Abstract:
A monitor stand for use in holding and maintaining a position of a monitor comprising a carrier adapted to removably and fixedly hold a monitor, the carrier including first and second trapezoidal shaped cubic mounting protrusions on a bottommost portion of the carrier, and wherein the carrier is further adapted to rotate between a first angular placement and a second angular placement, a base enclosure adapted to provide a substantially stable platform to hold the monitor in an upright condition and to provide a frictional engagement against which the carrier can rotate, the base enclosure including first and second base enclosure channels, a low friction insert adapted to be inserted between the carrier and the base enclosure and which is part of the frictional engagement of the base enclosure, the low friction insert including a first and second channel insertion portions adapted to fit into the first and second base enclosure channels respectively, and wherein the first and second trapezoidal shaped cubic mounting protrusions of the carrier fit into the first and second channel insertion portions, respectively, and first and second spring retention assemblies, each of which is adapted to provide a substantially constant rotational spring force against a direction of movement of the monitor due to gravity, and which are affixed to the first and second protrusions respectively.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    Technical Field 
         [0002]    Aspects of the embodiments relate to monitor stands that can rotate and hold in position a monitor for use as a stand-alone monitor (or display), or for use with a computer (such as, but not limited to a personal computer), or for use with an integrated automation system that includes centralized control for controlling numerous devices such as motorized shades, curtains, heating ventilation and air conditioning systems, security systems, lighting systems, audio-video devices and systems, among others, in either or both of a residential home and commercial enterprise. 
         [0003]    Background Art 
         [0004]    The use of monitors is virtually ubiquitous in today&#39;s computer/electronics driven society. Even though laptops and tablets are becoming increasingly more commonplace, standalone monitors are still very much used. In some cases, the standalone monitors are attached to computer and peripherals through cabling, and in some cases, the computer is integrated into the monitor (commonly referred to as “all-in-one&#39;s”). While strictly not a standalone monitor, in form and function, all-in-one computers are virtually identical to the standalone monitor that only houses the electronics and other circuitry dedicated to receiving, processing and displaying of video signals. 
         [0005]    Because the use of monitors, whether in the integrated or standalone form, is so prevalent, their use needs to be as convenient and efficient as possible. One aspect of convenience and efficiency is that the monitor be readily and easily adjustable according to the preference of the user. Accordingly, a need has arisen for a monitor that can be tilted to a specific angle, within a range of angles, and which does not move until specifically moved by a user. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    An object of the embodiments is to substantially solve at least the problems and/or disadvantages discussed above, and to provide at least one or more of the advantages described below. 
         [0007]    It is therefore a general aspect of the embodiments to provide a monitor stand that can rotate and hold in position a monitor for use as a stand-alone monitor (or display), or for use with a computer (such as, but not limited to a personal computer), or for use with an integrated automation system that includes centralized control for controlling numerous devices such as motorized shades, curtains, heating ventilation and air conditioning systems, security systems, lighting systems, audio-video devices and systems, among others, in either or both of a residential home and commercial enterprise. 
         [0008]    This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. 
         [0009]    Further features and advantages of the aspects of the embodiments, as well as the structure and operation of the various embodiments, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is noted that the aspects of the embodiments are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. Such embodiments are presented herein for illustrative purposes only. Additional embodiments will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. 
       Disclosure of Invention 
       [0010]    According to a first aspect of the embodiments, a monitor stand for use in holding and maintaining a position of a monitor is provided comprising: a carrier adapted to removably and fixedly hold a monitor, the carrier including first and second trapezoidal shaped cubic protrusions on a bottommost portion of the carrier, and wherein the carrier is further adapted to rotate between a first angular placement and a second angular placement; a base enclosure adapted to provide a substantially stable platform to hold the monitor in an upright condition, the base enclosure including first and second base enclosure channels; a low friction insert adapted to be inserted between the carrier and the base enclosure and which is part of the frictional engagement of the base enclosure, the low friction insert including a first and second channel insertion portions adapted to fit into the first and second base enclosure channels respectively, and wherein the first and second trapezoidal shaped cubic protrusions of the carrier fit into the first and second channel insertion portions, respectively; and first and second spring retention assemblies, each of which is adapted to provide a substantially constant rotational spring force against a direction of movement of the monitor due to gravity, and which are affixed to the first and second protrusions respectively. 
         [0011]    According to the first aspect of the embodiments, the first angular placement is about 20° from a vertical placement of the monitor, and the second angular placement is about 45° from a vertical placement of the monitor. According to the first aspect of the embodiments, the monitor is a display monitor and according to further aspects of the embodiments, the monitor is a personal computer all-in-one device. Still further according to the first aspect of the embodiments, the downward rotational movement is caused by user-induced movement, and/or gravity. 
         [0012]    According to a second aspect of the embodiments, a monitor stand for use in holding and maintaining a position of a monitor is provided, comprising: one or more spring retention assemblies adapted to provide a substantially constant rotational spring force that counteracts downward rotational motion of the monitor within and with respect to the monitor stand, such that the monitor remains substantially fixed and motionless when rotated to a new position by a user. 
         [0013]    According to the second aspects of the embodiments, the monitor stand further comprises: a base enclosure adapted to provide a substantially stable platform to hold the monitor in a variable upright condition and to provide a frictional engagement against which the carrier can rotate, the base enclosure including first and second base enclosure channels; a carrier adapted to removably and fixedly hold the monitor, the carrier including first and second trapezoidal shaped cubic mounting protrusions on a bottommost portion of the carrier, and wherein the carrier is further adapted to rotate between a first angular placement and a second angular placement with respect to the base enclosure; and a low friction insert adapted to be inserted between the carrier and the base enclosure and which is part of the frictional engagement of the base enclosure, the low friction insert including first and second channel insertion portions adapted to fit into the first and second base enclosure channels respectively, and wherein the first and second trapezoidal shaped cubic mounting protrusions of the carrier fit into the first and second channel insertion portions, respectively, and wherein the one or more spring retention assemblies are affixed to the first and second cubic mounting protrusions respectively. 
         [0014]    According to the second aspect of the embodiments, each of the one or more spring retention assemblies comprises a spring assembly bracket affixed to the base enclosure, and a substantially constant force rotational spring affixed to the spring assembly bracket, extendible from a first distance, when the monitor is at minimum angular displacement with respect to a substantially perpendicular displacement, to a second distance, when the monitor is at a maximum angular displacement with respect to the substantially perpendicular displacement. According to the second aspect of the embodiments, the spring force generated by the rotational spring is substantially constant when the rotational spring is extended at and between the first and second distances. 
         [0015]    According to the second aspect of the embodiments, the monitor stand further comprises a pressure plate affixed to the cubic mounting protrusion, the pressure plate including a first tab adapted to retain the rotational spring and secure the rotational spring to the carrier. 
         [0016]    Still further according to the second aspect of the embodiments, the rotational spring comprises a hole at a first end of the rotational spring, the hole adapted to fit about the first tab and to retain the rotational spring to the pressure plate, and the low friction insert is adapted to generate a frictional interface force between itself and the carrier, such that the generated frictional interface force is added to the spring force of the spring retention assemblies to resist rotational motion of the monitor. 
         [0017]    According to the second aspect of the embodiments, the generated frictional interface force is generated by a weight of the monitor and the frictional coefficient between a first material the carrier is made of, and a second material that the low friction insert is made of, and further wherein the first material is selected from the group consisting of aluminum and glass-filled polycarbonate, and the second material is selected from the group consisting of nylon, delrin, and Teflon. 
         [0018]    According to the second aspect of the embodiments, the generated frictional interface force is generated at a plurality of corresponding surfaces areas of the low friction insert and the carrier, and wherein the plurality of corresponding surface areas comprises a plurality of exterior surface area parts of the first and second trapezoidal shaped cubic mounting protrusions, a plurality of exterior surface area parts of the first and second channel insertion portions, and a portion of a bottom surface area of the carrier that contacts a portion of an upper surface area of the low friction insert. 
         [0019]    According to the second aspect of the embodiments, the first angular placement is about 20° from a vertical placement of the monitor, and the second angular placement is about 45° from a vertical placement of the monitor. 
         [0020]    According to the second aspect of the embodiments, the monitor is a display monitor. According to the second aspect of the embodiments, the monitor is a personal computer all-in-one device. Still further according to the second aspect of the embodiments, the downward rotational movement is caused by user-induced movement, and/or gravity. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0021]    The above and other objects and features of the embodiments will become apparent and more readily appreciated from the following description of the embodiments with reference to the following figures. Different aspects of the embodiments are illustrated in reference figures of the drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed herein are to be considered to be illustrative rather than limiting. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the aspects of the embodiments. In the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views. 
         Brief Description of the Several Views of the Drawing 
         [0022]      FIG. 1  illustrates an exploded view of a constant friction rotating monitor stand that comprises a first embodiment of a constant force spring retention assembly according to aspects of the embodiments. 
           [0023]      FIG. 2  illustrates a rear perspective view of the constant friction rotating monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with a monitor attached thereto according to aspects of the embodiments. 
           [0024]      FIG. 3  illustrates a right side sectional view of the constant friction rotating monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with a monitor attached thereto, and wherein the view also includes a view of the first embodiment of the constant force spring retention assembly according to aspects of the embodiments. 
           [0025]      FIG. 4  illustrates a close-up sectional side view of the first embodiment of a constant force spring retention assembly used in the monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with a rotational spring extended to a first position according to aspects of the embodiments. 
           [0026]      FIG. 5  illustrates a top view of a pressure plate assembly for use with the constant force spring retention assembly of  FIG. 4  according to an aspect of the embodiments. 
           [0027]      FIGS. 6A and 6B  illustrate different views, respectively, of a first embodiment of a constant force spring for use with the constant force spring retention assembly of  FIG. 4  according to an aspect of the embodiments. 
           [0028]      FIG. 7  illustrates a top view of a base enclosure for use with the constant friction rotating monitor stand of  FIG. 1  according to aspects of the embodiments. 
           [0029]      FIG. 8  illustrates a front view of the base enclosure as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0030]      FIG. 9  illustrates a right side view of the base enclosure as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0031]      FIG. 10  illustrates a top-front perspective view of the base enclosure as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0032]      FIG. 11  illustrates a top view of a low friction insert for use with the constant friction rotating monitor stand of  FIG. 1  according to aspects of the embodiments. 
           [0033]      FIG. 12  illustrates a bottom view of the low friction insert as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0034]      FIG. 13  illustrates a right side view of the low friction insert as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0035]      FIG. 14  illustrates a top perspective view of the low friction insert as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0036]      FIG. 15  illustrates a bottom perspective view of the low friction insert as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0037]      FIG. 16  illustrates a top view of a carrier for use with the constant friction rotating monitor stand of  FIG. 1  according to aspects of the embodiments. 
           [0038]      FIG. 17  illustrates a front view of the carrier as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0039]      FIG. 18  illustrates a right side view of the carrier as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0040]      FIG. 19  illustrates a bottom view of the carrier as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0041]      FIG. 20  illustrates a front-top perspective view of the carrier as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0042]      FIG. 21  illustrates a bottom perspective view of the carrier as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0043]      FIG. 22  illustrates a close-up sectional side view of the constant force spring retention assembly used in the constant friction rotating monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with the spring extended to a second position according to an aspect of the embodiments. 
           [0044]      FIGS. 23A and 23B  illustrate a right side view of a second embodiment of a constant force spring for use with a second embodiment of the constant force spring retention assembly according to aspects of the embodiments. 
           [0045]      FIG. 24  illustrates a close-up sectional side view of the second embodiment of the constant force spring retention assembly for use in the constant friction rotating monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with the second embodiment of the spring as shown in  FIGS. 23A and 23B  extended to a first position according to an aspect of the embodiments. 
           [0046]      FIG. 25  illustrates a right side view of the rotating monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with the monitor rotated to a substantially vertical position. 
           [0047]      FIG. 26  illustrates a right side view of the monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with the monitor rotated to about 15° from the vertical position. 
           [0048]      FIG. 27  illustrates a right side partial sectional view of the monitor stand and monitor of  FIG. 26 . 
           [0049]      FIG. 28  illustrates a right side view of the monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with the monitor rotated to about 20° from the vertical position. 
           [0050]      FIG. 29  illustrates a right side view of the monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with the monitor rotated to about 25° from the vertical position. 
           [0051]      FIG. 30  illustrates a right side view of the monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with the monitor rotated to about 45° from the vertical position. 
           [0052]      FIG. 31  illustrates a front view of the monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with the monitor rotated to about 20° from the vertical position. 
           [0053]      FIG. 32  illustrates a top view of the monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with the monitor rotated to about 20° from the vertical position. 
           [0054]      FIGS. 33 and 34  illustrate right side sectional views of monitor stand  100  at a first angular rotation and a second angular rotation illustrating a curvature of surfaces of the carrier, low friction insert, and base enclosure at an interface of the same, according to aspects of the embodiments 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0055]    The embodiments are described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the inventive concept are shown. In the drawings, the size and relative sizes of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The embodiments may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the inventive concept to those skilled in the art. The scope of the embodiments is therefore defined by the appended claims. The detailed description that follows is written from the point of view of a control systems company, so it is to be understood that generally the concepts discussed herein are applicable to various subsystems and not limited to only a particular controlled device or class of devices, such as monitor stands that can hold monitors for use in controlling one or more devices associated with the control systems of a home or commercial environment. 
         [0056]    Reference throughout the specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the embodiments. Thus, the appearance of the phrases “in one embodiment” on “in an embodiment” in various places throughout the specification is not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, the particular feature, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. 
       LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS FOR THE ELEMENTS IN THE DRAWINGS IN NUMERICAL ORDER 
       [0057]    The following is a list of the major elements in the drawings in numerical order.
     100  Constant Force Spring Rotating Monitor Stand (Monitor Stand)     102  Chassis Plate     104  Base Enclosure     106  Low Friction Insert (LFI)     108  Carrier     110  Carrier Inside Cover     112  Cable Cover     114  Input/Output (I/O) Cover     200  Monitor     300  Spring Retention Assembly (SRA)     302  Mounting Protrusion     402  Rotational Spring (Spring)     404  Spring Assembly Bracket     406  Pressure Plate (PP)     408  Pressure Plate Securing Screws (Screws)     502  Pressure Plate Screw Hole (Holes)     504  Pressure Plate Spring Retention Tab (Tab)     602  Coiled Portion     604  Extended Spring Portion     606  Spring Slot     702  Base Enclosure Channel (Left and Right)     704  First Base Enclosure Opening     706  Second Base Enclosure Opening     1002  Cable     1102  LFI Opening     1402  LFI Engagement Portion     1502  LFI Channel Insertion Portion (Left and Right)     2002  Carrier Opening     2102  Screw Mounting Holes     2104  Carrier Engagement Portion     2300  Second Rotational Spring     2302  Second Rotational Spring Coiled Portion (Coiled Portion)     2304  Second Rotational Spring Extended Spring Portion (Extended Spring Portion)     2306  Second Rotational Spring Slot (Spring Slot)   
 
       LIST OF ACRONYMS USED IN THE SPECIFICATION IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER 
       [0092]    The following is a list of the acronyms used in the specification in alphabetical order.
   HDMI High Definition Multimedia Interface   I/O Input/Output   LFI Low Friction Insert   PC Personal Computer   PP Pressure Plate   SRA Spring Retention Assembly   VGA Video Graphics Array   
 
       MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION 
       [0100]    The different aspects of the embodiments described herein pertain to the context of a monitor stand that can rotate and hold in position a monitor for use with an integrated automation system that includes centralized control for controlling numerous devices and systems such as motorized shades, curtains, heating ventilation and air conditioning systems, security systems, lighting systems, audio-video devices, among other systems and devices, in either or both of a residential home and commercial enterprise, but is not limited thereto, except as may be set forth expressly in the appended claims. 
         [0101]      FIG. 1  illustrates an exploded view of constant friction rotating monitor stand (monitor stand)  100  that comprises a first embodiment of a constant force spring retention assembly (although not shown in  FIG. 1 ), according to aspects of the embodiments, and  FIG. 2  illustrates a rear perspective view of monitor stand of  FIG. 1  with monitor  200  attached thereto according to aspects of the embodiments. 
         [0102]    For over  40  years Creston Electronics Inc., has been the world&#39;s leading manufacturer of advanced control and automation systems, innovating technology to simplify and enhance modern lifestyles and businesses. Crestron designs, manufactures, and offers for sale integrated solutions to control audio, video, computer, and environmental systems. In addition, the devices and systems offered by Crestron streamlines technology, improving the quality of life in commercial buildings, universities, hotels, hospitals, and homes, among other locations. Accordingly, the systems, methods, and modes of the various aspects of the embodiments described herein, as embodied as monitor stand  100 , can be manufactured by Crestron Electronics Inc., located in Rockleigh, N.J. 
         [0103]    Referring back to  FIG. 1 , rotating monitor stand  100  includes, among other components, spring retention assembly  300  (shown in  FIG. 3 ), chassis plate  102 , base enclosure  104 , low friction insert (LFI)  106 , carrier  108 , carrier inside cover  110 , cable cover  112 , and input/output (I/O) cover  114 , assembled in the manner as shown in  FIG. 1 .  FIGS. 7-10  illustrates different views of base enclosure  104  according to aspects of the embodiments.  FIGS. 11-15  illustrate different views of LFI  106  according to aspects of the embodiments.  FIGS. 16-21  illustrate different views of carrier  108  according to aspects of the embodiments. In fulfillment of the dual purposes of clarity and brevity, a detailed discussion of the nature and assembly of these components, except where necessary to understand the aspects of the embodiments, has been omitted from the description herein. 
         [0104]      FIG. 3  illustrates a right side sectional view of monitor stand  100  of  FIG. 1  with monitor  200  attached thereto, and wherein the view also includes a view of a first embodiment of spring retention assembly (SRA)  300  according to aspects of the embodiments. Chassis plate  102  encloses a bottommost portion of base enclosure  104 , leaving an opening at the rear for cables to go into and out of monitor stand  100 . Such cables can include a video cable (video graphics array (VGA) cable, high definition multi-media (HDMI) cable, among other types of video/audio cable) as well as one or more separate power and speaker cables, among other types of cable. 
         [0105]    Attention is now directed to  FIG. 4 , which illustrates a close-up sectional side view of the first embodiment of SRA  300  for use in monitor stand  100  of  FIG. 1  with rotational spring (spring)  402  extended to a first position according to aspects of the embodiments. According to further aspects of the embodiments, there can be two such SRAs  300 , and therefore two mounting protrusions  302 . Attention is also directed to  FIGS. 10, 14, 15, and 21 . 
         [0106]    According to aspects of the embodiments, carrier  108 , as shown in  FIGS. 16-21 , is adapted to be removably attached to, retain, and carry monitor  200 . That is, the entire weight of monitor  200  is first borne by carrier  108 , and the weight is thereafter transferred to the other components of the assembly of monitor stand  100 . Carrier  108  comprises, among other components, right and left mounting protrusions  302   a,b . In assembly, right mounting protrusion  302   a  of carrier  108  fits into right LFI channel insertion portion  1502   a  (shown in  FIG. 15 ), and LFI channel insertion portion  1502   a  itself fits into base enclosure channel  702   a  (shown in  FIG. 10 ). Right mounting protrusion  302   a  is designed such that it extends just below a bottom-most portion of base enclosure channel  702   a  so that pressure plate (PP)  406  (which is part of SRA  300 ) can be assembled thereto, in a manner described in greater detail below. According to further aspects of the embodiments, the opposite components of left mounting protrusion  302   b , left LFI channel insertion portion  1502   b , and base enclosure channel  702   b  fit together in a substantially similar manner. 
         [0107]    In assembly, therefore, carrier  108  mates and engages with an upper surface of LFI  106 , with a frictional interface there between, and LFI  106  sits on top of base enclosure  104 . Carrier  108  is adapted to slide, in a frictionally engaging manner, against LFI  106 , and LFI  106  remains relatively static with respect to base enclosure  104 . That is, carrier engagement portion  2104  (shown as a slightly shaded area in  FIG. 21 ) is adapted to frictionally slide against LFI engagement portion  1402 , which is essentially the entire upper surface of LFI  106  (as shown in  FIG. 14 ). 
         [0108]    According to aspects of the embodiments, carrier  108  can be manufactured from a first material that has a particular coefficient of friction in regard to a second material that can be used to manufacture LFI  106 . According to further aspects of the embodiments, the selection of the first and second materials can be such that the respective coefficient of friction between them is adapted to work with spring  402  in such a manner that the spring constant k is a reasonably affordable and attainable value that can be readily designed from commonly available metals, and the like. That is, according to aspects of the embodiments, it is desirable to obtain readily affordable components, and as such, the first and second materials and spring  402  would all be selected to make an affordable monitor stand  100  according to aspects of the embodiments. According to further aspects of the embodiments, the first material can be one of aluminum, glass filled polycarbonate, or other similar material or plastics. According to further aspects of the embodiments, the second material can be one of nylon, delrin, Teflon, or other similar materials. 
         [0109]    In addition, right and left mounting protrusions  302   a,b  are adapted to be inserted into and frictionally engage with left and right low friction insert channel insertion portions  1502   a,b  (shown in  FIG. 15 ), respectively. The longer side walls of right and left mounting protrusions  302   a,b  are adapted to slide against the inner side walls of LFI channel insertion portions  1502   a,b , in a substantially similar frictionally engaging manner as the engagement portions  2104  and  1402 . 
         [0110]    Referring again to  FIG. 4 , SRA  300  comprises rotational spring  402 , spring assembly bracket  404  (to hold spring  402 ), PP  406 , and PP securing screws (screws)  408 . PP  406  is shown in detail in  FIG. 5 , and comprises first and second screw holes (holes)  502   a,b  and spring retention tab (tab)  504 . PP  406  is affixed to mounting protrusion  302  by securing screws  408  into screw mounting holes  2102  (more clearly seen in  FIG. 21 ). In addition, there is a frictional engagement between PP  406  and lower surface of LFI channel insertion portion  1502  because PP  406  overhangs on both sides of mounting protrusions  302 ; thus, mounting protrusions  302  are designed to be of such height that when PP  406  is attached to mounting protrusions  302 , PP  406  slides against a lower surface of base LFI channel insertion portion  1502 . Thus, third material is chosen to manufacture PP  406  such that a certain amount of friction is generated between PP  406  and the lower surface of base LFI channel insertion portion  1502 . According to further aspects of the embodiments, the third material can be one of spring steel, phosphor bronze, beryllium copper, or some other similar material. 
         [0111]    As those of skill in the art can appreciate, additional means for securing PP  406  to mounting protrusion  302  can be used in accordance with aspects of the embodiments. PP  406  is adapted to include tab  504  that interfaces with spring  402 . Referring to  FIGS. 6A and 6B , which illustrate spring  402 , it can be seen that spring  402  comprises coiled portion  602 , extended spring portion  604 , and spring slot  606 . Spring slot  606  is adapted to receive tab  504  of PP  406  to secure spring  402  to PP  406 , which is secured to carrier  108  (which carries monitor  200 ). According to further aspects of the embodiments, mounting protrusions  302  can be manufactured with tabs that retain spring  402  in a substantially similar manner as does PP  406 , or, spring  402  can be secured directly to mounting protrusion  302  via screws  408  and screw mounting holes  2102 , as those of skill in the art can appreciate. 
         [0112]    Furthermore, as those of skill in the art can appreciate, monitors  200  can be relatively heavy. Because of gravity, monitor  200  and monitor stand  100  wants to rotate in a clockwise direction (when viewed as in  FIGS. 4 and 22 , in the direction of arrow B in  FIG. 4 ) and “bottom out” at about a 45° angle off of vertical. However, there are at least three sources of friction plus the force provided by spring  402  that counteracts the gravitational pull to keep monitor  200  and monitor stand  100  substantially stable, regardless of the angular placement it is positioned to according to aspects of the embodiments. The three main sources of friction are: (a) the interface between carrier engagement portion  2104  and LFI engagement portion  1402 ; (b) the interface between the outer surfaces of mounting protrusions  302  and inner walls of base enclosure channels  702 ; and (c) the interface between PP  406  and a lower surface of LFI channel insertion portion  1502 . The force exerted by spring  402  acts in the direction of arrow A in  FIG. 4  to pull back carrier  108  and monitor  200  in the direction that opposes the rotational motion caused by gravity. 
         [0113]    Reference is now made to  FIGS. 4 and 22 , which illustrate two different extensions of spring  402  that correspond to two different angular placements of monitor  200  on monitor stand  100  according to aspects of the embodiments. In  FIG. 4 , spring  402  is extended a distance I, and monitor  200  is at a first angle θ 1  of about 20°. In  FIG. 22 , a user has rotated monitor  200  to a second angle θ 2  of about 45°, and spring  402  has been extended to a second distance I 2 . According to aspects of the embodiments, rotational spring  402  asserts a substantially constant force over the range of rotation angles of monitor  200 ; that is, regardless of the rotation of monitor stand  100 , the force exerted by spring  402  is substantially constant. Those of skill in the art can appreciate that while the spring constant is substantially constant, so that when the distance changes between I 1  and I 2  the force is different, the change in force is a substantially small fraction of the overall force exerted by spring  402  such that it can be considered negligible. The force generated by spring  402  is such that when monitor stand  100  is rotated to its uppermost position (about 20°) and exerts the greatest down-ward rotating force due to gravity (or clockwise, as viewed in the direction of arrow B shown in  FIGS. 4 and 22 ), the friction generated by the interactions discussed above and the force of spring  402  keep monitor stand  100  substantially still. 
         [0114]    Attention is directed to  FIGS. 23A and 23B , which illustrate second rotational spring (rotational spring)  2300 . It can be seen in  FIG. 23  that spring  2300  comprises second rotational spring coiled portion (coiled portion)  2302 , second rotational spring extended spring portion (extended spring portion)  2304 , and second rotational spring slot (spring slot)  2306 . Spring slot  2306  is adapted to receive tab  504  of PP  406  to secure rotational spring  2300  to PP  406 , which is secured to carrier  108  (which carries monitor  200 ). According to further aspects of the embodiments, mounting protrusions  302  can be manufactured with tabs that retain rotational spring  2300  in a substantially similar manner as does PP  406 , or, rotational spring  230  can be secured directly to mounting protrusion  302  via screws  408  and screw mounting holes  2102 , as those of skill in the art can appreciate. 
         [0115]    Reference is now made to  FIG. 24 , which illustrates an extension of rotational spring  2300  that corresponds to an angular placement of monitor  200  on monitor stand  100 ′ according to aspects of the embodiments. Monitor stand  100 ′, which is substantially similar in all features as monitor stand  100  except as described herein, comprises second SRA  2400 . Second SRA  2400  includes substantially all the same components, arranged in a substantially similar manner, as that of SRA  300 , with the exception of second rotational spring  2300 , which is rotated in manner opposite to that of spring  402 . Nonetheless, the force exerted by second rotational spring  2300 , shown by arrow C in  FIG. 24 , is applied in a substantially similar direction as the force exerted by spring  402  as shown by arrow A in  FIG. 4 , and acts in a substantially similar manner to counter-act rotation of monitor stand  100 ′ in a clockwise direction (as viewed in the direction of  FIG. 24 ). 
         [0116]    Attention is now directed to the balance of the Figures.  FIG. 7  illustrates a top view of base enclosure  104  for use with monitor stand  100  of  FIG. 1  (and monitor stand  100 ′) according to aspects of the embodiments,  FIG. 8  illustrates a front view of base enclosure  104 ,  FIG. 9  illustrates a right side view of base enclosure  104 , and  FIG. 10  illustrates a top-front perspective view of base enclosure  104 . With reference to each of  FIGS. 7-10, 11-15, 16-21, and 25-32 , described below, only monitor stand  100  is referenced; however, it should be understood that, as described above, each of these Figures also describes use of monitor stand  100 ′ according to aspects of the embodiments. 
         [0117]      FIG. 11  illustrates a top view of low friction insert  106  for use with monitor stand  100  of  FIG. 1  according to aspects of the embodiments,  FIG. 12  illustrates a bottom view of low friction insert  106 ,  FIG. 13  illustrates a right side view of low friction insert  106 ,  FIG. 14  illustrates a top perspective view of low friction insert  106 , and  FIG. 15  illustrates a bottom perspective view of low friction insert  106 . 
         [0118]      FIG. 16  illustrates a top view of carrier  108  for use with monitor stand  100  of Figure according to aspects of the embodiments,  FIG. 17  illustrates a front view of carrier  108 ,  FIG. 18  illustrates a right side view of carrier  108 ,  FIG. 19  illustrates a bottom view of carrier  108 ,  FIG. 20  illustrates a front-top perspective view of carrier  108 , and  FIG. 21  illustrates a bottom perspective view of carrier  108 . 
         [0119]      FIG. 25  illustrates a right side view of monitor stand  100  with monitor  200  rotated to a substantially vertical position,  FIG. 26  illustrates a right side view of monitor stand  100  with monitor  200  rotated to about 15° from the vertical position, and  FIG. 27  illustrates a right side partial sectional view of monitor stand  100  and monitor  200  of  FIG. 26 .  FIG. 28  illustrates a right side view of monitor stand  100  with monitor  200  rotated to about 20° from the vertical position,  FIG. 29  illustrates a right side view of monitor stand  100  with monitor  200  rotated to about 25° from the vertical position, and  FIG. 30  illustrates a right side view of monitor stand  100  with monitor  200  rotated to about 45° from the vertical position.  FIG. 31  illustrates a front view of monitor stand  100  of  FIG. 1  with monitor  200  rotated to about 20° from the vertical position, and  FIG. 32  illustrates a top view of monitor stand  100  with monitor  200  rotated to about 20° from the vertical position. 
         [0120]    According to further aspects of the embodiments, monitor stand  100  (and  100 ′) incorporates additional further features that make it versatile and functional in regard to use with monitor  200 . As briefly discussed above, there are openings in several of the components of monitor stand  100  that enable one or more cables for use with monitor  200 ; as those of skill in the art can appreciate, monitor  200  does not necessarily limit the device carried by carrier  108  to be just a monitor; it can also be an “all-in-one” personal computer, meaning that the cables that traverse through the openings can include power, printer, network, and speaker cables, and the like. 
         [0121]    Attention is directed to  FIGS. 7, 8, 10, 11, 14, and 20 . As shown in 
         [0122]      FIGS. 7 and 8 , there is an opening in the central portion of base enclosure  104  referred to as first base enclosure opening  704 . Also shown in  FIG. 7  is second base enclosure opening  706 , which is formed at a rear portion of base enclosure  104 . Both of first and second base enclosure openings  704 ,  706  are also shown and referenced in  FIG. 8 ; in this Figure, it can be readily seen that second base enclosure opening  706  is formed by making a rear portion of base enclosure  104  in such a manner that there is a raised portion of the rear portion forming the second opening  706 .  FIG. 10  illustrates how cable  1002  can readily pass through first and second base enclosure openings  704 ,  706 . 
         [0123]      FIG. 14  is a top perspective view of LFI  106 , and illustrates LFI opening  1102 , through which cable  1002  can pass. LFI  106  is designed and fabricated to fit over base enclosure  104  in such a manner that LFI opening  1102  aligns with first base enclosure opening  704  so that cable  1002  can pass through the two items when joined together.  FIG. 20  illustrates a front perspective view of carrier  108 ; also shown in  FIG. 20  is carrier opening  2002 , through which cable  1002  passes through as shown. When carrier  108  is located through assembly of monitor stand  100 / 100 ′ on top of LFI  106 , which is then located on top of base enclosure  104 , all of the openings are substantially aligned; however, since carrier  108  moves relative to LFI  106  and base enclosure  104  (the latter two which are stationary and mated together in the manner described above), carrier opening  2002  can be larger in length according to an aspect of the embodiments (to accommodate the rotation of carrier  108 ) than either of LFI opening  1102  and first base enclosure  704 . According to further aspects of the embodiments, carrier opening  2002 , LFI opening  1102  and first base enclosure can all be of substantially similar length. Thus, in combination, cable  1002  can pass through carrier opening  2002 , LFI opening  1102 , first base enclosure opening  702 , and then through second base enclosure opening  706  according to aspects of the embodiments. In this manner, monitor  200  can be rotated between a first angle of rotation to a second angle or rotation and the cables connecting monitor  200  to peripheral equipment can be hidden out of sight, and will not bind nor become entangled with any portion of monitor stand  100 / 100 ′ according to aspects of the embodiments. 
         [0124]    According to still further aspects of the embodiments, monitor stand  100  (and  100 ′) incorporates additional further features that make it versatile and functional in regard to use with monitor  200 . Attention is directed towards  FIGS. 1, 10, 33, and 34 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , monitor stand  100  (and monitor stand  100 ′) comprises several components including, among others, carrier  108 , LFI  106  and base enclosure  104 . According to aspects of the embodiments, each of carrier  108 , LFI  106 , and base enclosure  14  are designed and fabricated, as described above, to interface with each in a manner that allows a user or operator of monitor stand  100  to readily and easily rotate monitor  200  to any angular placement between about 20° to about 45° from the vertical for viewing. As part of the means for accomplishing the rotation between the two angular displacements, the components described above are designed and manufactured to interface with each other in a substantially close and fitting manner. 
         [0125]    To effectuate this close and fitting interface, each of carrier  108 , LFI  106  and base enclosure  104  have a portion thereof manufactured with a substantially similar curvature, as shown in detail in  FIG. 10  (with respect to base enclosure  104 ), and  FIGS. 33 and 34  (with respect to LFI  106  and carrier  108 ). That is, referring to  FIG. 10 , base enclosure  104  is shown and the portion thereof that interfaces with LFI  106  (and carrier  108 ) has a curvature r BE  as shown in the Figure. The curvature r BE  can be that of an ellipse, or oval, or it can be circular, or it can be some other curvature that it is not readily identifiable by a mathematical operation but nonetheless is fixed and ascertainable and designed and implemented to make operation of monitor stand  100  perform in the manner intended. Curvatures r C  and r LFI , which are, respectively, the curvature of the surfaces of carrier  108  and LFI  106  and are designed to be substantially similar to r BE . That is, according to an aspect of the embodiments, r BE  is substantially equal to r LFI , which is substantially equal to r C . According to further aspects of the embodiments, the curvatures r BE , r LFI , and r C  do not necessarily define a radius of curvature, but instead define a curved surface such as that shown in the Figures. 
         [0126]    As discussed in regard to the Figures above, reference is made to several dimensions, including several radii, angles, height, among other dimensions. Those of skill in the art can appreciate that although examples of dimensions are provided, these should not be taken in a limiting manner; that is, the aspects of the embodiments are not to be construed as defined or limited by the specific example of the dimensions shown and discussed, but instead are provided merely for illustrating an example of what a device that incorporates the aspects of the embodiments could, in a non-limiting manner, look like. Furthermore, as those of skill in the art can appreciate, since the aspects of the embodiments are directed towards a physical object, with dimensional characteristics, all of the parts will have various dimensions, some of which are not shown in fulfillment of the dual purposes of clarity and brevity. According to still further aspects of the embodiments, some of these objects will have dimensional characteristics that lend themselves to aesthetic aspects; in fulfillment of the dual purposes of clarity and brevity, dimensions in this regard have also been omitted. Therefore, as the aspects of the embodiments are directed towards a rotating monitor stand for use with a monitor, it is to be understood that the dimensions of the different objects, some dimensions shown, some dimensions not shown, will be understood by those of skill in the art. 
       INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY 
       [0127]    To solve the aforementioned problems, the aspects of the embodiments are directed towards a monitor stand that can rotate and hold in position a monitor for use as a stand-alone monitor (or display), or for use with a computer (such as, but not limited to a personal computer), or for use with an integrated automation system that includes centralized control for controlling numerous devices such as motorized shades, curtains, heating ventilation and air conditioning systems, security systems, lighting systems, audio-video devices and systems, among others, in either or both of a residential home and commercial enterprise 
         [0128]    The disclosed embodiments provide a monitor stand system for supporting and rotating a monitor to a desired position. It should be understood that this description is not intended to limit the embodiments. On the contrary, the embodiments are intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, which are included in the spirit and scope of the embodiments as defined by the appended claims. Further, in the detailed description of the embodiments, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a comprehensive understanding of the claimed embodiments. However, one skilled in the art would understand that various embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. 
         [0129]    Although the features and elements of aspects of the embodiments are described being in particular combinations, each feature or element can be used alone, without the other features and elements of the embodiments, or in various combinations with or without other features and elements disclosed herein. 
         [0130]    This written description uses examples of the subject matter disclosed to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the same, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims. 
         [0131]    The above-described embodiments are intended to be illustrative in all respects, rather than restrictive, of the embodiments. Thus the embodiments are capable of many variations in detailed implementation that can be derived from the description contained herein by a person skilled in the art. No element, act, or instruction used in the description of the present application should be construed as critical or essential to the embodiments unless explicitly described as such. Also, as used herein, the article “a” is intended to include one or more items. 
         [0132]    All United States patents and applications, foreign patents, and publications discussed above are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
       Alternate Embodiments 
       [0133]    Alternate embodiments may be devised without departing from the spirit or the scope of the different aspects of the embodiments.