US20080168930A1 - Privacy Protecting Wall-Mounted Workstation - Google Patents
Privacy Protecting Wall-Mounted Workstation Download PDFInfo
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- US20080168930A1 US20080168930A1 US11/622,317 US62231707A US2008168930A1 US 20080168930 A1 US20080168930 A1 US 20080168930A1 US 62231707 A US62231707 A US 62231707A US 2008168930 A1 US2008168930 A1 US 2008168930A1
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- Prior art keywords
- input device
- tray
- workstation
- switch
- device tray
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 8
- 230000006266 hibernation Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000036541 health Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylic acid group Chemical group C(C=C)(=O)O NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006399 behavior Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012780 transparent material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B21/00—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards
- A47B21/03—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards with substantially horizontally extensible or adjustable parts other than drawers, e.g. leaves
- A47B21/0314—Platforms for supporting office equipment
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B81/00—Cabinets or racks specially adapted for other particular purposes, e.g. for storing guns or skis
- A47B81/06—Furniture aspects of radio, television, gramophone, or record cabinets
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B2200/00—General construction of tables or desks
- A47B2200/0066—Workstations
- A47B2200/0067—Enclosure type with computer
- A47B2200/0069—Enclosure type with computer with rack
Definitions
- the present invention relates to computer workstations and, more particularly, to a wall-mounted computer workstation to protect against unauthorized viewing of confidential information displayed on a computer monitor.
- Health care providers are mandated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to take reasonable steps to ensure the confidentiality of patient information. This task becomes especially daunting in the hectic and fast-paced environment of many hospitals and medical clinics. Increasingly, nurses and other medical practitioners enter patient information directly into a computer terminal located in the hallway outside examination rooms or at some other centralized location easily accessible to the public. As a result, other patients and third parties will come into close proximity with these computers and be able to view any confidential information displayed on the monitors.
- HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
- One such technology uses proximity sensors located at the site of the workstation.
- Software installed on the computer triggers the computer to enter a hibernation mode as described above when the proximity sensor indicates the user has moved away from the workstation.
- the computer is again brought out of hibernation only by entering a confidential password.
- This method was suffers in that an unauthorized party could gain access if that person quickly moved in front of the workstation after the authorized user walked away. Such behavior could easily go undetected in the hustle and bustle of a busy medical treatment facility.
- this method requires loading additional software onto the computer to support the proximity sensor. Loading new software onto the computer can be difficult to integrate with existing software and can slow down the overall performance of the computer.
- Another method used to prevent the unauthorized viewing of workstation monitors entails the employ of RFID technology included on employee identification badges or some other accessory.
- RFID technology included on employee identification badges or some other accessory.
- special software loaded onto the computer causes the computer to go into or out of hibernation.
- This method also has several significant shortcomings. If the RFID badges are lost or stolen, the person in possession of the badge has unfettered access to confidential patient information until the owner of the badge reports the loss. Further, someone carrying a RFID badge could inadvertently trigger the sensor, turning the monitor on, as they walked by the sensor or stood in close proximity to it. This could provide unauthorized access to confidential information for a party who was waiting to take advantage of such an occurrence. Additionally, this method again requires the loading of special software onto the workstation computer potentially causing problems with existing software loaded on the computer and generating added expense for the administration of this special software.
- a workstation is provided with a moveable input device tray and a switch for automatically turning the computer monitor off when the input device tray is moved from the operational position.
- the switch also turns the monitor back on when the input device tray is moved back into the operational position.
- the workstation includes an input device tray for supporting input devices for the computer.
- the input device tray is movable and has an operational position where the input devices are situated suitably for use by an operator and a closed position for storing the input devices when not in use.
- the input device tray accommodates a keyboard and mouse, but in alternative embodiments, the input device tray may be adapted to support any type of input device including electronic tablets for instance.
- the input device tray when the input device tray is moved from the operational position, the input device tray actuates a switch that eliminates the supply of power to the computer monitor.
- the workstation includes a monitor outlet and this action eliminates the supply of power to the monitor outlet.
- This configuration causes a computer monitor plugged into the switched monitor outlet to be turned off contemporaneously with the input device tray being moved from the operational position, thereby preventing unauthorized parties from viewing the monitor after the input device tray is closed.
- the input device tray may be biased away from the operational position so that it automatically moves into the closed position in the absence of user interaction.
- the tray may be spring-loaded or use a lift-assist gas cylinder to bias the tray in the closed position.
- biasing devices such as a spring or gas cylinder, may be used to offset the weight of the tray and keyboard without providing sufficient force to automatically move the tray to the closed position.
- the present invention provides a workstation that inhibits unauthorized party's access to confidential information through a computer located in a public area.
- the screen is immediately turned-off when an authorized user finishes using the computer and the input device tray is moved from the operational position leaving no opportunity for unlawful access to confidential medical information.
- unlawful access is curtailed without the need to install additional software on the computer or to issue RFID badges to all employees.
- additional security may be provided by lockably enclosing the computer components within the desk housing.
- security is provided without specifically turning the monitor on or off.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the workstation in the closed position accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the workstation in the operational position with a portion broken away to show the power supply source and the switched monitor outlet.
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of Area III of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 4 is a perspective of a portion of the input device tray about to move to the closed position.
- FIG. 5 is an electrical schematic diagram of the workstation.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of the switch, monitor outlet, and workstation plug.
- a privacy protecting computer workstation in accordance with an embodiment is illustrated in the drawings and generally designated 10 .
- the computer workstation 10 is configured to receive a computer monitor 28 and an input device, such as keyboard 18 or mouse 20 .
- the workstation 10 generally includes a monitor outlet 16 for the computer monitor 28 , a switch 12 for controlling the supply of power to the monitor outlet 16 , and a movable input device tray 14 capable of actuating the switch 12 .
- the input device tray 14 is movable between an operational position and a closed position. In use, movement of the input device tray 14 from the operational position actuates the switch 12 to eliminate the supply of power to the monitor outlet 16 , and consequently to the monitor 28 .
- the computer workstation 10 automatically turns off the monitor 28 when the input device tray 14 is moved from the operational position.
- the present invention is described in connection with a specific computer workstation housing.
- the present invention is well suited for use in essentially any workstation in which movement of an input device support can be used to control the supply of power to the computer monitor.
- the workstation 10 includes an input device tray 14 .
- the input device tray 14 is configured to support at least one computer input device.
- the input device tray 14 is configured to support both a keyboard 18 and a mouse 20 , but the input device tray 14 could alternatively support essentially any type of input device, such as a digitizing pad or trackball.
- the illustrated input device tray 14 is generally planar, but the tray's design and configuration may be varied as desired to support essentially any input device.
- the input device tray 14 has an operational position such that when the tray 14 is in the operational position, the input devices 18 , 20 supported on the tray 14 are oriented for operation by a workstation 10 user.
- the input device tray 14 is height adjustable within the operational position to accommodate workstation 10 users of various stature.
- the input device tray 14 is biased away from the operational position so that when pressure is removed from the input device tray 14 by the user, the tray 14 automatically moves to the closed position.
- Such automation may be accomplished by any device providing the desired performance.
- a lift-assist gas cylinder may be connected to both the workstation housing and the tray 14 biasing the tray 14 to the closed position.
- biasing devices such as a spring or gas cylinder, may be used to offset the weight of the tray 14 and/or input devices 18 and 20 without providing enough force to automatically move the tray 14 into the closed position.
- the input device tray 14 may also be lockable preventing the tray 14 from being opened to the operational position by unauthorized users.
- the workstation 10 includes a switch 12 for controlling the supply of power to the computer monitor 28 .
- the switch 12 of the illustrated embodiment is mounted to the workstation 10 at a point where the input device tray 14 abuts the desk housing 26 when the input device tray 14 is in the closed position.
- the switch 12 may be located in any position on the workstation 10 or the input device tray 14 where the switch 12 will be actuated when the input device tray 14 is moved between the operational position and the closed position.
- the switch 12 may be located essentially anywhere along the path of the input device tray 14 .
- the switch 12 may be integrated into or operably connected with the hinge 40 of the input device tray 14 . In embodiments utilizing a gas cylinder (not shown), the switch 12 may be incorporated into the gas cylinder.
- the monitor outlet 16 is configured to receive power from a standard wall outlet, such as a conventional 110 volt wall outlet (not shown).
- the switch 12 is connected between the wall outlet (not shown) and the monitor outlet 16 so that actuation of the switch 12 controls the flow of power to the monitor outlet 16 .
- the switch 12 may be essentially any type of switch capable of selectively controlling the supply of wall power to the monitor outlet 16 , including a rocker switch, toggle switch, push-button switch or infrared switch.
- a biased, push-button switch 12 is used.
- the illustrated switch 12 is biased in the closed or “on” position so that when the input device tray 14 is moved from the closed position the switch 12 is automatically closed and power is restored to the monitor outlet 16 .
- movement of the input device tray 14 may be used only to turn the monitor off.
- manual actuation of the switch may be used to turn the monitor 28 back on when desired.
- the workstation 10 includes a monitor outlet 16 for supplying power to the computer monitor 28 .
- the monitor outlet 16 is a generally conventional electrical outlet configured for use with standard 110 volt AC power. Utilization of a conventional outlet affords straightforward connection of the monitor 28 to the monitor outlet 16 by simply inserting the monitor's 28 electrical plug 29 into the electrical receptacle 24 of the monitor outlet 16 .
- the monitor outlet 16 is located within the workstation 10 where it is conveniently positioned to receive the electrical plug 29 of the monitor 28 (See broken-away portion in FIG. 2 ).
- the monitor outlet 16 may be positioned in alternative locations as desired.
- the monitor outlet 16 may be replaced by other apparatus capable of supplying power to the monitor 28 .
- the monitor 28 could be hard wired to the switch 12 .
- the monitor outlet 16 is connected to an external source of power, such as a wall outlet supplying 110 volt AC power.
- the monitor outlet 16 is connected to the external source of power using workstation plug 17 which is a generally conventional electrical plug for use with standard 110 volt AC power.
- the switch 12 is connected between an external source of power (such as a wall outlet) and the monitor outlet 16 so that actuation of the switch 12 controls the supply of power to the monitor outlet 16 .
- the monitor outlet 16 includes two electrical receptacles 24 , both of these receptacle's 24 power may be controlled by the operation of the switch 12 .
- This configuration would be useful, for example, if the workstation 10 utilized two monitors or otherwise included two separate components to turn off when the tray 14 is closed.
- the second receptacle 24 could be powered independently from the switch 12 . This configuration would be useful to receive the plug of a CPU used in the workstation so that the CPU is not shut down each time the switch 12 is actuated.
- the workstation 10 includes a desk housing 26 configured to enclose and/or support a computer system.
- the desk housing 26 is configured to house the various elements of a computer system, including a monitor 28 and CPU (not shown).
- the computer monitor 28 is fully enclosed and rests upon a central shelf behind a transparent protection window 30 .
- the window 30 can be fabricated from clear acrylic, glass or any other suitable transparent material.
- the CPU (not shown) is stored on an upper shelf located above the monitor 28 behind panel 42 .
- Panel 42 may be hinged and may include a lock, if desired.
- the input device tray 14 is located below the monitor shelf and is configured to swing up and down between the operational position (swung down) and the closed position (swung up).
- the input device tray 14 folds up into the desk housing 26 such that the tray 14 and any input device 18 and 20 stored on the tray 14 will be received into the desk housing 26 for storage.
- the input device tray 14 may also be lockable in the closed position providing additional security.
- the desk housing 26 can be fabricated of wood, plastic, metal or any other material (or combination of materials) providing suitable performance and the desired aesthetic.
- the desk housing 26 can be modified to accommodate various alternative computer configurations. If desired, the desk housing 26 may be configured such that the computer system rests on the desk housing 26 or the computer system may be enclosed by the desk housing 26 .
- the desk housing 26 is configured to mount to a wall or some other suitable mounting surface.
- the desk housing could be constructed to rest on the floor, a desk, a table or other suitable surface. If desired, the desk housing can be freestanding.
- the monitor 28 could be mounted to a wall or resting on some support surface with the input device tray 14 located in close proximity. In such a system, it may be desirable to locate the switch 12 on an external component, but the switch can be located essentially anywhere that provides the desired interaction with the input device tray 14 when the input device tray 14 is moved between the operational position and the closed position.
- the electrical power assembly 55 ′ of an alternative embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 6 .
- the electrical power assembly 55 ′ includes a push-button switch 12 ′ mounted within an electrical cord 25 .
- the electrical cord 25 ′ includes a workstation plug 17 ′ that can be inserted into a wall outlet (not shown) and a monitor outlet 16 ′ that can receive an electrical plug from the monitor 28 .
- the monitor outlet 17 ′ has a single electrical receptacle 24 ′.
- the switch 12 ′ may be a push-button switch or an alternative type of switch as described above.
- the switch 12 ′ is wired into a conventional extension cord.
- the switch 12 ′ may be mounted on the desk housing 26 or at another location where it will interact properly to actuate the monitor 28 as the input device tray 14 is moved.
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to computer workstations and, more particularly, to a wall-mounted computer workstation to protect against unauthorized viewing of confidential information displayed on a computer monitor.
- Health care providers are mandated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to take reasonable steps to ensure the confidentiality of patient information. This task becomes especially daunting in the hectic and fast-paced environment of many hospitals and medical clinics. Increasingly, nurses and other medical practitioners enter patient information directly into a computer terminal located in the hallway outside examination rooms or at some other centralized location easily accessible to the public. As a result, other patients and third parties will come into close proximity with these computers and be able to view any confidential information displayed on the monitors.
- Various methods have been utilized to prevent unauthorized parties from viewing computer screens after the medical practitioner has left the workstation. One of the simplest of such methods involves utilizing the basic hibernation mode included on most computers. After a specified period of inactivity, the computer either causes the monitor to go blank or display an innocuous screen saver containing no confidential information. The screen will only be restored to display access to the confidential information if a password is entered. One major failure of this method is that the confidential information remains on the screen for some period of time, unattended, after the practitioner has walked away. This creates a window of opportunity for an unauthorized party to gain access to confidential patient information.
- As a result, more sophisticated technology was developed to ensure only authorized users had access. One such technology uses proximity sensors located at the site of the workstation. Software installed on the computer triggers the computer to enter a hibernation mode as described above when the proximity sensor indicates the user has moved away from the workstation. The computer is again brought out of hibernation only by entering a confidential password. This method was suffers in that an unauthorized party could gain access if that person quickly moved in front of the workstation after the authorized user walked away. Such behavior could easily go undetected in the hustle and bustle of a busy medical treatment facility. Additionally, this method requires loading additional software onto the computer to support the proximity sensor. Loading new software onto the computer can be difficult to integrate with existing software and can slow down the overall performance of the computer.
- Another method used to prevent the unauthorized viewing of workstation monitors entails the employ of RFID technology included on employee identification badges or some other accessory. When a badge comes in close proximity to a sensor mounted at the site of the workstation, special software loaded onto the computer causes the computer to go into or out of hibernation. This method also has several significant shortcomings. If the RFID badges are lost or stolen, the person in possession of the badge has unfettered access to confidential patient information until the owner of the badge reports the loss. Further, someone carrying a RFID badge could inadvertently trigger the sensor, turning the monitor on, as they walked by the sensor or stood in close proximity to it. This could provide unauthorized access to confidential information for a party who was waiting to take advantage of such an occurrence. Additionally, this method again requires the loading of special software onto the workstation computer potentially causing problems with existing software loaded on the computer and generating added expense for the administration of this special software.
- The aforementioned problems are overcome by the present invention wherein a workstation is provided with a moveable input device tray and a switch for automatically turning the computer monitor off when the input device tray is moved from the operational position. In one embodiment, the switch also turns the monitor back on when the input device tray is moved back into the operational position.
- In one embodiment, the workstation includes an input device tray for supporting input devices for the computer. The input device tray is movable and has an operational position where the input devices are situated suitably for use by an operator and a closed position for storing the input devices when not in use. In one embodiment, the input device tray accommodates a keyboard and mouse, but in alternative embodiments, the input device tray may be adapted to support any type of input device including electronic tablets for instance.
- In one embodiment, when the input device tray is moved from the operational position, the input device tray actuates a switch that eliminates the supply of power to the computer monitor. In one embodiment, the workstation includes a monitor outlet and this action eliminates the supply of power to the monitor outlet. This configuration causes a computer monitor plugged into the switched monitor outlet to be turned off contemporaneously with the input device tray being moved from the operational position, thereby preventing unauthorized parties from viewing the monitor after the input device tray is closed. The input device tray may be biased away from the operational position so that it automatically moves into the closed position in the absence of user interaction. For example, the tray may be spring-loaded or use a lift-assist gas cylinder to bias the tray in the closed position. Alternatively, biasing devices, such as a spring or gas cylinder, may be used to offset the weight of the tray and keyboard without providing sufficient force to automatically move the tray to the closed position.
- The present invention provides a workstation that inhibits unauthorized party's access to confidential information through a computer located in a public area. The screen is immediately turned-off when an authorized user finishes using the computer and the input device tray is moved from the operational position leaving no opportunity for unlawful access to confidential medical information. Furthermore, unlawful access is curtailed without the need to install additional software on the computer or to issue RFID badges to all employees. In an embodiment including a desk housing, additional security may be provided by lockably enclosing the computer components within the desk housing. In embodiments in which movement of the tray turns on and off the computer monitor, security is provided without specifically turning the monitor on or off.
- These and other objects, advantages, and features of the invention will be readily understood and appreciated by reference to the detailed description of the current embodiment and the drawings.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the workstation in the closed position accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the workstation in the operational position with a portion broken away to show the power supply source and the switched monitor outlet. -
FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of Area III ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4 is a perspective of a portion of the input device tray about to move to the closed position. -
FIG. 5 is an electrical schematic diagram of the workstation. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of the switch, monitor outlet, and workstation plug. - A privacy protecting computer workstation in accordance with an embodiment is illustrated in the drawings and generally designated 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the computer workstation 10 is configured to receive a computer monitor 28 and an input device, such as keyboard 18 or mouse 20. The workstation 10 generally includes a
monitor outlet 16 for the computer monitor 28, aswitch 12 for controlling the supply of power to themonitor outlet 16, and a movable input device tray 14 capable of actuating theswitch 12. Theinput device tray 14 is movable between an operational position and a closed position. In use, movement of the input device tray 14 from the operational position actuates theswitch 12 to eliminate the supply of power to themonitor outlet 16, and consequently to the monitor 28. As a result, the computer workstation 10 automatically turns off the monitor 28 when theinput device tray 14 is moved from the operational position. For purpose of disclosure, the present invention is described in connection with a specific computer workstation housing. The present invention is well suited for use in essentially any workstation in which movement of an input device support can be used to control the supply of power to the computer monitor. - As noted above, the workstation 10 includes an
input device tray 14. Theinput device tray 14 is configured to support at least one computer input device. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, theinput device tray 14 is configured to support both a keyboard 18 and a mouse 20, but theinput device tray 14 could alternatively support essentially any type of input device, such as a digitizing pad or trackball. The illustratedinput device tray 14 is generally planar, but the tray's design and configuration may be varied as desired to support essentially any input device. Theinput device tray 14 has an operational position such that when thetray 14 is in the operational position, the input devices 18, 20 supported on thetray 14 are oriented for operation by a workstation 10 user. In one embodiment, theinput device tray 14 is height adjustable within the operational position to accommodate workstation 10 users of various stature. In another embodiment, theinput device tray 14 is biased away from the operational position so that when pressure is removed from theinput device tray 14 by the user, thetray 14 automatically moves to the closed position. Such automation may be accomplished by any device providing the desired performance. For example, a lift-assist gas cylinder may be connected to both the workstation housing and thetray 14 biasing thetray 14 to the closed position. Alternatively, biasing devices, such as a spring or gas cylinder, may be used to offset the weight of thetray 14 and/or input devices 18 and 20 without providing enough force to automatically move thetray 14 into the closed position. In one embodiment, theinput device tray 14 may also be lockable preventing thetray 14 from being opened to the operational position by unauthorized users. - The workstation 10 includes a
switch 12 for controlling the supply of power to the computer monitor 28. As shown inFIG. 2 , theswitch 12 of the illustrated embodiment is mounted to the workstation 10 at a point where theinput device tray 14 abuts the desk housing 26 when theinput device tray 14 is in the closed position. Theswitch 12 may be located in any position on the workstation 10 or theinput device tray 14 where theswitch 12 will be actuated when theinput device tray 14 is moved between the operational position and the closed position. For example, theswitch 12 may be located essentially anywhere along the path of theinput device tray 14. As another example, theswitch 12 may be integrated into or operably connected with thehinge 40 of theinput device tray 14. In embodiments utilizing a gas cylinder (not shown), theswitch 12 may be incorporated into the gas cylinder. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
monitor outlet 16 is configured to receive power from a standard wall outlet, such as a conventional 110 volt wall outlet (not shown). In this embodiment, theswitch 12 is connected between the wall outlet (not shown) and themonitor outlet 16 so that actuation of theswitch 12 controls the flow of power to themonitor outlet 16. Theswitch 12 may be essentially any type of switch capable of selectively controlling the supply of wall power to themonitor outlet 16, including a rocker switch, toggle switch, push-button switch or infrared switch. In the illustrated embodiment, a biased, push-button switch 12 is used. The illustratedswitch 12 is biased in the closed or “on” position so that when theinput device tray 14 is moved from the closed position theswitch 12 is automatically closed and power is restored to themonitor outlet 16. Alternatively, movement of theinput device tray 14 may be used only to turn the monitor off. In this embodiment, manual actuation of the switch may be used to turn the monitor 28 back on when desired. - As noted above, the workstation 10 includes a
monitor outlet 16 for supplying power to the computer monitor 28. In the illustrated embodiment, themonitor outlet 16 is a generally conventional electrical outlet configured for use with standard 110 volt AC power. Utilization of a conventional outlet affords straightforward connection of the monitor 28 to themonitor outlet 16 by simply inserting the monitor's 28 electrical plug 29 into theelectrical receptacle 24 of themonitor outlet 16. In the illustrated embodiment, themonitor outlet 16 is located within the workstation 10 where it is conveniently positioned to receive the electrical plug 29 of the monitor 28 (See broken-away portion inFIG. 2 ). Themonitor outlet 16 may be positioned in alternative locations as desired. Themonitor outlet 16 may be replaced by other apparatus capable of supplying power to the monitor 28. For example, the monitor 28 could be hard wired to theswitch 12. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
monitor outlet 16 is connected to an external source of power, such as a wall outlet supplying 110 volt AC power. Themonitor outlet 16 is connected to the external source of power usingworkstation plug 17 which is a generally conventional electrical plug for use with standard 110 volt AC power. As noted above, theswitch 12 is connected between an external source of power (such as a wall outlet) and themonitor outlet 16 so that actuation of theswitch 12 controls the supply of power to themonitor outlet 16. In the illustrated embodiment, themonitor outlet 16 includes twoelectrical receptacles 24, both of these receptacle's 24 power may be controlled by the operation of theswitch 12. This configuration would be useful, for example, if the workstation 10 utilized two monitors or otherwise included two separate components to turn off when thetray 14 is closed. Alternatively, thesecond receptacle 24 could be powered independently from theswitch 12. This configuration would be useful to receive the plug of a CPU used in the workstation so that the CPU is not shut down each time theswitch 12 is actuated. - In the illustrated embodiment, the workstation 10 includes a desk housing 26 configured to enclose and/or support a computer system. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the desk housing 26 is configured to house the various elements of a computer system, including a monitor 28 and CPU (not shown). The computer monitor 28 is fully enclosed and rests upon a central shelf behind a transparent protection window 30. The window 30 can be fabricated from clear acrylic, glass or any other suitable transparent material. The CPU (not shown) is stored on an upper shelf located above the monitor 28 behind
panel 42.Panel 42 may be hinged and may include a lock, if desired. Theinput device tray 14 is located below the monitor shelf and is configured to swing up and down between the operational position (swung down) and the closed position (swung up). In the illustrated embodiment, theinput device tray 14 folds up into the desk housing 26 such that thetray 14 and any input device 18 and 20 stored on thetray 14 will be received into the desk housing 26 for storage. Theinput device tray 14 may also be lockable in the closed position providing additional security. The desk housing 26 can be fabricated of wood, plastic, metal or any other material (or combination of materials) providing suitable performance and the desired aesthetic. - As noted above, the present invention is well suited for use with workstations of a wide variety of shapes and styles. The desk housing 26 can be modified to accommodate various alternative computer configurations. If desired, the desk housing 26 may be configured such that the computer system rests on the desk housing 26 or the computer system may be enclosed by the desk housing 26.
- In the illustrated embodiment, the desk housing 26 is configured to mount to a wall or some other suitable mounting surface. Alternatively, the desk housing could be constructed to rest on the floor, a desk, a table or other suitable surface. If desired, the desk housing can be freestanding. In an alternative embodiment not utilizing a full desk housing, the monitor 28 could be mounted to a wall or resting on some support surface with the
input device tray 14 located in close proximity. In such a system, it may be desirable to locate theswitch 12 on an external component, but the switch can be located essentially anywhere that provides the desired interaction with theinput device tray 14 when theinput device tray 14 is moved between the operational position and the closed position. - The electrical power assembly 55′ of an alternative embodiment is illustrated in
FIG. 6 . In this embodiment, the electrical power assembly 55′ includes a push-button switch 12′ mounted within an electrical cord 25.′ Theelectrical cord 25′ includes aworkstation plug 17′ that can be inserted into a wall outlet (not shown) and amonitor outlet 16′ that can receive an electrical plug from the monitor 28. In this embodiment, themonitor outlet 17′ has a singleelectrical receptacle 24′. Theswitch 12′ may be a push-button switch or an alternative type of switch as described above. In one embodiment, theswitch 12′ is wired into a conventional extension cord. Theswitch 12′ may be mounted on the desk housing 26 or at another location where it will interact properly to actuate the monitor 28 as theinput device tray 14 is moved. - The above description is that of the current embodiment of the invention. Various alterations and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and broader aspects of the invention as defined in the appended claims, which are to be interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law including the doctrine of equivalents. Any reference to claim elements in the singular, for example, using the articles “a,” “an,” “the” or “said,” is not to be construed as limiting the element to the singular.
Claims (17)
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US11/622,317 US20080168930A1 (en) | 2007-01-11 | 2007-01-11 | Privacy Protecting Wall-Mounted Workstation |
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US11/622,317 US20080168930A1 (en) | 2007-01-11 | 2007-01-11 | Privacy Protecting Wall-Mounted Workstation |
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US20080168930A1 true US20080168930A1 (en) | 2008-07-17 |
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US11/622,317 Abandoned US20080168930A1 (en) | 2007-01-11 | 2007-01-11 | Privacy Protecting Wall-Mounted Workstation |
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US20100053875A1 (en) * | 2008-09-01 | 2010-03-04 | Sony Corporation | Information processing apparatus and electronic apparatus system |
US20100148647A1 (en) * | 2008-12-11 | 2010-06-17 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Wall work station |
US20110110026A1 (en) * | 2009-11-09 | 2011-05-12 | Roger Goza | Wall Mounted Modular Workstation System and Method |
FR2957694A1 (en) * | 2010-03-19 | 2011-09-23 | Florent Piquerel | Device for detecting end of utilization of workstation and activating stand-by mode of computer, has plate positioned on keyboard support carrier, and sensor detecting re-entry of carrier to determine end of utilization of computer |
US20110233350A1 (en) * | 2010-01-29 | 2011-09-29 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Work station with height adjustment lock |
US20110235249A1 (en) * | 2010-01-29 | 2011-09-29 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Work surface articulation |
US8441782B2 (en) | 2011-02-28 | 2013-05-14 | Enovate It | Wall-mounted computer work station |
US8616136B2 (en) | 2010-01-29 | 2013-12-31 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Keyboard tray tilt |
US8662605B2 (en) | 2011-02-18 | 2014-03-04 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Mobile technology cabinet |
US8677911B2 (en) | 2011-02-18 | 2014-03-25 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Technology cart |
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US20160120304A1 (en) * | 2012-05-11 | 2016-05-05 | Kevin McGowan | Wall mount furniture with cable concealment |
US9723919B1 (en) * | 2016-02-09 | 2017-08-08 | Symbiote, Inc. | Combination foldable and adjustable workstation |
US9933106B2 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2018-04-03 | Capsa Solutions, Llc | Height adjustable support |
US20180157305A1 (en) * | 2016-12-07 | 2018-06-07 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Optimized Power Transitions Based on User or Platform Conditions |
US10058170B2 (en) | 2016-02-10 | 2018-08-28 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions, Ltd | Modular walls with embedded furniture and opposing feature |
KR102230336B1 (en) * | 2020-09-21 | 2021-03-23 | 주식회사 브이피시스템 | Computer storage device for public places |
USRE48722E1 (en) | 2004-08-17 | 2021-09-07 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions Ltd. | Integrated reconfigurable wall system |
US11419409B2 (en) | 2019-12-12 | 2022-08-23 | David Raymond Koenig | Work station having a multi-purpose work surface |
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US8905496B2 (en) | 2008-12-11 | 2014-12-09 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Wall work station |
US10051956B2 (en) | 2008-12-11 | 2018-08-21 | Capsa Solutions, Llc | Wall work station |
US8446723B2 (en) * | 2009-11-09 | 2013-05-21 | Roger Goza | Wall mounted modular workstation system and method |
US20110110026A1 (en) * | 2009-11-09 | 2011-05-12 | Roger Goza | Wall Mounted Modular Workstation System and Method |
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US20110235249A1 (en) * | 2010-01-29 | 2011-09-29 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Work surface articulation |
US8616136B2 (en) | 2010-01-29 | 2013-12-31 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Keyboard tray tilt |
US20110233350A1 (en) * | 2010-01-29 | 2011-09-29 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Work station with height adjustment lock |
FR2957694A1 (en) * | 2010-03-19 | 2011-09-23 | Florent Piquerel | Device for detecting end of utilization of workstation and activating stand-by mode of computer, has plate positioned on keyboard support carrier, and sensor detecting re-entry of carrier to determine end of utilization of computer |
US8662605B2 (en) | 2011-02-18 | 2014-03-04 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Mobile technology cabinet |
US8677911B2 (en) | 2011-02-18 | 2014-03-25 | Rubbermaid Incorporated | Technology cart |
US8441782B2 (en) | 2011-02-28 | 2013-05-14 | Enovate It | Wall-mounted computer work station |
US10920418B2 (en) * | 2011-12-28 | 2021-02-16 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions, Ltd | Modular walls incorporating recessed, extendable furniture |
US20150211228A1 (en) * | 2011-12-28 | 2015-07-30 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions, Ltd. | Modular walls incorporating recessed, extendable furniture |
US9961993B2 (en) * | 2012-05-11 | 2018-05-08 | Ameriwood Industries, Inc. | Wall mount furniture with cable concealment |
US20160120304A1 (en) * | 2012-05-11 | 2016-05-05 | Kevin McGowan | Wall mount furniture with cable concealment |
US9933106B2 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2018-04-03 | Capsa Solutions, Llc | Height adjustable support |
US9980559B2 (en) | 2016-02-09 | 2018-05-29 | Symbiote, Inc. | Combination foldable and adjustable workstation |
US9723919B1 (en) * | 2016-02-09 | 2017-08-08 | Symbiote, Inc. | Combination foldable and adjustable workstation |
US10058170B2 (en) | 2016-02-10 | 2018-08-28 | Dirtt Environmental Solutions, Ltd | Modular walls with embedded furniture and opposing feature |
US10394304B2 (en) * | 2016-12-07 | 2019-08-27 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Optimized power transitions based on user or platform conditions |
US20180157305A1 (en) * | 2016-12-07 | 2018-06-07 | Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc | Optimized Power Transitions Based on User or Platform Conditions |
US11419409B2 (en) | 2019-12-12 | 2022-08-23 | David Raymond Koenig | Work station having a multi-purpose work surface |
US11700936B2 (en) | 2019-12-12 | 2023-07-18 | David Raymond Koenig | Work station having a multi-purpose work surface |
KR102230336B1 (en) * | 2020-09-21 | 2021-03-23 | 주식회사 브이피시스템 | Computer storage device for public places |
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