Abstract:
An apparatus for supporting modular and cooperating components which includes a base assembly, a work surface, a vertical support pole extending upward from the work surface, at least one bushing concentrically engaging the vertical support pole at a particular axial location, at least one support arm extending radially outward from the bushing, and at least one support surface secured to the support arms in a position substantially orthogonal to the support pole, which minimizes the space requirements for supporting modular and cooperating components, particularly in an office environment. The support apparatus according to the present invention increases the functionality of the modular and cooperating components without exposing the modular and cooperating components to unnecessary risk of harm.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending application Ser. No. 08/786,325, filed Jan. 23, 1997 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,746,334 entitled  Apparatus for Supporting Modular and Cooperating Components , which is a continuation under 37 CFR 1.62 of Ser. No. 08/157,949, filed Nov. 24, 1993, now abandoned which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth. 
     This is a Continuation, filed Oct. 7, 1997 now U.S. Pat No. 6,234,331.  199 A “n&amp;&gt;L A 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates in general to techniques for arranging and supporting modular, cooperating components such as, for example but not limitation, computing equipment, audio equipment, and video equipment. 
     2. Description of the Prior Art 
     Recent rapid advances in the computing industries have been driven largely by a reduction in the price of both processing power and computer memory. One result in the increased availability of inexpensive computing equipment is a tremendous increase in consumer demand for modular computing equipment, such as computers, computer displays, printers, and peripheral devices such as tape back-up devices and CD ROM devices. There appears to be an increased integration of computing equipment with traditional audio-visual entertainment devices, such as tuners, amplifiers, equalizers, video cassette recorders, laser discs, CD audio players, CD video players, and display screens of all types. 
     The computing equipment, audio equipment, and video equipment is still rather expensive and delicate, so conventional cabinet work is frequently utilized for supporting these modular components in the safest possible manner. However, the increased integration of computing equipment, audio equipment, and video equipment necessarily requires increased electrical connectivity between such devices, and it is not uncommon for an operator to frequently reconfigure devices to accomplish a particular short-term goal with such modular equipment. Traditional equipment supporting furniture does not allow easy access to all sides of the modular equipment, in particular the back portions of the modular equipment, and thus frustrates operator-initiated attempts to reconfigure the modular components for a particular purpose. However, since the modular components are still relatively expensive, exposing them to unnecessary risk of damage is generally not considered to be an acceptable risk when compared to the temporal needs of a particular operator. 
     A need exists for a support apparatus for utilization with modular cooperating components, such as computing equipment, audio equipment, and video equipment, which enhances the overall coordinated functionality of these components without unnecessarily exposing the modular components to risk of damage. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is one objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus for supporting modular and cooperating components which includes a base assembly, a substantially planar work surface with a port formed therein, and a vertical support pole extending upward through the port in the work surface, at least one bushing concentrically engaging the vertical support pole at a particular axial location, at least one support arm extending radially outward from the bushing, and at least one support surface secured to the support arms in a position substantially orthogonal to the support pole, which minimizes the space requirements for supporting modular and cooperating components, particularly in an office environment. The support apparatus according to the present invention increases the functionality of the modular and cooperating components without exposing the modular and cooperating components to unnecessary risk of harm. 
     In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base assembly includes a number of frame segments which cooperate to fully support the load of the vertical support pole and any associated modular and cooperating components which are carried by the vertical support pole. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the substantially planar work surface does not carry the load of either the vertical support pole or the modular and cooperating components which are carried by the vertical support pole. Accordingly, the substantially planar work surface may be formed of any conventional or unconventional material. For example, the substantially planar work surface may be formed from glass or from a fairly brittle stone. This is allowed due to the fact that the substantially planar work surface is not a load bearing surface. It is bolted into place relative to the base assembly. All the loads associated with the vertical support pole and the modular and cooperating components are carried solely by the base assembly. 
     In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base assembly is comprised of a plurality of modular corner frame members, a plurality of horizontal tie bars which interconnect the plurality of modular corner frame members, and a pole receptacle member which is coupled to a particular one of the modular corner frame members. In accordance with the particular embodiment discussed herein, each of the modular corner frame members are formed from an upper horizontal frame member, a lower horizontal frame member and first and second spaced apart vertical frame members. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the upper and lower horizontal frame members are spaced apart from one another a predetermined distance. The first and second spaced apart vertical frame members extend between the upper and lower horizontal frame members. Preferably, the upper horizontal frame member includes first and second generally orthogonally positioned framed segments. Likewise, the lower horizontal frame member includes first and second generally horizontal frame segments. Preferably, the first and second generally orthogonal positioned frame segments come together at an apex portion. Additionally, and in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vertical frame members extend between the upper and lower horizontal frame members at locations distally located from the apex portion of the upper and lower horizontal frame members, allowing relatively unrestricted access to the substantially vertical support pole. This is advantageous in that it allows for particular ones of the modular and cooperating components to be placed on a support arm located underneath the substantially-planar work surface. For example, one may want a central processing unit of a personal computer to be located underneath the work surface, while the keyboard and monitor are located on or above the substantially planar work surface. 
     In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of modular corner frame members include a predetermined number of end portions with connection ports formed therein. The plurality of horizontal tie bars terminate in connection members which releasably mechanically couple with the connection ports of the plurality of modular corner frame members. Preferably, the plurality of horizontal tie bars and the plurality of modular corner frame members do not require positive mechanical locks therebetween during ordinary use. 
     In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the pole receptacle member includes a pair of generally orthogonal connection flanges which are adapted in size to extend between particular orthogonal portions of a particular modular corner frame member. A plate member extends between the generally orthogonal connection flanges. A vertically-lined pole sleeve is coupled to (and through) the plate member. The pole sleeve includes a central bore adapted in size and shape to receive the substantially vertical support pole. 
     The preferred embodiment of the support apparatus of the present invention further includes at least one bushing, which concentrically engages the substantially vertical support pole at a particular axial location. Preferably, a plurality of bushings are provided, each disposed at a particular axial location relative to the substantially vertical support pole. Each bushing is rotatable relative to the vertical support pole, but preferably over a predetermined rotation range. 
     Preferably, each bushing includes a hub portion which includes a central bore for concentrically receiving the vertical support pole, a hub pin for maintaining the hub portion in a fixed axial position relative to the vertical support pole, and a bushing insert which is carried within the hub portion, and which includes a particular contoured portion which defines the range of rotation of the particular bushing relative to the base member. More particularly, the bushing insert is adapted to be positioned within the hub portion in a particular orientation. The lowermost portion of the bushing insert extends outwardly of the bushing, and is contoured to provide a surface which slidably engages the hub pin over the predetermined range of rotation. Typically, the region which slidably engages the hub pin is defined by stop members. This contoured configuration is typically referred to as “castellation”. 
     In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the hub pin includes an eyelet portion which is adapted for receiving and securing conductors which extend between the modular and cooperating components. The hub pin also includes a load bearing portion (preferably the shaft portion of an eye-bolt) for engaging the lowermost portion of the hub, and in particular the bushing insert. The hub pin and hub portion engagement serves two functions simultaneously. First, it prevents downward axial displacement of the bushing. Second, it limits the range of rotation depending upon the particular configuration of the base member, as was discussed above. The hub pin thus simultaneously serves three important functions in the present invention. 
     In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of bushing station ports are provided which extend through the vertical support pole, and which define a plurality of possible axial positions for engagement of bushings. In accordance with the present invention, the orientation of the bushing station ports corresponds to the particular base member provided. In other words, bushing station ports are provided at particular positions which ensure that the modular and cooperating components are maintained within the range of support provided by the particular leg configuration of the base member. 
     In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the hub pin is externally threaded at the end opposite the eye portion. A hub pin retainer member is provided, which includes an internally threaded portion, which couples to the hub pin and prevents inadvertent removal of the hub pin. 
     The support apparatus of the present invention further includes at least one support surface, each of which is secured to a corresponding cantilevered support arm which extends radially outward from a particular bushing. Preferably, the support arms are orthogonal to the substantially vertical support pole. Loads are applied normal to the support surface and associated support arm. Preferably, the support surfaces are positioned substantially orthogonal to the support pole and are adapted for receiving and supporting the modular and cooperating component&#39;s particular axial and angular positions relative to the base member and the substantially vertical support pole 
     In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, each particular support surface is pivotally coupled to a selected support arm. Preferably, this support surface comprises a single piece of relatively low profile but sturdy material, such as an aluminum sheet. The pivotal coupling between the support surface and the support arm preferably comprises a coupling bore which extends through the support surface (for sturdy support surfaces, such as wooden support surfaces) at a central location, and a coupling pin which extends to the coupling bore and which serves to secure the support surface to the support arm or into a fastening plate or bracket (for less sturdy support surfaces, such as wooden support surfaces). This coupling allows for full 360° degrees rotation of the support surface, to allow any orientation of the modular components that is required by the operator. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a locking member is provided for fixing the rotational orientation of the support surface relative to the support arm. Additionally, male and female mating members are provided between the support surface and the support arm for slightly impeding rotational movement, and especially for impeding vibration-induced rotational movement, which is frequently present during the operation of such components as impact printers. 
     Additional objectives, features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent with reference to the detailed description which follows. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
     FIG. 1 perspective view of one particular embodiment of the support apparatus of the present invention; 
     FIG. 2 is a pictorial representation of the pole portion of the support apparatus of the present invention equipped with modular computing equipment; 
     FIG. 3 is a side view of the embodiment of the support apparatus of the present invention depicted in FIG. 1; 
     FIGS. 4,  5  and  6  depict an alternative embodiment of the support apparatus of the present invention, with FIG. 5 depicting the apparatus of FIG. 4 with the work surfaces removed, with FIG. 6 depicting the support apparatus with the work surface removed and with the frame member components in fragmentary exploded view; 
     FIGS. 7 a ,  7   b  and  7   c  depict alternative support devices in accordance with the present invention and generally demonstrate the modularity and configurability of the support apparatus of the present invention; 
     FIG. 8 Depiction of the castellation the support bushing of FIGS. 11,  12 , and  13 , which define the range of rotation of the support arm; 
     FIG. 9 is a detail view of an arm bushing which couples a support arm to the support pole in the support apparatus depicted in FIG. 1, seen in cross-section; 
     FIG. 10 is a perspective and fragmentary view of the support bushing, support arm, and support pole which are depicted in FIG. 9; 
     FIG. 11 is a longitudinal section view of the support bushing A and support pole as seen along section line C-C of FIG. 9; 
     FIGS. 12 a ,  12   b,  and  12   c  depict the utilization of the castellation of the support bushing to provide a restricted range of movement of the associated support arm; 
     FIGS. 13 a  and  13   b  depict another utilization of the castellation of the support bushing to provide at least a pair of fixed positions of the associated support arm; 
     FIG. 14 depicts the utilization of no castellation on the support bushing to provide an unlimited range of movement of the associated support arm; 
     FIGS. 15 a ,  15   b , and  15   c  depict the utilization of an eye bolt fastener to secure electrical cables which run between the various modular components of the computing equipment; 
     FIG. 16 detail view of a portion of FIG. 1, depicting a coupling of a support arm and a support shelf of the support apparatus; 
     FIG. 17 is a cross-section view of the detail view of FIG. 16 of FIG. 28; and 
     FIG. 18 is a view from the bottom of the detail view of FIG.  16 . 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of support apparatus  11  of the present invention. As is depicted therein, support apparatus  11  includes base assembly  13  which is adapted for engaging a flooring surface  15  and a substantially vertical support pole  17 . A plurality of bushings  21 ,  23 , each concentrically engage vertical support pole  17  at a particular axial location. A plurality of support arms  27 ,  29  extend radially outward from bushings  21 ,  23  at particular orientations relative to one another, and a plurality of support surfaces  33 ,  35  are secured to the support arms  27 ,  29 , respectively, and are positioned substantially orthogonal to the vertical support pole and adapted for receiving and supporting modular and cooperating components at particular axial and angular positions relative to base assembly  13  and vertical support pole  17 . 
     A substantially planar work space  30  is secured to base assembly  13  through a plurality of bolts or screws  12 . A support pole port  32  extends through a predetermined portion of substantially planar work space  30 . Substantially planar work space  30  does not support any of the loads associated with vertical support pole  17  or any of the modular and cooperating components which may be carried thereon. A receptacle member (concealed in the new FIG. 1) carried the entire mechanical load of vertical support pole  17  and distributes it directly to base assembly  13 . This load can be considerable. 
     FIG. 2 depicts a portion of vertical support pole  17  of FIG. 1, with an additional bushing  19 , support arm  25 , and support surface  31 , supporting modular computing equipment. As is shown, printer  37  is disposed on support surface  31  at a particular axial and angular position relative to base assembly  13  and vertical support pole  17 . Central processing unit and associated mass memories  39  are supported by support surface  35  in a particular and angular position relative to base assembly  13  and vertical support pole  17 . Monitor  41  is supported by support surface  33  at a particular axial and angular position relative to base assembly  13  and vertical support pole  17 . Cabling  43  extends between the modular and cooperating components which make up the data processing system depicted in FIG.  2 . The present invention is not intended to be limited for utilization in supporting components of a data processing system, and is intended to support all types of modular and cooperating components, including audio components and video components. The present invention may be utilized to support a combination of computing, audio, and video components in a particular location, with subgroupings of these components comprising cooperating components, and with not all of the components cooperating together. 
     FIG. 3 is a side view of the particular embodiment of the support apparatus depicted in FIG.  1 . As is shown, vertical support pole  17  may extend any predetermined distance below substantially planar work surface  30 , and may be utilized to support one or more support arms and support surfaces, such as support arm  42  and support surface  46  in order to maintain any particular component of the modular and cooperating components in a substantially concealed position beneath substantially planar work surface  30 . One particular application of this is the positioning of a central processing unit beneath substantially planar work surface  30 , while the keyboard monitor and other input/output devices are maintained above substantially planar work surface  30  and supported by substantially vertical support pole  17 . 
     FIGS. 4 through 6 will now be utilized to illustrate various mechanical features and components utilized in the support apparatus of the present invention. 
     FIGS. 4 and 5 depict one particular embodiment of the support apparatus, with FIG. 4 depicting the apparatus with substantially planar support surfaces in place, while FIG. 5 depicts the same apparatus of FIG. 4 but with the substantially planar support surfaces removed to illustrate various mechanical features and components of the support apparatus. 
     With reference first to FIG. 4, support apparatus  11  includes a base assembly  13 , substantially planar support surfaces  20 ,  30 , a plurality of support pole ports extending at various locations through substantially planar work surfaces  20 ,  30 , and substantially vertical support pole  17  extending through a particular support pole port  32 , and having one or more bushings  19 , support arms  25  and support surfaces  31  coupled thereto. In the view of FIG. 4, a single support arm  25  is depicted for purposes of simplicity. In practice, a plurality of support arms are secured to vertical support pole  17  to locate particular modular and cooperating components relative to one another. 
     FIG. 5 is a pictorial representation of the embodiment of the support apparatus  11  of FIG. 4, but with work surfaces  20 ,  30  removed to allow exposition and depiction of the various mechanical features and components. As is shown, base assembly  13  is composed of a plurality of horizontal and vertical components which cooperate together to support the substantially planar work surfaces and to support the loads associated with the substantially vertical support pole  17  and the modular and cooperating components which are carried thereon. As is shown, a plurality of modular corner frame members  201 ,  203 ,  205  are provided. The plurality of modular corner frame members  201 ,  203 ,  205  are interconnected with a plurality of horizontal tie bars such as horizontal tie bars  207 ,  209 . Modular corner frame member  201  is permanently connected to pole receptacle member  211 . Pole receptacle member  211  includes a substantially vertical and cylindrical pole sleeve  213  which is adapted in size and shape to receive substantially vertical pole  17 . Preferably, the lower portion of pole sleeve  213  is adapted with ports to allow for connecting pin  221  to be passed through ports provided in substantially vertical poles  17  to fix the relative vertical position of substantially vertical pole  17  relative to base assembly  13 . In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a variety of adjustment holes are provided within substantially vertical pole  17  to allow for the raising and lower of substantially vertical pole  17  relative to base assembly  13 . Additionally, pole receptacle member  211  includes a metal plate  215  which is permanently secured to pole sleeve  213  (preferably by weldment). Plate  215  is generally triangular in shape, and has its left and right ends formed into flanges  217 ,  219  which are adapted to be screwed into position relative to frame assembly  13 . Together, modular corner frame member  201 , pole receptacle member  211  and substantially vertical pole  17  provide a rigid, inflexible, and load bearing structure which passes the loads associated with substantially vertical pole  17  at any modular and cooperating components carried thereon throughout frame assembly  13 . The substantially planar work surfaces coupled to the upper surface of base assembly  13  (preferably by screws or bolts at screw holes  86 ) is not a load bearing surface with respect to the loads carried by substantially vertical support pole  17 . As is shown in the view of FIG. 5, plate member  215  further includes cable ports  223 ,  225  which are generally orthogonally aligned with pole sleeve  213 , and which are adapted to be in alignment with the pole port provided in the substantially planar work surface. Cables for the modular and cooperating components may be passed through either of ports  223 ,  225  and the pole port in the substantially planar surface which is directly above either of these. Modesty panels may be secured to the base assembly  13  by bolts or screws at the screw holes  88  which are shown in phantom. 
     FIG. 6 is a fragmentary and exploded view of a portion of the base assembly of FIG.  5 . In particular, in FIG. 6, the relationship between modular corner frame member  201  and the other portions of base assembly is illustrated. As is shown, modular corner frame member  201  includes upper horizontal frame member  251  and lower horizontal frame member  253 . Additionally, modular corner frame member  201  includes first and second spaced apart vertical frame members  265 ,  267 . As is shown in the view of FIG. 6, upper horizontal frame member  251  includes substantially orthogonally positioned frame segments  255 ,  257  which come together at an apex (which is obstructed within the view of FIG. 6 by substantially vertical support pole  17 ). Likewise, lower horizontal frame member  253  includes first and second generally orthogonally positioned frame segments  259 ,  261 , which come together at apex  263 . In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first and second spaced apart vertical frame members  265 ,  267  are located distally from the apexes of the upper and lower horizontal frame members. This allows relatively unrestricted access to the substantially vertical support pole  17  from underneath the substantially planar work surface. Additionally, this allows support arms to be suspended from substantially vertical support pole from beneath the substantially vertical work surface in any location exterior of the base assembly between an arc defined between first and second spaced apart vertical frame members  265 ,  267  which spans (in the preferred embodiment) 270°. The advantage of this relative unrestricted access is depicted in the configuration depicted in FIG. 7 b  which will be discussed below. 
     As is shown in FIG. 6, the modular corner frame member  201  include a predetermined number of end portions with connection ports  281 ,  283 ,  285 ,  287  formed therein. These connection ports are utilized for connection to the horizontal tie members, such as horizontal tie member  209 . As is shown, the connection ports  281 ,  283 ,  285 ,  287  are square (in the preferred embodiment) and sized in a manner which adapts to the male end pieces  291 ,  293  of horizontal ties such as horizontal tie  209 . The male members simply slide in position within the connection ports. No screws, bolts or other mechanical positive locks are required. Also shown in the fragmentary view of FIG. 6, horizontal tie member  301  is shown with male connector  303  adapted for insertion in connection port  287 . 
     FIGS. 7 a ,  7   b  and  7   c  depict a variety of the numerous types of configurations which can be obtained utilizing the support apparatus of the present invention. As is shown in the view of FIG. 7 a , corner base members  401 ,  403  may be utilized to support substantially vertical support poles  405 ,  407 . A substantially planar work surface  409  is secured to the upper portion of the base members  401 ,  403  (including a horizontal tie member) which is obscured in the view of FIG. 7 a ). These substantially vertical support poles  405 ,  407  support shelf  411  which is load bearing. The loads provided through shelf  411  pass through substantially vertical support poles  405 ,  407  to the base members  401 ,  403 , without loading substantially vertical work surface  409 . 
     FIG. 7 b  depicts another embodiment of the support apparatus of the present invention. Modular corner frame members  421 ,  423 ,  425  in the view of FIG. 7 b , modular corner frame member  425  is obscured, vertical support poles  427 ,  429 ,  431 . A variety of support surfaces are suspended from these vertical support poles  427 ,  429 ,  431 , including support arm  435 , shelf  437 , shelf  439  and support arm  441 . As is shown in FIG. 7 b , support arm  441  is placed low within this support unit, in fact below the work surface  451 . 
     FIG. 7 c  depicts yet another configuration of the support apparatus of the present invention. As is shown, a plurality of modular corner frame members  461 ,  463 ,  465 ,  467  and  469  are utilized to support a plurality of substantially vertical support poles  471 ,  473 ,  475  which support a plurality of support arms which are adapted to support modular and cooperating components. A plurality of horizontal tie members connect the modular corner frame members and allow for support of, and connection of, the substantially planar work surfaces. 
     It will be appreciated that the present invention is modular and will support a variety of particular configurations. 
     While the particular orientation of the latching cavities and the key-feed port determine the angular orientation of vertical support pole  17  relative to base assembly  13 , the rotational freedom of the modular and cooperating components supported by the various support surfaces determined by the functional components of the bushing members which circumferentially engage vertical support pole  17  at particular axial locations, as will now be described with particular reference to FIGS. 8,  9 ,  10 , and  11 . As is shown in these figures, bushing  121  includes hub portion  115  which includes a central cylindrical bore  114  which is adapted to receive vertical support pole  17 . As is shown in these figures, hub portion  115  is secured to support arm  117  which extends radially outward therefrom. Bushing  121  further includes hub pin  119  which includes an eyelet portion  123 , a load bearing portion  125 , and an externally threaded fastening portion which is adapted to mate with an internally threaded hub pin retainer member  129  which prevents the inadvertent or accidental removal of hub pin  119  from vertical support pole  17 . As is best depicted in FIGS. 15 a  and  15   b,  eyelet portion  123  of hub pin  121  is utilized to secure conductors which extend between the various modular and cooperating components in a secure position relative to vertical support pole  17 . Returning now to FIG. 11, load-bearing portion  125  of hub pin  119  is utilized to maintain hub portion  115  in a fixed axial position relative to vertical support pole  17 . Also, as is best depicted in FIG. 11, externally threaded fastening portion of hub pin  119  engages hub pin retainer member  129  to prevent hub pin  119  from being inadvertently removed from vertical support pole  17 . As is best depicted in FIG. 11, a plurality of axially positioning holes, such as holes  133 ,  135  of FIG. 11 are adapted in size to receive load bearing portion  125  of hub pin  119 . In this configuration, hub portion  115  bears down upon load bearing portion  125  of hub pin  119 . 
     In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, bushing  121  further includes a bushing insert  137  which is preferably formed of plastic, and which includes a radially reduced portion  139  which is adapted to slide inward of hub portion  115  and be disposed in the space between vertical support pole  17  and interior cylindrical surface  114  of hub  115 , and radially enlarged and contoured lower portion  141 . A female mating notch  143  is provided on the lower lip of hub portion  115 , while a male mating notch  145  is provided on the radially-enlarged contoured portion of bushing insert  137 . When these male and female mating portions are aligned, bushing insert  141  is in its proper alignment relative to hub portion  115 . In FIG. 8, bushing insert  137  is depicted slightly retracted from the interior cylindrical bore  114  of hub portion  115  of bushing  121 ; however, in the view of FIG. 10, the male and female portions are depicted as mating, thus indicating a proper orientation of bushing insert  131  relative to hub portion  115 . As is best shown in FIG. 10, radially-enlarged contoured portion  139  of bushing insert  137  includes a range limiting portion  147  for slidably engaging hub pin  119  over a preselected acceptable range of rotation, with the range limiting portion being defined between stop members, such as stop members  149 ,  151  of FIG. 10 which prevent further rotation of bushing  121 . 
     The one possible configurations are best depicted in the views of FIGS. 12 a ,  12   b ,  12   c ,  13   a ,  13   b , and  14 . The views of FIGS. 12 a ,  12   b ,  12   c , depict hub pin  119  cooperating with castellations or range limiting portions  147  in lower enlarged portion  139  of bushing insert  137 . FIGS. 12 a  through  12   c  illustrate range limiting portions  147  arranged to provide a 30 ° range of motion. FIG. 12 a  illustrates support arm  117  at a 30° orientation relative to vertical support pole  17 . In this 30° position, hub pin  119  abuts the end walls of range limiting portions  147  in lower portion  139  of bushing insert  137 . FIG. 12 b  illustrates support arm  117  in an intermediate position in which hub pin  119  is intermediate the end walls of range limiting portion  147 . FIG. 12 c  illustrates support arm  117  in a 60° position in which hub pin  119  abuts the end walls of range limiting portions  147  opposite from those abutted in the 30° position illustrated in FIG. 12 a . Thus, FIGS. 12 a  through  12   c  illustrate a pattern of crenellations or range limiting portions  147  that restrict movement of support arm  117  to a 30° range of motion. 
     FIGS. 13 a  and  13   b  represent an embodiment of the present invention in which lower end  139  of bushing insert  137  is provided with two pairs of crenellations or range limiting portions  147  that are dimensioned to be coextensive with the diameter of hub pin  119 . Thus, two fixed positions of support arm  117 , a 150° position and a 30° position are selectable, depending on which pair of range limiting portions  147  engage hub pin  119 . In this arrangement, support arm  117  is not freely movable but occupies one of two fixed positions defined by range limiting portions  147 . Of course, any number of fixed positions may be selected, limited only by the ability to provide lower end  139  of bushing insert  137  with range limiting portions  147 . 
     FIG. 14 depicts an arrangement in which lower end  139  of bushing insert  137  is smooth and provided with no range limiting portions. Thus, the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 14 provides for unrestricted movement of support arm  117  a full 360° around vertical support member  17 . In this arrangement, hub pin  119  serves only to maintain bushing  121  in a selected axial or vertical position relative to vertical support member  17 . FIGS. 12 a  through  14  illustrate various arrangements in which movement of support arm  117  about vertical support member  17 . FIGS. 15 a ,  15   b , and  15   c  illustrate the utility of eye portion  123  of hub pin  119  in securing cables  131 , cords, and the like of equipment supported by the apparatus according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 15 b , cords  131  can be secured within eye portion  123  of support hub pin  119  to prevent tangling and catching of cables  131  on other equipment or the apparatus itself. FIG. 15 c  illustrates an alternative arrangement in which the cords are first bundled utilizing a sheathing member  131   a  prior to securing the cables in the hook portions of hub pins  119 . 
     FIGS. 16,  17 , and  18  depict support surface  201 , support arm  203 , and pivotal coupling  211  which includes externally threaded bolt  205 , internally threaded sleeve  207  with beveled seating head  209 , beveled seating washer  213 , and locking member  215 . A coupling bore  217  is provided in a central location in support surface  201 . In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, support surface  201  comprises a low profile sturdy material, such as an aluminum plate. Internally threaded sleeve  207  is placed into bore  219  of support arm  203 . Externally threaded bolt  205  serves as a coupling pin for securing support surface  201  to support arm  203  in a manner which allows  3600  of rotation for support surface  201  relative to support arm  203 . Locking member  205  is provided with a knob component and an internally threaded bore for engaging externally threaded bolt  205  and fixing the position of support surface  201  relative to support arm  203 . Locking member  215  may be loosened or tightened depending upon the operator&#39;s desires for repositioning of the modular component supported by support surface  201 . Since only a very unobtrusive bolt head  221  of externally threaded bolt  205  extends outward from support surface  201 , the coupling mechanism  211  does not interfere with, or impede the operation of, the modular and cooperating component which is carried and supported by support surface  201 . Since coupling bore  217  is disposed in a central location within support surface  201 , an advantageous load bearing configuration is obtained so that pure bending forces are applied through support surface  201  to support arm  203  through a region of support surface  201  which substantially coincides with the center of gravity of the modular and cooperating component which is carried by support surface  201 . 
     The male and female mating members defined by beveled head  209  and beveled washer  213  provide a means for slightly impeding the rotational movement of support surface  201  relative to support arm  203 , which is especially useful in impeding vibration-induced rotational movement of support surface  201  relative to support arm  203  in response to highly kinetic equipment, such as impact printers. This male and female mating configuration allows for infinite rotational adjustability without presenting rotational instability. 
     While the invention has been shown in only one of its forms, it is not thus limited but is susceptible to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof.