Abstract:
A portable light weight desk enabling multiple user positions. The portable desk is configured as a multiple-member frame structure with interchangeable members that allow different configurations of a portable desk. The configurations include an upright configuration particularly suited for placement and use of electronic device in ergonomic positions for the user while laying down on a floor or in a seated position including seated in a vehicle. The portable desk top can also be arranged to be mounted with wheels for portability.

Description:
FIELD OF INVENTION  
       [0001]     The present invention relates to portable and adjustable desks or support structures, and in particular, to a portable and adjustable desk or support structure permitting multiple user positions while supporting an object.  
       BACKGROUND OF INVENTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART  
       [0002]     Portable and/or foldable tables have existed to provide users with an easily foldable/unfoldable table structure that provides table surfaces for a wide variety of uses and purposes and convenience to the users. These tables may be typically used at places or locations where conventional tables cannot be used. Such tables are used for working, reading/writing, eating, or any other purposes. Common uses of such tables are for placing and supporting laptop or portable computers, books, plates, bowls, or any other such items.  
         [0003]     For example, laptop or portable computers are used by various persons. Laptop computer users often prefer to use their portable computers while sitting in a comfortable chair/couch or while sitting up or lying in a bed. These locations, however, typically require a table or desk on which the computer is placed, or the user must position the computer on his or her lap.  
         [0004]     Supporting a portable computer on the user&#39;s lap is awkward or uncomfortable and causes heat, sweat, muscle fatigue, etc. to the user. Therefore, portable computer users generally prefer to use some type of portable table, stand, support device, or other flat, rigid surface upon which the computer is placed.  
         [0005]     U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,719,614; 2,449,492; 2,476,620; 3,805,710; 4,119,289; 4,726,556; 5,417,168; and 6,019,050 disclose examples of such portable and/or adjustable tables or support structures. However, there are various problems and disadvantages with these prior art portable tables or support structures. Some of these prior art tables and support structures are uncomfortable and bulky to use, cumbersome to set up, or not easily or variably adjustable to accommodate the different positions in which the user may use the table and support structures such as lying in bed, sitting at a conventional table or seated in a vehicle.  
         [0006]     Some of the prior art tables and support structures required attachment or coupling to another surface or structure in order to be used. Portable tables and support structures that are collapsible and folding and self-supporting and self-standing have been developed and exist in the prior art. U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,476,620; 3,805,710; 4,726,556; 5,417,168 disclose examples of such self-supporting or self-standing, collapsible tables and support structures. However, one problem with these self-supporting, collapsible prior art tables is that the legs or leg components are not able to be easily folded together since one leg or leg component would get in the way of rotation or folding of the other leg or leg component when the legs or leg components were being placed into a storage position. The folded legs were therefore bulky, or one of the legs needed to be removed in order to fold or place the legs in a compact position. Therefore, the need and desire exists to develop and provide a leg assembly for a table or support structure wherein the leg components stay coupled to the leg assembly and wherein the leg components are able to be put into a folding position and rotate or fold easily out of the way of each other when being folded to a compact storage position and are able to rotate back to an unfolding position for use.  
         [0007]     Also, some of the prior art tables or support structures have foldable or collapsible legs or leg assemblies that may not be very stable or balanced when in use. Therefore, collapsible truss structures or collapsible triangular shaped leg components have been developed and used for various tables and support structures. U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,164,353 and 4,726,556 provide examples of such legs or leg assemblies. U.S. Pat. No. 3,164,353 is further incorporated by reference herein. However, one problem with these legs or leg assemblies is that the stability, balance, and center of gravity position of the table or support structure may become less stable as the table or support surface is raised or lowered to a various position. Therefore, the need and desire exists to develop and provide a leg assembly for a table or support structure wherein the legs or leg components and the center of gravity position of the leg assembly remain generally stable and balanced whether the table or support structure surface is raised or lower.  
         [0008]     Furthermore, prior art tables or support structures that allow for height adjustment exist in order to accommodate the user. U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,449,492; 2,476,620; 3,805,710; 4,119,289; 4,726,556; 5,417,168 provide examples of such height adjustable tables or support structures. However, some of the prior art height adjustment mechanisms for these tables or support structures are cumbersome, awkward, or difficult to use. U.S. Pat. No. 5,417,168 discloses a height adjustment mechanism that uses an engaging protuberance to one of a number of height adjustment holes in order to adjust the height of each leg component.  
         [0009]     However, this height adjustment mechanism has the problem of aligning the engaging protuberance to a certain/desired height adjustment hole. Therefore, the need and desire exists to develop and provide a height adjustment mechanism for a table or support structure that is easily accessible and easy to use to adjust height of the table and able to easily align and engage the engaging protuberance into a certain/desired height adjustment hole.  
         [0010]     A further limitation of the prior art tables or support structures is that they do not explicitly teach or disclose legs or leg components that are independently adjustable to conform the plane of the table or support structure surface to even and uneven surfaces (i.e. bed or mattress surface or any other such even/uneven surfaces). Another limitation of the prior art tables or support structures is that they do not adjust to the size and height of the user in that the width distance apart from the legs or leg components are not adjustable when the height of the table or support structure surface is lowered or raised. Also, a mechanism for adjusting the angle or pitch of the table or support structure surface is in continual need of improvement and development.  
         [0011]     Therefore, the present invention discloses and provides a portable and configurable desk top to enable multiple user positions that overcomes the above problems, disadvantages, and limitations of the prior art.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0012]     It is an object of this invention to provide a light weight portable desk surface that is adjustable to enable multiple user positions while supporting an object such as a laptop computer or other electronic device or including a book or a food tray.  
         [0013]     It is an object of this invention to provide a portable light weight desk surface that can easily be mounted with wheels.  
         [0014]     The present invention is directed to a portable desk top frame structure for supporting an object comprising: 
        a plurality of lateral members;     a plurality of transverse members, 
 
 at least two of said transverse members each connected to at least one of said lateral members to form said frame structure; 
    at least a first and second support member connected transversely to at least one of said lateral members;        
 
         [0018]     at least a third support member connected transversely to at least one other of said at least one lateral members, 
        said first, second and third support members oriented so as to stably support said frame structure on a surface,     said frame structure inclined to said surface at an angle ergonomically suitable for a user of the object supported on said frame structure.        
 
         [0021]     In a variation of the present invention, the present invention is directed to a portable desk top frame structure for supporting an object comprising: 
        a plurality of lateral members;     a plurality of transverse members, 
 
 at least two of said transverse members each connected to at least one of said lateral members to form said frame structure; 
    at least a first and second support member connected transversely to at least one of said lateral members;     at least a third support member connected transversely to at least one other of said at least one lateral members,     said first and second support members oriented so as to stably support said frame structure on a surface,     said at least a third support member oriented in combination with said first and second support members to stably support said frame structure on another surface,     said frame structure inclined to said surface at an angle ergonomically suitable for a user of the object supported on said frame structure.        
 
         [0029]     In the variation of the portable desk top frame structure, at least one of said first and second support members is oriented so as to stably support said frame structure on a surface comprises a wheel and axle assembly.  
         [0030]     In another variation of the present invention, at least one of said first, second and third support members comprises at least one positionally adjustable joint for adjusting the position of said frame structure with respect to the surface.  
         [0031]     In another variation of the present invention, at least one of said first, second and third support members comprises at least one positionally adjustable joint for adjusting the position of said frame structure with respect to the respective surface.  
         [0032]     The frame structure can further comprise a covering material interfacing with at least a portion of said frame structure.  
         [0033]     An alternate configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention comprises a portable desk top frame structure for supporting an object, with the frame structure comprising: a plurality of members connected in one of a (a) polygonal and (b) curvilinear arrangement to form the frame structure; at least one connection for a plurality of support members, with the at least one connection oriented to enable the plurality of support members to stably support the frame structure on at least one surface. The plurality of support members enable the frame structure to be inclined to the at least one surface at an angle ergonomically suitable for a user of the object to be supported on the frame structure.  
         [0034]     In another alternate configuration, the frame structure comprises a plurality of members connected in at least one of a (a) polygonal and (b) curvilinear arrangement to form the frame structure; at least one connection for a plurality of support members, with the at least one connection oriented to enable at least one of the plurality of support members to stably support the frame structure on a first surface. The at least one connection is oriented to enable another of the plurality of support member to be oriented to stably support the frame structure on a second surface. The frame structure is inclined to the surface at an angle ergonomically suitable for a user of the object supported on the frame structure.  
         [0035]     A second embodiment of the present invention is a portable desk top frame structure for supporting an object, the desk top frame structure being formed uniformly and integrally in at least one of a (a) polygonal and (b) curvilinear arrangement to form the frame structure. The desk top frame structure comprises: at least one connection for a plurality of support members, the at least one connection oriented to enable the plurality of support members to stably support the frame structure on at least one surface, the plurality of support members enabling the frame structure to be inclined to the at least one surface at an angle ergonomically suitable for a user of the object to be supported on the frame structure.  
         [0036]     In an alternate configuration of the second embodiment, the desk top frame structure is formed uniformly and integrally in one of a (a) polygonal and (b) curvilinear arrangement to form the frame structure. The desk top frame structure comprises: at least one connection for a plurality of support members, the at least one connection oriented to enable at least another of the plurality of support members to stably support the frame structure on a first surface. The at least one connection is oriented to enable at least another support member to be oriented to stably support the frame structure on a second surface enabling the frame structure to be inclined to the surface at an angle ergonomically suitable for a user of the object supported on the frame structure.  
         [0037]     At least one of the plurality of support members can comprise a wheel and axle assembly.  
         [0038]     At least one of the plurality of support members can comprise at least one positionally adjustable joint for adjusting at least one of the (a) position of the frame structure with respect to at least one surface and (b) angle of the frame structure with respect to at least one surface.  
         [0039]     In another variation of the portable desk top frame structure, at least another of the plurality of support members is oriented to enable the plurality of support members to stably support the frame structure on at least one surface are disposed to enable at least two users to be seated at least partially under the frame structure simultaneously.  
         [0040]     The portable desk top frame structure can further comprise at least one member disposed so as to connect or join at least two portions of the frame structure.  
         [0041]     The portable desk top frame structure can further comprise at least another member disposed so as to connect at least another portion of the frame structure, wherein at least another member and at least one member disposed so as to connect at least two portions of the frame structure are connected or joined to each other.  
         [0042]     The portable desk top structure can further comprise a grating matrix formed uniformly and integrally with the frame structure, and can further comprise a covering material interfacing with at least a portion of the frame structure. The covering material can be disposed to interface also with the object to be supported.  
         [0043]     At least one of the pluralityof support members of the portable desk top frame structure can further comprise a stabilizer bar. At least a portion of the stabilizer bar can be rotated to be at least partially parallel or be rotated circumferentially with respect to the plurality of support members. The stabilizer bar can further comprise at least one positionally adjustable joint for extending the span of the stabilizer bar.  
         [0044]     The portable desk top frame structure can further comprise a raised surface enabling the user to ergonomically position an arm or wrist of the user. The raised surface can be integrally formed with the frame structure or the raised surface can be joined to the portable desk top frame structure by a joining means for joining the raised surface to the portable desk top structure.  
         [0045]     The frame structure can further comprise connection means for connecting supporting means enabling support of the frame structure by one of (a) the body of a user and (b) a surface other than a floor on which a user is located. The connection means for connecting supporting means can comprise a strap-engaging means for engaging a strap. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0046]      FIG. 1  is an elevation view of the embodiment of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk.  
         [0047]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk.  
         [0048]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a first alternate configuration of the embodiment of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk.  
         [0049]      FIG. 4A  is an elevation view of a second alternate configuration of the embodiment of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk.  
         [0050]      FIG. 4B  is an elevation view of a variation of the second alternate configuration of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk.  
         [0051]      FIG. 5  is a variation of the embodiment of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk.  
         [0052]      FIG. 6A  is an elevation view of a configuration of a covering for the desk top surface of the embodiment of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk.  
         [0053]      FIG. 6B  is an elevation view of a variation of the covering for the desk top surface of the embodiment of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk of  FIG. 6A   
         [0054]      FIG. 6C  is an elevation view of a second variation of the covering for the desk top surface of the embodiment of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk.  
         [0055]      FIG. 7  is an elevation view of an alternate covering for the desk top surface of the embodiment of the present invention of a portable adjustable desk of the present invention.  
         [0056]      FIG. 8  is an elevation view of the covering of  FIG. 6A  as covering the desk top surface of the embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0057]      FIG. 9A  is a plan view of the first alternate configuration of a second embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0058]      FIG. 9B  is a plan view as viewed from the bottom of the first alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 9A .  
         [0059]      FIG. 9C  is an elevation view as viewed from the side of the of first alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 9A .  
         [0060]      FIG. 9D  is an elevation view as viewed from the rear of the first alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 9A .  
         [0061]      FIG. 9E  is a perspective view of the first alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 9A   
         [0062]      FIG. 10A  is a plan view of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0063]      FIG. 10B  is a plan view as viewed from the bottom of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A .  
         [0064]      FIG. 10C  is an elevation view of a portion of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A .  
         [0065]      FIG. 10D  is an elevation view of an alternate position of the portion of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A .  
         [0066]      FIG. 10E  is an elevation view as viewed from the side of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A .  
         [0067]      FIG. 10F  is an elevation view as viewed from the rear of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A .  
         [0068]      FIG. 10G  is a perspective view of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A .  
         [0069]      FIG. 11A  is a plan view of a third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0070]      FIG. 11B  is a plan view as viewed from the bottom of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11A .  
         [0071]      FIG. 11C  is a perspective view of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11A   
         [0072]      FIG. 11D  is a perspective view as viewed from the bottom of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11C .  
         [0073]      FIG. 11E  is an elevation view as viewed from the rear of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11A .  
         [0074]      FIG. 11F  is an exploded view of a portion of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11A .  
         [0075]      FIG. 12A  is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0076]      FIG. 12B  is a perspective view of a detail of the third embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 12A .  
         [0077]      FIG. 12C  is perspective view of a detail of the third embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 12B . 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS  
       [0078]      FIG. 1  is a plan view of the upper surface of desk top frame structure  500  of the present invention with respect to an arbitrary set of xyz axes with the x and y axes foaming a plane in the plan view an the z axis extends vertically perpendicular to the xy plane. The xy plane is inclined from the horizontal by an angle θ from the horizontal as shown in  FIG. 2 . The angle θ is chosen to maximize ergonomic comfort. The desk top frame structure  500  comprises at least two members  510  and  512  parallel to the y direction. In the x direction, the members  520  and  522  are joined by a 4-sided cross connection  530  while members  524  and  526  are joined by tee connection  532 .  
         [0079]     The x-direction members  520  and  524  intersect with y-direction member  510  by means of tee connections  534  and  536  while members  522  and  526  intersect with y-direction member  512  by means of connections  538  and  540 .  
         [0080]     Optional tee connection  538 A can be provided between tee connection  536  and member  510 , while optional tee connection  538 B can be provided between tee connection  540  and member  512 . The perpendicular connections of the optional tees  537 A and  537 B face in the z-direction toward the upper surface of the desk structure frame  500 , as shown by the perpendicular connections  537   a  and  537   b  of the tees  537 A and  537 B, respectively, which act as stopping mechanisms to minimize the chances that any item placed by the user on the desk top frame structure will slide off.  
         [0081]     A y-direction member  542  is connected to tee  544  which in tun is connected to tee  546 . Tee  546  is in turn connected to cross  530 . The perpendicular connections  544   a  of tee  544  and  546   a  of tee  546  are each oriented downward in the z direction. Connections  550  to tee  536  and connection  552  to tee  540  are shown as tees to provide optional capability to connect wheels and other accessories as shown and discussed later in  FIGS. 4A and 4B . However, those skilled in the art recognize that tee connections  550  and  552  can be substituted by elbows. The perpendicular connections  550   a  of tee  550  and  552   a  of tee  552  are in turn connected to one end of support members  554  and  556  respectively whose opposite ends can be in contact with a floor or the ground depending upon the user&#39;s desired usage of the device.  
         [0082]     Tee connection  558  is connected to cross  530 . Tee connection  558  provides dual capability for connecting a third support member  560 . The third support member  560  can be oriented either by connection to the perpendicular connection  558   a  of tee  558  or to the in-line connection  558   b  of tee  558 .  
         [0083]     Optional locking mechanisms  508  can be located at suitable locations as shown to strengthen the desk top frame structure  500 .  
         [0084]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the desk top frame structure  500  of  FIG. 1 . The identical component numbers are used and are not otherwise further described herein unless necessary. The only difference between  FIG. 2  and  FIG. 1  is that the third support member  560  is connected to an optional tee  562  at perpendicular connection  562   a.  The orientation of tee  562  in the horizontal position as shown improves the stability of desk top frame structure  500 .  
         [0085]     In  FIG. 3  is illustrated an alternate configuration of the embodiment as shown in  FIG. 1 . In this configuration, the third support member  560  and tee  562  are rearranged by removal from end  558   a  of connecting tee  558  to connect instead to the end  558   b  of the tee  558 . In this configuration, the user can comfortably place an object on the desk top surface  500  while in a vehicle or other confined space by resting the third support member  560  and as appropriate tee  562  on a suitable surface.  
         [0086]     In  FIG. 4A  is illustrated the alternate configuration of the embodiment of  FIG. 3  further altered by removing the end tees  550  and  552  and the members  554  and  556 . Wheel axles  570 A and  570 B connecting wheels  572 A and  572 B, respectively, are attached to the end of tees  536  and  540  as shown. Optional additional locking mechanisms  508  can be attached to the tees  536  and  540  as shown. The third support member  560  now acts as handle which can be extended in length as necessary to enable a user to transport items located on the surface of the frame structure  500 .  
         [0087]      FIG. 4B  is a variation of the alternate configuration of  FIG. 4A  where the tees  550  and  552  remain in place and the connecting members  554  and  556  are just swiveled to an upright position to permit the wheels  572 A and  572 B to be connected now to the tees  554  and  556  through the wheel axles  570 A and  570 B. This configuration also enables a user to transport items located on the surface of the frame structure  500  without the necessity of storing the members  554  and  556  and the tees  550  and  552 .  
         [0088]     In  FIG. 5  is illustrated a sideways perspective view of the desk top frame structure  500  which is shown with respect to the arbitrary coordinate axes xyz as being inclined at an angle θ. That is, the xy plane is inclined to the horizontal by angle θ. The angle θ is chosen for ergonomic reasons and typically ranges from 30° to 45° but is not limited to this range. In a variation of the embodiment, the support member  811  is shown which comprises a plurality of members such as  820 ,  830 ,  840  and  845  which can be pivoted with respect to each other in the yz plane by means of the tighteners  825  and  835 . For example, the tightener  825  permits a pivot angle φ in the yz plane as shown between member  820  and member  830 . The member  820  can be connected by means of adjustable locking collar  850  to any of the connections  530 ,  546  or  544 . However, typically to obtain maximum support and stability of the item to be supported by the desk top frame, the locking collar  850  is connected either to the cross  530  or the tee  546 . This configuration enables the user to make additional adjustments to the orientation of the frame structure  500 . The member  840  can further comprise a telescoping member  845  to positionally adjust the position of the frame structure  500  with respect to the respective supporting surface. The telescoping member  845  can in turn can be constructed with a horizontal stabilizer bar  860 . The horizontal stabilizer bar  860  in turn can be comprised of two or more flaps  860 A and  860 B which pivot or rotate partially or completely upward and downward or circumferentially in a manner similar to the handles of a periscope. This pivoting or rotation facilitates storage of the telescoping member  845  and also adjustment of the frame structure  500  for use on uneven surfaces.  
         [0089]     The support member  812  comprises a plurality of members such as  870 ,  880  and  885  which also can be pivoted with respect to each other by means of tighteners  865  and  875 . However, tightener  865  comprises a ball joint which allows motion in any direction whereas member  870  is connected to the desk top frame structure  500  by means of tightener  865  which permits pivoting in the yz plane as discussed above. Member  870  is connected to support member  880  by tightener  875  which also permits pivoting in the yz plane. The member  885  is a telescoping member which is formed with the member  880 .  
         [0090]     The third support member  813  which is primarily hidden also comprises a plurality of members in a similar manner which is obvious to those skilled in the art to be as shown and discussed for support member  812 .  
         [0091]      FIGS. 6A, 6B  and  6 C illustrate alternate configurations of a covering which interfaces over the desk top frame structure  500 . In  FIG. 6A  is a one-piece mesh suitably sized to span the dimensions outlined by members  510  and  512  and also by members  520 ,  522 , 524  and  526 . In  FIG. 6B  is a two-piece configuration of the mesh  610  divided into pieces  612 A and  612 B which are joined by hinges  614  located at suitable locations. In  FIG. 6C  is four-piece configuration of the mesh  610  divided into four pieces  616 A to  616 D. Again, hinges  614  are placed at suitable locations. The mesh material can be made of any suitable material such as a metal or plastic. Those skilled in the art recognize that any number of divided pieces of mesh can be provided. The purpose of the multiple pieces of mesh is to enable a user to easily fold the mesh for transportation of the desk top structure.  
         [0092]      FIG. 7  illustrates another covering  710  which can be used either alone or jointly with the mesh  610 ,  612 A,  612 B, and  616 A to  616 D of  FIGS. 6A  to  6 C. Covering  710  is a mesh permitting air flow to facilitate heat transfer when a laptop computer or other electronic device is located on the desk top frame structure  500 . Mesh covering  710  typically can include ULTRA GRIP LINER™ made by the Con-Tact Corp.  
         [0093]      FIG. 8  is an elevation view of the covering of  FIG. 6A  as covering the desk top surface of the embodiment of the present invention. The mesh  612 , or  610 ,  612 A,  612 B and  616 A to  616 D can be applied to the desktop frame structure  500  typically by fastening means such clips  810 . In addition, the covering  710  can be applied over the mesh also typically by fastening means such as clips  810 . The mesh coverings  612 , or  610 ,  612 A,  612 B and  616 A to  616 D or  710  in addition provide a frictional surface to minimize or prevent sliding of the object placed on the desktop frame structure  500 . Typically, the object is a portable computer, but other objects as deemed suitable by the user can be accommodated also.  
         [0094]     The embodiment has been described in terms of individual tees, crosses and members, suitable typically to be made of a plastic material to provide low weight, low cost and ease of assembly. In particular, as noted previously, the embodiment of  FIGS. 1 through 8  is illustrated with two lateral or horizontal x-direction members and at least two transverse or vertical y-direction members to provide structural stability. That is, the x-direction members  520  and  524  intersect with y-direction member  510  by means of tee connections  534  and  536  while members  522  and  526  intersect with y-direction member  512  by means of connections  538  and  540 . Those skilled in the art recognize that there are other configurations possible that can provide structural stability, such as a polygonal arrangement or configuration, for example a quadrilateral or triangular arrangement or configuration, or a curvilinear arrangement or configuration of the members in the x-y plane.  
         [0095]     Those skilled in the art will recognize also that the present invention can be designed as in a unitary manner to provide uniform structures minimizing the number of connections and to provide smooth transitions.  
         [0096]     In that regard,  FIG. 9A  is a plan view of the first alternate configuration of a second embodiment of the present invention showing a uniform integrated structure of the portable desk  900  of the present invention. Such a structure is typically, but not limited to, formed by a manufacturing process such as injection molding of a lightweight plastic material. Suitable plastics include, but are not limited to, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). The portable desk  900  is comprised of a frame  902  having a louvered configuration of ventilation openings  904  formed by a grating or matrix  906 . The frame  902  has a front surface  924  and a rear surface  922 . The frame  902  typically is comprised of transverse or vertical cross members  902 V and lateral or horizontal cross members  902 H for structural integrity. Those skilled in the art recognize that other arrangements or configurations of the frame  902  and cross members  902 V and  902 H, such as polygonal, for example, quadrilateral or triangular, or curvilinear arrangements or configurations in the x-y plane, can be provided as well to achieve structural integrity, or the frame  902  can be designed to exclude such cross members. At a position typically adjacent to the rear surface  922  preferably are at arm rest or wrist rest areas  908  on the left and right sides of the rear of the frame  902 . The arm rest areas  908  typically are formed by a raised surface to minimize user fatigue, and can be recessed to project edges  920 . The arm rest areas  908  and their optional edges  920  can be formed either integrally as part of the frame structure  902  or optionally as a separate piece joined to the frame structure  902  at a joint such as joint  908 J which interfaces with the remainder of the frame structure  902 . The joining of the arm rest areas  908  to the remainder of the frame structure  902  at joint  908 J can be performed by well known means in the art such as by adhesion or mechanical joints. Right rear leg  910 R and left rear leg  910 L are positioned typically to provide stability during use. Each of the legs  910 R and  910 R are typically provided with foot pads  911 R and  911 L. A protrusion  912  at the front surface  924  is provided typically for at least one front leg  914 . The front leg typically includes a horizontal stabilizer connector base  916  and optionally extenders  918 L and  918 R to increase stability during use. The optional extenders  918 L and  918 R can be, if desired, provided with optional telescoping extenders  918 TL and  918 TR, respectively, which permit the span of the extenders to be varied for further stability.  
         [0097]      FIG. 9B  is a plan view as viewed from the bottom of the first alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 9A . Therefore, the view is reversed left-to-right as compared to  FIG. 9A .  FIG. 9B  shows sockets or accessory attachment points which are an integral part of the frame  902 . In particular, attachment points or bosses  926 L,  926 R,  928 L and  928 R serve multiple purposes, some of which are discussed later. In this first alternate configuration, the attachment points or bosses  926 L and  926 R are for legs  910 L and  910 R, respectively. At least a third attachment point  926 M is preferably provided to enable positioning of an accessory in the vicinity of the rear surface  922 , which is discussed later. At least a third attachment point or boss  928 M is provided typically on the bottom side of the protrusion  912 . The attachment points or bosses  930 A through  930 D, in the vicinity of the rear surface  922 , and the attachment points or bosses  930 E and  930 F, in the vicinity of the front surface  924  are provided typically to enable storage or transport or packing of the accessories or the legs such as  910 L,  910 R,  910 TL and  910 TR. The accessories are discussed later with respect to  FIGS. 10A-10G  and  11 A- 11 F.  
         [0098]     In addition, attachment points or bosses  946   a,    944   a,  and  948   a.  located near the center of the frame  902 , typically on the vertical member  902 V or at or near an intersection point between the vertical member  902 V and the horizontal position, permit a user to position a handle as close to the effective center of gravity of the frame  902  as possible. The effective center of gravity results from the combined weight and load distribution of the desk  900  and a typical load such as a portable computer. The attachment points or bosses  946   a  and  944   a  are analogous in function to the attachment points or bosses  546   a  and  544   a  of  FIGS. 1 through 4 A of the first embodiment.  
         [0099]      FIG. 9C  is an elevation view as viewed from the side of the of first alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 9A . In particular, the frame  902  is shown with the right rear leg  910 R and foot  911 R while the protrusion  912  is positioned on the front surface  924 . The raised surface of the arm rest or wrist rest  908  with the edge  920  is positioned in the vicinity of the rear surface  922 . In this case, an optional telescoping front leg portion  914 T is provided as part of front leg  914 . The connector base  916  and optional extenders  918 L and  918 R preferably have a circular or oval cross-section. In general, any one or all of the legs  910 R,  910 L and  914  can be provided with telescoping portions such as telescoping portion  914 T.  
         [0100]      FIG. 9D  is an elevation view as viewed from the rear of the first alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 9A . In particular,  FIG. 9D  illustrates the connector base  916  and optional extenders  918 L and  918 R.  
         [0101]     Similarly,  FIG. 9E  is a perspective view of the first alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 9A . Since all of the components are numbered identically as in  FIGS. 9A and 9B , no additional discussion is provided here.  
         [0102]     The second embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in  FIGS. 9A through 9E  show the portable desk of the first embodiment of  FIGS. 1 through 8  formed in a unitary integral manner. In addition, the screen mesh  610  of  FIG. 6A , the screen mesh  612 A and  612 B of  FIG. 6C , the screen mesh  616 A through  616 D of  FIG. 6C  can be applied as well on top of the grating or matrix  906  using the clips as would be obvious to those skilled in the art and as illustrated in  FIG. 8 . Similarly, the covering  710  can be applied as well using the same method illustrated in  FIG. 8 .  
         [0103]      FIG. 10A  is a plan view of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention. The main difference between the first and second alternate configurations of the second embodiment is that in the second alternate configuration, the frame  902  is now in a transport mode enabled by wheels  940 L and  940 R. The wheels  940 L and  940 R are connected by axle portions  938 L and  938 R and to axle connecting members  936 L and  936 R. The axle members are discussed in more detail with respect to  FIG. 10B  which follows. The transport mode is further enabled in that the front leg  914  and the optional telescoping portion of the front leg  914  are now directed in the same plane as the frame  902  by means of a tee connection  934  in the protrusion area  912 . The connector  916 , which is connected to the front leg  914  or the optional telescoping portion of the front leg  914 , acts as a handle for the user, thereby facilitating transport of the desktop  900  and the object such as a portable computer (not shown).  
         [0104]      FIG. 10B  is a plan view as viewed from the bottom of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A . The wheels  940 L and  940 R can be seen connected by axle members  938 L and  938 R to axle joints  936 L and  936 R. In turn, axle members  942 L and  942 R are also connected respectively to the axle joints  936 L and  936 R and are commonly connected to the central axle joint  936 M. Of course, those skilled in the art recognize that different combinations or quantities of axle joints and connectors can be used as well. The tee connection  934  is shown with the projection of the tee accommodating the front leg  914  which, as noted previously, acts as a handle for transport, together with the telescoping portion  914 T and handle  916 , as discussed previously.  
         [0105]      FIG. 10C  is an elevation view of a portion of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A . In particular,  FIG. 10C  shows the wheel and axle members  940 L,  938 L,  936 L,  942 L,  936 M,  942 R,  936 R,  938 R and  940 R, as being separated from the frame  902 .  
         [0106]      FIG. 10D  is an elevation view of an alternate position of the portion of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A . In particular,  FIG. 10D  shows the wheels  940 L and  940 R separated from the axle members  936 L,  942 L,  936 M,  942 R and  936 R. The axle connectors  936 L,  936 M and  936 R each have attachment points  936 PL,  936 PM and  936 PR, respectively for attachment of the axle connector and members to the frame  902 .  
         [0107]      FIG. 10E  is an elevation view as viewed from the side of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A . In particular, the tee ??? connection  934  is shown connecting the front leg  914 , which acts as a handle for transport, together with the telescoping portion  914 T and handle  916 , at the front protrusion  912  so as to accommodate the frame  902 .  
         [0108]      FIG. 10F  is an elevation view as viewed from the rear of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A . In particular,  FIG. 10F  shows the wheel and axle members  940 L,  938 L,  936 L,  942 L,  936 M,  942 R,  936 R,  938 R and  940 R from the rear surface  922 .  
         [0109]      FIG. 10G  is a perspective view of the second alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 10A . All of the members are as previously identified in the discussion for  FIGS. 10A through 10F , and will not be discussed further here.  
         [0110]      FIG. 11A  is a plan view of a third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention. In particular, the third alternate configuration enables a “2-wide” arrangement where two users can be sitting adjacent to each other while using the desktop  900 . The only difference between the third alternate configuration and the first and second alternate configurations is that in the third alternate or “2-wide” configuration, the frame  902  is supported by the front leg  914  and optional telescoping portion  914 T in the perpendicular or vertical position, as in the first alternate configuration of  FIGS. 9A through 9E , while the axle connectors and members  936 L,  942 L,  936 M,  942 R and  936 R are positioned without the wheels  940 L and  940 R, and the wheel connectors  938 L and  938 R, respectively. Horizontal extending elements  944 L and  944 R are now connected respectively to the connectors  936 L and  936 R so as to provide sufficient room for the two users to be seated each partially underneath the frame  902  of the desktop  900 . The left and right legs  910 L and  910 R, and the corresponding base feet  911 L and  911 R, respectively, are now connected to the horizontal extending elements  944 L and  944 R by means of connecting elbows  946 L and  946 R, respectively.  
         [0111]      FIG. 11B  is a plan view as viewed from the bottom of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11A . In particular,  FIG. 11B  shows the axle connectors and members  936 L,  942 L,  936 M,  942 R and  936 R positioned across the bottom surface of the frame  902  without the wheels  940 L and  940 R, and the wheel connectors  938 L and  938 R, respectively. As noted previously, the left and right legs  910 L and  910 R, and the corresponding base feet  911 L and  911 R, respectively, are now connected to the horizontal extending elements  944 L and  944 R by means of connecting elbows  946 L and  946 R, respectively.  
         [0112]      FIG. 11C  is a perspective view of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11A . In particular,  FIG. 11C  shows the span from left leg  910 L to right leg  910 R. All of the remaining components shown are the same as in  FIG. 11A and 11B .  
         [0113]      FIG. 11D  is a perspective view as viewed from the bottom of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11C .  FIG. 11D  shows the same components as  FIGS. 11A through 11C .  
         [0114]      FIG. 11E  is an elevation view as viewed from the rear of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11A . In particular,  FIG. 11E  shows the view from the rear surface  922  of the “2-wide” configuration. The components are the same as shown in  FIGS. 11A through 11D .  
         [0115]      FIG. 11F  is an exploded view of a portion of the third alternate configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 11A . Specifically,  FIG. 11F  shows the axle connectors and members  936 L,  942 L,  936 M,  942 R and  936 R, the left and right legs  910 L and  910 R, and the corresponding base feet  911 L and  911 R, respectively, connected to the horizontal extending elements  944 L and  944 R by means of connecting elbows  946 L and  946 R, respectively. All of these components are shown in exploded form. The axle portion comprises the axle connectors and members  936 L,  942 L,  936 M,  942 R and  936 R.  
         [0116]     As is the case for the first alternate configuration of  FIGS. 9A through 9E , for the second alternate configuration and the third alternate configuration of  FIGS. 10A through 10G  and  FIGS. 11A through 11F , the screen mesh  610  of  FIG. 6A , the screen mesh  612 A and  612 B of  FIG. 6C , the screen mesh  616 A through  616 D of  FIG. 6C  can be applied as well on top of the grating or matrix  906  using the clips as would be obvious to those skilled in the art and as illustrated in  FIG. 8 . Similarly, the covering  710  can be applied as well using the same method illustrated in  FIG. 8 .  
         [0117]     A fourth alternate configuration suitable for situations such as where the user is seated in a confined space such as an automobile and desires to rest the front leg  914  and optional telescoping portion  914 T and handle  916  on the top of a flat surface is seated partially under the frame  902  can be provided. The fourth alternate configuration is analogous to the configuration of  FIG. 3 . Again the screen mesh can be applied as discussed previously.  
         [0118]      FIG. 12A  is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the present invention. The desk top frame structure  902  is the same as that illustrated in  FIG. 9A through 11D  previously and so some of the details are being omitted from the discussion as having already been discussed previously.  FIG. 12B  is a perspective view of a detail of the third embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 12A .  
         [0119]     Referring to both  FIGS. 12A and 12B , the difference is now that, in addition to the axle joints  936 L,  936 M and  936 R and axle members  942 L and  942 R, the desk top frame structure  902  is now provided with additional joints  948 L and  948 R which are joined to an axle member  948 . The joints  948 L and  948 R each include attachment points  948 PL and  948 PR which enable attachment to the frame structure at attachment points or bosses  92   8 L and  928 R of  FIG. 9B . Similarly, the joints  936 L,  936 M and  936 R are attached to the attachment points or bosses  926 L and  926 R of  FIG. 9B .  
         [0120]     The purpose of the third embodiment is to enable a user to support the frame structure  902  by the user&#39;s own body typically from his or her shoulders typically while standing by means of shoulder straps (not shown) or from a surface that is at least above the user&#39;s mid-section or typically above the user&#39;s head typically while standing that is other than the floor on which the user is located. Therefore, the joints  948 L and  948 R and the joints  936 L and  936 R are now provided with support elbows  950 FR,  950 FL,  950 RL and  950 RR, respectively. Each of the support elbows  950 FR,  950 FL,  950 RL and  950 RR includes a ring or other engagement means  952 FR,  952 FL,  952 RL and  952 RR, respectively, to enable attachment of the shoulder straps or other support means to enable the user to support an object on top of the frame structure  902  without directly relying on the floor for support.  
         [0121]      FIG. 12C  is perspective view of a detail of the third embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 12B , and shows in detail the support elbows  950 FR,  950 FL,  950 RL and  950 RR including the ring or other engagement means  952 FR,  952 FL,  952 RL and  952 RR, respectively. Those skilled in the art recognize that there are numerous connection means or engagement means to supporting mechanisms that enable support of the desk top frame structure without directly relying on the floor for support. These include but are not limited to male and female type connections, either threaded or unthreaded as examples.  
         [0122]     The invention has now been explained with reference to specific embodiments. Other embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the foregoing description. It is not intended that this invention be limited except as indicated by the appended claims and their full scope equivalents.