US20040262475A1 - Modular forearm extension - Google Patents
Modular forearm extension Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20040262475A1 US20040262475A1 US10/779,096 US77909604A US2004262475A1 US 20040262475 A1 US20040262475 A1 US 20040262475A1 US 77909604 A US77909604 A US 77909604A US 2004262475 A1 US2004262475 A1 US 2004262475A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- coupling
- forearm extension
- wall
- recesses
- elongated
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/20—Undercarriages with or without wheels
- F16M11/2007—Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment
- F16M11/2014—Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment around a vertical axis
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/20—Undercarriages with or without wheels
- F16M11/2092—Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing depth adjustment, i.e. forward-backward translation of the head relatively to the undercarriage
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/20—Undercarriages with or without wheels
- F16M11/24—Undercarriages with or without wheels changeable in height or length of legs, also for transport only, e.g. by means of tubes screwed into each other
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M2200/00—Details of stands or supports
- F16M2200/04—Balancing means
- F16M2200/044—Balancing means for balancing rotational movement of the undercarriage
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S248/00—Supports
- Y10S248/917—Video display screen support
- Y10S248/919—Adjustably orientable video screen support
Definitions
- This invention relates in general to an apparatus for mounting devices, and more specifically, to a modular forearm extension for mounting electronic peripheral devices in a statically balanced adjustable position.
- FIGS. 1 through 7, including their respective sub-figures, disclose an extension arm for mounting an electronic peripheral device in accordance with Applicant's prior extension arms.
- the main elements of the extension arm are a first endcap 100 , upper channel 200 , lower channel 300 , suspension device 400 , second endcap 500 and forearm extension 600 .
- the extension arm is capable of supporting an electronic device attached to a mounting device, such as a tilter 700 , and also provides an internal cable management system for a cable 900 .
- the first endcap 100 has an endcap shaft 101 that may contain a plurality of concentric circumferential grooves 114 .
- the endcap shaft 101 may be pivotably attached to a rigid support mount (not shown), such as an orifice sized to accept the endcap shaft 101 or a track configured and sized to slidably engage the grooves 114 provided, or both.
- the first endcap 100 contains two pairs of holes 113 (See FIG. 2) therethrough such that pins 102 may pivotally couple the upper channel 200 and lower channel 300 to the first endcap 100 .
- the second endcap 500 contains two pair of holes 513 (See FIG. 2) disposed therethrough such that pins 550 pivotally couple the opposite ends of the upper channel 200 and the lower channel 300 to the second endcap.
- the combination of the upper and lower channels 200 , 300 and the first and second endcaps 100 , 500 form an adjustable parallelogram that permits a device coupled to the forearm extension 600 to be raised and lowered to a desirable height.
- the parallelogram retains its position by employing a suspension device 400 , which is pivotally and adjustably attached to the first endcap 100 and the upper channel 200 , as will be further described below.
- the suspension device 400 is sized so as to have a fixed length until an upward or downward force is exerted at the second endcap 500 that exceeds the suspension device's designed resistance.
- One suitable suspension device 400 is a gas filled piston known for this purpose and commercially available from a variety of manufacturers.
- such a gas filled piston will have an adjustable resistance with a range suitable for use in accordance with the weight of the electronic peripheral device specified.
- the suspension device 400 causes the parallelogram to retain its position when the only force exerted at the second endcap 500 is the weight of the device, but permits the parallelogram to be adjusted when a user pushes the electronic peripheral device up or down.
- a first female coupling 602 couples the second endcap 500 to the forearm extension 600 while a second female coupling 603 couples the opposite end of the forearm extension 600 to the mounting device, such as the tilter 700 .
- the mounting device may be coupled to the electrical peripheral device.
- the electrical peripheral device may in turn have a cable 900 of sufficient length and diameter as to permit its placement through the forearm extension 600 , second endcap 500 , and lower channel 300 , so as not to be visible in those areas.
- FIGS. 3A through 3E illustrate the first endcap 100 , having the endcap shaft 101 disposed on a first end 103 of the first endcap 100 .
- the endcap shaft 101 has an endwall 181 with a hole 104 formed at its first end 103 .
- the first endcap 100 also has a second end 105 with an endwall 151 having a hole 106 disposed therethrough.
- a first end 108 of the threaded rod 107 is inserted into the hole 104 at the base of the endcap shaft 101 .
- a second end 109 of the threaded rod 107 is aligned with the hole 106 and held in place with a clip 110 .
- the clip 110 is fastened to an inner surface of the first endcap 100 by screws 111 .
- the first endcap 100 further includes a sidewall 152 between the endwalls 151 forming a partially enclosed housing 150 .
- the endcap shaft 101 is typically integrally molded to the endwall 151 of the first endcap 100 .
- the entire first endcap 100 (the partially enclosed housing 150 and the endcap shaft 101 ) is molded from zinc.
- Within the partially enclosed housing 150 and integrally molded on the sidewall 152 are a plurality of stops 153 disposed in proximity to the endwalls 151 .
- the trough walls 158 disposed longitudinally along the inner surface of the sidewall 152 between the endwalls 151 so as to define a trough 159 therebetween.
- the stops 153 serve to provide limits of upward or downward movement of the upper channel 200 and lower channel 300 when the ends of the upper channel 200 and lower channel 300 , respectively, meet the stops 153 when one moves the electronic peripheral device in extended or contracted positions.
- the trough 159 disposed between the trough walls 158 allows a clevis 120 to be moved therein. As discussed in more detail later, the clevis provides connection and adjustment means for one end of the suspension device 400 .
- FIG. 3C illustrates a variation of the first endcap 100 in accordance with the preferred embodiment, wherein shelves 160 define co-planar faces separated by a groove 161 .
- the shelves 160 have a connection means, such as self-tapping screw holes 162 disposed therein.
- the co-planar faces of the shelves 160 are configured to engage a retainer clip 163 , which is fastened in place, for example, by a pair of screws 164 .
- the groove 161 defines a space for accepting one end 108 of the threaded rod 107 .
- FIG. 3D illustrates the threaded rod 107 , the second end 109 of which has a circular cross-section within which is axially disposed a shaped opening 165 , for example, a hex-shaped opening for accepting a shaped key (not shown), such as a hex-shaped key.
- the cross-sectional diameter of the second end 109 is smaller than a cross-sectional diameter of the hole 106 , so as to be inserted therein.
- Adjacent the second end 109 is a shoulder 166 .
- the shoulder 166 has a circular cross-section of a diameter larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the hole 106 . Thus, the shoulder 166 abuts an inner surface of the endwall 151 and retains the second end 109 within the hole 106 .
- the first end 108 of the threaded rod 107 is disposed in the groove 161 located between the shelves 160 of the first endcap 100 (See FIG. 3B) or the hole 104 of the endcap shaft 101 (See FIG. 3A).
- the first end 108 of the threaded rod 107 has a circular cross-section having a diameter that is smaller than the size of the groove 161 or the hole 104 , such that the first end 108 is supported between the shelves 160 but is free to rotate therein.
- a threaded section 167 Between the first end 108 and the second end 109 of the threaded rod 107 is a threaded section 167 . Threadably mounted on the threaded section 167 is the clevis 120 .
- the clevis 120 as illustrated in FIG. 3E, has a tapped hole 121 formed therein for receiving the threaded rod 107 .
- the clevis 120 also has a pair of fastening members 123 at a first end 122 to which are fastened a first end of the suspension device 400 .
- the second end 124 of the clevis is configured so as to slidably engage the trough 159 .
- the second end 109 of the threaded rod 107 can be engaged by a shaped key to rotate the threaded rod 107 around its axial centerline.
- the clevis 120 travels along the length of the threaded rod 107 in a direction corresponding to the direction which the shaped key is turned. This movement of the clevis 120 adjusts the length of the suspension device 400 thereby altering its resistance.
- FIGS. 4A through 4D illustrate several views of the upper channel 200 according to the prior art.
- the upper channel 200 includes a U-shaped body 201 and integrally cast rollers 202 disposed at opposite ends of the U-shaped body 201 .
- the rollers 202 can also be separately constructed and subsequently welded onto the ends of the U-shaped body 201 as disclosed in Applicant's aforementioned patent applications.
- the U-shaped body 201 comprises a channel bottom 203 from which extend two channel sidewalls 204 .
- the channel bottom 203 and the sidewalls 204 are typically stamped from heavy gauge steel with the rollers 202 being welded thereto.
- the channel bottom 203 , the sidewalls 204 and the rollers 202 of the upper channel 200 are typically integrally cast from zinc, giving the upper channel a lesser weight and degree of rigidity more appropriate for the lighter weight application.
- Cast molded upper channels 200 permit the angle between the channel bottom 203 and the channel sidewalls 204 to be exactly the same for each manufactured upper channel 200 . Moreover, cast molding permits the sidewalls 204 to be tapered. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 ( c ) and 4 ( d ), both an outer surface and an inner surface of the sidewalls 204 may taper in, for example, by approximately 1 degree. The taper allows for clearance between the upper and lower channels 200 , 300 when the upper and lower channels 200 , 300 are brought together during usage. That is, the inner surface of the sidewalls 204 being displaced by 1 degree means that there is additional clearance for the lower channel 300 to fit there within. The addition clearance ensures that the upper channel 200 and lower channel 300 will not scrape together during usage.
- the rollers 202 have a hole 205 therethrough (either cast in or subsequently drilled) for receiving a connection mechanism, such as pins 102 , 550 .
- the channel bottom 203 includes an integrally cast threaded hole configured and sized to receive a threaded end ball stud 207 .
- the ball stud is configured and sized to receive a second end of the suspension device 400 .
- FIGS. 5A through 5E illustrate several views of the lower channel according to the prior art.
- the lower channel 300 includes a U-shaped body 301 and integrally cast rollers 302 disposed at opposite ends of the U-shaped body 301 .
- the U-shaped body of the lower channel 300 includes a channel bottom 303 from which extend two channel sidewalls 304 .
- the channel bottom 303 and the sidewalls 304 of the lower channel 300 are typically stamped from heavy gauge steel, the rollers 302 being welded thereto.
- the channel bottom 303 , the sidewalls 304 and the rollers 302 of the lower channel 300 are typically integrally cast from zinc, giving the lower channel a lesser weight and degree of rigidity more appropriate for the lighter weight application.
- the rollers 302 have a hole 305 therethrough (either cast or subsequently drilled) for receiving a connection mechanism, such as the pins 102 , 550 .
- the channel bottom 303 additionally includes a cable channel 306 running longitudinally there along.
- a first end 307 of the cable channel 306 starts near the end of the channel bottom 303 that pivotably connects to the first endcap 100 .
- the cable channel 306 then runs along the entire length of the channel bottom 303 to the end of the channel bottom that pivotably connects to the second endcap 500 .
- the second end 308 of the cable channel 306 provides an opening between the rollers 302 .
- the first end 307 may be, for example, rounded to improve the rigidity of the lower channel 300 .
- the cable channel 306 is configured to receive a cable cover 325 (illustrated in FIG. 5E) which is configured to removably fit within the cable channel.
- cables 900 of the mounted device may be substantially retained within the lower channel 300 so as to hide them from view and protect them from harm.
- the cable channel 306 and the cable cover 325 enable cables to be accessed when desired, while securing them within the lower channel 300 .
- the sidewalls 304 of the lower channel 300 are also tapered.
- an outer surface of the sidewalls 304 may be tapered approximately M degree while an inner surface may be tapered approximately 1 degree.
- the taper is not limited to a particular angle, and that the taper of the inner surface and the outer surface may be the same. The taper is possible because the lower channel 300 is typically cast molded. As noted above with respect to the upper channel 200 , the taper provides more clearance between the upper channel 200 and the lower channel 300 so as to reduce or eliminate the chance of the upper and the lower channels 200 , 300 scraping.
- the cable cover 325 includes a top cover 326 with two sidewalls 327 extending therefrom. A far end of each sidewall 327 has a catch 328 formed thereon so as to engage with the cable channel 306 .
- the cable cover 325 is molded from plastic and is sufficiently flexible so that the stops 328 may be engaged and disengaged from the cable channel 306 as necessary. The cover is not, however, so flexible that the stops 328 naturally flex such that the cable cover 325 fails to engage with the cable channel 306 .
- the second endcap 500 includes a partially enclosed housing 501 and a shaft assembly 502 .
- the partially enclosed housing 501 has a first endwall 503 and a second endwall 504 oppositely disposed from each other and fixedly connected by a sidewall 505 .
- the sidewall 505 extends partially around the partially enclosed housing 501 so as to permit manipulation of components, such as cables, which may be contained there within.
- the first endwall 503 has a hole 506 disposed therethrough and threaded holes 507 disposed therein that are in communication with the hole 506 .
- the diameter of the hole 506 is large enough to allow a plug end of a cable to fit therethrough.
- Disposed within the threaded holes 507 are set screws 508 .
- the shaft assembly 502 typically includes two symmetrical endcap adapters 509 which when assembled provide the boundaries for a hollow shaft 510 .
- the endcap adapters 509 have a mounting end 511 and a shaft end 512 that is thinner than the mounting end 511 .
- the mounting ends 511 of both of the endcap adapters 509 are inserted into the hole 506 and are coupled together and to the partially enclosed housing 501 , to form the second endcap 500 , by tightening the set screws 508 .
- the upper and the lower channels 200 , 300 and the first and the second endcaps 100 , 500 are configured so as to form an adjustable parallelogram.
- the shaft 101 of the first endcap 100 and the hollow shaft 510 of the second endcap 500 point in opposite directions.
- the shaft 101 of the first endcap 100 extends vertically downward while the hollow shaft 510 of the second endcap 500 extends vertically upward.
- the shape of the parallelogram is retained by the suspension device 400 .
- the first end of the suspension device 400 is adjustably mounted to the clevis 120 within the first endcap 100 and the second end is attached to the ball stud 207 mounted within the upper channel 200 .
- the suspension device 400 is sized so as to have a fixed length until an upward or downward force is exerted at the second endcap 500 that exceeds the suspension device's designed resistance.
- the suspension device 400 retains the parallelogram shape when the only force exerted at the second endcap 500 is the weight of the electronic peripheral device.
- the suspension device 400 permits the parallelogram shape to be adjusted when a user pushes the electronic peripheral device coupled to the forearm extension 600 up or down.
- the forearm extension of the prior art includes a body 601 having a first female coupling 602 located on a first end and a second female coupling 603 located on a second end.
- the first female coupling 601 has an inner diameter 604 that is sized to rotatably engage the hollow shaft 510 of the second endcap 500 .
- the first female coupling 602 is also configured to receive a cable through the hollow shaft 510 . That is, the first female coupling 602 has a cable slot 605 formed therein, for example by milling the cable slot 605 into the first female coupling 602 , or by casting the first female coupling 602 with the cable slot 605 integrally formed therein.
- the first female coupling 602 generally has a set screw 606 formed within a wall 607 thereof.
- the set screw 606 can be tightened to prevent the first female coupling 602 from rotating about the hollow shaft 510 .
- the first female coupling 602 has a plurality of voids 608 formed in the wall 607 , which saves on material costs and weight and permits the forearm extension 600 , when cast, to be cooled more quickly.
- a bushing 609 (See FIG. 2) is preferably used to engage the first female coupling 602 and the hollow shaft 510 . That is, the bushing 609 is placed over the hollow shaft 510 and within the first female coupling 602 .
- the bushing 609 is preferably made of a smooth material, such as plastic, in order to reduce friction and prevent metal to metal contact.
- the bushing 609 also has a cable slot 610 formed therein. The cable slots 605 , 610 are aligned so that a cable can pass therethrough.
- the body 601 preferably has an inverted U-shape with a topwall 613 and two sidewalls 614 so that a cable can be hidden therein.
- a cable holder 615 (See FIG. 2).
- the cable holder 615 secures a cable within the U-shaped body so that it can be hidden from view as it travels the length of the forearm extension 600 .
- the second female coupling 603 is for attachment to a device mounting, such as a tilter 700 described in Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 6,505,988 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- the second female coupling 603 has an inner diameter 616 that is sized to rotatably engage a shaft of the device mount.
- a bushing 621 (See FIG. 2), preferably made of a smooth material such as plastic, is placed over the shaft and within the second female coupling 603 .
- the second female coupling 603 preferably has a set screw 617 formed within a wall 618 of the second female coupling 603 .
- the second female coupling 603 also has a plurality of voids 619 formed in the wall 618 .
- the forearm extension 600 illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B has the topwall 620 flush with an upper edge of the female couplings 602 , 603 . Since the first female coupling 602 is larger than the second female coupling 603 , the center of the first female coupling 602 is not aligned with the center of the second female coupling 603 or an axial centerline of the body 601 . It should be noted that an alternative embodiment is to have the center of the female couplings 602 , 603 and the axial centerline 621 of the body 601 all aligned, so that the topwall 620 would not be aligned with an upper edge of the first female coupling 602 .
- an electronic device such as a flat-screen monitor is attached to a device mounting, such as tilter which is rotatably coupled to the second female coupling 603 .
- a cable such as a power cable, proceeds from the electronic peripheral device to the underside of the body 601 of the forearm extension 600 .
- the cable is held in place within the body 601 by the cable holder 615 .
- the cable proceeds from the body through the cable slots 605 , 610 , in the bushing 609 and the first female coupling 602 .
- the cable then proceeds through the hollow shaft 510 of the second endcap 500 .
- the cable exits the second endcap 500 through the open end of the partially enclosed housing 501 .
- the cable proceeds down the length of the lower channel 300 and exits at the first end 307 of the cable channel 306 , while being hidden from view and substantially protected by the cable cover 325 .
- the cable is inserted into the lower channel 300 as portions of the lower channel 300 and upper channel 200 are being assembled. That is, the cable is placed under the body 601 of the forearm extension 600 and is held in place by the cable holder 615 . The cable is then passed through the cable slots 605 , 610 . The cable including the plug is then fed through the hole 506 in the second endcap 500 . The second endcap 500 is now assembled by inserting the mounting end 511 of each endcap adapter 509 into the hole 506 , thus surrounding the cable. The endcap adapters 509 are held together and within the hole 506 by tightening the set screws 508 . The hollow shaft 510 is then placed within the first female coupling 602 . The cable is placed within the lower channel 300 , prior to the lower channel 300 and the second endcap being secured together. This ensures that the cable is above the roller 302 and is contained within the hollow bar formed by the upper channel 200 and the lower channel 300 .
- a bumper 650 may be placed on the second endwall 504 of the second endcap 500 and a plug 651 is generally placed over the first female coupling 602 .
- a washer 652 is typically placed over the two endcap adapters 509 to help secure them together.
- a forearm extension comprising an elongated U-shaped body having a hollow interior, the body including first and second ends, an elongated stiffening member fixedly secured within the interior of the body, a first coupling having an outer wall fixedly attached to the first end of the body, and a second coupling having an outer wall fixedly attached to the second end of the body, the first and second couplings each including a bore having a longitudinal centerline parallel to each other.
- a forearm extension for mounting an electronic device thereto, the forearm extension comprising an elongated U-shaped body having a hollow interior, the body including first and second ends; an elongated stiffening member fixedly secured within the interior of the body; a first coupling including an outer wall having a pair of first recesses, the first end of the body fixedly attached to the first coupling within the first recesses; and a second coupling including an outer wall having a pair of second recesses, the second end of the body fixedly attached to the second coupling within the second recesses; the first coupling having a bore therein in communication with the interior of the body through an opening provided within the outer wall of the first coupling; and the second coupling having a bore therein adapted for mounting an electronic device thereto.
- a method of making a forearm extension comprising forming an elongated hollow body having first and second ends and a cavity extending therebetween; fixedly securing a stiffening member to the body within the cavity; fixedly attaching the first end of the body to a first coupling; and fixedly attaching the second end of the body to a second coupling; the first coupling including a first pair of recesses receiving the first end of the body and the second coupling including a second pair of recesses receiving the second end of the body.
- a method of making a forearm extension having a predetermined length comprising forming a U-shaped elongated hollow body of indefinite length relative to the length of the forearm extension, the elongated hollow body having a cavity extending therethrough; severing a portion of the elongated hollow body to provide a predetermined length hollow body; fixedly securing a stiffening member having first and second ends within the cavity of the predetermined length hollow body; providing a first coupling having an outer wall and a first pair of spaced apart recesses; fixedly attaching one end of the elongated hollow member to the first coupling within the first pair of recesses; providing a second coupling having an outer wall and a second pair of spaced apart recesses; and fixedly attaching the other end of the elongated hollow body to the second coupling within the second pair of recesses.
- FIG. 1 is an assembly drawing in front elevation of an extension arm for mounting a computer monitor in accordance with the prior art
- FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly drawing in perspective view of the extension arm in accordance with the prior art
- FIGS. 3A through 3E illustrate various views of the first endcap and the components forming the first endcap in accordance with the prior art
- FIGS. 4A through 4D illustrate various views of the upper arm extension in accordance with the prior art
- FIGS. 5A through 5E depict various views of the lower arm extension in accordance with the prior art
- FIGS. 6A through 6I illustrate various views of the second endcap and the components forming the second endcap in accordance with the prior art
- FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate various views of the forearm extension in accordance with the prior art
- FIGS. 8A through 8G illustrate various views of the upper arm extension and components therefore forming the upper arm extension constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
- FIGS. 9A through 9F illustrate various views of the lower arm extension and components therefore forming the lower arm extension constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
- FIGS. 10A through 10F illustrate various views of the forearm extension and components therefore forming the forearm extension in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 11 is an assembled view of an extension arm constructed in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a module forearm extension constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an elongated body forming one component of the forearm extension
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the elongated body configured for use in the forearm extension as shown in FIG. 12;
- FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an elongated stiffening member forming one component of the forearm extension
- FIG. 16 is a perspective assembled view of the forearm extension body and stiffening member
- FIGS. 17 and 18 are perspective views of a first coupling forming a component of the forearm extension
- FIGS. 19 and 20 are perspective views of a second coupling forming a component of the forearm extension
- FIGS. 21 is a perspective view of an elongated forearm extension cover forming a component of the forearm extension.
- FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a coupling cover forming a component of the forearm extension.
- the upper arm extension 250 is constructed of an upper channel exterior member 253 , a pair of roller units 251 and a reinforcing bar 252 .
- the upper arm extension 250 can be constructed from a variety of metals, such as extruded aluminum which has the beneficial properties of both strength and light weight.
- the upper channel exterior member 253 is in the nature of a U-shaped member of indeterminate length.
- the upper channel exterior member 253 is capable of being cut from an indeterminate length to a user specified size and will therefore include a first end 262 and a second end 263 . Accordingly, multiple upper channel exterior members 253 can be cut from a single extruded length of stock material.
- the upper channel exterior fitting 253 includes two spaced apart sidewalls 255 and a transversally arranged top wall 254 therebetween, thus forming the U-shaped member.
- the sidewalls 255 may be tapered as previously described.
- Located on the interior surface of each sidewall 255 at positions equidistant below the top wall 254 are two projecting shelves 256 .
- the shelves 256 generally extend between the first and second ends 262 , 263 of the upper channel exterior member 253 , such that they run through the entire length of the upper channel 250 .
- the shelves 256 are situated such that an open cavity 259 is formed between the top wall 254 , sidewalls 255 and the shelves.
- the cavity 259 is defined by cavity walls 261 and a cavity roof 260 .
- a notch such as a circular region 264 can be cut out of the sidewalls 255 where it joins with topwall 254 to accommodate a portion of the roller units 251 in assembled relationship, as to be described hereinafter.
- a reinforcing bar 252 of preferably tubular construction is slideably disposed or force fit within the cavity 259 along the length of the upper channel exterior member 253 between the first and second ends, 262 , 263 .
- the bar is sized in height and width such that its bottom surface 257 rests upon the shelves 256 while the top surface 258 generally contacts the cavity roof 260 and its side surfaces 263 generally contact the cavity walls 261 forming a rigid structure.
- the bar 252 is formed with a cavity 274 extending therethrough.
- the reinforcing bar 252 is formed from extruded steel or other suitable material to enhance and strengthen the upper channel 250 and is cut to a length dependent on, and generally equal to, the final length of the upper channel exterior member 253 .
- the holes 265 are preferably located near both of the first and second ends 262 , 263 of the upper channel 250 , and as illustrated, are typically elongated holes, although other shapes are contemplated.
- Each roller unit 251 includes a rectangular member 266 of solid or tubular construction from extruded aluminum having a first end 269 and a second end 270 , and a cylindrical member 267 also formed from aluminum. At the second end 270 of each rectangular member 266 , an arcuate or semi-circular region 268 may be formed.
- the cylindrical member 267 is welded transversally to a respective rectangular member 266 along the length of the top wall 271 , bottom wall 272 , and sidewalls 273 of the rectangular member.
- Each cylindrical member 267 has a cast or formed hole 205 extending therethrough such that it may be pivotally attached via pins 102 , 550 to the first endcap 100 or second endcap 500 .
- the roller unit 251 may also be formed as an integral one piece casting or machining and the like.
- the rectangular member 266 is sized and shaped such that it may be snugly disposed longitudinally within the cavity 274 of the reinforcing bar 252 .
- the holes 265 , 275 will have at least a common overlying portion in alignment with each other.
- the holes 265 , 275 may have the same size and shape.
- These overlying holes 265 , 275 enable the reinforcing bar 252 and each roller unit 251 to be fixed in assembled position.
- the reinforcing bar is made of steel while the roller units 251 and upper channel 250 are made of aluminum. This material divergence prevents each element from being directly welded together.
- aluminum material may be welded to the roof 260 of the top wall 254 of the upper channel exterior member 253 by filling the holes 265 , 270 to form a rigid connection plug 280 as shown in FIG. 8G.
- a pre-formed aluminum plug (not shown) suitably sized to fill the space within the two elongated holes 265 , 275 may be inserted and bonded to the upper channel exterior member 253 .
- the plug serves to lock the components together in assembled relationship, such that they may no longer slide relative to one another.
- the roller units 251 , reinforcing bar 252 and upper channel exterior member 253 may be chemically bonded, for example, with epoxy adhesive. Additionally, these components may be mechanically connected with, for example, screws or rivets or the like.
- each roller unit 251 is engaged with the upper channel's respective first end 262 and second end 263 .
- the cylindrical member 267 of each roller unit 251 abuts the upper channel.
- the abutment may either be directly against the first end 262 and second end 263 or may be within the notches, such as the circular region 264 expressly provided for this purpose.
- FIG. 8B depicts a first end 262 with the standard abutment against a right angle corner and a second end 263 with the notched semi-circular region 264 , See also FIG. 8A. It is therefore contemplated that the ends of the reinforcing bar 252 will be similarly notched with a corresponding circular region to receive the cylindrical member 267 .
- a tapped hole 277 Disposed adjacent the second end 263 of the upper channel 250 is a tapped hole 277 within the reinforcing member 252 .
- the tapped hole is sized to accept a threaded end ball stud 278 .
- the ball stud is configured and sized and threaded to receive the second end of the suspension device 400 , as previously described in the prior art.
- FIGS. 9A through 9F illustrate a lower arm extension 350 including a lower channel exterior member 363 , a pair of roller units 351 and a reinforcing bar 352 constructed in a like manner as the upper arm extension 250 detailed above.
- each sidewall 255 , 355 of the upper and lower channel 250 , 350 may be slightly tapered inwardly, for example, by approximately 1 ⁇ 2 to 1 degree.
- the taper allows more clearance between the upper and lower channels 250 , 350 when the upper and lower channels 250 , 350 are brought together during usage. That is, the inner surface of the sidewalls 276 of the upper channel exterior member 253 being tapered by approximately 1 ⁇ 2 to 1 degree means that there is additional clearance for the exterior surface 376 of the lower channel exterior member 353 , which can be similarly tapered, to fit there within. The addition clearance ensures that the upper channel 250 and lower channel 350 will not scrape together during usage.
- the forearm extension 650 includes a first female coupling 651 , elongated body 652 and second female coupling 653 , each formed from aluminum or similar material.
- the body 652 is formed from extruded metal of indeterminate length, preferably aluminum, and may be cut or formed to a user specified length to achieve a forearm extension 650 of the required length when connected to the first female coupling 651 and the second female coupling 653 .
- the first and second female couplings 651 , 653 may be formed by casting machining and the like.
- the first female coupling 651 includes a coupling end 654 and a shaft end 655 .
- the coupling end 654 has a through bore 800 having an inner diameter 656 that is sized to rotatably engage the hollow shaft 510 of the second endcap 500 .
- the first female coupling 651 is also configured to receive a cable through the hollow shaft 510 . That is, the first female coupling 651 has a cable slot 657 formed therein during casting which communicates with the interior of the elongated body 652 .
- the first female coupling 651 generally has a threaded hole 658 to receive a set screw (not shown) formed within a wall 659 thereof.
- the set screw can be tightened to prevent the first female coupling 651 from rotating about the hollow shaft 510 .
- a bushing 609 (See FIG. 2) is preferably used to engage the first female coupling 651 and the hollow shaft 510 . That is, the bushing 609 is placed over the hollow shaft 510 and within the first female coupling 651 .
- the bushing 609 is preferably made of a smooth material, such as plastic, in order to reduce friction and prevent metal to metal contact. As illustrated in FIG. 6H, the bushing 609 also has a cable slot 610 formed therein.
- the cable slots 605 , 610 are aligned so that a cable can pass therethrough.
- the set screw 658 When the set screw 658 is tightened it causes the bushing 609 to flex inward and frictionally engage the hollow shaft 510 and thus prevent the forearm extension 650 from rotating about the hollow shaft 510 .
- the hollow shaft 510 and the first female coupling 651 are held together by utilizing a screw 611 and a washer 612 (See FIG. 2) threadably engaging a portion of the second endcap 500 .
- the shaft end 655 of the first female coupling 651 is constructed in a U-shaped configuration with a bottom wall 670 and two spaced apart sidewalls 671 . Each sidewall 671 extends outwardly from the coupling end 654 of the first female coupling 651 .
- a void 674 Formed within the bottom wall is a void 674 , such as an elongated hole.
- the shaft end 655 of the first female coupling 651 is sized and shaped such that it may be slideably engaged within the body 652 of the forearm extension 650 .
- the body is configured as a lipped U-shaped member forming a hollow interior which is slightly larger than the shaft end 655 of the first female coupling 651 to accept same.
- the body 652 as shown in FIG. 10C includes a bottom wall 675 , spaced apart sidewalls 676 and a partially enclosed top wall 677 formed by inwardly extending lips.
- the body 652 and the first female coupling 651 are joined together such that the bottom wall 675 of the body slideably engages the bottom wall 670 of the shaft end 655 of the first female coupling; the inner surface of the sidewalls 676 of the body slideably engage the outer surfaces of the sidewalls 671 of the shaft end 655 of the first female coupling 651 ; and, the sidewall top surface 673 of the shaft end 655 of the first female coupling 651 slideably engages undersurface of the lips 677 of the body 652 .
- the shaft end 655 is permitted to penetrate the body 652 until stops 672 disposed at the junction of the coupling end 654 and the shaft end 655 prevent further movement.
- the stops 672 are sized and positioned such that the void 674 of the shaft end 655 will align over the bottom wall 675 of the body 652 .
- the first female coupling may be rigidly attached to the body 652 using similar means as that described for the upper channel exterior fittings 253 connection with the perspective roller units 251 , including by means of a welded plug, preformed plug, chemical bonding, screw or rivet.
- the aforementioned engagement form an essentially rigid structure.
- the second female coupling 653 includes a shaft end 680 and a coupling end 681 .
- the coupling end 681 comprises two spaced apart sidewalls 682 and a circular endwall 683 directly opposite the shaft end 680 .
- Within the coupling end 681 is a through bore 699 having an inner diameter 684 for rotatably engaging a shaft of the tilter or similar device mount (not shown).
- a bushing 617 (See FIG. 2), preferably made of a smooth material such as plastic, is placed over the shaft and within the inner diameter 684 of the second female coupling 653 .
- the second female coupling 653 preferably has a threaded hole to accept a set screw 685 formed within a wall 686 created by the inner diameter 684 and the semi-circular endwall 683 .
- a set screw 685 When the set screw 685 is tightened it causes the bushing 617 to flex inward and frictionally engage the shaft and thus prevent the device mount from rotating around the second female coupling 653 .
- a cable opening 684 Formed within the coupling end 681 of the second female coupling 653 is a cable opening 684 .
- the opening is suitably sized such that the device cable and plug may be placed therethrough. Following placement through the cable opening, the cable and plug may then be placed through the cable slot 685 , the body 652 , and the first female coupling 651 , as previously described.
- the shaft end 680 of the second female coupling 653 is shaped and dimensioned such that it may be slideably engaged within the opposite end of the body 652 of the forearm extension 650 as the first female coupling 651 .
- the shaft end 680 of the second female coupling 653 is cast in a U-shaped configuration with a bottom wall 681 and two spaced apart sidewalls 682 .
- Each sidewall 682 extends outwardly from a stop 683 formed with the coupling end 681 of the second female coupling 653 .
- a void 687 is utilized in a similar manner as that of the first female coupling void 674 to form an essentially rigid structure with the body 652 .
- a cable cover 692 is typically affixed upon the first female coupling 651 , body 652 , and second female coupling 653 .
- the cover is molded from plastic and contains a top cover 695 with a pair of sidewalls extending therefrom.
- the cable cover is shaped and sized such that the top cover 695 rests upon the first female coupling, body 652 and second female coupling 653 .
- the cover is circular in shape.
- the extending sidewalls 693 are semi-circular in shape and extend into the inner diameter 656 .
- the sidewalls 693 are suitably flexible such that stops 694 attached thereto engage the inner diameter 656 with sufficient pressure to prevent the cover from being released without an intent to do so.
- the portion of the cover 692 affixed to the shaft end 655 of the first female coupling 651 , the body 652 , and the second female coupling 653 is rectangular corresponding to the shape of those elements. This portion of the cable cover 692 may be cut to a corresponding length to that of the specified forearm extension 600 .
- FIG. 12 there is shown a modular forearm extension constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention and generally designated by reference numeral 700 .
- the forearm extension 700 includes an elongated main body 702 , a first coupling 704 fixedly attached to one end of the body, a second coupling 706 fixedly attached to the other end of the body, and optionally, an elongated stiffening member 708 (See FIG. 15), an elongated body cover 710 and a coupling cover 712 .
- the forearm extension 700 may also include a polymer bushing 714 received within the second coupling 706 .
- the body 702 is initially formed from an elongated U-shaped member 716 of undefined length.
- the U-shaped member 716 includes a bottom wall 718 and a pair of spaced apart sidewalls 720 , 722 .
- the elongated member 716 is generally a stock component of the forearm extension which is cut to size depending upon the required length of the forearm extension. As such, the U-shaped member 716 may be extruded or otherwise formed into a U-shape of indefinite length.
- the members 716 may be stocked in various widths between the sidewalls 720 , 722 , as well as various thickness depending upon the application of the forearm extension and the weight to be supported such as an electronic device or other object.
- the member 716 is severed into the predetermined length as desired for the particular forearm extension to be assembled.
- the ends of the member 716 are shaped or otherwise conformed to that required to mate with a corresponding one of the first and second couplings 704 , 706 .
- end 724 of the body 702 is formed with a circular shaped bottom wall end 726 .
- the ends of the sidewalls 720 , 722 extend beyond the extent of the bottom wall end 726 forming sidewall projection 728 , 730 of different length.
- the other end 732 of the body 702 is also formed with a circular shaped bottom wall end 734 from which there extends spaced apart sidewall projections 736 , 737 .
- the ends 724 , 732 of the body 702 may be formed by various manufacturing techniques such as machining, grinding and the like.
- the ends 724 , 732 are shaped to abut against its corresponding coupling 704 , 706 so as to be fixedly attached thereto as to be described hereinafter.
- the bottom wall 718 may be provided with an enlarged opening 738 adapted to allow cables and/or connectors to pass therethrough in use of the forearm extension 700 .
- an elongated U-shaped stiffening member 740 is cut from an indeterminate length.
- the materials of construction, thickness and length of the stiffening member 740 may be determined based on the design and load criteria of the forearm extension.
- the stiffening member 740 has been described as a U-shaped member, it is to be understood that other shapes that provide structural rigidity may also be employed, for example, I-beam, rectangular and the like.
- the stiffening member 740 is positioned within the interior of the body 702 between the sidewalls 720 , 722 facing downwardly, typically supported on the bottom wall 718 .
- the stiffening member 740 is fixedly secured to the body 702 such as by weld spots 742 between the stiffening member and the adjacent sidewalls 720 , 722 . It is to be understood that any other technique for fixedly securing the stiffening member 740 to the interior of the body 702 may be employed to form a rigid structure.
- the first coupling 704 is in the nature of a cylindrical body having a through bore 744 .
- the outer wall 746 forming the first coupling 704 is provided with a pair of spaced apart recesses 748 , 750 .
- the recesses 748 , 750 are formed in parallel spaced apart planes adapted to respectively receive one of the sidewall projections 728 , 730 formed at the end 724 of the body 702 . This is partially shown in FIG. 12 wherein sidewall projection 728 is received within recess 748 .
- the recesses 748 , 750 capture and support the sidewall projection 728 , 730 which facilitates alignment and the subsequent attachment of the body 702 to the first coupling 704 .
- the sidewalls 720 , 722 are welded to the outer wall 746 of the first coupling 704 from the interior of the body 702 such as by forming weld fillets.
- the recesses 748 , 750 are not symmetrical or of identical shape. Rather, the recesses 748 , 750 are offset from one another and are of a different size so as to accommodate the different length of the sidewall projection 728 , 730 , which may be of substantially the same length if desired. As a result, the center of the first coupling 704 is offset from the longitudinal axis of the body 702 forming the forearm extension 700 , See FIG. 12.
- the outer wall 746 is optionally provided with an opening 752 providing communication between the interior of the body 702 and bore 744 within the first coupling 704 .
- the outer wall 746 may additionally be provided with a threaded hole 754 for receiving a set screw (not shown).
- the second coupling 706 is formed from a cylindrical body having an outer wall 765 and a through bore 758 .
- the outer wall 756 is provided with a pair of spaced apart recesses 760 , 762 arranged in parallel spaced apart planes.
- the recesses 760 , 762 are adapted to receive the sidewall projections 736 , 737 to be fixedly attached thereto.
- the sidewall projection 736 , 737 which are of the same length, may be welded to the outer wall 756 within the interior of the body 702 via weld fillets and the like.
- the recesses 760 , 762 are symmetrical to accommodate projections 736 , 737 of equal length such that the center line of the body 702 is aligned with the center axis of the second coupling 706 as shown in FIG. 12.
- the projections 736 , 737 may be of different lengths if desired.
- the second coupling 706 may optionally include a threaded hole 764 for receipt of a set screw (not shown).
- the forearm extension 700 is shown in assembled relationship in FIG. 12.
- the body 702 opens upwardly forming an elongated top opening.
- the opening may be enclosed by means of a cover 710 as further shown in FIG. 21.
- the cover 710 includes a top wall 766 and a pair of depending spaced apart walls 768 , 770 .
- the wall 766 , 768 are spaced apart so as to frictionally engage the interior surface of sidewalls 720 , 722 of the body 702 . This provides a friction fit to allow attachment and removal of the cover 710 .
- One or both ends of the cover 710 may be formed with an opening 772 to allow for passage of cables form the interior of the forearm extension 700 .
- the other end of the cover 710 may be straight, provided with a shaped opening so as to conform to the outer wall 746 of the first coupling 704 or provided with an opening (not shown).
- the first and second couplings 704 , 706 may be preformed as stock components having a configuration adapted to mate with the ends 724 , 732 of the body 702 of the forearm extension 700 .
- the recesses 748 , 750 , 760 , 762 may be preformed in the first and second couplings 704 , 706 or machined thereafter depending upon the size of the body 702 being used.
- the bore 744 within the first coupling 704 may be closed by means of a coupling cover 712 as shown in FIG. 22.
- the bottom surface of the coupling cover 722 includes a circumscribing depending rib 772 .
- the rib 772 is adapted to frictionally engage the inner surface of the first coupling 704 so as to frictionally attach the coupling cover to the first coupling.
Abstract
A modular forearm extension includes an elongated U-shaped body severed from a member of indeterminate length. A stiffening member is attached to the interior of the body to provide additional strength to the forearm extension. A pair of couplings are fixedly attached to the ends of the body, each having a bore therethrough. The couplings are provided with surface recesses adapted to receive the corresponding shaped ends of the elongated body for attachment and attachment thereto.
Description
- The present application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 10/061,880 entitled “Modular Mounting Arm”, filed Feb. 1, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- This invention relates in general to an apparatus for mounting devices, and more specifically, to a modular forearm extension for mounting electronic peripheral devices in a statically balanced adjustable position.
- Articulated extension arms for mounting electronic peripheral devices, such as computer monitors, notebook computers, internet computers, video cassette recorders, cameras, computer keyboards, televisions, and the like are well known in prior art. For example, there is known from O'Neill, U.S. Pat. No. 4,852,842; Greene, U.S. Pat. No. 5,584,596; and Voeller et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,743,503 various mechanical support arms.
- Due to recent advances in flat-screen technology, there is a demand for adjustable extension arms particularly suited for use with flat-screen devices, such as flat-screen computer monitors and televisions. One such example is described in Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 6,478,274 entitled “Arm Apparatus For Mounting Electronic Devices.” Another example is described in Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 6,409,134 entitled “Arm Apparatus for Mounting Electronic Devices with Cable Management System.” The disclosures of these applications are incorporated herein by reference.
- FIGS. 1 through 7, including their respective sub-figures, disclose an extension arm for mounting an electronic peripheral device in accordance with Applicant's prior extension arms. The main elements of the extension arm are a
first endcap 100,upper channel 200,lower channel 300,suspension device 400,second endcap 500 andforearm extension 600. The extension arm is capable of supporting an electronic device attached to a mounting device, such as atilter 700, and also provides an internal cable management system for acable 900. - The
first endcap 100 has anendcap shaft 101 that may contain a plurality of concentriccircumferential grooves 114. Theendcap shaft 101 may be pivotably attached to a rigid support mount (not shown), such as an orifice sized to accept theendcap shaft 101 or a track configured and sized to slidably engage thegrooves 114 provided, or both. - The
first endcap 100 contains two pairs of holes 113 (See FIG. 2) therethrough such thatpins 102 may pivotally couple theupper channel 200 andlower channel 300 to thefirst endcap 100. Similarly, thesecond endcap 500 contains two pair of holes 513 (See FIG. 2) disposed therethrough such thatpins 550 pivotally couple the opposite ends of theupper channel 200 and thelower channel 300 to the second endcap. - The combination of the upper and
lower channels second endcaps forearm extension 600 to be raised and lowered to a desirable height. The parallelogram retains its position by employing asuspension device 400, which is pivotally and adjustably attached to thefirst endcap 100 and theupper channel 200, as will be further described below. Generally, thesuspension device 400 is sized so as to have a fixed length until an upward or downward force is exerted at thesecond endcap 500 that exceeds the suspension device's designed resistance. Onesuitable suspension device 400 is a gas filled piston known for this purpose and commercially available from a variety of manufacturers. Typically, such a gas filled piston will have an adjustable resistance with a range suitable for use in accordance with the weight of the electronic peripheral device specified. Thus, thesuspension device 400 causes the parallelogram to retain its position when the only force exerted at thesecond endcap 500 is the weight of the device, but permits the parallelogram to be adjusted when a user pushes the electronic peripheral device up or down. - A first
female coupling 602 couples thesecond endcap 500 to theforearm extension 600 while a secondfemale coupling 603 couples the opposite end of theforearm extension 600 to the mounting device, such as thetilter 700. Thereafter, the mounting device may be coupled to the electrical peripheral device. The electrical peripheral device may in turn have acable 900 of sufficient length and diameter as to permit its placement through theforearm extension 600,second endcap 500, andlower channel 300, so as not to be visible in those areas. - FIGS. 3A through 3E illustrate the
first endcap 100, having theendcap shaft 101 disposed on afirst end 103 of thefirst endcap 100. In accordance with one embodiment as shown in FIG. 3A, theendcap shaft 101 has anendwall 181 with ahole 104 formed at itsfirst end 103. Thefirst endcap 100 also has asecond end 105 with anendwall 151 having ahole 106 disposed therethrough. Within theholes trough walls 158, is a threadedrod 107. Afirst end 108 of the threadedrod 107 is inserted into thehole 104 at the base of theendcap shaft 101. Asecond end 109 of the threadedrod 107 is aligned with thehole 106 and held in place with aclip 110. Theclip 110 is fastened to an inner surface of thefirst endcap 100 byscrews 111. - In accordance with the preferred embodiment as shown in FIG. 3B, the
first endcap 100 further includes asidewall 152 between theendwalls 151 forming a partially enclosedhousing 150. Theendcap shaft 101 is typically integrally molded to theendwall 151 of thefirst endcap 100. Preferably, the entire first endcap 100 (the partially enclosedhousing 150 and the endcap shaft 101) is molded from zinc. Within the partially enclosedhousing 150 and integrally molded on thesidewall 152 are a plurality ofstops 153 disposed in proximity to theendwalls 151. Also within the partially enclosedhousing 150 are thetrough walls 158, disposed longitudinally along the inner surface of thesidewall 152 between theendwalls 151 so as to define atrough 159 therebetween. - The
stops 153 serve to provide limits of upward or downward movement of theupper channel 200 andlower channel 300 when the ends of theupper channel 200 andlower channel 300, respectively, meet thestops 153 when one moves the electronic peripheral device in extended or contracted positions. Thetrough 159 disposed between thetrough walls 158 allows aclevis 120 to be moved therein. As discussed in more detail later, the clevis provides connection and adjustment means for one end of thesuspension device 400. - FIG. 3C illustrates a variation of the
first endcap 100 in accordance with the preferred embodiment, whereinshelves 160 define co-planar faces separated by agroove 161. Theshelves 160 have a connection means, such as self-tappingscrew holes 162 disposed therein. The co-planar faces of theshelves 160 are configured to engage aretainer clip 163, which is fastened in place, for example, by a pair ofscrews 164. When the retainer clip is fastened in place, thegroove 161 defines a space for accepting oneend 108 of the threadedrod 107. - The threaded
rod 107 is employed within thefirst endcap 100 so as to adjustably support theclevis 120. FIG. 3D illustrates the threadedrod 107, thesecond end 109 of which has a circular cross-section within which is axially disposed ashaped opening 165, for example, a hex-shaped opening for accepting a shaped key (not shown), such as a hex-shaped key. The cross-sectional diameter of thesecond end 109 is smaller than a cross-sectional diameter of thehole 106, so as to be inserted therein. Adjacent thesecond end 109 is ashoulder 166. Theshoulder 166 has a circular cross-section of a diameter larger than the cross-sectional diameter of thehole 106. Thus, theshoulder 166 abuts an inner surface of theendwall 151 and retains thesecond end 109 within thehole 106. - The
first end 108 of the threadedrod 107 is disposed in thegroove 161 located between theshelves 160 of the first endcap 100 (See FIG. 3B) or thehole 104 of the endcap shaft 101 (See FIG. 3A). Thefirst end 108 of the threadedrod 107 has a circular cross-section having a diameter that is smaller than the size of thegroove 161 or thehole 104, such that thefirst end 108 is supported between theshelves 160 but is free to rotate therein. - Between the
first end 108 and thesecond end 109 of the threadedrod 107 is a threadedsection 167. Threadably mounted on the threadedsection 167 is theclevis 120. Theclevis 120 as illustrated in FIG. 3E, has a tappedhole 121 formed therein for receiving the threadedrod 107. Theclevis 120 also has a pair offastening members 123 at afirst end 122 to which are fastened a first end of thesuspension device 400. Thesecond end 124 of the clevis is configured so as to slidably engage thetrough 159. - The
second end 109 of the threadedrod 107 can be engaged by a shaped key to rotate the threadedrod 107 around its axial centerline. When the threadedrod 107 is rotated around this axis of rotation, theclevis 120 travels along the length of the threadedrod 107 in a direction corresponding to the direction which the shaped key is turned. This movement of theclevis 120 adjusts the length of thesuspension device 400 thereby altering its resistance. - FIGS. 4A through 4D illustrate several views of the
upper channel 200 according to the prior art. Theupper channel 200 includes aU-shaped body 201 and integrally castrollers 202 disposed at opposite ends of theU-shaped body 201. Therollers 202 can also be separately constructed and subsequently welded onto the ends of theU-shaped body 201 as disclosed in Applicant's aforementioned patent applications. TheU-shaped body 201 comprises achannel bottom 203 from which extend twochannel sidewalls 204. For heavy weight electronic peripheral devices, thechannel bottom 203 and thesidewalls 204 are typically stamped from heavy gauge steel with therollers 202 being welded thereto. For lightweight electronic peripheral devices, thechannel bottom 203, thesidewalls 204 and therollers 202 of theupper channel 200 are typically integrally cast from zinc, giving the upper channel a lesser weight and degree of rigidity more appropriate for the lighter weight application. - Cast molded
upper channels 200 permit the angle between thechannel bottom 203 and the channel sidewalls 204 to be exactly the same for each manufacturedupper channel 200. Moreover, cast molding permits thesidewalls 204 to be tapered. As illustrated in FIGS. 4(c) and 4(d), both an outer surface and an inner surface of thesidewalls 204 may taper in, for example, by approximately 1 degree. The taper allows for clearance between the upper andlower channels lower channels sidewalls 204 being displaced by 1 degree means that there is additional clearance for thelower channel 300 to fit there within. The addition clearance ensures that theupper channel 200 andlower channel 300 will not scrape together during usage. - The
rollers 202 have ahole 205 therethrough (either cast in or subsequently drilled) for receiving a connection mechanism, such aspins channel bottom 203 includes an integrally cast threaded hole configured and sized to receive a threadedend ball stud 207. The ball stud is configured and sized to receive a second end of thesuspension device 400. - FIGS. 5A through 5E illustrate several views of the lower channel according to the prior art. The
lower channel 300 includes aU-shaped body 301 and integrally castrollers 302 disposed at opposite ends of theU-shaped body 301. The U-shaped body of thelower channel 300 includes achannel bottom 303 from which extend twochannel sidewalls 304. As with theupper channel 200 components, for heavy weight electronic peripheral devices, thechannel bottom 303 and thesidewalls 304 of thelower channel 300 are typically stamped from heavy gauge steel, therollers 302 being welded thereto. For lightweight electronic peripheral devices, thechannel bottom 303, thesidewalls 304 and therollers 302 of thelower channel 300 are typically integrally cast from zinc, giving the lower channel a lesser weight and degree of rigidity more appropriate for the lighter weight application. Therollers 302 have ahole 305 therethrough (either cast or subsequently drilled) for receiving a connection mechanism, such as thepins - The
channel bottom 303 additionally includes acable channel 306 running longitudinally there along. Typically, afirst end 307 of thecable channel 306 starts near the end of thechannel bottom 303 that pivotably connects to thefirst endcap 100. Thecable channel 306 then runs along the entire length of thechannel bottom 303 to the end of the channel bottom that pivotably connects to thesecond endcap 500. Thesecond end 308 of thecable channel 306 provides an opening between therollers 302. Thefirst end 307 may be, for example, rounded to improve the rigidity of thelower channel 300. Thecable channel 306 is configured to receive a cable cover 325 (illustrated in FIG. 5E) which is configured to removably fit within the cable channel. Thus,cables 900 of the mounted device may be substantially retained within thelower channel 300 so as to hide them from view and protect them from harm. Thecable channel 306 and thecable cover 325 enable cables to be accessed when desired, while securing them within thelower channel 300. - As illustrated in FIGS. 5C and 5D the
sidewalls 304 of thelower channel 300 are also tapered. For example, an outer surface of thesidewalls 304 may be tapered approximately M degree while an inner surface may be tapered approximately 1 degree. It should be noted that the taper is not limited to a particular angle, and that the taper of the inner surface and the outer surface may be the same. The taper is possible because thelower channel 300 is typically cast molded. As noted above with respect to theupper channel 200, the taper provides more clearance between theupper channel 200 and thelower channel 300 so as to reduce or eliminate the chance of the upper and thelower channels - As illustrated in FIG. 5E, the
cable cover 325 includes atop cover 326 with twosidewalls 327 extending therefrom. A far end of eachsidewall 327 has acatch 328 formed thereon so as to engage with thecable channel 306. Typically, thecable cover 325 is molded from plastic and is sufficiently flexible so that thestops 328 may be engaged and disengaged from thecable channel 306 as necessary. The cover is not, however, so flexible that thestops 328 naturally flex such that thecable cover 325 fails to engage with thecable channel 306. - As illustrated in FIGS. 6A through 6I the
second endcap 500 includes a partiallyenclosed housing 501 and ashaft assembly 502. The partiallyenclosed housing 501 has afirst endwall 503 and asecond endwall 504 oppositely disposed from each other and fixedly connected by asidewall 505. Thesidewall 505 extends partially around the partiallyenclosed housing 501 so as to permit manipulation of components, such as cables, which may be contained there within. Thefirst endwall 503 has ahole 506 disposed therethrough and threadedholes 507 disposed therein that are in communication with thehole 506. Typically, the diameter of thehole 506 is large enough to allow a plug end of a cable to fit therethrough. Disposed within the threadedholes 507 are setscrews 508. - As illustrated in FIGS. 6E through 6G, the
shaft assembly 502 typically includes twosymmetrical endcap adapters 509 which when assembled provide the boundaries for ahollow shaft 510. Theendcap adapters 509 have a mountingend 511 and ashaft end 512 that is thinner than the mountingend 511. As illustrated in FIG. 6D, the mounting ends 511 of both of theendcap adapters 509 are inserted into thehole 506 and are coupled together and to the partiallyenclosed housing 501, to form thesecond endcap 500, by tightening the set screws 508. - As stated earlier, the upper and the
lower channels second endcaps shaft 101 of thefirst endcap 100 and thehollow shaft 510 of thesecond endcap 500 point in opposite directions. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, theshaft 101 of thefirst endcap 100 extends vertically downward while thehollow shaft 510 of thesecond endcap 500 extends vertically upward. The shape of the parallelogram is retained by thesuspension device 400. As previously mentioned, the first end of thesuspension device 400 is adjustably mounted to theclevis 120 within thefirst endcap 100 and the second end is attached to theball stud 207 mounted within theupper channel 200. - Generally, the
suspension device 400 is sized so as to have a fixed length until an upward or downward force is exerted at thesecond endcap 500 that exceeds the suspension device's designed resistance. Thus, thesuspension device 400 retains the parallelogram shape when the only force exerted at thesecond endcap 500 is the weight of the electronic peripheral device. However, thesuspension device 400 permits the parallelogram shape to be adjusted when a user pushes the electronic peripheral device coupled to theforearm extension 600 up or down. - With reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the forearm extension of the prior art includes a
body 601 having a firstfemale coupling 602 located on a first end and a secondfemale coupling 603 located on a second end. The firstfemale coupling 601 has aninner diameter 604 that is sized to rotatably engage thehollow shaft 510 of thesecond endcap 500. The firstfemale coupling 602 is also configured to receive a cable through thehollow shaft 510. That is, the firstfemale coupling 602 has acable slot 605 formed therein, for example by milling thecable slot 605 into the firstfemale coupling 602, or by casting the firstfemale coupling 602 with thecable slot 605 integrally formed therein. - The first
female coupling 602 generally has a setscrew 606 formed within awall 607 thereof. Theset screw 606 can be tightened to prevent the firstfemale coupling 602 from rotating about thehollow shaft 510. Advantageously, the firstfemale coupling 602 has a plurality ofvoids 608 formed in thewall 607, which saves on material costs and weight and permits theforearm extension 600, when cast, to be cooled more quickly. - A bushing609 (See FIG. 2) is preferably used to engage the first
female coupling 602 and thehollow shaft 510. That is, thebushing 609 is placed over thehollow shaft 510 and within the firstfemale coupling 602. Thebushing 609 is preferably made of a smooth material, such as plastic, in order to reduce friction and prevent metal to metal contact. As illustrated in FIGS. 6H and 6I, thebushing 609 also has acable slot 610 formed therein. Thecable slots set screw 606 is tightened it causes thebushing 609 to flex inward and frictionally engage thehollow shaft 510 and thus prevent theforearm extension 600 from rotating about thehollow shaft 510. Thehollow shaft 510 and the firstfemale coupling 602 are held together by utilizing ascrew 611 and a washer 612 (See FIG. 2). - The
body 601 preferably has an inverted U-shape with atopwall 613 and twosidewalls 614 so that a cable can be hidden therein. Advantageously attached within theU-shaped body 601, and preferably on thetopwall 613, is a cable holder 615 (See FIG. 2). Thecable holder 615 secures a cable within the U-shaped body so that it can be hidden from view as it travels the length of theforearm extension 600. - The second
female coupling 603 is for attachment to a device mounting, such as atilter 700 described in Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 6,505,988 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Thus, the secondfemale coupling 603 has aninner diameter 616 that is sized to rotatably engage a shaft of the device mount. A bushing 621 (See FIG. 2), preferably made of a smooth material such as plastic, is placed over the shaft and within the secondfemale coupling 603. The secondfemale coupling 603 preferably has a setscrew 617 formed within awall 618 of the secondfemale coupling 603. When theset screw 617 is tightened it causes thebushing 617 to flex inward and frictionally engage the shaft and thus prevent the device mount from rotating around the secondfemale coupling 603. Advantageously, the secondfemale coupling 603 also has a plurality ofvoids 619 formed in thewall 618. - The
forearm extension 600 illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, has thetopwall 620 flush with an upper edge of thefemale couplings female coupling 602 is larger than the secondfemale coupling 603, the center of the firstfemale coupling 602 is not aligned with the center of the secondfemale coupling 603 or an axial centerline of thebody 601. It should be noted that an alternative embodiment is to have the center of thefemale couplings axial centerline 621 of thebody 601 all aligned, so that thetopwall 620 would not be aligned with an upper edge of the firstfemale coupling 602. - Referring back to FIG. 1, an electronic device such as a flat-screen monitor is attached to a device mounting, such as tilter which is rotatably coupled to the second
female coupling 603. A cable, such as a power cable, proceeds from the electronic peripheral device to the underside of thebody 601 of theforearm extension 600. The cable is held in place within thebody 601 by thecable holder 615. The cable proceeds from the body through thecable slots bushing 609 and the firstfemale coupling 602. The cable then proceeds through thehollow shaft 510 of thesecond endcap 500. The cable exits thesecond endcap 500 through the open end of the partiallyenclosed housing 501. The cable proceeds down the length of thelower channel 300 and exits at thefirst end 307 of thecable channel 306, while being hidden from view and substantially protected by thecable cover 325. - Typically, the cable is inserted into the
lower channel 300 as portions of thelower channel 300 andupper channel 200 are being assembled. That is, the cable is placed under thebody 601 of theforearm extension 600 and is held in place by thecable holder 615. The cable is then passed through thecable slots hole 506 in thesecond endcap 500. Thesecond endcap 500 is now assembled by inserting the mountingend 511 of eachendcap adapter 509 into thehole 506, thus surrounding the cable. Theendcap adapters 509 are held together and within thehole 506 by tightening the set screws 508. Thehollow shaft 510 is then placed within the firstfemale coupling 602. The cable is placed within thelower channel 300, prior to thelower channel 300 and the second endcap being secured together. This ensures that the cable is above theroller 302 and is contained within the hollow bar formed by theupper channel 200 and thelower channel 300. - Referring back to FIG. 2, several additional components of the
extension arm 100 are typical. For aesthetic purposes, abumper 650 may be placed on thesecond endwall 504 of thesecond endcap 500 and aplug 651 is generally placed over the firstfemale coupling 602. Awasher 652 is typically placed over the twoendcap adapters 509 to help secure them together. - It has become increasingly apparent that additional innovations are necessary to make forearm extensions for electronic peripheral devices more cost effective. Forearm extensions according to the prior art have been manufactured utilizing members individual to specified stock lengths. Thus, if an end-user required a forearm extension of a particular length different from that manufactured, it was either unavailable, or more costly because an entirely new forearm assembly of the correct length would have to be manufactured. Additionally, if a manufacturer wished to provide forearm extensions of various lengths, he would be required to maintain an inventory of several different length components at a significant cost.
- In one embodiment of the present invention, there is described a forearm extension comprising an elongated U-shaped body having a hollow interior, the body including first and second ends, an elongated stiffening member fixedly secured within the interior of the body, a first coupling having an outer wall fixedly attached to the first end of the body, and a second coupling having an outer wall fixedly attached to the second end of the body, the first and second couplings each including a bore having a longitudinal centerline parallel to each other.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention there is described a forearm extension for mounting an electronic device thereto, the forearm extension comprising an elongated U-shaped body having a hollow interior, the body including first and second ends; an elongated stiffening member fixedly secured within the interior of the body; a first coupling including an outer wall having a pair of first recesses, the first end of the body fixedly attached to the first coupling within the first recesses; and a second coupling including an outer wall having a pair of second recesses, the second end of the body fixedly attached to the second coupling within the second recesses; the first coupling having a bore therein in communication with the interior of the body through an opening provided within the outer wall of the first coupling; and the second coupling having a bore therein adapted for mounting an electronic device thereto.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention there is described a method of making a forearm extension, the method comprising forming an elongated hollow body having first and second ends and a cavity extending therebetween; fixedly securing a stiffening member to the body within the cavity; fixedly attaching the first end of the body to a first coupling; and fixedly attaching the second end of the body to a second coupling; the first coupling including a first pair of recesses receiving the first end of the body and the second coupling including a second pair of recesses receiving the second end of the body.
- In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention there is described a method of making a forearm extension having a predetermined length, the method comprising forming a U-shaped elongated hollow body of indefinite length relative to the length of the forearm extension, the elongated hollow body having a cavity extending therethrough; severing a portion of the elongated hollow body to provide a predetermined length hollow body; fixedly securing a stiffening member having first and second ends within the cavity of the predetermined length hollow body; providing a first coupling having an outer wall and a first pair of spaced apart recesses; fixedly attaching one end of the elongated hollow member to the first coupling within the first pair of recesses; providing a second coupling having an outer wall and a second pair of spaced apart recesses; and fixedly attaching the other end of the elongated hollow body to the second coupling within the second pair of recesses.
- The above description, as well as further objects, features and advantages of the present invention, will be more fully understood with reference to the following detailed description of a modular forearm extension, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
- FIG. 1 is an assembly drawing in front elevation of an extension arm for mounting a computer monitor in accordance with the prior art;
- FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly drawing in perspective view of the extension arm in accordance with the prior art;
- FIGS. 3A through 3E illustrate various views of the first endcap and the components forming the first endcap in accordance with the prior art;
- FIGS. 4A through 4D illustrate various views of the upper arm extension in accordance with the prior art;
- FIGS. 5A through 5E depict various views of the lower arm extension in accordance with the prior art;
- FIGS. 6A through 6I illustrate various views of the second endcap and the components forming the second endcap in accordance with the prior art;
- FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate various views of the forearm extension in accordance with the prior art;
- FIGS. 8A through 8G illustrate various views of the upper arm extension and components therefore forming the upper arm extension constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
- FIGS. 9A through 9F illustrate various views of the lower arm extension and components therefore forming the lower arm extension constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
- FIGS. 10A through 10F illustrate various views of the forearm extension and components therefore forming the forearm extension in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 11 is an assembled view of an extension arm constructed in accordance with the present invention;
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a module forearm extension constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an elongated body forming one component of the forearm extension;
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the elongated body configured for use in the forearm extension as shown in FIG. 12;
- FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an elongated stiffening member forming one component of the forearm extension;
- FIG. 16 is a perspective assembled view of the forearm extension body and stiffening member;
- FIGS. 17 and 18 are perspective views of a first coupling forming a component of the forearm extension;
- FIGS. 19 and 20 are perspective views of a second coupling forming a component of the forearm extension;
- FIGS.21 is a perspective view of an elongated forearm extension cover forming a component of the forearm extension; and
- FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a coupling cover forming a component of the forearm extension.
- In describing the preferred embodiments of the subject matter illustrated and to be described with respect to the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalence which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.
- Referring to FIGS. 8A through 8F, there is illustrated an
upper arm extension 250 constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Theupper arm extension 250 is constructed of an upperchannel exterior member 253, a pair ofroller units 251 and a reinforcingbar 252. Theupper arm extension 250 can be constructed from a variety of metals, such as extruded aluminum which has the beneficial properties of both strength and light weight. The upperchannel exterior member 253 is in the nature of a U-shaped member of indeterminate length. The upperchannel exterior member 253 is capable of being cut from an indeterminate length to a user specified size and will therefore include afirst end 262 and asecond end 263. Accordingly, multiple upperchannel exterior members 253 can be cut from a single extruded length of stock material. - The upper channel exterior fitting253 includes two spaced apart sidewalls 255 and a transversally arranged
top wall 254 therebetween, thus forming the U-shaped member. Thesidewalls 255 may be tapered as previously described. Located on the interior surface of eachsidewall 255 at positions equidistant below thetop wall 254 are two projectingshelves 256. Theshelves 256 generally extend between the first and second ends 262, 263 of the upperchannel exterior member 253, such that they run through the entire length of theupper channel 250. Theshelves 256 are situated such that anopen cavity 259 is formed between thetop wall 254,sidewalls 255 and the shelves. Thecavity 259 is defined bycavity walls 261 and acavity roof 260. At each end of theupper channel 250, a notch such as acircular region 264 can be cut out of thesidewalls 255 where it joins withtopwall 254 to accommodate a portion of theroller units 251 in assembled relationship, as to be described hereinafter. - A reinforcing
bar 252 of preferably tubular construction is slideably disposed or force fit within thecavity 259 along the length of the upperchannel exterior member 253 between the first and second ends, 262, 263. The bar is sized in height and width such that itsbottom surface 257 rests upon theshelves 256 while thetop surface 258 generally contacts thecavity roof 260 and itsside surfaces 263 generally contact thecavity walls 261 forming a rigid structure. Thebar 252 is formed with acavity 274 extending therethrough. Typically, the reinforcingbar 252 is formed from extruded steel or other suitable material to enhance and strengthen theupper channel 250 and is cut to a length dependent on, and generally equal to, the final length of the upperchannel exterior member 253. Formed with the top andbottom surfaces bar 252 at both ends are throughholes 265. Theholes 265 are preferably located near both of the first and second ends 262, 263 of theupper channel 250, and as illustrated, are typically elongated holes, although other shapes are contemplated. - Each
roller unit 251 includes arectangular member 266 of solid or tubular construction from extruded aluminum having afirst end 269 and asecond end 270, and acylindrical member 267 also formed from aluminum. At thesecond end 270 of eachrectangular member 266, an arcuate orsemi-circular region 268 may be formed. Thecylindrical member 267 is welded transversally to a respectiverectangular member 266 along the length of thetop wall 271,bottom wall 272, and sidewalls 273 of the rectangular member. Eachcylindrical member 267 has a cast or formedhole 205 extending therethrough such that it may be pivotally attached viapins first endcap 100 orsecond endcap 500. Theroller unit 251 may also be formed as an integral one piece casting or machining and the like. - The
rectangular member 266 is sized and shaped such that it may be snugly disposed longitudinally within thecavity 274 of the reinforcingbar 252. Provided through thetop wall 271 andbottom wall 272 of therectangular member 266 are aligned openings, for example, elongated holes 275. When theroller units 251 are properly slid within the reinforcingbar 252, theholes holes bar 252 and eachroller unit 251 to be fixed in assembled position. Typically, the reinforcing bar is made of steel while theroller units 251 andupper channel 250 are made of aluminum. This material divergence prevents each element from being directly welded together. - In one embodiment of the invention, aluminum material may be welded to the
roof 260 of thetop wall 254 of the upperchannel exterior member 253 by filling theholes rigid connection plug 280 as shown in FIG. 8G. In another embodiment, a pre-formed aluminum plug (not shown) suitably sized to fill the space within the twoelongated holes channel exterior member 253. In either case, the plug serves to lock the components together in assembled relationship, such that they may no longer slide relative to one another. In another embodiment, theroller units 251, reinforcingbar 252 and upperchannel exterior member 253 may be chemically bonded, for example, with epoxy adhesive. Additionally, these components may be mechanically connected with, for example, screws or rivets or the like. - As previously described, each
roller unit 251 is engaged with the upper channel's respectivefirst end 262 andsecond end 263. At eachfirst end 262 andsecond end 263, thecylindrical member 267 of eachroller unit 251 abuts the upper channel. The abutment may either be directly against thefirst end 262 andsecond end 263 or may be within the notches, such as thecircular region 264 expressly provided for this purpose. For illustrative purposes, FIG. 8B depicts afirst end 262 with the standard abutment against a right angle corner and asecond end 263 with the notchedsemi-circular region 264, See also FIG. 8A. It is therefore contemplated that the ends of the reinforcingbar 252 will be similarly notched with a corresponding circular region to receive thecylindrical member 267. - Disposed adjacent the
second end 263 of theupper channel 250 is a tappedhole 277 within the reinforcingmember 252. The tapped hole is sized to accept a threadedend ball stud 278. The ball stud is configured and sized and threaded to receive the second end of thesuspension device 400, as previously described in the prior art. - FIGS. 9A through 9F illustrate a
lower arm extension 350 including a lowerchannel exterior member 363, a pair ofroller units 351 and a reinforcingbar 352 constructed in a like manner as theupper arm extension 250 detailed above. - Referring to FIGS. 8D and 9C, each
sidewall lower channel lower channels lower channels sidewalls 276 of the upperchannel exterior member 253 being tapered by approximately ½ to 1 degree means that there is additional clearance for theexterior surface 376 of the lowerchannel exterior member 353, which can be similarly tapered, to fit there within. The addition clearance ensures that theupper channel 250 andlower channel 350 will not scrape together during usage. - Referring to FIGS. 10A through 10F, there is illustrated a
forearm extension 650 constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, theforearm extension 650 includes a firstfemale coupling 651,elongated body 652 and secondfemale coupling 653, each formed from aluminum or similar material. In one embodiment of the present embodiment, thebody 652 is formed from extruded metal of indeterminate length, preferably aluminum, and may be cut or formed to a user specified length to achieve aforearm extension 650 of the required length when connected to the firstfemale coupling 651 and the secondfemale coupling 653. The first and secondfemale couplings - As shown in FIG. 10B, the first
female coupling 651 includes acoupling end 654 and ashaft end 655. Thecoupling end 654 has a throughbore 800 having aninner diameter 656 that is sized to rotatably engage thehollow shaft 510 of thesecond endcap 500. The firstfemale coupling 651 is also configured to receive a cable through thehollow shaft 510. That is, the firstfemale coupling 651 has acable slot 657 formed therein during casting which communicates with the interior of theelongated body 652. - The first
female coupling 651 generally has a threadedhole 658 to receive a set screw (not shown) formed within awall 659 thereof. The set screw can be tightened to prevent the firstfemale coupling 651 from rotating about thehollow shaft 510. A bushing 609 (See FIG. 2) is preferably used to engage the firstfemale coupling 651 and thehollow shaft 510. That is, thebushing 609 is placed over thehollow shaft 510 and within the firstfemale coupling 651. Thebushing 609 is preferably made of a smooth material, such as plastic, in order to reduce friction and prevent metal to metal contact. As illustrated in FIG. 6H, thebushing 609 also has acable slot 610 formed therein. Thecable slots set screw 658 is tightened it causes thebushing 609 to flex inward and frictionally engage thehollow shaft 510 and thus prevent theforearm extension 650 from rotating about thehollow shaft 510. Thehollow shaft 510 and the firstfemale coupling 651 are held together by utilizing ascrew 611 and a washer 612 (See FIG. 2) threadably engaging a portion of thesecond endcap 500. - The
shaft end 655 of the firstfemale coupling 651 is constructed in a U-shaped configuration with abottom wall 670 and two spaced apart sidewalls 671. Eachsidewall 671 extends outwardly from thecoupling end 654 of the firstfemale coupling 651. Formed within the bottom wall is a void 674, such as an elongated hole. - The
shaft end 655 of the firstfemale coupling 651 is sized and shaped such that it may be slideably engaged within thebody 652 of theforearm extension 650. The body is configured as a lipped U-shaped member forming a hollow interior which is slightly larger than theshaft end 655 of the firstfemale coupling 651 to accept same. Specifically, thebody 652 as shown in FIG. 10C includes abottom wall 675, spaced apart sidewalls 676 and a partially enclosedtop wall 677 formed by inwardly extending lips. Thebody 652 and the firstfemale coupling 651 are joined together such that thebottom wall 675 of the body slideably engages thebottom wall 670 of theshaft end 655 of the first female coupling; the inner surface of thesidewalls 676 of the body slideably engage the outer surfaces of thesidewalls 671 of theshaft end 655 of the firstfemale coupling 651; and, the sidewalltop surface 673 of theshaft end 655 of the firstfemale coupling 651 slideably engages undersurface of thelips 677 of thebody 652. Theshaft end 655 is permitted to penetrate thebody 652 untilstops 672 disposed at the junction of thecoupling end 654 and theshaft end 655 prevent further movement. Thestops 672 are sized and positioned such that thevoid 674 of theshaft end 655 will align over thebottom wall 675 of thebody 652. The first female coupling may be rigidly attached to thebody 652 using similar means as that described for the upperchannel exterior fittings 253 connection with theperspective roller units 251, including by means of a welded plug, preformed plug, chemical bonding, screw or rivet. The aforementioned engagement form an essentially rigid structure. - Slidably engaged into the opposite end of the
body 652 in a similar manner is the secondfemale coupling 653. The secondfemale coupling 653 includes ashaft end 680 and acoupling end 681. Thecoupling end 681 comprises two spaced apart sidewalls 682 and acircular endwall 683 directly opposite theshaft end 680. Within thecoupling end 681 is a throughbore 699 having aninner diameter 684 for rotatably engaging a shaft of the tilter or similar device mount (not shown). A bushing 617 (See FIG. 2), preferably made of a smooth material such as plastic, is placed over the shaft and within theinner diameter 684 of the secondfemale coupling 653. The secondfemale coupling 653 preferably has a threaded hole to accept aset screw 685 formed within awall 686 created by theinner diameter 684 and thesemi-circular endwall 683. When theset screw 685 is tightened it causes thebushing 617 to flex inward and frictionally engage the shaft and thus prevent the device mount from rotating around the secondfemale coupling 653. - Formed within the
coupling end 681 of the secondfemale coupling 653 is acable opening 684. The opening is suitably sized such that the device cable and plug may be placed therethrough. Following placement through the cable opening, the cable and plug may then be placed through thecable slot 685, thebody 652, and the firstfemale coupling 651, as previously described. - The
shaft end 680 of the secondfemale coupling 653 is shaped and dimensioned such that it may be slideably engaged within the opposite end of thebody 652 of theforearm extension 650 as the firstfemale coupling 651. As such, theshaft end 680 of the secondfemale coupling 653 is cast in a U-shaped configuration with abottom wall 681 and two spaced apart sidewalls 682. Eachsidewall 682 extends outwardly from astop 683 formed with thecoupling end 681 of the secondfemale coupling 653. Formed within thebottom wall 681 is a void 687, such as anelongated hole 686. Thevoid 686 is utilized in a similar manner as that of the firstfemale coupling void 674 to form an essentially rigid structure with thebody 652. - A
cable cover 692 is typically affixed upon the firstfemale coupling 651,body 652, and secondfemale coupling 653. The cover is molded from plastic and contains atop cover 695 with a pair of sidewalls extending therefrom. The cable cover is shaped and sized such that thetop cover 695 rests upon the first female coupling,body 652 and secondfemale coupling 653. As such, at the firstfemale coupling 651, the cover is circular in shape. Similarly, the extendingsidewalls 693 are semi-circular in shape and extend into theinner diameter 656. Thesidewalls 693 are suitably flexible such that stops 694 attached thereto engage theinner diameter 656 with sufficient pressure to prevent the cover from being released without an intent to do so. The portion of thecover 692 affixed to theshaft end 655 of the firstfemale coupling 651, thebody 652, and the secondfemale coupling 653 is rectangular corresponding to the shape of those elements. This portion of thecable cover 692 may be cut to a corresponding length to that of the specifiedforearm extension 600. An assembled extension arm constructed in accordance with the present invention as thus far described as shown in FIG. 11. - Turning to FIG. 12, there is shown a modular forearm extension constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention and generally designated by
reference numeral 700. Theforearm extension 700 includes an elongatedmain body 702, afirst coupling 704 fixedly attached to one end of the body, asecond coupling 706 fixedly attached to the other end of the body, and optionally, an elongated stiffening member 708 (See FIG. 15), anelongated body cover 710 and acoupling cover 712. Theforearm extension 700 may also include apolymer bushing 714 received within thesecond coupling 706. - Referring to FIG. 13, the
body 702 is initially formed from an elongatedU-shaped member 716 of undefined length. TheU-shaped member 716 includes abottom wall 718 and a pair of spaced apart sidewalls 720, 722. Theelongated member 716 is generally a stock component of the forearm extension which is cut to size depending upon the required length of the forearm extension. As such, theU-shaped member 716 may be extruded or otherwise formed into a U-shape of indefinite length. Themembers 716 may be stocked in various widths between thesidewalls - The
member 716 is severed into the predetermined length as desired for the particular forearm extension to be assembled. The ends of themember 716 are shaped or otherwise conformed to that required to mate with a corresponding one of the first andsecond couplings body 702 is formed with a circular shapedbottom wall end 726. The ends of thesidewalls bottom wall end 726 formingsidewall projection other end 732 of thebody 702 is also formed with a circular shapedbottom wall end 734 from which there extends spaced apartsidewall projections body 702 may be formed by various manufacturing techniques such as machining, grinding and the like. The ends 724, 732 are shaped to abut against its correspondingcoupling bottom wall 718 may be provided with anenlarged opening 738 adapted to allow cables and/or connectors to pass therethrough in use of theforearm extension 700. - In certain embodiments of the
forearm extension 700, it may be desirable to provide additional mechanical strength depending upon the application and load to be carried by the forearm extension. As shown in FIG. 15, an elongatedU-shaped stiffening member 740 is cut from an indeterminate length. The materials of construction, thickness and length of the stiffeningmember 740 may be determined based on the design and load criteria of the forearm extension. Although the stiffeningmember 740 has been described as a U-shaped member, it is to be understood that other shapes that provide structural rigidity may also be employed, for example, I-beam, rectangular and the like. - As shown in FIG. 16, the stiffening
member 740 is positioned within the interior of thebody 702 between thesidewalls bottom wall 718. The stiffeningmember 740 is fixedly secured to thebody 702 such as byweld spots 742 between the stiffening member and theadjacent sidewalls member 740 to the interior of thebody 702 may be employed to form a rigid structure. - Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the
first coupling 704 is in the nature of a cylindrical body having a throughbore 744. Theouter wall 746 forming thefirst coupling 704 is provided with a pair of spaced apart recesses 748, 750. Therecesses sidewall projections end 724 of thebody 702. This is partially shown in FIG. 12 whereinsidewall projection 728 is received withinrecess 748. Accordingly, therecesses sidewall projection body 702 to thefirst coupling 704. Once in the assembled relationship, thesidewalls outer wall 746 of thefirst coupling 704 from the interior of thebody 702 such as by forming weld fillets. - In the embodiment shown, the
recesses recesses sidewall projection first coupling 704 is offset from the longitudinal axis of thebody 702 forming theforearm extension 700, See FIG. 12. - The
outer wall 746 is optionally provided with anopening 752 providing communication between the interior of thebody 702 and bore 744 within thefirst coupling 704. Theouter wall 746 may additionally be provided with a threadedhole 754 for receiving a set screw (not shown). - Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the
second coupling 706 is formed from a cylindrical body having an outer wall 765 and a throughbore 758. Theouter wall 756 is provided with a pair of spaced apart recesses 760, 762 arranged in parallel spaced apart planes. Therecesses sidewall projections sidewall projection outer wall 756 within the interior of thebody 702 via weld fillets and the like. As shown, therecesses projections body 702 is aligned with the center axis of thesecond coupling 706 as shown in FIG. 12. However, theprojections second coupling 706 may optionally include a threadedhole 764 for receipt of a set screw (not shown). - The
forearm extension 700 is shown in assembled relationship in FIG. 12. Thebody 702 opens upwardly forming an elongated top opening. The opening may be enclosed by means of acover 710 as further shown in FIG. 21. Thecover 710 includes atop wall 766 and a pair of depending spaced apartwalls 768, 770. Thewall sidewalls body 702. This provides a friction fit to allow attachment and removal of thecover 710. One or both ends of thecover 710 may be formed with anopening 772 to allow for passage of cables form the interior of theforearm extension 700. The other end of thecover 710 may be straight, provided with a shaped opening so as to conform to theouter wall 746 of thefirst coupling 704 or provided with an opening (not shown). - The first and
second couplings ends body 702 of theforearm extension 700. Thus, it is contemplated that therecesses second couplings body 702 being used. - The
bore 744 within thefirst coupling 704 may be closed by means of acoupling cover 712 as shown in FIG. 22. The bottom surface of thecoupling cover 722 includes acircumscribing depending rib 772. Therib 772 is adapted to frictionally engage the inner surface of thefirst coupling 704 so as to frictionally attach the coupling cover to the first coupling. - Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that the embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and application of the present invention. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.
Claims (25)
1. A forearm extension comprising an elongated U-shaped body having a hollow interior, said body including first and second ends, an elongated stiffening member fixedly secured within the interior of said body, a first coupling having an outer wall fixedly attached to said first end of said body, and a second coupling having an outer wall fixedly attached to said second end of said body, said first and second couplings each including a bore having a longitudinal centerline parallel to each other.
2. The forearm extension of claim 1 , wherein said stiffening member comprise a U-shaped member.
3. The forearm extension of claim 1 , wherein said outer wall of said first coupling includes a pair of spaced apart recesses, wherein said first end of said body is fixedly attached within said recesses.
4. The forearm extension of claim 3 , wherein said outer wall of said first coupling includes an opening providing communication between said bore of said first coupling and the interior of said body.
5. The forearm extension of claim 1 , wherein said outer wall of said second coupling includes a pair of spaced apart recesses, wherein said second end of said body is fixedly attached within said recesses.
6. The forearm extension of claim 1 , further including an elongated cover attached to said body overlying said interior thereof.
7. The forearm extension of claim 1 , wherein said body includes a bottom wall having an opening adjacent said second end thereof.
8. The forearm extension of claim 1 , wherein said first end of said body has a shape conforming to the shape of said outer wall of said first coupling.
9. The forearm extension of claim 1 , wherein said second end of said body has a shape conforming to the shape of said outer wall of said second coupling.
10. A forearm extension for mounting an electronic device thereto, said forearm extension comprising an elongated U-shaped body having a hollow interior, said body including first and second ends; an elongated stiffening member fixedly secured within the interior of said body; a first coupling including an outer wall having a pair of first recesses, said first end of said body fixedly attached to said first coupling within said first recesses; and a second coupling including an outer wall having a pair of second recesses, said second end of said body fixedly attached to said second coupling within said second recesses; said first coupling having a bore therein in communication with the interior of said body through an opening provided within said outer wall of said first coupling; and said second coupling having a bore therein adapted for mounting an electronic device thereto.
11. The forearm extension of claim 10 , wherein said stiffening member comprise a U-shaped member.
12. The forearm extension of claim 10 , wherein said first end of said body has a shape conforming to the shape of said outer wall of said first coupling.
13. The forearm extension of claim 10 , wherein said second end of said body has a shape conforming to the shape of said outer wall of said second coupling.
14. The forearm extension of claim 10 , wherein said first end of said body includes a curved bottom wall end and a pair of spaced projecting sidewalls of different length.
15. The forearm extension of claim 10 , wherein said second end of said body includes a curved bottom wall and a pair of spaced projecting sidewalls of substantially the same length.
16. The forearm extension of claim 10 , wherein said first and second couplings are of cylindrical shape.
17. The forearm extension of claim 10 , wherein said first recesses are non-symmetrical.
18. The forearm extension of claim 10 , wherein said second recesses are symmetrical.
19. A method of making a forearm extension, said method comprising forming an elongated hollow body having first and second ends and a cavity extending therebetween; fixedly securing a stiffening member to said body within said cavity; fixedly attaching said first end of said body to a first coupling; and fixedly attaching said second end of said body to a second coupling; said first coupling including a first pair of recesses receiving said first end of said body and said second coupling including a second pair of recesses receiving said second end of said body.
20. The method of claim 19 , further including forming said first and second ends of said body to conform to the shape of a corresponding one of said first and second couplings.
21. The method of claim 19 , wherein said body has a U-shape.
22. The method of claim 19 wherein said elongated hollow body has a predetermined length by severing a portion forming said hollow body from an elongated hollow body of greater length.
23. A method of making a forearm extension having a predetermined length, said method comprising forming a U-shaped elongated hollow body of indefinite length relative to the length of said forearm extension, said elongated hollow body having a cavity extending therethrough; severing a portion of said elongated hollow body to provide a predetermined length hollow body; fixedly securing a stiffening member having first and second ends within said cavity of said predetermined length hollow body; providing a first coupling having an outer wall and a first pair of spaced apart recesses; fixedly attaching one end of said elongated hollow member to said first coupling within said first pair of recesses; providing a second coupling having an outer wall and a second pair of spaced apart recesses; and fixedly attaching the other end of said elongated hollow body to said second coupling within said second pair of recesses.
24. The method of claim 23 , wherein said stiffening member has a predetermined length by severing a portion forming said stiffening member from an elongated stiffening member of greater length.
25. The method of claim 23 , further including forming said first and second ends of said hollow member to conform to the shape of a corresponding one of said outer walls of said first and second couplings.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/779,096 US20040262475A1 (en) | 2002-02-01 | 2004-02-13 | Modular forearm extension |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/061,880 US6736364B2 (en) | 2002-02-01 | 2002-02-01 | Modular mounting arm |
US10/779,096 US20040262475A1 (en) | 2002-02-01 | 2004-02-13 | Modular forearm extension |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/061,880 Continuation-In-Part US6736364B2 (en) | 2002-02-01 | 2002-02-01 | Modular mounting arm |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20040262475A1 true US20040262475A1 (en) | 2004-12-30 |
Family
ID=27658513
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/061,880 Expired - Lifetime US6736364B2 (en) | 2002-02-01 | 2002-02-01 | Modular mounting arm |
US10/779,096 Abandoned US20040262475A1 (en) | 2002-02-01 | 2004-02-13 | Modular forearm extension |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/061,880 Expired - Lifetime US6736364B2 (en) | 2002-02-01 | 2002-02-01 | Modular mounting arm |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US6736364B2 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003202937A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2003066998A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10400946B2 (en) | 2010-07-08 | 2019-09-03 | Southco, Inc. | Display support apparatus |
US11131423B2 (en) | 2016-03-07 | 2021-09-28 | Southco, Inc. | Display support arm assembly for mounting a display |
Families Citing this family (38)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6409134B1 (en) * | 1999-06-07 | 2002-06-25 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system |
US6609691B2 (en) * | 1999-06-07 | 2003-08-26 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system |
DE10300620B4 (en) * | 2002-05-18 | 2017-04-13 | Carl Zeiss Meditec Ag | Carrier device for a medical-optical device |
US20040262474A1 (en) * | 2003-04-22 | 2004-12-30 | Boks Michael J. | Flat screen monitor support system |
US6996875B2 (en) * | 2004-01-06 | 2006-02-14 | Door & Window Hardware Co. | Securing device for a window |
TWM256459U (en) * | 2004-04-19 | 2005-02-01 | Chin-Ruei Hung | Support arm for suspension type display |
EP1942299B1 (en) * | 2004-06-10 | 2010-09-22 | Humanscale Corporation | Mechanism for positional adjustment of an attached device |
US7677515B2 (en) | 2004-07-07 | 2010-03-16 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Arm apparatus with reinforcement |
US7540457B2 (en) * | 2005-05-31 | 2009-06-02 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Angled mini arm having a clevis assembly |
US7389965B2 (en) * | 2005-05-31 | 2008-06-24 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Tapered mini arm having an anti-loosening mechanism |
US8794579B2 (en) | 2005-06-03 | 2014-08-05 | Steelcase, Inc. | Support arm assembly |
US20070221794A1 (en) * | 2006-03-21 | 2007-09-27 | Chin-Chu Li | Mounting arm |
US7997211B2 (en) * | 2006-06-12 | 2011-08-16 | Steelcase Inc. | Wall mounted workstation |
US7338022B2 (en) * | 2006-08-04 | 2008-03-04 | Chin-Jui Hung | Support apparatus for suspending a monitor |
CA2583524A1 (en) * | 2007-03-28 | 2008-09-28 | Robert J. Cases | Universal holder system |
US8104850B2 (en) | 2007-05-30 | 2012-01-31 | Steelcase Inc. | Furniture storage unit |
DE102007048598A1 (en) * | 2007-10-10 | 2009-04-23 | Ondal Industrietechnik Gmbh | suspension |
US8469323B1 (en) * | 2008-04-21 | 2013-06-25 | Yani Deros | Modular monitor support assembly |
US8197154B2 (en) * | 2008-10-31 | 2012-06-12 | Midmark Corporation | Articulating joint for dental or medical lights |
WO2010059863A1 (en) * | 2008-11-19 | 2010-05-27 | Hoffman Enclosures, Inc. | Vertical motion pendant arm |
US8439319B2 (en) * | 2009-05-19 | 2013-05-14 | Denis Page | Standalone, mobile and adjustable stand and tray |
US20110147546A1 (en) * | 2009-12-23 | 2011-06-23 | Humanscale Corporation | Adjustable Display Arm |
US20110149510A1 (en) * | 2009-12-23 | 2011-06-23 | Humanscale Corporation | Adjustable Laptop Holder |
US9228696B2 (en) * | 2011-03-18 | 2016-01-05 | GCX Corporation | Variable height arm structures, systems, and methods |
US20140003069A1 (en) * | 2012-06-29 | 2014-01-02 | Sonneman-A Way Of Light | Articulated lamp assembly with imbeded compression springs |
US9657889B1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2017-05-23 | Humanscale Corporation | Adjustable support arm |
US8955905B2 (en) * | 2013-06-07 | 2015-02-17 | Neutral Posture, Inc. | Seating assembly having a seat-mounted attachment assembly for adjustable extension arm |
US9103543B2 (en) | 2013-07-11 | 2015-08-11 | Christopher Marquardt | Lamp tablet docking station |
TWM523265U (en) * | 2016-01-04 | 2016-06-01 | Chen Source Inc | Monitor support rack |
USD842306S1 (en) | 2016-03-04 | 2019-03-05 | Southco, Inc. | Articulating arm |
US10851938B2 (en) | 2018-04-02 | 2020-12-01 | Humanscale Corporation | Adjustable support arm |
US11241072B2 (en) | 2018-04-13 | 2022-02-08 | Jean LaPoint | Universal bathroom holder |
US11547522B2 (en) * | 2019-01-31 | 2023-01-10 | American Sterilizer Company | Knuckle joint assembly for medical device support system |
USD898555S1 (en) | 2019-04-12 | 2020-10-13 | Jean LaPoint | Bathroom holder |
CN114867963A (en) | 2019-11-27 | 2022-08-05 | 德康有限公司 | Display mounting device for posture correction and display mounting control system using same |
US11543073B2 (en) * | 2021-03-10 | 2023-01-03 | Ningbo Tuotuo River Design Company | Monitor arm with decorative lighting |
USD962903S1 (en) * | 2021-04-29 | 2022-09-06 | Ningbo Tuotuo River Design Company | Microphone stand |
US20230320001A1 (en) * | 2022-03-30 | 2023-10-05 | Lenovo (United States) Inc. | Interlocking Display |
Citations (38)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US999283A (en) * | 1911-05-06 | 1911-08-01 | Otis C White | Adjustable bracket. |
US2151877A (en) * | 1935-11-20 | 1939-03-28 | Clinton L Walker | Display apparatus |
US2731223A (en) * | 1955-03-01 | 1956-01-17 | Theodore A Riccio | Tree holder |
US3131900A (en) * | 1962-05-15 | 1964-05-05 | Robert J Anderson | Self leveling paint can holder attachment for ladders |
US3424419A (en) * | 1967-08-03 | 1969-01-28 | Sheldon K Siegel | Block holder |
US3489383A (en) * | 1968-03-15 | 1970-01-13 | William E Anson | Swivel support for a mannequin head |
US3905311A (en) * | 1974-04-26 | 1975-09-16 | Joerns Furniture Co | Vertically adjustable overbed table |
US4208028A (en) * | 1974-09-16 | 1980-06-17 | Garrett Brown | Support apparatus |
US4266747A (en) * | 1979-07-26 | 1981-05-12 | Positioning Devices, Incorporated | Equipoised articulated support arm |
US4494177A (en) * | 1983-04-20 | 1985-01-15 | Plan Hold Corp. | Articulated task lamp |
US4687167A (en) * | 1985-10-23 | 1987-08-18 | Skalka Gerald P | Multi-position computer support |
US4695024A (en) * | 1986-05-09 | 1987-09-22 | Attain, Inc. | Test system manipulator arm |
US4708312A (en) * | 1985-10-23 | 1987-11-24 | Ncr Corporation | Extensible height-adjustable swivel arm for supporting a display or the like |
US4768744A (en) * | 1986-08-27 | 1988-09-06 | Richard Leeds | Apparatus for supporting a load in a dynamically balanced condition |
US4770384A (en) * | 1986-07-28 | 1988-09-13 | Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. | Movable stand |
US4821159A (en) * | 1988-01-29 | 1989-04-11 | Pike Machine Products Co. | Overlapped lamp swivel for after assembly finishing |
US4852500A (en) * | 1987-03-18 | 1989-08-01 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Integrated computer implement work area |
US4852842A (en) * | 1987-09-24 | 1989-08-01 | Lucasey Manufacturing Company, Inc. | Appliance support apparatus |
US5123621A (en) * | 1990-03-07 | 1992-06-23 | First National Investments Limited | Swivel arm for a supporting plate, in particular a monitor supporting plate |
US5174531A (en) * | 1991-07-26 | 1992-12-29 | Farideh Perakis | Hair dryer holder apparatus |
US5390685A (en) * | 1993-03-26 | 1995-02-21 | Mccoy; Jens | Collapsible shelter |
US5437427A (en) * | 1994-01-25 | 1995-08-01 | Johnson; Peter D. | Binocular mounting assembly for astronomical observations |
US5584596A (en) * | 1994-06-10 | 1996-12-17 | Knoll, Inc. | Caliper control for universal support arm |
US5628482A (en) * | 1995-08-10 | 1997-05-13 | Rubbermaid Office Products Inc. | Keyboard storage device assembly |
US5642819A (en) * | 1996-03-13 | 1997-07-01 | Ronia; Ernesto | Christmas stocking holder |
US5664750A (en) * | 1995-11-14 | 1997-09-09 | Cohen; Edward | Camera Mount |
US5743503A (en) * | 1996-03-08 | 1998-04-28 | Ergotron, Inc. | Computer suspension system |
US5799917A (en) * | 1996-12-17 | 1998-09-01 | Li; Chin-Chu | Adjustable supporting bracket |
US6012693A (en) * | 1998-02-19 | 2000-01-11 | Ergotron, Inc. | Multi-function display mounting system |
US6076785A (en) * | 1996-02-29 | 2000-06-20 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Ergonomic sit/stand keyboard support mechanism |
US6179263B1 (en) * | 1997-10-14 | 2001-01-30 | Rosen Products Llc | Stowable support apparatus |
US6257538B1 (en) * | 1998-11-13 | 2001-07-10 | Weber Knapp Company | Keyboard mounting mechanism |
US6273383B1 (en) * | 1999-09-27 | 2001-08-14 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices, and method of making and using the same |
US6409134B1 (en) * | 1999-06-07 | 2002-06-25 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system |
US6478272B1 (en) * | 2000-10-26 | 2002-11-12 | Jordan Outdoor Enterprises Ltd | Portable folding hanger |
US6478274B1 (en) * | 1999-05-10 | 2002-11-12 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices |
US6672553B1 (en) * | 2002-08-26 | 2004-01-06 | Chin-Chih Lin | Suspension arm |
US6695270B1 (en) * | 2002-08-15 | 2004-02-24 | Ole Falk Smed | Flat panel display system |
-
2002
- 2002-02-01 US US10/061,880 patent/US6736364B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2003
- 2003-01-09 WO PCT/US2003/000638 patent/WO2003066998A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2003-01-09 AU AU2003202937A patent/AU2003202937A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2004
- 2004-02-13 US US10/779,096 patent/US20040262475A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (38)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US999283A (en) * | 1911-05-06 | 1911-08-01 | Otis C White | Adjustable bracket. |
US2151877A (en) * | 1935-11-20 | 1939-03-28 | Clinton L Walker | Display apparatus |
US2731223A (en) * | 1955-03-01 | 1956-01-17 | Theodore A Riccio | Tree holder |
US3131900A (en) * | 1962-05-15 | 1964-05-05 | Robert J Anderson | Self leveling paint can holder attachment for ladders |
US3424419A (en) * | 1967-08-03 | 1969-01-28 | Sheldon K Siegel | Block holder |
US3489383A (en) * | 1968-03-15 | 1970-01-13 | William E Anson | Swivel support for a mannequin head |
US3905311A (en) * | 1974-04-26 | 1975-09-16 | Joerns Furniture Co | Vertically adjustable overbed table |
US4208028A (en) * | 1974-09-16 | 1980-06-17 | Garrett Brown | Support apparatus |
US4266747A (en) * | 1979-07-26 | 1981-05-12 | Positioning Devices, Incorporated | Equipoised articulated support arm |
US4494177A (en) * | 1983-04-20 | 1985-01-15 | Plan Hold Corp. | Articulated task lamp |
US4687167A (en) * | 1985-10-23 | 1987-08-18 | Skalka Gerald P | Multi-position computer support |
US4708312A (en) * | 1985-10-23 | 1987-11-24 | Ncr Corporation | Extensible height-adjustable swivel arm for supporting a display or the like |
US4695024A (en) * | 1986-05-09 | 1987-09-22 | Attain, Inc. | Test system manipulator arm |
US4770384A (en) * | 1986-07-28 | 1988-09-13 | Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. | Movable stand |
US4768744A (en) * | 1986-08-27 | 1988-09-06 | Richard Leeds | Apparatus for supporting a load in a dynamically balanced condition |
US4852500A (en) * | 1987-03-18 | 1989-08-01 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Integrated computer implement work area |
US4852842A (en) * | 1987-09-24 | 1989-08-01 | Lucasey Manufacturing Company, Inc. | Appliance support apparatus |
US4821159A (en) * | 1988-01-29 | 1989-04-11 | Pike Machine Products Co. | Overlapped lamp swivel for after assembly finishing |
US5123621A (en) * | 1990-03-07 | 1992-06-23 | First National Investments Limited | Swivel arm for a supporting plate, in particular a monitor supporting plate |
US5174531A (en) * | 1991-07-26 | 1992-12-29 | Farideh Perakis | Hair dryer holder apparatus |
US5390685A (en) * | 1993-03-26 | 1995-02-21 | Mccoy; Jens | Collapsible shelter |
US5437427A (en) * | 1994-01-25 | 1995-08-01 | Johnson; Peter D. | Binocular mounting assembly for astronomical observations |
US5584596A (en) * | 1994-06-10 | 1996-12-17 | Knoll, Inc. | Caliper control for universal support arm |
US5628482A (en) * | 1995-08-10 | 1997-05-13 | Rubbermaid Office Products Inc. | Keyboard storage device assembly |
US5664750A (en) * | 1995-11-14 | 1997-09-09 | Cohen; Edward | Camera Mount |
US6076785A (en) * | 1996-02-29 | 2000-06-20 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Ergonomic sit/stand keyboard support mechanism |
US5743503A (en) * | 1996-03-08 | 1998-04-28 | Ergotron, Inc. | Computer suspension system |
US5642819A (en) * | 1996-03-13 | 1997-07-01 | Ronia; Ernesto | Christmas stocking holder |
US5799917A (en) * | 1996-12-17 | 1998-09-01 | Li; Chin-Chu | Adjustable supporting bracket |
US6179263B1 (en) * | 1997-10-14 | 2001-01-30 | Rosen Products Llc | Stowable support apparatus |
US6012693A (en) * | 1998-02-19 | 2000-01-11 | Ergotron, Inc. | Multi-function display mounting system |
US6257538B1 (en) * | 1998-11-13 | 2001-07-10 | Weber Knapp Company | Keyboard mounting mechanism |
US6478274B1 (en) * | 1999-05-10 | 2002-11-12 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices |
US6409134B1 (en) * | 1999-06-07 | 2002-06-25 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system |
US6273383B1 (en) * | 1999-09-27 | 2001-08-14 | Innovative Office Products, Inc. | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices, and method of making and using the same |
US6478272B1 (en) * | 2000-10-26 | 2002-11-12 | Jordan Outdoor Enterprises Ltd | Portable folding hanger |
US6695270B1 (en) * | 2002-08-15 | 2004-02-24 | Ole Falk Smed | Flat panel display system |
US6672553B1 (en) * | 2002-08-26 | 2004-01-06 | Chin-Chih Lin | Suspension arm |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10400946B2 (en) | 2010-07-08 | 2019-09-03 | Southco, Inc. | Display support apparatus |
US11131423B2 (en) | 2016-03-07 | 2021-09-28 | Southco, Inc. | Display support arm assembly for mounting a display |
US11506329B2 (en) | 2016-03-07 | 2022-11-22 | Southco, Inc. | Display support arm assembly for mounting a display |
US11536416B2 (en) | 2016-03-07 | 2022-12-27 | Southco, Inc. | Display support arm assembly for mounting a display |
US11543070B2 (en) | 2016-03-07 | 2023-01-03 | Southco, Inc. | Display support arm assembly for mounting a display |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20030146359A1 (en) | 2003-08-07 |
US6736364B2 (en) | 2004-05-18 |
AU2003202937A1 (en) | 2003-09-02 |
WO2003066998A1 (en) | 2003-08-14 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20040262475A1 (en) | Modular forearm extension | |
US6609691B2 (en) | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system | |
US6619606B2 (en) | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system | |
US6409134B1 (en) | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system | |
US7677516B2 (en) | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices | |
US7540457B2 (en) | Angled mini arm having a clevis assembly | |
AU2003259611B2 (en) | Channel device | |
CA2491175C (en) | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system | |
AU765351B2 (en) | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system | |
AU2003227299B2 (en) | Arm apparatus for mounting electronic devices with cable management system | |
JP4713744B2 (en) | Electronic device attachment arm device |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: INNOVATIVE OFFICE PRODUCTS, INC., PENNSYLVANIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ODDSEN JR., ODD N.;REEL/FRAME:015062/0938 Effective date: 20040603 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |