WO2020035804A1

WO2020035804A1 - Support for manual computer input devices and upper limbs

Info

Publication number: WO2020035804A1
Application number: PCT/IB2019/056900
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mordechai ROZENTSWAIG
Original assignee: Rozentswaig Mordechai
Priority date: 2018-08-14
Filing date: 2019-08-14
Publication date: 2020-02-20
Also published as: US20210307503A1

Abstract

The present subject matter provides a support for manual computer input devices and upper limbs, the support comprising: either one, or two, forearm supports; a keyboard support positioned distantly from each of the either one, or two, forearm supports; and a space configured to allow presence of a user inside the space, wherein the either one, or two, forearm supports are aside the space. Additional embodiments of the support are disclosed herein.

Description

SUPPORT FOR MANUAL COMPUTER INPUT DEVICES AND UPPER LIMBS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[001] This application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 62/718,399, filed August 14, 2018, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[002] The present subject matter relates to supports for manual computer input devices and upper limbs. More particularly, the present subject matter relates to ergonomically designed supports for manual computer input devices and upper limbs.

BACKGROUND

[003] During usage of a computer, particularly manual computer input devices, such as a computer keyboard and a mouse, elbows, forearms and wrists of a user have to be supported, and bending of the hand relative to the forearm has to be avoided, in order to prevent pain, inflammation and the like. In addition, ergonomically, the computer keyboard has to be centered relative to the body. However, currently available furniture for computer users does not provide proper support to the elbows, forearms and wrists of the user, in most cases force bending of the hands relative to the forearms and in some cases forces bending of the back of the user, with all the accompanying complications as known in the art. For example, a chair having armrests provides only partial support to the elbows and forearms, and in most cases the armrests are not in line with, mostly below, and relatively distant from, a working surface on which the computer input device stands, for example a table or a desk. This is a result of design constraints because the chair has to fit under the table or desk, and because the user has to be able to access the chair without interference by the armrests. As a result, the armrests do not properly support the weight of the arms of the user. In some cases, the armrests are too narrow to fully support the forearms to a full range of use that is required when working with a computer keyboard, especially with typewriter keys of the computer keyboard, and a mouse.

[004] Thus, back and neck vertebrae and muscles of the neck and shoulder bear the entire weight of the arms for prolonged periods of time during usage of a computer, leading to chronic shoulder and neck pain, upper back problems and the like. In addition, the lowered position of the armrests relative to the working surface forces bending of the hands relative to the forearms, which can be harmful to the user as mentioned above.

[005] Furthermore, most of the currently available working surfaces are flat and horizontally positioned, while ergonomically an inclined working surface is preferred in order to bring an object being worked on, for example a computer keyboard, closer to the eyes of the user. Therefore, mechanisms for inclining the computer keyboard towards to the user’s eyes are available, for example foldable legs at a distant edge of the computer keyboard relative to the user. However, inclining the computer keyboard forces an even worse incline of the hands relative to the forearms, which can be harmful to the user, especially in the wrist area, as mentioned above.

SUMMARY

[006] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this subject matter belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present subject matter, suitable methods and materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[007] According to one aspect of the present subject matter, there is provided a support for manual computer input devices and upper limbs, the support comprising: either one, or two, forearm supports; a keyboard support positioned distantly from each of the either one, or two, forearm supports; and a space configured to allow presence of a user inside the space, wherein the either one, or two, forearm supports are aside the space.

[008] According to one embodiment, the support comprises a left forearm support and a right forearm support. [009] According to another embodiment, the space is between the left forearm support and the right forearm support.

[010] According to yet another embodiment, the support further comprises either one, or two, mouse supports, distantly from the either one, or two, forearm supports and aside the keyboard support.

[011] According to still another embodiment, the support comprises a left mouse support and a right mouse support.

[012] According to a further embodiment, the support further comprises a center mark marking substantially a center of the space.

[013] According to yet a further embodiment, the keyboard support is positioned in such a way that a center of a typewriter keys area of a computer keyboard placed in the keyboard support is aligned with the center mark.

[014] According to still a further embodiment, a surface of the keyboard support is lower than a surface of the either one, or two, forearm supports.

[015] According to an additional embodiment, the surface of the keyboard support is lower than the surface of the either one, or two, forearm supports in a manner that a surface of a computer keyboard that is placed on the keyboard support is in line with the surface of the either one, or two, forearm supports.

[016] According to yet an additional embodiment, a height of a computer keyboard placed on the keyboard support is adjustable.

[017] According to still an additional embodiment, the support further comprises a keyboard support cover configured to be placed on the keyboard support and cover the keyboard support.

[018] According to another embodiment, when the keyboard support cover is placed on the keyboard support, a height of the keyboard support cover is similar to a height of the either one, or two, forearms supports. [019] According to yet another embodiment, the support is configured to be inclined in a manner that a distant side of the support, relative to the space, is higher than a proximate side of the support, relative to the space.

[020] According to still another embodiment, a degree of incline of the support is adjustable.

[021 ] According to a further embodiment, the support further comprises at least one extender configured to extend beyond the keyboard support, and thus support a computer keyboard that is larger than the keyboard support.

[022] According to another aspect of the present subject matter, there is provided a supporting desk comprising a support part according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, connected to a desk.

[023] According to one embodiment, the support part is pivotally connected to the desk.

[024] According to another embodiment, the support part is configured to be inclined relative to the desk, when while inclined the support part is lower than the desk.

[025] According to yet another aspect of the present subject matter, there is provided a combination of a support according to any one of the aforementioned embodimentsm and a computer keyboard.

[026] According to still another aspect of the present subject matter, there is provided a collapsible support according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments.

[027] According to one embodiment, a distance between a left forearm support and a right forearm support is adjustable.

[028] According to another embodiment, a position of a mouse support is adjustable.

[029] According to yet anther embodiment, a degree of incline of the keyboard support is adjustable.

[030] According to still another embodiment, a size of the keyboard support is adjustable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[031] Embodiments are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the embodiments. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how several forms may be embodied in practice.

[032] In the drawings:

[033] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a support.

[034] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a support and a computer keyboard supported by the support.

[035] Figs. 3A-C schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a keyboard support comprising at least one slidable height adjustor.

[036] Fig. 4 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, a side view of a support and a computer keyboard supported by the support.

[037] Fig. 5A schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a keyboard support comprising at least one extender.

[038] Fig. 5B schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a keyboard support comprising at least one extender, supporting a computer keyboard larger that the keyboard support.

[039] Fig. 6 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, a front perspective view of a support placed on a working surface and supporting a computer keyboard and a mouse. [040] Figs. 7A-B schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, a top view and a side view of a supporting desk.

[041] Fig. 8 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective exploded view of a collapsible support.

[042] Fig. 9 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a folded foreami supports connector connected to a left forearm support.

[043] Fig. 10 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, a bottom perspective view of a left forearm support and a right forearm support.

[044] Figs. 11A-H schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, perspective views of various stages of assembling of the collapsible support.

[045] Figs. 12A-C schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, perspective views of a collapsible support that is configured to support a large computer keyboard.

[046] Figs. 13A-D schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, perspective views of a collapsible support that is configured to support a standard computer keyboard.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[047] Before explaining at least one embodiment in detail, it is to be understood that the subject matter is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The subject matter is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. In discussion of the various figures described herein below, like numbers refer to like parts. The drawings are generally not to scale. [048] For clarity, non-essential elements were omitted from some of the drawings.

[049] The present subject matter provides a support for manual computer input devices and upper limbs. More particularly, the present subject matter provides a support for manual computer input devices that are configured to be placed on a working surface and operated manually, for example a computer keyboard, a mouse and the like. The support of the present subject matter is further configured to support the upper limbs of a user operating the manual computer input devices. An upper limb of a human user comprises an arm, a forearm, an elbow serving as a joint between the arm and the forearm, a hand and a wrist serving as a joint between the hand and the forearm.

[050] For the sake of simplicity only, the support for manual computer input devices and upper limbs is occasionally referred to hereinafter as“support 1”.

[051] According to one embodiment, the support 1 is configured to support at least one manual computer input device, for example a computer keyboard and a mouse. According to a preferred embodiment, the support 1 is configured to support a computer keyboard and a mouse. The verb“support” refers to an ability of the support 1 to accommodate and fix a computer keyboard so it would not move aside. The verb“support” further refers to an ability of the support 1 to serve as a mouse pad on which a mouse can be moved by a user during operation of a computer. The verb“support” additionally refers to an ability of the support 1 to allow full positioning of both forearms of a user while working on the support 1, namely operating a computer, typing, handwriting and the like. Full positioning of both forearms on the support 1 means that the entire lower surface of the forearms, including the elbows and the wrists, are in full contact with surfaces of the support 1, in a manner that the support 1 is configured to bear the weight of both upper limbs of the user.

[052] According to one embodiment, the support 1 is configured to support the entire forearms of a user in an ergonomically correct and comfortable position.

[053] According to one embodiment, the support 1 is configured to be placed on a working surface. Any type of working surface known in the art is under the scope of the present subject matter, for example a table; a desk; a working surface having a fixed angle relative to the ground, for example a horizontal or an inclined working surface; a working surface having an adjustable angle relative to the ground, and the like.

[054] According to one embodiment, when used, the support 1 is configured to be inclined relative to the ground in a manner that brings an object placed on the support closer to the eyes of the user. An object can be a computer keyboard, a book, a notebook or any reading material or material that has to be viewed by the user while using the support 1. Besides bringing the object closer to the eyes of the user, another advantage of the incline of the support 1 is that it can minimize deleterious effects such as muscle strain, neck pain and upper back aches while using the support 1.

[055] According to one embodiment, the support 1 is configured to support fully forearms of a user, while the forearms are positioned at least partially, preferably fully, aside a user’s body. As shown hereinafter, parts of the support 1 that are configured to supports the forearms of the user can extend beyond a working surface on which the support 1 is placed, towards the user, while letting the body of the user be positioned between the parts of the support 1 that support the forearms of the user.

[056] According to one embodiment, the support 1 is configured to accommodate a computer keyboard in a manner that an upper surface of the computer keyboard is substantially at a same plane as an upper surface of the support 1. An advantage of this embodiment is that it eliminates incline of the hand relative to the forearm of the user when using the computer keyboard. This is in contrast to prior art settings in which the upper surface of the computer keyboard that is placed on a working surface is higher than the upper surface of the working surface, thus forcing incline of the hand relative to the forearm of the user. According to another embodiment, height of the computer keyboard, when placed on the support 1, can be adjusted, so the computer keyboard can be placed in line of the upper surface of the support 1, as described in the previous embodiment, or below the upper surface of the support 1, or above the upper surface of the support 1, as desired by the user.

[057] According to one embodiment, the support 1 is configured to support any type of computer keyboard known in the art, for example a computer keyboard that is separated from other components of the computer, a laptop and the like. [058] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a support.

[059] According to one embodiment, the support 1 comprises either one, or two, forearm supports. According to another embodiment, the support 1 comprises a left forearm support 102 positioned on a left side of the support 1 and configured to support a left forearm of a user. According to yet another embodiment, the support 1 comprises a right forearm support 104 positioned on a right side of the support 1 and configured to support a right forearm of a user. According to still another embodiment, the support 1 comprises both a left forearm support 102 and a right forearm support 104 positioned as described above and as illustrated in Fig. 1. According to a further embodiment, each forearm support is configured to support entirely a forearm of a user, in a manner that the entire forearm, from the elbow to the wrist, is in full contact with the forearm support. According to yet a further embodiment, each forearm support is configured to entirely support a forearm of a user in any position of the forearm as desired by the user. This embodiment is practical due to the size of each forearm support that is long enough to support a forearm and wide enough to support a forearm positioned in any angle relative to a user’ s body as desired by the user.

[060] According to one embodiment, when the support 1 comprises a left forearm support 102 and a right forearm support 104, as illustrated in Fig. 1, a space 106 is defined in between the left forearm support 102 and the right forearm support 104. Also, when the support comprises only one forearm support - either a left forearm support 102, or a right forearm support 104, there is a space 106 aside each one of the forearm supports. According to another embodiment, the space 106 is configured to allow presence of a user inside the space 106. This brings the forearm supports to the sides of the body of the user, thus allowing the user to operate a computer keyboard, for example, while his forearms are aside his body and fully supported. This embodiment also allows the user to bring a computer keyboard closer to him, as desired, and operate the computer keyboard while the forearms are fully supported. It should be noted that when the support 1 is placed on a working surface, for example a table, a desk and the like, the support 1 can be placed in such a manner that the forearm supports extend out of an edge of the working surface and positioned aside the user positioned in front of the working surface and the support 1. [061] According to one embodiment, the support 1 can further comprise either one, or two, mouse supports, distantly from the either one, or two, forearm supports. According to another embodiment, the support 1 comprises a left mouse support 108 positioned on a left side of the support 1, distant from the left forearm support 102 relative to the user. The left mouse support 108 is configured to support a mouse positioned on a left side of the user. According to yet another embodiment, the support 1 comprises a right mouse support 110 positioned on a right side of the support 1, distant from the right forearm support 104 relative to the user. The right mouse support 110 is configured to support a mouse positioned on a right side of a user. According to still another embodiment, the support 1 comprises both a left mouse support 108 and a right mouse support 110 positioned as described above and as illustrated in Fig. 1. According to a further embodiment, each mouse support is configured to support a mouse when used and move by a hand of a user. This embodiment is practical due to the size of each mouse support that is enough to allow movement of the mouse as desired by the user.

[062] According to one embodiment, the support 1 further comprises a keyboard support 112 positioned substantially in front of the space 106 and in a certain distance from the space 106. In other words, the keyboard support 112 is positioned in front of a user of the support 1. The keyboard support 112 is configured to support a computer keyboard. Any type of computer keyboard know in the art is under the scope of the present subject matter, for example a computer keyboard that is separated from other components of the computer, a laptop and the like.

[063] According to one embodiment, the support 1 further comprises a center mark 114 marking substantially a center of the space 106.

[064] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a support and a computer keyboard supported by the support.

[065] As can be seen in Fig. 2, the computer keyboard 20 is placed in the keyboard support 112. A conventional computer keyboard 20 comprises a typewriter keys area 22 and other areas aside the typewriter keys area 22, normally at a right side of the typewriter keys area 22. Some exemplary other areas can be a eurser control keys area 24 and a numeric keypad 26. Ergonomically, a center of the typewriter keys area 22 has to be aligned with a longitudinal center of the user. Thus, the center mark 114, that is marked substantially at the center of the space 106 of the user, also marks the longitudinal center of the user. Therefore, when a computer keyboard 20 is placed in the keyboard support 112 of the support 1, it is recommended to align a center of the typewriter keys area 22 of the computer keyboard 20 with the center mark 114 of the support 1.

[066] As can be seen in Fig. 2, according to one embodiment, the size of the keyboard support 112 substantially fits the size of a conventional computer keyboard 20. Thus, in this embodiment, the position of the keyboard support 1 12 in the support 1 is such that when a conventional computer keyboard 20 is placed on the keyboard support 112, the center of the typewriter keys area 22 substantially aligns with the center mark 114 of the support 1. According to another embodiment, the size of the key board support 112 can be different from the size of a conventional computer keyboard 20, for example larger than the size of the conventional computer keyboard 20. In this embodiment, it is recommended for the user to substantially align the center of the typewriter keys area 22 of the computer keyboard 20 with the center mark 114.

[067] According to one embodiment, the keyboard support 112 has a niche-like structure. In other words, a surface of the keyboard support 112 on which a computer keyboard 20 is placed is lower than the surfaces of the forearm supports and the mouse supports. Thus, according to another embodiment, when a computer keyboard 20 is placed on the keyboard support 112, an upper surface of the computer keyboard 20 is substantially at a same plane as an upper surface of the forearm supports and the mouse supports. An advantage of this embodiment is that it eliminates incline of the hand relative to the forearm of the user when using the computer keyboard 20. This is in contrast to prior art settings in which the upper surface of the computer keyboard 20 that is placed on a working surface, for example a table or a desk, is higher than the upper surface of the working surface, thus forcing incline of the hand relative to the forearm of the user during usage of the computer keyboard 20. According to yet another embodiment, a height of the computer keyboard 20, when placed on the keyboard support 112, can be adjusted, so the computer keyboard 20 can be placed in any desired height, for example, when the upper surface of the computer keyboard 20 is in line with the surfaces of the forearm supports and mouth supports, or below the surfaces of the forearm supports and mouse supports, or above the surfaces of the forearms supports and the mouse supports, as desired by the user. [068] Any mechanism known in the art for adjusting the height of the computer keyboard 20, when placed on the keyboard support 112, is under the scope of the present subject matter. An exemplary mechanism for adjusting the height of the computer keyboard 20, when placed on the keyboard support 112, can be using at least one height adjustor that is configured to be placed on the keyboard support 112, change its height as desired by a user, and allow placement of the computer keyboard 20 on the height adjustor.

[069] An exemplary at least one height adjustor can be at least one screw that is configured to be screwed into the keyboard support 112 and on which the computer keyboard 20 can be placed. When it is desired, for example, to lower the height of the computer keyboard 20, the at least one screw can be further screwed into the keyboard support 112, thus lowering the height of the at least one screw and as a result lowering the height of the computer keyboard 20 placed on the at least one screw. However, when it is desired, for example, to elevate the height of the computer keyboard 20, the at least one screw can be screw out of the keyboard support, thus elevating the height pf the at least one screw and as a result increasing the height of the computer keyboard 20 placed on the at least one screw.

[070] Another exemplary at least one height adjustor is at least one height block. A height block can be in a shape of, for example, a cube, a cuboid, a cylinder and the like. The at least one height block is configured to be placed on the keyboard support 1 12 and allow placement of the computer keyboard 20 on the height block. In addition, height blocks can be placed one on top of the other, thus increasing their height, or be removed one from the top of the other, thus lowering their height, and as a result increasing or decreasing, respectively, the height of the computer keyboard 20 placed on the at least one height block.

[071] Yet another exemplary at least one height adjustor is at least one slidable height adjustor, as illustrated hereinafter in Figs. 3A-C.

[072] Figs. 3A-C schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a keyboard support 112 comprising at least one slidable height adjustor 120.

[073] According to the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 3A-C, the support 1 further comprises at least one slidable height adjustor 120 configured to adjust the height of a computer keyboard 20 placed in the keyboard support 112 and is further configured to slide in an out of the keyboard support 112. According to one embodiment, the keyboard support 112 further comprises at least one rail 122 at a left side and at a right side of the keyboard support 112. The at least one slidable height adjustor 120 is configured to slide into the at least one rail 122 and placed inside the keyboard support 112, thus increasing the height of a computer keyboard 20 that is placed on the at least one slidable height adjustor 120 that is placed inside the keyboard support. In addition, the at least one slidable height adjustor 120 can be removed from the keyboard support 112 by sliding the at least one slidable height adjustor 120 out of the at least one rail 122.

[074] According to a further embodiment, the at least one slidable height adjustor 120 can comprise on one of its surfaces a protrusion 120-2, configured to further increase the height of a computer keyboard 20 placed on the protrusion 120-2 of the at least one slidable height adjustor 120 that is sled inside the keyboard support 112. Thus, as can be seen in Fig. 3A, the at least one slidable height adjustor 120 is inserted into the keyboard support 112 in such an orientation that the protrusion 120-2 faces downwards and not influencing the height of a computer keyboard 20 placed on the at least one slidable height support 120. Therefore, the protrusions 120-2 are not seen in Fig. 3A. When there is a desire to increase the height of the computer keyboard 20, the at least one slidable height adjustor 120 is sled out of the at least one rail 122 and flipped, as seen in Fig. 3B, thus bringing the protrusions 120-2 upwards. Then, the at least one slidable height adjustor 120 is sled back into the at least one rail 122 with the protrusions 120-2 facing upwards, as can be seen in Fig. 3C. This increases the height of a computer keyboard 20 placed on the protrusions 120-2, compared to the orientation where the protrusions 120-2 were facing downwards, as seen in Fig. 3 A.

[075] According to one embodiment, the support 1 further comprises a keyboard support cover 130, seen in Fig. 7 A hereinafter. According to another embodiment, the keyboard support cover 130 is configured to be placed on the keyboard support 112 and cover the keyboard support 112. According to yet another embodiment, when the keyboard support cover 130 is placed on the keyboard support 112, the height of the keyboard support cover 130 is similar to the height of the forearms supports and the mouse supports, thus forming a uniform surface that can be used for activities not involving usage of a computer keyboard 20, such as reading, handwriting and the like, or simply for covering the keyboard support 112 for decorative purposes. [076] Fig. 4 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, a side view of a support 1 and a computer keyboard 20 supported by the support 1.

[077] According to one embodiment, the support 1 is configured to be inclined in a manner that a distant side of the support 1, relative to the space 106, is higher than a proximate side of the support 1, relative to the space 106. This embodiment can be seen in Fig. 4. An advantage of this inclined orientation of the support 1 is that it is more ergonomic in comparison to a horizontal orientation of the support 1, in terms of, for example, relieving stress exerted on a body of a user of the support 1.

[078] Any mechanism known in the art for inclining the support 1 in the aforementioned manner is under the scope of the present subject matter. Thus, according to one embodiment, illustrated in Fig. 4, the support 1 further comprises a base 117 having a triangular side shape that inclines the support 1 in the manner described above. Another exemplary mechanism for inclining the support 1 can be legs attached to the distant side of the support 1, relative to the space 116. The legs elevate the distant side of the support 1, while the proximate side of the support 1, relative to the space 116, is lower.

[079] According to a further embodiment, a degree of incline of the support 1 is adjustable as desired by the user. Any mechanism known in the art for adjusting the degree of incline of the support 1 is under the scope of the present subject matter. For example, the height of the legs that are attached to the distant side of the support 1, relative to the space 116, can be adjusted. An exemplary adjustable leg can have a form of a screw that is configured to be screwed into the support 1 or out of the support 1. Another exemplary adjustable leg can be a foldable leg configured to fold in various heights, thus inclining the support 1 in various degrees.

[080] According to one embodiment, the size of the keyboard support 112 fits the size of a standard computer keyboard 20. Thus, the keyboard support 112 is configured to support a computer keyboard 20 having a standard size. A person skilled in the ait would appreciate, of- course, that the keyboard support 112 is also configured to support a computer keyboard 20 smaller in size than the keyboard support 112. According to another embodiment, the keyboard support 112 is configured to support a computer keyboard 20 larger in size than the keyboard support 112. Any mechanism known in the art for supporting a computer keyboard 20 larger, in size, than the keyboard support 112, is under the scope of the present subject matter. An exemplary such mechanism is illustrated hereinafter in Figs. 5A-B. [081] Fig. 5 A schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a keyboard support comprising at least one extender.

[082] Fig. 5B schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a keyboard support comprising at least one extender, supporting a computer keyboard larger that the keyboard support.

[083] According to one embodiment, the keyboard support 112 further comprises at least one extender 118. According to another embodiment, the at least one slidable height adjustor 120, described for example in Fig. 3 A, can be an at least one extender 118. For example, the keyboard support 112 illustrated in Fig. 5A comprises two extenders 118. According to another embodiment, the at least one extender 118 is configured to extend beyond the keyboard support 112, and thus support a computer keyboard 20 that is larger than the keyboard support 112. A person skilled in the art would appreciate that for this purpose the keyboard support 1 12 has to be open at its distant side, relative to the space 116, in order to allow extension of the at least one extender 118 beyond the keyboard support 112. According to yet another embodiment, the extension of the size of the keyboard support 112 by the at least one extender 118 is reversible. In other words, when desired by the user, the size of the keyboard support 112 can return to its original size when using the at least one extender 118. This can be achieved by any mechanism known in the art.

[084] For example, according to one exemplary embodiment, the at least one extender 118 can be foldable. According to this embodiment, the at least one extender 118 can be in a folded state, not influencing the size of the keyboard support. Alternatively, the at least one extender 118 can be in an unfolded state, extending beyond the keyboard support 112 and thus increasing the size of the keyboard support 112.

[085] According to another exemplary embodiment, the at least one extender 118 can be detachable. According to this embodiment, when the at least one extender 118 is not attached to the keyboard support 112, the keyboard support 112 has its original size. Alternatively, when the at least one extender 118 is attached to the keyboard support 112, the size of the keyboard support 112 is extended.

[086] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, illustrated in Fig. 5 A, the at least one extender 118 is slidable and is configured to be in a shrunken state and in an extended state, further configured to slide between the states. In the shrunken state, seen for example in Fig. 1, the extender 118 does not extend beyond the keyboard support 112, and the keyboard support has its original size. In the extended state, seen for example in Fig. 5A, the extender 118 extends beyond the keyboard support 112, thus increasing the size of the keyboard support 112.

[087] As can be seen in Fig. 5B, the keyboard support 112 and the at least one extender 118 in the extended state, can support a computer keyboard 20 that is larger than the standard size of a computer keyboard 20, and the original size of the keyboard support 112, An exemplary computer keyboard 20 that is larger than the standard computer keyboard 20 can be, for example, a keyboard 20 of a laptop computer.

[088] Fig. 6 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, a front perspective view of a support placed on a working surface and supporting a computer keyboard and a mouse.

[089] Fig. 6 illustrates a support 1 placed on a working surface 500. In this embodiment, a desk as an exemplary working surface 500 is illustrated. A computer keyboard 20 is placed on the keyboard support 112, and a mouse 30 is placed on the right mouse support 110. Alternatively, the mouse 30 can be placed on the left mouse support 108. In addition, a computer monitor can be placed on the working surface 500 beyond the support 1, in relation to the space 106 of the support 1, where a user is present, for example seated.

[090] As described above, the support 1 can be placed on the working surface 500 as desired by the user, including in a manner in which the left forearm support 102 and the right forearm support 104 extend beyond an edge of the working surface 500, as illustrated in Fig. 6. In this orientation, the user can sit in front of the working surface 50, in the space 106 of the support 1, and work with the computer keyboard 20 and the mouse 30 while getting full support to his entire forearms. Alternatively, when desired, the support 1 can be placed on the working surface 500 in any other orientation, for example fully on the working Surface, while the first forearm support 102 and the second forearm support 104 are also placed on the working surface 500.

[091] As can be seen in Fig. 6, the center of typewriter keys area 22 of the computer keyboard 20 is aligned with the center mark 114 of the support 1. As a result, the center of the typewriter keys area 22 is aligned with a center line of a user positioned in the space 106, which is ergonomically preferable.

[092] As can be further seen in Fig. 6, the height of the upper surface of the computer keyboard 20 is aligned with the surfaces of the mouse supports and the forearm supports. This position is also ergonomically preferable. This alignment of height can be achieved either by placing the computer keyboard 20 on the keyboard support 112, or by any mechanism known in the art, as described herein.

[093] Figs. 7A-B schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, a top view and a side view of a supporting desk 600.

[094] According to one embodiment, the supporting desk 600 comprises a support 1 part connected to a desk having a role of a working surface 500 part. It should be noted though that the term“supporting desk 600” should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present subject matter. Any type of working surface 500, for example a table, can become a supporting desk 600 by connecting it with a support 1. Furthermore, the working surface 500 part can be a table that its height is adjustable, as can be seen in Fig. 7B.

[095] According to one embodiment, the support 1 part of the supporting desk 600 comprises all the embodiments od the support 1 described herein, except that instead of being placed on a working surface 500, the support 1 is connected to the working surface 500, while together the form the supporting desk 600.

[096] According to one embodiment, the side of the support 1 part that is distant from the space 106 is pivotally connected to the working surface 500 part. Thus, the surface of the support 1 part can be in line with the surface of the working support 500 part, as illustrated in Fig. 7A. Alternatively, the support 1 part is configured to be inclined relative to the working surface 500 part, when while inclined the support 1 part is lower than the working surface 500 part, as illustrated in Fig. 7B. According to a further embodiment, the working surface 500 part is substantially horizontal relative to the ground. According to yet a further embodiment, the working surface 500 part can be inclined in relation to the ground, similar to a drafting table as known in the art. According to an additional embodiment, the angle between the support 1 part and the working surface 500 can be any angle that is suitable and comfortable for a user of the supporting desk 600. According to yet an additional embodiment, the angle between the support 1 part and the working surface 500 part can be between substantially 0-10°.

[097] Fig. 7 A further illustrate a keyboard support cover 130 covering the keyboard support 112, according to embodiments described above.

[098] Fig. 7C schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, a side perspective view of a supporting desk and a wheelchair in front of the supporting desk.

[099] According to one embodiment, the supporting desk 600 is suitable for usage by a user sitting on wheelchair 700. Moreover, the supporting desk 600 is advantageous over a standard prior art working surface 500, like a table and a desk, since it allows the user to sit close to the computer keyboard 20 and mouse 30, due to the opening 106 of the support 1 part.

[100] According to one embodiment, there is provided a combination of a support 1 and a computer keyboard 20. In other words, the support 1 is manufactured in combination with a computer keyboard 20. In other words, the support 1 is attached to the computer keyboard 20. This embodiment is illustrated, for example, in Fig. 2. According to another embodiment, in the combination of support 1 and computer keyboard 20, the support 1 is rigid. According to a preferred embodiment, in the combination of support 1 and computer keyboard 20, the support 1 is collapsible, as described hereinafter.

[101] According to one embodiment, the support 1 is rigid, as described above. According to another embodiment, the support 1 is collapsible. All the embodiments of the support 1 described above pertain also to the collapsible support 1 described hereinafter. An advantage of a collapsible support 1 is that when not in use the collapsible support 1 can be collapsed and stored while occupying little space. Another advantage of the collapsible support 1 is that it is portable. A user can collapse the collapsible support 1 and carry it with him to other places, since the collapsible support 1 in the collapsed state is small and compact. Yet another advantage of the collapsible support 1 is that its dimensions and orientation can be adjusted according to a user’s needs and desires. For example, the distance between the left forearm support 102 and the right forearm support 104 can be adjusted, for example, by providing rails in which they can slide. This allows adjustment of the position of the forearm supports to the dimensions of the user and to his preferences. Similarly, the distance between parts of the keyboard support 112, that will be described hereinafter, can be adjusted, for example, by providing rails in which they can slide. This allows adjustment of the size of the keyboard support 112 to the size of the computer keyboard 20 that is to be supported by the keyboard support 112.

[102] Any mechanism known in the art for rendering the support 1 collapsible is under the scope of the present subject matter. Hereinafter, an exemplary mechanism for rendering the support 1 collapsible is described. In this exemplary mechanism, the collapsible support 1 comprises several parts that are configured to assemble to form a whole support 1 and collapse to bring the collapsible support 1 to a collapsed state lt should be emphasized again that the embodiments of the collapsible support 1 described hereinafter are exemplary only, and that any mechanism for collapsing the collapsible support 1 and any type of parts of the collapsible support 1 are under the scope of the present subject matter.

[103] Fig. 8 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective exploded view of a collapsible support 1.

[104] According to one embodiment, the separate parts of the collapsible support 1, illustrated in Fig. 8, are configured to assemble to form a whole collapsible support 1 that is functional, namely can be used during an operation of a computer. According to another embodiment, the collapsible support comprises a left forearm support 102; a right forearm support 104; a forearm supports connector 103 configured to connect the left forearm support 102 with the right forearm support; a mouse support 109; a left lower keyboard support 112A; a left upper keyboard support 112B connected to the left lower keyboard support 112A; a right lower keyboard support 112C; a right upper keyboard support 112D connected to the right lower keyboard support 112C; and at least one height adjustor 121, preferably multiple height adjustors 121.

[105] Fig. 9 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, an upper perspective view of a folded forearm supports connector 103 connected to a left forearm support 102.

[106] According to one embodiment, the forearm supports connector 103 is foldable. According to another embodiment, the forearm supports connector 103 comprises a connector pivot 103-2 about which the forearm supports connector 103 is configured to fold as indicated with arrow 902 in Fig. 9. According to a further embodiment, the forearm support connector 103 is separated by the connector pivot 103-2 to a left forearm support connector 103A and a right forearm support connector 103B. According to yet a further embodiment, the left forearm support connector 103A is configured to connect to the left forearm support 102, and the right forearm support connector 103B is configured to connect to the right forearm support 104. Any mechanism known in the art for connecting the forearm support connector 103 to the left forearm support 102 and the right forearm support 104 is under the scope of the present subject matter. According to one exemplary embodiment, the left forearm support 102 comprises a rail 102-2 configured to accommodate the left forearm support connector 103 A, while the left forearm support connector 103 A is configured to slide into the rail 102-2 of the left forearm support 102. Similarly, the right forearm support 104 comprises a rail 104-2 configured to accommodate the right forearm support connector 103B, while the right forearm support connector 103B is configured to slide into the rail 104-2 of the right forearm support 104. This embodiment further allows sliding of either the left forearm support 102 along the left forearm support connector 103 A, or the right forearm support 104 along the right forearm support connector 103B, or both, thus allowing adjustment of a distance between the left forearm support 102 and the right forearm support 104, or in other words, adjustment of a size of the space 106, for example for fitting with a user’s size.

[107] According to one embodiment, the forearm supports connector 103 is straight, as illustrated for example in Fig. 8. According to another embodiment, the forearm supports connector 103 is bent, namely there is an angle smaller than 180° between the left forearm support connector 103 A and a right forearm support connector 103B, giving the forearm supports connector 103 a V-like shape. As a result, the left forearm support 102 and the right forearm support 104 are angled one in relation to the other, rendering them suitable for using an angled computer keyboard 20, for example a Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard.

[108] Fig. 10 schematically illustrates, according to an exemplary embodiment, a bottom perspective view of a left forearm support 102 and a right forearm support 104.

[109] According to one embodiment, the right forearm support 104 is configured to connect to the right lower keyboard support 112C. Any mechanism known in the art for connecting the right forearm support 104 with the right lower keyboard support 1 12C is under the scope of the present subject matter. An exemplary mechanism is illustrated in Fig. 10. According to a further embodiment, the right forearm support 104 comprises a rail 150 and the right lower keyboard support 112C comprises a rail 150, wherein both rails 150 are configured to engage one with the other, and thus connect the right forearm support 104 with the right lower keyboard support 112C. Similarly, the left forearm support 102 is configured to connect to the left lower keyboard support 112A.

[110] Figs. 11A-H schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, perspective views of various stages of assembling of the collapsible support 1.

[111] Fig. HA illustrates the collapsible support 1 in a fully collapsed state, when it is compactly collapsed. At this fully collapsed state the collapsible support 1 can be stored for example while occupying a minimal space.

[112] Figs. 11 B and 1 1C illustrate the collapsible support 1 in a loose collapsed state, for example during an early stage of assembling the collapsible support 1 and making it ready for use.

[113] Fig. 11D illustrates the collapsible support 1 in a partially open state, for example during an advanced stage of assembling the collapsible support 1 and making it ready for use. Arrows 904 and 906 in Fig. 11D designate the directions of folding and unfolding of the collapsible support 1 at this stage.

[114] Fig. 11E illustrates a more advanced stage of the assembling of the collapsible support 1 , showing a bottom perspective view of the collapsible support 1. At this stage the left forearm support 102 and the right forearm support 104 are spread out, while the parts of the keyboard support 112 are still folded.

[115] Fig. 11F illustrates a more advanced stage of the assembling of the collapsible support 1 , showing a bottom perspective view of the collapsible support 1. At this stage, the right upper keyboard support 112D is partially opened. As can be seen, each of the left upper keyboard support 112B and the right upper keyboard support 112D, comprises a foldable leg 113 that is configured to be fully folded, or partially folded in various levels, thus determining various inclines of the keyboard support 1 12. Fig. 11F illustrates the foldable leg 113 of the right upper keyboard support 112D in an open state and the leg 113 of the left upper keyboard support 112B in a folded, or closed state. Each of the foldable legs 113 further comprises a fixer 1 13- 2 configured to fix the foldable leg 113 in a certain state of opening. [116] Fig. 11G illustrates a more advanced stage of the assembling of the collapsible support 1, showing a bottom perspective view of the collapsible support 1. At this stage, the fixer 113- 2 of the leg 113 of the right upper keyboard support 112D is fixed in a desired state, while the leg 113 of the left upper keyboard support 112B is still folded. Another embodiment that is illustrated in Fig. 11G is that the left lower keyboard support 112A is slidable along the left forearm support 102, either to the right or to the left, as indicated with arrow 912. This embodiment can be achieved, for example, by providing rails 150 to the left lower keyboard support 112A and the left forearm support 102 that correspond one to the other and allow sliding one over the other. Similarly, the right lower keyboard support 1 12C is slidable along the right arm support 104, either to the right or to the left, as indicated with arrow 912. This embodiment can be achieved, for example, by providing rails 150 to the right lower keyboard support 112C and the right forearm support 104 that correspond one to the other and allow sliding one over the other.

[117] Fig. 11H illustrates a more advanced stage of the assembling of the collapsible support 1, showing a bottom perspective view of the collapsible support 1. At this stage, the legs 113 of both the left upper keyboard support 112B and the right upper keyboard support 112D are opened at a desired level and their fixers 113-2 are fixed.

[118] Figs. 12A-C schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, perspective views of a collapsible support 1 that is configured to support a large computer keyboard 20.

[119] According to one embodiment, the keyboard support 112 is configured to support a large computer keyboard 20, for example a laptop. Fig. 12A illustrates a side perspective view of a collapsible support 1 that is assembled in a manner configured to support a large computer keyboard. As can be seen, both the lower keyboard supports 112A and 112C and both the upper keyboard supports 112B and 112D are spread out, while their legs 113 are open and support them. Fig, 12B illustrates an upper perspective view of the collapsible support 1 at this state. Fig. 12C illustrates an upper perspective view of the collapsible support 1 at this stage, supporting a laptop as an example of a large computer keyboard 20. Thus, the large keyboard support 20 is supported by both the lower keyboard supports 112A and 112C and both the upper keyboard supports 112B and 112D that are spread out. [120] In addition, Figs. 12A-C illustrate a mouse support 109 that is placed at a right side of the keyboard support 112. If desired, the mouse support 109 can be placed at a left side of the keyboard support 112. Fig. 12C illustrates a mouse 30 supported by the mouse support 109. According to one embodiment, the mouse support 109 can be moved to the right or to the left, as indicated with arrow 914 shown in Fig. 12 A, when placed at the right side of the keyboard support 112, as illustrated for example in Fig. 12B, or when placed at the left side of the keyboard support 112. This embodiment can be achieved, for example, by providing rails 160 to the mouse support 109 and the corresponding parts of the keyboard support 112, on which the mouse support 109 can slide. The rails 160 can be also configured to hold the mouse support 109 in place.

[121] Figs. 13A-D schematically illustrate, according to an exemplary embodiment, perspective views of a collapsible support 1 that is configured to support a standard computer keyboard 20.

[122] According to one embodiment, the keyboard support 112 is configured to support a standard computer keyboard 20. For this purpose, the lower keyboard supports 112A and 112C are enough to support the standard computer keyboard 20. Fig. 13 A illustrates a side perspective view of a collapsible support 1 that is in a process of fitting it to a standard computer keyboard 20. The starting point is a collapsible support configured to support a large computer support, as illustrated for example in Fig. 12A. In order to fit the keyboard support 112 to a standard computer keyboard 20, the upper keyboard supports 112B and 112D have to be folded. Arrows 908 and 910 in Fig. 13A indicate the direction of folding of the upper keyboard supports 112B and 112D, respectively. Fig. 13A shows the right upper keyboard support 112D that is already folded in direction 910, while the left upper keyboard support 1 12B is at an early stage of folding in direction 908. In Fig. 13B both upper keyboard support 112B and 112D are folded. Fig. 13C illustrates a standard computer keyboard 20 supported by the lower keyboard supports 112A and 112C, and Fig. 13D shows in addition a mouse 30 supported by the mouse support 109 that is placed at the right side of the keyboard support 112.

[123] It is appreciated that certain features of the subject matter, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the subject matter, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub combination.

[124] Although the subject matter has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A support for manual computer input devices and upper limbs, the support comprising: either one, or two, forearm supports;

a keyboard support positioned distantly from each of the either one, or two, forearm supports; and

a space configured to allow presence of a user inside the space, wherein the either one, or two, forearm supports are aside the space.

2. The support of claim 1, comprising a left forearm support and a right forearm support.

3. The support of claim 2, wherein the space is between the left forearm support and the right forearm support.

4. The support of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising either one, or two, mouse supports, distantly from the either one, or two, forearm supports and aside the keyboard support.

5. The support of claims 4, comprising a left mouse support and a right mouse support.

6. The support of any one of claims 1-5, further comprising a center mark marking substantially a center of the space.

7. The support of claim 6, wherein the keyboard support is positioned in such a way that a center of a typewriter keys area of a computer keyboard placed in the keyboard support is aligned with the center mark.

8. The support of any one of claims 1-7, wherein a surface of the keyboard support is lower than a surface of the either one, or two, forearm supports.

9. The support of claim 8, wherein the surface of the keyboard support is lower than the surface of the either one, or two, forearm supports in a manner that a surface of a computer keyboard that is placed on the keyboard support is in line with the surface of the either one, or two, forearm supports.

10. The support of claim 8 or 9, wherein a height of a computer keyboard placed on the keyboard support is adjustable.

11. The support of any one of claims 1-10, further comprising a keyboard support cover configured to be placed on the keyboard support and cover the keyboard support.

12. The support of claim 11, wherein when the keyboard support cover is placed on the keyboard support, a height of the keyboard support cover is similar to a height of the either one, or two, forearms supports.

13. The support of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the support is configured to be inclined in a manner that a distant side of the support, relative to the space, is higher than a proximate side of the support, relative to the space.

14. The support of claim 13, wherein a degree of incline of the support is adjustable.

15. The support of any one of claims 1-14, further comprising at least one extender configured to extend beyond the keyboard support, and thus support a computer keyboard that is larger than the keyboard support.

16. A supporting desk comprising a support part according to any one of claims 1-15, connected to a desk.

17. The supporting desk of claim 16, wherein the support part is pivotally connected to the desk.

18. The supporting desk of claim 17, wherein the support part is configured to be inclined relative to the desk, when while inclined the support part is lower than the desk.

19. A combination of a support according to any one of claims 1-15 and a computer keyboard.

20. A collapsible support according to any one of claims 1-15.

21. The collapsible support of claim 20, wherein a distance between a left forearm support and a right forearm support is adjustable.

22. The collapsible support of claim 20 or 21, wherein a position of a mouse support is adjustable.

23. The collapsible support of any one of claims 20-22, wherein a degree of incline of the keyboard support is adjustable.

24. The collapsible support of any one of claims 20-23, wherein a size of the keyboard support is adjustable.