Computer components adjustable between storage and use configurations

Abstract

A computer arrangement with an extended configuration and a retracted configuration. The computer arrangement can include an enclosure, and a support arm can be extendably and retractably retained relative to the enclosure. A monitor and a keyboard can be retained relative to the support arm. The keyboard can be removably coupled to a support unit, and there can be an electrical association between the keyboard, the support unit, and a further computer component, such as a power supply, a memory drive, and a central processing unit. The monitor and keyboard can be components of a laptop computer, and the support unit can comprise a cradle. The support unit can be manually or automatically pivotable between storage and use configurations.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates generally to electronic systems and methods. More particularly, disclosed and protected herein are arrangements and methods for enabling an adjustment of articles, such as computer components, between storage and use configurations. Also disclosed and protected are computer components adapted for such adjustment arrangements and methods. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Computers have become an integral part of our business and personal lives. The presence of a computer monitor, a keyboard, a laptop, or other computer component has come to be seen as a necessary evil for the accomplishment of one's daily tasks. With computer components inherently come wires that further clutter work surfaces. Many computer components, particularly laptops and computer monitors, have achieved markedly reduced size. Nonetheless, when not in use, they remain as obstacles to the full usage of a work surface and contribute to a utilitarian and...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an arrangement for adjusting a computer component between storage and use configurations. The arrangement includes a support member, such as a support arm, that can hold a computer monitor and a computer keyboard. The keyboard can be removable and replaceable or integrated into the support unit. The support unit can also hold a laptop computer. The computer components, such as a power supply, memory drive, or central processing unit, can be electrically associated with the support unit. The invention allows for easy adjustment and versatility in using the computer components."

Problems solved by technology

The presence of a computer monitor, a keyboard, a laptop, or other computer component has come to be seen as a necessary evil for the accomplishment of one's daily tasks.

With computer components inherently come wires that further clutter work surfaces.

Nonetheless, when not in use, they remain as obstacles to the full usage of a work surface and contribute to a utilitarian and often displeasing appearance of the work surface and the office in general.

Further, continuous exposure leaves computer components vulnerable not only to environmental conditions but also to tampering and theft, particularly as the components become smaller, lighter, and more portable.

While these and further disclosures have contributed usefully to the state of the art, the proposed solutions of the prior art have proven to bulky and inelegant, of limited effectiveness and efficiency, and relatively complex in structure and operation.

Additionally, it will be noted that prior art computer mechanisms and furniture historically have been ill equipped to accommodate one another in an adjustable arrangement.

Still further, traditional computer components have proven to be poorly adapted to being rendered adjustable between a first configuration for unobtrusive storage and a second, usage configuration.

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