanced away from the first wall12, and the projection62is positioned within the slot46such that the second wall14is releasable attached to the third wall16.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand10is formed of a single continuous piece of corrugated material such that each of the second wall14and the third wall16is directly attached to the first wall12and a first folding line66is defined between the first wall12and the second wall14and a second folding line68is defined between the first wall12and the third wall16. When the support stand10is in the first, assembled configuration, the first wall12, the second wall14, and the third wall16cooperatively define the platform64that supports the position of an element that is placed on the platform64(e.g., the support stand10is adapted to support an element, the platform64is sized and configured to support the position of an element when placed on the support stand10). In addition, when the support stand10is in the first, assembled configuration, the first wall12, the second wall14, and the third wall16cooperatively define a chamber65that is sized and configured to house various ancillary devices, such as those used with an element that is positioned on platform64. Examples of ancillary devices that can be housed within chamber65include chargers, batteries, input/output devices, power cords, storage devices, and any other devices considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Optionally, one or more walls of a support stand (e.g., second wall, third wall) can define one or more passageways (e.g., through the thickness of the wall), or notches (e.g., along an end of the wall), that are sized and configured to receive a portion of an ancillary device, such as a power cord.

Each of the first wall12, the second wall14, and the third wall16is sized and configured to interact with and contact an element positioned on the platform64. For example, when an element is placed on the support stand10, the element will contact the first wall inner surface30along the portion of the first wall12that extends beyond the second wall first height39and the third wall first height55. This structural configuration of the support stand10defines a ridge67that prevents movement of the element during use. In addition, the element will contact the second wall third end38and the third wall third end54. Since each of the second wall14and the third wall16has a tapered configuration, when the element is positioned on the platform64it is disposed at an incline that extends upwardly and away from a user during use. Depending on the material forming a support stand and the structural arrangement of a first wall relative to a second wall and a third wall, a platform cooperatively defined by a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall can be sized and configured to support any suitable element. Selection of a suitable element to position on a platform defined by a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of a support stand. Examples of elements considered suitable to position on a support stand include an electronic device, a laptop computer system, a mobile device, a hand-held device, a personal digital assistant (PDA) system, a tablet, and any other element considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

The inclusion of a second wall length37and a third wall length53that are less than a first wall length23is considered advantageous at least because it allows for the support stand10to be collapsible and moved from the first, assembled configuration to the third, folded configuration and placed into a compact storage area, such as a three-ring binder. In addition, it is considered advantageous to include a first wall12that has a first wall first height27that extends along the entire first wall length23, is greater than the second wall first height39, is greater than the third wall first height55, and that is the front most structure on the support stand10such that any element positioned on the platform64is prevented from sliding off the support stand10and from interfering with a user during use. Alternative embodiments, however, can include a first wall that has a first wall first height that extends along a portion of a first wall length, a majority of a first wall length, or a minority of a first wall length, and that is greater than a second wall first height and a third wall first height to provide structure that prevents an element positioned on a platform from sliding off the support stand during use.

While the support stand10has been illustrated as including a first wall12, a second wall14, and a third wall16, a support stand can include any suitable number of walls and selection of a suitable number of walls to include in a support stand can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of the support stand. Examples of numbers of walls considered suitable to include in a support stand include one, at least one, two, a plurality, three, four, five, more than five, and any other number considered suitable for a particular embodiment. While the support stand10has been illustrated as being formed of a single continuous piece of corrugated material, a support stand can be formed of any suitable number of pieces of material and each piece can be formed of any suitable material. Selection of a suitable number of pieces of material to form a support stand and of a suitable material to form each piece can be based on various considerations, including the type of element intended to be supported by a support stand. Examples of numbers of pieces of material considered suitable to form a support stand include one, at least one, two, a plurality, three, four, five, more than five, and any other number considered suitable for a particular embodiment. For example, each wall included in a support stand can comprise a separate piece of material that is moveably attached to another piece of material of the support stand. Examples of materials considered suitable to form a piece, a subset of pieces, or each piece of material of a support stand include plastics, rubbers, wood, bamboo, composite materials, corrugated materials, such as cardboards, hollow corrugated paneling, plastic or foam core aluminum paneling, cloth covered cardboards (e.g., such as book covers), plastic corrugated materials (e.g., Coroplast), lightweight materials, composition paneling, impregnated paneling, foam core board (e.g., Gator Board), expanded PVC paneling (e.g., Celtec, Sintra), plastic paneling (e.g., Nylon, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, polyoxymethylene (e.g., Delrin), elastomeric materials (e.g., PORON), metals, such as titanium, aluminum, any material used for signage, or other lightweight enclosures, combinations of the materials described herein, and any other material considered suitable for a particular embodiment. A support stand can have any dimensions considered suitable for a particular embodiment. For example, a support stand can include a height and width along the front of the support stand, in an assembled configuration, that are equal to, less than, slightly less than, or greater than, the height and width of an element intended to be positioned on the support stand.

While a slot46has been illustrated as being defined by the second wall14and a projection62has been illustrated as being defined by the third wall16as providing releasable attachment between the second wall14and the third wall16, any suitable technique or method of providing releasable attachment between two walls can be utilized. Selection of a suitable technique or method to provide releasable attachment between two walls of a support stand can be based on various considerations, including the material that forms the support stand, or a portion of the support stand. Examples of techniques and methods of providing releasable attachment between two walls of a support stand include defining a slot on one wall (e.g., second wall, third wall) and defining a projection on another wall (e.g., third wall, second wall) that is sized and configured to be received by the slot, using a clip, or pin, that is separate element and sized and configured to be received by a first recess defined by one wall (e.g., second wall, third wall) and by a second recess defined by another wall (e.g., second wall, third wall), using one or more clasps, using one or more fasteners, such as a first magnet attached to, or disposed within a recess defined by, one wall (e.g., second wall, third wall) and a second magnet attached to, or disposed within a recess defined by, another wall (e.g., second wall, third wall) that is sized and configured to attract the first magnet to provide releasable attachment between the walls, such as a first hook and loop fastener attached to one wall (e.g., second wall, third wall) and a second hook and loop fastener attached to another wall (e.g., second wall, third wall) that is sized and configured to mate with the first hook and loop fastener to provide releasable attachment between the walls, using one or more lengths of an elongate member (e.g., rope, string) that are passed through one or more passageways defined by two walls, using an elongate member (e.g., rope, string) attached to a wall and a button attached to another wall, snap-fit configurations, using buttons, and any other technique or method considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Any of the techniques or methods of attachment described herein can be included along a portion, or the entirety, of the height of a wall to achieve releasable attachment. For example, a wall can define a portion that is moveable relative to the wall that includes a first fastener (e.g., hook and loop, first magnet) and the portion can be positioned parallel to a second wall that includes a second fastener (e.g., hook and loop, first magnet) that is sized and configured to attract the first magnet to provide releasable attachment between the portion of the wall and the second wall. The portion of the wall can be positioned on an outer surface and/or an inner surface of the second wall depending on the placement of the second fastener.

While the first wall12has been illustrated as being substantially a rectangular prism, each of the second wall14and the third wall16has been illustrated as being substantially a trapezoidal prism, and the second wall14has been illustrated as having the same structural arrangement as the third wall16, a wall included on a support stand can have any suitable structural arrangement. Selection of a suitable structural arrangement for a wall included on a support stand can be based on various considerations, including the type of element intended to be supported by the support stand. Examples of structural configurations considered suitable for a wall of a support stand include those that are substantially, or entirely, square prisms, rectangular prisms, triangular prisms, trapezoidal prisms, pentagonal prisms, hexagonal prisms, oblique prisms, walls that are planar, walls that are curved along a portion, or the entirety, of its length, walls that have planar ends, walls that are curved along a portion, or the entirety, of its end, structural arrangements that are the same as, or different from, another wall included in a support stand, and any other structural arrangement considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Optionally, any of the walls of a support stand can include customized graphics on the outer surfaces and/or inner surfaces to provide a mechanism to publicly display a message.

While each of the second wall14and the third wall16has been illustrated as being directly attached to the first wall12such that the first folding line66is defined between the first wall12and the second wall14and the second folding line68is defined between the first wall12and the third wall16, a second wall can be moveably attached to a first wall and a third wall can be moveably attached to a first wall using any suitable technique or method of attachment. Selection of a suitable technique or method of attachment to utilize between a second wall and a first wall and between a third wall and a first wall can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of a support stand. Examples of techniques and methods of attachment considered suitable between a second wall and a first wall and between a third wall and a first wall include direct attachments, such as using a single continuous piece of material, living hinges, indirect attachments, such as using hinged attachments (e.g., pins, hinges), rings, magnets, cloths, rubber, cords, wires, leather, molded plastic, shaped metal, any device or element that provides movement of one or more walls relative to another wall, as described herein, and any other technique or method of attachment considered suitable for a particular embodiment. In embodiments in which a support frame is formed of a single continuous piece of material, the material that forms the support frame can be scored at one or more locations (e.g., where folding lines are illustrated herein) to provide movement between the walls of the support frame. For example, the material that forms a support wall can be scored one, two, three, or four times (e.g., two times at a location between the first wall and the second wall (e.g., along the length of the second wall that has a height less than the height of the first wall) and two times between the first wall and the third wall (e.g., along the length of the third wall that has a height less than the height of the first wall)) such that movement between the walls can be accomplished. Depending on the material that forms a support wall, a corner between a first wall and a second wall and/or a corner between a first wall and a third wall can be rounded, include a hard edge, or be multifaceted.

Embodiments of the support stands described herein are considered advantageous at least because they elevate an element placed on the support stand relative to a user. In addition, since the base of most elements (e.g., keyboard portion of laptop, base of laptop) are heavier than a display portion of the elements, the embodiments of the support stands described herein keep the center of gravity low relative to devices that do not include the configurations described herein, which enhances stability and reduces the likelihood that the element will fall.

FIGS. 6 and 7illustrate another example support stand110. The support stand110is similar to the support stand10illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 5and described above, except as detailed below. In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand110has a first wall112, a second wall114, and a third wall116.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall112has a first wall first portion170, a first wall second portion172, and a first wall third portion174. The first wall first portion170extends from the first wall first end120to the first wall second portion172. The first wall second portion172is disposed between the first wall first portion170and the first wall third portion174and extends from the first wall first portion170to the first wall third portion174. The first wall second portion172is sized and configured to interact with and contact an element positioned on the platform164. The first wall third portion174extends from the first wall second portion172to the first wall second end122. The first wall first portion170has a first wall first height171, the first wall second portion172has a first wall second height173, and the first wall third portion174has a first wall third height175. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall first height171is less than the first wall second height173and the first wall third height175is less than the first wall second height173. The first wall first portion170has a first wall first length177, the first wall second portion172has a first wall second length179, and the first wall third portion174has a first wall third length181. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall first length177is less than the first wall second length179and the first wall third length181is less than the first wall second length179. The first wall second length179is greater than one half of the first wall length123. This structural arrangement provides a mechanism for positioning an element on the platform164and maintaining the position of the element such that it is prevented from sliding off the support stand110during use.

While the first wall112has been illustrated as having a first wall first portion170, a first wall second portion172, and a first wall third portion174, a wall included in a support stand can have any suitable number of portions having any suitable height and length. Selection of a suitable number of portions for a wall of a support stand to include and of a suitable height and length for each portion can be based on various considerations, including the type of element intended to be positioned on a platform defined by the support stand. Examples of numbers of portions considered suitable to include on a wall include one, at least one, two, a plurality, three, four, five, more than five, and any other number considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Examples of heights considered suitable for a portion included on a wall include a height that is equal to, greater than, or less than the height of another portion of the wall, an adjacent portion of the wall, and any other height considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Examples of lengths considered suitable for a portion included on a wall include a length that is equal to, greater than, or less than the length of another portion of the wall, an adjacent portion of the wall, and any other length considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

While the first wall second length179has been illustrated as being greater than one half of the first wall length123, a first wall second length (e.g., the portion intended to interact with and/or contact an element positioned on a platform defined by a support stand) can be any suitable length and selection of a suitable length can be based on various considerations, including the type of element intended to be positioned on a platform defined by the support stand. Examples of lengths considered suitable for a first wall second portion (e.g., the portion intended to interact with and/or contact an element positioned on a platform defined by a support stand) include lengths that are greater than, less than, or equal to, a first wall length, less than one half of the first wall length, one half of a first wall length, and any other length considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second wall114is hingedly attached to the first wall112using second wall pin182, is moveable relative to the first wall112when the support stand110is in the second, disassembled configuration, and is releasably attached to the third wall116in the first, assembled configuration using a second wall magnet184. The second wall first height139is disposed at the second wall first end134and is less than the second wall second height141, equal to the first wall first height171, and less than the first wall second height173. The second wall second height141is disposed at the second wall second end136and is greater than the second wall first height139, greater than the first wall first height171, and greater than the first wall second height173. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the second wall114tapers from the second wall second end136to the second wall first end134and has a different slope than the second wall14illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 5.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second wall pin182is partially disposed within the first wall thickness131and partially disposed within the second wall thickness145such that movement between the second wall114and the first wall112can be achieved. The second wall magnet184is disposed within the second wall thickness145and is sized and configured to attract the third wall magnet188, as described in more detail herein, to provide releasable attachment between the second wall114and the third wall116when the support stand110is in the first, assembled configuration.

While the second wall first height139has been illustrated as being equal to the first wall first height171and less than the first wall second height173, a wall included in a support stand can have any suitable structural arrangement and selection of a suitable structural arrangement can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of the support stand. Examples of structural arrangements considered suitable for a wall of a support stand include those in which a second wall first height is greater than, less than, or equal to, a first wall first height, a first wall second height, and any other structural arrangement considered suitable for a particular embodiment. It is considered advantageous for the second wall114to have a second wall first height139that is less than the second wall second height141and less than the first wall second height173, a second wall second height141that is greater than the second wall first height139and greater than the first wall first height171, and a second wall height that tapers from the second wall second end136to the second wall first end134to provide structure that is capable of supporting an element disposed on the platform164and prevents movement of the element during use.

In the illustrated embodiment, the third wall116is hingedly attached to the first wall112using third wall pin186, is moveable relative to the first wall112when the support stand110is in the second, disassembled configuration, and is releasably attached to the second wall114in the first, assembled configuration using a third wall magnet188. The third wall first height155is disposed at the third wall first end150and is less than the third wall second height157, equal to the first wall first height171, and less than the first wall second height173. The third wall second height157is disposed at the third wall second end152and is greater than the third wall first height155, greater than the first wall first height171, and greater than the first wall second height173. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the third wall116tapers from the third wall second end152to the third wall first end150and has a different slope than the third wall16illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 5.

In the illustrated embodiment, the third wall pin186is partially disposed within the first wall thickness131and partially disposed within the third wall thickness161such that movement between the third wall116and the first wall112can be achieved. The third wall magnet188is disposed within the third wall thickness161and is sized and configured to attract the second wall magnet184to provide releasable attachment between the second wall114and the third wall116.

While the third wall first height155has been illustrated as being equal to the first wall first height171and less than the first wall second height173, a wall included in a support stand can have any suitable structural arrangement and selection of a suitable structural arrangement can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of the support stand. Examples of structural arrangements considered suitable for a wall of a support stand include those in which a third wall first height is greater than, less than, or equal to, a first wall first height, a first wall second height, and any other structural arrangement considered suitable for a particular embodiment. It is considered advantageous for the third wall116to have a third wall first height155that is less than the third wall second height157and less than the first wall second height173, a third wall second height157that is greater than the third wall first height155and greater than the first wall first height171, and a third wall height that tapers from the third wall second end152to the third wall first end150to provide structure that is capable of supporting an element disposed on the platform164and prevents movement of the element during use.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first wall112, the second wall114, and the third wall116includes non-slip liners190. A first non-slip liner190is attached to the first wall third end124, a second non-slip liner190is attached to the first wall fourth end126, a third non-slip liner190is attached to the second wall third end138, a fourth non-slip liner190is attached to the second wall fourth end140, a fifth non-slip liner190is attached to the third wall third end154, and a sixth non-slip liner190is attached to the third wall fourth end156. It is considered advantageous to include a non-slip liner on one or more ends of a wall of a support stand at least to prevent slippage of an element positioned on a platform of the support stand and/or to prevent slippage of the support stand relative to the surface on which it is disposed.

While a non-slip liner190has been illustrated as being attached to each of the first wall third end124, the first wall fourth end126, the second wall third end138, the second wall fourth end140, the third wall third end154, and the third wall fourth end156, a non-slip liner, or any other structure, can be included on any suitable number of walls and on any suitable number of ends of each wall. Selection of a suitable number of walls to include a non-slip liner, or any other structure, such as a binder (e.g., plastic, includes structure similar to non-slip liner but does not include non-slip quality), and of a suitable number of ends on each wall to include a non-slip liner, or other structure, can be based on various considerations, including the type of element intended to be positioned on the support stand and/or the type of surface on which the support stand is intended to be disposed. Examples of numbers of walls considered suitable to attach a non-slip liner, or other structure, include one, at least one, two, a plurality, three, four, five, six, seven, a set of walls included in a support stand, each wall included in a support stand, and any other number considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Examples of numbers of ends of a wall considered suitable to attach a non-slip liner, or other structure, include one, at least one, two, a plurality, three, four, a set of ends of a wall included in a support stand, each end of a wall, and any other number considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

Any suitable material can be used as a non-slip liner included on a support stand to prevent slippage of an element positioned on a platform defined by the support stand and/or prevent slippage of the support stand relative to the surface on which the support stand is disposed and selection of a suitable material can be based on various considerations, including the type of element intended to be positioned on the support stand and/or the type of surface on which the support stand is intended to be disposed. Examples of materials considered suitable to utilize as a non-slip liner include plastics, polymers, elastomeric materials (e.g., PORON), foams, paints, adhesives, and any other material considered suitable for a particular embodiment. A non-slip liner included on a support stand can have any suitable structural arrangement and be attached to a wall of a support stand using any suitable technique or method of attachment. Selection of a suitable structural arrangement for a non-slip liner and of a suitable technique or method of attachment between a non-slip liner and a wall of a support stand can be based on various considerations, including the type of element intended to be positioned on the support stand and/or the type of surface on which the support stand is intended to be disposed. Examples of structural arrangements of non-slip liners considered suitable to include on a support stand include elongate members that define a track that is sized and configured to receive a portion of a wall, flexible members that are sized and configured to form to the structural configuration of a portion of a wall, liquids that are configured to form to the structural configuration of a portion of a wall, and any other structural configuration considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Examples of techniques and methods of attachment considered suitable between a wall and a non-slip liner include snap-fit attachments, friction-fit attachments, using adhesives, using one or more fasteners, using one or more hook and loop fasteners, and any other technique or method considered suitable for a particular embodiment. It is considered advantageous to include a non-slip liner at least because it prevents damage, such as scratching, to an element positioned on a platform of a support stand and/or injury to a user during use.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first non-slip liner190that is attached to the first wall third end124, the third non-slip liner190that is attached to the second wall third end138, and the fifth non-slip liner190that is attached to the third wall third end154is a foam material that is sized and configured to form to the structural arrangement of the wall and is adhesively attached to the wall. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the second non-slip liner190that is attached to the first wall fourth end126, the fourth non-slip liner190that is attached to the second wall fourth end140, and the sixth non-slip liner190that is attached to the third wall fourth end156is a rigid plastic material that defines a track that is sized and configured to receive a portion of the wall and is friction fit to the wall.

While each of the non-slip liners190has been illustrated as extending along the entire length of the end to which it is attached, a non-slip liner can be attached to any suitable length of an end of a wall and selection of a suitable length to attached a non-slip liner can be based on various considerations, including the type of element intended to be positioned on the support stand and/or the type of surface on which the support stand is intended to be disposed. Examples of lengths considered suitable to attach a non-slip liner include lengths that are equal to or less than the length of an end of a wall to which the non-slip liner is attached, and any other length considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

In use, the support stand110is moveable between a first, assembled configuration, as shown inFIG. 6, a second, unassembled configuration, as shown inFIG. 7, and a third, folded configuration by manipulating the positons of the second and third walls114,116relative to the first wall112. For example, to move the support stand110from the first, assembled configuration to the second, unassembled configuration, the magnets184,188are advanced away from one another such that the second wall114and the third wall116are no longer releasably attached to one another (e.g., the second wall114and the third wall116are free of attachment to one another). To move the support stand110from the second, unassembled configuration to the third, folded configuration, the walls can be manipulated as described with respect toFIGS. 1 through 5. To move the support stand110from the second, unassembled configuration to the first, assembled configuration, the magnets184,188are advanced toward one another until releasable attachment between the magnets184,188and the walls114,166is accomplished. To move the support stand from the third, folded configuration to the first, assembled configuration, the third wall116is advanced away from the second wall114, the second wall114is advanced away from the first wall112, and the magnets184,188are advanced toward one another until releasable attachment between the magnets184,188and the walls114,166is accomplished. Alternatively, to move the support stand from the third, folded configuration to the first, assembled configuration, the second wall114is advanced away from the third wall116, the third wall116is advanced away from the first wall112, and the magnets184,188are advanced toward one another until releasable attachment between the magnets184,188and the walls114,166is accomplished.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand110is formed of three separate pieces of corrugated material such that that first wall112comprises a first piece of material, the second wall114comprises a second piece of material, and the third wall116comprises a third piece of material. As described above, the first wall112is hingedly attached to the second wall114using the second wall pin182and the first wall112is hingedly attached to the third wall116using the third wall pin186. When the support stand110is in the first, assembled configuration, the first wall112, the second wall114, and the third wall116cooperatively define a platform164that is sized and configured to support the position of an element that is placed on the platform164. A wall pin included in a support stand can be formed of any suitable material capable of providing movement between one or more walls, as described herein, such as wood, metal, plastic, wire, and any other material considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

FIGS. 8 and 9illustrate another example support stand210. The support stand210is similar to the support stand10illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 5and described above, except as detailed below. In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand210has a first wall212, a second wall214, a third wall216, a fourth wall270, and a fifth wall272.

The first wall212has a first wall first end220, a first wall second end222, a first wall length223, a first wall third end224, a first wall fourth end226, a first wall first height227, a first wall outer surface228, a first wall inner surface230, and a first wall thickness231. The first wall length223extends from the first wall first end220to the first wall second end222and is greater than the first wall first height227and the first wall thickness231. The first wall first height227extends from the first wall third end224to the first wall fourth end226. The first wall thickness231extends from the first wall outer surface228to the first wall inner surface230. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall212is substantially a rectangular prism.

The second wall214is attached to the first wall212, is moveable relative to the first wall212when the support stand210is in the second, disassembled configuration, and is releasably attached to the fifth wall272in the third, folded configuration, as described in more detail herein. The second wall214has a second wall first end234, a second wall second end236, a second wall length237, a second wall third end238, a second wall fourth end240, a second wall first height239, a second wall second height241, a second wall outer surface242, a second wall inner surface244, and a second wall thickness245.

The second wall length237extends from the second wall first end234to the second wall second end236and is less than the first wall length223, greater than the second wall first height239, greater than the second wall thickness245, and less than the second wall second height241. Each of the second wall first height239and the second wall second height241extends from the second wall third end238to the second wall fourth end240. The second wall first height239is disposed at the second wall first end234and is less than the second wall second height241and less than the first wall first height227. The second wall second height241is disposed at the second wall second end236and is greater than the second wall first height239and greater than the first wall first height227. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the second wall214tapers from the second wall second end236to the second wall first end234. The second wall thickness245extends from the second wall outer surface242to the second wall inner surface244. In the illustrated embodiment, the second wall214is substantially a trapezoidal prism.

The third wall216is attached to the first wall212, is moveable relative to the first wall212when the support stand210is in the second, disassembled configuration. The third wall216has a third wall first end250, a third wall second end252, a third wall length253, a third wall third end254, a third wall fourth end256, a third wall first height255, a third wall second height257, a third wall outer surface258, a third wall inner surface260, and a third wall thickness261.

The third wall length253extends from the third wall first end250to the third wall second end252and is less than the first wall length223, greater than the third wall first height255, greater than the third wall thickness261, and less than the third wall second height257. Each of the third wall first height255and the third wall second height257extends from the third wall third end254to the third wall fourth end256. The third wall first height255is disposed at the third wall first end250and is less than the third wall second height257and less than the first wall first height227. The third wall second height257is disposed at the third wall second end252and is greater than the first wall first height227and greater than the third wall first height255. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the third wall216tapers from the third wall second end252to the third wall first end250. The third wall thickness261extends from the third wall outer surface258to the third wall inner surface260. In the illustrated embodiment, the third wall216is substantially a trapezoidal prism.

The fourth wall270is attached to the second wall214, is moveable relative to the second wall214when the support stand210is in the second, disassembled configuration, and is releasably attached to the fifth wall272in the first, assembled configuration. The fourth wall270has a fourth wall first end274, a fourth wall second end276, a fourth wall length275, a fourth wall third end278, a fourth wall fourth end280, a fourth wall first height277, a fourth wall second height279, a fourth wall outer surface282, a fourth wall inner surface284, a fourth wall thickness283, and defines a slot246.

The fourth wall length275extends from the fourth wall first end274to the fourth wall second end276and is less than the first wall length223, less than the fourth wall first height277, greater than the fourth wall thickness283, and less than the fourth wall second height279. Each of the fourth wall first height277and the fourth wall second height279extends from the fourth wall third end278to the fourth wall fourth end280. The fourth wall first height277is disposed at the fourth wall first end274and is less than the fourth wall second height279and greater than the first wall first height227. The fourth wall second height279is disposed at the fourth wall second end276and is greater than the first wall first height227and greater than the fourth wall first height277. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the fourth wall270tapers from the fourth wall second end276to the fourth wall first end274. The fourth wall thickness283extends from the fourth wall outer surface282to the fourth wall inner surface284. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth wall270is substantially a trapezoidal prism. The slot246extends through the fourth wall thickness283and from the fourth wall outer surface282to the fourth wall inner surface284. The slot246is sized and configured to receive a portion of the projection262defined by the fifth wall272, as described in more detail herein.

The fifth wall272is attached to the third wall216, is moveable relative to the third wall216when the support stand210is in the second, disassembled configuration, is releasably attached to the fourth wall270in the first, assembled configuration, and is releasably attached to the second wall214in the third, folded configuration. The fifth wall272has a fifth wall first end286, a fifth wall second end288, a fifth wall length287, a fifth wall third end290, a fifth wall fourth end292, a fifth wall first height289, a fifth wall second height291, a fifth wall outer surface294, a fifth wall inner surface296, a fifth wall thickness295, and defines a projection262.

The fifth wall length287extends from the fifth wall first end286to the fifth wall second end288and is less than the first wall length223, less than the fifth wall first height289, greater than the fifth wall thickness295, and less than the fifth wall second height291. Each of the fifth wall first height289and the fifth wall second height291extends from the fifth wall third end290to the fifth wall fourth end292. The fifth wall first height289is disposed at the fifth wall first end286and is less than the fifth wall second height291and greater than the first wall first height227. The fifth wall second height291is disposed at the fifth wall second end288and is greater than the first wall first height227and greater than the fifth wall first height289. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the fifth wall272tapers from the fifth wall second end288to the fifth wall first end286. The fifth wall thickness295extends from the fifth wall outer surface294to the fifth wall inner surface296. In the illustrated embodiment, the fifth wall272is substantially a trapezoidal prism. The projection262extends from the fifth wall second end288and is sized and configured to be received within slot246defined by the fourth wall270such that the fifth wall272is releasably attachable to the fourth wall270when the support stand210is in the first, assembled configuration and is free of attachment to the fourth wall214when the support stand210is in the second, disassembled configuration.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand210includes a first hook and loop fastener302attached to the second wall214and a second hook and loop fastener304attached to the fifth wall272. The inclusion of fasteners302,304provides a mechanism for releasably attaching the second wall214to the fifth wall272when the support stand210is in the third, folded configuration. While a first hook and loop fastener302has been illustrated as being attached to the second wall214and a second hook and loop fastener304has been illustrated as being attached to the fifth wall272, a support stand can include any suitable type and number of fasteners positioned on any suitable wall to achieve attachment between two walls. Selection of a suitable type and number of fasteners to include on a support stand and of a suitable wall to position a fastener can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of the support stand. Examples of numbers of fasteners considered suitable to include on a support stand include one, at least one, two, a plurality, three, four, five, six, and any other number of fasteners considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Examples of types of fasteners considered suitable to include on a support stand include using a clip that is separate element and sized and configured to be received by a first recess defined by a first wall and by a second recess defined by a second wall, using one or more clasps, using a first magnet attached to, or disposed within a recess defined by, a first wall and a second magnet attached to, or disposed within a recess defined by, a second wall that is sized and configured to attract the first magnet to provide releasable attachment between the walls, using a first hook and loop fastener attached to a first wall and a second hook and loop fastener attached to a second wall that is sized and configured to mate with the first hook and loop fastener to provide releasable attachment between the walls, using any suitable technique or method of providing releasable attachment between two walls of a support stand, combinations of the techniques, methods, and/or fasteners described herein, and any other fastener considered suitable for a particular embodiment. Examples of suitable walls to position a fastener that is sized and configured to provide releasable attachment between two walls include on a first wall, on a second wall, on a third wall, on a fourth wall, on a fifth wall, on each of the walls defined by a support stand, on a portion of the walls defined by the support stand, and any other wall considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

In use, the support stand210is moveable between the various configurations by manipulating the positons of the second, third, fourth, and fifth walls214,216,270,272relative to the first wall212. For example, to move the support stand210from the first, assembled configuration to the second, unassembled configuration, the projection262is removed from the slot246. To move the support stand210from the second, unassembled configuration to the third, folded configuration, the second wall214and fourth wall270are advanced toward the first wall212and, subsequently, the third wall216and the fifth wall272are advanced toward the second wall214and the fourth wall270such that the second wall214and the fourth wall270are disposed between the first wall212, the third wall216, and the fifth wall272. Alternatively, to move the support stand210from the second, unassembled configuration to the third, folded configuration, the third wall216and the fifth wall272are advanced toward the first wall212and, subsequently, the second wall214and the fourth wall270are advanced toward the third wall216and the fifth wall272such that the third wall216and the fifth wall272are disposed between the first wall212, the second wall214, and the fourth wall270. To move the support stand210from the second, unassembled configuration to the first, assembled configuration, the projection262is positioned within the slot246such that the fourth wall270is releasably attached to the fifth wall272. To move the support stand from the third, folded configuration to the first, assembled configuration, the third wall216and the fifth wall272are advanced away from the second wall214and the fourth wall270, the second wall214and the fourth wall270are advanced away from the first wall212, and the projection262is positioned within the slot246such that the fourth wall270is releasably attached to the fifth wall272. Alternatively, to move the support stand210from the third, folded configuration to the first, assembled configuration, the second wall214and the fourth wall270are advanced away from the third wall216and the fifth wall272, the third wall216and the fifth wall272are advanced away from the first wall212, and the projection262is positioned within the slot246such that the fourth wall270is releasable attached to the fifth wall272.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand210is formed of a single continuous piece of corrugated material such that each of the second wall214and the third wall216is directly attached to the first wall212, the fourth wall270is directly attached to the second wall214, the fifth wall272is directly attached to the third wall216, a first scoring line266is defined between the first wall212and the third wall216, a second scoring line268is defined between the first wall212and the second wall214, a third scoring line306is defined between the second wall214and the fourth wall270, and a fourth scoring line308is defined between the third wall216and the fifth wall272. Each of the scoring lines266,268,306, and308illustrates the location on the material forming the support stand210that has been scored (e.g., the material has been cut, or scratched, partially through its thickness). When the support stand210is in the first, assembled configuration, the first wall212, the second wall214, the third wall216, the fourth wall270, and the fifth wall272cooperatively define a platform264that is sized and configured to support the position of an element that is placed on the platform264. For example, each of the first wall212, the second wall214, the third wall216, the fourth wall270, and the fifth wall272is sized and configured to interact with and contact an element positioned on the platform264.

FIGS. 10 and 11illustrate another example support stand310. The support stand310is similar to the support stand10illustrated inFIGS. 1 through 5and described above, except as detailed below. In the illustrated embodiment, the support stand310has a first wall312, a second wall314, and a third wall316.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second wall314has a second wall first end334, a second wall second end336, a second wall length337, a second wall third end338, a second wall fourth end340, a second wall first height339, a second wall second height341, a second wall outer surface342, a second wall inner surface344, a second wall thickness345, a second wall first portion347, a second wall second portion349, and defines a slot346.

The second wall length337extends from the second wall first end334to the second wall second end336and is less than the first wall length323, greater than the second wall first height339, greater than the second wall thickness345, and greater than the second wall second height341. The second wall first portion347extends from the second wall first end334toward the second wall second end336to the second wall second portion349. The second wall second portion349extends from the second wall second end336toward the second wall first end334to the second wall first portion347. Each of the second wall first height339and the second wall second height341extends from the second wall third end338to the second wall fourth end340. The second wall first height339is disposed at the second wall first end334and is less than the second wall second height341and less than the first wall first height327. The height of the second wall314tapers from the second wall second portion349to the second wall first end334along the second wall first portion347. The second wall second height341is disposed at the second wall second end336and extends along the second wall second portion349. The second wall second height341is greater than the second wall first height339and greater than the first wall first height327. In the illustrated embodiment, the portion of the second wall third end338that extends along the second wall second portion349is parallel to the second wall fourth end340.

In the illustrated embodiment, the third wall316has a third wall first end350, a third wall second end352, a third wall length353, a third wall third end354, a third wall fourth end356, a third wall first height355, a third wall second height357, a third wall outer surface358, a third wall inner surface360, a third wall thickness361, a third wall first portion363, a third wall second portion365, and defines a projection362.

The third wall length353extends from the third wall first end350to the third wall second end352and is less than the first wall length323, greater than the third wall first height355, greater than the third wall thickness361, and greater than the third wall second height357. The third wall first portion363extends from the third wall first end350toward the third wall second end352to the third wall second portion365. The third wall second portion365extends from the third wall second end352toward the third wall first end350to the third wall first portion363. Each of the third wall first height355and the third wall second height357extends from the third wall third end354to the third wall fourth end356. The third wall first height355is disposed at the third wall first end350and is less than the third wall second height357and less than the first wall first height327. The height of the third wall316tapers from the third wall second portion365to the third wall first end350along the third wall first portion363. The third wall second height357is disposed at the third wall second end352and extends along the third wall second portion365. The third wall second height357is greater than the third wall first height355and greater than the first wall first height327. In the illustrated embodiment, the portion of the third wall third end354that extends along the third wall second portion365is parallel to the second wall fourth end356. In the illustrated embodiment, the projection362includes tapered ends402and curved recesses404that are sized and configured to be received by slot346. The inclusion of the tapered ends402and the curved recesses404are considered advantageous at least because they provide a mechanism for advancing the projection362into the slot346using less force than embodiments in which a projection does not include tapered ends and/or curved recesses. In addition, the inclusion of the tapered ends402and the curved recesses404provide a mechanism for maintaining the projection362within the slot346during use.

The structural arrangement of the second wall314and the third wall316of the support stand310is considered advantageous at least because it provides a mechanism for storing the support stand310in the folded configuration within a notebook such that no portion of the support stand310extends outside of the notebook when the support stand310is stored in the notebook. For example, when the support stand310is positioned within a closed notebook, no wall of the support stand310extends outside of the terminal ends of the closed notebook. This allows for an enhanced storability and portability of the support stand310. Alternative embodiments, however, can be stored in three-rings binders, or any other storage device such that the entirety, or a portion, of a support stand is disposed within the storage device.

While the portion of the second wall third end338that extends along the second wall second portion349has been illustrated as parallel to the second wall fourth end340and the portion of the third wall third end354that extends along the third wall second portion365has been illustrated as parallel to the third wall fourth end356, an end of a wall along a portion, or the entirety, of a length of the wall, can be disposed at any suitable angle relative to another end of the wall and selection of a suitable angle can be based on various considerations, including the intended use of the support stand. Examples of angles considered suitable to position an end of a wall along a portion, or the entirety, of a length of the wall relative to another end of the wall include angles that are parallel to another end, disposed at an obtuse angle to another end, disposed at an acute angle to another end, and any other angle considered suitable for a particular embodiment.

Those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that various modifications and alternatives for the described and illustrated embodiments can be developed in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure. Accordingly, the particular arrangements disclosed are intended to be illustrative only and not limiting as to the scope of the invention, which is to be given the full breadth of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.