Patent Description:
The invention relates generally to computer systems, and more particularly to a mounting system that supports quick installation and removal of a computer terminal from a mounting station.

Computer terminals are often deployed in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, shop floors, outdoors, and other harsh usage environments to collect and display data. These computer terminals are typically designed with certain features, such as a waterproof housing that houses electrical components of the computer terminal, to reliably operate in the harsh environments and to provide a controlled environment for the installed electronics. However, even these rugged computer terminals are susceptible to failure that is often caused by the environment or by an operator.

Conventional computer terminals are generally constructed as a single, integrated unit, such that the electrical components are housed in a single protective environment. Thus, when the computer terminal fails or experiences damage, the entire computer terminal has to be taken out of service. When deployed in a warehouse or other commercial or industrial environment, computer terminals are often attached in a semi-permanent way to either a support structure, such as a wall, or to a vehicle, such as a forklift or other utility vehicle. In addition, electrical wires are often connected between the computer terminal and a power source and/or peripheral devices, such as a bar code scanner in a warehouse application. Replacement of such computer terminals often requires a skilled technician rather than a general laborer. The replacement of a semi-permanently installed computer terminal also requires a significant amount of time. If a computer terminal is attached to a vehicle, this can render the vehicle inoperable for its intended use until the failed or damaged computer terminal is replaced, leading to additional losses in productivity.

Accordingly, a need exists in the art for an improved mounting system that supports quicker and simpler installation, removal, and replacement of a computer terminal.

<CIT> discloses a method and apparatus for attaching display panels onto a flat surface using a surface mounted holder. The holder includes a plurality of springy electrical contacts and a plurality of hooks each having a latch. The rear surface of the display device includes corresponding electrical contacts for corresponding with the plurality of springy electrical contacts and sockets each with a convex area corresponding to the hooks each having a latch. The method includes mounting the sockets onto the hooks and pushing the display device toward the flat surface by overcoming a biasing force of the springy contacts; and sliding the display device in a direction opposite to the direction of the hooks until the springy electrical contacts engage the corresponding electrical contacts and every convex area is latched by every latch, and is secured by the biasing force for preventing accidental release of the display device.

<CIT> discloses a monitoring and control device for use in a remote monitoring and control system, a device housing has a socket located behind a display panel and an external storage medium including a rewritable memory is removably mounted in the socket. The device housing is attached in an attachment hole formed in a wall in a state that the external storage medium is mounted in the socket. A control unit performs a setting operation for a graphic image displayed on the display panel and for the load control in accordance with setting information stored in the external storage medium. The external storage medium is inserted in the socket through an insertion slot formed in a side portion of the device housing, at least a portion of the insertion slot being received in the attachment hole in a state that the device housing is attached to the wall.

<CIT> discloses a universal, quick connector apparatus for an LCD monitor comprising two components. The first component is fixedly secured to a housing of an LCD monitor and includes a wedge shaped projection or protrusion and a first electrical connector. The second component forms a docking station and is fixedly secured to any other support surface where the LCD monitor is to be attached and supported from. The second component includes a second electrical connector intended to matingly engage with the first electrical connector. The LCD monitor is attached to the second component by slidably engaging the wedge shaped protrusion or projection of the first component into a wedge shaped recess formed in the second component. This automatically centers the two electrical connectors before they matingly engage one another and prevents damage to the male pins of the male electrical connector.

<CIT> discloses an engaging device for a computer screen in a car, comprising a fixing base fixedly attached in the car, lock block, and a coupling frame attached to the rear side of the computer screen. The lock block rotatably engages with the fixing base by way of two pivots.

The present invention provides for a mounting system, mounting station and computer terminal as claimed in the accompanying claims.

These and other aspects, features, and embodiments of the invention will become apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of illustrated embodiments exemplifying the best mode for carrying out the invention as presently perceived.

For a more complete understanding of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:.

The drawings illustrate only exemplary embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, as the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. The elements and features shown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Additionally, certain dimensions may be exaggerated to help visually convey such principles.

The following description of exemplary embodiments refers to the attached drawings. Any spatial references herein such as, for example, "upper," "lower," "above," "below," "rear," "between," "vertical," "angular," "beneath," etc., are for the purpose of illustration only and do not limit the specific orientation or location of the described structure.

Referring now to the figures, in which like numerals represent like (but not necessarily identical) elements throughout the figures, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described in detail. <FIG> depict an exemplary mounting station <NUM> and a computer terminal <NUM> removably attachable to the mounting station <NUM>. In particular, <FIG> are perspective views of the mounting station <NUM> and the computer terminal <NUM> with the computer terminal <NUM> detached from the mounting station <NUM>; <FIG> is a rear elevation view of the computer terminal <NUM>; <FIG> is an elevation view of the mounting station <NUM>; <FIG> are elevation views of the computer terminal <NUM> and the mounting station <NUM> with the computer terminal <NUM> attached to the mounting station <NUM>; and <FIG> and <FIG> are cross-sectional views of portions of the computer terminal <NUM> and the mounting station <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, computer terminals <NUM> are often used in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, shop floors, outdoors, and other applications to collect and display data. The exemplary computer terminal <NUM> and mounting station <NUM> enable a user to quickly and easily attach and detach the computer terminal <NUM> from the mounting station <NUM>, for example if the computer terminal <NUM> is damaged. In a typical application, the mounting station <NUM> is attached in a semi-permanent manner to a vehicle, such as a forklift, utility truck, lift truck or other type of vehicle, or to a non-mobile structure, such as a wall, column, conduit, or pedestal. As best seen in <FIG>, the mounting station <NUM> includes a ball-shaped coupler <NUM> that can be removably installed in a socket coupler. In one example, the ball-shaped coupler <NUM> can be attached to a socket coupler of a swing arm attached to a forklift. The swing arm can be moved relative to the forklift to position the mounting station <NUM> and thus, the computer terminal <NUM> attached to the mounting station <NUM>, based on user preference. One of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure would appreciate that the ball-shaped coupler <NUM> is only one of many mechanisms that can used to attach the mounting station <NUM> to another object.

The exemplary mounting station <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> that protects internal components from the environment. In certain exemplary embodiments, the housing <NUM> includes a waterproof and/or dustproof housing that prevents water (or dust) from entering the housing <NUM> and damaging the internal components. The housing <NUM> and certain exemplary internal components of the mounting station <NUM> are discussed in further detail below in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>.

The exemplary mounting station <NUM> also includes a power input port <NUM> disposed on a side of the housing <NUM> for receiving a power cable and for providing power to the computer terminal <NUM>. The mounting station <NUM> also includes a power switch <NUM> for selectively providing power from the power input port <NUM> to the computer terminal <NUM> and a replaceable fuse <NUM> that limits damage to the external source of power, the mounting station <NUM>, and the computer terminal <NUM> in case of electrical failure. Supply power is routed from the power input port <NUM> to an electrical connector <NUM> via the power switch <NUM>, the fuse <NUM>, and one or more electrical conductors. As discussed in further detail below, electrically conductive pins <NUM> of the connector <NUM> contact electrically conductive surfaces <NUM> of a printed circuit board <NUM> disposed on the computer terminal <NUM> to provide supply power to the computer terminal <NUM> when the computer terminal <NUM> is attached to the mounting station <NUM>.

The mounting station <NUM> also includes several data communication ports, each for receiving a communication cable. In particular, the exemplary mounting station <NUM> includes two serial communication ports <NUM>, <NUM>, a universal serial bus ("USB") port <NUM>, and a controller area network ("CAN") bus and audio port <NUM>. In certain alternative exemplary embodiments, one or more of the communication ports <NUM>-<NUM> may be excluded or other types of data communication ports may be included with the mounting station <NUM>. Data is routed between each communication port <NUM>-<NUM> (and devices connected to the communication ports <NUM>-<NUM>) and the computer terminal <NUM> via the electrical connector <NUM> and the printed circuit board <NUM> of the computer terminal <NUM>. As discussed in further detail in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>, one or more electrical conductors or cables connect each communication port <NUM>-<NUM> to the electrical connector <NUM>. Peripheral devices, such as bar code scanners, can be connected to the computer terminal <NUM> via the communication ports <NUM>-<NUM>. Throughout the discussion of exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the terms "data" and "information" are used interchangeably herein to refer to text, images, audio, video, or any other form of information that can exist in a computer-based environment.

The power input port <NUM> and the communication ports <NUM>-<NUM> are advantageously located on the mounting station <NUM> rather than the computer terminal <NUM> to support simpler and quicker replacement of the computer terminal <NUM>. As the power supply cable and the communication cables are attached to the mounting station <NUM> rather than the computer terminal <NUM>, these cables can remain connected during computer terminal replacement. This is particularly advantageous for entities that require an electrician or other skilled laborer to connect and disconnect electrical wiring. As the cables are left connected, a general or unskilled laborer can attach and detach the computer terminal <NUM> from the mounting station <NUM>. This also leads to quicker installation and replacement times as less steps are needed to complete the installation or replacement of the computer terminal <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the components <NUM>-<NUM> are disposed on a side of the housing <NUM> away from the ball-shaped coupler <NUM> and away from the side of the housing <NUM> that receives the computer terminal <NUM>. This location for the components <NUM>-<NUM> enables the mounting station <NUM> to be installed on a swing arm without limiting the swing arm's range of motion by the electrical cables connected to the mounting station <NUM>. Having the components <NUM>-<NUM> disposed at an angle with respect to the side of the housing <NUM> also supports increased range of motion of a swing arm.

The exemplary computer terminal <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> that protects internal components from the environment. In certain exemplary embodiments, the housing <NUM> includes a waterproof and/or dustproof housing that prevents water (or dust) from entering the housing <NUM> and damaging the internal components. The computer terminal <NUM> also includes a front panel <NUM> disposed on the front of the housing <NUM>. In certain exemplary embodiments, the front panel <NUM> is removable from the computer terminal <NUM>, as discussed in further detail below in connection with <FIG>.

The computer terminal <NUM> also includes a display <NUM> having a display screen visible through the front panel <NUM>. For example, the display <NUM> may include a liquid crystal display ("LCD") or a display having a touch sensitive screen <NUM> (<FIG>). The front panel <NUM> includes a keyboard or keypad <NUM> and user configurable keys <NUM>. A user can use the keypad <NUM>, user configurable keys <NUM> and touch sensitive screen <NUM> to enter commands and data to the computer terminal <NUM>. The computer terminal <NUM> also includes a stylus <NUM> removably attached to the housing <NUM>. A user can use the stylus <NUM> to interact with the touch sensitive screen.

The front panel <NUM> also includes several labels <NUM>-<NUM> disposed near the top of the front panel <NUM>. These labels <NUM>-<NUM> can be used to display brand names, company names, or any other information. As the computer terminal <NUM> is removable from the mounting station <NUM>, the computer terminals <NUM> can be rebranded with different labels <NUM>-<NUM> for different customers while providing the same or similar mounting stations <NUM> to the customers. For example, two different customers may order the same models of computer terminal <NUM> and mounting station <NUM>. Both customers can receive the same mounting station <NUM> and the same computer terminals <NUM>, but having different labels <NUM>-<NUM> on the computer terminals <NUM>.

The computer terminal <NUM> also includes several connectors <NUM> for connecting to external antennas. For example, one or more of Wi-Fi, global positioning system ("GPS"), and Mobile Net antennas may be connected to the computer terminal <NUM> via the connectors <NUM>. In certain exemplary embodiments, the connectors <NUM> are female SubMiniature version A ("SMA") connectors or another type of radio frequency ("RF") connector. In certain alternative embodiments, one or more of the connectors <NUM> are disposed on the mounting station <NUM>. In such an embodiment, data may be routed between the connectors <NUM> and the computer terminal <NUM> via the electrical connector <NUM>, the printed circuit board <NUM>, and one or more electrical conductors.

<FIG> is a block diagram depicting components of the computer terminal <NUM>, in accordance with certain exemplary embodiments. In particular, <FIG> illustrates certain electronic components disposed inside the housing <NUM> and their connections to the other components of the computer terminal <NUM> discussed above. Referring to <FIG>, the computer terminal <NUM> includes a processing unit <NUM>, a system memory <NUM>, and a system bus <NUM> that couples various system components, including the system memory <NUM>, to the processing unit <NUM>. The system bus <NUM> can include any of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, or a local bus, using any of a variety of bus architectures. The system memory <NUM> includes a read-only memory ("ROM") <NUM> and a random access memory ("RAM") <NUM>. A basic input/output system ("BIOS") <NUM> containing the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within the computer terminal <NUM>, such as during start-up, is stored in the ROM <NUM>.

The computer terminal <NUM> also includes a hard disk drive <NUM> for reading from and writing to a hard disk (not shown) and an optical disk drive <NUM> for reading from or writing to a removable optical disk <NUM> such as a CD-ROM, compact disk - read/write ("CD/RW"), DVD, or other optical media. The hard disk drive <NUM> and optical disk drive <NUM> are connected to the system bus <NUM> by a hard disk drive interface <NUM> and an optical disk drive interface <NUM>, respectively. Although the exemplary computer terminal <NUM> employs a ROM <NUM>, a RAM <NUM>, a hard disk drive <NUM>, and a removable optical disk <NUM>, it should be appreciated by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that other types of computer readable media also can be used in the exemplary computer terminal <NUM>. For example, the computer readable media can include any apparatus that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport data for use by or in connection with one or more components of the computer terminal <NUM>, including any electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system (or apparatus or device) or propagation medium, such as magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, digital video disks, Bernoulli cartridges, and the like. The drives and their associated computer readable media can provide nonvolatile storage of computer-executable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for the computer terminal <NUM>.

A number of modules can be stored on the ROM <NUM>, RAM <NUM>, hard disk drive <NUM> or optical disk <NUM>, including an operating system <NUM> and various application modules <NUM>-<NUM>. Application modules <NUM>-<NUM> can include routines, sub-routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., which perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. For example, the application module <NUM> may be an inventory application for use in collecting and displaying inventory information in a warehouse.

A user can enter commands and information to the computer terminal <NUM> through the input devices, such as the keypad <NUM> and the user configurable keys <NUM>. These and other input devices are often connected to the processing unit <NUM> through a serial port interface <NUM> that is coupled to the system bus <NUM>, but can be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, game port, or the like. Also connected to the serial port interface <NUM> (or another interface) are the communication ports <NUM>, <NUM>, and the USB port <NUM>. The CAN bus and audio port <NUM> is connected to the processing unit <NUM> through a CAN bus interface <NUM> that is coupled to the system bus <NUM>.

The display <NUM> also can be connected to the system bus <NUM> via an interface, such as a video adapter <NUM>, to receive content for display by the display <NUM>. The exemplary display <NUM> incorporates a touch sensitive screen <NUM> coupled to the processing unit <NUM> by way of a touch screen controller <NUM>. For example, the touch sensitive screen <NUM> can include resistive, capacitive, surface acoustic wave ("SAW"), infrared ("IR"), strain gauge, dispersive signal technology, acoustic pulse recognition, and optical touch sensing technology, as would be readily understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure. The touch screen controller <NUM> can determine the location of a user's touch (e.g., with a finger, stylus, pen, or other object) on or near the touch sensitive screen <NUM>. In addition to the display <NUM>, the computer terminal <NUM> can include other peripheral output devices, such as speakers (not shown).

The computer terminal <NUM> is configured to operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers <NUM>. The remote computer <NUM> can be any network device, such as a personal computer, a server, a client, a router, a network PC, a peer device, or other device. While the remote computer <NUM> typically includes many or all of the elements described above relative to the computer terminal <NUM>, only a memory storage device <NUM> has been illustrated in <FIG> for simplicity. The logical connection depicted in <FIG> includes a wireless local area network ("WLAN") <NUM> that the computer terminal <NUM> communicates with via a Wi-Fi antenna <NUM> (<FIG>). In certain alternative embodiments, the logical connection includes a wireless wide area network ("WWAN"). In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to the computer terminal <NUM>, or portions thereof, can be stored in the remote memory storage device <NUM>.

It will be appreciated that the network connection shown in <FIG> is exemplary and other means of establishing a communications link between the computers can be used. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the computer terminal <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> can have any of several other suitable computer system configurations. For example, the computer terminal <NUM> may not include certain components, in alternative exemplary embodiments.

Referring back to <FIG>, the electrical connector <NUM> includes a multitude of electrically conductive pins <NUM>. In this exemplary embodiment, the pins <NUM> are arranged in five rows of ten pins <NUM> each. However, any number of pins <NUM> and any number of arrangements of pins <NUM> can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. The pins <NUM> are used, along with the conductive surfaces <NUM> of the printed circuit board <NUM>, to provide an electrically conductive path between components of the mounting station <NUM> and components of the computer terminal <NUM>. That is, certain components of the mounting station <NUM> are electrically connected to one or more of the pins <NUM>. For example, the power input port <NUM> is connected to several pins <NUM> to provide power to the computer terminal <NUM>. In addition, each of the communication ports <NUM>-<NUM> are connected to one or more of the pins <NUM> to communicate data between the respective communication port <NUM>-<NUM> (and the device connected to the communication port <NUM>-<NUM>) and the computer terminal <NUM>.

Each pin <NUM> contacts an electrically conductive surface <NUM> of the printed circuit board <NUM> when the computer terminal <NUM> is properly attached to the mounting station <NUM>. Accordingly, the surfaces <NUM> are arranged similar to the pins <NUM> of the electrical connector <NUM>. Each of the surfaces <NUM> are connected to an appropriate component of the computer terminal <NUM> via one or more electrical conductors and/or printed circuit board strip lines. For example, the CAN bus interface <NUM> is connected to one or more of the conductive surfaces <NUM> that correspond to the pins <NUM> connected to the CAN bus and audio port <NUM>. When the computer terminal <NUM> is properly attached to the mounting station <NUM>, these surfaces <NUM> and pins <NUM> provide an electrical connection between the CAN bus interface <NUM> and the CAN bus and audio port <NUM>.

The pins <NUM> are configured to provide a force against the surfaces <NUM> when the computer terminal <NUM> is attached to the mounting station <NUM>. In particular, the pins <NUM> are configured as leaf springs, or a folded piece of metal. By compressing a folded piece of metal, the natural tendency of the metal is to spring open. The spring force is controlled by the thickness, width, and type of metal used. The spring force ensures that the pins <NUM> maintain proper contact with the surfaces <NUM> even in harsh environments, such as heavy vibration. In certain exemplary embodiments, the total force generated by the pins <NUM> against the surfaces <NUM> is approximately <NUM> (<NUM> pounds).

The computer terminal <NUM> and the mounting station <NUM> are configured to support quick attachment and detachment of the computer terminal <NUM> from the mounting station <NUM>, such that when the computer terminal <NUM> is attached to the mounting station <NUM>, the pins <NUM> contact the appropriate surface <NUM>. In particular, the computer terminal <NUM> includes a latch or slot <NUM> fabricated near the top of the rear side of the housing <NUM>. As best seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, the slot <NUM> accepts a flange or tab <NUM> disposed at the top of the mounting station housing <NUM> when the computer terminal <NUM> is attached to the mounting station <NUM>. The tab <NUM> fits into the slot <NUM> such that the electrical connector <NUM> is properly aligned with the printed circuit board <NUM> and thus, each pin <NUM> is properly aligned with the appropriate surface <NUM>. In certain exemplary embodiments, the slot <NUM> has a width that substantially matches the width of the tab <NUM> such that the tab <NUM> fits tightly into the slot <NUM> widthwise. This slot <NUM> and tab <NUM> configuration helps to properly align the electrical connector <NUM> with the printed circuit board <NUM> during attachment of the computer terminal <NUM> to the mounting station <NUM>.

The computer terminal <NUM> also includes a spring loaded locking mechanism <NUM> located near the bottom of the rear side of the housing <NUM>. The exemplary locking mechanism <NUM> includes a member <NUM> having an angled surface <NUM>. During the attachment of the computer terminal <NUM> to the mounting station <NUM>, a bottom ridge <NUM> of the mounting station <NUM> contacts the angled surface <NUM> and presses the member <NUM> downward against a spring <NUM> (<FIG>) until the ridge <NUM> passes the member <NUM>. After the ridge <NUM> passes the member <NUM>, the spring <NUM> pushes the member <NUM> upwards and locks the computer terminal <NUM> in place with the mounting station <NUM>. The locking mechanism <NUM> holds the computer terminal <NUM> tightly with the mounting station <NUM> to ensure proper contact between the pins <NUM> and the surfaces <NUM>.

As best seen in <FIG>, the electrical connector <NUM> is disposed in a recessed area or indentation <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. As best seen in <FIG>, the printed circuit board <NUM> is disposed on a raised surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. When the computer terminal <NUM> is attached to the mounting station <NUM>, the raised surface <NUM> penetrates the indentation <NUM> so that the pins <NUM> properly contact the appropriate surface <NUM>. In certain exemplary embodiments, the upper and side walls of the raised surface <NUM> fit tightly into the upper and side walls of the indentation <NUM> to provide a second alignment mechanism between the electrical connector <NUM> and the printed circuit board <NUM>.

An alignment pin <NUM> is disposed on the rear surface of the computer terminal housing <NUM>. The alignment pin <NUM> engages an alignment aperture <NUM> on the mounting station housing <NUM> and acts as a third alignment mechanism to ensure proper alignment of the electrical connector <NUM> with the printed circuit board <NUM>. That is, when the computer terminal <NUM> is being attached to the mounting station <NUM>, the alignment pin <NUM> penetrates the alignment aperture <NUM> to properly align the electrical connector <NUM> with the printed circuit board <NUM>. In certain alternative exemplary embodiments, the alignment pin <NUM> is disposed on the mounting station housing <NUM> and the alignment aperture <NUM> is disposed on the rear surface of the computer terminal <NUM>.

A user can quickly and easily attach the computer terminal <NUM> to the mounting station <NUM> such that the proper electrical connections are made between the electrical connector and the printed circuit board <NUM>. The user holding the computer terminal <NUM> can first place the slot <NUM> properly over the tab <NUM>. With the tab <NUM> properly disposed in the slot <NUM>, the computer terminal <NUM> can suspend from the mounting station <NUM> without support from the user. The user can then press the bottom of the computer terminal <NUM> against the bottom of the mounting station <NUM> until the locking mechanism <NUM> locks into place to hold the ridge <NUM>. At this point, the computer terminal <NUM> is properly attached to the mounting station <NUM> and the pins <NUM> make proper contact with the appropriate surface <NUM>.

To remove the computer terminal <NUM> from the mounting station <NUM>, a user can actuate a lever <NUM> on the locking mechanism <NUM> that forces the member <NUM> downward and releases the bottom portion of the computer terminal <NUM> from the mounting station <NUM>. At this point, the computer terminal <NUM> is suspended from the mounting station <NUM> via the slot <NUM> and tab <NUM> connection. The computer terminal <NUM> can then be lifted upward to remove the tab <NUM> from the slot <NUM>. Although not shown, in certain exemplary embodiments, the locking mechanism <NUM> can include an aperture for receiving a padlock or other security device. The padlock can be installed on the locking mechanism <NUM> when the computer terminal <NUM> is attached to the mounting station <NUM> to prevent unauthorized users from removing the computer terminal <NUM>.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the power input port <NUM> is electrically coupled to pins <NUM> along the top row of pins <NUM> and the communication ports <NUM>-<NUM> are electrically coupled to pins <NUM> along the rows below the top row. This pin configuration enables the computer terminal <NUM> to receive supply power from the mounting station <NUM> prior to the communication ports <NUM>-<NUM> being connected to the computer terminal <NUM> when the computer terminal <NUM> is being attached to the mounting station <NUM>. Similarly, when the computer terminal <NUM> is being detached from the mounting station <NUM>, the connections between the communication ports <NUM>-<NUM> and the computer terminal <NUM> are disengaged prior to supply power being removed from the computer terminal <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the computer terminal <NUM> includes a battery <NUM>. The battery <NUM> provides backup power to the processing unit <NUM> and other components in the computer terminal <NUM>, for example when external power is not available. For example, the battery <NUM> can provide power to components of the computer terminal <NUM> while the computer terminal <NUM> is being moved from one mounting station <NUM> to another.

<FIG> and <FIG> are exploded views of the mounting station <NUM> of <FIG>, in accordance with certain exemplary embodiments. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the housing <NUM> of the mounting station <NUM> includes a rear cover <NUM> and a front cover <NUM>. The rear cover <NUM> and the front cover <NUM> can be fabricated from any suitable material, including plastic or metal depending on the application. Disposed between the rear cover <NUM> and the front cover <NUM> is a gasket <NUM>. The gasket <NUM> is optional and forms a seal between the rear cover <NUM> and the front cover <NUM> that prevents water and dust from entering the housing <NUM>. The front cover <NUM> is attached to the rear cover <NUM> by screws <NUM> that extend through apertures <NUM> in the front cover <NUM> and engage screw bosses <NUM> of the rear cover <NUM>.

The mounting station <NUM> also includes a printed circuit assembly ("PCA") <NUM> having a power supply <NUM> and a multitude of heat sinks <NUM> disposed thereon. The power supply <NUM> receives supply power from the power input port <NUM> via one or more electrical conductors (and the power switch <NUM> and fuse <NUM>) and provides the appropriate amount of power to the computer terminal <NUM> via the electrical connector <NUM>. In certain alternative embodiments, the power supply <NUM> is included with the computer terminal <NUM> rather than the mounting station <NUM>.

The PCA <NUM> also includes an internal power connector <NUM>. The internal power connector <NUM> connects the power supply <NUM> to an external power connector <NUM> disposed on a second PCA <NUM>. The external power connector <NUM> includes a multitude of "female" plugs for accepting "male" plugs of the internal power connector <NUM>.

The electrical connector <NUM> also is disposed on the PCA <NUM>. At least a portion of the pins <NUM> of the electrical connector <NUM> are electrically coupled to the external connector <NUM> to route power to the computer terminal <NUM> when the computer terminal <NUM> is attached to the mounting station <NUM>. In certain exemplary embodiments, the pins <NUM> are electrically coupled to the external connector <NUM> via strip line conductors on the PCA <NUM>. The PCA <NUM> is attached to the front cover <NUM> via screws <NUM>. An optional gasket <NUM> can be disposed between the PCA <NUM> and the front cover <NUM> to form a seal that prevents water and dust from entering the housing <NUM>. An overlay <NUM> covers a portion of the PCA <NUM> while leaving the pins <NUM> of the electrical connector <NUM> exposed outside the housing <NUM>.

The PCA <NUM> also includes several data connectors <NUM>-<NUM>. Each data connector <NUM>-<NUM> receives a data cable (not shown) from one of the communication ports <NUM>-<NUM>. In particular, the data connector <NUM> is connected to the CAN bus and audio port <NUM> via a data cable; the data connector <NUM> is connected to the serial communication port <NUM> via a data cable; the data connector <NUM> is connected to the serial communication port <NUM> via a data cable; and the data connector <NUM> is connected to the USB port <NUM> via a data cable. Each data connector <NUM>-<NUM> is also electrically coupled to a portion of the pins <NUM> of the electrical connector <NUM>, for example via strip line conductors.

The mounting station <NUM> also includes a power switch retention plate <NUM> coupled to an interior surface of the rear cover <NUM>. The power switch retention plate <NUM> secures the power switch <NUM> to the mounting station <NUM>. Although not shown, electrical wiring is routed from the power supply port <NUM> to the power switch <NUM>. Electrical wiring is also routed from the power switch <NUM> to the fuse <NUM> and from the fuse <NUM> to the power supply <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the computer terminal <NUM> and mounting station <NUM> can include feedback feature for enabling the mounting station supply power when the computer terminal <NUM> is properly attached to the mount station <NUM> only. A power supply enable signal can be routed from the PCA <NUM> to the PCA <NUM> via connectors <NUM>, <NUM>. The power supply enable exits the mounting station <NUM> via one or more of the electrically conductive pins <NUM> of the electrical connector <NUM>. The power supply enable enters the computer terminal <NUM> through one or more of the electrically conductive surfaces <NUM> of the printed circuit board <NUM>. The power supply enable is looped back on the printed circuit board <NUM> and takes a reverse path to the PCA <NUM> where the power supply enable enables the mounting station power supply <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> are exploded views of the computer terminal <NUM> of <FIG>, in accordance with certain exemplary embodiments. Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the computer terminal <NUM> includes the front panel <NUM>, a circuit board <NUM>, and a rear panel <NUM>. The front panel <NUM> attaches to the rear panel <NUM> to provide the housing <NUM> for the computer terminal's internal components, including the circuit board <NUM>.

The front panel <NUM> includes two internal Wi-Fi antennas <NUM>, <NUM> disposed along its perimeter. For example, the Wi-Fi antenna <NUM> may be a primary Wi-Fi antenna for the computer terminal <NUM> and the Wi-Fi antenna <NUM> may be an auxiliary Wi-Fi antenna. When the front panel <NUM> is attached to the rear panel <NUM>, the Wi-Fi antennas <NUM>, <NUM> are disposed inside the housing <NUM> and thus, protected from the environment. The Wi-Fi antennas <NUM>, <NUM> can be logically coupled to the network interface <NUM> (<FIG>).

The circuit board <NUM> can include one or more communication modules. In particular, the circuit board <NUM> includes a wide area network ("WAN") radio module <NUM> for communicating with a WWAN, and two Wi-Fi modules <NUM>, <NUM>. The Wi-Fi antennas <NUM>, <NUM> are logically coupled to the Wi-Fi modules <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. In addition, the Wi-Fi modules <NUM>, <NUM> are logically coupled to the system bus <NUM> (<FIG>) via the network interface <NUM>. The circuit board <NUM> also can include other types of communication modules, such as Bluetooth and Zigbee communication modules. The circuit board <NUM> also includes a compact flash memory card <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of a mounting station <NUM> and a computer terminal <NUM> removably attachable to the mounting station <NUM>, in accordance with certain alternative exemplary embodiments. Referring to <FIG>, the computer terminal <NUM> and the mounting station <NUM> are similar to the computer terminal <NUM> and the mounting station <NUM> of <FIG>, respectively. However, the mechanical and electrical connections between the computer terminal <NUM> and the mounting station <NUM> differ from the computer terminal <NUM> and the mounting station <NUM>. In particular, the exemplary computer terminal <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> having a flange <NUM> that protrudes from the housing's rear surface. The flange <NUM> has an electrical connector <NUM> that extends from a lower surface of the flange to connect to an electrical connector <NUM> of the mounting station <NUM> when the computer terminal <NUM> is properly attached to the mounting station <NUM>. The electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM> route power and data between the mounting station <NUM> and the computer terminal <NUM>, similar to the electrical connector <NUM> and printed circuit board <NUM>.

The mounting station <NUM> and the computer terminal <NUM> include several mechanisms for holding the computer terminal <NUM> with the mounting station <NUM>. A first attachment mechanism includes two detents <NUM>, <NUM> disposed along an upper surface of the mounting station <NUM>. Two protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> are disposed on a lower surface of the flange <NUM>. The detents <NUM>, <NUM> accept the two protrusions <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, when the computer terminal <NUM> is attached to the mounting station <NUM>. This protrusion-detent connection also helps to align the electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM> when the computer terminal <NUM> is being attached to the mounting station <NUM>.

A second attachment mechanism includes a locking mechanism (not shown) disposed along a lower surface of the mounting station and a slot <NUM> disposed along the bottom of the computer terminal <NUM>. The locking mechanism can be similar to or substantially the same as the locking mechanism <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> and discussed above. The locking mechanism of the mounting station <NUM> can receive the slot <NUM> and hold the slot <NUM> within the locking mechanism.

A user can attach the computer terminal <NUM> to the mounting station <NUM> by placing the computer terminal <NUM> on the mounting station <NUM> such that the protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> enter the detents <NUM>, <NUM>. The user can then press the bottom of the computer terminal <NUM> against the bottom of the mounting station <NUM> until the slot <NUM> is locked into place within the locking mechanism. The user can remove the computer terminal <NUM> from the mounting station <NUM> by releasing the slot <NUM> from the locking mechanism (e.g., via a lever <NUM>). The user can then lift the computer terminal <NUM> from the mounting station <NUM>.

<FIG> depict the mounting station <NUM> and a computer terminal <NUM> having a removable front panel <NUM>. In particular, <FIG> and <FIG> are perspective views of the mounting station <NUM> and the computer terminal <NUM> with the computer terminal <NUM> detached from the mounting station and the front panel <NUM> detached from the computer terminal <NUM>; <FIG> is a rear elevation view of the front panel <NUM>; and <FIG> is a front elevation view of the computer terminal <NUM> with the front panel <NUM> removed.

Referring to <FIG>, the removable front panel <NUM> includes the user interface components of the computer terminal <NUM>. In particular, the removable front panel <NUM> includes the touch sensitive screen <NUM>, the user configurable keys <NUM>, and the keypad <NUM>. The touch sensitive screen <NUM>, the user configurable keys <NUM>, and the keypad <NUM> are each electrically coupled to the computer terminal <NUM> via an electrical connector <NUM> (<FIG>) disposed on the rear surface of the front panel <NUM> and an electrical connector <NUM> disposed on the computer terminal <NUM>. That is, when the front panel <NUM> is properly attached to the computer terminal <NUM>, the electrical connector <NUM> engages the electrical connector <NUM> to provide an electrical and logical connection between the components <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the front panel <NUM> and components of the computer terminal <NUM>. In particular, the electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM> provide connections between the keypad <NUM> and the serial port interface <NUM>; between the user configurable keys <NUM> and the serial port interface <NUM>; and between the touch sensitive screen <NUM> and the touch screen controller <NUM>. In addition, the electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM> route power from the computer terminal <NUM> to a defroster <NUM> (<FIG>).

In typical work environments, touch sensitive screens <NUM> and keypads <NUM> have higher failure rates than other components of the computer terminal <NUM>. These high failure rates are often caused by operator misuse. For example, operators may pick at the keys of the keypad <NUM> during idle times and cause the keys to fall from the front panel <NUM>. In addition, operators often use tools, such as screwdrivers, to interact with touch sensitive screen <NUM> and keypads <NUM>. The use of tools rather than fingers can damage the touch sensitive screen <NUM> and the keypad <NUM>. By having the higher failure rate components on a removable front panel <NUM>, when one of these components fail, a user can replace the front panel <NUM> only without taking the entire computer terminal <NUM> out of service. This can lead to reduced downtime and also to reduced maintenance costs.

In addition to maintenance and cost advantages, having a removable front panel <NUM> simplifies rebranding a computer terminal <NUM> as the labels <NUM>-<NUM> are on the removable front panel <NUM>. Yet another advantage of the removable front panel <NUM> is the ability to change the user interface based on operator. For example, <FIG> is an elevation view of a front panel <NUM> of a computer terminal <NUM>, in accordance with certain exemplary embodiments. Referring to <FIG>, the exemplary front panel <NUM> includes the touch sensitive screen <NUM> and the user configurable keys <NUM>. However, the front panel <NUM> does not include a keypad <NUM>. In certain other alternative embodiments, a front panel may include a keypad <NUM> only, without a touch sensitive screen <NUM> or user configurable keys <NUM>. Some operators may be qualified to use front panels having certain user interface components while other operators are not. In such situations, the front panel <NUM> can be replaced based on operator without having to replace the entire computer terminal <NUM>.

Referring back to <FIG>, the computer terminal <NUM> can include an application module <NUM> (or hardware) that can detect the front panel <NUM> and determine what user interface components the front panel <NUM> includes. In certain exemplary embodiments, the keypad PCA <NUM> (<FIG>) includes a microcontroller or other device that detects the front panel configuration. A resistor selection on an input to the microcontroller can be used to select the type of keypad <NUM> included on the front panel <NUM>. In addition, a current sense input of the microcontroller can be used to detect the presence of the defroster <NUM> (<FIG>). The microcontroller can transmit information regarding the front panel <NUM> to the computer terminal <NUM>, for example by way of serial communication.

In the illustrated embodiment, the front panel <NUM> is attached to the computer terminal <NUM> via a multitude of screws <NUM> that extend through apertures <NUM> in the front panel <NUM> and engage screw bosses <NUM> of the computer terminal <NUM>. The front panel <NUM> can be removed from the computer terminal <NUM> by removing the screws <NUM> and pulling the front panel <NUM> away from the computer terminal <NUM>. Other types of hardware and attachment mechanisms can also be used in place of screws <NUM> to attach the front panel <NUM> to the computer terminal <NUM>.

<FIG> is an exploded view of the front panel <NUM> of <FIG>, in accordance with certain exemplary embodiments. Referring to <FIG>, the exemplary front panel <NUM> includes a bracket <NUM> and a front bezel <NUM> that form a housing for components of the front panel <NUM>. The bracket <NUM> is attached to the front bezel <NUM> via a multitude of screws <NUM>. In certain exemplary embodiments, the bracket <NUM> and front bezel <NUM> are made of a plastic material. Disposed between the bracket <NUM> and the front bezel <NUM> are a keypad PCA <NUM>, the touch sensitive screen <NUM>, an optional front panel heater or defroster <NUM>, a touch screen gasket <NUM>, a keypad <NUM> that includes the keypad <NUM> and the user configurable keys <NUM>, and a keypad bezel gasket <NUM>. In certain exemplary embodiments, the keypad <NUM> is an elastomeric keypad.

The keypad PCA <NUM> is electrically coupled to the electrical connector <NUM> such that the keypad PCA <NUM> communicates with the serial port interface <NUM> when the front panel <NUM> is properly installed on the computer terminal <NUM>. The keypad PCA <NUM> includes pads <NUM> for each key of the keypad <NUM> and for each user configurable key <NUM>. The pads <NUM> are operable to detect when a key of the keypad <NUM> or one of the user configurable keys <NUM> are depressed and communicates this detection to the serial port interface <NUM>, and ultimately to the processing unit <NUM>. Similarly, the touch sensitive screen <NUM> is electrically coupled to the electrical connector <NUM> via one or more electrical conductors to communicate with the touch screen controller <NUM>.

The front panel defroster <NUM> is operable to clear condensation from the touch sensitive screen <NUM>. The front panel defroster <NUM> can include a local power source <NUM> such as a battery, or receive power from the computer terminal <NUM> via the electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the computer terminal <NUM> is suitable for use in harsh environments. When the front panel <NUM> is properly attached to the computer terminal <NUM>, the internal components of the computer terminal <NUM> and the front panel <NUM> are protected from water, dust, and other elements of the environment. A seal is formed between the front panel <NUM> and the computer terminal <NUM> by compressing the front panel gasket <NUM> between the two assemblies. The front panel <NUM> includes additional environmental sealing provided by the elastomeric keypad <NUM>. The keypad's elastomer forms a seal to prevent water and dust from entering the key holes on front bezel <NUM>. This seal is achieved by compressing the elastomeric keypad <NUM> between the front bezel <NUM> and the keypad PCA <NUM>. This compression comes from attaching the front bezel <NUM> to the bracket <NUM> by tightening the screws <NUM>.

The overlays <NUM> also act as a sealing material over holes <NUM> in the front bezel <NUM> for light emitting diodes ("LEDs") <NUM>. An adhesive on the overlays <NUM> adheres to the front bezel <NUM> sealing the holes <NUM>. The touch screen gasket <NUM> seals the opening in the front bezel <NUM> for the touch sensitive screen <NUM>. The touch screen gasket <NUM> is compressed between the touch sensitive screen <NUM> and the front bezel <NUM> when the gasket <NUM> is attached to the front bezel <NUM> by the screws <NUM>.

The self contained construction of the front panel <NUM> with a keyed installation (i.e., only attached to the computer terminal <NUM> one way) and no user accessible cables, makes errors in user installation of the front panel <NUM> to the computer terminal <NUM> negligible, therefore maintaining stability of the ruggedized system. In certain exemplary embodiments, the only cables present in the front panel <NUM> are for the touch sensitive screen <NUM> and the optional defroster <NUM>. These cables also can be self contained within the front panel assembly connecting to the PCA <NUM> and may not be accessible to users in certain exemplary embodiments. The act of installing the front panel <NUM> on the computer terminal <NUM> makes the appropriate connections for the user and creates a water and dust proof seal around the connectors <NUM>, <NUM> and electronic components.

The screw bosses and circuit board layout also has been constructed in such a way as to protect the keypad PCA <NUM> and internal electronics from static discharge. Design elements are incorporated that isolate and shunt electronic discharge ("ESD") away from sensitive components integrated within the front panel <NUM>. In certain exemplary embodiments, the externally conductive screws of the front panel <NUM> are isolated with sufficient clearance from all conductive nets of the keypad PCA <NUM>. In certain exemplary embodiments, externally exposed conductive surfaces that make functional connections to the keypad PCA <NUM>, such as the touch sensitive screen <NUM> and the front panel defroster <NUM> have passive protective components that shunt fast rising transitions characteristic of ESD to ground.

One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that the present invention provides a computer mounting system for quickly attaching and detaching a computer terminal to/from a mounting station. The mounting station can be semi-permanently attached to an object, such as on forklift or a non-mobile structure, such as a wall. The mounting station can include a power input port for receiving external power for the computer terminal and one or more communication ports for providing data communication between the computer terminal and another device. The computer terminal includes an electrical connector that engages an electrical connector of the mounting station to receive the supply power and facilitate the data communication between the computer terminal and other device. The computer terminal and/or the mounting station can include a locking mechanism that releasably couples the computer terminal to the mounting station such that the electrical connectors maintain proper contact.

Claim 1:
A mounting system, comprising:
a mounting station (<NUM>) for releasably holding a computer terminal (<NUM>, <NUM>) and providing supply power to the computer terminal (<NUM>, <NUM>), the mounting station (<NUM>) comprising:
a first housing (<NUM>) comprising a first surface, a second surface, and an attachment mechanism for attaching the mounting station (<NUM>) to another object;
a power input port (<NUM>) disposed on the first housing (<NUM>) for receiving supply power for the computer terminal (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a first electrical connector (<NUM>) electrically coupled to the power input port (<NUM>) and comprising a plurality of electrically conductive members (<NUM>) disposed in an indentation (<NUM>) of the second surface;
a tab (<NUM>) extending from the first housing (<NUM>); and
a ridge (<NUM>) disposed along a lower edge of the second surface;
and a computer terminal (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a second housing (<NUM>) comprising a front surface and a rear surface;
at least one attachment mechanism disposed on the second housing (<NUM>) for releasably engaging the ridge (<NUM>);
a front panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) disposed on the front surface and comprising a display (<NUM>);
a processor disposed within the second housing (<NUM>) and logically coupled to the display (<NUM>);
a second electrical connector comprising a plurality of electrically conductive elements (<NUM>) logically coupled to the processor and disposed on a raised area (<NUM>) of the rear surface for engaging the indentation (<NUM>); and
a slot (<NUM>) for receiving the tab (<NUM>),
wherein each of the plurality of electrically conductive members (<NUM>) contacts a corresponding electrical conductive element (<NUM>) when the computer terminal (<NUM>, <NUM>) is attached to the mounting station (<NUM>).