Formable Stand System

Abstract

A formable support stand system for portable electronic devices that provides a manner to support a device such as a tablet computer in a variety of orientations from a supporting surface such as a tray or table. The embodiments comprise a flex-rod prop, and a fastener for attaching the prop to an electronic device, such that the flex rod resists deformation, but can be adjusted into a wide variety of positions. The stand system is adapted for use with devices used by those with limited or erratic motor control, in order to allow positioning of the screen face of a tablet computer in a chosen orientation relative to a support tray on a wheelchair, for instance. The stand system comprises a flexible, positionable flex-rod, an anti-skid sleeve and is removeably attached to the electronic device by means of rod clamp system. The formable support system is also provided as a kit for retrofitting existing devices.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 60 / 967,660, filed Sep. 6, 2007STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH[0002]Not applicable.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]There exists a continuing need for supports for electronic and other devices that provide a balance between rigidity, flexibility, adjustability and security. Support systems have been available for many years adapted for use with portable computer such as laptop computers, viewing screen and the like. The existing stands are almost all constructed of rigid materials that are adjusted by cams or the like into a variety of positions.[0004]Handheld devices that provides a means for supporting or carrying the device are well known and include, for instance components such as carrying straps for radios or tape players, support tripods for cameras, belt and pocket clips for music players such as MP3 players or Apple iPods™, along with various supports...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0017]A further embodiment is a stand system is adapted for use with devices used by those with limited or erratic motor control, in order to allow positioning of the screen face of a tablet computer in a chosen orientation relative to a support tray on a wheelchair, for instance. The stand is made of a flexible, positionable material, such as a metal flex-rod of about ¼ inch in diameter and has an anti-skid sleeve for reducing slippage of the stand on a surface, thereby increasing the force needed to slide the stand. The flex rod is removeably attached to the electronic device by means of rod clamp, with set screw limiting the slip of the flex rod through the clamp. Other objects of the disclosure of embodiments will, in part, be obvious and will, in part, appear hereinafter.

[0018]A further embodiment is a support system for positioning a device at a desired location comprising: an elongated flex-rod body of resilient material, said flex-rod body being capable of being positioned into a variety of differing shapes, one or more attachable flex-rod body clamps for affixing the elongated flex-rod body to the device, whereby the support system provides for positioning the device in relation to a surface. The support system may further comprise a resilient sheath of non-slip material over a portion of the flex-rod body member, therefore providing for enhancement of the friction between the support system and a supporting surface.

[0024]Finally, another embodiment is for a method for providing an adaptive stand for an electronic device used by those requiring rehabilitation services comprising a.) an elongated flex-rod body of resilient material, said flex-rod body being capable of being positioned into a variety of differing shapes; b.) one or more attachable flex-rod body clamps for affixing the elongated flex-rod body to the device; c.) whereby the flex-rod body is of sufficient resilience to support the device with stability sufficient to utilize a touch screen without altering the position of said device; and d.) the flex-rod body is of sufficient flexibility so as to be positionable by an individual with limited manual dexterity.

Problems solved by technology

All current support systems and carry handles are limited by their ability to respond to use in only a limited number of positions and or to a limited range of forces.

Provision for a support system most useful to the user of average ability in a favorable environment limits the utility of support systems, and the device itself by those using the device in more challenging environments, such as, for instance, a factory floor, a sales floor, field work, waiting areas, on forklifts or with wheelchairs.

Moreover, those with differing physical and mental abilities often find existing support systems are inadequate to serve their needs for a more adaptable and flexible support and or carrying system.

Moreover, the device often cannot be positioned on a surface for easy viewing by and interaction with the user.

This stand is apparently not positionable and is rigid.

In summary, none of the existing support or carrying systems for electronic devices provide the full range of positions that may at times be desired, nor do the existing support systems provide a workable combination of resilience and rigidity desired by users of these devices.

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