Electricity: motive power systems – Motor-reversing
Reexamination Certificate
1998-10-06
2001-04-17
Ip, Paul (Department: 2837)
Electricity: motive power systems
Motor-reversing
C318S139000, C320S107000, C320S111000, C062S237000, C062S239000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06218796
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to a cart for storing rechargeable devices and, in particular, to a driven cart within which rechargeable devices may be recharged.
2. Description of the Related Art
Portable computers, including so-called laptop computers, are being increasingly used in schools and businesses. Such portable computers have the advantage of being small and relatively light in weight and being capable of operation by battery power while still having sufficient processing and storage capability to operate as a fully functional computer. When such portable computers are used in a classroom setting, each member of the class may have a computer for use during the class. This raises the problem of storing the computers when not is use and of maintaining the batteries of the portable computers in a charged state so that the computers are ready for use during the class.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide storage for rechargeable devices which enables the devices to be recharged during storage. Another object of the invention is to provide a secure storage facility for rechargeable devices which is easily transported from one location to another. A further object of the invention is to provide for convenient charging of rechargeable devices and for cooling during charging of the devices.
These and other objects and advantages of the invention are provided by a cart having shelves for storing a number of rechargeable devices and including electrical connections within the cart for electrically connecting the rechargeable devices to line power for charging. The cart includes doors by which the rechargeable devices can be locked into the secured interior of the cart. A cooling fan is provided for drawing air through the interior of the cart, the fan preferably being under the control of a thermostat to ensure operation of the fan during high temperature conditions within the cabinet since many rechargeable devices, such as laptop computers, have heat generating transformers which provide the charging current to the rechargeable device. The present cart provides a location for storing the transformers of all rechargeable devices in a single location which is cooled by the fan. The transformers are connected to internal plug sockets in the cabinet, these plug sockets being connected to a number of separate electrical circuits of an electrical supply system. The electrical circuits of the internal plug sockets are connected at external connectors on the side of the cart which can be connected by electrical cords to wall outlets. Preferably, the connectors on the outside wall of the cart are recessed.
A drive system is provided for moving the cart. In a preferred embodiment, the drive system includes a driven wheel by an electric motor which is powered by a battery. In the preferred embodiment, the drive system includes four swivel-mounted wheels at the corners of the cart and a fifth wheel at the center of four swivel wheels, the fifth wheel being driven by the electric motor. A handle is provided on the cart and a switch is provided on the handle for selectively applying power to the electric motor. The switch preferably includes forward and reverse positions for applying power for forward and reverse operation of the motor.
Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent after review of the drawings and detailed description.
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Ip Paul
Mobile Design Corporation
Schiff & Hardin & Waite
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