Patent Publication Number: US-2007103442-A1

Title: Multipurpose computer display system

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE  
      1. Technical Field  
      The present disclosure relates to a computer display system that provides improved versatility and functionality, and more particularly to a computer display system that is advantageously rotatable and/or detachable relative to a keyboard-containing base, thereby providing a highly cost effective and efficacious computer display system.  
      2. Background Art  
      In the rapidly evolving computer products industry, significant increases in processing power, storage capacity, and monitor quality have continued to fuel increased adoption and ubiquitous use of computer technology. Beyond the desktop computers that are found in most homes and offices, portable laptop and/or notebook computers have continued to gain market penetration and adoption. Key factors feeding the continued advent of laptop computers include improved energy usage/storage, reduced weight, increased processing speed, increased storage capacity, and improved monitor quality.  
      Laptop computer users frequently utilize their laptop as their primary and/or exclusive computer system. Other laptop computer users employ their laptop in parallel with a desktop computer. Such users typically coordinate operation of their laptop computer with their desktop computer by transferring files between the two systems, e.g., by copying or backing up files from one to the other, through floppy disk file transfers, and/or by direct file sharing through parallel port communications and enabling software program(s). Given the space/weight constraints associated with laptop computer design, the use of laptop computers generally entails less-than-ideal keyboard designs/layouts and reduced storage capacity relative to traditional desktop computer systems.  
      Personal digital assistants, palmtops, hand-held computers, electronic books, and pocket computers (collectively, “PDAs”) have also grown in adoption and use. These handheld devices generally combine computing, telephone/fax, and networking features. A typical PDA can function as a cellular phone, fax sender, and personal organizer. Unlike portable computers, most PDAs began as pen-based systems, using a stylus rather than a keyboard for input, and utilizing handwriting recognition features. Some PDAs can also react to voice input by using voice recognition technologies. PDAs of today are generally available in either a stylus or keyboard version.  
      In utilizing both laptop and desktop computer systems, the quality, flexibility and operation of the monitor is of importance to the overall computer system functionality and desirability. Thus, efforts have been devoted to developing improved computer monitors that offer superior image quality and reliable operation. Recently, flat-panel monitors have been commercialized that offer significant advantages to users, e.g., reduced space requirements, improved aesthetic appearance (e.g., at the desktop), and excellent visual acuity. Laptop computers generally employ flat-panel monitors for reasons of necessity, given space/weight constraints and the desire to pivotally mount the monitor relative to the base/keyboard for system protection and portability. At present, flat-panel monitors are substantially more expensive than conventional CRT monitors of comparable size.  
      Development efforts have been devoted to increasing the flexibility of computer systems as they relate to operation and use of computer monitors. U.S. Pat. No. 5,978,211 to Hong describes a flat-panel monitor permanently affixed to a stand. The stand includes an interface circuit positioned therewithin for connecting the flat-panel monitor, e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), to the host computer system and power supply. A dual-axis hinge assembly is provided that includes a horizontal shaft that permits some degree of rotation about a vertical shaft in the stand. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 5,870,280 to Cho discloses a base for an LCD that includes a pivot assembly that cooperates with a rotary disc. The Cho pivot device can be inclined up and down, and rotated left and right to some degree. A further pivotal/rotatable mechanism for use with an LCD view finder of a video camera is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,982,429 to Kamamoto et al.  
      To increase the flexibility associated with computer systems, efforts have also been devoted to facilitating detachability of certain components. Thus, U.S. Pat. No. 5,793,606 to Cubbage et al. describes an LCD that is detachable/removable from a portable computer system, and an associated stand assembly having particular applicability to presentation systems and/or applications. The LCD display is formed with a hinge that allows variable viewing angles, whether the LCD is attached or detached from the portable computer system. U.S. Pat. No. 5,805,415 to Tran et al. describes a notebook computer having a detachable display and an accessory stand to support the detached display that may include multiple arms to provide greater pivotal flexibility. A further detachable display unit is described by Kim in U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,576. A foldable display screen is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,926,364 to Karidis, which forms a viewing angle for the display screen atop the system&#39;s keyboard.  
      Despite efforts to date, computer users who desire to utilize a flat-panel display with their desktop computers have essentially one choice: purchase a flat-panel display that will be used exclusively with the desktop computer system, at substantial cost (and potential redundancy with his/her laptop computer). Prior art teachings allow a computer user to connect his/her laptop computer to his/her desktop computer system, using the output ports at the rear of the laptop or its external expansion unit (“docking station”), but for the limited purpose of using the desktop computer system&#39;s conventional CRT monitor and/or other external equipment. Prior art teachings have also suggested monitor detachability from laptop/notebook computer systems for specific and limited purposes, namely to allow: (i) better viewing of presentations running on the laptop/notebook computer; (ii) ergonomic viewing of the monitor while using the laptop/notebook computer, i.e., positioning of the monitor display with greater independence relative to the laptop/notebook computer&#39;s keyboard/central processing unit, or (iii) ease of maintenance of the monitor/screen. None of these options is desirable and/or addresses the range of issues confronting users of laptop/notebook computer systems, and an improved, efficient, cost effective system is needed.  
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE  
      According to the present disclosure, an improved laptop computer system is provided that allows a computer user to easily and effectively maximize the value and utility of the laptop&#39;s flat-panel display. In a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the laptop computer system includes a keyboard unit that includes a computer keyboard mounted to (or within) a system base. A flat-panel display is pivotally mounted relative to the system base, i.e., the back wall thereof. The flat panel display provides a display screen for displaying computer-generated images.  
      According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, an advantageous mounting assembly is provided proximate the back wall of the system base. The mounting assembly joins the flat panel display to the system base and permits both rotational and pivotal motion of the flat panel display relative to the system base. Pivotal motion facilitates closure of the laptop computer system, e.g., when not in use and/or being transported by the user, and angular/rotational repositioning of the flat panel display to provide optimal viewing by the user. Rotational motion of the flat panel display relative to the system base also permits repositioning of the flat panel display to facilitate optimal viewing by the user, either independent of or in combination with the aforementioned pivotal motion.  
      In a particularly preferred embodiment of the disclosed laptop computer system, an input receiver or port for use in connecting the laptop computer&#39;s processor to an ancillary processing system, e.g., a desktop computer system, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, or a further computer system, is positioned proximate a front wall of the system base. The input receiver may be positioned in the front wall of the system base (i.e., the wall that is parallel to the back wall relative to which the flat panel display pivots), or immediately adjacent such front wall, e.g., on a side wall in close proximity to such front wall. The input receiver is adapted to send and receive signals from an ancillary computer system, thus coupling the laptop computer system to such ancillary computer system, e.g., for file and/or program sharing and access. Signals provided by, from or via the ancillary computer system are effective to create or deliver a computer-generated image on or to the flat panel display.  
      In preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, conventional software drivers, memory resident programs, and/or other software implementations (e.g., hardware-embedded programs) may contribute to generation of images for display on the flat panel display. Such drivers, programs and/or implementations may be provided or reside in the ancillary computer system, system base and/or display screen.  
      Of particular note, the rotatability of the flat panel display relative to the system base facilitated by the mounting assembly permits the flat panel display to be oriented such that the image is displayed away from the unit&#39;s keyboard, i.e., as much as one hundred eighty degrees removed from its initial position when upwardly pivoted from its closed position. The input receiver positioned proximate the front wall of the system base permits efficient and non-encumbered coupling of the laptop computer to an ancillary computer system, e.g., a desktop computer and/or a PDA.  
      Thus, a flat panel display associated with a laptop computer according to the present disclosure may be easily and efficiently used in conjunction with an ancillary computer system, e.g., a desktop computer or PDA that does not include a monitor or includes a less costly/desirable monitor. The flat panel display may be pivoted relative to the system base in its “rotated” orientation, to provide optimal viewing by the user, e.g., when used to view images generated through interaction with a keyboard associated with the ancillary computer system. The rotatability of the flat panel display in combination with the advantageous positioning of the input receiver(s) permits efficient, cost-effective use of the flat panel display acquired as part of the laptop computer system.  
      In a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, a laptop computer system is provided that includes a keyboard unit that includes a computer keyboard mounted to (or within) a system base. A flat-panel display for displaying computer-generated images is pivotally mounted relative to the system base, i.e., the back wall thereof. An advantageous mounting assembly is provided proximate the back wall of the system base that joins the flat panel display to the system base. The mounting assembly permits both rotational and pivotal motion of the flat panel display relative to the system base, and permits the flat panel display to be detached from the system base by the user. Once detached from the system base, the flat panel display may be mounted in a stand, wherein rotational and pivotal motions are accommodated, and wherein interaction with ancillary computer system(s), e.g., a desktop computer or PDA, is facilitated. According to the present disclosure, advantageous kit(s) may be provided that include necessary structures and components to implement detached use and operation. The detachability of the flat panel display from the system base further increases the flexibility, utility and cost effectiveness of a laptop computer system according to the present disclosure.  
      Numerous other advantages, features and structural aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings and from the claims appended hereto. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
      So that those having ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of the present disclosure appertains will more readily understand how to construct and use computer system(s) of the present disclosure, reference may be had to the following drawings and the accompanying detailed description, wherein:  
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a laptop computer according to the present disclosure;  
       FIG. 2  is a partial breakaway view of a mounting assembly according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;  
       FIG. 3  is a partial exploded view of the mounting assembly of  FIG. 2 ;  
       FIG. 4  is a partial sectional view of the mounting assembly of  FIG. 2 ;  
       FIG. 5  is a further perspective view of the laptop computer of  FIG. 1 ;  
       FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an alternative laptop computer according to the present disclosure;  
       FIG. 7  is a partial breakaway view of a structural aspect of the alternative laptop computer according to  FIG. 6 ;  
       FIG. 8  is a partial breakaway view of a mounting assembly according to the alternative embodiment of  FIG. 6 ;  
       FIG. 9  is a partial sectional view of the mounting assembly of  FIG. 8 , taken along line  9 - 9 ;  
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a detached flat panel display mounted in a stand according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and  
       FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b  are exploded perspective views of further alternative embodiments of laptop computer and stand systems according to the present disclosure. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)  
      While the present disclosure is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will be described in detail herein specific embodiments thereof with the intention that such embodiments of the present disclosure are to be considered as exemplifications of the principles of the disclosed invention, and are not intended to limit the invention to the specifically disclosed and illustrated embodiments. For example, although not depicted in the figures provided herewith, it is contemplated that “touch screens” may be utilized according to the present disclosure to facilitate interaction with the computer systems described herein, as would be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art based on the present disclosure. It is further contemplated that advantageous computer display system(s) as described herein may be beneficially employed in conjunction with personal digital assistants, palmtops, hand-held computers and pocket computers. Additional alternative embodiments of the present disclosure will likewise be readily apparent to those of skill in the art, such alternative embodiments falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.  
      With reference to  FIG. 1 , a laptop computer  100  according to one aspect of the present disclosure is depicted. Laptop computer  100  includes a system base or keyboard unit  102  and a display monitor  104  mounted relative thereto. The system base  102  is substantially rectangular in shape and includes a front wall  110 , side walls  116   a ,  116   b , and a rear wall  118 . A keyboard  106  is positioned within system base  102 , as is known in the art. Keyboard  106  typically includes QWERTY keys and conventional “mouse” technology, e.g., a mouse ball, touch pad, pointer or the like. As depicted in  FIG. 1 , keyboard  106  is substantially flush with the top surface of system base  102 ; however, it is contemplated according to the present disclosure that any keyboard system and/or design may be advantageously employed in realizing the substantial benefits described hereinafter.  
      System base  102  typically contains conventional componentry for operation of laptop computer  100 . Thus, a battery unit is typically provided, e.g., a lithium-ion battery. A slot may also be provided in side wall  116   a  or  116   b  to receive a secondary battery to extend battery time/life. Additional components that may be included within or as part of laptop computer include an audio controller, built-in modem, video controller, built-in speaker, fan and/or random access memory (“RAM”). RAM and/or single in-line memory modules (“SIMMs”) are generally designed to fit into specialized slots defined in system base  102  and, therefore, off-the-shelf RAM and SIMMs are generally not utilized in construction laptop computer systems.  
      Laptop computer  100  may also include a floppy disk drive, CD-ROM drive and/or DVD-ROM drive, e.g., in side wall  116   a  and/or  116   b . Such drive systems may be combined into a single component, or separated into individual components that take turns utilizing a drive bay positioned within system base  102 . A PC card slot is typically provided in system base  102  to facilitate addition of other peripheral componentry. A PC can serve the functions of a hard drive, modem, network connection, or connection to an external drive, e.g., a CD-ROM drive. Multiple PC card slots may be provided in system base  102  to further expand the flexibility associated with laptop computer  100 .  
      To facilitate communication with external components, a series of ports and/or jacks are typically provided in system base  102 . For example, a headphone jack may be provided to allow users to obtain better sound quality than is generally available from built-in speakers. With further reference to  FIG. 1 , a port or jack  112  is advantageously positioned in front wall  110  according to the present disclosure. Port  112  generally constitutes a 15 pin D-sub video connector, serial port, parallel port and/or universal serial bus (“USB”), and may communicate with peripheral devices by wired communication or wireless communication (e.g., via infrared signals), thereby facilitating connection and/or communication of laptop computer  100  with ancillary data/processing unit(s), e.g., to a desktop computer output port or a docking station through which laptop computer  100  can access a desktop keyboard, mouse, hard drive and/or printer. Port  112  may be advantageously connected to a VGA output port from a desktop computer&#39;s video card, e.g., by way of a 15 pin D-sub signal cable.  
      According to preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, port  112  is particularly adapted for video signal transmissions, and may advantageously take the form of a VGA 15 pin D-sub or an IEEE 1394 port (e.g., FireWire® product available from Apple Computer, Inc., Cupertino, Calif.), e.g., for input of video signals to laptop computer  100 . It is further contemplated that multiple ports may be advantageously provided in connection with laptop computer systems according to the present disclosure, e.g., to facilitate multiple and/or various inputs thereto. Thus, the present disclosure is to be specifically understood to encompass laptop computer systems that include multiple, adjacent ports for transmission to and/or from such laptop computer system. For non-wireless port embodiments, port  112  generally connects to an ancillary data/processing unit by way of a conventional cable (not pictured) or the like.  
      In addition, according to preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, port  112  is advantageously positioned in or at the front wall  110  of system base  102 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , exemplary port  112  is depicted closer to side wall  116   b  than to side wall  116   a . However, it is contemplated that port  112  may be advantageously at or substantially near the center of front wall  110 , thereby advantageously positioning wires/cables that cooperate with port  112  in a relatively non-obtrusive location. It is also contemplated that port  112  may be advantageously positioned in close proximity to front wall  110 , e.g., on or at side walls  116   a ,  116   b , provided such side wall positioning is in close proximity to front wall  110 . As used herein, “close proximity” refers to positioning that is substantially closer to front wall  110  than to rear wall  118 .  
      With further reference to  FIG. 1 , display monitor  104  includes a display screen  108  for displaying images generated by or through laptop computer  100 . Display monitor  104  typically employs a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) for the screen, eliminating the bulkiness of conventional desktop cathode ray tube monitors. The LCD display is generally backlit by a panel that shines light through the LCDs toward the user. The generation of images for display on display screen  108  may arise from a processing unit (not pictured) mounted within system base  102 , ancillary drive(s) connected to laptop computer  100 , and/or ancillary data/processing systems communicating with laptop computer  100  by way of port  112 . Conventional software drivers, memory resident programs, and/or other software implementations (e.g., hardware-embedded programs) may be provided to assist in and/or contribute to generation of images for display on panel screen  108 . Such drivers, programs and/or implementations may be provided or reside in the ancillary computer system, system base  102  and/or display screen  108 . Keyboard  106  may also be used to input and/or manipulate images displayed on display screen  108 , as is known in the art.  
      With reference to  FIGS. 1-5 , a preferred mounting mechanism for movably mounting display monitor  104  relative to system base  102  will now be described. Mounting assembly  114  permits dual motion of display monitor  104  relative to system base  102 , namely pivotal motion and rotational motion, i.e., rotatability. Thus, display monitor  104  is permitted to pivot into an overlying position relative to system base  102 , e.g., when it is desired to close laptop computer  100  for protection, transport or the like. In such overlying arrangement, display monitor  104  and system base  102  are substantially coplanar. Through the rotational motion facilitated by mounting assembly  114 , display monitor  104  may be rotated such that display screen  108  is directed away from front wall  110  of system base  102  (as shown in  FIG. 5 ), i.e., rotation of approximately 180 degrees relative to the orientation depicted in  FIG. 1 .  
      With particular reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , mounting assembly  114  includes a pair of spaced mounting brackets  120  protruding from a substantially circular turret  130 . Each of the mounting brackets  120  includes an outwardly directed cavity  122 . Brackets  120  are dimensioned to fit within slots  124  formed in display monitor  104  such that relative motion between brackets  120  and display monitor  104  is permitted. Channels  126  are formed in display monitor  104  and open into slots  124 . Rods  128  are inserted through channels  126  and into cavities  122 , providing an axis about which display monitor  104  may pivot relative to system base  102 . Once inserted, rods  128  are generally not visible to users of laptop computer  100 . A lubricant may be employed on rods  128  and/or within channels  126  to facilitate pivotal motion of display monitor  104 , as described herein.  
      Turret  130  includes a circumferential rim  132  that is dimensioned to mate within a channel  134  formed in circular opening  136  formed in system base  102 . A central slot  138  is also formed in turret  130  to permit passage of conduit  140 , i.e., appropriate transmission means to facilitate delivery to and rendering of computer-generated images by display screen  108 . Conduit  140  extends between display monitor  104  and the processing unit within system base  102 , as is known in the art.  
      To facilitate rotation of turret  130  relative to system base  102 , spring-loaded ball bearings  142  are positioned therebetween. Each spring-loaded ball bearing  142  includes a compression spring  144  and a ball  146 . Compression springs  144  are positioned within and extend from cylindrical chambers  148 . Bearings  142  are preferably equidistantly spaced relative to turret  130 . Thus, in the preferred embodiment depicted in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , four bearings  142  are equidistantly spaced relative to each other and relative to the center of turret  130 .  
      As depicted in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , compression springs  144  are nested within chambers  148  and bias balls  146  into engagement with the underside of turret  130 . Such spring biasing maintains turret  130  spaced away from base  150  defined by circular opening  136 . Thus, bearings  142  facilitate rotation of turret  130  and display monitor  104  (which is pivotally mounted to turret  130  through interaction of rods  128 , channels  126  and brackets  120 ) relative to system base  102 , and permit display screen  108  to be oriented as desired by the user. Indeed, the dual motion of display monitor  104  relative to system base  102  that is accommodated according to the present disclosure provides optimal flexibility, versatility and functionality to users of laptop computer  100 . The rotatability of turret  130  relative to system base  102  is generally limited by the malleability of conduit  140 , and stops  150   a ,  150   b  (shown in  FIG. 3 ) cooperate to advantageously limit the rotational motion of turret  130 , e.g., to no greater than 180 degrees in either direction. Multiple sets of stops  150   a ,  150   b  may be provided that are associated with and/or depend from turret  130  and base  150  to further delimit the rotatability of turret  130  relative to base  150 . Moreover, the design and/or interaction of cooperating stops  150   a ,  150   b  may assume a variety of configurations, as will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art.  
      Of particular significance according to the present disclosure, the combination of (i) positioning port  112  on (or in close proximity to) the front wall  110  of system base  102 , and (ii) facilitating rotation of display monitor  104  relative to system base  102  through mounting assembly  114 , provides significant benefits to users of laptop computer  100 . A user may advantageously couple laptop computer  100  with an ancillary computer system, e.g., a desktop computer, by coupling the ancillary computer system to laptop computer  100  via port  112  positioned at the front of system base  102 . The user may also rotate display monitor  104  relative to system base  102  such that display screen  108  is oriented away from keyboard  106 , i.e., rotated 180 degrees relative to the initial position depicted in  FIG. 1 .  
      In this way, a user may advantageously view computer-generated images on display screen  108  while using an ancillary computer system, e.g., a desktop computer&#39;s keyboard, data files, application programs, connectivity, etc. The user may thus benefit from the high quality, slim profile of display monitor  104  while using hardware and software resources associated with an ancillary computer system. Indeed, the need to acquire a monitor for the ancillary computer system may be obviated. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the user may orient system base  102  away from his/her seated position, i.e., toward the back of a desk, while rotating display screen  108  to face him/her, thereby significantly enhancing the visibility and convenience associated with viewing display screen  108 . Cabling associated with coupling the ancillary computer system to laptop computer  100  will be spaced away from the user, and advantageously hidden from view by display monitor  104 , due to the positioning of port  112  in front wall  110 . The user may pivot display monitor  104  to a desired angular orientation relative to system base  102 , thereby further enhancing the functionality of display screen  108 .  
      Turning to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure,  FIGS. 6-9  depict an exemplary laptop computer  200  according to the present disclosure that includes a detachable display monitor  204  having a display screen  208 . System base or keyboard unit  202  includes a keyboard  206  and a port or jack  212  mounted in a front wall  210 , in like manner to the laptop computer  100  described herein with reference to  FIGS. 1-5 . Display monitor  204  is pivotally mounted relative to system base  202 , such that display monitor  204  can assume an overlying relationship such that display monitor  204  and system base  202  are substantially coplanar.  
      With reference to the exploded view of  FIG. 7 , a mounting mechanism  214  for detachably and pivotally mounting display monitor  204  relative to system base  202  includes rod  228   a  that extends from display monitor  204  and is positioned within arcuate cradle  220   a  formed in upstanding back wall  218  of system base  202 . A corresponding rod  228   b /cradle  220   b  are provided at the opposite side of system base  202 , and cooperate with back wall  218  of system base  202 . A variety of mechanisms for mounting rods  228   a ,  228   b  to display monitor  204  are contemplated, e.g., welding, press fit, bolt mechanisms, bayonet locking systems, and the like. Ports  225 ,  227  are provided on display monitor  204  for supplying power to display monitor  204  and communicating data for display thereon, e.g., from a processor contained within system base  202  and/or an ancillary data/processing unit(s). Ports  225 ,  227  may be combined into a single port, e.g., for use with a USB connector having power wires contained therewithin. In addition, port  227  may facilitate wireless communications, e.g., utilizing infrared energy transmissions. According to preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, port  225  and/or port  227  is/are particularly adapted for video signal transmissions, and may advantageously take the form of a VGA 15 pin D-sub or an IEEE 1394 port (e.g., FireWire® product, Apple Corporation, Cupertino, Calif.), e.g., for input of video signals to laptop computer  200 .  
      Turning to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , detachable and pivotal mounting of display monitor  204  relative to system base  202  is further effectuated through a plurality of spring-loaded extension arms  246  that extend from system base  202 . Extension arms  246  are spaced relative to each other and are dimensioned and configured to fit within correspondingly spaced arcuate slots  224  formed in display monitor  204 , thereby preventing display monitor  204  from laterally sliding off of system base  202  (e.g., through sliding of rods  228   a ,  228   b  relative to cradles  220   a ,  220   b . Arcuate slots  224  are of sufficient length to permit a desired level of travel for display monitor  204  relative to system base  202 . Thus, the interplay between extension arms  246  and arcuate slots  224  is such that display monitor  204  advantageously pivots between a plurality of upright positions and an overlying relationship to system base  202 , i.e., when laptop computer  200  is closed. Arcuate slots  224  generally traverse an angular distance of about 180°.  
      In exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, each extension arm  204  includes a semi-spherical face  248  that rides within a corresponding arcuate slot  224  and an abutment flange  250 . A compression spring  252  is captured within a cavity  254  and abuts the abutment flange  250  at one end and the base of cavity  254  within system base (not pictured) at the other end. Thus, compression spring  252  biases extension arm  246  into engagement with face  225  within arcuate slot  224 . Abutment flange  250  is further captured within cavity  254  by the top face  261  of system base  202 .  
      When display monitor  204  is detached from system base  202 , as described herein, compression spring  252  forces abutment flange  250  into engagement with top face  261  of system base  202 . Conversely, when a detached display monitor  204  is returned to engagement with system base  202 , the interaction of extension arms  246  with arcuate slots  224  brings display monitor  202  into desirable alignment with system base  202 . Simultaneously, rods  228   a ,  228   b  nest within cradles  220   a ,  220   b . Of note, base on the symmetry of extension arms  246 /arcuate slots  224  and rods  228   a ,  228   b /cradles  220   a ,  220   b , display monitor  202  may be advantageously oriented in an opposite direction relative to system base  202 , i.e., with display screen  208  directed away from keyboard  206 . Thus, significant flexibility and enhanced utility are achieved through advantageous mounting mechanisms according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.  
      Turning to  FIG. 10 , an exemplary system stand  300  is depicted for use with a detachable display monitor  204  according to the present disclosure. System stand  300  includes substantially triangular side walls  316  and rectangular front and back walls  310 ,  318 . Although the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 10  includes triangular side walls  316 , such geometry is not critical to the design and/or functionality of systems according to the present disclosure and, indeed, alternative geometries, e.g., square, rectangular, trapezoidal and the like, are contemplated. System stand  300  also typically replicates, at least in part, the mounting mechanism  214  described with reference to laptop computer  200 . Thus, exemplary system stand  300  typically includes a mounting mechanism  314  that includes cradles  320  for receiving rods  228   a ,  228   b  of display monitor  204 . A plurality of spring-biased extension arms  346  advantageously extend from system stand  300  in intermediate region  305  defined between cradles  320 . The number and spacing of extension arms  346  generally corresponds to the corresponding extension arms  246  associated with system base  202 . When detachably mounted on system stand  300 , display monitor  204  is pivotal with respect thereto, thereby providing a user an opportunity to orient display screen, as desired.  
      Exemplary cables  290  and  295  are shown extending away from the rear of system stand  300 . Cables  290  may be used to transmit power to port  225  of display monitor  204 , and cable  295  may transmit information/data for display on display monitor  204 . Of note, system base  202 , system stand  300  and detachable display monitor  204  provide a cost effective, reliable computer system that enhances the utility and flexibility associated with each individual component. Thus, in preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, a kit that includes a system base, system stand and a detachable display monitor are provided to supply such enhanced flexibility and utility.  
      Of further note with respect to the present disclosure, decorative and/or distinctive aesthetic features may be advantageously incorporated into the design and/or fabrication of the system stand, system base and/or display monitor to further enhance the desirability of the disclosed systems. Thus, it is contemplated that distinctive wood finishes, e.g., mahogany, cherry, oak and the like, metal finishes and/or trims, e.g., gold-plating, or other distinctive detailing may be added thereto. Such aesthetic features may be useful to enhance the overall appearance of the computer system components according to the present disclosure, and to create an aesthetic and/or ornamental connection between individual system components.  
      Additional exemplary embodiments are contemplated according to the present disclosure. Thus, for example, with reference to  FIGS. 6-10 , it is contemplated that rods  228   a ,  228   b  may be one continuous rod extending substantially the full length of display monitor  204 . Cradles  220  and/or cradles  320  may also be extended in like measure to correspond to the extended rods, and extension arms may be spring-biased to extend from cradles  220 ,  320  into engagement with angular slots  224  formed in the elongated rods. Alternative alignment means are also contemplated for use in place of spring-loaded extension arms  246 ,  346 , e.g., fixed projections, raised surfaces or nubs.  
      With reference to system stand  300 , it is contemplated that ports and/or jacks may be provided in one or more faces thereof, e.g., front and/or back wall  310 ,  318 , to receive appropriate connections with respect to display monitor  204 . Thus, system stand  300  may advantageously function as a USB host for interaction of USB devices associated with display monitor  204 . It is further contemplated that a variety of mounting mechanisms may be employed to detachably mount a display monitor with a system base and/or system stand for pivotal motion with respect thereto according to the present disclosure. Thus, for example, a plurality of spaced, arcuate hooks may extend from the bottom of display monitor that are adapted to engage corresponding apertures formed in the system base and/or system stand. The arcuate hooks may advantageously snap into the apertures, and be manually released, as desired by a user, e.g., by pushing a button on the side of the system base and/or system stand that frees the arcuate hooks for removal from such apertures.  
      In a further preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, it is contemplated that the rotatable and pivotal interaction of display monitor  104  with system base  102  be achieved using a mounting mechanism that permits detachment of display monitor  104  therefrom, e.g., as shown with reference to  FIGS. 6-9 . Thus, for example, it is contemplated that turret  130  may detachably engage system base  102 , e.g., by way of a plurality of downwardly extending hooked extension arms that extend through the central opening  175  formed in base  150 . The extension arms would not inhibit rotational motion of turret  130  relative to system base  102 , but would facilitate disengagement of display monitor  104  therefrom, and reengagement with a second structural support, e.g., a system stand similar in construction to that depicted in  FIG. 10 .  
      Thus, in preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, a display monitor is provided that is pivotally and rotatably mounted with respect to a system base. Alternatively, a display monitor is provided that is pivotally and detachably mounted with respect to a system base. And, in a further embodiment, a display monitor is provided that is pivotally, rotatably and detachably mounted with respect to a system base. Display monitors according to the present disclosure are advantageously adapted to interact with multiple processing units and/or ancillary computer system(s), e.g., one or more laptop computers, one or more desktop computers, one or more PDAs, and combinations thereof. Through advantageous positioning of port(s) associated with the system base of a laptop computer, display monitors according to the present disclosure may be conveniently utilized in conjunction with a desktop computer by rotating the display monitor by 180° and utilizing port(s) located on the “front face” of the system base. In this way, cabling is kept out of the way relative to the rotated display monitor. Kits and systems are provided according to preferred embodiments of the present disclosure that offer users ancillary structures, e.g., system stand(s), that facilitate full implementation of the disclosed benefits and advantages.  
      With reference to  FIGS. 11   a  and  11   b , further advantageous systems for use of exemplary laptop computer  100  are shown. In the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 11   a , laptop computer  100   a  includes a plurality of spaced recesses  160   a  formed in the underside  155   a  thereof. Spaced recesses  160   a  are preferably equally spaced on the underside  155   a  such that laptop computer  100   a  may be oriented on laptop stand  300   a  securely and in multiple positions. A laptop stand  300   a  for cooperative interaction with laptop computer  100   a  is advantageously provided pursuant to the embodiment of  FIG. 11   a . Laptop stand  300   a  is substantially rectangular in outer dimension and includes a front wall  302 , side walls  304   a ,  304   b  and rear wall  306 . In addition, in the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 11   a , laptop stand  300   a  includes a substantially rectangular top surface  308  that includes a plurality of spaced protrusions  330  extending therefrom. In the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 11   a , spaced recesses  160   a  and four spaced protrusions  330  are provided. Spaced protrusions  310  are sized and positioned so as to cooperate with recesses  160   a , thereby stabilizing laptop computer  100   a  relative to laptop stand  300   a.    
      The symmetric positioning of recesses  160   a  on underside  155   a  and protrusions  330  on top surface  308  permit laptop computer  100   a  to be positioned such that the laptop monitor will face “toward” or “away” from the user when removably mounted on laptop stand  300   a . Moreover, through rotatable mounting of the display monitor relative to the keyboard unit, the directional orientation of the display monitor may be adjusted without removing laptop computer  100   a  from laptop stand  300   a.    
      In the pictured embodiment, front wall  302 , side walls  304   a ,  304   b , and rear wall  306  define inwardly directed or concave parabolic surfaces relative to top surface  308  and base  312 . Such concavity provides a visually/aesthetically desirable appearance to laptop stand  300   a  (and to laptop computer  100   a  when removably mounted thereon). Alternative geometries and surface features are contemplated and may be employed in connection with laptop stand  300   a , as will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. In addition, decorative and/or distinctive aesthetic features may be advantageously incorporated into the design and/or fabrication of the laptop stand  300   a . For example, distinctive wood finishes, e.g., mahogany, cherry, oak and the like, metal finishes and/or trims, e.g., gold-plating, or other distinctive detailing may be added thereto. Such aesthetic features may enhance the overall appearance of the computer system components and create an aesthetic and/or ornamental connection between individual system components.  
      An alternative embodiment according to the present disclosure is depicted in  FIG. 11   b . Laptop computer  100   b  includes a plurality of protrusions or buttons  160   b  extending from the underside  155   b  thereof. In the exemplary depicted embodiment of  FIG. 11   b , laptop computer  100   b  includes four equally spaced protrusions  160   b  positioned adjacent respective corners of underside  155   b . Alternative numbers, geometries and relative positionings of spaced protrusions  160  are contemplated.  
      A laptop stand  300   b  for cooperative interaction with laptop computer  100   b  is provided pursuant to the embodiment of  FIG. 11   b . Laptop stand  300   b  is substantially square in outer dimension and includes a front wall  310 , side walls  316   a ,  316   b  and raised rear wall  318 . Laptop stand  300   b  includes a substantially square surface  355  that is bounded by a peripheral ridge  320 . A plurality of spaced recesses  360  are formed in surface  355 . Spaced recesses  360  are sized and positioned so as to cooperate with protrusions  160   b , thereby stabilizing laptop computer  100   b  relative to laptop stand  300   b . In the pictured embodiment, surface  355  is angularly oriented relative to a horizontal plane, to enhance interaction with the laptop&#39;s keyboard. Peripheral ridge  320  provides further stabilization to laptop computer  100   b.    
      As noted above, decorative and/or distinctive aesthetic features may be advantageously incorporated into the design and/or fabrication of the laptop stand  300   b . For example, distinctive wood finishes, e.g., mahogany, cherry, oak and the like, metal finishes and/or trims, e.g., gold-plating, or other distinctive detailing may be added thereto. Such aesthetic features may enhance the overall appearance of the computer system components and create an aesthetic and/or ornamental connection between individual system components.  
      While the present disclosure provides detailed descriptions with reference to preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that various modifications and changes may be made in the construction, arrangement and operation of the computer systems disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and reasonable equivalents thereof. While many modifications and variations are disclosed herein, other variations will become apparent to persons skilled in the art from the detailed description and drawings provided herewith, and are encompassed within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.