FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to systems for enabling communication between display units for use in a variety of environments.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In both indoor and outdoor working environments, display units are essential as they may serve as a gathering area for workers. More particularly, once a display unit has been transported to a given site, the display unit allows workers to refer to drawings, plans, and other important documents.

[0003] In addition, the health and safety regulations and regulatory provisions in various countries require certain documents to be posted and viewable at all times.

Examples of such documents include building permits and plans, safety plans, insurance certificates, worker manifests, and worker credentials.

[0004] However, the prior art consists of display units whose size and shape make

storage and transportation difficult. None of the prior art units provide a display unit that can be readily assembled and disassembled. In fact, many units require forklifts or other heavy machinery to transport to a site.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a display unit that can be easily transported to a given environment to store and display required documents and equipment. There is also a need for a display unit that is modular, i.e., the display unit can accommodate different items and display different varieties of items in a multitude of configurations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention provides a system for enabling communication between display units that can be assembled for indoor and outdoor environments, such as at construction sites. In accordance with one embodiment, the present invention provides a display unit as a kit to be transported to a site for assembly. In another embodiment, an assembled display unit can be transported to a site. The display unit may be a centralized location at a site for required or useful information and items to be posted, stored, modified, and made available to any user with access to the display unit.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for enabling

communication between devices, said system comprising: at least one display unit for connecting to a network; at least one other device for connecting to a network; and a network for enabling communication between devices; wherein the at least one display unit and the at least one other device are constructed and arranged to connect to the network allowing for communication between the at least one display unit and the at least one other device; wherein each display unit comprises: a container having a first opening; a tabletop for operatively attaching to the container at the first opening for use as a table; and a support frame for operatively mounting display means thereon; wherein the support frame is constructed and arranged to operatively couple to the container such that the support frame can support the display means mounted thereon; and wherein the tabletop and the support frame are constructed and arranged for storage.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described by reference to the following figures, in which identical reference numerals in different figures indicate identical elements and in which:

FIGURE 1 is an isometric view of the kit according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 2 is a top view of the kit showing the interior of the container according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 3 is a top view of the kit showing the interior of the container where various elements of the kit are organized and securely fitted within the container according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 4 is an isometric view of the assembled display unit according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 5A shows various elements of the display unit according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 5B shows various other elements of the display unit, such as the display means, according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 6 is a front view of the display unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 7 is a back view of the display unit according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 8 is a side view of the assembled display unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 9 is a front isometric view of the partially assembled display unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 10A is a top isometric view of the tabletop; FIGURE 10B is a bottom isometric view of the tabletop; FIGURE IOC is a bottom view of the tabletop;

FIGURE 11A is an isometric view of the kit according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 11B is an isometric view of the display unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 12 is an isometric view of the kit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 13 is an isometric view of the display unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 14 is an isometric view of the kit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 15 is an isometric view of the display unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 16 is an isometric view of the display unit according to yet another embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 17 is an isometric view of the display unit according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 18 is an isometric view of the display unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGURE 19 shows the system.

[0009] The Figures are not to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular elements while related elements may have been eliminated to prevent obscuring novel aspects. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] The terms "coupled" and "connected", along with their derivatives, may be used herein. It should be understood that these terms are not intended as synonyms for each other. Rather, in particular embodiments, "connected" may be used to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact with each other. "Coupled" may be used to indicate that two or more elements are in either direct or indirect (with other intervening elements between them) physical or electrical contact with each other, or that the two or more elements co-operate or interact with each other (e.g. as in a cause and effect relationship).

[0011] The present invention advantageously provides a compact, portable, and easily transportable kit that assembles into a multi-purpose display unit.

[0012] FIGURES 1 through 16 show schematic representations of various embodiments of the present invention and will now be described in greater detail.

[0013] FIGURE 1 shows a kit 100 according to one embodiment of the present

invention. As shown in FIGURE 1, the kit 100 for storing a display unit is comprised of a container 105, a tabletop 110, and a support frame 120. The container has a first opening 130. The tabletop 110 operatively attaches to the container 105 at the first opening 130 for use as a table. The support frame 120 is constructed and arranged for operatively mounting a displays means 115 thereon. The support frame 120 is also constructed and arranged for operatively coupling to the container 105 such that the support frame 120 can support the display means 115 mounted thereon. The container 105 may be partially or fully hollow, or compartmentalized, to allow for storage of the tabletop 110, the support frame 120, and the display means 115.

For clarity, elements of the kit may be stored and removed through the first opening 130. However, as described later, other openings are envisaged. It is also noted that the support frame 120 is preferably collapsible for easier storage inside the container 105.

FIGURE 1 also shows a mounting frame 125 in the kit 100. In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, the display means 115 may include the mounting frame 125 to further support displayed items. The mounting frame 125 may be collapsible into the container and is constructed and arranged to couple to the support frame.

To clarify, the support frame 120 and the mounting frame 125 may be two separate frames. Either or both frames may be collapsible. As well, both frames may be a unitary frame that may also be disassembled and stored in the container 105.

FIGURE 2 shows a top view of the kit 100 showing the interior of the container 105 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Organizational brackets 205 can be stored in the container for easy organization and storage of other elements of the kit 100.

FIGURE 3 shows a top view of the kit 100 showing the inside of the container 105 with various elements of the kit 100 being stored inside.

An important feature of the current invention is the ability to store all of the elements of the kit 100 inside the container 105. This allows for ease of transportation and storage of the kit 100. FIGURE 4 shows a front isometric view of the display unit 400 assembled according to another embodiment of the present invention. The display unit 400 is comprised of the container 105, the tabletop 110, and the support frame 120. The container includes the first opening 130. The tabletop 110 is attached to the container 105 at the first opening 130 for use as a table. The support frame 120 is mounted to the display means 115 thereon and is operatively coupled to the container 105 such that the support frame 120 can support the display means 115 mounted thereon.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the kit comprises a support plate 505 (shown in FIGURES 5A) attached to the bottom of the container 105 or stored therein for attachment to the container when the display unit is assembled.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of wheels (shown in FIGURES 5A) is stored in the container 105 and operatively coupled to the container 105 when assembled for more readily moving the container 105.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the kit 100 includes at least one tabletop support beam (shown in FIGURES 5A) for operatively coupling to the tabletop 110 for structural support.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the display means may include any one of the following: a protective cover, a display monitor, a display monitor mount, at least one mounting board, a signage banner, at least one file organizer, an eyewash station, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a power bar, at least one organizational bracket, and a combination thereof (shown in FIGURES 5A, 5B). We should note that these items may be stored in the container or mounted to the display unit.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the kit 100 is sized to fit through a standard or non-standard doorway or entryway. Dimensions are fully customizable depending on the site requirements.

It should be noted that the container 105 of the display unit 400 may be constructed from a durable, lightweight material, suitable for indoor and outdoor construction sites, such as a fiberglass, strong polymer plastics, and metal. The display unit 400 may also be made from rust resistant materials and wood or other organic materials. The use of more rugged materials ensures that the kit 100 and the display unit 400 can withstand rough conditions, typically found on construction sites. The choice of materials also ensures that the kit 100 and the display unit 400 can withstand frequent transportation without suffering material deterioration. Furthermore, it should be understood that the container 105 may be made of suitable material for weight bearing items that are heavy or large.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the display unit 400 is sized to fit through a standard or non-standard doorway or entryway. Dimensions are fully customizable depending on the site requirements.

FIGURE 5A and FIGURE 5B, in combination, show various individual elements of the assembled display unit 400 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGURE 5A shows various assembled elements of the display unit 400 according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes the container 105, the tabletop 110, and a support plate 505 attached to the bottom of the container 105.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of wheels 530 may be operatively coupled to the container 105 for moving the container 105. Each wheel 530 may be coupled to a reinforcement plate 537 that may be connected to the bottom of the container 105 itself or to the support plate 505. A support plate reinforcement means 535 may be fastened under the support plate 505 providing for further support to the support plate 505 and the container 105.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the display unit 400 includes tabletop support beams 567 for operatively coupling to the tabletop 110 for structural support.

The container 110 may also include organizational brackets 205. Moreover, the container 105 may include side openings 510 on the sides on the container 105. In one embodiment of the present invention, the side openings 510 are located at the front of the container 105. A door 515 may be attached to the container at the side opening 510 to enable access to the container 105 through the side opening 510. A shelf 520, supported by a shelf support 525, may also be operatively coupled to the container. The shelf 520 provides for additional table surface area.

The display means 115 of the display unit 400 may include various pieces of equipment, depending on a user's requirements. Such equipment may be attached to the display unit for easy access. For instance, when the display unit is used on construction sites, an eyewash station 540, a first aid kit 545, and a fire extinguisher 550 may be attached to the container 105. Electrical power bars 555 may also be attached to the container 105.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the tabletop 110 may be formed of panels 560. Each panel, panel 560A and 560B, may include a locking means 565 to securely fasten panels 560A and 560B to each other. The locking means 565 of panels 560 may include a male and female locking mechanism. The surface area created by the locked panels 560 may correspond to the surface area of the first opening 130.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the surface area created by the locked panels 560 may exceed the surface area of the first opening 130 providing for further working area. Moreover, each panel 560 may rest on support beams 567 for better structural support of the panels 560.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, an e-size paper sheet 570 may be placed on top of the tabletop 110. The present invention contemplates a variety of paper sheet sizes and configurations.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, each wheel 530 may be a lockable wheel, allowing users to prevent the display unit 400 from rolling.

In another embodiment, the door 515 may possess a locking mechanism, allowing users to lock the door 515 if necessary.

In yet another embodiment, the container 105 may be made of reinforced plastic, or any material of similar or greater strength known to the skilled artisan. The support plate 505 may also be made of metal, such as steel, stainless steel, or lightweight aluminum, or any material of similar or of greater strength known to the skilled artisan.

In a further embodiment, a ring (not pictured), hook, or the like, may be attached to the container 105 or the support plate 505, allowing the display unit 400 to be secured in place with a rope, a chain, or any other type of cord known to the skilled artisan.

FIGURE 5B shows various elements the display unit 400, such as the display means 115. The display means 115 may include a mounting frame and may be attached to the display unit 400, allowing users to view or access equipment, tools, display monitors, display boards, file organizers, and other such items.

A mounting board 575, or multiple mounting boards 575A and 575B, may be mounted on either side of the mounting frame 125. Such boards may provide a greater surface area on which to display documents, equipment, and tools.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a display monitor 580 may be mounted onto the mounting board 575 using a display monitor mount 582. The display monitor may be include two-dimensional displays, such as but not limited to, cathode ray tube display (CRT), light-emitting diode display (LED), electroluminescent display (ELD), electronic paper, E-Ink, plasma display panel (PDP), liquid crystal display (LCD), high-Performance addressing display (HP A), thin-film transistor display (TFT), organic light-emitting diode display (OLED), surface-conduction electron-emitter display (SED), laser television, carbon nanotubes, quantum dot display, and interferometric modulator display (IMOD). Three-dimensional displays are also contemplated, such as but not limited to, swept- volume display, varifocal mirror display, emissive volume display, laser display, holographic display, and light field displays.

File organizers 585 may be attached to the mounting board 575 allowing for storage of documents. The equipment or tools being mounted onto the mounting board 575 may also be protected by a protective cover 590, which may be comprised of two attachable sides 590A and 590B, for sheltering the display means 115 from weather damage when the display unit 400 is used outside. A signage banner 595 may also be attached to the mounting frame 575.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the mounting board 575 may be a corkboard, a pegboard, a slatwall, a plywood board, or any other type of board known to the skilled artisan.

In yet another embodiment, corkboards, pegboards, slat walls, plywood boards, and any other type of board known to the skilled artisan, may be mounted on the mounting board 575.

In a further embodiment, cup holders and radio devices, such as walkie-talkies, may be mounted on or attached to the display unit 400.

FIGURE 6 shows a front view of the assembled display unit 400 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIGURE 6, the display means may be arranged behind the container 105. The tabletop 110 as shown in FIGURE 6 has a size substantially equal to or greater than the size of the first opening 130 of the container 105. This ensures that the first opening 130 is substantially covered, concealing and protecting documents or equipment inside the container 105. However, it should be readily understood by the skilled artisan that the tabletop 110 may partially cover the first opening 130.

The tabletop 110, as shown in FIGURE 6, may also be inclined relative to the first opening of the container 105. The incline may be helpful to a user for ergonomic, comfort, convenience or viewing purposes.

As further shown in FIGURE 6, the mounting frame 125 may be placed at the rear of the container 105. A display monitor 580 may also be attached to the mounting frame 125 using a display monitor mount. The mounting frame 125 may also be used to post documents such that documents are visible and accessible to users of the display unit 400. In addition, the display monitor 580 may be covered by the protective cover 590. The protective cover 590 may be transparent allowing outside viewers to see through the protective cover 590. Also, the protective cover 590 may be made of vacuum formed acrylic, or similar transparent and/or weather-proof material.

FIGURE 7 shows a back view of the display unit 400. As shown in this embodiment of the present invention, the display means 115 may include an eyewash station 540, a first aid kit 545, a fire extinguisher 550, and a power bar 555. These elements of the display means 115 may be located at the rear of the display unit 400. This allows a user of the display unit 400 to readily and easily access these pieces of equipment. Depending on the particular use of the display unit 400, other types of equipment may be attached onto the rear of the display unit 400.

In addition to power bars 555, a variety of other outlets may be attached to the display unit 400 or the container 105 in particular, such as Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) ports, Video Graphics Array (VGA) ports, or other digital, data, or electrical outlets that may be required.

Additionally, at least one handle 705 may be provided on either side of the support frame 120. The handles 705 allow a user to comfortably grip the display unit 400 when assembled or partially assembled.

FIGURE 8 shows a side view of the display unit 400 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Here the tabletop 110 extends beyond the area provided by the first opening of the container 105. This provides a greater surface area where users of the display unit 400 will have a sufficient amount of space to, for instance, draft or lay out architectural plans or any other type of document that requires a large surface area.

FIGURE 9 shows a front isometric view of the display unit 400 being partially assembled. In FIGURE 9, the tabletop 110 and the support beams 567 extend beyond the first opening 130 of the container 105.

FIGURE 10A shows a top isometric view of the tabletop 110. Figure 10B shows another isometric view of the tabletop 110. Figure IOC shows a bottom view of the tabletop 110. As discussed above, an embodiment of the present invention includes a tabletop 110 that may comprise two panels 560A and 560B. Each panel 560A and 560B includes a panel locking means 565. As shown in FIGURE 10A, the panel locking means 565 may be a male and female locking mechanism. It should be readily understood to the skilled artisan that the tabletop 110 may be unitary or may be made of at least two panels.

Also, as shown in FIGURE 10B, tabletop securing means 900 are used to secure the tabletop 110 onto the first opening 130. The securing means may be a variety of locking mechanisms as envisaged by the skilled artisan.

It should also be noted that the tabletop 110 may include grooves on its top surface. These grooves may temporarily store tools frequently used on drafting tables, such as pencils, markers, scales, etc.

FIGURE 11A shows the kit 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGURE 11A, the tabletop 110 may be a unitary piece, solid or hollow, that can be stored outside the container by securing the tabletop 110 to a side of the container 105.

FIGURE 11B shows the display unit 400 according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGURE 11B, the tabletop 110 may be a unitary piece.

FIGURE 12 shows the kit 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGURE 12, the container 105 may be an open frame container.

FIGURE 13 shows the display unit 400 according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGURE 13, the container 105 may be an open frame container.

FIGURE 14 shows the kit 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention. In FIGURE 14, the container 105 does not include elements such as doors, side openings, shelves, and shelf supports. Rather, the container 105 has a substantially smooth surface. FIGURE 15 shows the display unit 400 according to another embodiment of the present invention. In FIGURE 15, the container 105 does not include elements such as doors, side openings, shelves, and shelf supports.

For further clarity, the container may be any structure that is capable of retaining various elements within. In other words, the sides of the container may be open or partially open or may form a complete side surface as would be readily understood by the skilled artisan. As shown in FIGURE 16, the container may include an outside frame. As shown in FIGURE 17, the container may comprise an open frame with side panels and bottom panels attached thereon. As shown in FIGURE 18, the container may comprise an open frame with side panels attached thereon, such that the sides of the container are partially open.

FIGURE 19 shows a system 1600 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIGURE 19, the system 1600 comprises the display unit 400, and may further comprise a plurality of display units 400 A and 400B. Each display unit 400, 400A and 400B can connect to a network 1605, which may be used for communication between each display unit 400, 400A and 400B, and/or to other locations on the network, such as off-site consultants.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the system may comprise at least one other device 161 OA and 1610B. Each other device 1610A and 1610B may be a dedicated personal computer with suitable hardware and capability for communicating with the network 1605. Each other device 161 OA and 1610B may also be a smart phone, a tablet computer, or another display unit 400, as well as any other such device. Each other device 161 OA and 1610B may be connected to the network 1605 and may communicate with each display unit 400, 400A and 400B and each other device 1610A and 1610B by way of the network 1605.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, at least one other device may be a headquarters center 1615, wherein the headquarters center 1615 is connected to the network 1605 and may communicate with each display unit 400, 400A and 400B and each other device 1610A and 1610B by way of the network 1605. The headquarters center 1615 can send and receive plans, instructions, diagrams, messages, announcements, alerts, videos, and other electronic files known to the skilled artisan. The headquarters center 1615 can send and receive these electronic files to and from each display unit 400, 400A and 400B and each other device 1610A and 1610B by way of the network 1605. For example, the headquarters center may be a remote office location that is managing one or more construction sites and as such is in communication with each display unit to do so.

[0071] In another embodiment of the present invention, at least one other device may be a server 1625 which can connect to the network 1605 and store data. Each display unit 400, 400 A and 400B and each other device 1610A and 1610B can access data on the server 1625 through the network 1605.

[0072] In another embodiment of the present invention, the system 1600 may comprise a plurality of servers at the same site or at various remote locations for better data storage and back-up capabilities.

[0073] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, at least one display unit 400 or at least one other device 1610A may each include a server 1625.

[0074] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the server 1625 may be a third party cloud based storage system, such as Acronis™, AltDrive™, Backblaze™, BitCan™, Carbonite™, Dropbox™, Evernote™, Google Drive™, Livedrive™, SugarS ync™, Windows Live Mesh™, Zmanda Cloud Backup™, or any other third party cloud based storage system known to the skilled artisan.

[0075] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the display monitor of each display unit 400, 400A and 400B supports off-the-shelf software commonly known to the skilled artisan.

[0076] In a further embodiment of the present invention, each display monitor may be configured with current web conferencing software, such as but not limited to Adobe Connect™, PowWow365™, AccuConference™, AnyMeeting™, AVIDO Web Conference™, BabelTree™, Banckle Online Meeting™, BigBlueButton™, Blackboard Collaborate previously Wimba Classroom and Elluminate™, BuddyMeeting™, Cisco Unified Meeting Place™, Cisco WebEx™, Citrix GotoMeeting™, CUMeeting™, CourseHub™, Drum Web Meetings™, eLecta Live for Web Conferencing and Online Meetings™, eXo Platform with Chat Addon™, FaceMe Web Conference™, FastViewer™, Fuze Meeting™, Genesys Meeting Center™, Glance™, GlobalMeet™, GoMeetNow™, Groupworld™, IBM Sametime™, IBM Lotus Sametime Unyte™, ICU Live!™, iLinc™, iMeet™, Implix ClickMeeting™, Infinite Conferencing's Weblnterpoint™, inphra online™, InterCall Unified Meeting (IUM)™, LiveOn™, Lucid Meetings™, MegaMeeting.com™, Meetecho™, MeetingBurner™, Microsoft Live Meeting™, Microsoft Lync™, Mikogo™, Nefsis™, Netviewer™, omNovia Web Conference™, Omnijoin™, Openmeetings™,

PharmaCASTIPharMethod™, ReadyTalk™, RHUB™, SaasBoard™, Saba Meeting™, Saba Webinar™, Saba Classroom™, Saba Centra™, Skype™, Solgenia Weblive Facsys™, Spreed™, Smart™ Technolo gies, TeamHangout , Team Viewer™, Teleskill Live™, Teletaleem™, TrueConf™, Ubipitch™, VenueGen™, VeriShow™, VideoMost™, Veeting Rooms™, WebHuddle™, WebTrain™, WizIQ™, Yuuguu™, Zip Conferencing™, Zoho™, Zoom Video Communications™, and 4Webcom™. Each display monitor may also possess touch screen technology, or may be connected to a touchpad.

[0077] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the display unit 400 may communicate with another display unit 400A directly, without having to communicate through the network 1605, using a point-to-point connection, or any similar technology known in the art to the skilled artisan.

[0078] It should be noted that the term network 1605 should be interpreted to include any kind of telecommunications or computer-based network. The network 1605 may include the Internet, a dedicated local area network (LAN), a virtual private network (VPN), or any other data network that may be used to communicate and transfer data between devices. The network may also include a wireless PAN, a wireless LAN, a wireless mesh network, a wireless MAN, a wireless WAN, an optical network, or a cellular network. Each display unit 400, 400A and 400B and each other device 161 OA and 1610B includes suitable network connector technology for connecting to the network 1605. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the system 1600 may allow users of the display unit 400 to access the latest changes made at various architect and engineering offices; access 3rd party websites for additional information during meetings; print, scan, and photo capture onsite; interact remotely through a camera or microphone with 3rd parties thereby reducing the time and cost of site transportation; and control access level of information to 'need to know' parties.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the display unit may include a Global Positioning System (GPS) device (not shown).

A person understanding this invention may now conceive of alternative structures and embodiments or variations of the above, all of which are intended to fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims that follow.