CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to Application No. 63/191,507, filed May 21, 2021, entitled “COLLAPSIBLE COMPUTER WORKSTATION”.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to computer workstations, and in particular to collapsible computer workstations.

[0003] Esports (also known as electronic sports, e-sports, or eSports) is a form of competition using video games. With participation by professional gamers and the advent of live streaming, esports has seen a large surge in popularity. In 2021, for example, it is estimated that the total audience of esports will grow to 474 million, with revenue increasing to more than $1 billion (USD).

[0004] Esports often takes the form of organized, multiplayer video game competitions, particularly between professional players, individually or as teams. Examples of esports include Battle Royale, Counter-Strike, Fortnite, and League of Legends. As esports has evolved from a participant-only sport to a professional and spectator sport, a need has arisen for venues to host competitions.

[0005] A single live tournament may have upwards of 100 players competing simultaneously, requiring lots of equipment. Particularly, the host venue may supply hundreds of computers, tables, chairs, and the electronics and internet connections to efficiently and robustly run the competition.

[0006] Existing tables tend to be bulky, not stackable, not modular, and lack connections for the electronics.

[0007] Computers and displays must be delivered and set up with the tables. Existing tables lack the computer hardware, electronics for the computers, and displays. Additionally, the cables for the display and computers are not well managed.

[0008] Accordingly, there is a need for improved workstations, and in particular, for improved workstations having features and aspects described herein.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A computer workstation includes a frame, a table top, a plurality of legs, a cavity, computer electronics arranged in the cavity, and a display. The workstation includes a first open configuration in which the workstation stands upright on the legs and the display is positioned substantially perpendicular to the table top, and a second collapsed configuration in which the legs and display are folded into the table top.

[0010] In embodiments, the workstation further includes an elevated left side shelf and an elevated right side shelf arranged on the table top defining a region between the shelves where the display is stored when the display is in the folded configuration. In embodiments, the shelf comprises a dashboard including a plurality of connectors, knobs, levers and/or switches for power, audio, volume, USB, and/or ethemet.

[0011] In embodiments, the workstation includes a plurality of lights. Preferably, the lights are arranged along one or more of the edges or sides of the workstation. Lights may also be incorporated into the shelves to provide ambient lighting serving to non-disruptively illuminate a player’s face during play.

[0012] In embodiments, the workstation comprises a skirt, detachably couplable to the rear or back of the workstation in the first open configuration. In embodiments, the skirt may also be applied as a cover or lid to the workstation in the collapsed configuration. Optionally, the skirt comprises an L-shaped feature for connecting the skirt to the tabletop in the open configuration, and for stacking workstations on top of each other in the collapsed configuration. Optionally, the skirt may include lights or a display.

[0013] In embodiments, the workstation comprises at least one cable management conduit laterally extending from the left side to the right side. Optionally, the conduit is formed by a removable back plate or cover. The cover may have incorporated therein features or cutouts, serving to provide custom graphics or logos as well as venting. The conduit may include lights, operable to illuminate the conduit and cutouts.

[0014] In embodiments, a workstation array comprises a plurality of workstations arranged in a linear formation extending from a first workstation to a last workstation. A continuous cable management conduit extends from the first workstation to the last workstation. The shape of the linear array may vary. In embodiments, the shape of the linear array is arcuate. Optionally, the array comprises a spacer arranged between adjacent workstations. Preferably, the spacer is pie-shaped and serves to curve the array into an arc depending on the angle of the spacer. In embodiments, the angle of the spacer ranges from 10-30 degrees.

[0015] In embodiments, the workstation array comprises a vertical divider between adjacent workstations. Preferably, the vertical divider is mounted to the spacer. The divider can be opaque or transparent, and smooth for wiping clean. The divider serves to provide privacy for the players, and limit transmission of air or vapor borne viruses. [0016] In embodiments, the workstation array includes an end hub at one end of the workstation array. The end hub can include a housing and one or more power outlets, ethernet ports, and other supply lines for the individual workstations along the row.

[0017] In embodiments, each workstation array comprises 4-8 workstations.

[0018] The description, objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description to follow, together with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0019] FIG. 1A is a top front perspective view of a collapsible computer workstation in an open configuration in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0020] FIG. IB is an enlarged view of a portion of the collapsible computer workstation shown in FIG. 1A in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0021] FIG. 2A is a top left side perspective view of a collapsible computer workstation in an open configuration in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0022] FIG. 2B is an illustration of the computer workstation shown in FIG. 2A in a collapsed configuration in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0023] FIG. 2C is an illustration of arranging a plurality of collapsed workstations in a rack in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0024] FIG. 2D is an illustration of a plurality of racks of workstations in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0025] FIG. 3 depicts a plurality of workstations arranged in a linear array in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0026] FIG. 4A is a front perspective view of another workstation in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0027] FIG. 4B is a rear exploded view of another workstation in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0028] FIG. 5 is an illustration of a row of workstations in an arcuate formation in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0029] FIG. 6 is an enlarged side rear perspective view of a portion of the workstation shown in FIG. 4B;

[0030] FIG. 7 is a top side perspective view of a divider for separating adjacent workstations in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and [0031] FIGS. 8A-8B are left side and front views, respectively, of the divider shown in FIG. 7. DET AILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0032] Before the present invention is described in detail, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular variations set forth herein as various changes or modifications may be made to the invention described and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other several embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s) to the objective(s), spirit or scope of the present invention. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the claims made herein.

[0033] Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recited events which is logically possible, as well as the recited order of events. Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it is understood that every intervening value, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the invention. Also, it is contemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein.

[0034] All existing subject matter mentioned herein (e.g., publications, patents, patent applications and hardware) is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety except insofar as the subject matter may conflict with that of the present invention (in which case what is present herein shall prevail).

[0035] Reference to a singular item, includes the possibility that there are plural of the same items present. More specifically, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “said” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation. Last, it is to be appreciated that unless defined otherwise, 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 invention belongs.

[0036] OVERVIEW [0037] FIG. 1A is an illustration of a collapsible workstation 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The workstation 10 is shown having a top 20, shelves 22a, 22b, legs 32, 34, and a display 40 arranged substantially perpendicular to the top 20.

[0038] With reference to FIG. IB, which is an enlarged detail view of a portion of the workstation shown in FIG. 1A, a dashboard 60 is arranged between shelve 22a and top 20.

The dashboard 60 may include various controls and lights such as, without limitation, power switch, audio connector, volume control, ports (e.g., USB ports for mouse, keyboard, etc.), and connector for smart phone.

[0039] The top 20 shown in FIGS. 1A-1B also shows a recess or cavity 62 for accommodating computer electronics 70. Examples of computer electronics include, without limitation, computers, circuit boards, processors, memory and storage devices, graphic cards, sound cards, network cards, communication interface devices, power supply, cooling fan, etc. [0040] The cavity and computer electronics are shown covered by shield 72. Shield 72 is preferably transparent or translucent.

[0041] The embodiment shown in FIG. 1A also includes table lights 52, 54, and 74. The table lights are operable to be activated, change intensity, and to change color.

[0042] With reference to FIGS. 2A, 2B, a computer workstation 10 is shown being transformed from a first upright open configuration 10 to a collapsed compact configuration 10’, respectively.

[0043] Particularly, with reference to step (A), display 40 is shown being folded towards the top 20, between shelves 22a, 22b. In embodiments, stmt 42 is rotatably engaged to the table via a hinge member. The shelves and display are shaped and cooperate with one another to fit the display between the shelves when the display is collapsed. An exemplary size for the display is a 27” monitor, however, the invention is not so limited and the size of the display may vary.

[0044] Next, with reference to steps (B) and (C), legs 32, 34 are sequentially folded towards top 20.

[0045] Collectively, the table shown in FIGS 2A-2B may be collapsed in 3 steps or folds, and in less than one minute for one person to reduce the workstation from the open configuration to the collapsed configuration.

[0046] FIG. 2B shows the resulting low-profile, compact or collapsed workstation configuration 10’ in which the legs 32,34, display 40, and display strut 42 are arranged substantially parallel to the table top 20. In embodiments, the thickness of the components of the workstation are set such that thickness (T) of the collapsed workstation configuration 10’ is less than 12 inches, and preferably less than 10 inches, and most preferably less than 8 inches.

[0047] FIG. 2C illustrates loading a plurality of collapsed workstations 10’ into a rack 90 in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Rack 90 is shown having a frame 92 and wheels 94 attached to the base of the frame. The frame is shown holding up to 8 workstations in a horizontal orientation. However, it is to be understood that the invention is not intended to be so limited and the racks may accommodate more or less computer workstations as well as be adapted to arrange the workstations horizontally, vertically, stacked or otherwise.

[0048] With reference to FIG. 2D, embodiments of the invention include a set 94 of racks 90 of computer workstations. The racks 90 preferably have wheels to be conveniently rolled on and off of a delivery vehicle such as truck 98.

[0049] FIG. 3 shows three computer workstations 110, 120, 130 connected in a straight line or array 100. Workstation 110 makes a first end station, workstation 130 acts as a second end station, and workstation 120 is shown intermediate the first and second end stations. Although only one workstation 120 is shown intermediate the end stations, it is to be understood that any number of workstations may be connected between the first end station and second end station. An exemplary total number of workstations joined together in a linear array is 2-20, and more preferably 4-8, or in preferred embodiments 5-6.

[0050] The workstations may be joined to one another by a wide range of techniques including fasteners, grommets, rivets, detents/indents, tongue and grooves, hook and loops (e.g., Velcro), magnetic components, latches, buckles, etc.

[0051] In embodiments, each workstation includes a laterally extending through-channel or lumen (not shown) that extends from the left side to the right side. The lumen is incorporated into the rear of the table and terminates in an opening at each side. For example, with reference to FIG. 3, right side opening 133 is visible in workstation 130. The lumen may be used to hold or accommodate power cords, ethemet cables, and other types of cords, cables or lines.

[0052] FIGS. 4A-4B show another workstation 210 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention including a frame 212, shelf walls 214,216, top 220, accessory pad 221, shelves 222a, 222b, legs 232, 234, display stmt 242, hinge member 243, spacer 250, light arrays 252, 254, dashboards 260, 261, and computer electronics cavity 262.

[0053] The legs 232, 234 are shown as tubular construction, and preferably have telescoping functionality. As described herein, each leg cooperates with the frame 212 to form a collapsed low profile configuration for storage and transport. In embodiments, each leg 232, 234 is connected to the frame 212 by a leg hinge.

[0054] It is to be understood that the shape and number of legs may vary. Although the workstation is shown comprising one open-framed type leg per side, in other embodiments, the legs are enclosed and have a wall or panel-like construct. Optionally, the wall or panel may include graphics, lights, and other indicia similar to the skirt 236, discuss herein. Still in other embodiments, multiple discrete legs per side are fold-ably attached to the top. Additionally, each leg may incorporate or terminate in a base or foot.

[0055] The cavity 262 preferably is sized to accommodate at least one, more preferably at least two computer rack units as well as cable/cord storage on each side.

[0056] SKIRT

[0057] With reference again to FIG. 4B, workstation 210 includes a skirt 236, detachably coupled to the back of the frame 212. An L-shaped feature 237 in the skirt serves as a connector to the frame 212 in the open configuration. In embodiments, the outward side of the skirt 236 can include graphics, text, logos, as well as lights or a display screen (e.g., LED panel) to provide company logos, instructions, advertisements, game information, and/or other light effects.

[0058] In embodiments, the skirt 236 may also be adapted to cover (not shown) the workstation when the workstation is in the collapsed configuration. The L-shaped portion contacts the table 20, and the flat portion of the skirt lays flat on the upper shelves. In a sense, the skirt serves as a riser for evenly stacking collapsed workstations.

[0059] SPACERS

[0060] Spacer 250 is shown having a pie-shaped body and may be fastened to either side of the frame 212 of the workstation 210. The presence of the spacer 250 creates an angle (theta) between adjacent workstations. The angle (theta) may vary widely. In embodiments, angle (theta) is less than 60 degrees, and more preferably is between 5 to 45 degrees, and in particular embodiments is between 10-30 degrees. Consequently, and with reference to FIG.

5, a linear pattern of workstations may be arranged in a curved or arcuate formation 280. However, the invention is not intended to be so limited. The workstation array pattern may be adjusted based on the description herein to form a wide variety of linear patterns such as, for example, straight, arcuate, sinusoidal, non-linear, and circular.

[0061] Additionally, in other embodiments, the sides of the spacer are parallel (not shown), and maintain adjacent workstations in a straight line to one another. The spacer merely acts as an extension to separate one workstation from an adjacent workstation by the width of the spacer. In embodiments, the spacer has parallel sides and its width ranges from 2- 12 inches. It is to be understood, however, that the width of the spacer may vary and the invention is not intended to be so limited except as recited in any appended claims.

[0062] With reference again to FIG. 4B, the rear of the table 210 is shown having a laterally extending cover 282, that forms a channel with the rear side of the frame 212. The channel or passageway terminates in an opening 284. The working lumen can be used for cable management and illumination. Examples of cables include without limitation power cables, light cables, internet cables, signal cables, audio cables, telephone cables, etc.

[0063] The cover 282 can include patterns and graphics 283. Lights may be added to the channel to illuminate the channel and graphics. The cover 282 in FIG. 4B also includes vents. [0064] Additionally, when a spacer (e.g., spacer 250) is combined with the table, the spacer may optionally include a lumen or channel (not shown) that aligns with opening 284. Thus, and as shown in FIG. 5, a continuous passageway (also referred to herein as a conduit) can be formed across the entire arcuate array 280 of tables and interposed spacers.

[0065] FIG. 6 shows an enlarged view of a portion of the table 210 viewed from the right rear side. Frame 212 and cover 282 are shown forming passageway 285. Aperture or opening 287 serves as an entrance to the cable channel. The embodiment shown in FIG. 6 has connectors 289 for mounting the cover 282 to frame 212. Examples of connectors include grommets, preferably rubber grommets, as well as screws, rivets, and other mechanism for joining such components as described herein. Preferably, the connectors are manually detachable to allow convenient access to the cables contained within the channel 285.

[0066] END HUBS

[0067] In embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 5, the workstation array 280 includes an end hub 270 . The end hub is shown having a narrow cabinet-like shape and is preferably sized to hold a number of components such as, for example, a power outlet strip and an ethemet hub. Indeed, the ports, connectors present in the end hub may be configured in a wide variety of ways to accommodate the gaming and arena needs for the event. Particularly, the end hub 270 is selected to accommodate the workstation array which typically shall include between 4-10 workstations.

[0068] In embodiments, each of the workstations 210, 213, etc. along a row 280 may be connected directly or daisy-chained to the left end hub 270. Thus, an entire row of workstations can be connected to power and the internet via a single end hub 270. [0069] Additionally, in embodiments, the end hub is constructed to be reversable and can be connected to either side of the workstation array 280 by simply flipping the end hub 180° and attaching it to the frame of the last workstation in the row.

[0070] It is also to be understood, however, that the electronics in the end hub are optional, and that in embodiments, electronics are not present in the end hubs. The hub merely acts as a wall for the row 280 and does not provide power, communication nor internet connectivity. [0071] Additionally, in embodiments, the workstation can include an end cap sized to lockingly fit into the aperture 284 formed between the frame 212 and the cover 282 of the workstation 210. For example, the end cap may be a plastic or rubber grommet sized to locking fit into the aperture 284.

[0072] DIVIDERS

[0073] In embodiments, adjacent workstations are separated by a vertical divider. With reference to FIGS. 7-8B, an example of a divider 350 is shown comprising a vertical wall 360 extending from the body 370. The divider 350 serves to separate adjacent workstations.

[0074] The structure of the dividers may vary. In embodiments, the divider wall 360 is opaque and acts as a vanity shield between the players. The divider wall 360 is preferably made of material that is rigid, shatterproof, and conveniently cleanable by wiping with a disinfectant. As such, adding the shield-like divider limits the spread of vapor-transferable vims’ such as coronavirus as well as provides game-play privacy.

[0075] The height of the divider may vary. In embodiments the height of the divider wall (H) ranges from 1-4 feet, and more preferably ranges from 2-4 feet.

[0076] In embodiments, the divider wall 360 is rigid and removably fastened or interlocked to the spacer 370. For example, the body of the spacer may feature a groove or slots (not shown) in which a tongue or tab (not shown) protruding from the bottom of the divider is inserted to interconnect with the spacer. The connection type may vary and include, e.g., a snap or press fit. The connection may be temporary or permanent.

[0077] In other embodiments, the divider wall is integrally-formed with the spacer. For example, the divider wall and spacer may be formed as one integrated piece such as a molded plastic piece.

[0078] Other modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed embodiments of the invention without departing from the subject invention.