Patent Publication Number: US-2005140187-A1

Title: Computer mouse and keyboard support with chair attachment and lap system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
      This application claims the benefit of Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/528,059 filed Dec. 10, 2003, Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/550,863 filed Mar. 8, 2004, Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/559,216 filed Apr. 5, 2004, Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/568,794 filed May 7, 2004, Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/569,934 filed May 12, 2004, Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.60/ ______ filed May ______, 2004, and Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/619,455 filed Oct. ______, 2004, all of which are fully incorporated by reference as if completely set forth herein. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD  
      This invention relates to a computer support system attachable to a chair or desk and that allows the user seated in a chair to comfortably operate a standard computer keyboard/mouse pad or other electronic devices. The system is also removable from the chair or desk to provide support in a lap use environment.  
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
      Traditionally, computer components are arranged on a desktop. The computer keyboard rests on the desk in front of the computer monitor. Alternatively, some computer desks include special keyboard locations, such as retractable surface. The retractable surfaces are mounted to the desktop&#39;s undersurface. Usually, this under-mounted support surface slides in and out on a set of guides/tracks/channels/slots.  
      Another method of supporting a keyboard includes a support surface mounted with a single a single arm generally located in the center of the desk but sometimes offset from the center. These permanently attached under-mount systems are popular with the computer users.  
      With the advent of wireless computer keyboards and mice, a need has developed for a mobile or portable support surface for these items. Although these wireless components/devices are portable, the traditional desk or slide-out under-mounted support surfaces are not. This leaves the user limited options on how and where to rest these components.  
      Take for example the resting place options for a mobile laptop computer: Laptops are generally supported on a desktop or other type of permanent surface, in the user&#39;s hands, in the user&#39;s lap, or balanced across the user&#39;s knees. The posture required to use a laptop supported in these ways is often uncomfortable and unnatural. Furthermore, outside of the mini-mouse pad provided on laptops, no solid support surface is provided for the use of the traditional full-sized mouse, which is still preferred used along side a laptop computer.  
      The present invention is provided to solve the problems discussed above and other problems, and to provide advantages and aspects not provided by prior desk systems. A full discussion of the features and advantages of the present invention is deferred to the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.  
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
      An object of the present invention is to provide a computer support attachable to an external body. The computer support comprises: 
          a first use position wherein the computer support is attached to the external body; and     a second use position wherein the computer support is separated from the external body and is adapted to fit on a user&#39;s lap to support an electronic device.        

      Another object of the present invention is to provide a computer support attachable to an external body. The computer support comprises: 
          a top support means comprising a first surface and a second surface, said first surface joined to said second surface;     a first pivoting means for at least partial rotational movement of said top support about a first pivot point;     an alignment means for moving at least a portion of the computer support along a horizontal plane; and.     a frame means for attaching said top support means to the external body.        

      Another object of the present invention is to provide a computer support that provides a variable workspace for a user. The computer support comprises: 
          first surface positioned along a first substantially horizontal plane;     a second surface offset from and located on a separate horizontal plane than said first surface; and     a pin joining said first surface and said second surface, said pin defining a pivot point upon which said first surface is pivotally mounted to said second surface for rotational movement about said pivot point along said first substantially horizontal plane.        

      Another object of the present invention is to provide a computer support for selective attachment to an external body. The computer support comprises: 
          a top support comprising a first surface and a second surface, said first surface located on a separate horizontal plane than said second surface, said first surface having a first guide therein;     a first pin joining said first surface with said second surface and positioned within the first guide, said first pin defining a first pivot point upon which relative rotational movement between said first surface and said second surface bring said first surface and said second surface into selective substantially parallel alignment;     a second guide extending along a portion of said top support, said pin also located within said second guide wherein traverse of said first pin within said second guide brings said first surface into selective substantially vertical alignment with said second surface;     a second pin between said first surface and said second surface; and     a third guide having a curvilinear shape, said second pin adapted to traverse along a length of said third guide wherein said first surface may be selectively rotated about said pivot point and traversed in a plurality of directions.        

      Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following specification taken in conjunction with the following drawings. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a computer support system attached to a chair;  
       FIG. 2  is a front view of a computer support system attached to a chair;  
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a portion of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a portion of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a portion of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 7A  is a perspective view of a portion of  FIG. 7 ;  
       FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a portion of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a portion of a top support of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a cup holder;  
       FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 12 a  top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 13  is a top view of a portion of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 14  is a side view of a portion of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 15  is a top view of a top support;  
       FIG. 16  is a top view of a top support;  
       FIG. 17  is a perspective view of a mounting system for a computer support system;  
       FIG. 18  is partial perspective view of a mounting system for a computer support system;  
       FIG. 18A  is a perspective view of a U-shaped bracket for a computer support system;  
       FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a cup holder;  
       FIG. 19A  is a perspective view of a spring-loaded pin for attaching a cup holder to a computer support system;  
       FIG. 20  is a top view of a top support;  
       FIG. 21  is a top view of a top support;  
       FIG. 22  is a top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 23  is a top view of a top support;  
       FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a top support;  
       FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a top support;  
       FIG. 26  is a perspective view of a top support;  
       FIG. 27  is a partial perspective view of a mounting system;  
       FIG. 28  is a top view a top support;  
       FIG. 29  is a partial top view of a top support;  
       FIG. 30  is a perspective view of a top support;  
       FIG. 31  is a top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 32  is a top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 33  is a top view of a top support;  
       FIG. 34  is a top view of a top support;  
       FIG. 35  is a top view of a top support;  
       FIG. 36  is a top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 37  is a partial perspective view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 38  is a top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 39  is a top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 40  is a top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 41  is a top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 42  is a top view of a computer support system;  
       FIG. 43  is a top view of computer support system;  
       FIG. 44  is a partial view of a top support showing a pin within a curvilinear guide;  
       FIG. 45  is a top view of a top support in lap position;  
       FIG. 46  is a top view of a chair attached to a frame and a fixed armrest with the top support removed;  
       FIG. 47  is a top view of a computer support system having a secondary tracking system; and  
       FIG. 48  is a side view of a computer support system having a secondary tracking system. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
      While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail preferred embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated.  
      The present invention is directed to a computer support/workstation and system with two specific use positions. The first use position includes a support frame and top support mounted to a chair. This portion of the invention allows the chair occupant a great range of body motion and movement while maintaining close contact with a computer keyboard, mouse pad, laptop or the like. The many advantages of having the above component travel with the chair user, at an arms length away, are numerous and obvious. The second use position described refers to a top support surface removed and separated from its chair mounted support frame. This portion of the invention is as useful, if not more, under certain circumstances.  
      The completely mobile top support surface can be easily carried across a room or an office over in the hands of the user, who then would set the support top on a number of surfaces, including the user&#39;s lap. This portability feature allows the user of a laptop computer or keyboard to add great mobility and stability, versus attempting to balance the smaller sized foot print of these components on their knees or lap.  
      This portable system also provides an armrest with an area to operate a mouse and a writing surface with storage below. Once again, the support top holds the wireless keyboard, mouse, laptop computer or other component at arm&#39;s length for the user, making its benefits obvious.  
      The combination of the two aspects of the present invention, as stated above and within this document, achieved from the one single system, makes this system extremely practical to manufacture and should be desirable to use and to own.  
      Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention are directed to a computer support system. The system allows a user seated in a chair to comfortably operate a standard computer keyboard, mouse pad or other electronic devices while adding great mobility and convenience, not available in traditional computer/keyboard setups. Once the system is adjusted to suit the individual user, the relationship between the user and the system remains the same. The user is able to move freely about a floor area depending on the style of the chair and the space available, while maintaining constant access to the keyboard or such devices.  
      These embodiments include, but are not limited to, three possible applications. First, a chair would come factory equipped with system included. Secondly, the system could be designed for office retrofitting a standard office type chair. This would be accomplished by attaching a wide flat or slightly curved plate to the under side of the chair seat, which typically consists of plywood, plastic, metal, or the like. This flat plate is welded/attached on a 90 degree angle to a vertically telescopic member. Thirdly, the system could be designed to adapt to the standard telescopic armrest that is commonly found on a number of office type chairs. This application could be achieved by removing the screws that secure the padded upper portion of the armrest to the remaining portion. The new system would bolt on using existing holes. The armrest&#39;s original up and down adjustment would eliminate the need for a vertical telescopic member of the system which would be needed for other retrofit or factory installed systems.  
      Embodiments of the invention described within this document relates to the use of a computer keyboard, laptop, note pad, DVD player or other devices, more specifically the support surfaces on which these items rest.  
      An embodiment of the invention provides a solid support surface for computer devices and office supplies during lap use. In addition, the lap use support surface could be equipped to portably mount to the underside of a traditional desk. In essence, this embodiment is comprised of one single support surface which transitions portably between a desk mounted use position to a convenient and comfortable lap use component support surface.  
      In one embodiment, a computer support is attachable to an external body, such as a chair or desk. The computer support comprises a top support means which includes a first support joined to a second surface. A first pivoting means provides for at least partial rotational movement of the top support about a pivot point. An alignment means is provided for moving at least a portion of the computer support along a horizontal plane, and a frame means is provided for attaching the support means to the external body.  
      The alignment means may provide for drawing the computer support in a north to south direction relative to a user. Alternatively, or in addition to north to south movement, the alignment means may be provided for bringing the surface into substantial parallel alignment with the second surface (e.g., relative rotational movement aligns the two surfaces in parallel).  
      The pivoting means may be a hinge or pin/guide (as in a track, slot, or channel) arrangement.  
      In the pin/guide arrangement, the pin joins the first surface to the second surface. The pin is located within the guide and is capable of rotating and traversing within the guide. The alignment means may include a second pin and a curvilinear guide wherein the second pin is located within curvilinear guide and traverses therein. This alignment means selectively brings the first surface and the second surface into substantially vertical alignment.  
      In another embodiment, a computer support provides a variable workspace for a user. The computer support comprises a first surface positioned along a first substantially horizontal plane, a second surface offset from and located on a separate horizontal plane than the first surface; and a pin joining the first surface and the second surface. The pin defines a pivot point upon which the first surface is pivotally mounted to the second surface for rotational movement about Lie pivot point along the first substantially horizontal plane. A guide is adapted for receiving a portion of the pin. At least one portion of the guide is in substantial alignment with the second surface, and the pin is adapted for traversing the at least one portion of the guide. This embodiment may also include a mounting system for attaching the computer support to a chair. The mounting system may include a first bracket attached to the second surface, and a second bracket having a first portion attached to the first bracket and a second portion for attachment to a chair. The mounting system may include a frame attachable to the first bracket. The frame provides structural support for the first and second surfaces. Accordingly, the frame includes a first member located beneath the first surface and a second member generally transverse to the first member and located beneath the second surface. This embodiment may further include a second pin and a curvilinear guide. The second pin joins first surface and said second surface. The curvilinear guide is adapted for receiving the second pin wherein the second pin traverses within the curvilinear guide.  
      Yet another embodiment of the present invention provides a computer support system for selective attachment to an external body, such as a desk or a chair. The computer support system comprises a top support comprising a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is located on a separate horizontal plane than the second surface. A first pin joins the first surface with the second surface. The first pin defines a first pivot point upon which relative rotational movement between the first surface and the second surface bring the first surface and the second surface into selective substantially parallel alignment. A second guide extends along a portion of the top support. The pin is also located within the second guide wherein traverse of the first pin within the second guide brings the first surface into selective substantially vertical alignment with the second surface. A second pin is located between the first surface and the second surface. A third guide has a curvilinear shape. The second pin is adapted to traverse along a length of the third guide. The first surface may be selectively rotated about the pivot point and traversed in a plurality of directions.  
      The various embodiments will become more clear with reference to the Figures as set forth below.  
       FIGS. 1-3  are illustrations of a computer support system or support system  10  (“the system”) of the present invention. The system  10  is illustrated in use with, as in attached to, a chair  11 . It is contemplated that the system  10  may be supplied with, as permanently attached to, or retrofit, as in selectively attached to, an office chair  11  or the like. As will be described in more detail below, the system  10  can be separately removed from the chair  11  for use in other relaxing positions.  
      The system  10  is adapted for arranging a computer mouse, keyboard, laptops, or other personal electronic devices. The system includes a top support  14  comprising a pair of surfaces  16 ,  18  having hinges  20 ,  21  for clockwise or counterclockwise rotation about the hinges  20 ,  21 . Accordingly, the surfaces  16 ,  18  may be lifted and a storage area  22 , designed to accommodate recessed trays for pens, pencils, compact discs. etc. may be located under surfaces  16 ,  18 . The top support  14  may also be pivoted about a hinge  21  to facilitate entry or exit from the chair  11 . The movement is indicated by an arrow on  FIG. 2 . The top surface  14  also includes an alignment means that allows north to south (or in, towards a user, and out, away from a user) movement of the top surface  14 . This movement is indicated by an arrow on  FIG. 1 .  
      Additionally, surfaces  16 ,  18  may slide out to accept other size devices, laptops etc. An under support surface area could also accommodate a. pull out drawer. This auxiliary support surface/drawer could also act as an area to rest one&#39;s wrists while operating the keyboard. A slide out surface to accept mouse pad for left handed users may also be included.  
      The system may include an under seat mounted side saddlebag. This storage area could be used in conjunction with the system  10 . It would make for convenient storage of the keyboard, laptop, schoolbooks, etc.  
      It should be understood that the top support  14  can be many shapes and sizes to accomplish its task, and the invention primarily lies in its workings than its appearance. Furthermore, it is also understood that the above mentioned top support  14  could also be used not only to support other devices, but as a convenient working and writing area, using traditional means for writing or the new electronic type computer pens.  
      The system  10  is capable of movement in many directions to accommodate comfort of the user, preferably one of the movements includes a north to south motion to move the top support  14  closer to or farther away from a user.  FIG. 3  shows a side view of a third position with the top support  14  opened for access to the storage within. On some models this hinged storage feature may be excluded. Furthermore, other systems (models) may include storage in the second surface/armrest  18  only. This would allow on some models the support surface which holds the keyboard or devices to telescope or fold next to or into the armrest  18 , mouse pad support area.  
      Referring to  FIG. 3 . several arrows illustrate various movements of the system  10 . The system  20  may tilt or pivot about hinge  21 , allowing for comfortable chair entering and exit. The mouse pad and keyboard could be secured to the first surface  16  using a number of commonly available attachment means, for example, Velcro, suction cup, adjustable clamps, sliding clamps, etc., or would rest against a raised edge on the first and second surfaces  16 ,  18 . The top support  14  also moves in a north to south orientation for the comfort of the user.  
       FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the system  10  showing various directional movements illustrated with arrows. A first telescopic subsystem  26  allows up and down vertical movement. The telescopic subsystem  26  may include rectangular members lengthwise with the armrest  18  to achieve more strength to the keyboard or the like. A receiving member (outer)  26   a  may also include a reverse spring to aid in the raising up of the system  10 . Furthermore, this vertical telescopic member  26   a  may also consist of a pneumatic lift similar to the type found on adjustable swivel chairs.  
      A second telescopic subsystem  28  allows the system  10  to forward and backward in a substantially horizontal motion along a horizontal plane away and towards a user seated in the chair. This subsystem  28  allows for north and south adjustment in relationship to a seated user.  
      As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the top surface  14  is supported by transverse support members  30 ,  32  which are pivotally mounted. A mounting  33  for attachment to a chair is attached to the first telescopic subsystem  26 .  
      Options for mounting the surface  18  are illustrated in  FIGS. 5-8 .  FIG. 5  is an illustration of a third telescopic subsystem  29  for lateral movement of the system  10 , as in right-to-left/left-to-right movement.  FIG. 6  illustrates a pivoting system about pivot joint  34 .  FIGS. 7 and 7   a  illustrate a swing arm support system  36 . Also, this embodiment includes a bendable swing arm system  38  with a disk suction cup  40  as a means to attach keyboard or other devices. The suction cup  40  would be similar to the type used in the window glass and/or car dent puller industry. This swing arm/suction cup would fold and store into the offset (raised) armrest. Detail of a typical swing arm connection is illustrated in  FIG. 7   a .  FIG. 8  illustrates a variation of a swing arm  42  and suction cup  40  or other attachable means disk.  
       FIG. 9  shows a first surface  16  and a portion of a second surface  18 . This arrangement may include a hinged offset  44  which allows mouse pad surface to be higher in relationship to the keyboard. This offset  44  also forms curb to hold keyboard during tilt position. The offset or raised edge  44  allows the mouse, and keyboard to remain on the surface  16  as it is tilted. The position of this hinge  44  allows the keyboard surface  16  to tilt up for chair entry, while the mouse pad/armrest remains in its standard first use position.  
      An optional hinged cup holder  48  is illustrated in  FIG. 10 . The cup holder  48  can be attached to one of the transverse support member  30 ,  32 , wherein the cup holder  48  pivots about a hinge  50 . The hinge  50  allows the cup holder  48  to remain in the proper position as the member  30 ,  32  to which it is attached is pivoted.  
       FIG. 11  is an alternate embodiment of the system  10  for retrofit or factory installed applications. This system includes a mouse pad armrest area.  18 . A vertical adjustment  62  for the elbow rest portion of the armrest  18  allows the user to raise and lower the system  10 . A second supporting surface  16  for supporting a keyboard has a tiltable adjustment  65 . Telescopic adjustment  66  allows the user to position the keyboard comfortably. An under seat attachment method  70  for this particular model consisting of semi-circle flap strapping looped over structural members and secured by common means to an underside of the chair  11 . If not all, a number of the parts of this invention would be built for universal application, allowing for left or right side of chair attachment.  
      This invention&#39;s parts would be made of materials commonly used for the above mentioned applications. Including but not limited to various forms or metals, plastics, fiberglass, and wood.  
       FIG. 12  shows an overheard view of a system  10  of the present invention mounted to a chair  11 . This system  10  includes top support  74  including keyboard surface  76  and armrest  78 . A diagonal hinge  80  allows for a storage area beneath armrest  78 .  
       FIG. 13  shows a top support  74  resting on a support frame  82 , generally L-shaped. The heavier dotted line, outlines an open recessed, channeled area  84 . The supporting frame  82  slides in, left and right, of the seated chair user, to align the keyboard as desired. A friction fit U-shaped engaging bracket  86  holds the hinged armrest top closed. This is shown in more detail in  FIG. 14 . To remove the complete top support  74  from the support frame  82 , the user disengages the U-shaped bracket  86  by lifting the corner of the top, opposite the hinged side, and then sliding the entire top  74  all the way to the left.  
      Frame  82  includes end  88 . End  88  fits within retainer  90  which is located on the underside of top support  74 . The end  88  is typically a four-sided structure. The end  88  slides out of the 4-sided retaining area  90  when the top support  74  is slid to the left to remove top  74  completely from this support frame  82 .  
       FIG. 15  shows an overhead view of a top surface  74 . The top surface  74  includes a recessed beverage holder  94 . An outline of a keyboard is denoted by dashed line  96 . A recessed storage area  98  is located below beneath surface  76 . Likewise, a recessed computer mouse or other storage area  100  is on the upper hinged armrest  78 . A mouse pad  102  is designated by dotted lines. The top surface  74  also includes adjustable outside corner stops  104  to hold a standard keyboard.  
      Referring to  FIG. 16 , the armrest surface  78  is shown hinged open. An adjustable slide stop  105  is provided to secure a laptop computer  96  or other device. The laptop  96  is shown in dotted lines. The underside  106  of the hinged armrest  78  is visible when the armrest  78  is open. A storage area  108  is located beneath the armrest  78 .  
       FIG. 17  shows frame  82  as part of a chair mounting system  110 . The mounting system  110  includes telescope member  112  on which top support  74  rests. The telescope member  112  allows in and out movement of the top support  74  so the user can allows the chair system user to adjust the top support  74  closer or farther away from his/her body. The mounting system  110  further includes a receiver  113  through which the telescoping member  112  is received and attached. The receiver  113  includes a hinge  114 . This hinge  114  allows the top support  74  to be pivoted upwardly and clockwise (designated by  116 ) about the hinge  114  so the user may enter and exit the chair.  
      The receiver  113  is fit within an outer receiving member  118  for vertical (up and down) telescopic movement. A spring stop knob  120  or other similar means maintains the receiver  113  at the proper chosen level. Once again, there are many options to accomplish the up and down movement. (spring assisted, pneumatic leveling. etc.).  
      The mounting system  110  includes a first bracket or plate  122  for mounting to a chair with bolts, rivets, screws, epoxy, welding or the like. The first bracket  122  includes a receiver channel  124  a bracket portion  125  of the receiver member  113 . The receiver  113  is attached to the channel  124  using conventional attachment means. In the embodiment illustrated, six or so short, heavy self tapping screws  126  are provide to attach the first bracket  122  to a chair. Four or more machine bolts  128  are slid up through bracket  122  through springs  130  to threaded nuts  132 .  
      Now referring to  FIG. 18 , an alternative method for attaching a keyboard or the like, via a hinged channel  134 . A mating channel member  136  is adhesively attached to the underside of the keyboard and slid or snapped into place.  
      U-shaped bracket  138  is attached top the underside of the top support  74 , and mates with telescopic support frame member  112 .  
      The above stated mounting bracket system  110  accomplishes two important mounting issues. First, the through bolted adjustable bracket allows the system to be mounted to varied styles of seat designs. Typically, task style chair seats curve up on the sides to form a dished surface. The travel between bracket  122  and receiver  113  (90 degree angle bracket) allows the frame  82  to be mounted under a chair seat, whether it be flat or curved upwards and at any degree. Secondly, the spring-loaded bolts absorb, to a certain extent most accidental downward or upward undo pressure applied to the cantilevered top.  
      Now referring to  FIG. 19 , a cup holder  140  is illustrated. The cup holder  140  includes a spring stop mechanism  142  for attachment to the frame  82 . The cup holder further includes an over the top, snap on bracket  144 , which attaches to the frame  82 . When the frame  82  is tilted as per arrow  146 , the beverage remains in upright position. This is accomplished by a pivotal bracket connection. The cup holder  140  also includes a bump into notch system  150  to hold the bracket  144  from sliding from side to side. The bumps  152  are illustrated best in  FIG. 19   a.    
       FIG. 20  is an illustration of the top support  74  removed from the chair. This figure represents a different use position for the system  10  which allows the user to utilize the top support  74  in a location other than the chair. Here, the telescopic member  112  is removed completely from the receiving member  113 . The L-shaped frame  82  is then flipped over 180 degrees and inserted into a tight friction fit area. The hinged armrest  78  is then closed so as to engage bracket  138 , which is also a friction fit bracket. A slip-on foam pad  156  may be provided to rest on the user&#39;s lap when using the system  10  after it has been removed from the chair. (See also  FIG. 21 ). The top support  74  may include recesses areas  158  on an underside for a resting support surface on the user&#39;s knees.  
       FIG. 21  shows an over head view of the system  10  in use, resting on a user&#39;s lap after its been removed from the chair.  
       FIG. 22  shows a top support  74 . In this embodiment, the mounting system  110  has a shortened horizontal support frame  162 . Here, the frame  82  remains attached to the chair when the top support  74  is removed from the chair. This shorter frame  162  allows for easier access and exiting from the chair seat. Further to this embodiment, the mounting system  110  includes a receiver  164  for receiving a telescopic member  166  located on the mounting system  110  for fixing the overall system  10  to a chair. A slide stop mechanism  169  guards against misaligning the top support  72  with the mounting system  110 . This embodiment also includes a shorter thigh rest bar. In operation, this version slides in and out along the receiving member  164 . This also can serve as a carrying handle when in the second use position.  
      The embodiment of  FIG. 23  is similar to that of  FIG. 22 . However, this embodiment includes a pivoting support frame member  172  which pivots and slides to become a thigh rest. Another version has a mirrored image structural support piece to match and nest with support frame and fold open (butterfly) to become a thigh rest. Another version has the complete frame piece (L-shape) being one and sliding in and out.  
       FIG. 24  illustrates a top surface  74  having a built-in flip up monitor screen  178  for computer or DVD use. The advantage to having a smaller screen offset and to the side of the keyboard is that its presence is unobtrusive.  
       FIG. 25  illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment includes a hinge  180  between a first surface  76  and an armrest  78 . The hinge  180  can be locked for lap use. This embodiment includes raised curb/stops  186  to hold a keyboard in place. Also, the bumpers may include spring-loaded squeeze members on one or both sides  181 . This function can also be accomplished by other commonly known means such as stop knobs or other etc. The armrest  78  includes a mouse holder  188 , a beverage holder  190 , and a plurality of pen, pencil (electronic) or other storage receptacles  192 . The first surface  76  includes a shallow storage area  194 . A stabilizer  196  may pivot outwardly from the armrest  78  for resting upon the users thigh for lap use.  
      The embodiment of  FIG. 26  is similar to the embodiment of  FIG. 25 . Here, the first surface  76  includes a graduated curb stop  198  to accommodate various sized devices on which to rest or against which to abut. The armrest  78  includes a curved cut out top  200  to expose a beverage holder  202  below. The armrest  78  further includes a hinged mouse pad storage area  204 .  
       FIG. 27  is an illustration of a mounting system  110  for the system. The mounting system  110  has clamping locations in at least two points to squeeze a chair seat  210  for attaching the mounting system  110  to the chair  11 . The squeezing application would be achieved by commonly known means including, but not limited to, clamps, wing nut and bolts, or caulk gun type mechanism, etc.  
      The mounting system  110  includes an upper bracket  207  having a first stabilizing flange  212  which rests on the upper seat portion of the chair  11 . A second stabilizing flange  214  extends downwardly from the first flange  212  to form an L-shape. The second flange  214  is located along an edge of the chair  210 . A separate lower bracket  216  is fixed to the bottom of the chair  217 . The lower bracket  216  include an upwardly extending flange  218  which is joined to the second stabilizing flange to connect the upper bracket  207  to the lower bracket  216 . The upper and lower brackets may be attached using any fastening option, nut and bolt or the like and would in at least two locations, attaching L-shaped top seat bracket to the L-shaped under bracket. A plurality of vertical support frame members  220  extend upwardly for added stability.  
       FIG. 28  illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment includes a top support  74  including a first longitudinal surface  76  adapted for extending along the front of a chair. An armrest  78  extends along one side of the chair  11  to form a generally L-shaped structure in use. Arrows indicate the movement of the top support  74 .  
       FIGS. 29-30  illustrate movement of the first surface  76 . The first surface  76  pivots and slides for chair seat entering and exiting. The first surface  76  pivots about a pivot point  238  until it is substantially in line with (parallel) and above the armrest  78 . A pin  239  joins the first surface  76  with the armrest  88  and traverses within a guide  242  for alignment. The first surface  76  can be traversed toward the rear of the chair  11  substantially over the armrest  78 . In other words, the first surface  76  pivots away from the user, and then or simultaneously slides back toward the rear of the chair occupant to overlay in substantially vertical alignment with at least a portion of the mouse pad/armrest area  78 . This embodiment can be attached to a chair or a desk using any conventional means for attachment, including but not limited to a retractable arm, a type of which is commonly provided with permanently mounted under-desk keyboard supports.  
      Similar to other embodiments, this system includes a mouse pad area.  240 , and any number of cup holders, storage recesses, pen holders, etc. Accordingly, the first surface  76  and the armrest  78  include hinges for lifting upper members under which the storage recess etc. may be located. This embodiment may be equipped to portably mount to the underside of a traditional desk, similar to a conventional pull-out keyboard drawer or retractable arm mount-style. The first surface  76  could include features not found on a typical under-mount style keyboard tray. In essence, this embodiment is comprised of one single support surface which can transition portably between a desk mounted use position to a convenient and comfortable lap use.  
       FIGS. 31 and 32  illustrate how the system  10  first surface  76  may pivot and overlay the armrest  78 . The top support  74  includes a tracking (guide) member  242 , such as a channel, slot, or track. The tracking member  242  is mounted along an inside edge of the armrest  78 . The tracking member  242  may be a channel wherein a downwardly extending pin  244  mounted to the underside of the first surface  76  may traverse within the channel  242 . The pin  244  may also travel with a guide or slot  245  located within the first surface  76  for left to right and/or north to south movement as an alignment means. Accordingly, the guide  245  may be L-shaped as illustrated in  FIG. 32 .  
      The first surface  76  of this embodiment and the embodiments that follow is joined to the second surface at least by pin  244  offset on a separate substantially horizontal plane than the second surface  78 , preferably on a higher plane. This method allows the first surface  76  to slide and overlap the second surface  78 ; i.e. pivot or rotate along a horizontal plane, preferably the horizontal plane on which the first surface  76  is positioned. The sliding and overlapping application requires no significant fastening demands as these components merely rest upon the system&#39;s top support  74 .  
       FIGS. 33 and 34  show the top support  74  removed from the chair or desk mounted framework in its portable or lap rest use position.  FIG. 33  shows the mouse pad  250  and armrest  78  rotated approximately 90 degrees on the pivot  238 , revealing an auxiliary area of mouse pad  250  where as the right side of the armrest  78  (when chair mounted) rotates to become a thigh rest for lap use.  FIG. 34  shows the combination mouse pad and thigh rest tracking north and south to adjust location in reference to the keyboard support surface to best suit the user.  
      The embodiment of  FIGS. 35-36  is similar to the embodiments of  FIGS. 31-34 . The most significant variation is that this embodiment has the first surface  76  and the mouse pad surface  250  as one on the same horizontal plane and traveling together. The advantage of having the first surface  76  as one is that when the first surface  76  is tracked to the side of the chair  11  and is overlaying the armrest  78 , the mouse and mouse pad  250  are still accessible.  
      In  FIG. 36  the system  10  first surface  76  is adjusted east and west or left and right of the seated chair user. This is accomplished as first surface  76  includes an L-shaped slot/channel  245 , which acts as a further alignment means. Armrest  78  includes slot/channel  242  transverse to slot  245 . Pin  244  is snug fir within the guides  245 ,  242  for reliable traversing through same. This allows for east to west (or right to left) movement along a substantially horizontal plane within or along guide  245  and north to south (or in and out) movement along a substantially horizontal plane within or along guide  242 .  
       FIG. 37  illustrates a variation of a telescopic member as previously described. A portion of the armrest  78   a  remains permanently attached to a chair mounted support framework  110 . Another portion of the armrest  78   b  is removable from the framework  110  along with the first surface  76 , and abuts the fixed portion of the armrest  78   a  when the attached to the framework  110 . Arrow  274  shows slideable north and south adjustment along a substantially horizontal plane in relationship to a seated chair user. Arrow  276  shows the slideable travel for pin  244  in track/slot  245 . Member  282  is permanently attached to the support framework  110 . Member  282  generally includes a flange  282   a  extending horizontally outward relative to a seated user and a smaller flange  282   b  extending in an opposite direction, horizontally inward relative to a seated user. Member  282  is adapted to friction fit within guide or channel  283  located on the underside of armrest  78   b . Accordingly, guide  283  includes a larger lip  283   a  for engaging larger flange  282   a , and smaller lip  283   b  for engaging smaller flange  283   b . By lifting top support  74  as arrow  286  and sliding slightly, the top support  74  is detached from chair mounted framework  110  and is ready for portable use.  
      Referring to  FIGS. 38-45 , the embodiment as previously described further includes additional pin  330  that traverses through curvilinear guide  332  providing still further alignment means. This contact point enhances the strength of the cantilevered keyboard first surface  76  and provides an additional pivot point. The curvilinear shape of guide  332  also allows the top surface  74  to traverse in a north to south (in and out) component along a transverse substantially linear portion of the guide  332  and/or in a motion that has both north to south (towards and away relative to a seated user) and east to west (left to right relative to a seated user) components as pin  330  traverses along an arcuate portion of guide  332 .  
       FIG. 39  shows the first surface  76  rotated away from the user. This is accomplished by the top pivoting on pin  244 , and pin  330  traveling inside or along edge of guide  332 .  
       FIG. 40  shows the pivot pin  244  traveling in track  242  (as previously submitted) to further adjust keyboard support overlaying mechanism. This motion may be carried out simultaneously, as first surface  76  is pivoted outwardly.  
      This motion reveals the cantilever support pin  330  tracking location. This area of invention aids secondary support. Pin  330  disengages as the first surface moves to overlay the armrest  78 . Tracking may also run along the outside edge of the underlying support structure, as well as a number of other commonly known methods of accomplishing this needed structural element.  
      Note the rotation of the two adjoining support surfaces to ready the top support  74  for its lap use position. Pin  244  now travels along guides  242  and  245 , and Pin  330  now travel along guide  332 , as can be clearly seen in  FIGS. 39 and 43 . The combination of the multiple movements in two tracking locations allows for numerous adjustments in a plurality of directions. The pin  244 ,  330  may be spring loaded to absorb downward pressure applied to cantilevered top.  
      Specifically referring to  FIG. 41 , the top surface  74  is shown “nested” with the first surface  74  in substantial parallel and vertical alignment with the armrest  74   b . This position is also used for transport and/or storage of the top support  74  when the top support  74  is removed from the chair.  
       FIG. 45  shows the system in lap use.  
       FIG. 46  shows the a chair  11  with the frame  110  and fixed armrest  78   a  with the top support  74  removed.  
       FIGS. 47 and 48  illustrate a variation of the previous embodiment. Here. the alignment means allows the chair mounted top support  74  to traverse farther south or inwardly relative to the user. This additional movement would allow a chair  11  with a mounted top support  74  to fit under a desk without the top support  74  acting as an impediment. Referring to  FIG. 48 , this embodiment includes a secondary tracking system  350 . This secondary tracking system  350  uses a mechanism similar to a drawer slide tracking mechanism. This secondary tracking system  350  includes a third tracking member which allows further telescopic movement to move the top support  74  farther away from the desk. Further, the secondary tracking system may include drawer slides employing the third tracking member, guides, and rollers that guide and support the top support  74  permitting easy operation.  
      Several alternative embodiments have been described and illustrated. A person ordinary skilled in the art would appreciate that the features of the individual embodiments, can be applied to any of the embodiments. Further, the terms “first,” “second,” “upper,” “lower,” etc. are used for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments in any way. The term “plurality” as used herein is intended to indicate any number greater than one, either disjunctively or conjunctively as necessary, up to an infinite number. The terms “attached,” “joined,” and “connected” as used herein are intended to put or bring two elements together so as to form a unit, and any number of elements, devices, fasteners, etc. may be provided between the joined or connected elements unless otherwise specified by the use of the term “directly” and/or supported by the drawings. The term “substantially” is often in conjunction with another term to describe a particular characteristic of the present invention. It is a broad term. As used herein, the term “substantially” is intended to mean “largely that which is specified,” and small variations that do not have an appreciable effect on the utility and function of the present invention do not escape scope of that which is specified. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand what was meant by “substantially.” 
      While the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the broader aspects of the invention. Also, it is intended that broad claims not specifying details of a particular embodiment disclosed herein as the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention should not be limited to such details.