Supports – Machinery support – Cradle
Reexamination Certificate
1998-11-12
2001-01-23
King, Anita M. (Department: 3632)
Supports
Machinery support
Cradle
C248S678000, C248S673000, C312S223200
Reexamination Certificate
active
06176461
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to electronics enclosures and more particularly to a methodology and implementation for providing an electronics enclosure which is convertible to stable positions in horizontal and vertical orientations.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The continuing advances in the state of the art in integrated circuits are resulting in smaller electronics devices in all fields and applications. This phenomenon is readily apparent with all electronic devices including PCs (personal computers), workstations and other computer-related systems. Recently, the widespread acceptance and use of the Internet has created a demand for even smaller computer related terminals referred to as “network computers”. The shrinkage of the electronics enclosures has resulted in thinner boxes which make it difficult or even impossible to position the box or enclosure on its side for vertically oriented placement since the thinner dimensions of the enclosure create an unstable base for vertical mounting situations.
Moreover, in many applications, it is desirable and even necessary to have the option to position the main computer enclosure in either a vertical orientation (typically for a workstation application) or a horizontal orientation (typically for a desktop application). Further, for most applications, the PC or network computer needs to be configured mechanically to be able to be mounted in either orientation, and also the electronics enclosure needs to be designed for compact packaging and shipment to dealers and end users.
Thus, there is a need for an improved methodology and implementing arrangement which allows and enables mechanical configuration options to provide for mechanically stable placement of thin electronics enclosures in either horizontal or vertical orientations.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A method and implementing electronics enclosure is provided which includes a selectively removable base support unit designed to stabilize vertical mounting capabilities when the base unit is attached to the enclosure, and to allow horizontal mounting of the electronics enclosure when the base unit is detached. The electronics enclosure includes a holding device to hold the base unit to the enclosure and a locking device to secure the base unit in a proper position relative to the enclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, a locking edge on the enclosure is tapered to force a secure fit between the enclosure edge and the support base unit.
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Beaman Daniel Paul
Buller M. Lawrence
Cooper Larry Thomas
Kerrigan Brian Michael
Merino Tristan Alfonso
International Business Machines Corp.
King Anita M.
Salys Casimer K.
Sanders Naschica
Wilder Robert V.
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