US20200069044A1

US20200069044A1 - Bathroom stand for computing device

Info

Publication number: US20200069044A1
Application number: US16/582,978
Authority: US
Inventors: Otto M. DUNKER
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-03-29
Filing date: 2019-09-25
Publication date: 2020-03-05

Abstract

A bathroom stand for a computing device is described which is designed for quick setup, and storage. The stand is designed to hold a computing device at a proper height and angle for use when a user is sitting on a standard toilet. It is made of materials that are water and humidity resistant, mold and mildew resistant. In an embodiment, the stand is designed to have a narrow front side which fits between a user's legs when seated on the toilet. The stand easily folds flat with one hand and can be stored in a splash resistant container. It may include removable connections to the toilet to stabilize it. The connections may be connected to the toilet by suction cups.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/934,976 “BATHROOM STAND FOR COMPUTING DEVICE” filed Mar. 24, 2018, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/478,580 “BATHROOM STAND FOR COMPUTING DEVICE” filed Mar. 29, 2017, all by the same inventor, Otto M. Dunker, which are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein to the extent that they do not conflict with the current disclosure.

FIELD

Aspects of the present invention relate to a device for holding a personal computing device in proper position for use in front of a toilet, and more specifically to a device for holding a personal computing device in proper position for use in front of a toilet, that is stable and easily folds into a small space.

BACKGROUND

No Tables, Small Space

Most people have time to read email and otherwise work on computing devices when in the bathroom. It is private, well-lit and is free of interruptions. However, it is hard to hold a laptop, tablet, or other personal computing device when sitting on a toilet. Dropping one will cause significant damage.
Bathrooms do not typically have tables or stands allowing one to place the computing device on the table or stand in front of the toilet. Also, it is not common to pull a table or stand into the bathroom when one enters.
Bathrooms typically are small and have little extra space. If one were to put a table or stand into the bathroom, it would be cramped. There is the possibility of using conventional folding tables or stands. These will not take up much room when folded and can be unfolded to be used. Many conventional folding stands do not have any support when folded. When folded, they are typically leaned against a wall or other object. They tend to fall when bumped and may possibly break something.

Quick Setup

Conventional folding stands or tables may take some time to unfold and fold. Since the user is not in the bathroom for extended periods of time, it does not make sense to spend significant time setting up and folding away such a stand.

Stability

Some conventional stands that stand alone and are not connected to another stationary fixture are not very stable. Since floors in bathrooms are tiled and not flat, conventional stands designed to work on flat surfaces tend to be wobbly and unstable on tiled surfaces.
Since the computing devices may be damaged if a stand tips over, it is important to be able to stabilize the stand.

Inclined Surface

Also, conventional stands and tables must be able to adjust to an inclined angle to allow for easier typing on the computing device. If they adjust to create an inclined surface, there is the potential that the computing device may slide off the inclined surface and onto the floor, damaging the device.

Wet, High Humidity Environment

Bathrooms typically have high humidity, due to running water, and vapor from showers. If one puts a conventional stand or table in the bathroom, it will not be long before it is affected by the high humidity, causing rusting of metal parts and mildew on other surfaces.
Running water in the sink may splash on a stand stored near it. This causes further corrosion of a stand.

Airflow

Some computing devices require air flow to cool them. Placing such a computing device flat on the surface of a conventional stand or table would block air flow and cause the computing device to overheat.

Wet Tiled Floors

Since the floor is tiled and sometimes wet, it is difficult for certain types of feet to make secure contact with the floor. Folding tables with angled legs many times have squared off ends. When these are in their usable position, they contact the floor at one of their corners. This results in a small surface area on a wet tiled floor. Since tiled floors do not have a flat surface, the legs do not make secure contact with the floor and tend to be wobbly.
Currently, there is a need for a device which overcomes the problems associated with holding a computing device in a bathroom.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to aspects of the present inventive concepts there is provided an apparatus and method as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the inventive concepts will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.
The current invention may be described as a folding bathroom stand 400 adapted for holding a computing device at a position and orientation to allow a user to use it when seated on a toilet. The stand includes a substantially flat desk board 410 having a bottom surface, and a top surface capable of supporting a computing device, a pair of parallel rear legs pivotally connected to a rear portion of the desk board 410, a rear leg support 455 attached between the rear legs 441, a front leg 461 pivotally attached to an approximate center of a front portion of the desk board 410, and a front leg support 453 pivotally attached between the front leg 461 and the rear leg support 455. The stand also includes a footrest 469 attached to a bottom end of the front leg 461 adapted to receive the user's feet and stabilize the stand 400.
The current invention may also be embodied as a folding bathroom stand 500 adapted for holding a computing device at a position and orientation to allow a user to use it when seated on a toilet, having a substantially flat desk board 410 with a bottom surface, and a top surface capable of supporting a computing device. The top surface has a front panel 411, and a rear panel 421 which can be propped up to provide an angled surface to hold the computing device at a desired angle. The stand also includes a pair of parallel rear legs 441, pivotally connected to a rear portion of the desk board 410, a rear leg support 455 attached between the rear legs 441, an adjustable front leg 561 having an adjustable height, pivotally attached to an approximate center of a front portion of the desk board 410, and a front leg support pivotally attached between the front leg 561 and the rear leg support 455. The stand also includes a footrest 569 attached to a bottom end of the front leg 461 adapted to receive the user's feet and stabilize the stand 500.
The current invention may be embodied as a bathroom stand 100 adapted for holding a computing device at a position and orientation to allow a user to use it when seated on a toilet, having a substantially flat desktop assembly 110, a pair of parallel pivot legs 141 pivotally connected to a front portion of the desktop assembly 110, a retainer 165 attached to a bottom surface of the desktop assembly, an upper support 145 positioned between the lower side of the desktop assembly 110 and the retainer 165, adapted to freely slide under the retainer 165 from an open position adjacent a rear section of the desktop assembly 110 to the front portion in a folded position, a pair of sliding legs 161 each attached to the upper support 145 and pivotally attached to the pivot legs 141, and a stabilizing means to stabilize the bathroom stand 100. In one embodiment, the stabilizing means has at least one stabilizer rod 203 adapted to connect between the bathroom stand 100 and the toilet, stabilizing the bathroom stand 100.
In another embodiment, the stabilizing means has flexible feet 190 which conform to a tile floor, stabilizing the bathroom stand 100.
In another embodiment, the stabilizing means has the flexible feet replaced with suction cups which attach to a tile floor, stabilizing the bathroom stand 100. Preferably, each suction cup has a structure similar to those described in the Simple Lines products at:

- https://simplelinescompany.com/products/extra-large-anitbacterial-rubber-bath-mat?variant=17378324099

Also, it is preferable that the suction cups be manufactured from a similar antimicrobial material as those above from Simple Lines Company.
At least one embodiment of the invention also employs non-corrosive materials to withstand the high humidity in the bathroom.
In at least one embodiment, the invention employs anti-microbial materials to resist the growth of mold, mildew and other microbes common in wet environments such as bathrooms.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and further advantages may be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals indicate like structural elements and features in various figures. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the concepts. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various example embodiments. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various example embodiments.

FIG. 1 illustrates a computing device stand in its fully opened position according to an embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates the computing device stand in its partially closed position according to an embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates the computing device stand in its fully closed position according to an embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the computing device stand in its fully opened position secured to a toilet according to an embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the computing device stand in its fully opened position secured to a toilet according to the embodiment of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the computing device stand in its fully opened position secured to a toilet according to another embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the computing device stand in its fully opened position secured to a toilet according to the embodiment of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the splash guard container of FIG. 3.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a bathroom showing another embodiment of the bathroom stand for holding a computing device 400 (also referred to as “stand 400”) in its fully opened position as it is intended to be used.

FIG. 10 is a closer perspective view of the stand of FIG. 9 with front panel 411 and rear panel 421 both lying flat.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the stand of FIGS. 9 and 10 with its front panel 411, and rear panel 421 extended upward.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view from below the stand of FIGS. 9-11.

FIGS. 13A-13D are various views of the stand 400 of FIGS. 9-12.

FIG. 14A is a front elevational view of the stand of FIGS. 9-14B in its folded storage position.

FIG. 14B is a side elevational view of the stand of FIGS. 9-15A in its folded storage position.

FIG. 14C is a rear elevational view of the stand of FIGS. 9-15B in its folded storage position.

FIGS. 15A, 15B are perspective views of the stand 400 of FIGS. 9-13D in its folded storage position.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view from above a computing device stand 500 in its fully opened position from above according to another embodiment of the current invention.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view from below a computing device stand 500 in its fully opened position from below according to another embodiment of FIG. 9.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the computing device stand of FIGS. 9 and 10 in its folded position.

FIG. 19 is a side elevational view of the computing device stand of FIGS. 16-17 in its folded position.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a splash guard container for storing the stand of FIGS. 9-15B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Theory

The current invention is a folding stand for holding a computing device in a bathroom which can quickly and easily be set up.
In an optional embodiment, the stand has a connection to the toilet. Toilets are fixed to the floor and are stationary objects. Also, bathrooms tend to have counters or cabinets which are fixed to the floor, making them stationary objects. A stand which is not connected to other objects can be unstable. Therefore, by connecting the stand to the toilet, counter or another stationary object, the computing device stand 100 (also referred to as “stand 100”) can become significantly more stable.
A stand according to an embodiment of the current invention may allow for an inclined surface to facilitate typing. It may also include a frictional surface and/or a raised stop for preventing the computing device from sliding off the inclined surface.
The stand should be large enough to easily hold the computing device, but small enough to be stored in a cramped bathroom. When stored, it should have a base which receives the folded stand and holds it in a stable position.
If the computing device is placed flat on a surface, there should be a means to provide air flow for cooling. This may include air holes through the surface of the stand, offset to hold the computing device slightly away from the surface allowing for air flow.
In an optional embodiment, it may include a fan to increase air circulation.
The feet are designed to be able to maximize the surface contact with a floor which is typically tiled and not flat. The stand includes pivots which allow it to contact the floor at various angles.
Due to the wet conditions, the floor is typically wet and slippery. The feet are made of a frictional material to reduce slippage.
At least one embodiment of the current invention is shown and described below.

Implementation

No Tables, Small Space

It is common for people to use computing devices, such as a laptop computer, computing tablet or smartphone when in the bathroom seated on the toilet. Since there typically are cabinets fixed to the floor and no other stands, it is difficult to hold the computing device while using it. Some have placed a small table in the bathroom; however, this takes up much of the space in the bathroom. The current computing device stand 100 is designed to fold into a small volume and be stored for use.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a computing device stand 100 in its fully opened position according to an embodiment of the current invention. In this embodiment, a pair of parallel pivot legs 141 each attach to an underside of a desktop assembly 110 at a leg connection. This allows pivot legs 141 to pivot with respect to desktop assembly 110. As is shown in FIG. 1, pivot legs 141 angle from a front side of desktop assembly 110 toward a rear side as they extend lower. The lower ends of pivot legs 141 end in rear feet 149.
In its fully open position, a pair of sliding legs 161 extend from the underside of the rear of desktop assembly 110, cross pivot legs 141 to extend forward to end in front feet 147. A sliding leg 161 and pivot leg 141 are pivotally connected at a leg connection 180.
The top ends of sliding legs 161 are attached together with an upper support (145 of FIG. 2). A lower support 155 is connected between front feet 147 to stabilize stand 100.
In an alternative embodiment, each of the legs are extendable. This may be by conventional means used to currently extend legs. For example, they may be telescoping, or fastened together in an overlapping fashion, such that they may be extended or retracted and fixed in the new positions.
The extending legs may have at least two settings, one to accommodate a standard height toilet, and another height to accommodate an Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) approved toilet, which is higher.
A desktop assembly 110 includes a lift board 111 which is pivotally connected to a base 121. The base 121 may be a frame or a panel which supports the lift board 111. The lift board is adjustably angled using an angle adjustment device 117. This allows a computing device to be positioned at a correct angle for use. Desktop assembly is typically smaller than a laptop computer and may hold any type of personal computing device. This may be a laptop, computing tablet or cell phone.
The stand has a height which is about a foot higher than the height of a seat of a conventional toilet. This is the proper height at which to use the computing device. In an alternative embodiment, the legs may be telescoping which would allow adjustment of their height. It may have two preset adjustable heights, one approximately at the height of a conventional toilet seat for use of a laptop computer and a second, higher height for the use of a tablet or smartphone. This may be typically up to a foot higher.

Air Flow

Usually, laptops have air vents in their lower surface. If these are blocked, the device overheats and can possibly be damaged. Sometimes the lift board 111 is not large enough for the feet to fit on the surface of the stand. In these cases, the surface of the computing device rests flat against the lift board 111 blocking the ventilation holes.
Therefore, the lift board 111 is designed to have air holes 113 allowing ventilation for the laptop or other computing device.
Alternatively, there may be standoff buttons 115 on the surface of the lift board 111. These may be small structures which hold the computing device a slight distance away from the lift board 111. This creates a conduit between the computing device and the lift board 111 allowing for air flow.

Table Angle

As indicated above, it is desirable to have the computing device at a proper angle. Lift board 111 is connected to base 121 by a hinge or other pivoting means. This allows the lift board 111 to be angled with respect to the base 121. An angle adjustment device 117 may be a mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic device which can be set to hold the lift board 111 at a specified angle with respect to the base 121. It also can be released to allow the lift board 111 to rest flat against the base 121.

Quick Setup

Since the computing stand 100 is set up, used for a short time then stored, repeatedly, it should be able to be set up and stored quickly and easily. The computing device stand of FIG. 1 has a handle 119 on the front of the desktop assembly 110. By simply lifting the handle 119, it causes the front to be pulled up and the computing device stand 100 to begin to fold, as shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 2 illustrates the computing device stand 100 in its partially closed position according to an embodiment of the current invention. As the user pulls upward on handle 119, the two pivot legs 141 on each side of the stand pivot relative to the desktop assembly 110.
The upper support 145 is connected between the top ends of the sliding legs 161. Upper support 145 moves from the rear of desktop assembly 110 toward the front side between retainer 165 and a lower surface of desktop assembly 110.
The lower two ends of sliding legs 161, the front feet 147, move toward the rear feet 149. The computing device stand 100 is shown in FIG. 3 in its fully closed and stored position.

Wet, High Humidity Environment

Since it is humid in the bathroom and many surfaces develop moisture, all parts of the computing device stand 100 must be made of a material which does not corrode, can withstand exposure to moisture for long periods of time, and resists mold and bacterial growth. Non-corrosive materials and anti-microbial materials should be used. This may include sacrificial materials which dissolve over a long period of time that continually deposit substances which stop the growth of microbes.
When not in use, the bathroom stand 100 can be placed into a splash guard container 300. The splash guard container 300 has an elongated body 320 which is sized to receive the bathroom stand 100 when it is in its folded position as shown in FIG. 3. The bathroom stand 100 is inserted through a top opening into the elongated body 320.
A cap 310 is designed to fold over and cover, and preferably overlap the top opening. This results in a splash proof covering of the bathroom stand 100.
Splash guard container 300 employs at least one stabilizer 330 which extends substantially perpendicular to the body 320.

Wet Tiled Floors—Stability

The computing device stand 100 is specifically designed to be used in a bathroom. Since most bathrooms have tiled floors, stands and tables designed to be used on flat floors do not grip the floor well. This makes them wobbly, and less stable than stands designed for tiled floors. Some have no additional structure on the feet and result in a flat, hard edge that meets an uneven tile floor. They do not conform to the floor shape and are unstable.
The current design employs flexible rubber feet 190, preferably having an angled shape as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
The feet may also employ a soft foam which contours to both the tiles and connections between the tiles. A soft foam rubber may be used on the feet or angled feet 190. Since they contour, there is significant surface area which reduces slipping, thereby stabilizing the stand 100.
Therefore, it is preferred to use closed cell foam rubber with increased traction properties such as the material used in the “EVA Surf Traction Pad” found at:
http://www.foamtechchina.com/products/sports/marine-products/surf-traction-pad/
This uses material which combines increased traction with minimal water absorption.
Since the floors are typically tiled in bathrooms, and they may be moist, suction cups may be used in place of the flexible feet 190. The suction cups 190 will stick well to the floor, and significantly stabilize the bathroom stand 100.
Since bathrooms typically have tile floors and since there is considerable condensation, the floors can be very slippery. In another embodiment, if foam rubber has increased frictional (traction) properties, there will be even less slippage. The problem is that conventional foam rubber absorbs water and contaminants. Therefore, if stored in the splash guard container 300 with a significant amount of water, mold may form.

General Stability

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the computing device stand 100 in its fully opened position secured to a toilet 3 according to an embodiment of the current invention. In this embodiment, a stabilizer rod 203, which is also shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, is pivotally attached to a lower support 155. Although it is shown as connected to lower support 155, it is understood that it is within the spirit of the invention to connect to various other structures of the bathroom stand 100. The stabilizer rod 203 preferably has a suction cup at its other end that is attached to a lower portion of the toilet 3. This suction cup may be similar to those described above for the feet. Since the toilet 3 is very stable, stabilizer rod 203 stabilizes bathroom stand 100.
The attachment point of the stabilizer rod 203 to the bathroom stand 100 allows for pivoting of stabilizer rod 203 relative to the bathroom stand 100. This allows for it to be folded against the legs when it is stored.
In an alternative embodiment, the bathroom stand 100 can be made more stable by adding weight to the lower portion of the legs. The pivot legs 141 and/or sliding legs 161 can be hollow legs which have an opening to receive weights. In one embodiment, they may have a circular cross section and there may be an opening to add pennies to weight down the legs and lower the center of gravity.
FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the computing device stand 100 in its fully opened position secured to a toilet 3 according to the embodiment of FIG. 4. In this embodiment, a single stabilizer rod 203 is employed.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the computing device stand 100 in its fully opened position secured to a toilet 3 according to another embodiment of the current invention. In this embodiment, there are two stabilizer rods 203 that connect to lower support 155. Again, although it is shown as connected to lower support 155, it is understood that it is within the spirit of the invention to connect to various other structures of the bathroom stand 100.
FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the computing device stand 100 in its fully opened position secured to a toilet 3 according to the embodiment of FIG. 6. Here the two stabilizers are visible connected to the lower support 155.
In another alternative embodiment, the user typically has their pants and underwear at their feet holding them together in front of them. In this embodiment, there are folding foot plates 169 hinged by foot plate hinges 167 to front feet 147 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In FIGS. 2 and 3, the foot plates 169 are shown in their upright and stored position. In FIG. 2, the footplates 169 are also shown in phantom in their open position folded down inwardly. The user steps on each of the foot plates 169 when they are in the downward, unfolded position. This stabilizes the bathroom stand 100.
In an alternative embodiment, folding footplates 169 are replaced with a cross piece 171 which connects the lower portions of pivot legs 161. The user can place his/her feet on this cross piece 171 to hold and stabilize the stand 100.
In still another embodiment, the side of the cross piece adjacent the floor has a covering of a compliant material, such as foam rubber 173 (FIGS. 2 and 3). It is best if this foam rubber employs closed cell structure, so that it does not absorb much water. It is also preferred that the foam rubber have high frictional (traction) properties.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the splash guard container 300 of FIG. 3. In this more detailed view, the splash guard container 300 is shown having a body 320 and a cap 310. The cap in this embodiment is hinged to body 320 and is in its open position. The stand 100 is intended to be inserted into the body 320 through the opening 321, as shown by arrow “A”.
The cap 310 is sized and shaped to close over opening 321 and protect it from splashing and contamination. As is known in the art, water-tight seals may be used to seal the cap 310 when it is closed over the opening 321.
In an alternative embodiment, the cap 310 may be separate, but still used to fit over the opening 321 to prevent water or contaminants from reaching the stand 100.
The lower section of body 320 is a flared base 323 which has a wider footprint than the body 320 to allow the splash guard container 300 to stand upright.
In an alternative embodiment, a stabilizer 330 may project horizontally away from the body 320 to add stability. Only one stabilizer 320 is required on the side opposite the toilet 3 when the splash guard container 300 is standing against the toilet 3.
In another embodiment, the splash guard container 300 employs stabilizers 330 on both sides of the body 320 and allows the splash guard container 300 to be stabilized and stand upright.
Also, there may be a foot pedal 340 which, when pressed, opens cap 310. This allows for ‘hands-free’ operation. Conventional mechanisms may be used for this function.
Since one must use toilet paper after defecating, there may be a receptacle for sanitary bags attached to the underside of the desktop assembly 110. This allows the user to put objects and papers into the sanitary bag before using the toilet paper, and later retrieve them after having washed up. This keeps the objects and papers sanitary.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a bathroom showing another embodiment of the bathroom stand for holding a computing device 400 (also referred to as “stand 400”) in its fully opened position as it is intended to be used.

Footplate

Since this stand 400 is intended to be used when a person (user) is seated on a toilet 3, stand 400 is designed with a front leg 461 that fits between the legs of the seated person. It also includes a footplate 469 which is perpendicular to the front leg 461 that is intended to lie flat on the floor in front of a toilet. The user can easily rest his/her feet upon the footplate 469. The weight of the user's feet holds the footplate 469 securely against the floor and stabilizes the stand 400.
The computing device stand 400 now will be described in connection with FIGS. 10-13D shown in its open position.
FIG. 10 is a closer perspective view of the stand of FIG. 9 with front panel 411 and rear panel 421 both lying flat. It is designed to hold a laptop device in this configuration. It will sit on the desk board 410 and receive cooling air through airholes 413.
Since desk board 410 is intended to hold a portable computing device, which may be a laptop computer, computing tablet, smart phone or other mobile device used for computing or communication, the desk board 410 has a plurality of airholes 413. These airholes 413 allow cooling air to pass through the desk board 410 to cool the computing device.

Standoff Buttons

In an alternative embodiment, the desk board 410 may also have a plurality of standoff buttons 415 which are protrusions, such as rubber blocks attached to the top surface of the desk board 410. The computing device rests on these but the protrusions keep the computing device a fixed distance above the surface of the desk board 410. This prevents air vents on the bottom surface of a computing device from being blocked. There will be a gap between the computing device and the surface of the desk board 410 which allows cooling air to flow to the computing device.
In this embodiment, a pair of parallel rear legs 441 each attach to an underside of a desk board 410. Rear legs 441 extend from the underside of desk board 410 downward.
A rear leg support 455 is attached between the rear legs 441 to stabilize them.
A front leg 461 is attached under a front portion of desk board 410 and extends downward.
A front leg support 453 connects the rear leg support 455 to the front leg 461 to stabilize it.

Flexible Feet

In another optional embodiment, soft, flexible feet 490 such as foam rubber that is soft enough to conform to the shape of the floor may be used at the bottom of the legs. The flexible feet 490 may be the same as those described above for other embodiments of the invention. The conforming foam rubber feet 490 are especially adaptable to irregular surfaces, such as tiled floors in bathrooms. This allows a larger amount of surface area to be in contact with the floor surface to prevent slipping.
The flexible feet 490 may also include any other conventional non-slip materials such as synthetic polymer materials designed to be non-slip material, such as that described in connection with the previous embodiment above.

Adjustable Angle

Since it is difficult to see a computing screen when there is a reflection or glare, it is preferable to be able to change the angle of the computing device. This can relieve the glare and make it more readable.
Also, the relative angle of the user and a screen of the computing device may make it difficult to type or select items on the screen. Changing the angle of the computing device many times makes it easier to use. The current embodiment employs at least a front panel 411 and a rear panel 421 which can fold flat into the desk board 410. In this case, it can receive and hold a laptop computer. Since laptops typically have hinged screens, they can be fixed at different angles to reduce reflection and glare.
However, if one is using a computing tablet or smartphone, additional structures are required to hold the screen at a specific angle. The current design has the ability to change the viewing/access/typing angle of the user.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the stand 400 of FIGS. 9 and 10 with the front panel 411 pivotally attached to a rear panel 421. Each of the panels 411, 421 has a near side, closest to the front handle 419 and a far side, farthest from the handle 419. The near side of front panel 411 is also pivotally connected to the desk board 410.
At least one panel support 425 extends under panels 411 and 421 to support them. The far side of rear panel 421 is not attached to the desk board 410 and is allowed to be moved away from desk board 410. Rear panel 421 can be angled to elevate its near end, which is hinged to and lifts the far end of front panel 411. The far end of rear panel 421 can be inserted into one of a plurality of notches 427 in the panel support 425, holding the far end of panel 421 in place. This creates a roof-shaped structure used to support and hold a computing device at a specified angle. This angle may be adjusted by inserting the far end of panel 421 into a different one of the plurality of notches 427.
This configuration is designed to hold an iPad, other computing tablet or smartphone at an adjustable angle for viewing.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the stand of FIGS. 9-11 in its open position showing the underside of the stand 400. Here the rear legs are shown pivotally connected to the desk board 410 at pivots 443. The panel support 425 and notches 427 can be seen more clearly in this figure.
FIGS. 13A-13D are various views of the stand 400. FIG. 13A shows a front leg 461 connected to an approximate center of the desk board 410, and two rear legs 455 on either side of the front leg 461. Rear leg support 455 is also visible from this viewpoint.
The desk board 410 has front panel 411 propped up to a desired angle allowing it to support a computing tablet.
FIG. 13B shows the front leg support 453 and a side view of rear panel 421 propping up front panel 411.
FIG. 13C is a plan view from above showing the top surface of desk board 410. The front panel 411, rear panel 421, and handle 419 can also be seen from this perspective.
FIG. 13D is a view from below the folding computing stand. From this viewpoint, the rear leg support 455, the front leg support 453, the footrest 469 and handle 419 are visible.
The computing device stand 400 will now be described in connection with the folding computing stand 400 in its folded configuration as shown in FIGS. 14A-15B.
Desk board 410 includes the handle 419 which may be simply a hole through the desk board 410 or another conventional handle. As a user pulls upward on handle 419, front edge of desk board 410 tilts upward to a more vertical orientation. Front leg 461 lifts upward off of the floor and toward desk board 410. Front leg 461 is allowed to rotate relative to the desk board 410 due to pivot 443. Rear legs 441 are also allowed to rotate relative to the desk board 410 around pivots 443.
Similarly, front leg 461 rotates relative to front leg support 453 through a rotating front support connection 445. Front leg support 453 rotates relative to the rear legs 441 by a pivoting front-rear support connection 449 (FIG. 12).
Alternatively, front leg support 453 rotates relative to the rear legs 441 by a pair of pivoting rear support connections 447.
By holding the stand 400 vertically by the handle 419, setting the rear legs on the floor and allowing the stand 400 to move vertically downward, it causes the stand 400 to unfold and open. The desk board 410 moves from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation. The front leg 453 comes down to rest on the floor and the stand 400 now is in its open position ready for use.
FIG. 14A is a front elevational view of the stand of FIGS. 9-13D in its folded storage position. The front leg 461 and front leg support 453 can easily be seen.
FIG. 14B is a side elevational view of the stand of FIGS. 9-14A in its folded storage position. The side of the desk board 410 and the side of rear leg 441 are both visible here.
FIG. 14C is a rear elevational view of the stand of FIGS. 9-14B in its folded storage position. This shows how the front leg 461 is folded and stored. It also shows the relative storage positions of the footrest 469 and the rear leg support 455.
FIG. 15A is a perspective view of the folding computing stand 400 in its folded position showing the top surface of the desk board 410, front panel 411, and rear panel 421.
FIG. 15B is another perspective view of the stand 400 in its folded position. This more clearly shows the structures under desk board 410.
The stand 400 is designed to open from its folded position easily, preferably requiring one hand. It is also designed to close and be stored easily. It is intended to be a quick set-up device.
Besides using the front panel 411 and the rear panel 421 to hold the computing device at a desired angle, the desk board 410 may be angled by using an adjustable length front leg.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view from above a computing device stand 500 in its fully opened position from above according to another embodiment of the current invention.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the computing device stand 400 of FIG. 16 in its fully opened position from a viewing angle which shows the underside of desk board 410.
This embodiment of the computing device stand 500 will now be described in connection with FIGS. 16-17. In this embodiment, a pair of parallel rear legs 441 each attach to an underside of a desk board 410 at a pivot connection 443. This allows rear legs 441 to pivot with respect to desktop board 410. As is shown in FIG. 17, rear legs 441 extend from the underside of desk board 410 downward, where the lower ends of rear legs 441 may end in flexible feet 490.
A rear leg support 455 is attached between the rear legs 441 to stabilize them.
A front leg 461 is attached under a front portion of desk board 410 at another pivot connection 443 allowing front leg 461 to pivot with respect to the desk board 410.
A front leg support 453 connects to the rear leg support 455 to stabilize the front leg 461

Adjustable Leg

Since it is difficult to see a computing screen when there is a reflection or glare, it is preferable to be able to change the angle of the computing device. This can relieve the glare and make it more readable.
In this embodiment, shown in FIGS. 16-19, front leg 461 is constructed from a hollow outer portion 563 which is sized and shaped to receive an extension bar 565. Extension bar 565 can slide into or extend out of outer portion 563. In this embodiment, the outer portion has a plurality of colinear adjustment orifices 581. The extension bar has a spring-loaded adjustment button 583 which is sized and positioned to pop through each of the adjustment orifices 581 when the extension bar 565 is moved to the correct height. Once the adjustment button 583 pops into one of the adjustment orifices 581, it secures the extension bar 565 relative to the outer portion 563. Therefore, a user can press adjustment button 583 in and extend or retract extension bar 565, thereby elevating or lowering the height of the front portion of the desk board 410. Since the height of the rear legs is fixed, this tilts the desk board 410 up or down.

Footplate

Since the stand 500 is intended to be used when a user is seated on a toilet, it is designed with a single front leg which can fit between the legs of a seated person. It also includes a footplate 569 which is perpendicular to the front leg 461 and is intended to lie flat on the floor in front of a toilet. The user's feet can easily rest his/her feet upon the footplate 569. The weight of the user's feet holds the footplate 569 securely against the floor and stabilizes the stand 500.
Since desk board 410 is intended to hold a computing device, which may be a laptop computer, it has a plurality of airholes 413 which allow cooling air to pass through the desk board 410, into cooling vents of the computing device on the desk board 410, and through the computing device, thereby cooling it.

Standoff Buttons

As indicated for previous embodiments, the desk board 410 may also have a plurality of standoff buttons 415 which are protrusions, such as rubber blocks attached to the top surface of the desk board 410. The computing device rests on these standoff buttons 415 to keep the computing device a fixed distance above the surface of the desk board 410. This prevents air vents on the bottom surface of a computing device from becoming blocked. There will be a gap between the computing device and the surface of the desk board 410 which allows cooling air to flow to the computing device.

Flexible Feet

As with the other embodiments, the flexible feet 490 are soft enough to conform to the shape of the floor and are especially adaptable to tiled floors, such as those in bathrooms. This allows a large amount of surface area contact and prevents slipping of the stand.
The flexible feet 490 may also be made of a non-slip material as indicated above for previous embodiments.

Folding Design

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the computing device stand 500 of FIGS. 16-17 in its folded position.
FIG. 19 is a side elevational view of the computing device stand 500 of FIGS. 16-17 in its folded position.
The computing device stand 500 will now be described in connection with FIGS. 19 and 20. The stand 500 is designed to fold up easily, preferably requiring one hand, and also designed to open easily. This is intended to be a quick set-up device for quick implementation and use. It is also designed to be folded up easily and stored.
Desk board 410 includes a handle 419 which may be simply a hole through the desk board 410, or another conventional handle. As a user pulls upward on handle 419, front edge of desk board 410 tilts upward to a more vertical orientation. Front leg 461 lifts upward off of the floor and toward desk board 410. Front leg 461 is allowed to rotate relative to the desk board 410 due to pivot 443. Rear legs 441 are also allowed to rotate relative to the desk board 410 around pivots 443.
Similarly, front leg 461 rotates relative to front leg support 453 through a rotating front support connection 445. Front leg support 453 rotates relative to the rear legs 441 by a pivoting front-rear support connection 449.
Alternatively, front leg support 453 rotates relative to the rear legs 441 by a pair of pivoting rear support connections 447.
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a splash guard container 600 for storing one of the computing device stands 400, 500 of FIGS. 9-15B described above. As is shown here, the cover 610 can be pulled out to expose an opening 621 into an internal cavity 620. The stand 400, 500 can be lifted by its handle 419, to put it into its folded position. The stand 400, 500 can then be placed through opening 621 and into the internal cavity 620 of splash guard container 600.
Referring back to FIG. 9, optional embodiments of stand 400, (FIGS. 10-15B) and stand 500 (FIGS. 16-19) may employ a stabilizer rod 493 which is connected between stand 400, 500 and toilet 3. This greatly increases the stability of the stand 400, 500. The attachments may be a pivot connection 497 between the stabilizer bar 493 and front leg 461. This allows stabilizer bar 493 to pivot relative to front leg 461.
Stabilizer bar 493 may attach to the toilet using any conventional removable attachment such as a suction cup attachment 495. Preferably, this suction cup attachment 495 is constructed from an antimicrobial material.
Although a few examples have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A folding bathroom stand adapted for holding a computing device at a position and orientation to allow a user to use it when seated on a toilet comprises:

a. a substantially flat desk board having a bottom surface, and a top surface capable of supporting a computing device;

b. a pair of parallel rear legs, pivotally connected to a rear portion of the desk board;

c. a rear leg support attached between the rear legs;

d. a front leg pivotally attached to an approximate center of a front portion of the desk board;

e. a front leg support pivotally attached between the front leg and the rear leg support; and

f. a footrest attached to a bottom end of the front leg adapted to receive the user's feet and stabilize the stand.

2. The folding bathroom stand of claim 1, wherein at least some of the materials used for the folding bathroom stand are anti-microbial.

3. The folding bathroom stand of claim 1, wherein at least some of the materials used for the folding bathroom stand are corrosion-resistant.

4. The folding bathroom stand of claim 1, wherein the stabilizing structure comprises:

at least one stabilizer adapted to connect between the bathroom stand and the toilet, stabilizing the bathroom stand.

5. The folding bathroom stand of claim 1, wherein the stabilizing structure comprises:

flexible feet which conform to a tile floor, stabilizing the bathroom stand.

6. The folding bathroom stand of claim 5, wherein the flexible feet comprise:

suction cups which attach to a tile floor, stabilizing the bathroom stand.

7. A folding bathroom stand adapted for holding a computing device at a position and orientation to allow a user to use it when seated on a toilet comprises:

a. a substantially flat desk board having a bottom surface, and a top surface capable of supporting a computing device wherein the top surface has a front panel, and a rear panel which can be propped up to provide an angled surface to hold the computing device at a desired angle;

c. a rear leg support attached between the rear legs;

d. an adjustable front leg having an adjustable height, pivotally attached to an approximate center of a front portion of the desk board;

8. The folding bathroom stand of claim 7 wherein the adjustable leg comprises:

a. an outer portion of the adjustable leg,

b. an extension bar which fits within the outer portion and extends out of it;

c. a locking device which secures the extension bar to the outer portion to keep desk board at a desired height.

9. The folding bathroom stand of claim 7 wherein the locking device comprises:

a. a plurality of adjustment orifices in the outer portion; and

b. a spring-loaded button extending from the extension bar and through one of the adjustment orifices, securing the extension bar to the outer portion.

10. The folding bathroom stand of claim 7, wherein at least some of the materials used in the folding bathroom stand are anti-microbial.

11. The folding bathroom stand of claim 7, wherein at least some of the materials used in the folding bathroom stand are corrosion-resistant.

12. The folding bathroom stand of claim 7, wherein the stabilizing structure comprises:

at least one stabilizer adapted to connect between the bathroom stand and the toilet 3, stabilizing the bathroom stand.

13. The folding bathroom stand of claim 7, further comprising:

flexible feet which conform to a tile floor, stabilizing the bathroom stand.

14. The folding bathroom stand of claim 7, further comprising:

suction cups at a bottom of at least one of the legs which can removably attach to a floor, stabilizing the bathroom stand.

15. A folding bathroom stand, comprising:

a. a desktop assembly sized and shaped to hold a computing device;

b. support legs each having an upper end attached to the desktop assembly, and a lower end opposite the upper end; the legs sized to hold the desktop assembly at a height allowing a person sitting on a toilet to use the computing device; and

c. at least one stabilizing structure which stabilizes the stand.

16. The folding bathroom stand of claim 15, wherein the stabilizing structure is a cross bar attached between two support legs, wide enough to receive a user's feet, stabilizing the stand.

17. The folding bathroom stand of claim 15, wherein the stabilizing structure is at least one folding foot plate wide enough to receive a user's foot, thereby stabilizing the stand.

18. The folding bathroom stand of claim 15, wherein the lower end of at least one of the legs employs a conforming material which is designed to conform to an irregular floor and not to absorb water.

19. The folding bathroom stand of claim 15, wherein the lower end of at least one leg has a wedge-shaped flexible foot.

20. The folding bathroom stand of claim 15, wherein the legs are extendable and extend to a second height, which is approved by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), that allows a person sitting on a toilet to use the computing device.